Luke said, "Come here, you doofus." He wrapped his arms around Jon and Jon put his arms around Luke's neck. That's when the floodgates opened and Jon shed tears of joy and relief.

The Inn - Chapter 5

They remained in an embrace for some time. Finally Jon said, "I don't know about you, but I gotta take a leak."

Luke chuckled. "I'm too comfortable like this. Stay the way you are."

"Well, it's your couch."

"Point taken."

When Jon returned he sat on the opposite end of the couch and looked at Luke. "Well?" he asked.

"Well, what?"

"Come on. I've bared my soul to you, risked my friendship with you, and practically puked my guts out worrying about you. I think I deserve an explanation."

"Yeah, you do." Luke said. "I've wanted to tell you how I feel for a long time. But I couldn't. It's just that I've never been able to admit I'm gay. Even though I lived in a gay neighborhood and have a lot of gay friends, I just couldn't make that leap. My fucking parents are rabid homophobes and it gets into your soul, being told all that crap. I know better now, but you can't just forget that stuff. Believe it or not, I've never really had sex with a guy. Here I am, 30 years old, and I've never had a meaningful relationship because I was always too afraid of it."

"But what about when you lived in the city? It sounds like you were a party animal. And I know damn well you musta had to fight the guys off with a stick."

"Well, yeah, it was kinda like that. But I always managed to wind up alone at home. I kinda got a reputation as a 'prick tease,' but I wasn't consciously doing that. It was just I wasn't comfortable having sex with guys. Or girls, for that matter. Sometimes I'd let a guy blow me, but that was about it. I guess I was pretty much asexual during that time."

"What about Molly?"

"She was okay, and I think maybe she loved me. Or thought she did. I felt sorry for her. She did have her good points. But I didn't really like her that much. She was the one that wanted a relationship, she more or less pushed herself on me."

"Did you have sex with her?"

"Sure, but not as often as she wanted to. I had to force myself. It wasn't easy. Or fun."

"And what about now?" asked Jon.

Luke paused, then looked at Jon. "I remember the first time I saw you, Jon."

"Me too."

"No, not when you smiled at me at the bar. I remember that. I saw you a couple of days before then. I stopped at The Inn after my closing. I don't think you saw me, but I remember seeing you. I thought, 'That's the kind of guy I could get into.'"

Jon smiled. "And you didn't pursue me?"

"No, I could never have done that. But I did hope I'd see you again. Then we got to know each other, and I loved getting to know you. But I still had my paranoia. I just couldn't express myself. I've been denying my feelings for so long I don't know how to deal with them. But I think I'm beginning to."

Jon's mind was reeling. Here the guy he'd been fantasizing about, obsessing and agonizing over for the past year, was telling him what he'd yearned to hear.

"Luke, can we go into the bedroom? I just want to be with you."

Without another word, they walked hand-in-hand to the bedroom. Luke pulled down the covers and they crawled underneath. Jon spooned with Luke, but he felt Luke's discomfort.

Jon spoke softly. "It's okay, we don't have to do anything. I just want to hold you. Is that okay?"

"Yeah, it's more than okay. I want to hold you, too."

The two men eventually lapsed into a light sleep, secure in each other's arms.

After about an hour Jon rejoined the living. He opened his eyes and stared at the back of Luke's head. He had been almost afraid to wake up, afraid that his memories of the past few hours would turn out to have been a dream. But no, here he was, in Luke's bed, with Luke in his arms. Jon couldn't remember the last time he'd felt this content, this happy. He could hardly contain himself.

Jon whispered, "You awake?"

"Uh huh."

Jon gave him a gentle squeeze and rolled him onto his back. They both smiled and Jon leaned forward and pressed his lips to Luke's. They explored each other's mouths for several long moments before Jon sat up.

"You can't imagine how long I've waited, how many times I've dreamed of this moment."

Luke smiled and said, "Even though all we did was nap together, I loved having you hold me. I was a little nervous at first, I admit. I told you I'm practically a virgin. But with you, it just seems right. I can feel it."

"I can feel it, too." They kissed again and then went back into the living room.

Luke sat on the couch and patted his thigh. Jon sat near him, then leaned over and rested his head on Luke's lap, looking up at him. Luke stroked Jon's head. The feeling of Jon's hair reminded Luke of a teddy bear's nose.

"Jon?"

"Hmm?"

"I...I don't know how to say this. I just don't want to fuck things up. With us, I mean."

"How?"

"Well, I'm not exactly the most savvy guy when it comes to sex. It's not that I'd be shocked or grossed-out by anything. I wouldn't. God knows I've seen everything, living in Boystown. But I don't have much first-hand experience. And I have a lot of hangups. You can't just flip a switch and get over that crap. I guess what I'm trying to say is, you're the first guy I feel I can be totally honest with, and comfortable with, but it's gonna take some time. Am I making any sense?"

