Brad's Search

[vater292]

^Agreed Craiger!

 

[72-Jay]

Good update, deff waiting for the next part when James comes back home


oh and reading this:

I subconsciously grab a pillow and hug it close to my body. I imagine him next to me, in my arms, and drift off to sleep.

LOL almost every night I grab the pillow, cuddle up with it & daydream of having a boyfriend to cuddle with before falling asleep (well that is til it gets to summer, when its too warm ..... just the thought of such when the temp is above 90 is eek )

 

[AstareGod]

Hey guys! Quite the discussion we have going on here!

I have the next two parts written out and the three after those storyboarded, so to speak. Hard to believe, but I'm catching up again. #26 should be posted sometime tomorrow, around the same time as yesterday, roughly.

Very nice update, can't wait to read the next part! I really like James and Brad together. Looking forward to how you progress with their time apart and when they are finally back together from James trip. I am also anxiously waiting for Brad to answer Erics question of Brad and James being official with a "Yes".

Yeah I have still never traveled by myself, well except work, but never a big trip like what you mentioned. Driving across country like you mentioned is something I have always wanted to do. (How long did that take?) Like you said I think you will get to see a lot more of the country and vastness of it.

When I visited New York I had pretty much the opposite of your trip to Seattle, it rained everyday. I still pretty much walked everywhere and was soaked most of the time, but it was fun and well worth the trip. I actually did a bike tour of Central Park, and it was awesome. While it was raining it was actually pretty warm so the rain felt nice.

Other than the Space Needle, anything that you think is indepenent of Seattle and a must see?

Thanks! I'm glad you and the others are looking forward to when the new parts come out. It's a big reason why I'm so motivated to write so much and keep the story going.

The trip, amazingly, took only 3 days. If you're going to drive across country, I strongly recommend taking longer - 4 days at the minimum. I went with my ex-boyfriend whom I'm still really good friends with, so the drive wasn't that boring, but the first day was pretty much nonstop driving for 31 hours, starting in Florida and ending in South Dakota. I would NOT recommend that, ever. Don't do it. I will never do it again. Thankfully we suffered no incidents on the way, and had a great time otherwise.

Sorry it rained for you in New York. I went there with my best friend one year (my first time there) and it rained heavily one day. It was miserable at the time, but he and I laugh about it now. The bike tour sounds great! I visited Central Park really quickly, but we were running around so much it was hard for me to enjoy it and take it all in.

I recommend the same for Seattle - leave yourself enough time to be able to take it all in and not feel like you're rushing. The Space Needle is almost a must-do due to how popular it is, but another lesser-known thing to do is the observation deck at Columbia Center which is more downtown. Their observation deck is inside and wraps around the building, so you can get great views of everything. It's a bit weird getting there, but their website has great directions. Other than that, Gas Works Park looked pretty neat, though I didn't have a chance to get that far. The Public Market at Pike Pl is must-do as well just because there is so much to see there. It all really impressed me. And if you'll be there for long enough, visit Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Forest if you're a nature fan.

I wish I could have taken another week to really soak up everything - a big reason why I'm dying to move, or at least visit again for a bit.

Gary and Harry are good choices for Brad to turn to this week. They'll keep him grounded.... Fortunately they both like James and are pobably wondering what's up.... Aren't memories wonderful? Their shower play can keep him happy for the week also. Great update, AG.

Craiger

Thanks, Craiger! Gary and Harry have always been the voice of good reason - well, except for that whole SNAFU with Kelly. But they mean well.

Good update, deff waiting for the next part when James comes back home

oh and reading this: LOL almost every night I grab the pillow, cuddle up with it & daydream of having a boyfriend to cuddle with before falling asleep (well that is til it gets to summer, when its too warm ..... just the thought of such when the temp is above 90 is eek )

Thanks! James won't be getting back quite as soon as the very next part, but I'll make sure not to prolong it too much. It's been getting pretty warm during the nights here in Mississippi, as well. I usually sleep naked, just like Brad and James, but during cold nights I throw on a t-shirt and boxer briefs so I don't freeze my ass off. And sometimes I can't get to sleep, and I find grabbing a pillow helps, too.

 

[72-Jay]

And if you'll be there for long enough, visit Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Forest if you're a nature fan.

If I was ever up in that part of the country, those are the stuff I'd love to see

Thanks! James won't be getting back quite as soon as the very next part, but I'll make sure not to prolong it too much. It's been getting pretty warm during the nights here in Mississippi, as well. I usually sleep naked, just like Brad and James, but during cold nights I throw on a t-shirt and boxer briefs so I don't freeze my ass off. And sometimes I can't get to sleep, and I find grabbing a pillow helps, too.

