In the following story, all of the characters are totally fictive and the setting is real. For whomever it would be illegal, immoral or prohibited for any other reason whatsoever to read a story about love between two young men is kindly requested to refrain from continuing. The free picture album inspiring this story (pdf) is available upon request at maringiustinian@gmail.com. Please remember to help Nifty stay online by sending your contributions. This being said, I hope you enjoy the tale.
(We all were seventeen at one time in our lives. Later on, be you nineteen or ninety-nine, remember that the teen you used to be is still alive somewhere deep down inside you -- and that he'll always love you, irregardless of what or who you've become.)
THAT CERTAIN GLOW
by Marin Giustinian
Tarbert, Isle of Harris, Scotland, June 2020
Day one
High school in Glasgow was over for William Hunter. He had finished S4 with excellent marks but because of the Covid, was deliberating whether to continue or stop.
He had two passions in life: music and sailing. He played with the idea of becoming a professional in one or the other, perhaps in both. He could probably do some further schooling, but...
He told himself that he was going to think about all that while on visit with his grandfather in Tarbert on the Isle of Harris, in the Outer Hebrides.
He had packed the night before so when he woke up at 5:30, he just swallowed a fast breakfast and waited outside for the taxi he had reserved. Outside the sun was already up, the weather already warm. June in Scotland can sometimes be absolutely beautiful -- sometimes...
The taxi arrived and drove him to Buchanan Bus Station. He had often made the trip and never found it boring. The Highlands and the Isle of Skye are spectacular, especially during the long hours of daylight in late June, and the hour and forty minutes crossing of the ferry at the end of the trip was the best!
There was a very special rapport between Will and his grandfather. Ever since his grandmother, Dorothy, had passed away Will went to see his 'Daddy Dun' as often as possible.
Will was Duncan McKenzie's only grandson. His only daughter, Marjorie, had given him two sweet granddaughters but when Will came along, Duncan's hopes were fulfilled.
Duncan had retired from his position of professor of Celtic Culture in the University of Glasgow, just after his wife died in 2015. He wanted to change lives. He sold their house in the suburbs and investigated the possibility of buying a home in the Western Islands. There he found what he was looking for. It was a two floor cottage overlooking the harbour and along with it he bought a small sailboat, thinking about his beloved William. The ground floor was big enough for him, alone, and the upstairs had three rooms and an ensuite bath for the family and friends visits he hoped for. However, it turned out that most of the time his only visitor was Will and the two other guest rooms upstairs stayed empty. Everybody said it was really too difficult to get there... That's also what Duncan liked about the island!
The bus arrived on time for him to jump on the ferry at Uig, on the Isle of Skye and arrive in Tarbert at three forty in the afternoon.
Getting off the ferry, he yanked off his mask and strode up to his grandfather's cottage. He knocked on the door. Julia Dean, Duncan's cook and housekeeper, opened and yelled, "Mr. McKenzie, William's back!"
She had just the time to hug the lanky lad when Duncan rushed into the entrance.
"Goodness, my boy! You've grown since Christmas, For a lad going on seventeen, don't you think it's time you stopped?" jested Will's excited grandfather as he rubbed the slight stubble on his grandson's chin.
"Daddy Dun, those are some of the things that just happen to us. I can't do anything about it!"
"Just teasing! But I must say, you are a really stunning lad for sure! Take your things upstairs. Make yourself at home. You know the house."
Will galloped upstairs, threw up the window, and collapsed on the big wide bed closing his eyes, persuading himself that he was where he was, ready to let life simply take care of him, come what may!
He quickly unpacked, washed his face and hands, and rushed back down.
"I swear you're looking better than ever, Will!"
"Thank you, Daddy Dun... How's Oberon?"
Oberon was the name of Duncan's little Beneteau sailboat. For the first two summers in Tarbert, Will enjoyed sailing her with Duncan. Afterwards, he enjoyed her (more or less) by himself.
"Fine! We can go down now and put her in the water."
"I was hoping so!"
On their way to the harbour, Duncan explained that the motor's been cleaned and tuned like new and the sails washed.
"Inside, I think you're going to have to freshen that up yourself..."
"No problem!"
Oberon looked like new on her trailer. Will scrambled aboard as Duncan talked with the harbour master..
In less than fifteen minutes, Will aired out the interior, checked the camping gas canister in the tiny galley space to starboard and the jerrycans with water under the small sink to port. The cushions were dry and only needed to be put in the sun for a while. The riggings were well adjusted, the rope locker full, and the anchors with their chains perfectly stashed. The starboard bunk was stuffed with the sails, and the port bunk housed the usual food chests. Will enjoyed taking care of Oberon. In fact, he enjoyed keeping everything tidy, in order and tamed. He despised confusion and disorder... whatever they be.
The launching only took a few minutes.
"Daddy Dun, do we still have the same berth in the marina for mooring?"
"Yes, we do. If you don't need me any more, I'm going to take care of the bill and go back to my book."
"I can handle everything, just like you taught me!"
"Carry on, my boy."
Will started the motor, and headed into the narrow bay. The weather was perfect. He rang up Duncan.
"Daddy Dun, I just wanted to tell you that I'm going to motor around some, just to take Oberon out for a little spin and enjoy the sun.
"Be back for drinks at seven and enjoy!"
Will headed out of the bay and dropped anchor in the secluded cove of a small island just only a mile or so away. He stripped and laid back absorbing the sun, enjoying the gentle rocking of Oberon and the sensual solitude of the moment.
Those moments of nude privacy were a delight for Will. His libido wasn't overactive, but as a healthy young man, his flesh had to exult, be it by exertion or simply by a good, hearty wank.
He lazily caressed his moist skin, circling his nipples. His cock began to swell under his fingertips. With his arms stretched over his head, the sun glistened in the moisture of his pits. A transparent drop of slick gleamed on the tip of his glans. As his breathing deepened and his erection throbbed, he took matters in hand, and faster than he had wanted, his belly was splattered with white, creamy semen.
Will sighed, then laughed all by himself, not because there was something funny, but simply because he felt absolutely wonderful just being alive.
Standing, he was tempted by the transparent water. He dipped himself and hurriedly climbed back onboard. Shivering in the sun he quickly warmed up, tingling with energy!
He licked the salt off his shoulder, ruffled his hair, and returned, as promised, to the berth, then to the house. He showered, and went down for drinks and dinner joining his grandfather in the parlour.
"How did your little outing go?"
"Great. I even took a skinny dip!"
"You probably no longer had a cock and any balls left when you climbed back out!"
"I was red all over, but things dropped back into place quite fast!" replied Will, winking at Duncan.
"You're ready to wear a kilt now, I suppose..."
"Almost! Listen, while you're working on your book, I'll be going back down to the jetty to work on my music some. That way I won't bother you..."
"Don't worry about bothering me. If you play your guitar upstairs, I'll barely hear it -- and in case you didn't know it, I'm proud of the only musician in the family."
"I'm happy you said that, Daddy Dun."
"Just one more thing, now that you're almost a grown man, I'd prefer you calling me Duncan. You can drop the Daddy Dun, if you don't mind."
Will beamed, feeling recognised as an adult by his grandfather.
"Okay, Duncan!"
"Now let's have a drink or two! Go and fetch the bottle of Mateus in the fridge, some peanuts and two glasses."
"Right away!"
Duncan told Will about the book he was working on. Then Will told his grandfather about the school with the arrival of the Covid. He talked about how much he missed his guitar lessons and weekends at the sailing camp with his mates on Loch Lomond. He added that he wanted to take a year off from school, but living at home full time would be a bit of a pain...
"But I'll survive. For the time being, all I need is some Daddy-Dun-time. I'm so glad to be here!"
Duncan looked into his grandson's deep blue eyes.