Jon looked up at Luke. He still felt like pinching himself to be sure he was awake.

"Yes, you are. Don't worry about your inexperience, it makes you even more intriguing to me. We don't have to rush into things, we'll just take it one step at a time. I've waited a year for this day, and I'll wait another ten years if I have to. It's worth it. You're worth it. I'm a very patient person. I won't push you, but you have to promise me one thing."

"What?"

"If I ever say or do anything that makes you the least bit uncomfortable, you gotta tell me. Right away. If I ever caused you pain, emotional or otherwise, I couldn't live with myself."

"Deal. You know, there's one thing I regret."

"What's that?"

"That it took this long for us to be honest with each other. We wasted a whole year."

Jon thought about that. "I wouldn't say 'wasted.' We had fun, we became good friends. It's kinda like we were dating without knowing it. You know, getting to know each other. I'll admit, it was frustrating and even painful at times, but I think it worked out for the best."

Luke smiled. "I guess you're right. Does this mean we're officially 'boyfriends'?"

"At the risk of sounding sophomoric, God, I hope so!"

"Now we have another problem."

Jon frowned. "What's that?"

"Should we tell everyone? Make an announcement or something?"

"Nah, I don't think we need to. Let's just play it by ear. They'll figure it out."

The two sat together for another hour, chatting about nothing in particular, enjoying one another's company. Luke was surprised at how comfortable and natural it felt. Until now, he'd never allowed himself to open up to another man. But this felt right. It was like his life to this point had been missing something, and now he was complete. An intangible void had been filled. He didn't fully understand it, didn't fully comprehend what had happened in the past twenty-four hours to make such a profound change in him. But whatever it was, whatever changes were unfolding, he welcomed them. For the first time in his life he felt free.

"Oh damn!" Luke blurted out. "I gotta go to the store. The guys are expecting eye-openers tomorrow so I gotta get all the stuff. I don't even have any vodka here."

"Chill, man. It's still early, there's plenty of time to do all that. Let's get dressed and head into town. Maybe get lunch somewhere."

"You're right." Luke said. "You want me to find some clean clothes for you?"

"That'd be great. Something smart, but casual. Is it too early in the day for off-the-shoulder?"

"If you start that shit, you're outta here. Come on, you can check out 'Luke's Closette'."

After they dressed Jon said, "We can take my car. That is, if they haven't towed it by now."

"They didn't. I called Sam last night and told him he'd have an overnight guest."

"Oh, man, thanks. I can't believe you thought of that," and Jon gave him a quick kiss. It still felt a little weird, after having suppressed his feelings for so long.

They dressed quickly and headed toward the parking lot. Jon had an almost irresistible urge to put his arm around Luke. Not only did he want to be close, he wanted the world to see and share his happiness.

The two got into the car and headed toward town. Luke's left arm was resting on the console. Jon reached over and entwined his fingers with Luke's. Jon glanced over and saw Luke staring straight ahead with a smile on his face.

Jon turned into the municipal lot and found a space. They walked to the street and headed nowhere in particular. After they'd walked a couple of blocks they came to an ice cream shop. Luke asked, "Are you hungry?"

"Not so much right now. You?"

"No, me neither. Breakfast did the trick for me. Let's get some ice cream and that should hold us until dinner. We can skip lunch."

The two entered the ice cream parlor. Luke ordered a vanilla cone and Jon ordered Rocky Road. Jon chuckled inwardly at their choices. "Jeez, I hope our taste preferences don't extend to the bedroom," he thought. "I might have my work cut out for me."

They left the parlor and resumed their leisurely walk. "What are you smiling about?" asked Luke.

"Oh, nothing." Jon noticed Luke had a drop of ice cream on the end of his nose. He swiped his finger at the offending drop, then put it in his mouth.

"Waste not, want not."

Luke laughed and threw his arm over Jon's shoulder. "You're crazy, but I think I like it.."

They found themselves walking past a small strip mall with a liquor store. Luke nudged Jon. "Here we go. I can get everything we need."

They entered the store and found the section that featured vodka.

Luke asked, "What kind should I get? You're the expert on this stuff."

"I'm hardly an expert, but since we're only using it for making bloodys, I'd say get the cheap stuff. Not rot-gut, but you don't need to go Effen. Get something in between."

Luke selected a bottle of Smirnoff and a large bottle of Effen.

"What's that for?"

"I'm expecting company. I want to make sure he's comfortable."

Jon smiled. "I'm sure he will be. Effen or not."

Luke handed the bottles to Jon. "Hold these while I see if they have olives."

