The Mennonite-A New Start 13 CGW
Danny asked; Peter if he wanted to visit his Dad at the store or wait until he went home, if we wait until he gets home we will have to deal with the brothers and they can be such a pain in the butt, but they are on the puny side so I can always whip their asses if they talk too much crap.
Danny; I'm sorry when I said; we would have to tell your folks, I wish your Mom was still alive so she could share in our joy.
It's okay Peter; I still let it slip around Dad and say; if Mom was still alive she would understand us boys. It makes me feel so bad when I see the pain it causes him. So can we go see him at the store now? Oh crap I don't have my truck here.
Clay said; Daddy and I will carry you two to see your Dad at the store and let you two tell him. Thank you Mr. Gunderson, I would like the backup support. That's Clay to you young man.
Micah spoke; Danny, don't sell your father short he just might surprise you. And as far as your brothers are concerned if they don't accept your relationship with Peter then it's their loss.
We arrived at the store and Danny helped Peter out of the truck and walked him into the store, his father was in his office working Micah and Clay hung back and waited. Clay was a little worried but Micah knew otherwise.
Danny and Peter walked into Walt's office; Danny closed the door behind him. We could Danny standing behind Peter and they showed Walt the rings Danny had purchased for them. Walt did not react he sat at his desk; he slowly stood up and walked around his desk. As he did Danny placed himself in front of Peter to protect him unknowing what his father was going to do. Walt walk up to his son and hugged him and shook his hand, He looked at the rings the boys wore on their hands leaned over and kissed Peter upon his cheek.
Walt motioned for us to come into the office, he was all smiles he said; this was the first time in the six months since his wife passed away that he had something to smile about. Just when we think our whole world has ended our kids remind us that there is still good in it and life is worth living.
Now Clay since we are going to be kin-folk now, think we can do something about those shipping cost. Clay responded only if you order more and give a family discount on the items we purchase here. Everyone laughed.
We left Danny at the store and headed to the house when Peter asked; if it's okay with you Dad, I want Poppa and Anders to take me to see Doc. Ivan so I can ask him when Danny and I can make love for the first time so he can remove any trace that monster left inside of me.
Clay said; that wouldn't be a problem in fact here's my phone call Poppa yourself and ask him to make the appointment for you.
Thanks Dad, you're the best. You and grandpa both, you're my rocks of support that keep this family together.
Peter called Poppa Clayton and he said; he would take care of calling Anders and Ivan for the appointment at the clinic.
In a few minutes Micah's phone rang, it was Clayton; Micah; I spoke with Ivan and he will meet with all of us here at the house tonight so tell Peter to have Danny here to meet Ivan so he can go over everything, also the Princess is home for good and she can't wait for you 3 to arrive.
Peter; call Danny have him and his Dad come over to the house tonight to meet Ivan so we can all talk. And guess who just showed up Clay? I have no idea Daddy who is there? Izabella just arrived back from Paris for good.
Clay remarked 8+ years was long enough to be gone for some book learning, I wonder if she turned snooty. Micah looked at Clay and said; green is not your color young man. Sorry Daddy, replied Clay.
As we pulled into the drive, there sat a new bright red 2016 Ford Crew Cab Ranger loaded with chrome everywhere, Clay remarked; I wonder how long we have until she has to carry that thing back to the rental agency.
When Micah got out of the truck he was met by Izabella when she flew around his neck at full force and began to kiss him all over his face, she left his embrace and grabbed Clay and kissed his cheek and said; it's so good to be home for good. Clay just couldn't help himself and said; so when do we have to carry the red monster back.
Izabella responded; when I wear it out, it was my first purchase when I arrived back you didn't think I would ride a bus around when I had so many gifts for everyone, did you Clay. I love being home at last safe and sound. Now let me meet that great looking son I have heard so much about and show me that ring I've been told about.
A frightened Peter didn't know what to make out this new lady that was here. Izabella gently hugged his neck and said; she so honored to meet him and that she was proud he was part of her family. Now show me that ring your Hunky dreamboat gave you. She gushed on and on about the ring and how lucky he met his perfect match in life, she wished them the very best for their future and she had a special surprise for him for their joining ceremony.
We are not allowed to be joined it's against the Mennonite beliefs responded Peter.
