I had invited my good friends over for breakfast before they took off for home. After breakfast, I gave each of them their Christmas presents. They didn't linger after the gifts were opened as they all had to be on the road. I asked Justin to stay and help after the guys left because I wanted to be there when he open my gifts. I still cared for Justin and wanted to spend some time with him alone. After we cleaned up and loaded the dishwasher, we took our coffee into the living room and sat by the tree.
"You have been a super guy, Justin, and my feelings toward you will never change. I'll always cherish your friendship and the tender moments we've had together. I know it's not been easy for you, but I wanted you to know how I felt. You were my first partner and I know from experience how painful a one-sided love relationship can be. That was the only reason I broke it off."
I reached under the tree and took out three gifts and handed them to Justin. "Please accept these gifts as a token of my friendship."
Justin opened the first box. It was a silk lounging robe with matching boxer shorts. The second gift was a steel and gold Movado wrist watch. The last box held a hundred dollar gift certificate for a dinner for two at the Black Angus Restaurant.
"Thanks, Jarv, this is so generous of you. You have a big heart, baby. I'm sorry it didn't work out between us. I will always treasure your friendship and will never forget you. How could I ever forget a beautiful boyfriend like you?"
"Thanks, Justin. I thought you might like to showcase that good looking body of yours to that special person in your silk outfit. The gift certificate is for a romantic evening for you and that special date. The watch is to make sure you're on time."
"This has been a truly joyful Christmas for me," Justin said. "Glen and I will be spending a glorious week together at his folk's villa in the Bahamas. We're engaged now and he is the most wonderful guy. I'm absolutely crazy about him. You know I never thought I could fall in love again after we split. I guess the chemistry was there from the first night you introduced us and I really want this to work for us. Glen has no hang-ups about making love with me; he only gets better each time. Of course he still has that hang-up with his family but we'll work that out in time, that's what I'm hoping for anyway. Again, thanks for everything. I must get going; Glen is picking me up in twenty minutes. We have a long drive to Richmond ahead of us this afternoon."
"I hope you have a relaxing vacation with Scott," Justin said. "Take my advice for what it's worth, baby? If Scott wants to have sex with you, go for it. I've never had any regrets making love to you; it was a beautiful enjoyable experience for me. Sex is good, but it's even more satisfying when you're having it with the person you love."
I found a large shopping bag for Justin's gifts and helped him on with his coat. I took him in my arms and squeezed him tightly and kissed him on the forehead. "Merry Christmas, Justin, and give my best wishes to Glen."
"You're really a super person, Jarv, and I know you'll find true happiness one day, just be patient. Jarv, for what it worth, you were my first love and will always be in my heart."
Justin's parting was so touching that I burst into tears after he left. Had I made a mistake letting him go? I felt closer to him now than I ever did before. I felt so alone. On the other hand I was happy for Justin and Glen. They were two great guys and deserved happiness. I guess I was feeling lonely and wished I had a lover. I was not looking forward to my vacation with Scott, because I knew I would be back here in a week, alone, once again. I went into the bathroom and put a cold compress over my eyes.
I closed my suitcases and got ready to leave. After checking the apartment one last time, I closed the blinds and draperies, picked up my bags, set the alarm and left.
The holiday traffic on the New Jersey Turnpike, although heavy, kept moving at a steady pace until just before the toll booths at the Lincoln tunnel, and then it was bumper-to-bumper from there on.
I liked the scent from the new blazer I was wearing. It was one of the new jackets I had purchased last month. I needed a new wardrobe to make a favorable impression now that I was meeting with clients every week. Clothes made the man, and it was necessary to portray the image of the successful young executive. The rigorous physical fitness program I began in freshman year at Princeton had paid off. Now when I looked in the mirror, I could see the streamlined hard body of a well proportioned man.
I had always ignored the compliments people made about my good looks and often laughed at the account executives that wanted to use me to model their products. They often told him me I was a heck of lot better looking than any of the models they were using. Granted, I had keep up my tan year round and was blessed with a thick head of curly blond hair and clear hazel eyes. Sometimes I became uneasy with people staring at me, and broke out in laughter when girls whistled at me on campus. It was highly amusing and hard to take these things seriously. I only began to take it seriously after Scott and Bobbie both told me how handsome I was. So, I contacted the drama coach at Princeton and worked with him to polish up my image. That coach sent me to a speech coach who had me participate in the various college debating clubs to help break the ice. I felt much more self-confident and became at ease giving presentations.
It was three o'clock by the time I made it cross-town to Scott's apartment on the East Side. I smiled when I saw the small artificial tree sitting on the end table in Scott's living room. It was the one that we used in our old bedroom at home. We would decorate it together every Christmas. It brought back happy memories. The poinsettia plant was sitting in the middle of the dining room table. It looked fresh and healthy. I walked into the bedroom with the thought of taking a nap, until I noticed Scott's bags lying open on the bed. So, I hung up my coat and walked back to the living room where I slipped off my loafers and stretched out on the couch.
"Jarv! Jarv, wake up," Scott said. "It's time to leave."
I opened my eyes, "Wow, I fell sound asleep. Give me a couple of minutes to make a pit stop and grab my coat."
A few minutes later, I was back. "I'm ready; here, let me give you a hand with those packages," I said, as I walked over to grab the shopping bags.