I sleep naked (not even a sheet over me) in the summer (plus part of spring & fall). partly because its too warm for anything more & partly because I like sleeping naked LOL .. In winter its sweatpants & a long-sleeve shirt (plus a sheet & blanket or 2)

 

[vater292]

Yay, can't wait for the next part! Going to get to find out how well Brad handles his time away from James.

Also thanks for the list of things to check out in Seattle. All sound highly entertaining, I definitely like doing things outdoors so wouldnt mind checking out Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Forest. Its always fun checking out the various views from the top of buildings. Speaking of which, I dont know if you happened to do this or not, but if you go to New York agian I would recommend the Rockefeller Center. It has an awsome view of the City, but from what I have seen, one of the better views of Central Park.

 

[AstareGod]

If I was ever up in that part of the country, those are the stuff I'd love to see

I sleep naked (not even a sheet over me) in the summer (plus part of spring & fall). partly because its too warm for anything more & partly because I like sleeping naked LOL .. In winter its sweatpants & a long-sleeve shirt (plus a sheet & blanket or 2)

Yay, can't wait for the next part! Going to get to find out how well Brad handles his time away from James.

Also thanks for the list of things to check out in Seattle. All sound highly entertaining, I definitely like doing things outdoors so wouldnt mind checking out Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Forest. Its always fun checking out the various views from the top of buildings. Speaking of which, I dont know if you happened to do this or not, but if you go to New York agian I would recommend the Rockefeller Center. It has an awsome view of the City, but from what I have seen, one of the better views of Central Park.

Both of you mentioned doing outdoorsy stuff. Those two places are definitely only the tip of the iceberg. There is SO much to do in the outdoors in and around Seattle. So by all means, keep your eyes peeled for other things to do. Most likely something is on that list that'll pique your interest.

vater, I drove up to New York (state) to visit my best friend just this past December. We had gone to New York City the year before that and went to the top of the Empire State Building. This most recent time, we had planned to do the Top of the Rock because he said there are even better views from there. Unfortunately we were only there one night (instead of three like we did the year before) and ran out of time or the line to get in would have taken too long. Next time I get the chance to go to NYC, that's on my list of things not to miss.

I did happen to see a few photographs taken from the Top of the Rock which I think are absolutely beautiful. I'll try to track them down and post links here over the next few days.

- - - Updated - - -

Part 26

The sun shines brightly through my bedroom window as I open my eyes. It's late morning. I look to my left: no James. I didn't think I'd miss him this much.

I get out of bed and cook a quick breakfast. I finish up and call Harry to see what he and Gary are up to later.

"Hey Brad! Good to hear from you. How've you been?"

"Pretty good. James left yesterday for New York for a week. I was wondering if you and Gary were doing anything tonight."

"I don't have any plans. I don't think Gary does, either. You want to get together?"

"Sure. What time do you think would be best?"

"I have nothing going on, so whatever time works best for you works best for us."

"OK. I'm gonna go hit the gym and take care of some things here. How about we meet up for dinner?"

"Yeah, that sounds good."

"Awesome. See you later, then."

"All righty, Brad. Take care."

I take a quick shower. Even though I had taken one the night before, I have a thing about needing to shower after I've slept for any amount of time.

At work yesterday, I had run into a bit of a programming issue with my team. It's nothing substantial, but I feel I should probably brush up on some things so I'm better able to handle problems like that in the future. I head to the library, as they stock a big variety of books on the subject. It's on the way to the gym, so I bring my gym bag with me so I don't have to make another trip back home.

I get to the library and I peruse through the stacks and stacks of books and find some that should help. I sit and thumb through the pages for some ideas. After a couple of hours, I feel like I've gotten a good grasp of things, and grab my bag and head to the gym.

My gym is more of a combination spa and fitness center. It has lots of treadmills, elliptical machines, and weights, but it also has a running track, racquetball courts, and even a pool. In addition to all that, it also has gender-separated steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs, and showers. It's a place where you can work up a sweat and then get totally relaxed, all under the same roof.

I head into the locker room, choose a locker, and begin taking off my street clothes. When I've completely disrobed, I grab my gym clothes from the bag. I make sure to always wear a jockstrap when working out. I prefer wearing briefs for everyday clothes, but I enjoy the added support and lack of material of a jock. Plus, they frame the ass so beautifully. I pull on my jock, a pair of running shorts, socks, shoes, and a shirt, then head back out.