Izabella said; well that won't do, it's about damned time the Mennonites got their shit together and in the 21st Century stop living in the past. And Daddy no disrespect intended, but you need to damned well do something to protect Poppa if anything happens to you.
Let's go inside Peter, so these guys can bring in what I've got in the truck for everyone.
Clay couldn't believe all of the boxes that were in the truck, he hollered at the boys to help get all of this stuff inside before the rainstorm headed this way got it all wet.
Peter and Izabella sat on the sofa and she picked up her sketch pad and started to draw an outfit for him to wear the day he and Danny would be joined as partners in life. She asked; David to get her the large red case on wheel and bring it to her. Izabella opened the case; it was filled with the finest fabrics anyone had seen. She pulled out a bolt of the finest white silk ever had been seen in the country of Belize and remarked; this will do just fine for the outfit I will make for you Peter. He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw the fabric she was planning to use. He said; this is too much I can't let you waste this nice fabric on me, I'm not worth it. I'm just lucky to find someone that would have me after I was soiled by that monster.
Izabella took Peter's hand in hers and said; Peter what he did to you was a crime and it was against your will, you have never given yourself freely to another to be his equal in this life so in my books you are still a virgin in every sense of the word, Danny is the lucky one to have someone like you in his life. I will make sure that you will have your special day and yes you do deserve this gift, even more than anyone else, so be proud of who you are, because you are a survivor.
Peter hugged Izabella and thanked her for her words of understanding and support. Clay stood there with tears running down his face, how smart she had become, he loved his cousin more than anything now. I dried my eyes and said; it's getting late and we need to get a meal started for this evening. Izabella said; I would like to make a special desert for tonight's meal.
Clay said; you cook now cousin? Izabella remarked there are a lot of things that I do now Cousin so sit back and be prepared to be amazed, and just to let you know I'm an 8th degree black belt, so mess with me and I'll just have to kick your ass.
Clay held his hands up and said; I give up, I know by that tone in your voice you mean it and laughed.
Izabella went to the kitchen and started to bake; Anders and I went in and started a traditional Belizean meal of rice and beans with stewed pork and fresh veggies and a side salad.
As everyone started to show up for supper Peter started to get nervous about this evening and how it would go, Izabella told him it would be perfect and if it wasn't, she would kick some people in the ass. Peter laughed for the first time since the attack. Clay smiled and told Micah she's good for him, Micah responded she will be good for the Community.
Izabella sat beside Peter and asked; so what does this young hunk of yours do for a living? He works for his dads store in S.L. he's in training for a job with more responsibility's there. That's nice Peter but when the two of you decide to expand your family can you two support yourselves. Clay walked up and remarked; it's the largest hardware store in S.L. and it's doing very well and has been for years my dear Cousin, young Peter landed him a real catch in Danny Lawson.
Just as long as he treats him like the treasure he is will be okay with me Clay, that's my main concern. Izabella, I wish you could have seen Danny earlier. When they told his dad, Walt got up from his desk and walked around it. Danny placed himself in front of Peter as protection not knowing what his father was going to do. I know he will never raise a hand in anger to him; he loves Peter too much for that to happen.
David was at the window and announced Mr. Dreamboat has arrived to see Peter. Izabella walked up behind him and popped David on the back of the head and said; be nice young man or I will tan your hide. David rubbed his head and remarked looks like are going to learn how to run from this one Robert she doesn't play when hits you, that shit hurt and ran like heck to his room.
Clay let the Lawson's inside Walt stepped in first then Danny followed by his brothers Levi and Stewart. Danny made a beeline to Peter, sat beside him and kissed him. Levi and Stewart's mouths dropped wide open Izabella remarked what's wrong boys haven't you ever saw your brother kiss the person he's engaged to before. Levi said; no mam I didn't know anything at all. Stewart responded; it's about time when Peter was hurt I thought Danny was going to make himself sick with worry; plus he talks in his sleep, I can ask him anything and he tell me the truth. He's had a crush since he first saw him at the store, even said he would marry him one day, only if he felt the same way the world would be perfect. It looks like it's a perfect world after all.
Walt remarked that went better than I thought it would, I didn't have to whip either one of their butts in front of folks. Now what smells so good, it's sort of like a fresh hot buttered vanilla pound cake? I responded your nose is broken I haven't baked one of those in 6 months.