"Just a minute, little brother", Scott walked over and hugged me. "Merry Christmas, Jarv, and thanks for the beautiful plant." He lifted my chin and kissed me tenderly on the lips. "That was for the beautiful roses." Letting go, he picked-up his bag, "Let's hit the road."
I shook my head and smiled, but said nothing.
We loaded the car and made small talk as I headed for the Queens-Midtown Tunnel. The traffic was bumper-to-bumper from the tunnel and on the Long Island Expressway. It finally opened up after we passed the Westbury turnoff.
"Did you have a nice Thanksgiving dinner with your future in-laws?" I asked.
"I was going to tell you about that fiasco the last time we talked, but you were so wound up, I thought it better to save it for another time."
"Thanksgiving Day with Margot's family ended up a complete disaster. It was doomed from the beginning. Margot neglected to tell me that it was a black tie affair for twenty-six guests. Needless to say, yours truly, was the only person not properly attired for the occasion. I was downright embarrassed and extremely uncomfortable for the entire afternoon. I know Margot was enjoying herself at my expense; she even made cute little jokes about my attire in front of the other guests. 'Well, darling, I just naturally assumed you would have packed your tuxedo.'
She didn't apologize for the embarrassment she caused me. Actually, it was really a blessing in disguise. I saw for the first time what a nasty bitch she could be. Can you imagine what life would be like married to her? I'd rather make it on my own than to be Margot's whipping boy. The thought of having to put up with her nonsense for the rest of my life, made me shudder. That's too high a price to pay for getting a practice. You and Bobbie were right, Jarv, she would have destroyed me."
"At that point, I had it with Margot and her family. After dinner and before everyone assembled in the drawing room to listen to a piano recital, I tried to take Margot aside to tell her I was leaving. But, as usual, she deliberately cut me off. That was the final straw as far as I was concerned. I packed my bag and scribbled a note and left it with the butler to deliver."
"Margot called several times after that and left messages with my service. Of course I never returned her calls. Finally, I called her the day she before she was leaving for Europe. After that conversation, she returned my engagement ring with a little note."
"It said, 'Scott, Here is your pitiful little ring, I don't want it as reminder of the big mistake I almost made. Funny, the diamond in your ring is the same size I had in a ring I wore as a young girl. I wish I could say it's been nice knowing you, but I can't.
Margot'."
"What did you say in your note to her?"
"I told her 'Goodbye, I pity the poor slob dumb enough to marry you.'," Scott said.
"God, that's wonderful news. You son-of-a-gun! Why did you let me go on about Margot when you had already dumped her? Some brother you are."
"I wanted to save it as a Christmas present. Anyway, you were so wound up the last time we spoke, I thought I'd let you blow off some steam."
"Well this is turning out to be a Merry Christmas after all," I said.
"I've already told the folks that I'm taking you to Atlanta with me tomorrow. I also let Mom know that we would be skipping Christmas dinner, since we had to leave at 2PM to catch our flight for Atlanta. Mom said she would arrange to have dinner at noon so we could all have Christmas dinner together. I thought that was sweet. You know her traditional dinner is always at five. I hope you don't mind if I hit the sack early tonight, Jarv, I'm really dragging. I've been on duty for twenty-four hours. Luckily, I was able to catch four hours sleep in the doctors' lounge early this morning. There is no way I'll be able to make it to midnight Mass tonight."
"I'm not in any better shape, sleep-wise," I said. "I hit the sack at nine last night and was up at 2AM this morning to finish off two projects before I could leave. Believe me; I wanted to crawl back to my bed at 8AM this morning. Unfortunately, I had my staff in for breakfast this morning. That little power nap at your place helped."
"Good, you can join me for the eight o'clock Mass tomorrow morning," Scott said. "How did your parties turn out?"
"Fantastic, it pays to spread a little money around. I picked up three new accounts at that party. That should keep me busy through next year. I was also invited to another high powered party where I have the inside track on a prize account. I've been invited to bid on the McCormack, Cunningham & Moore project. They are the major heavy industrial construction firm in New Jersey. Patty gave them such a glowing report about my work, that the VP of Marketing asked me to sit in on their next staff meeting."
"It seems that their client is about to build a five-story office building smack in the middle of Rolling Glen. That happens to be the playground retreat for the horse-set. The countryside is absolutely beautiful and has yet to be spoiled by land developers. The landed gentry weren't paying attention when two of the largest farms were sold to one buyer three years ago. Again, they didn't pay much attention when the new owner was granted a permit to add a new building on his land. Until, they discovered that building was a five-story office building. My job is to work with their Public Relations group to sell the idea to the community. It's a soft sell approach on how this project will benefit the community. They are paying me a nice up-front fee for a unique approach to smooth the ruffled feathers. Think about that, Scott. How many college seniors are given an opportunity like this? Do you know what it will do for my career if I win this contract? It means I will be welcomed in any agency of my choosing, besides the bundle I'll make on the contract."
"How much money would that be, little brother?"
"Between a quarter and half a million dollars."
"What!! How much have you made so far this year?"
"A little over eighty thousand."
"Unbelievable... the last time we talked, you said you would be lucky to break twenty thousand."
