"This above all: To thine own self be true, for it must follow as dost the night the day, that canst not be false to any man." Shakespeare (Hamlet)
More wrestling action coming soon. Thanks to TalonRider for assistance proofing the story.
Please do not distribute to other sites without permission of the author. Comments can be sent to firehosejoe@yahoo.com
From the previous chapter:
Tenting his fingers, Charles shut his eyes and leaning back recalled the face he'd memorized. Handsome, articulate, confident and likely physically disciplined as well, this was a student he'd like to get to know better. He considered how to structure the independent study to achieve his goal.
His office hours over, Thibodaux headed home. He enjoyed the heaviness of his penis as it moved in his boxers against his leg. Yes, he'd enjoy remembering this young man as he gave himself pleasure later.
Chapter 19
Alejandro drove back to his office wondering what had been so captivating about Dr. Thibodaux. Cool accent, good looking but still a typical professor type. It was obvious from his tone that he felt his authority a bit threatened by the request from his Dean. Oh well, all he can say is no. Alejandro knew he'd make it work one way or the other. But what was it about him that Alejandro found attractive.
The call came the next day. Could Mr. Algara meet Dr. Thibodaux at the Institute any time between three and five? At their meeting, Dr. Thibodaux had a text, a syllabus and the course requirements prepared. They agreed on a weekly meeting to review progress, and have a Q and A about specific paintings. Thibodaux decided not to play the innocent regarding the Algara family's contribution to the Institute.
"How often do you visit the Institute, Mr. Algara?" he asked.
"I came with my grandmamma as a young child. They were some of my favorite adventures. You'd have had to know my grandmother Isabella to begin to understand that. Afterward, there were the obligatory school trips. Since then, not often" Alejandro answered.
"Are you familiar with our O'Keeffe holdings? Gifts from your grandparents began that significant collection." Thibodaux said, watching Alejandro carefully for his reaction.
"Familiar? I'd have to say no. I'm aware that the family has made gifts in general and funded the purchase of specific works in the past." Alejandro answered candidly.
There was no guile evident in his response, attitude or posture. Thibodaux began to relax. The remainder of their visit centered on some of the Institutes significant pieces and an exhibition coming in the spring. Thibodaux pointed out that the paintings he'd selected for Alejandro's in-depth study of each period were held either by the Institute or the University. Partly in jest he said there'd be no excuses for lack of in-depth study of assigned works. Their parting was congenial.
Their weekly meetings became a high point for Alejandro. The discussion was stimulating. Dr. Thibodaux was animated as he pointed out elements of the `work of the week' as they laughingly referred to them. Afterward, they went to his office to finish a review of readings and to answer questions Alejandro might have.
"Mr. Algara, I have to admit that this exercise has been gratifying for me and I hope you. At first pass I was against it. Now I just wish my other classes were this enjoyable." Thibodaux said. They continued chatting having concluded their `official business'. Alejandro suggested they go out for dinner since he had work to complete at his office.
Thibodaux enjoyed the easy nature and confident demeanor he saw in Alejandro. Wanting to know more, Thibodaux had researched the Algara family's contributions to learn about Alejandro's father and grandparents. Public records and news articles were available on microfiche at the library. It gave him a wider frame in which to observe this unusual student.
Asking some leading questions as they dined, Thibodaux revealed he had done some benign investigation. Alejandro seemed not to take offence. His family had been so much a public fixture for so many years; he took general questions as a matter of course. As he'd hoped, Alejandro asked about the Thibodaux family, his southern roots, and how he'd become interested in art.
They lingered over coffee and split a dessert. When Alejandro next became aware of the time, he realized he would have to put off the work and return home. Jase was due in less than an hour.
Jase was methodical as a wrestling coach. He enjoyed training with Alejandro because of his attention to detail, great physical shape and good retention of skills learned in the past. As usual, they warmed up and stretched together. Jase reviewed what he wanted them to practice. They tied up and soon Alejandro was on his back.
"You've not let me get away with that move in months!" Jase asked questioningly. "Your mind somewhere else tonight?" Laughing, he continued, "If it is, expect to get a good pounding!"