I stretch for a few minutes, take a sip of water from the water fountain, then run a few laps on the running track. I take a short break, sip some more water, then move on to the weights. After I lift in a few different muscle groups, I head back to the track and do a few more laps, then walk one lap to cool down.

I usually try to run at least two or three days a week, but I don't lift weights very often. I begin to feel a bit sore, so I decide to hit the sauna. I walk back to my locker, take off all my sweaty workout clothes, and grab a towel and head to the sauna.

It's pretty dead today; no other guys were in the locker room, and none are in the sauna when I get there. I pick a seat in the far corner, unwrap my towel, spread my legs, and lean back, supporting myself with my elbows and leaning my head back against the wall.

I think about the past few days I've had with James. I cannot believe how incredibly lucky I've been to have run into him again at the bar and how well he and I have gotten to know each other in such a short amount of time. I almost worry that things are moving too quickly, but it certainly doesn't feel that way. It's so easy to talk to him, and we very much enjoy spending time with each other. Nothing I've done or told him about has scared him off... yet.

I hear the door open, but I keep my eyes closed, not wanting to have the image of James wiped away.

"Hey, I know you!"

I crack one eye open, then I open both of my eyes very widely when I realize who it is.

Derek stands at the entrance to the sauna, naked, except for a towel covering himself. "Brad, right?"

"Yeah, that's me."

He hesitates for a few seconds, then speaks up. "Hey, I want you to know I'm sorry."

I'm a bit confused. "For what?"

"I thought you and James were together, and when you showed up at the deli with someone else, I thought you were cheating on him."

"Well, I'm not together with James - not yet, at least - so it wouldn't have been cheating anyway."

"I know, he told me. But still, it wasn't kosher of me to just assume something about someone I didn't know. So, I'm sorry."

I look at him for a few seconds and then shrug my shoulders. "Oh, OK. I guess I can forgive you."

He walks up to me, still in his towel, and reaches his hand to me. I shake it in the spirit of forgiveness.

"Thanks, that means a lot."

He turns around and walks to a seat opposite me. As he walks across the sauna, he slips off his towel and holds it in front of him so I have an unobstructed view of his ass - and what a nice, shapely ass it is. He climbs a few steps, turns to face me, and sits down on his towel.

It's silent for a few seconds, then Derek speaks up. "You seem like a pretty cool guy. Can I ask how you and James met?"

For the next few seconds, I contemplate opening myself up to someone who is pretty close to James and could potentially wreck anything that he and I have going. I then think about how James didn't really take him seriously before, so I figure, what's the harm?

"It was about a month ago. I was running in Volunteer Park, and he ran toward me to try to catch a Frisbee. He took a fall, and I helped him up."

"Really?"

"Yeah. It was totally random. I didn't see him again until I went to a bar, and he happened to be there and we got to know each other better."

"That's cool, man."

"So he tells me that you and he had gotten a bit friendly, too."

Derek starts to blush. "Yeah. He asked me out once. I'll admit, I had always been curious about what sex with a guy felt like. I'd always wanted to experiment, but didn't want anyone to find out and ride my ass about it, so to speak."

"What made you change your mind?"

"Moving here."

"Oh? Where did you live before?"

"Utah. I'm a Mormon."

That's the last thing I had expected him to say, and I just about cough up a lung. "Sorry."

"Nah, it's OK."

"So, 'am' a Mormon, as in present tense?"

"Yeah. It's mostly just a label now. I always felt a bit different as a kid. They - Mormons, I mean - try their best to get you married and having kids right out the gate. I didn't like feeling so rushed. I moved up here and felt much more at home."

"James had also mentioned you had a girlfriend. Is that true?"

"Yes, it's true. Still do, actually. I guess James told you quite a bit."

"Well, just that you were still together with her when you messed around with him."

"Yeah. I feel awful about it. I wasn't sure if I'd like messing around with guys, so I didn't want to throw away a great relationship with my girlfriend just to try out sex with a guy once and not like it. At least that's how I justified it to myself."

"Now, see, I can sort of understand where you're coming from. I don't think I could do that myself, but I can empathize with you."

"Yeah. Fortunately my girlfriend was very understanding. She found out about it and flipped out for a few days, but she grew to forgive me."

"What made her change her mind?"

"Well, James was the first guy I sucked off. I had never done it before, so he showed me a few things I could try with my tongue. Turns out they work just as well on a girl. I tried them out on my girlfriend, and that was the quickest she ever came. She asked where I learned that from, and I told her James taught me. So she is now kind of glad I fooled around with a guy, and she's a little more open about it. I've had threesomes with her and another dude, and I love what both sexes bring to the table."