"And I'm really glad you're here, my dearest Will. Now let's go eat. Julia left us a succulent fish stew and rice.
After finishing their plates, Duncan asked, "How long do you plan to stay this time?"
"I really don't know yet," he replied.
Then after a thoughtful pause, he added, "I really need some time to settle on my plans for the future. I'm really upset now about the way big money is ruining life on earth, about the way politics have become toxic, about the way Scotland is having to put up with England's stupid Brexit, not to mention again the Covid and America's sick clown of a president,"
Will avoided his grandfather's eyes, looking out the window onto the waters. While he emptied his heart, he nervously played with the edge of his napkin.
"That's a lot to think about," softly stated Duncan, putting his hand on Will's.
Then he said, "Julia left us a dessert too. I think it's in the pantry."
"I'll go get it!" volunteered Will.
He came back with Julia's famous apple crumble and sat it down on the table. Will smiled as he filled his plate, crowning it with a mountain of chantilly cream.
Duncan chuckled. Things were already looking better...
Day two
Will came down for breakfast, still yawning, with only his bathrobe on. Julia greeted him, asking how many eggs he wanted.
As he ate, he chatted with Julia. He told her that this time, he could take care of his room and bathroom. She didn't need to take on the extra work.
"Very well, William, but give me your dirties every morning. I prefer running a small machine every day. I don't like ironing a big pile! And I want you to change your sheets and towels as much as needed. Do you understand me?" she said, tilting her head.
"No problem, Julia!"
"For your meals, do you have any favourites from the last time you were over?"
"Whatever you serve, Julia, is delicious to me!"
"Listen to the laddie flattering me... as usual! You're just a charmer, William Hunter! Welcome home!"
After indulging in a full breakfast, Will went back upstairs and took a long bath. He put on his cut-offs and sleeveless T-shirt. He felt like the prince of the island! He grabbed his guitar case, came back down, and gave his grandfather a big hug in the study.
"Duncan, the weather's perfect. I'm going down to the boat and work on my guitar a while."
"Work well! Be back for lunch!"
Walking down the pier, much to his surprise, the sound of a flute enchanted his ear. Somebody was sitting out on the end with his feet dangling over the water, playing a simple wooden recorder. As he came closer, he recognised the air, a piece by John Hackett, "Twilight Forest". The interpretation was so captivating that he just stood there listening. Nobody seemed to pay attention. When the music ceased, Will felt compelled to congratulate the flutist. He walked up next to the fellow and saw that he was about his age.
Seeing Will's feet beside him Timothy McCall glanced up and then smiled. His 'intruder' looked friendly -- and was carrying a guitar case.
"You did a great job with "Twilight Forest"... Do you mind if I sit?"
"Not at all... How do you know the tune?"
"I worked on the guitar score of that duet in the Junior Conservatoire in Glasgow."
"Do you study guitar at THE (he insisted on the 'THE') Royal Conservatoire?"
"I used to, but now... well, whatever... I've just finished S4 and am wondering if I'll go back to school or not. This year, with the Covid, it was tough, so I'm thinking about taking a year off to -- well, you know, make up my mind about things... And you? Where did you learn to play the flute?"
"I learned by myself, listening to music on You Tube. I finished S4 this year too. School's not my thing. Now that I have the right, I'll probably drop out and look for work in the distillery or whatever around here."
"I understand... By the way, I'm William Hunter. Will for friends. And you?"
"Timothy McCall... Tim... for friends! Are you're from Glasgow."
"Just outside Glasgow."
"Must be exciting," commented Tim.
"Not really -- not for me at least. I went to an ordinary school, lived in an ordinary suburban neighbourhood, in an ordinary house, on an ordinary street, in an ordinary family, with a very ordinary father doing an ordinary job -- in other words, normal. Excitement? Zero!"
"I see... dull in fact. And what are you doing here?"
"I'm on visit with my grandfather who's been living here going on five years now. I love the Isle of Harris and Tarbert! And you?"
"It's a nice little town, I guess. I'm actually from Stornoway. My Mum and I moved here two years ago. She works at the distillery."
Seeing Tim's lack of enthusiasm to talk about himself Will suggested, "Let's give Twilight Forest a try together. I'm sort of tired of solos."
Perking back up, Tim replied, "Sure... I'm flattered!"
Will took out his guitar and tuned it to Tim's flute. Then they smiled at each other, Tim took a deep breath, and they began. Their music blended but Will began accelerating.
"Hey man... slow down..."
They stopped.
"You're right. I get carried away when I'm happy! Sorry..."
"That's all right..."
"One more time?"
They began again and this time the miracle worked. They played in perfect sync, eyes locked, smiling as the music flowed on.
Several people had gathered. They applauded. Will turned around and nodded. Tim blushed.
"Tim, would you like us to play some more together? That was great!"
"Whenever you want, but we'll have to find a place a bit more private, don't you think?"
"Listen, we can go on my boat over there."
"Really? Which one?"
"The small white sailboat, moored just over there," replied Will pointing.
"I see... she's yours?"
"She's my grandfather's but I'm the only one who sails her now."
"Let's go!"
Once installed aboard, they tried out other traditional tunes, talked about life on Harris, etc. Time flew.
"Will, I've got to run now and finish my chores before Mum gets off for lunch."
"Sure... Do you want us to get together tomorrow? Are you free?" asked Will.
"For music, I'm free for the rest of my life," replied Tim with a heart-melting smile.
"We can look up some other scores on the internet."
"I don't use scores. I can't read music. I just play by ear. If you give me a tune, I can take it from there."
"Remarkable!"
Laughing, they punched their numbers into each other's phone, agreed to meet at 2:00 PM the next day.
"See you tomorrow, Will!"
"See you!"
At lunch, Will exclaimed, "Duncan, I found a great guy out on the end of the pier this morning... You won't believe it. He was playing a theme I knew on a simple flute, a wooden recorder, to be exact. I had worked on it in a duet at the Conservatoire!"
He went on explaining how he struck up conversation and how they played together, then how they played some more together on Oberon. He said that they were going to meet the following afternoon.
Duncan congratulated him and then said, "You're going to have to introduce me to this unknown prodigy. In case of bad weather you can always rehearse together upstairs. If you're really bad, I have ear plugs!"
"Bad? What do you mean by that?" quipped back Will, giggling.
"Just teasing some... You know I think you're a genius!"
The rest of the afternoon, Will was online with his laptop looking up scores. He chose a few and went down to print them out.
As he looked at the lines and notes on the paper, he thought about Tim's music. He marvelled at the emotion as well as the subtleness with which he played, having it only in his mind, his 'ear' as he said -- in his fingers and breath too.
Thinking about Tim made him feel warm, light... in other words, happy.
Growing up, he never had what one could call a 'best' friend. In fact most of his friends were girls. He never really fitted in with the other boys. He didn't play sports. He didn't feel the need to be in groups, nor be outstanding in any way. He enjoyed being by himself reading, going alone to the movies, to the theatre, and especially to concerts. His father was too busy to pay any attention to him anyway and his mother was simply relieved to have a well-behaved, normal son who hopefully would never be a problem.
And now, without expecting it, nor even hoping for it, he had a companion that echoed his passion for music, and also triggered something new deep inside, a glowing kind of feeling he couldn't define. It was nearly nothing -- but it changed everything.
He leaned out the window, sighed, and breathed in the fresh air. He just stood there, all by himself, at peace -- feeling a bit giddy.
He picked up his phone and texted: 'Found some good classical scores and a few folk ones too. Glad we met. See you tomorrow. Will'
A few minutes later, Will's phone dinged an incoming message: 'Glad we met too! Very glad ; ) !! Tim'
Will felt like dancing as he skipped down the stairs to join Duncan for happy-hour!
Day three
Will waited until after lunch to shower so he could make the best impression possible on Tim. He put on a fresh shirt and a splash of Hugo Boss. Little did he imagine that Tim was doing the same thing.