"Sorry Jase. Yeah, I'm a bit distracted. Don't worry, I'm back. My back hitting the mat this early got me focused. Go ahead and try it again, you bruiser." Alejandro smiled as he readied himself.
Their workout was as tough as usual; still Alejandro knew he hadn't been concentrating. Instead he'd been thinking about Dr. Thibodaux on and off the entire evening. As he and Jase showered, Jase usually reviewed the workout. Tonight he asked if anything was wrong.
"Alex, you weren't focused tonight like you usually are. Have things changed with your dad?" Jase asked with some concern, wondering what the cause might be.
"Sorry Jase. I know I was off my game. Guess I'm distracted about one of my classes. No change in Father, but thanks for your concern and asking about him." Alejandro responded.
After checking in on his father, Alejandro headed to the kitchen for a snack, then up to his room. After finishing his reading he prepared for bed. Later with lights off, he lay awake thinking of Dr. Thibodaux. He realized that he was beginning genuinely to like the man. Dinner had been a great time of easy conversation as they shared parts of their lives.
Alejandro wasn't a bit surprised that Thibodaux had done research on his family. Their involvement with the Institute would have provided a good spring board for a person who had a bent toward research. It was natural that questions would follow. Alejandro smiled; instead of being insulted he felt a bit of a compliment had been extended.
The smile gradually faded as he reminded himself of the obvious and logical. Thibodaux' involvement in the Institute could very well be the motivation for his interest in Alejandro. If that were the case, it would be a shame, but not a big surprise. Time would tell.
The next week, after they'd finished their discussion. Dr. Thibodaux asked, "Last week after dinner, you seemed in a bit of a hurry to leave. I trust nothing was said that made you regret our slight relaxation between teacher and student."
Alejandro looked at him puzzled. He quickly replayed the end of dinner the week before, he could see how the question might come to Thibodaux' mind.
"I'm sorry I left that impression, Dr. Thibodaux. I enjoyed dinner and our conversation thoroughly."
Alejandro went on to explain about the scheduled work out with Jase, adding a bit of his background and interest in the sport. Thibodaux began to relax immediately. They were soon chatting about their various interests and efforts to stay physically fit.
"Things have been hectic during my relocation here. I'm just getting settled in." Thibodaux said. "Since college years, I've enjoyed playing racquetball. I finally found a club that I was comfortable with just a few miles away from my work." Seeing Alejandro's interest he continued.
"It's an old Y. When plans were announced to level the building a group of supporters marshaled their friends and funds. As I understand it, one of the members was an architect and well healed. He'd been coming to the Y for years. The group bought it, rehabbed it and if you like retro it's a great place. Still has the back and white tiles and all the kind of things buildings of that era had as standard equipment.
"The main reason I like it is that it reminds me of a place near where I grew up. I relax, get a thorough work out, and as a bonus it has six racquetball courts plus quite a few men who are good players. As I mentioned, swimming is another passion of mine and their pool and steam facilities are top notch. If you'd like, come and be my guest sometime."
Alejandro smiled, recalling pleasant memories that he'd have to shelve when he visited with Thibodaux. "If you don't mind staying in the role of teacher, I'd enjoy getting some initial pointers in racquetball if you can tolerate a rank beginner."
Thibodaux agreed immediately. "That would be fun. Courts are most easily obtained late afternoon. We could enjoy a lesson in racquetball and spend some time in the pools. Perhaps we could even grab a light dinner afterward before you go home. How does that sound?" His enthusiasm was genuine.
"Late afternoon suits me best. Just let me know when it's convenient for you." Alejandro said.
"I'm free tomorrow afternoon. Does that suit?" Thibodaux asked. They agreed to meet at the club and Alejandro took his leave. As he drove home, Alejandro continued to wonder about the reserve he sensed coming from Dr. Thibodaux. He was almost sure that the man was interested in him as more than a student, perhaps even more than a friend. All that had been kept under tight reign if true, but Alejandro trusted his instincts.