As I told everyone where they were to sit at the table, I made sure Izabella and Walt sat next to one another. I had my suspicions about something just wanted to put them to the test. If I was correct let the fireworks begin if not oh well no harm done. Izabella asked; who at the table has standing next to or near a fire or burning brush and didn't take a bath before showing up to the table. Micah snickered; I placed my finger in front of my lip to tell him to hush.
We ate and had a fantastic time, Ivan showed up late from the clinic, I said; Peter you and Danny follow me and Ivan to my room so we can talk for a few minutes. As Peter explained what he needed to know about his body and how it would react when he and Danny consummated their relationship for the first time?
Ivan told the two boys that any physical activity would have to be done with care and to take their time, no rushing into things but most important is to use lots of lube. Peter's body may shut down when attempt to enter him, not because he doesn't want it but his mind fears the trauma it perceives will happen to it. But proper preparation is the key to a safe healthy sexual relationship between you two. He gave them so pamphlets explaining how to have anal sex, oral sex and sexual positions. Now young men as far as to when you can try to start you relationship, wait until I remove Peters cast on next Friday and when you get a proper place to start your new life and you are joined.
Peter looked disheartened; that's means never because under Mennonite rule we can never be joined, only allowed to live together, but Danny will never be my husband.
I hugged Peter and said; Izabella spoke of something earlier and I think she needs to explain it to all of us.
We walked into the main room; I asked Izabella what she meant earlier by I need to be protected? Poppa you have no spousal rights if anything if something happens to Daddy, you be left with nothing the kids will have to fight the sect for their rights. Unless you and Daddy are allowed to be joined as a couple and the union is recognized by the sect. In fact we could lose the entire Giving Community, we are good enough to support others, own land, businesses, and raise children that others discard, even save the boys at the home and run it for the government through this community. But you aren't allowed to make sure your partner in life is cared for if you die, this must not be allowed to continue to happen.
Walt spoke up and said; I want my son to know if something should happen to him, Peter will inherit his portion of everything they have.
Micah said; Izabella can you draw up some paperwork to this effect that I can present to the council of Elders. I'm way ahead of you on that Daddy, she went to her briefcase and handed him a file. This is what you will need to give to them to sign that will make it legal and binding in any court of law.
If needed said Walt, I will put a petition of support in the store, if people don't like it they can trade elsewhere also I want the boys to live here in the Giving Community near you and Clayton. The world has come a long ways but there are those still that look down on others that live different lives than their own. I have always made sure that my boys have had clean clothes and food on the table to eat and love, but everything else I made them work for it. I could have given them a life of privilege but I wanted to teach them respect of others and after seeing the way he treats Peter, I think I was correct in the way I raised Danny. When they are both old enough to travel outside the country as a joined couple I will fulfill a promise made to my late wife and send them for 2 weeks to the city of lights for a belated Honeymoon Gift.
Danny said; Dad that's too much we can't do let you do that, as long as we are together a trip to Cozumel would be fine with us. Peter spoke up; Mr. Lawson, Danny is correct we don't need Paris to be happy just each other. Izabella responded; boys if there one thing that I do know, it's that you honor a promise to a departed loved one no matter what. Danny and Peter said; yes mam.
Walt pitched Danny a set of keys and remarked; it's just a base model nothing fancy but its blue and I don't have to worry about that old clunker breaking down and leaving Peter sitting on the side of the road while you walk to get help. And by the way it's siting out front for you and Peter.
Danny and Peter walked to the front door and true to Walt's word was sitting a Bright Blue 2016 Crew Cab 4x4 Ford Ranger pickup with a big red bow on it. Walt remarked it's an early wedding gift boy's so enjoy, both Danny and Peter hugged Walt and thanked him for everything. Danny thanked him for being his Dad and he loved him more that he would ever realize.
Izabella remarked that Walt had raised him a very nice son and was still a heck of a catch for any Woman looking for a good man. Stewart popped off; he's back on the market if you like what you see and I've got some inside pull if you need it Izzy. Izabella turned red in the face and glad the whole bunch didn't hear what she said; But Micah and I did, I elbowed him in the ribs.