As he was leaving, Duncan asked, "Will, could you two come over and give me a happy-hour serenade when you've finished this afternoon?"
"I'll do my best!" exclaimed Will as he dashed out the door.
Arriving at the marina, Tim was waiting for him on the jetty.
"How's life, Tim?"
"Fine... and yours?"
"Great! I don't believe this spell of sunny weather!"
"It's rare, believe me!"
They made small talk going down the pier. When they stepped on the boat Tim took off his shirt. Will admired his slim body, the delicate glow of his skin. He followed lead and took his off too. Tim asked, "What does Oberon mean?"
"I don't know... We'll have to ask my grandfather... It must be something Gaelic... He was a professor of Celtic Culture in the University of Glasgow," Will replied with a touch of pride.
"Did you learn how to sail with your family? You know, your Mum and Dad, maybe big brother?"
"All I learned was with my grandfather. My father hates boats and my mother's seasick even on the ferry. I don't have a brother, only two older sisters. I'm the runt of the litter... and in fact, judging from the family I was born in, I'm sort of the only son of my grandfather. And you?"
"That's a complicated story... You're not going to believe it. My mother's a lesbian from Fayetteville, North Carolina. My ancestors were Scottish settlers way back then. When she was in college, she came over here for a summer trip with friends. She fell in love with a girl from Edinburgh. When she called her parents to tell them that she and Becky were in love and that she wanted to stay a few weeks more, they told her to stay for good. They didn't want that kind of women in their family. So she stayed. She and Becky opened a little hippy kind of shop in Stornoway selling stuff from India and all. Becky was killed in a motorcycle accident a few years ago, just one year after they were married. Mum sold the shop and got a job in the distillery down here and we moved. When people asked about my father, I just replied that my mother's a widow."
"But you must have a father somewhere, don't you?"
"Becky and my Mum wanted a baby. They used a sperm bank in Holland to have me. Last year with my Mum, we tried to look up who the donor was. We learned that HE had become a SHE. So I just gave up on him -- or her... There you have the whole story!"
"That's wild!" exclaimed Will.
"Well, those things happen... "
"I really appreciate you being so open with me, Tim."
"You are open with me, aren't you?"
Will mumbled, "I guess so..." then changing subjects he added, "Listen to what I found. It's mostly Italian baroque. I love baroque!"
"Bar rock? What's that?"
"Not bar rock, Bar-rhoke. Old music. Listen."
Will played an allegro theme by Vivaldi. Tim picked it up and they played, making variations, for ten minutes or more.
"That's crazy! If that's baroque, I love it too!"
After close to two hours, they decided to take a break, stand, and stretch some.
"The breeze feels good!" declared Tim, licking his plump lips, still tingling from the intense playing they had done. He sighed, scratched his crotch, and looked at Will, smiling.
Both felt drawn to each other. Tim had no problem showing it.
"I'm really happy here with you, Will!" he exclaimed, touching Will's cheek, lightly laughing.
"Me too, Tim!"
Then sitting back down, Tim sprawled his legs, tapped on the Oberon's hull, and quietly asked, "Will, do you think you could teach me how to sail this boat some?"
"Sure! Tell me, when do you have a day off? We could take a whole day, sail around some, anchor somewhere, play more music together, and all."
"What about tomorrow?"
Will immediately answered, "Great! I'll bring sandwiches and we'll leave... let's say at ten?"
"What do you want me to bring?"
"Something for dessert..."
"I'll find us something."
"There, that's settled!" then changing the subject, Will added, "Listen, my grandfather wants to meet you. He asked me if we could give him a little happy-hour serenade. The wine's fine and you'll see, he's a great man! We'll ask him what Oberon means, too. I'd really like for you to come along with me and do him the favour. He and I'd really appreciate it."
"What do you want us play for him?"
"Twilight Forest... and maybe Vivaldi..."
Tim hesitated, then looked at Will's pleading eyes.
"Let's go!"
Tim followed Will up to Duncan's house.
"So this is your grandfather's house," commented Tim as they opened the door.
"Why?"
"Just wondering."
Will tapped on the door of the study and peeped in.
"Duncan, Tim and I are here!"
"Come on in..."
Seeing Tim, Duncan exclaimed, "But I know you, young man!"
Will looked puzzled as Tim replied, "Yes, Sir. I did deliveries for a while at the Co-op, Sir. I brought you your wines."
"A very important job, bringing the wine! And now I hear that you're an accomplished flutist. My grandson spoke to me about you in very laudatory terms."
Tim blushed crimson red, shuffling on his feet, as Duncan spoke.
Indicating the door, Duncan said, "Let's go to the drawing room and enjoy some of the wine you brought!"
Will did the honours filling their glasses with a chilled sparkling Portuguese rosé. Duncan raised a toast to the beautiful summer and to their young, budding friendship.
Tim discovered the taste and tingle of Mateus as he relaxed a bit in the warmth of Duncan's irresistible smile. They talked about the boat and their music aboard, thanking Duncan again for letting them use Oberon.
"Sir, could you explain to us what Oberon means?" asked Tim.
"What? Don't tell me neither of you know who Oberon was?"
"Not really, Sir..." replied Tim.
Will simply shrugged uttering, "To be honest, Duncan, I don't either..."
Happy to become a professor again, Duncan stood and began explaining the legend of Oberon.
"Oberon is mostly known as the king or prince of the fairies in Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream. But we have traces of him dating from the beginning of the Celtic culture in Eastern Europe. For the first Celts, Oberon ruled over the Elementals. Elementals are the embodiment of the forces of nature, otherwise known as sprites, fairies, elves, and so on. The stories about him have it that Oberon was eternally young, strikingly beautiful, and at least in the ancient times, was always depicted with an erection... the intimate fountain of vital energy. Even if we refer to boats by saying 'she' instead of 'it' or even 'he', for me, our sailboat, Oberon, is masculine."
Duncan was lyrical when he spoke. The boys were hypnotised by his words.
"Our Oberon loves to penetrate the waves, wander from place to place, dance and move, pushed by the invisible passion of the wind and the tides. Now, mind you, we must never neglect the fact that the world of the Elementals is a wee, tiny world. That doesn't mean that it's weak because it's small. In nature sometimes the most powerful things are tiny: atoms, viruses, just to mention the most recent. But also, the smallest cells in the human body are spermatozoids. So there, let's conclude by saying that small is not only beautiful, but can also be terribly powerful!"
Duncan took another sip of wine. So did the boys, glancing at each other, waiting for the rest.
"So to be more precise in answering your question, dear Timothy, when I bought the boat, I named HIM Oberon for two reasons: First of all, the boat was elegant, swift, and, in my eyes, a bit savage under sail. The second reason was because I bought him for my one and only grandson, who at the time would soon discover the joys and troubles of manhood. Also, he was becoming the most beautiful lad I'd ever seen, often with a hard-on, like Oberon, hardly concealed in his shorts!" concluded Duncan, laughing.
It was Will's turn to blush as Tim patted him on the back.
"Thank you, Sir. You tell a good story! I definitely agree that your boat should be named after the Prince Oberon -- and that your grandson here is a very handsome person... even if he's no longer small at all!"
Embarassed, Will quickly spoke up, "Duncan, you said you wanted to hear some of our music."
"Very much so!"
Tim pulled the flute out of his shorts as Will took his guitar.
"This is the piece we played together yesterday, you know, the one I told you about... Twilight Forest."
They stood side by side, back turned to the bay window and tuned their instruments together. Then, nodding at each other, they struck the beginning notes.
Enraptured, Duncan sat back in his armchair, sipped his wine and listened, admiring the two young men, haloed by the late afternoon light, obviously lost in that special dimension called music. They played with infinite subtlety, soaring, note after note, to a perfect finale.