"That was true then, but I had something to prove. I took on anything that came my way and worked my ass off. But I did it. My clients think I'm the greatest thing since cold cereal and I've proven to myself that I have the talent and the drive to succeed in this business. It also taught me that you don't need a job with a major like Y&R to succeed in this business. I'll let you in on a little secret. Your little brother has no intention of letting any advertising agency keep me warming the bench until they're ready to give me a break. From now on I'm calling the shots. That's why it's so important to win that Cunningham & Moore account. Do you think a major agency would allow me to even touch this account? No way, baby. They hand it over to a senior level VP. I learned a lot working for Y&R all those years. You thought I was wasting my time sitting in on those brain storming sessions. Well, big brother, it taught me how the big boys work and the lesson wasn't wasted on me."
Scott shook his head and smiled, "I better stop calling you little brother. I don't think Dad is making the kind of money you're earning."
I smiled, "Times they are a changin', Scott, but you will always be my big brother, even if I earned a million dollars next year. I get a kick out of my accountant, Jules. He's going crazy because I made so much money in the last quarter. Jules worries a lot. I'm telling you that so you'll know who Jules is when he calls me at the Ritz. The first thing I plan to do is to reimburse the folks for my college tuition for this year, that should make Jules happy."
"Scott, I'm giving you a special combination Christmas and graduation present. I want your word that you won't mention this to the family?"
"If that's the way you want it," Scott said, "oh, by the way, you're the only one that knows that my engagement is off... what's the special gift?"
"I've purchased two round trips to St. Thomas, for the two of us. Everything has been prepaid. We will be staying at the Virgin Grand Hotel. Each trip is for seven days. I've booked the first trip for Spring Break if that's okay with you? I've left the second trip open; you let me know a good time. I figured this was the only way I could see you without having Margot around. At least you'll get to see me for two weeks next year."
"Jesus, that's a terrific gift. It must be costing a small fortune. I feel guilty accepting such an expensive gift."
"Consider it payback for all the times I free-loaded off you. I worked my tail off so I could do this for you. If you don't want St. Thomas, let me know."
"Are you crazy? St. Thomas is great! And I can't think of anyone I would rather be there with."
I laughed, "And there are no strings attached. I promise not to make a pass at you."
We turned onto our street. "Jarv, don't stop at the house, drive down to the Bay and park for a few minutes."
The parking area was deserted. I pulled up close to the sand. "It's really a beautiful night," I said. "Look at the moonlight dancing on the water; it could be downright romantic if it wasn't Christmas Eve."
"Jarv, I wanted you to stop because I need to talk about the last time we were together. We've always been close and I felt depressed when you poured you heart out to me. Frankly, it made me feel uncomfortable. And it's wasn't because you are a gay. It was because I didn't know how to respond to you emotionally. When you left me that Sunday night, I felt very alone and depressed. I realized that everything bright and beautiful had walked out the door. For the first time in my life I realized what you meant to me. You had unlocked a door deep inside me that I had repressed for a long time. Weren't you surprised when I kissed you tonight?" Scott asked.
"A little, but you've always been spontaneous in your affections. Tonight wasn't any different; you acted as if it meant nothing more than your holiday spirit."
"You're wrong, Jarv. I've finally gotten my head together. Your friends were right about me all along; I was giving you mixed signals. You made me realize something else that weekend. I liked holding you in my arms and I wanted to make love to you both times. It's one thing to experiment with sex as boys, but it means quite another thing when you're turned on by another man. I had planned to tell you exactly how I felt when we arrived in Atlanta, tomorrow, but I can't wait any longer. When I saw you sleeping in my apartment tonight, I knew we had to talk tonight."
"I'm in love with you, too, Jarv. You have been driving me crazy with desire for the last two hours and I can't wait any longer. I want to hold you and make out."
"Oh, God, I can't believe this is happening to me, this is wonderful," I said, as I leaned over and kissed Scott passionately. "You've made me so happy. You couldn't have picked a better day to tell me. Christmas Eve has always been a very special day for me and it's only fitting that I should be proposed to on this day. One thing for sure, we'll never forget our wedding anniversary."
Scott laughed heartily, "Jarv, you are truly the light of my life and so refreshing." He kissed me passionately on the lips, the eyes and the neck. "God, you smell delightful. Now, my sweet baby, you can take us home. Remember, no display of affection in front of the family."
"You know, it took all my self control not to make love to you in my apartment this afternoon," Scott said. "After I finished packing, I sat and watched you sleep for ten minutes before I woke you. I've been in counseling for months now. It's taken that long to sort everything out in my own mind. I marvel at your strength. I could never keep my emotions under control for one day, let alone three years. If I wasn't on service at two other hospitals on Long Island, I would have driven over to Princeton. At the same time, I was racking my brain to find an excuse to break my engagement with Margot without causing a big scene. God was smiling down on us, Jarv, because Margot handed me the way out Thanksgiving Day.
"God, you're beautiful, Jarv. You've become even more beautiful since the last time I saw you, if that's possible. Bobbie was right on the money when she said you were the most handsome man she had ever met. To me, you're the most affectionate, selfless person I have ever known. I hope you'll forgive me for proposing to you here. I promise I'll make it up to you over the next fifty years.
"Forgive you?!! Why would I forgive you for making this the best Christmas ever? You're my lover and that's all I care about." I took Scott's hand and held it as I drove home.
We pulled into the driveway and around to the back of the house. Our three sisters burst out the back door and ran to greet us. They hugged and kissed each of us, then helped to carry the presents into the house, while Scott and I carried our overnight bags inside. Our parents hugged us as we walked through the door.