"Huh. I never thought of it that way."

"So, you two aren't going out?"

"Well, we're dating, but we're not officially together yet. However, I do know about that thing he does with his tongue."

"Oh, so you have messed around together?"

"Yes, we have."

I see a tinge of jealousy in Derek's eyes.

"At least one of us gets to have him." He winks at me.

I get up to leave, and drape my towel around my waist. "Well, I think I've spent enough time in here."

"Heading out?"

"Yeah. Gonna take a quick shower and leave. I have some friends I'm meeting up with later."

"Cool. I won't be too much longer. How about I catch you after your shower and give you my number? You know, in case you wanted to hang out."

"Uh, sure. That sounds good."

"All right."

Derek and I shake hands again, and I head out of the sauna.

I toss my towel into my bag, grab a fresh one, and head to the shower area. Our showers are all in one big area, with virtually no separation between them and the main locker area. It's useful to keep a watch of your personal belongings, as well as the occasional attractive guy that changes into, or out of, his workout gear.

I hang my towel on a hook, choose a shower, and turn on the water. I quickly wash my hair and body, give myself a rinse, turn off the water, and dry off. I toss my towel over my shoulder and walk back to my locker, completely exposed. Too bad no one is in the locker room to enjoy it.

I grab a pair of clean briefs from my gym bag and put them on. I reach for my pants as Derek emerges from the sauna with his towel around his waist. I continue dressing as he gets nearer. He reaches his locker and pulls a card from his wallet. He walks over to me as I'm tying my shoes.

"Looks like I got out just in time. Here you go."

I take the card. "Thanks. You do seem like a good guy. Maybe I shouldn't have been so quick to judge you, either. You were thinking of James, after all."

"Thanks for understanding."

"No problem."

"Well, I'll let you go. Gonna hit the showers myself."

"All right. Take care."

He walks back to his locker, which is in the opposite direction from the showers. He unwraps his towel and gets a new one. As he walks toward me and to the showers, I get a great glimpse of his body. He looks pretty good - lean with some slight musculature. And not a bad-sized cock, either. We make eye contact as he passes, and he grins and winks at me. Right as he passes me, he says, "That's the longest I've ever seen someone take to tie their shoes."

I can't come up with a valid excuse fast enough, so I just get up and start walking out. Just before I reach the door, I hear the shower turn on, and glance to my right. Derek is facing away from me, and I get one more view of his backside. I pause to take it all in, then head out and make my way home.

 

[Craiger]

I don't know...I think Brad had better take it a bit slower with Derek. If he cheated on his g/f and has had threesomes, he may figure it's OK to play the game with Brad. That's all he needs just when a cool relationship it forming. Maybe I'm be too judgmental, but, better safe than sorry. Great update, AG.

Craiger

 

[truxtun]

Oh Brad, the web we weave. Careful as you go babe!

 

[AstareGod]

I don't know...I think Brad had better take it a bit slower with Derek. If he cheated on his g/f and has had threesomes, he may figure it's OK to play the game with Brad. That's all he needs just when a cool relationship it forming. Maybe I'm be too judgmental, but, better safe than sorry. Great update, AG.

Craiger

Guess we'll find out, huh?!

Oh Brad, the web we weave. Careful as you go babe!

The world of relationships is full of land mines. Ain't that the truth...

 

[AstareGod]

Part 27

Gary, Harry, and I plan to meet at Cooters. Typical. I'm on my way when they call and say they had arrived. I finally get there and head inside, and they wave me down to their table. I join them.

"Hey guys."

"Hey Brad. We got you a beer."

"Awesome, thanks! How're your weekends going?"

"Gina and I are taking it pretty easy. Just relaxing at home. Lately she's been really into her photography, so she hasn't had much free time otherwise."

Then Harry speaks up. "And I'm just home alone."

"Have you and Julia spoken at all?"

"That bitch? Hell no."

We all laugh. Our server approaches our table, and we place our order.

"So how are you and James doing?"

"We had the most romantic evening on Thursday before he flew out. He cooked, we had wine, fell asleep in front of his fireplace..."

Harry interjects. "Whoa. Where does this guy live?"

"Just north of Lake Union, in Fremont. He's got this huge place."

"Sounds impressive."

"It is. Anyway, he gets back a week from today, so it's going to be a lonely week for me. Anyway, Harry, speaking of lonely: Have you met anyone else since Julia left?"

"Not yet. I haven't really had the heart to look. Julia seemed so promising. It's just horrible the way she treated you. I hope there's a better woman out there."