His mind wandered as he considered being in the gym environment with Thibodaux. What would he look like naked? Would he get in the whirl pool in the nude? Was he gay? Alejandro's fist slowly pumped his muscle as he brought himself to a delicious slow climax as he considered the next day.
Alejandro arrived a few minutes early. He reminded himself that as far as knowing `his' city he was a babe in the woods. His life and the circles with which he was familiar and comfortable were circumspect. They had been defined not only by family but by expectations of others. He vowed that would change, gradually albeit, but it would change.
He saw Dr. Thibodaux walking toward him and waved. In the locker room Dr. Thibodaux wasn't in the least uncomfortable with his nudity. Alejandro finally got to look at this mystery man. A few inches over 6' he had a classic swimmers build. Muscles in his arms were long and defined, not bunched up like a body builder. His chest was sculpted by miles of breast strokes, his abs defined. They moved gracefully under his skin with each turn of his body. He was nearly hairless except for his pits and pubes which were the same color as his hair and were trimmed.
The thighs and calves were swimmers muscles. Like his torso, they were sculpted and sinuously long. Thibodaux bent down to retrieve something from his bag. Alejandro was surprised when he saw his quads flex. They looked like flesh enclosed steel bands. Letting his mind wander a split second, Alejandro wondered what they'd feel like scissored around him as he fucked the good Doctor. Shaking himself back to reality he hurriedly finished changing.
On the racquetball court, Thibodeaux handed him goggles and a racquet. Methodically he began beginner's drills. Wasting few words, he demonstrated and then made Alejandro repeat the action until it was correct. When he'd gone through the basic rules and rudimentary strategy of ball placement on the opposing and parallel walls they began their first game.
It was a beginner's game. Alejandro compared it to sparing with Jason. Practice a move. Practice a defense. Put it in context. Repeat. Laughing about the comparison to himself, he kept working at returning the seemingly endless volleys that came his way.
It was hard work, even for someone in good shape. He understood how Thibodaux stayed trim and fit. Alejandro found that he liked the game. Thibodaux' coaching style was perfect for Alejandro. He only hoped he'd bring enough of a game to the teacher so that he'd be invited to play again.
They were both wringing wet when a buzzer sounded and startled Alejandro.
"Our hour is up and likely there are people ready for this court. You did very well for a first timer, unless you're sandbagging and have played before." Thibodaux said.
"To answer your challenge to my integrity," Alejandro said with a smile, "This is the first time I've ever done anything like this, save years of tennis. Whew, I'm nearly whipped. This is faster than tennis by far."
"That explains your excellent eye hand coordination. You likely will make a good player if you'd like to continue training. What do you say?" Thibodaux asked.
"I'd enjoy it if it won't encroach on your court time. It will be a long time before I can offer you a game." Alejandro responded.
"I do this for exercise as well as for sport. Don't worry, I'll get in game time with other experienced players who will likely clean my clock as well as give me a good workout. Ready to cool down?" the Doctor asked.
Alejandro wiped his face with the back of his arm and nodded. Together they headed back to the locker room and a tepid shower to gradually cool off. Alejandro noticed that Thibodaux didn't pay specific attention or `look' at him; but, from time to time he let his gaze fall to take in all of Alejandro's body.
"Did you bring any swim gear?" he paused, "Did you hear me?" Thibodaux was looking at Alejandro.
"Sorry my mind wandered. What did you say?"
"I asked if you brought swim gear, not that it's needed here. Would you like to do some laps?" Thibodaux asked. "If you don't care to dress, we can go to the pool from here." He said as he gestured toward a door in the shower wall.
"I'm good like I am." Alejandro saw a slight smile on Thibodaux face appear and disappear as quickly. "I'll follow you."
There were only a couple of people doing laps so they were able to have their own lanes side by side. Thibodaux kept a steady pace for them. Alejandro stayed close knowing he was stroking appreciably faster due to his shorter arms and legs. His lungs were burning. His legs and arms felt like rubber before Thibodaux stopped. Smiling, he asked if Alejandro had had enough.
Only able to nod his head, Alejandro hoisted himself to the pool deck, noticing that his arms quivered at the effort. `Damn, he thought. What a workout'! They sat quietly, both catching their breath.