"It's wonderful to have you two home for Christmas," Mom said. "Bobbie called to say that she and Dan were running a little late."
"That's okay, Mom," Scott said, "We'll take our bags up to our room and change."
"Don't be shocked when you see your old bedroom, boys, Sarah has taken it over. I hope you don't mind sleeping together in a queen-size bed for one night?"
"No problem, Mom, as long as we have the bathroom to ourselves," I replied.
"That's what I thought," Mom said. We carried the bags upstairs to our old bedroom. I opened my bag and took out my shaving kit, then hung the garment bag in the closet.
Meanwhile, Scott closed the blinds and locked the door. He took me in his arms and just held me. He whispered, "I love you, baby. It's only fitting that we should spend our first night as a couple in our old bedroom."
I put my arms around Scott's neck and kissed him, deeply probing my tongue into his mouth. "I never realize you were such a romantic."
"Jarv, my love, we've got to stop right now," Scott said. "My penis is reaching a critical stage; I know I'll blow my load if we keep this up. I sure hope I can stay cool until tomorrow evening. I think we should both sleep with condoms on tonight, we don't want any accidents on Sarah's bed sheets."
I laughed, pulling away, "Why don't you pretend I'm Margot? That should shrink junior down to a nubbin. You're a doctor; can't you take a tranquilizer to calm yourself down?"
Scott smiled, "Listen to you, we're not married an hour and you're already turning ugly. If I took a pill, little brother, I'd fall asleep and be out for the rest of the night, is that what you want?"
"Forget the pill," I said. "Now that you're mine, I'm going to make you pay for all the years I laid alone longing for your touch. March yourself into the bathroom and don't come out until you have junior under control."
I smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "All kidding aside, you've made me very happy tonight. One more day is little to pay for the lifetime of happiness ahead of us. It's a wonderful feeling to realize that you're mine at last. I'm going downstairs and put our gifts under the tree. A curious thought; after the family learns were married, do we begin giving one gift from the two of us?"
"I'm going to let you ponder over that one, baby," Scott said. "I'll do whatever your little heart desires. How you can even think that far in advance is beyond me? I'm on cloud nine, and I may just stay there for the rest of the night."
"I'm glad I married a doctor, Mother always said they're very level headed and down to earth. Thank God, you don't fit that mold. By the way, this is not a black tie dinner tonight, don't dress-up and show off."
Scott chuckled, "See you downstairs, as soon as I have that talk with junior."
The folks were in the living room having a cocktail when I walked in with four shopping bags filled with Christmas presents.
"Mom, would like me to put these gifts under the tree?"
"That will be fine, dear. My, how pretty the gifts are wrapped. Come sit next to me on the sofa when you're finished, dear. It's not that often I have a chance to hold hands with my son. You look good, maybe a little tired, but healthy. Did you have a busy week?"
"It's been a busy quarter," I replied. "I've been up since early this morning finishing up a special project that had to be delivered to my client before I could take off for the holidays. Scott has just finished a twenty-four-hour shift himself. We're both going to hit the sack after opening our gifts tonight. Sorry we have to skip midnight Mass with you guys. We plan to catch the eight o'clock Mass in the morning then swing by the cemetery on the way back from church. Bobbie said she may join us."
"Thank you for those beautiful poinsettia plants, dear. That was very thoughtful of you. The florist also delivered the two Christmas wreaths you ordered for the graves. I left them outside, by the back door."
"Here is my other handsome boy, come sit next to me, Scott," Mom said.
Scott kissed her on the cheek and sat.
"Aren't I the lucky one, three handsome men all to myself?" she said. "Tell me, Scott, how is Margot? I haven't heard a word from her in over a month?"
"I doubt you ever will again," Scott replied. "The engagement is off. Margot and I broke up Thanksgiving Day."
"Do you feel like talking about it, Scott," Dad asked, "or, is it too upsetting?"
"It was a lot of little things that added up to a bad situation, Dad. When Jarv and Bobbie were so set against Margot, I began to look a lot deeper at our relationship. That's when I began to see Margot in a different light, and I didn't like what I saw."
Scott related the Thanksgiving incident. "That ended it right there, forever. We were fond of each other, but it takes love and mutual respect to make a marriage work."
Mother squeezed his hand, "You made the right decision, dear. I don't think you would have been happy married to Margot. You'll know when the right person comes along."
"Would you boys like a cocktail or a glass of wine before dinner?" their father asked."
"Wine for me, Dad," I answered.
"The same for me, thanks," Scott said.
"I think it was so nice of you to take Jarv with you to Atlanta," Mother said. "It will be like old times again. I'm glad you two have remained close. Your father and I are very proud of you boys. You have never given us one minute of heartache. She squeezed their hands and gave each a peck on the cheek. If you gentlemen will excuse me, I'd better round up the girls and see about dinner. I'm sure your sister will be in any time now.
"Tell me, Jarv," his Dad said, "have you had any responses back from the companies you sent your résumé to?"
"I've gotten several favorable responses back. As a mater of fact, I have three interviews scheduled for March. Y&R offered me a job already. I've been thinking about looking at openings outside of the New York market. I just might consider looking at a smaller more creative agency also. If I decide to go with a smaller agency, or take a job with one of the majors in their regional offices, I think I'll move up the ladder much faster. Madison Avenue is like playing with the majors. It's harder to get a chance at bat. I'd be warming the bench too long before I got a chance to play."