I nudge Harry on the arm. "I dunno, you might have to try dating a man!"

Harry chuckles. "No thanks. I think I'll leave dating the guys all to you. James is a great catch; I wouldn't want you having any more competition."

"Oh, which reminds me: There's this other guy who kind of got on my case."

"Who's that?"

"Some guy named Derek. He works at this deli that James goes to a lot. In fact, that's where I met Derek the first time, when I went with James. Anyway, this guy was supposedly straight, but was curious about what sex with a guy was like, so he and James messed around sometime a while back. And I don’t really care about that. But I go to the deli again with my coworker, and Derek sees us and thinks I'm cheating on James and calls him up and rats me out!"

"Wow, what a dick! What did James do?"

"He ignored him. Derek had actually cheated on his own girlfriend when he messed around with James, so he didn't have much room to talk, anyway."

"Ouch."

"Well, anyway, I ran into him again at the gym today. He apologized and said he was just looking out for James's wellbeing, which I can understand. He seems like an all right guy. He even invited me to hang out with him sometime."

Gary and Harry look at each other, then Gary speaks up. "I don't know, Brad. I smell a rat."

"What makes you think so?"

"Why would he go out of his way to tell James you were cheating, which was obviously a lie?"

"He may have genuinely been misunderstood. That's understandable."

"I think he thinks you're moving in on his turf. Otherwise, why would a guy who cheated himself be so concerned with someone else who could be potentially cheating? That seems a bit hypocritial, don't you think?"

I think for a moment. "Yeah, that does make sense. But... I don't know. I'm not too sure. I'll just give him the benefit of the doubt, I guess. But don't worry - I can look after myself."

"Tread carefully, Brad. We're looking out for you, too."

"I will."

* * * * *

We finish up dinner and go our separate ways. On my way home I give James a call. The phone rings and rings, and eventually his voicemail picks up, so I decide to leave a message. "Hey James, I guess you're busy hobnobbing with everyone. Give me a call if you can tonight, or if not, I should be free all day tomorrow. I hope you're having lots of fun over there. Wish I was there with you. All right, talk to you soon. Bye." And I hang up.

I think about it for a bit, and decide to take Derek up on his offer. Still on my way home, I call him.

"Hello?"

"Hey Derek, this is Brad."

"Oh, hey, Brad. How's your night going?"

"Going pretty good. Just heading back home from having dinner with friends. What are you up to?"

"Nothing really. Just enjoying the weekend."

"Well I wanted to ask if you were free any time this week and wanted to hang out."

"Yeah, that sounds fun! I'm pretty busy during the week. I'm taking some classes - don't want to work at the deli forever. But Friday nights are always pretty good. What about you?"

"Friday is good for me, too. Want to get together then?"

"Sure! Head out to a bar, maybe?"

"I think I can manage that."

"Cool. Well, I'll let you go."

"OK. See you Friday, then."

"See you." And with that, we hang up.

* * * * *

I get home, take off my pants, and put on some lounge shorts. I lie on the couch and start to watch a romantic movie. I'm halfway through when my phone rings. It's James.

"Hey! How's your night going?"

"Hey there. Going pretty well. I got your message. You're right; things have been pretty busy here."

"Well, I'm glad you could pull yourself away for a little bit."

"Yeah. How are things on the other side of the country?"

"Oh, the usual - gray, dreary, and moist. It would be better if I had someone to cuddle with."

"Well, just imagine me there in your arms."

"Yeah, I tried that last night. Didn't really help that much."

James chuckles. "How about when I get back on Saturday, I spend the night at your place? Then we can cuddle all weekend."

"You know just how to send shivers up and down my spine."

"And all the way down to your boner."

He is right.

There is silence on the line for a few seconds, then James continues. "So, that's a yes?"

"It's a yes."

"Awesome. Hey, look, I've gotta get going and hobnob some more. I should be free tomorrow. Can I call you sometime in the afternoon?"

"Yeah. I'll be here."

"Great."

"OK, get back to it, mister party animal."

"All righty. Have a good night, Brad. Talk to you tomorrow."

"Bye."

I hang up and finish the rest of my movie. I head to bed and grab a pillow to cuddle with. And just like last night, it doesn't help me miss my James any less.

 

[truxtun]

Damn Brad - your friends warn you, give you good advice, and what do you do? You're heading for trouble buddy boy. Please, please Brad tell me that your at least smart enough to tell James about your encounter - because Derek certainly will!

 

[vater292]

Aah I can’t believe I got two parts behind!