I walked up to Stewart and placed my arm on his shoulder and whispered; we have a very important mission young man, he smiled at me and remarked operation getting Dad hitched has begun.
Micah walked up beside me and asked; what are you two plotting? Stewart responded hopefully a double joining sir. Dad is so dense he didn't smell no danged cake he smelled her, and the burning smell she got a whiff of was his rusty gears going into overdrive, he's been stuck in park for so long he's lucky he didn't drop his transmission oil at the dang table. Micah had to restrain himself to keep from laughing out loud at young Stewart's choice of words. I whispered to Stewart why was he pushing for this to happen. First, I want to see my Dad happy again, second I want me a little sister or two to spoil rotten.
Danny asked if he could have the next day off so he and Peter could spend the day together enjoying the start of their new life. Levi retorted only if you bring him by the store and show him and those fancy rings off to everyone you bought for him almost a year ago and kept in your pocket for so long. I'm not as dense as you think I am and if you allow me I would be honored to stand by your side at the joining.
Danny hugged his older brother and kissed Peter goodnight then he followed Walt home in their new truck.
The next day the whole Community was buzzing about a petition at the hardware store folk were signing giving the couples in the giving community rights as spouses, Sister Esther sat up her a table and took her a chair behind it and called in favors from others to sign the petition. When someone made an unfriendly remark about it she reminded that there was a time when they were helped out by the Giving Community and where would they be now if Elder Micah and Clayton hadn't helped them out. Walt had to print more signature forms. When Danny and Peter arrived she stood up and began to clap as did the whole store, Sister Esther walked up to Danny and hugged his neck and kissed his cheek, she kissed Peter and asked to showed those rings his big brother Levi keeps talking about so much. Then she paid Danny the biggest compliment ever, if I had ever been blessed with a grandson I hope he would have been just like you; perfect and was blessed with a nice young man like Peter to love forever him too.
Micah received a call to come forth and face the council of Elders for judgement. This could be a good thing or they could strip his title of Elder from him. Such a rapid call to order didn't sound like a good thing at all and I was worried. Micah said; not to worry if the Giving Community had to break away from the main Mennonite Community we would survive standing alone because we were strong and committed to each other.
Micah entered the meeting hall with the petition in arms and the doors closed behind him. Our futures were sealed whether good or bad it was set. The head Elder spoke; Elder for all of these years you have never asked for any special consideration to your lifestyle, may we ask of you why now do you ask this of us.
Micah spoke; this is not for me but for my grandson Peter and his Intended Danny Lawson, Peter feels like they will never truly be a couple if they aren't allowed to be joined in the true Mennonite ways. If something were to happen to Danny he would entitled to nothing they had built for themselves or any children they might have, I had never really thought of this matter until our Daughter pointed out that if I died first my partner Clayton would lose everything we worked for all of our lives and the Giving Community would cease to exist as we know it. I would like for this council to consider this petition I have here; signed by over 85% of the various Mennonite Communities represented here today.
The council thanked Micah and asked for him to wait outside until they reached their decision and it would be announced to the masses. Micah walked out and the doors were closed behind him.
Word had gotten out and people for all sects started to arrive, wishing Micah the very best, hopeful the council made the right decision for all concerned.
The doors were opened after 3 hours and Micah was asked to enter and have a seat along with Clayton, Izabella, Danny and Peter on the front row.
The lead Elder spoke; Peter Andrews Gunderson step forward and face this council. You young man have caused us a great dilemma here today. You have refused to lay with another young man who cares for you a great deal and be known to him in a carnal way until you two are joined in the Mennonite way, it has been said; you feel like you are less of a person if you allow him to mark you with his seed as his if you aren't truly his to mark. And to this we commend you.
Izabella Gunderson; step forward, young lady you are a great asset to your family and the whole Mennonite Community, your protective nature and insightfulness is a rare quality that we see in the young Mennonites here today, that only comes from the influence that you received as a child growing up in a well-structured home and community as the Giving Community. We would like to invite you to this Council as an advisor in the ways of the outside world so we can make decisions that better us for the people we represent here.
A very shocked Izabella accepted the appointment to the Council of Elders.