He located the section he wanted and selected a jar of stuffed olives. He also found Bloody Mary mixer, limes and some celery salt. He figured anything else he'd need he already had at home. Satisfied with his selections, he looked for Jon. He was standing near the checkout.

"Got everything?" Jon asked.

"I think so. Can you think of anything else?"

Jon glanced at the items Luke was holding. "Nope. I think we're good to go."

The clerk scanned their items and Luke reached for his wallet. Jon put his hand on Luke's arm to stop him. "I'm getting this. In appreciation of your hospitality."

Luke started to protest, then stopped. "Only if you let me buy dinner."

"Deal."

They stepped outside. Jon said, "Let's go back to the car and get rid of this stuff. We don't want to lug it all over with us."

They walked back to the car and stowed their purchases in the trunk. Having done that, they started walking again.

"Anywhere you want to go?" asked Luke.

"No, let's just wander."

As they walked, Luke purposely lagged a step or two behind Jon. He liked looking at him and watching his body move. For someone who worked indoors, Jon had an amazingly athletic build and a way of moving that reminded him of a large cat. A cougar, or something. Luke was ecstatic that he and Jon had finally let down their defenses. He had wanted to tell Jon how he felt for a long time, but never knew how to broach the subject. He also wasn't certain how Jon felt about him before yesterday. Luke was not a big risk-taker and liked to know where he stood before he made a move.

Luke sped up a bit so he was next to Jon. "Jon?"

"Hmm?"

"Why didn't you ever hit on me?"

Jon let out a chuckle. "Because I thought you were straight. God, I wanted to, though. And I would have if I'd thought there was a chance. But then Molly came along and I figured that's it. The guy's straight. Damn, that destroyed me. I was a wreck that night I first saw you with her. Paul came to my place because he sensed I was upset. I ended up blubbering on his shoulder and spilling my guts. He was cool with it, though. We talked and he made me feel a little bit better."

"Jeez, I'm sorry. Sorry I caused you to go through all that."

"It's okay. Now it is, at least." He smiled at Luke. "But if you knew I was gay, why didn't you hit on me? And why didn't I pick up that you were gay?"

"I wanted to, a lot. But I couldn't. I was afraid of what might happen if you rejected me. Not what would happen to me, but how it would affect our friendship. When I was 12 or 13 and first realized I might be gay I was terrified that anyone, especially my parents, would find out. So I made a conscious effort to be 'one of the guys.' I studied the way they acted, talked, walked, even how they threw a ball or swung a bat. Apparently I was a good study, because few people know I'm gay unless they're told. It almost came at a terrible price, though."

"What's that?"

Luke threw his arm around Jon and a gave him a squeeze. "You, numbskull!" He left his arm across Jon's back with his hand resting on his shoulder. Jon smiled. It felt good.

The rest of the afternoon was spent window-shopping and stopping in a few stores to browse, but neither of them bought anything. Eventually they found themselves in front of a Greek-style restaurant.

"You ever eat here?" asked Jon.

"No."

"Wanna give it a try?"

"Why not?"

They entered the eatery and were shown to a booth. After looking over the menu, Luke opted for the Grecian Chicken. Jon was going to order the Gyro Platter but decided it might not be the wisest choice. He was thinking ahead to what might happen later in the evening. He ordered a skirt steak sandwich.

Both the food and service were very good, better than they had expected. The men agreed they'd stop in again, maybe with the rest of the gang. Luke, as promised, paid the check and left a generous tip. They left the restaurant satisfied and ready to go home.

As they were driving home Luke looked at Jon. "Jon?"

Jon glanced at him for a second. "What's up?"

"Would you..." Luke's voice cracked unexpectedly. He cleared his throat and began again. "Would you spend the night with me?"

Jon grinned from ear to ear. "I thought you'd never ask. Of course I will."

Luke smiled and winked at him. Neither spoke the rest of the way.

As Jon pulled into the complex he said, "I should probably stop at my place and get some clothes. We're going to be out all day tomorrow."

"You don't have to. I've got plenty of clothes you can wear."

"Okay, thanks. You're right, it would just waste time." He raised his eyebrows a couple of times ala Groucho Marx. Jon liked the idea of wearing Luke's clothes. It made him feel that much closer to his boyfriend, and there was a slight sexual thrill, too.

They found a spot in guest parking and carried the bags into Luke's place. After removing their shoes they sat down to watch some TV. That's what they'd planned, anyway, but Jon pushed Luke onto his back on the couch and put his arms around him. He moved forward and their lips met. Luke got his arms freed and wrapped them around Jon. Their tongues dueled for several minutes, and each of them was aware of the other's erection through their Levi's. Jon finally raised himself and knelt with his knees inside Luke's legs. They smiled at each other and Jon slowly began to unbutton Luke's shirt. He admired his muscular chest.

"How do you stay so tan all year?" asked Jon.