"Scott has asked me to share an apartment with him in Atlanta if he decides to go with Emory Medical. Atlanta is a key market and the hub for the Southeast. It's also a growing market region. The research department at Y&R considers it a major growth market. All the top agencies already have regional offices there. I'll have a better chance to grow in that market."
"Well, I see you're on top of things as usual, Jarv. That would be great if it works out for you two."
"A car just drove in, that must be Bobbie and Dan," Dad said. "I'll go see if they need any help."
After Mom and Dad left, Scott said, "You are one cool dude. You've chosen the right business with that creative mind of yours, sweetheart. That was the smoothest piece of maneuvering I've ever seen. You're smooth, now everything will appear perfectly normal when we start living together in Atlanta. Good old dad will run interference for you; I've got to hand it to you."
Scott smiled as he stared into my eyes. "Why do I feel that you've had me wrapped around your little finger since the day I walked into this house fourteen years ago?"
"You're right, you really didn't have a chance. I've had fourteen years to brainwash you and it finally worked. You heard what Mom said, we've got to stick together, and I've always been an obedient son. Let's see if they need any help."< /P>
We walked back to the kitchen. "So this is where the action is," I said.
Bobbie rushed over and gave us each a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
"Merry Christmas, you two," Bobbie said. "The traffic was horrendous all the way here."
"Where did you leave Dan?" Scott asked.
"He's outside with Dad unloading the car," Bobbie said.
"I'll go out and give them a hand," Scott said, heading for the door.
"I'm dying to change and get out of these shoes," Bobby groaned. "We both got stuck at the office and we didn't want to waste time going back to the apartment to change. So we headed straight here. When did you guys get here?"
"About a half hour ago," I replied.
"I'd kill for a glass of wine right now," Bobbie said.
"No need for that, come with me," I said. "I've discovered where Dad hides the good stuff."
I put my arm around Bobbie's waist and led her into the living room. I poured us both a glass of wine, and raising my glass, made a toast. "To the most beautiful lady in the world, and I hope Santa brings you everything you've asked for."
Bobbie hugged me and kissed my cheek. "You're sweet, thanks for that well delivered compliment. You look very smart and chipper, what's on the agenda for tonight?"
"Scott and I are skipping midnight Mass. We're dead on our feet and plan to hit the sack after the exchange. We're going to catch the eight o'clock Mass tomorrow morning, then swing by the cemetery after church, as planned. Let me know if you change your mind about joining us?"
"I'm going with you guys, you know I'll fall asleep at church after a couple of glasses of wine. Dan's the night owl in our family and loves midnight Mass, so he can go with the rest of the family. I'm not into a sing along in the middle of the night anyway. Thanks again for that beautiful plant."
Scott came in into the room carrying two large bags of Christmas gifts. "Dan took your bags up to your bedroom," Scott said. "He said he was going to change."
After dinner, the men retired to the living room. Dad served everyone a glass of his special Christmas punch. The ladies joined us a little later.
"Now that everyone is together," Dad said, "I have an announcement to make regarding Scott. Scott and Margot broke off their engagement and will not be getting married. I thought you should all know in case you were rushing out to buy a wedding gift. Now, that that's over with, I'll start passing out the presents."
The discarded wrapping paper was piled high by the time all the gifts were opened. I went out to the kitchen and came back with three large trash bags and stuffed them full with the discarded wrappings. Then, I hauled them out back.
Returning a few minutes later, I announced, "Well, folks, I hate to be a party pooper, but I'm about to fall asleep. If you'll excuse me I'm calling it a night. Merry Christmas to all, and good night. See you at breakfast."
"The same goes for me," Scott said.
We kissed Mom and the girls, hugged Dad and headed upstairs to bed. I used the bathroom first and crawled into bed. I was drifting off to sleep when Scott climbed in next to me and took me in his arms and kissed me.
"Good night my beautiful spouse," Scott whispered in my ear. "I love you, Jarv. Now turn over on your side and go to sleep."
"I love you too, Scott. You've made me very happy tonight. God has answered my prayers. Merry Christmas, my love."
I turned on my side and pushed myself back toward Scott. He pulled me close, wrapping his arms around me. We were both so tired that we fell asleep in a matter of minutes.
The alarm woke us at seven. I kissed Scott, and said, "Time to get up, sweetheart," as I headed for the bathroom.
"Merry Christmas, Baby," Scott said. "I could use another five hours of sleep."
I had brushed my teeth and was finished shaving when Scott stumbled into the bathroom, still half asleep. I already walked into the stall shower and was rinsing off the soap when I felt Scott's body pressing against me. His strong hands were roaming over my golden skin, sliding down my muscled chest, pausing to pinch my firm nipples. His hand continued to slide down my firm stomach to my erection. I let out a small moan of pleasure as Scott began pumping my penis and caressing my testicles.
Scott was kissing my neck and nibbling on my ear, sending waves of pleasure throughout my body. I could feel Scott's rock hard penis sliding in and out between my legs, exciting me even more.