Duncan applauded as Will and Tim laughed, smiling at each other and then awkwardly bowed.
"Remarkable... absolutely remarkable! Not only is your music wonderful, but your presence together is an enchantment."
Will threw himself into his grandfather's open arms. Then standing, Duncan said, "Come here, Tim, let me give you a hug too!"
Tim melted in the gentleman's arms.
"Thank you, Sir. Thank you a lot!" then looking over at Will, Tim opened his arms as well and they hugged, their instruments still in hand.
"Excuse me now. I'm going to go heat up dinner! Are you staying with us, Tim?" inquired Duncan.
"My Mum's waiting for me to come and eat with her, Sir."
"Pity..." replied Duncan, shrugging, "Do you have further plans together?"
"Tim said he'd like to learn how to sail and I said we could take the day off tomorrow for me to teach him some, you know, just sailing around the nearby islands."
Duncan smiled and looked over at Tim, "So you want to learn how to sail..."
"Very much, Sir..."
"Well, you have an excellent instructor here with you! Have fun!"
As Tim was getting ready to leave, he whispered to Will, "Your grandfather's awesome -- and you're sort of special too! I've got to run now, otherwise, Mum's going to worry!"
Will walked with Tim to the door and stood watching him run down the street and then sighed. He suddenly felt empty.
That evening at the table, Duncan praised Will again for their performance. Will didn't talk about his confused feelings for Tim. He didn't need to. Duncan had seen that certain glow between them that said it all.
"If your Tim turns out to be a good mate aboard, I think it would be a good thing for you two to go on a little cruise together. There's nothing better than a few days on a boat to get to know each other. That way, both of you can tune in on one another and your music will become really a lot stronger."
"Great idea, Duncan! I'll talk to Tim about it tomorrow!"
That evening, in his room, Will was all excited about Duncan's idea of an escapade with Tim. They could make music and... and it would just be great... as long as the weather held out. He was tempted to call Tim, but decided to wait.
As for Tim, during dinner he talked on and on with his mother about his afternoon and his upcoming day on the water, learning how to sail. She listened, hardly recognising her son's enthusiasm.
"I'd like to meet this mate of yours. He sounds like a really special guy!"
"No problem."
"I'm happy for you, Tim, but be careful!"
"I'm happy too, Mum! Please just trust me..."
"I do trust you, but be careful anyway! Now calm down before your supper's completely cold!"
That evening, Tim sent Will a little message: 'Thinking about you : )) Tim'
Will immediately replied: 'Thinking about you too! <3'
Day four
Will got up early and enjoyed another full breakfast. He asked Julia to make a batch of sandwiches for him to take on the boat with a friend.
The wind was lively, and the breeze even a bit chilly. Will put on his black jeans and jacket, picked up the bag of sandwiches, and went to say good-bye to Duncan. He hurried down to the marina. Tim again was already there, dressed nearly the same way as Will. He even had a black stocking cap on his head.
"We're starting to look like twins!" laughed Tim as they hugged. As soon as they were in the boat, Will said, "Duncan thought it would be a good idea that we strike out aboard Oberon for a few days to, and I quote, 'tune up together', make music whenever we feel like it, and get to know each other better."
"I'm all for it... once you've taught me how to sail this thing!"
"I'll take care of that today! Let's get underway!"
Will showed Tim how to attach the sails, knot the halyards and sheets and run them back to the cockpit. Then he showed Tim how the motor worked.
With the outboard purring, Will sent Tim to the bow and had him cast off. They eased into the bay and once they were beyond the ferry landing, Will turned into the wind and told Tim to hoist the mainsail. Then Tim unrolled the jib. The sails rippled in the wind and then tightened as Will drew them in. Then Will pulled the tiller, swerving a bit downwind and cut off the motor.
With taut sails trimmed, Oberon heeled, picking up speed, splitting the wavelets, 'his' wake hissing behind.
Tim shouted to Will, "Man! that's magic!"
Will smiled back, simply nodding.
Tim seemed perfectly at ease. After a silent time absorbing what he was experiencing, he came over and sat slipping up close to Will.
"This is better than I thought!" stated Tim, tapping Will on the thigh.
"Here, let's change places. You take over!"
"WHAT?"
Climbing over Tim, Will replied, "I said you handle the rudder now!"
Tim was tense as he grasped the tiller. Will put his hand on Tim's and said, "Don't squeeze it... just hold it. Feel the vibrations. That way you'll know if Oberon is happy or not."
"Wow... I see what you mean... The tiller feels alive! That's really sexy!"
Will giggled, "I never thought about it being sexy, but now that you mention it..."
He stood, cupping the nice compact bulge his jeans as Tim added, "After all, Duncan did say that Oberon was a prince and not a princess, or maybe a bit of both!"
"Why not?" replied Will.
"Captain, am I doing well?"
"Aye, aye, matey! Steady as HE goes!"
Spirits where high. Will showed Tim how to tack upwind, unfurl the genoa and lower the jib, take a reef, etc. He named the different ropes, explained the different terms like 'port' and 'starboard'.
"Why don't you just say left and right?"
"Because right and left depends on where you are. What's to your right becomes to your left if you turn around, whereas port and starboard are parts of the boat, wherever you're standing."
"Makes sense..."
The wind began to weaken. They took off their jackets, readjusted the sails, and settled down to cruise a long stretch before heading over to Lowlandman's Bay. Will showed Tim how to tie a bowline, a capstan knot and a square knot.
"That's all you need to know to sail around the world..." stated Will.
"When do we leave?" jested Tim.
"We've already left, man!"
Tim looked into Will's eyes and uttered, "I really hope so..."
They unwrapped the sandwiches, ate, and then indulged in two big portions of apple pie. Time and space seemed to expand as they sailed on under the sun. Tim took off his shirt and asked Will to spread the sunscreen he had brought with him on his back. With his free hand, Will rubbed Tim's back, surprised to feel such soft skin under his hand.
"Thanks, Will. If you want, I can spread some on you too."
"With pleasure! That stuff smells extra good!"
Tim massaged Will's shoulders, then his back, spreading the slick lotion, rubbing it in.
"Now sit up straight and let me do your face and chest."
Leaning over Will, Tim's delicate fingers seem to remodel Will's forehead, cheeks, and neck. Then he knelt between Will's thighs and spread the lotion on his chest. The tiller seemed to vibrate a bit more in his hand...
"There! You're all greased up now! No sunburn today!" gleefully announced Tim, standing back.
"You're quite a handsome dude, Will!"
"Thank you. You're not that bad yourself!
Tim spun around doing a little dance.
"You really think so?"
"I really think so!"
They eased into a small bay in the lee of the wind. The tide was high. They chose to drop anchor near the narrow, sandy beach. The water was so clear that Oberon seemed to float in air, casting her shadow on the sand beneath. A warm gentle breeze, laden with scents of heather and grass, caressed their skin.
Tim fetched his flute and began to play. His vibrant song seemed to make the birds dance, circling overhead. Will strummed his guitar in time with the gentle lapping of the ripples against Oberon. Sitting, facing each other, their eyes locked.
Then suddenly Tim stood, stretching his arms over his head, and shouted, "Good God! I'm so glad to be alive! I need a hug!"
Will put his guitar aside, stood, and opened his arms. Melting in Will's embrace, Tim whispered, "Thank you for bringing me here. Thank you for being my friend! Thank you for everything!"
"Thank YOU, mate!" whispered Will, their foreheads touching.
Then Will furtively kissed Tim's lips. Tim grabbed Will's head and gave him a real kiss in return, pulling him close. They collapsed on the bench, rubbing backs, writhing, their tongues dancing together.
Then Will began to laugh.
"We're acting like two poofs! My cock's so hard it's going to rip through my jeans!"