"I don't. It fades in the winter."

"Doesn't look like it to me."

"I tan easily and I get pretty dark by the end of summer. Gradually it fades, but I never get pale. It's my Middle-Eastern roots on my mother's side, I guess."

"Whatever it is, it's damn sexy."

Jon leaned forward again and kissed Luke's lips. He continued down to his neck, shoulders, chest and stomach. He playfully nipped at Luke's "treasure trail" which caused Luke to jerk.

"Careful there," Luke warned. "You're getting into dangerous territory."

Jon raised his head slightly, looked up and smiled. "I'll take my chances." He then resumed kissing and tonguing Luke's torso.

Eventually Jon worked his way back up for another kiss. After a minute Luke broke it off.

"These jeans are getting awfully uncomfortable. Let's do something about that."

They stood and Jon ran his hands up Luke's sides, sliding his shirt the rest of the way off. Luke took his hand and led him to the bedroom. Once there Jon started to unbutton his shirt but Luke stopped him.

"Let me do that," he said quietly.

Jon stood as Luke unbuttoned his shirt, seemingly with great concentration. He pulled the shirt out of Jon's pants and released the last button, then slid the shirt from his shoulders. It dropped to the floor. They wrapped their arms around each other and reveled in the feeling of their bare chests pressed together. They sat on the bed and removed their jeans. They looked at each other, just slightly nervous, smiled and removed their boxers. This was the first time they'd been totally naked together, and neither was disappointed. They scooted back onto the bed and embraced again, their dicks mashed together. As they kissed Jon began to rock his hips slowly.

"Are you more comfortable now?"

"Much," replied Luke with a smile.

Jon once again began working his way down Luke's body. When he reached the point where Luke's cock was standing straight in front of his face Jon regarded it for a minute. He was an accomplished cocksucker, but it had been a while and Luke was substantially bigger than what would be considered normal. He touched his tongue to the tip of Luke's cock and slowly licked down to the base. He proceeded to bathe his sac and took one testicle into his mouth. He heard Luke groan with pleasure. After massaging it thoroughly he switched to its twin and repeated the process. Luke was moaning non-stop. Jon tried to take both balls into his mouth, but it would be a tight fit, if he could do it at all. He decided not to risk hurting Luke.

Jon released him with a slight pop. He raised himself up and took the head of Luke's cock into his mouth. He bobbed a little and swirled his tongue around the ridge.

"Oh, Jon!" Luke moaned.

Jon continued working his way down, getting the shaft slick with saliva. When the tip of Luke's cock hit the back of his throat he paused. He took a couple of deep breaths, willed his throat to relax, and plunged his head into Luke's crotch.

"Oh Jesus, babe. Ohhh!"

Jon continued his ministrations and almost couldn't believe he was actually sucking on Luke's cock. It was more thrilling than he could have hoped for.

"Wait, babe. Stop a minute. I don't want to cum yet," Luke pleaded. They lay there gasping for air. Luke scooted down and they got into a 69 position.

Luke stared at Jon's cock for a moment. He wasn't sure how to go about this; he'd had his dick sucked many times, but he'd never reciprocated. He was determined to make Jon happy. He wanted to please him in the worst way, and as Jon resumed sucking him, Luke dove onto Jon's cock. He was a little too ambitious initially and began to gag, so he backed off and used his tongue more. Luke decided he'd just do what he knew felt good to him. After a few minutes he began to relax and enjoy having Jon's cock in his mouth, not to mention his own down Jon's throat. As his excitement grew he felt Jon growing even harder and larger, then suddenly he began to shoot his load into Luke's mouth. Luke was determined not to waste one drop and he swallowed desperately as his own load flooded Jon's throat. He was trembling.

They were still for a few minutes, Luke lightly stroking Jon's thigh. Luke turned around so he was facing Jon. They looked into each other's eyes, smiled and embraced in a passionate kiss. They rested their heads on the pillows and looked at one another, smiling.

"That was incredible," whispered Jon.

"For me, too. I just need some practice; I'll get better at it."

"You were fine. But I'll be happy to help you practice any time."

"I'll be your star pupil."

"That won't be difficult. You'll be my only pupil," smiled Jon. They kissed again for a long moment.

Luke said, "Turn around. I want to hold you."

Jon rolled over and snuggled his back into Luke's chest. Luke put his arms around his boyfriend and squeezed him gently. He had never felt this peaceful. It had never been this wonderful, this fulfilling. He took a deep breath and exhaled.

"What?" asked Jon.

"Nothing. Just thinking how great it was. How great you are."

Jon smiled and moved Luke's hand to his chest and put his own on top. He loved the feeling of Luke's arms around him. A great sense of peace, contentment and comfort came over him, and soon they were both asleep.

# # #

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