I pulled away from Scott and knelt in front of him and took his penis in my mouth. I wanted to taste his sperm. I lubricated my finger and inserted it in Scott's rectum and massaged his prostrate. He was moaning softly as he got close to an orgasm. "Jarv, baby, I'm coming." I could feel Scott's muscles contract and his testicles pulled up tight against his body. I felt the first blast of fluid hit the back of my throat. Swallowing, I continued sucking him until he pulled away. Scott reached under my arms and pulled me up into his arms and kissed me passionately.
"Oh, God, that was wonderful," he said. "Now it's my turn to drink your essence." He knelt down in front of me and sucked on my penis. My dreams were coming true before my eyes. All those years of dreaming of Scott overwhelmed me. I couldn't control the sustained orgasm. The feeling was so intense I almost blacked out. When I came around, I was in Scott's arms and crying.
"It's all right, baby, you cry all you want," Scott said. "You've waited a long time for this moment."
After recovering, I shampooed his hair, and then soaped our bodies. I looked up and grinned, "I married a hot stud," I said. "See, junior is loaded and ready to go again. Maybe I should give him a blast of cold water to cool you off?"
"Don't you dare, I can't help it if you have that effect on me? I want to make love to you again, and again. I want to hold you in my arms and never let you go, I absolutely adore you."
Scott held me close and we kissed tenderly again. After we dried each other, I made him sit on the stool while I dried and styled his hair. He spread his legs and pulled me to him. He ran his hands lazily up and down my smooth skin. He smiled when he saw the effect of his actions.
"Look what you've done," I said, "you've given me another erection." I kissed Scott, "Now get out of here and put some clothes on, before I change my mind and make love to you again."
I dried and fixed my hair and returned to the bedroom walk-in to dress.
Scott was dressed and had stripped the bed. He tidied up the room while I got ready to go.
"I've been saving this gift for last," I said when I was done. "In view of our betrothal last night, you can consider this your wedding present." I handed Scott a small wrapped package.
Scott removed the paper and opened the jeweler's box. "This is beautiful, Jarv." He removed the medal and chain and read the inscription on the back and smiled, "Thank you, baby. Here, you put it on me."
I slid the gold chain over Scott's head and snaked it under his tie and shirt. He buttoned the shirt and straightened his tie. When he finished, he kissed me tenderly and pulled me close to him. "I'm yours forever. Always remember that, Jarv."
"I always will," I said. "I understand you come with a lifetime guarantee. Now, turn me loose, you've made me hot again. We'd better cool it, Bobbie is waiting for us."
Bobbie was reading the newspaper in the living room when we reached the front hall. "Merry Christmas," she said.
"Merry Christmas, Bobbie," we both replied together. "Let's leave by the back door so I can load the wreaths in the trunk," I said.
The eight o'clock Mass was packed, but the usher found room for us in separate pews. The sermon was short, but the Communion took much longer. Most of the congregation received Communion, as we did. Mass was over in less than an hour. I drove us to the cemetery to lay the wreaths on our parents' graves. Scott placed one on his mother's grave, while Bobbie and I placed one on our father's grave. The two grave sites were nearby. Bobbie and I said the rosary together for our father.
"You look more like Dad every day," Bobbie said. "Your voice, your manner and your handsome good looks, everything about you reminds me of Dad. He would have been proud of the way we all turned out."
"I know you've heard this all before, little brother, but I think you're gorgeous. I know you pooh-pooh this kind of sentiment, but it happens to be true. I could not take my eyes off you this morning, Jarv, you're beautiful. Men are not supposed to look that good; it's bad for us girls. I'm not the only one that thinks so either; I saw how other people in church were stealing looks at you. Believe me, honey, I'm not saying this because you happen to be my brother either. You've inherited the striking good looks from both Mom and Dad."
"I wanted you to know how I feel and in case I haven't mentioned it before, I love you and I'm happy to have you for a brother. Take your time to find your Mister Right, and for God's sake, stop wasting your time on a guy who doesn't know you're alive. You've got a lot going for you, Jarv."
"Now that's all the sentimental stuff you're going to hear from me until next time. Let's walk over and see if Scott's ready to leave."
"Thanks, Bobbie, you sure know how to make a guy feel great," I said. "It's good to know that you still love me. You know I love you and I was very concerned how you would react to my being gay. Evidently, my lover happens to agree with you, because we're a couple now. I feel that a great stone has been lifted off my back and I'm extremely happy. This is the best Christmas I've ever known. I've never been so happy. It's been both the most difficult and the most satisfying one I have ever known in my life. I want to tell you everything, but it's going to have to wait until I get back from Atlanta. In fact, I will be happy to bring my spouse over to have dinner with you and Dan."
"I'm so happy for you, Jarv, this is wonderful news," Bobbie said. "I'm dying to know who he is, but, I'll never forgive you if don't keep your word when you get back. Does Scott know about this?"
"Yes, we plan to discuss it more on vacation."
Bobbie did not miss the looks they were getting from Scott. His feelings for his mother hadn't changed after all these years and he has always felt depressed after visiting her grave.
We walked up next to Scott. "Are you ready to leave?" I asked.
"Yes, I'm ready. I was waiting for you guys to finish," Scott said.
"Isn't Jarv's news terrific?" Bobbie asked. "The little twerp won't even tell me who the guy is, or, any of the good juicy stuff." She smiled, "Classic Jarv, he keeps you hanging in the wind until he's good and ready, don't you agree, Scott?"
Scott laughed, "I thought you would have had an arm lock on him by now."