"Mine is too and I don't care! And SO WHAT if we're poofs! Who cares? This is fun! And by the way, yours is the very BEST KISS I've ever had!"
"Really?"
"Yes, Really! And God knows I've made out with girls before."
"And lads?"
"You're number one! Congratulations!" teased Tim, giving Will's rock hard crotch a little squeeze.
Will topped Tim's hand, holding it an instant tight against his cock.
"Feel the vibrations, Tim?"
"Yes!"
"Squeeze some more, man, and let me congratulate you too! You're the first person that's ever held me there!"
Still squeezing, Tim replied, "I guess that makes us best friends then..."
"The very best, Tim!"
On their way back, Tim called his mother. They chatted for a moment, and then Tim said, "She says it's okay for me to go on a cruise, but wants to meet you and see Oberon first, if it's possible."
"What time can she come down to the marina tomorrow?"
Tim talked some more on his phone.
"She says she could be there at ten past five. Is that okay?"
"Sure, that'll be fine!"
Then Will pulled Tim over next to him, cuddling.
"Do we see each other tomorrow afternoon, make out some more and work on our music before your mother comes?"
"Of course!" quipped back Tim, giving Will's sunny cheek a quick little kiss.
For the rest of the way back, neither spoke as if they were still under the spell of what they had experienced. They secured Oberon in 'his' berth and simply hugged, grinding their crotches together. Then stepping back, both blushed, grinning like morons.
"That felt good, Tim."
"Yes, it did, Will, very, VERY good... Are you okay with us having made out like we did, Tim?"
"I loved it and I loved your good vibrations!" he laughed, groping Will's crotch.
Will gasped a little and squeezed Tim's bulge too, smiling in his eyes.
They both sighed and then hugged.
Tim uttered, "Well, I guess I'd better move on... See you tomorrow, Will."
"Sure enough, Tim. See you tomorrow at two..."
"And my best to your grandfather."
"No problem..."
Will watched Tim walk away, turn and wave, and then run.
Will tugged the front of his T-shirt to his nose and breathed in Tim's lingering scent. He was exhausted.
Duncan saw that Will was somewhat absent when he came in.
"How did it go with Tim?"
"Wonderful and weird... It went... went like a dream. He learned the ropes like he'd always been on a boat. He even felt the tidal currents between the islands. As for the music, we even ended up improvising both of us together, making our own music. I swear I knew -- no that's not right, I FELT in advance what Tim was going to play... It was uncanny."
"Did you decide to go on the little cruise we talked about?"
"Yes, we did... by the way, we're meeting up with Tim's mother at the marina tomorrow at five. Can you come down there too?"
"No problem. How would you like for us to open an old bottle of local whisky and let your 'uncanny' day settle in?"
"Whisky? That's another big first for me, Duncan."
"A Scotsman your age needs to learn his whisky!"
Day five
The vacuum cleaner in the hallway seemed to howl like a banshee, splitting Will's aching head. Fortunately, the weather was overcast, sparing him the glare of an aggressive sun as he leaned out of the window. He pulled a bit on his erection, yawned, and stumbled into the bathroom.
"So this must be a hangover," mumbled Will to himself as he turned on the shower.
He found Duncan finishing his breakfast in the kitchen. He and Julia were going over things. They greeted Will with nodding smiles.
"Good morning, Julia," he mumbled, hugging Duncan.
Duncan chuckled, saying, "See you at lunch, my boy."
Will sat, looking dumb. Julia, poured him a cup of strong black coffee. Will gave her a feeble smile and took a sip. Feeling a bit squeamish, he rose and said, "I'll be back for lunch. Now I'm going to go out and run. I need to air out my brain!"
"Excellent initiative, my foolish young man!" declared Julia, trying to look stern.
As he jogged and then ran along the coastal path, his mind overflowing with music and the tingle of their kisses. At the top of the hill, he stood panting as the sweat poured down from his brow. His stiff cock begged for attention in his shorts. Will looked around, went behind a friendly bolder and took matters in hand. Images of Tim stormed in his head. Once he found relief, he was totally elated and scared out of his wits at the same time!
Back at the house, Will took a long shower, shaved, and dressed. Finding his natural good mood at the lunch table, Duncan commented his ferocious appetite.
"Glad to see you're no longer a zombie!"
"Me too, Duncan! I'll be less careless with the whisky the next time."
"Lesson learned! Give Tim a hug for me. See you later at the marina!" said Duncan, rising from the table.
Tim and Will arrived at the same time on the jetty. Will explained that he had overdone it with Duncan's whisky, but now he was feeling fine. Tim laughed as they got into the boat.
"I guess you've got to learn sometime, man!"
"I guess you do... like a lot of things!"
"Yeah... like a lot of things," echoed Tim.
They disappeared into the cabin and made out for a moment.
"We're getting better, Will!" exclaimed Tim, "Now it's music time!"
Their improvisations were unbelievable though a bit disorganised. They hesitated between playing their own things, then playing with sheet music. Will really couldn't make up his mind.
At a quarter to five, they went up to the head of the pier and waited on the jetty. Duncan walked up. They chatted a minute then arrived Tim's mother.
She was in jeans and a faded blue tee shirt, her auburn hair tied up in a red bandana. Tim ran up to her and took her hand, beaming at Duncan, then at Will.
With his natural elegance, Duncan held out his hand, saying, "You must be this wonderful lad's charming mother. I'm Duncan McKenzie, William's grandfather."
She shook Duncan's hand with a firm grip, replying "Helen McCall," then turning to Will, she said, "and you must be Will -- the famous Will that Tim keeps on talking about."
"Yes, that's me, Mrs. McCall! Glad to meet you!"
"Helen. My name's Helen. You're even better looking than Tim's descriptions! One good point."
"Thank you, Helen..."
"And so it's thanks to you that my boy's becoming a sailor. I never imagined him going to sea, but I guess music can lead to anything!"
"Mum, you always exaggerate! Going to sea! Hold on there! We're just going to cruise around the island for a few days, that's all!"
Duncan spoke up.
"If you don't mind me saying so, Helen, I think music can lead not to just anything but to everything, and especially real happiness. At least your son has made my grandson one happy lad! It was my idea that they take a few days off sailing, to get better, as I said, tuned to each other. By the way, your son is a wizard with his flute."
"That I know! I just hope they'll get along sailing as well as they do playing music, according to what I've been told."
"Helen, after you inspect our boat, I'd like for you and the boys to stop by the house for drinks."
"I guess you want us to play something for you and Mum?" replied Tim.
"That's exactly what I was going to ask," and then turning to Helen, he asked, "What do you prefer, whisky or Mateus? I've got both."
"Give me Mateus, Duncan! It's my favourite any day!"
Helen took a look at Oberon, said that the boat looked safe enough, and walked with Duncan to the house chatting all the way. The boys followed a little behind, bumping shoulders as they laughed.
Once inside, Duncan told Will to show them into the parlour while he fetched the wine, peanuts and glasses.
Returning to the parlour, Duncan heard Helen saying, "Listen to me Tim, and you too, Will. Duncan was so kind as to reassure me that you'll be safe out there on the water, BUT... I want you to call EVERY evening! Is that clear?"
"Very clear, Mum!"
Putting the tray down on the table, Duncan interrupted, "Will, fill our glasses, I want to propose a toast."
They stood, watching Will do his job.
Raising their glasses, Duncan declared, "To the gods of the wind, of music, and of friendship!"
"I'll drink to that, Duncan!" added Helen as they toasted. Tim slightly blushed as Will looked straight into his eyes, giving their glasses a second light clink.
This was the first time, Will and Tim improvised their own music in front of others. Both Helen and Duncan were impressed. After a moment and another glass of wine, Helen said, "Duncan, if you want, I can whip us all up a big bowl of spaghetti and simmer a spicy meat sauce to top it off in our little cottage. It's not that big, but I think the four of us can fit in."