"The cure for that torture is the whirlpool. Ready to fend off the cramping of sore muscles?" Thibodaux asked and seeing Alejandro nod yes, led the way to the steam and pool area.
Grabbing a couple of towels, they headed to the steaming cauldron of promised comfort. They eased in. Finding jets of warm bubbling water they both sighed. Alejandro knew he wanted to explore but was quite unsure if his subtle gestures would be noticed or welcomed. Deciding to play it safe, he only partially stretched his legs out in front of him.
Encountering nothing, he began to relax in earnest. Suddenly he felt Thibodaux' foot cross his. He pulled back as if he'd been shocked. Looking up he saw Thibodaux smile with the veiled look he'd seen in his eyes from time to time.
"No need to be startled. It happens frequently, particularly when the pool is full. Relax." Thibodaux said in a voice that sounded intentionally soothing. Alejandro decided to let this play out as it would. He leaned his head back and let his legs relax. For the next few minutes they talked of racquetball, art, their dinner plans. Their legs and feet touched often. Alejandro didn't try anything and waited to see if Thibodaux would. Nothing, oh well, Alejandro thought.
Several times during the easy conversation Alejandro saw the veiled look pass over Thibodaux face as he listened to Alejandro's response to a question. Luckily, Alejandro kept his muscle from erecting and soon it was time to shower and go.
After dinner, Alejandro drove home. They agreed to play again the next afternoon. Puzzled, Alejandro kept thinking about the veiled look that he'd seen several times. As he stopped in the drive behind the house, he determined that to worry it would solve nothing. Best not to think on it too much he decided. That didn't stop him from masturbating with the images of the nude Doctor running through his mind.
The spring season of boards and foundation meetings was mercifully light. Alejandro and his attorney mapped out a schedule. Letters were sent advising that Alejandro would be coming instead of his father. With adequate time to schedule travel, Alejandro flew commercial airlines. Compared with charter flights, they were more time consuming and tiring.
The semester quickly drew to a close. Thibodaux had to be out of town the week of exams so Alejandro's final evaluation was his last hurdle. On his return, Thibodaux arranged a time at the Institute for their final session and had agreed to let Alejandro host him at dinner as a token of appreciation. The exam was one question, a question impossible to answer thoroughly. Alejandro was puzzled and attempted to begin framing his response.
Thibodaux interrupted him. "It is truly a beautiful day. Instead of sitting here, let's enjoy a stroll as we discuss your thoughts." It became a conversation that covered all the areas Alejandro had studied. It carried on through dinner, coffee and dessert.
Dr. Thibodaux sat quietly smiling, looking at Alejandro as he continued talking as they finished their coffee. Finally Alejandro stopped, realizing that Dr. Thibodaux wasn't saying anything, didn't intend to say anything. Looking at Dr. Thibodaux he said, "What!?" with some exasperation. "What are you smiling about?"
"With a bit of polishing and some focus you could have easily defended a Masters Thesis with that answer. Well done!" Alejandro felt both pleased and deflated. He realized that this might well be the end of what had become something he truly looked forward to.
Hesitant at hearing an answer he would not like, he knew it was best finished tonight if this was to be the end of their relationship. Extending his hand across the table he said, "Dr. Thibodaux, this has been one of the most enjoyable courses I've had thus far at the University. Not only have I enjoyed our discussions but have enjoyed having an opportunity to become better acquainted with you." Shaking Thibodaux' hand he sat waiting.
"Well Mr. Algara, I believe this brings down the curtain on our roles as student and teacher. I must admit it has been awkward at times, simply because I felt you were a kindred spirit but it was not the time or place to explore that possibility. If it would suit you, I hope we can continue meeting, talking about art, enjoying games of racquetball and getting to know one another on a more personal level."
Alejandro felt foolish. He knew he was smiling like a child opening a gift. "I'd like that very much."
"If I may make one request," Thibodaux asked. "Can we drop the title? If you will, call me Charles."
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Ps. Any of you guys who are wrestlers, if you are interested in being a beta reader for this story, drop me a line.