Yup gotta agree with Truxtun and Craiger. Brad needs to be careful with what he does here with Derek. It’s a bit to fishy! If Brad does hangout with Derek I think he at least needs to mention to James his encounter with Derek at the gym and hanging out. I am looking forward to the next part, to see what happens with them hanging out, and the part when James finally returns.

I did happen to see a few photographs taken from the Top of the Rock which I think are absolutely beautiful. I'll try to track them down and post links here over the next few days.

I agree going to the Top of the Rock (forgot it was called that until you mentioned) should be a must see. The views from there are beautiful. Sadly, while I was there I only had my crappy camera phone. So any pictures you could find would be good.

 

[72-Jay]

Enjoyed reading the last 2 parts & looking forward to the next

but hmmm...whats Derek up to? just being friendly, or something more?...

 

[AstareGod]

Hey guys, just wanted to check in here quickly. I have the next two parts fully written, and am going to start on the third. Part 28 will be posted sometime Monday evening.

Damn Brad - your friends warn you, give you good advice, and what do you do? You're heading for trouble buddy boy. Please, please Brad tell me that your at least smart enough to tell James about your encounter - because Derek certainly will!

Temptation can be around every corner. You have some good advice though. Lets hope Brad heeds it.

Aah I can’t believe I got two parts behind!

Yup gotta agree with Truxtun and Craiger. Brad needs to be careful with what he does here with Derek. It’s a bit to fishy! If Brad does hangout with Derek I think he at least needs to mention to James his encounter with Derek at the gym and hanging out. I am looking forward to the next part, to see what happens with them hanging out, and the part when James finally returns.

I agree going to the Top of the Rock (forgot it was called that until you mentioned) should be a must see. The views from there are beautiful. Sadly, while I was there I only had my crappy camera phone. So any pictures you could find would be good.

It's all good! Don't knock yourself for being behind. I'm technically 2-3 weeks behind on my writing due to my little hiatus last month. I swear with this new job I didn't think I'd get that much writing in, but I've been writing almost every day in a row this past week, including tonight.

It's kind of interesting seeing Derek through Brad's eyes. Is he trying to wreck things, or was he genuinely concerned for James? Getting to know someone in a romantic sense can be interesting, because all sorts of conflicts can happen with the friends that they currently have. We don't know if we can trust Derek yet; we just have to wait and see.

As for Top of the Rock, I absolutely love InterfaceLift for wallpapers. There are a few taken from Rockefeller Center. Each link goes to a different wallpaper:

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock

Dusk of the Rock

New York City from Rock Center

Enjoyed reading the last 2 parts & looking forward to the next

but hmmm...whats Derek up to? just being friendly, or something more?...

I'm glad you're liking the story! I'm sure we'll find out what Derek is up to pretty soon!

 

[vater292]

It's all good! Don't knock yourself for being behind. I'm technically 2-3 weeks behind on my writing due to my little hiatus last month. I swear with this new job I didn't think I'd get that much writing in, but I've been writing almost every day in a row this past week, including tonight.

It's kind of interesting seeing Derek through Brad's eyes. Is he trying to wreck things, or was he genuinely concerned for James? Getting to know someone in a romantic sense can be interesting, because all sorts of conflicts can happen with the friends that they currently have. We don't know if we can trust Derek yet; we just have to wait and see.

As for Top of the Rock, I absolutely love InterfaceLift for wallpapers. There are a few taken from Rockefeller Center. Each link goes to a different wallpaper:

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock

Dusk of the Rock

New York City from Rock Center

I'm glad you're liking the story! I'm sure we'll find out what Derek is up to pretty soon!

haha Yeah, I couldn't believe there were two parts up by the time I was able to come back and check in. The end of the week was crazy at work. Glad you are able to get to write more than you thought.

I Can't wait to see how things play out with what Derek is up to. It is interesting seeing Derek through Brads eyes. Personally if I was in a situation like that I know I would honestly probably view it different than how I would be able to view it the third person perspective I have now. So anxiously waiting for it to play out.

All of those wall papers are beautiful. Of those, my favorite is probably the Dusk of the Rock. Thanks for sharing those, I will have to check out what other wallpapers they have, they are really good quality.

 

[AstareGod]

Part 28 will be published imminently!

haha Yeah, I couldn't believe there were two parts up by the time I was able to come back and check in. The end of the week was crazy at work. Glad you are able to get to write more than you thought.

I Can't wait to see how things play out with what Derek is up to. It is interesting seeing Derek through Brads eyes. Personally if I was in a situation like that I know I would honestly probably view it different than how I would be able to view it the third person perspective I have now. So anxiously waiting for it to play out.