Tim applauded, Will vigoursly nodded, and Duncan said, "Will, go and fetch us a bottle of Chianti in the cellar!"
Day six
This was the big day!
After shopping for their groceries and filling up on petrol and water, they set sail, heading south. The warm breeze out of the West drove them along at a steady seven knots. Oberon was happy, as well as his crew.
They cruised down the eastern coast, rounded the point of Rodel, and zigzagged between the islands and islets in the currents of the rising tide. It was close to four when they anchored off the Isle of Pabbay just west of Berneray in the depths where they would still be afloat at low tide.
No one was anchored nearby. The island was uninhabited. The world belonged to them and to them alone.
The inviting water glittered in the afternoon sun. Tim was leaning overboard when he said he wanted to take a dip.
"Come on with me, Will! Let's swim over to the beach!"
They both stripped for the first time together, laughed and jumped in. The water was chilly, but not that cold. They raced, swimming over to the beach. They waded ashore, laughing, turned and looked back at Oberon.
"It's funny how much I feel at home on that boat, Will!"
"And it's even funnier how much I feel great with you on that boat!"
"I want another hug!" declared Tim, shivering as he wiped the water dripping off his nose.
They held each other tight, cock to cock, Will's lips enjoying a salty kiss in the nape of Tim's neck.
"Mmmm! I like that!" wiggled Tim.
And then the plague of Scotland, the tiny stinging gnats, those damned flies called 'midges' swarmed attacking their soft, naked skin .
"OH SHIT!" Tim screamed as they both immediately dove into the water, splashing like mad.
Back aboard, they towelled off but didn't bother to dress. Tim called his mother. They opened a bottle of burgundy and nibbled on a bowl of peanuts, sprawled in the cockpit.
Will propped his head against Tim's and whispered, "Can I ask you something really personal?"
"No problem, Will... What do you want to know?"
"You said you've kissed a lot of girls..."
"Not lots, but a few..."
"Well, could you tell me about your sex life?"
"There's not much to say... Do you count wanking?"
"Wanking doesn't count."
Tim chuckled a little and rubbed Will's thigh.
"My sex life started and ended a year ago. You're gonna laugh. Our class was on a trip to Skye. We were put up in a kind of youth hostel in Portree. There was this girl, Melody. She had the hots for me. We had made out some. It was fun. A bit wet, but fun. Up from the hostel, there was a kind of garden, a park with bushes and all. We went out for a walk. It was already nightfall. As I said, we had already made out a lot, but this time she wanted me to fuck her. We went behind a big bush. It was really dark. She shoved her hand into my pants and grabbed my dick. Of course I was hard, as usual, you know, making out. She started jacking me, moaning, sticking her tongue in my ear. Then she laid down in the grass and unbuttoned her pants, rubbing her gash. I'd looked at porn and saw how it's done, so I said to myself, let's give it a try! I pulled down my pants, grabbed my dick and laid down on her, poking around looking for her hole. Then she began sobbing and writhing, rolling from side to side. I felt really odd there with my cock drooling and she carrying on like that, weeping and shaking her head back and forth, whimpering "No, no, no..." That's NOT how it was supposed to happen according to porn! So I stood back up, all mixed up. My cock went limp, hanging down soft and stupid like. She scrambled up, slapped me across the face and ran off. I told myself that girls are crazy and gave up on sex -- at least until the next wank -- but wanks don't count, so we said! Ha!"
"That's tough! I'm sure you were... I can't find my words... angry, perhaps..."
"Angry, not even disappointed! Just a bit vexed, you know, with my pride sort of crippled -- but a hell of a lot wiser. That kind of fucking wasn't good for me... That's all -- And you, Will? What about your sex life?"
"What sex life? In fact, I have nothing to say because nothing has happened. I haven't tried for it to happen either... Don't you remember, I congratulated you the other day for being the first to have touched my cock other than myself. I've never had sex with anybody in my life. I'm a shameful virgin, Tim! Sure, I wanked looking at straight porn. The sight of tits, cum-splashed faces and slimy dicks just made me feel sick. I tried gay porn... It was either filthier or simply boring. After that, I couldn't even wank for a month. My favourite sex thing, even it doesn't count, is to wank in nature. I sort of make love to nature. I love to come out on Oberon and wank under the sun like I did just before we met. I even like wanking under the woods, or under the falling snow! I also love to wank in the bath while I suck my thumb or put a finger up my arse. But to be honest, I've never come across a person who turned me on, male or female, until..."
Suddenly Will stopped. He shuddered looking at Tim, and tried to say something, but nothing came out.
"Until?"
Then Will dared, "Until I met you!"
Tim squeezed Will's knee.
"Listen to me, Tim... Ever since we met, you've been on my mind and when we kissed, I felt like I was falling off a cliff, or being sucked into a whirlpool. Even when we play music together, I feel you so strongly it hurts and it's absolutely wonderful... To make things clear, you really turn me on, make me churn inside! Look, I'm hard right now!"
Tim pulled Will's hand over on his own erection and throbbing a little, he uttered, "You turn me on too, Will... Let's do it"
"But I don't know how..."
"I don't either... so let's find out together..."
They jumped up and grabbed each other again, their very erect cocks drooling on each other's thighs, humping in unison. Their rampant mouths kissed and devoured ear lobes, mouths, pits and tits. Humming as their flesh melded, sighing, giggling, squeezing and releasing, they crawled up on the deck before the mast.
There, Tim made his way to Will's cock, licking it, sucking it, jacking it. Will surrendered, laying back, his mouth agape, his pelvis slightly moving to and fro. Bathing in the slick of Tim's humming mouth, his cock was aflame. Tim was devouring Will's fire. Relentless, he was driven by some kind of compelling thirst. He needed Will's boiling semen. He craved it.
Will began to tremble as Tim clawed his arse. Then as if driven by instinct, Will spun around and sucked in Tim's cock as well. Totally entwined, squirming, they both bobbed, trying to swallow each other, fondling balls, kneading buttocks, fingering moist holes. Their spiralling energy became a whirlpool, a tornado pulling them, draining them, spinning them into lightning.
Suddenly, Will's body tensed stone hard. He spewed bolts of semen into Tim's throat. Tim quivered and thrusted. His own cum surging into Will's gulping mouth.
Then nothing! Oblivion... They just laid there, entangled together, panting, their fingers playing in the sweaty furrows of each other's flesh. It was silent, sacred moment of total communion, melding their souls, changing them forever.
Tim wiggled around and whispered into Will's ear, "Now I know what's good for me. It's you!" and he jumped overboard.
Will jumped in with him. They played like dolphins, sliding and slipping, frolicking together. Then, out of breath, they climbed back aboard, sprawled out in the cockpit entangled, drying in the sun.
Caressing Tim's hair, Will calmly asked, "What do you expect out of life?"
Tim snuggled up to Will, slid his knees in between Will's thighs, and sighed.
"Wow! That's a heavy question... Let me think."
"Take your time."
"What do I expect out of life? Nothing... I just want a life of freedom and let life take care of me. No complications, no stupid bullshit about the wrath of God, or the virtues of obedience. Mum survived when all hell broke loose. I know I can too... as long as I stay true to myself."
Tim caressed Will's cheek and continued, "Thanks to you, Will, I know where my truth is now. My truth is you. Before I found you, I had to guide myself alone, love myself on my own, believe in myself, defend my mothers, and become my own dream father, my own prince, and princess too, waiting for you to come along! I didn't just hope for you. I expected you. It took me a little time to recognise you, but now I see you, hold you, love you, drink you. And that's all. A guy needs another guy in his life, be it his father, brother, cousin, best friend, whatever. I had nobody! But now..."
"Now you have me," whispered Will.
"Now I have you and you have me too!"
"And we both have Duncan too."