"I would have if we weren't in a cemetery," Bobbie said. "But, I made him promise to bring his spouse around for dinner when he gets back."
Scott laughed and got in the middle between Bobbie and me and rested an arm on each shoulder. "Thanks for ordering the wreath, Jarv," Scott said as he squeezed my shoulder. "
"You're welcome; I knew you wouldn't have time.
"Dumping Margot was the second smartest thing you've done in a long time," Bobbie said. "There's hope for you yet, Scott."
"I've always been a sucker for a loaded question," Scott said. "What is the smartest thing I've ever done, that is, in your flawed judgment?"
"Taking the kid with you to Atlanta," Bobbie said. "You may be a brilliant doctor and all that, but you're a rotten judge of people. At least with a serious guy like Jarv around, you just may survive from the clutches of another vulture like Margot. You really need a keeper, Scott."
"You're right, of course. I couldn't find a better keeper to live with," Scott said. "It's going to be like old times again, right, Jarv?"
"Even better," I said.
"I don't know about you guys, but I'm starved," Bobbie said. "Let's head back to the old homestead and feed our faces."
Everyone was sitting around the dining room table having breakfast when we returned.
"Everything smells divine, Mom," I said. "I didn't know how hungry I was until I walked into the house."
"Don't eat too much," she said, "We'll be sitting down to dinner in three hours."
"Dan and I are going to drop by Shirley and John's after breakfast, Mother," Bobbie said, "I promised them we'd drop by to exchange gifts this morning. We should be back in plenty of time to help you with dinner."
"Take your time, dear, your sisters and I have everything under control."
"How did you and Jarv sleep last night, Scott," Mother asked? "Was Sarah's bed comfortable enough for you two?"
"It was fine, we both fell sound asleep the minute our heads hit the pillow," Scott said. "We were dead to the world until that alarm went off at seven this morning."
"I'm sure you'll be glad to say goodbye to Bellevue. Am I right, Scott?"
"You bet. It may be a wonderful training ground for interns, but the area and those old buildings are a disaster. The crime rate in extremely high around there."
"It hasn't changed that much since I interned there; they threw every kind of case at you. I'll tell you one thing, I learned a lot under those conditions. I've never regretted training there."
Bobbie and Dan excused themselves and left. Mother stood up and began clearing the table. We all took our cues and helped clear the table. Scott and Dad took off leaving Mother and I to finish up.
After we straightened everything up, I said, "Mother, would you like to take a little stroll with me?"
"That would be nice, dear, I could use the fresh air," she said. "Let me get my coat and put some lipstick on, then we can go."
I stuck my head into the library to let Dad and Scott know that we were going for a walk.
"It turned out to be a beautiful Christmas Day," Mother said, "It's nice to have you all home for Christmas dinner. Bobbie told me how well you're doing with your free-lance work. It seems you inherited your father's creative talent. He was a wonderful man, Jarv, and I know if he were alive he would be as proud of you as I am."
"Thanks, Mom. There's something you should know about me."
"Let me make it easy for you, son. If it's about your being a homosexual, I already know."
"Did Bobbie tell you?"
"No. I already arrived at that conclusion some time ago, dear. You forget I'm a doctor, and your mother. It's my job to know all about my children. I knew you would share this with me when you felt the time was right. In any event I was ready to step in if I thought you needed my help. You're an intelligent young man and you would find your way and seek out the right advice. Who else knows?"
"Bobbie and Scott."
"I'm glad you took Scott and Bobbie into your confidence about this. It will be easier for you now that we know. We're a close-knit family and I tried to raise you all to be tolerant of other people. For the present, I don't think it would serve any purpose to mention this to your younger sisters, unless of course they bring up the subject."
"Does dad know I'm gay?"
"Yes dear, we've discussed this some time ago. I'm delighted that you and Scott will be living together in Atlanta. I love Scott dearly, but he is so cavalier when it comes to women. He could easily find himself in another situation like Margot, if he's not careful. You have no idea how relieved I am that he is not marrying Margot. A marriage of convince is one thing, but there must be mutual respect between a couple. Margot wants a man she can control. Thank God Scott realized this before it was too late."
"You're very level headed, Jarv. You have a better insight into people than Scott. He's too quick to take people at face value. He respects your judgment and will take your advice. Granted it takes him a little while for it to sink in, but in the end, he will come around and will do the right thing. I'm glad to see you're in better spirits now, I felt something was troubling you when you were here for Thanksgiving.
"You're right, Mom. I've had a rough time for the last few months. I was under a lot of pressure then. I broke up with my roommate and moved into a new apartment, and was up to my eyeballs in work."
"Well, I'm happy everything has worked out for you."
When we returned to the house, Scott and his father were still in the library. It had been a while since they had one of their serious father/son chats. Scott and his dad had finished discussing his financial situation and agreed on the amount he would need for his postgraduate studies.
"Dad, what was your reaction when you learned that Jarv was a homosexual?
"I was very surprised when your mother initially broached the subject several years ago. I've always felt that Jarv was the epitome of the all American boy. He was an outstanding student athlete and was well liked in school. I observed him for some time for any telltale signs that would confirm your mother's suspicions, but I couldn't find anything wrong with Jarv. I began to think that your mother was wrong. I guess I'm guilty of stereotyping homosexuals. When I think of a homosexual, I immediately picture the outlandish men that parade through the city on gay pride day. I've learned that those men are a very small percentage of the homosexual population. Of course, your mother and I have attended several lectures on the subject and we have learned a lot."