All of those wall papers are beautiful. Of those, my favorite is probably the Dusk of the Rock. Thanks for sharing those, I will have to check out what other wallpapers they have, they are really good quality.

I'm surprised how much I'm able to get done, too. I think I'm writing more because I'm in more of a routine now - instead of having this huge, unstructured block of time, I work my 8 hours and then have the rest of the night to work on other stuff, like the story. It's becoming a bit routine, in only a good way, that is.

I can tell you right now, I probably wouldn't do half the things Brad's done so far. That's the beauty of writing a story, though - I get to put completely made-up characters in a purely fictional world and have them discover and experience new parts of themselves. I sort of get to experience the consequences of these decisions through my characters, though I'd never do what they do in real life. I bet my readers get to experience sort of the same thing.

I'm glad you like the wallpapers! The people who submit to that site have really professional cameras and do very minor post-production editing. Every few days there will be a new one submitted. I believe I have all their Seattle ones.

 

[AstareGod]

Want some music to put you in the mood for this part? Skip to the bottom of this post.

Part 28

I hang around the house Sunday. Work is about to get very mentally exhausting, so I need all the relaxation I can get in the meantime.

As promised, James rings around mid-afternoon.

"Hey James!"

"Hey there, cutie."

"Have fun at the party last night?"

"Oh, absolutely. But I can't wait to get back to Seattle."

"I'll see if I can work my magic and speed up time."

"Please." James chuckles. "Anything interesting going on over there?"

"Not really. I did run into Derek yesterday though at the gym."

"Oh?"

"Yeah. He apologized for the whole misunderstanding earlier."

"Well that's good. You two talk about anything else?"

"He opened up a little about his personal life, including that special thing you know how to do with your tongue."

I hear the most devilish laugh on the other end. "You do know that's the reason he's still with his girlfriend, right?"

"Yeah, he told me that. Anyway, he and I made plans to hang out Friday night and maybe go to a bar, if that's OK with you."

"Of course it's OK. Why wouldn't it be?"

"I just figured I'd ask, since we're dating and all."

"Brad, you don't have to ask my permission to hang out with other guys. I'm not like that. Plus, with me being out of town, I don't want you getting bored out of your mind."

* * * * *

Just as I had predicted, work is mentally taxing - all five days of the week. There's only so much running I can do to clear my mind - but I give it one last chance on Friday. I head home after my run, shower, and get dressed to go out. I call Derek.

"Hey Brad. We still going out tonight?"

"Yeah. I wanted to know where we should meet."

"I live right in Capitol Hill. How about I text you my address? You can park in front of my place, and then we can head from there."

"That sounds good. See you soon!"

I hang up, and a few seconds later, my phone buzzes with Derek's address. I check the map and then head out.

Getting to his place is pretty easy. I park and step out. Derek emerges from his house wearing a tight-fitting blue button-down shirt and black slacks.

I wolf-whistle at him. "My, my. Don't you look sharp!"

"You look pretty good yourself."

"Thanks. So, what did you have in mind?"

"I was thinking of Madison Pub. How does that sound?"

"Fine by me."

We start heading to the bar.

"So Derek, do you live with anyone?"

"Yeah. My girlfriend and I live together."

"And she's OK with you going to gay bars with strangers?"

"I wouldn't call you a stranger. I think we got to know each other real well at the gym." He lightly taps my ass. "Plus, James has a good head on his shoulders. If he hasn't run away from you by now, you're most likely not a serial killer or anything."

We continue walking the next few blocks and getting to know each other, and then we round the corner and head into the bar. I hold the door open for him.

"Thanks, Brad."

"No problem."

"So, can I get you anything?"

"Oh, please. Drinks are on me."

"That's OK. You don't have to."

"Nonsense. I used to be a poor college student, too. Now I'm just a poor college graduate. But I have the degree, so that means drinks are on me. You can buy for your graduation party. Deal?"

"Deal. In that case, a Sex on the Beach, please."

"Wow, you don't waste any time, do you?"

I walk up to the bar and get our drinks. We sit at the bar and keep getting to know each other while we order drink after drink after drink. Soon we're both feeling verrry relaxed and are having a pretty good time.

All of a sudden a really jammin' song comes on and I get all excited. I grab Derek's hands. "Oh my God I love this song!!!"

"Meeee toooo!!! Come on, let's dance!"