"I've already felt that that he likes me, that he likes us too."
There was a moment of silence.
Tim concluded, "Our lives are like our music. All depends on how we play it -- how we play it from now on. What do you want in life, Will?"
"I want a simple life, far from the ordinary strife of what we're led to follow. All I want is what we have, here, now, together. I want to go on creating beauty, like we've just created with our lovemaking, and to make music out of our love! That's what I want in life, my life with you -- for as long as I can imagine!"
"You said the big word, didn't you? You said LOVE."
"Yes, I did. I said LOVE!"
"William Hunter, I love you and I'm hungry! Let's eat and drink and see what the night has in store for us!
They pulled on their shorts and shirts, heated their canned stew on the camping gas gimble, and enjoyed some wine. The chill of the evening made the warmth inside feel really good.
They devoured a simple dinner and finished the bottle. Then Will took the dishes out to wash in the cockpit as Tim prepared the sleeping bags, zipping them together. When Will came back in, Tim was again nude, sitting cross-legged in the candlelight, tailorwise, in the wide cuddy berth in the bow.
"You're beautiful, Tim!" stated Will.
"Will, I want you to fuck me."
"What?"
"I said, I want you to fuck me!"
"Are you sure?"
"Of course I'm sure since I asked you to fuck me!"
"But aren't you afraid it hurts..."
"I don't care!"
Will then nervously asked, "Where's your sun lotion?"
Will didn't fuck Tim. He made long, deep, heartfelt love to him. He lost himself in Tim, sliding in and out of him, pushing in to meet Tim pushing back to him at the same time. The grace of their lovemaking lasted as if accompanied by all the gods of lust and youth combined. Tim cooed, whimpering his ravishment. Will discovered an unknown dimension of himself deep inside Tim's flesh. His orgasm slowly began to rumble, working its way up to the inevitable eruption.
The swell of the waves offshore entered the cove arriving with the return of the tide. The sound of the water lapping blended with the rhythm of their flesh pounding together. Their rhythm hastened to the boiling point of frenzy and Will screamed, spewing his liquid soul into Tim's writhing body, clamped in the hold of his legs. Triggered by Will's orgasm, Tim's cock exploded as well. He grunted, growing, clawing Will's back, stifling him with feverish kisses.
Will collapsed on Tim, spent, lost in his bliss. Their sweaty chests, covered with Tim's abundant cum, heaved as they caught their breath. Will lifted his head and gazed into Tim's eyes. They both smiled like children marvelling at a silent sky following an orgy of fireworks.
Day eight
A stream of dawn-light flowed through the small overhead hatch. Will woke up enlaced in Tim's embrace, their erect cocks still snuggling together. He gazed at the gleam in Tim's honey brown curls, inhaled the scent of his silky skin. Then he closed his eyes again, surrendering to the miracle of being where he was, with whom he was, just then, only one week after escaping from the gloom of Glasgow.
Will took a deep breath and opened his eyes again only to see Tim smiling back at him. They kissed, gently pushing their cocks together, and uttered at the very same time, "Good morning, love!"
Tim giggled as he tickled Will in the ribs, making him howl and squirm, yelling, "Stop or I'll pee all over you! Let go!"
They both scrambled out of the cabin and pissed into the chill of the morning sun. Back inside, they cuddled again in the warmth of the berth. Will whispered, "I want you to fuck me too."
Wiggling out from under Will, Tim grabbed the sun lotion, and began to massage his lover's quivering sphincter, playing with it, prodding it gently. Will hummed, "Good God! That feels TOO good... don't stop..."
Will winced as Tim's slim cock entered him. Then he revelled, moaned, whimpering his ecstasy, lost in Tim's lusty assaults. They found their rhythm, taking their time, riding the waves of their converging souls. Then they began to soar, this time higher and higher until they were both swept away in the cosmic blast of their fusing souls.
After that delicious moment of nothingness, Will's stomach growled.
"Don't move! I want to brew us some lovers' coffee, and then we can make breakfast."
"With scones, jam, orange juice, and a load of kisses too!"
Later that morning, after bathing each other, Tim remarked, "Will, couldn't we try to make music like we make love. We could inspire ourselves improvising along the same pattern... taking it easy to start with, then building the theme until... until... well you see what I mean."
"Great idea... I'm sure Ravel had that in mind when he composed his Bolero."
"Ravel who?"
"Ravel, Maurice Ravel... Listen!"
Will sang the famous, boom, biddity boom, biddity boom!
After a moment, Tim shouted out, "Of course I know the tune. You're right. That piece is sex, sex, sex, but I think we can do better..."
"Are you in the mood to try?"
"Will, I'm always in the mood for sex and music!"
The result was fabulous!
"Sex is music... and music is sex! Both are love!" exclaimed Tim, as if he had discovered a new galaxy.
"We'll have to try everything, Tim! No holds barred!"
"Wow!"
Day nine
As they made music and love, they realised that it wasn't so much the pattern of sex that gave their music its specific beauty. It was the energy field that both their duets and lovemaking generated.
"Do you think the standing stones that are everywhere in Scotland are related to penises?" dreamily asked Tim as he touched Will's cock slit, drawing up a silky strand of slick, gleaming in the sun on his fingertip.
"Could be... We'll have to ask Duncan," replied Will.
"Are you going to tell him about us?"
"Yes, I think we have nothing to hide. And you? Are you going to tell Helen?"
"It's already done."
"Already? And what did she say?"
"She said she was glad for me and told me to pay attention to keep you happy."
"She's a saint!"
"She's no saint! She's simply homosexual, like you and me, and she likes you, Will. Nothing complicated about that, is there?"
"I've still got to get used to a lot of things, Tim. Be patient, please."
"No problem, man! I love you, and trust you. That's all I've got to say. Do you think we can live together?"
"I want to live with you, Tim, whatever happens."
"Then we'll do it."
Day ten
The following morning, the wind was gusty and strong, coming in from the Northwest, and the sky was cloudy. They had little food and water left, enough for one day. So they decided it was time to return. They had a lot to say, a lot to settle, and a lot to do working on the scores of things that their love needed. They indulged in a hearty breakfast before facing the weather.
"If this westerly holds out, maybe we can be back by nine tonight."
Tim texted his mother: 'We're coming back. I'm going to sleep over with Will. See you tomorrow. I love you!'
Will called Duncan announcing their return.
"I don't know what time we'll tie up. Depends on how the weather holds. In case we're late, don't wait up. Tim's sleeping in with me."
"Take your time, boys!" replied Duncan.
"We've a lot to tell you!"
"I'm sure you do!" chuckled Duncan, with a knowing smile on his face.
As the day went on the wind dwindled, leaving behind a heavy, low sky. They slowly advanced, eating cake, cheese, and bread, drinking hot tea, mug after mug. At half past ten that night, they furled the sails, and motored into the marina. Carrying their belongings, they trudged back up to the house.
"My legs are all wobbly!" exclaimed Tim once back on land.
"That happens after a long time on the water."
Tim couldn't stop giggling as he wobbled along, clinging on to Will.
The light in the stairs was on. Once upstairs, they took a long hot shower together and climbed in bed.
"Clean sheets, clean skin, and a big soft bed, pure luxury!" exclaimed Tim snuggling up to Will, then he added, "are you very, very tired?"
"Not that much... Did you bring your sun lotion?"
"Of course!"
Day eleven
It was nearly ten o'clock when they woke up, pulled on their pants and T-shirts and came down, yawning, with messy hair, all starry-eyed.
"You boys look might happy there!" exclaimed Julia.
Duncan came into the kitchen.
Will stood and hugged his grandfather, saying, "Good morning, Duncan. You see, we're back all safe and sound."
Tim followed.
"Good morning, Sir."
"Good morning, Tim. Have a seat and enjoy your breakfast, boys. I'll be waiting for you in my study. I'm eager to hear how it went!"