"Bobbie confirmed what your mother had suspected. To my way of thinking, Jarv is the same fine young man I helped raise and I have no problems accepting him for what he is. Jarv has no choice but to accept what he cannot change and get on with his life. According to Bobbie, he's been carrying this around with him for years until he finally sought professional help. That's a terrible burden for a teenager to carry around alone. I'm surprised he was able to maintain his high grades with that hanging over him. I'm proud of Jarv and this has not changed the love I feel for him."
"Did you know he is in love?"
"Yes, Bobbie told us about that. Our only concern is this AIDS thing. Have you talked to him about the risks involved?"
"Yes, I have, Dad. Jarv is clean. You and Mom needn't worry on that score."
"Jarv told me he was gay four months ago," Scott said, "he also told me he was in love with me, and has been for the last three years."
"Good Lord, that must have come as a shock?"
"It did, but not for the reason you think. You cannot possible imagine what a stress filled weekend that was for both of us, and it changed both of our lives. That was the weekend I realized that I was in love with Jarv."
"What?!!"
"I'm sorry I had to break the news to you today, of all days. Yet I don't think there is ever a good time for this kind of news. I'm in love with Jarv, and we now consider ourselves a couple. You're the only one I've confided in. Jarv has no idea I'm telling you, and quite frankly, I didn't plan on telling you until later, but I felt that I had to tell you, Dad. I hope you will break the news to Mom, but to no one else until I talk this over with Jarv."
"Jarv already plans to tell Bobbie and Dan after we return from Atlanta. We don't intend to go public with this, as it could compromise our careers. I suppose we could have kept this from you and Mother until after I received my board certification, but we have never lied to you, and we don't want to start now. Anyway, knowing you and Mom, I know you would have figured it out sooner, or later. I didn't want you to get it second hand. We want you to visit us after we get settled in Atlanta.
"It sounds like you have already decided on Atlanta, then?"
"That's our thinking right now, unless something happens next week to change that. Emory would be the best place for us right now. Of course, Jarv said he will move to wherever I decide to practice."
"I'll tell you, Dad, when Jarv dropped this whole thing in my lap, I was stunned, to put it mildly. The homosexual part didn't bother me, as much as his being in love with me. We've always been close and I felt very depressed after Jarv told me how he felt. The most painful part for me was when Jarv told me he could not see me again, at least until his feelings toward me changed. That was when I discovered my true feelings for Jarv. I felt an emptiness that I had never experienced before when he walked out of my life that night. The same pain like I felt when Mom died. I saw his face before me in tears and I felt his pain. A strange feeling took control of me; it was an instant replay of our lives together. The joy of being with him, his warmth; everything about him made me realize how happy I was being with him. That is the reason I began seeing a Psychologist for counseling."
"I find it hard to believe that you're a homosexual," his father said. "You of all people. My God, you had quite a reputation of being a ladies man. You were the most sought after guy in high school and college; the girls used fight over you. You were even engaged to be married. Are you absolutely sure that this is what you want?"
"Yes, I'm absolutely sure. It's true; I was very popular with the ladies. I dated a lot of girls, but, it was rare that I bedded them. If I did, I never dated them again. Margot and I were not sexually compatible either. Our marriage was a business arrangement. I never was infatuated with any of the women I dated. I guess the women liked me because of my good looks and the way I treated them. At least that's what they told me."
"It was difficult to accept the fact that I'm gay. But, I'm fortunate to have found the love that has eluded me for so long."
"Don't feel that the Purdey line will die with me, because it won't. Jarv and I plan to have children after he becomes established and starts earning a living. Who knows, maybe it will be sooner, if Jarv continues at the rate he is going. It looks like I married a creative genius."
Dad smiled, "You two boys are full of surprises. If this is what you both want, then I wish you all the best in the world. Your mother and I have always marveled at the close bond you two had. You never fought like most siblings, who knows, maybe there was something there between you from the very beginning. His father chuckled, "At least there won't be any arguments with in-laws deciding which family gets to see you for the holidays."
"I think your mother will feel better now, knowing that Jarv is with you. I appreciate your telling me about this and I will be interested in hearing how everything turns out in Atlanta. I think we should see if your mother needs our help. I won't have a chance to talk to you again before you leave, Scott, but I want you to know I love you and I don't think any the less of you, or Jarv, just because you are gay. I will confess that this comes as a shock to me and it will take me time to adjust to your orientation."
Scott hugged his father. "I love you, Dad, thanks for your understanding."
After a delightful dinner, Scott and I finished packing and loaded the bags in the car. Bobbie offered to take our gifts to her apartment where we could pick them up when we returned from Atlanta.
"Jarv, could I see you a minute in the library?" Father asked.
"Sure, Dad," I said, following him into the library.
"Close the door, please, Jarv." He hugged me. "Congratulations on your marriage, Jarv. Scott has told me everything, I'm happy for the both of you. I want you to know that I love you, and I will always be here for you and Scott. Don't ever feel that you can't come talk to me if you have a problem."
"Your blessing means a great deal to me, Dad. In case I haven't told you lately, you're a super dad and I love you. Now, I better get out of here before I start bawling."