Danny Allen Lawson step forward; young man you have found a rare soul in Peter Gunderson and you will need to take care of him in the future
Elder Micah Earl Gunderson and Clayton Gunderson please step forward and face this Council; we stepped forward and Micah took my hand in his as a sign of support.
You two have done more for the Mennonite communities since you have been here as partners and for that we are thankful but with that said; the petition for joined status is denied today. A loud upset rumble started out in the crowd.
The Elder held up his hand to hush the upset crowd, Miss. Gunderson, we will need a form drawn up to make the joining's legal and will withstanding any court challenges to them, and we need them by the start of the week so people can present them next week at a mass joining. Young Peter you will be granted you wish next Saturday here and I will join the couples myself, starting with you and your young man and then you're Grandparents Micah and Clayton Gunderson, Meeting dismissed.
As soon as the Elder said; meeting dismissed I never saw so many Mennonites on cell phones in my whole life. The great decision spread like wild fire. Micah kissed me and said; I love you Mr. Gunderson, I responded I love you too Mr. Gunderson.
Danny kissed Peter and said; I can't wait to be with you Peter Andrews Gunderson Lawson as my husband and equal. Peter told Danny I love you my future husband and will be with you forever.
Walt got caught up in the excitement and grabbed Izabella and kissed with a deep passion only meant for those truly that had found their mate for life. He realized what he had done and turned red face and said; I'm so sorry for kissing you without your permission and pulled backwards from her. Izabella wasn't a person to let an opportunity of a lifetime escape her wrapped her arms around Walt's neck and kissed him with all of the passion in her whole body. Everyone stopped and just watched them in their embrace. Levi watched with his mouth hanging open, he stuttered what's going on here with dad and Miss Gunderson? Stewart popped off; hopefully in about 9-1/2 months a little sister for me to spoil rotten.
Walt said; Stewart son, now don't go getting ahead of yourself young man, I don't even know if she wants to get married to an old goat like me. You're correct responded Izabella I don't want an old goat; I want the good looking stallion in front of me to give me a beautiful daughter so her big brothers can spoil her rotten, and if there a few more boys along the way the more the merrier. I'll be waiting third in line in my wedding gown for you here next Saturday, and don't make me come and hunt you down and embarrass your ass by dragging you to my wedding Walt Lawson what kind of example would that set for my new step son Danny who's getting married that day to. Walt kissed her back and said; a herd of wild beast couldn't keep me away from here next Saturday and marrying you.
Izabella came over to me and said; Poppa I have to start on the joining forms, my dress and your and Peter's outfits to be joined and we only have a little over a week. My phone rang it was Ivan, Eve's water just broke and they were headed to the hospital. She was now 39-1/2 weeks along with quadruplets. Ivan said; he hoped they could make to the nearest hospital in time.
We rushed out of the meeting hall and headed to the hospital, Ivan called they were sitting on the side of the road with a blowout Dr. Andy was with them, Ivan said; oh shit it's a little girl, Eve just had the first one here in the truck on the side of the road, I asked where are you at Ivan, we were on the way he told me, we were 10-15 minutes from them. Oh shit, shit, shit it's a boy replied Ivan, Poppa hurry they are coming fast there's another one crowning oh crap it's another boy. That's 2 boys and a girl, and she's at it again, the last one was another little girl. We could see their truck on the side of the roadway when Dr. Andy could be heard over the speakerphone saying; folks we have a little problem, Eve I know your tired buy it seems you have a little stole way and when I say push I need you to push as hard as you can. Push Eve, push hard this baby's life depends on it just as we stepped up to the truck the last little boy was delivered, Andy placed him in my arms to hold. That's makes 3 boys and 2 girls for you today Eve, not a bad day. Ivan was lying passed out on the ground after 5 new babies he deserved it, Eve was doing great she responded; he likes to make them alright but when the going gets rough he passes his lightweight ass out.
We all laughed as the ambulance pulled up, Eve popped off what the Hell took you people so damned long I had time to deliver 5 babies while stranded here on the side of this damned road and now after it's all over you show up. Dr. Andy said; now calm down Eve and they will carry you in and we will be there a little while with Ivan. I said; I'm going with her, the ambulance attendant said; no more room you stay here. To which I replied to him while holding the last baby, I'm going also if you have to stay here in the ditch; he let me into the Ambulance with the baby.