"We'll be back down as soon as we've eaten and made ourselves decent again!" replied Will, smiling as Julia put their plates of eggs and sausage on the table.
Taking a deep breath, Will declared, "First of all, Duncan... Tim and I are in love."
"Congratulations. So how did the sailing go?"
"Is that all you have to say about us being in love? We're homosexual, gay, queer..."
"Do you think that shocks me? Don't underestimate me, Will. I'm glad you've found love, and when I see you two together, I know it's for real. I suppose you're going to want to live together..."
"Yes"
"Then the upstairs is yours. Now, tell me, how did the sailing go?"
Tim took over.
"It went great, Sir! We sail Oberon together like we make music and..."
"And make love?"
"Yes, Sir, like we make love," Tim replied, smiling at Will.
"Then boys, Oberon is yours."
"You mean you give him to us?" exclaimed Will.
"Things should belong to those who love them the most!"
Tim and Will jumped up and hugged, then they threw themselves on Duncan.
"Easy there, boys! I'm no longer fit for rough loving! Now sit back down. We've a few details to work on."
They sat.
"Now to begin with, do your parents know that you're in love with each other?"
Tim replied briefly informing Duncan about his mother, her past, the circumstances of his conception and her reaction to them finding each other.
"She's a powerful woman! You're a lucky boy. And you, Will?"
"Not yet... I'm going to skype them this evening. I don't know how they'll react. To be honest, I don't know my father... All I want, for the moment, is for Tim and me to go for a visit in Glasgow so that he and the family can meet. I'm sure they want me to be happy!"
Duncan listened and then replied, "We'll see... You said 'for a visit' in Glasgow. Am I correct?"
"Yes, we don't want to live elsewhere than here, next to you and Helen."
"And finish school?"
"No school. We want to become professional musicians with our own music. No need for more school to do that."
"Do you agree, Tim?"
"I'd already made up my mind to drop school before we met," he said taking Will's hand in his.
Duncan replied that he could invest into equipping the upstairs as a separate flat for them if they wanted. As for the rest, he admitted he didn't know a thing about professional music. They went over a few more items and then Duncan concluded, "Tim call your mother and pass me the phone.
"Hello Helen, Duncan speaking. I've got our two love birds here in front of me. I think we need to talk... and celebrate! Can you come over for drinks and dinner tonight?"
Duncan listened and then said, "Wonderful! See you then."
"Boys, we're going to have a party!"
Learning that Tim was going to be in the house with Will, Julia welcomed him, giving him the house rules and a big hug. She prepared a dinner for four and baked a cake.
That evening Helen showed up with a bottle of champagne. She and Duncan seemed to have a lot to talk about. Just before drinks, Will said, "Now that Dad should be back from work, I'm going up with Tim, call home, and have them go on skype for a visit to share the news.
Twenty minutes later, they came back down. Will's eyes were red. Tim was holding him close. Duncan and Helen immediately saw that things went wrong.
"Tell us what happened, Will," said Helen.
Tears swelled again in his eyes as he and Tim fell down on the sofa. Tim held Will's hand. His young face expressed the hurt they had both endured.
"My father got angry. Mother tried to calm him but there was nothing to be done. Thank God my sisters no longer live in that house."
As he stuttered, anger growled inside.
"I tried to explain. He just said he didn't want a pervert in the house. He told me to never come back. But that's not all. He said I was Duncan's son anyway. He claimed I was not wanted. I was an accident that he regretted. I started crying. He yelled at me saying I was just a slobbery wimp anyway, that I could stay with my cocksucking fuck buddy sitting next to me, looking like a moron. He insulted you too, Duncan, saying that Celtic stuff was a waste of money for the University and that you had your head in the clouds anyway. I was dumbfounded. He saw it and seemed to be happy to have hurt me. Mummy had a devastated look on her face, standing behind him, saying nothing. Then he said he'd have my stuff, winter clothes and all, shipped here. He said that I was no longer welcome in HIS house. Then he shut off his computer and I collapsed, weeping in Tim's arms. Then my phone rang. It was Mummy. She said she'd try to calm my father down, that she would send me money, and that she was really sorry... I thanked her. Tim took me to the bathroom and washed my face. And that's it... God damn it!"
Helen looked over at Duncan. He nodded. She then spoke to Will.
"Give them time," she said softly.
"Did you give your parents time?"
"I know that Tim told you about me. Yes, I gave them all the time they needed. They just didn't take it. That's all. But YOU, if YOU don't FORGIVE them for their fears, their ignorance, and lack of humanity, of courage and of love, it will ruin your life, and my son's too. Probably your father's reaction is the result of his upbringing in a sick, religious society. It's not really his fault if you think about it. The evil is deeper than that. I know it'll take time to forgive him, but your real family's here, in this room. Duncan has already forgiven his daughter, I'm sure, for having married a boring, upset righteous bastard, but it was her life and not Duncan's. You are bitter now, Will, but you are loved. Tim loves you. I love you. This wonderful gentleman here loves you more than life itself and is hurting too. So stand up and give him a grateful-grandson's-hug. He needs it as much as you do."
Will looked up at Helen, then at Duncan. Tim pushed him as he stood. Duncan held out his arms. Will rushed over and fell in his lap, burying his face in Duncan's shoulder like a wounded child.
"Mum, you're great!" uttered Tim as he sided up to her.
"Is it only now that you've finally noticed my greatness! Pop that champagne cork and fill our glasses. Duncan, Will, Tim, it's time to party!"
July and early August, they worked with Duncan remodelling the upstairs. They installed a kitchenette, painted everything white, ripped out the old carpeting and waxed the hardwood floors.
September and the beginning of October, they spent hours, recording improvisations along the beach, in the hills, during a storm... They edited the best of their work on their new Mac, furnished by Duncan, and put together their first CD. They even created the jacket. Will had made a beautiful photo of a wave crashing on the rocks. Tim said it looked like a massive ejaculation!
Helen and her friends organised a Pride Concert for them in Stornoway. They made a big hit and were invited to return. After the concert, she insisted that her boss and director of the distillery, Joseph Peters, meet them. He was very impressed over their music and above all their looks.
"Boys, I'm going to put a very expensive new whisky on the market soon and I would like for you to sell me rights to your CD. I want to include it in the price of the bottle, giving my better clients the impression of a gift. Also, I want to use your image in the advertising, you know, the usual stuff, a full page picture of you two in an island setting with windblown hair, dressed in a kilt, just looking as beautiful as you are anyway. I'll have it published in the better magazines worldwide. Maybe we'll do a video also. We've got to talk about all that. If you accept, I'll call in my communications team, have you vamped over and... and you get the picture. Name your price, and I'll take it from there," proposed Joseph, pacing around his desk.
Tim calmly replied, "We think it's a good offer. For the rights, we want £10,000 plus 5% on each bottle sold with our CD. As for our image... well, that's free, for the time being. How's that?"
"You drive a hard deal! Let's say £8,000 and 2%."
"Okay, we're young... It's £9,000 and 3% or no deal."
"Is that your last word?"
"Do you want us or not?"
"I want you!"
Will just sat there, stunned at the way Tim, usually a bit shy, reacted to the offer. Then he stood, held out his hand, and said, beaming, "It's a pleasure doing business with you, Sir."
"Maybe it's just a start, young man..."
Duncan, as well as Helen, were elated at the news, giving them another reason to celebrate!
The Covid came back, this time hitting the mainland even harder than before. However, their island life wasn't drastically affected. They simply carried on their mission, creating music, deepening their lovemaking, trusting life!
At any rate, there's talk about a vaccine being ready for next year.
Time's on their side, and to be honest, only time will tell...
The free picture album inspiring this story (pdf) is available upon request at maringiustinian@gmail.com.