It takes us some effort to get up and move to the dance floor, but we get there eventually. Derek and I look into each other's eyes as we dance. We nudge closer and closer to each other. I place my hands on his sides while he has his hands on my hips. A new song begins playing, and our hands move lower and lower until we're practically groping each other's hips, ass, and upper thighs. Derek spins around and backs up into me, and I grip his hips as we bump and grind against each other to the beat of the music.

The music switches gears to a slower song, and we slow our dancing to match. Derek leans into me until his head rests on my right shoulder.

"So, Brad, you know about that thing James does with his tongue?"

"Yeah."

"And you know how good it feels?"

"I sure do."

"Wanna learn how to do it?"

I think for a few seconds, and then reach a decision. "Let me go close the tab."

* * * * *

We stumble back to Derek's place. He unlocks the door and we head inside. "No need to be quiet. My girlfriend is out of town visiting family."

I walk to his couch and plop down, mentally exhausted from work and physically exhausted from the alcohol and dancing, but I'm otherwise in a great state of mind and body. Derek sits next to me, places his hand on my chest, and leans closer and closer to me, until our lips make contact.

The alcohol has my head spinning in such a state of bliss. I'm not worried about anything outside of Derek and myself. The feeling of kissing someone is pure ecstasy.

Derek lowers his hand from my chest to my upper thigh and he gives it a squeeze. He then kneels on the floor in front of me, undoes my belt, unzips my pants, and slides them down my legs and onto the floor. He moves his hands back to my upper thighs and massages them. It all feels so wonderful. I'm getting rather hot, so I undo the buttons of my shirt and expose my undershirt. My cock becomes more and more erect and is now straining to get out of my underwear.

Derek hooks his fingers underneath the waistband of my briefs, moves it up and over my hard cock, and slides them down to the floor. He takes my cock in his hand, leans forward, and takes me into his mouth. He moves his head up and down, lashing my cock with his tongue. It all feels so great that I quickly come within inches of orgasm.

"Oh my God! How do you fucking do that?"

He hoists himself up, still fully clothed, and bends down to kiss me. He shoves his tongue into my mouth and moves it in the same motion as a few seconds ago. "It's simple. Switch pretty quickly between a waving and circular motion, go around the whole shaft, and then pay special attention to the frenulum. Lick right under the ridges of the head. And don't forget the balls."

"Wow; that sounds kind of hard to master."

"It's not that bad. Wanna give it a shot?"

I nod. He stands straight up in front of me. I take off the rest of my clothes. While he undoes and takes off his shirt, I unhook his belt and pants and let gravity pull them down to the floor. He kicks them to the side, and I grab the waistband of his tight trunks and pull down, exposing his hard dick. I reach my hands behind him, grab his ass, and pull him toward my face. I take him inside.

After a few moans of pleasure, Derek gives me direction. "Try moving your tongue in a circular motion."

I do as I am told, and he seems satisfied. "OK, try the waving, flapping motion... Back to the circular... Now tongue by the ridges."

I keep this going for a few minutes, rotating between the different techniques. Derek seems to be enjoying it immensely. I take his dick into my hand and begin jerking him off while I move my mouth to his balls. I lick each one and tongue underneath them, and catch the sweet scent of his asshole. I lightly finger him with my other hand, then return my mouth to his dick. I move my head and my hand along his dick in a synchronized motion, and Derek gets closer and closer to orgasm. I pull my mouth off of him and jerk him off to the finish.

"Oh, God, Brad. Fuck, man."

He spurts and spurts onto my bare chest while he lets out moans of pleasure. His orgasm eventually finishes and his breathing gets closer to normal.

"So, did I pass the class?"

"With highest fucking honors."

A few dribbles of cum ooze from his dick. I lean forward and lap them up with my tongue.

"All right, time to finish you off."

He kneels down and takes my cock inside him again. He furiously moves his mouth and hand up and down, just like I had done to him. I get closer and closer, and eventually reach my own orgasm. I explode all over my chest and torso.

Derek leaps up, heads to the bathroom, and grabs a towel. As I'm still relishing in orgasmic bliss, he wipes down my chest, torso, and cock. When my breathing returns to normal, he grabs my hands and leads me to the bedroom, where we both collapse onto his bed. We crawl underneath a blanket and fall asleep in each other's arms.

-------

And some music to put you in the mood:

Donna Summer - Fame (The Game) Ralphi Rosario Club Mix



No Doubt - Hella Good

 

[vater292]

Brad, Brad, Brad...... What are you doing?! That is more than a drink. James is pretty understanding of a lot of things, but I think that is a lot to be understanding of. Nice update Astare, definitely keeping it interesting and wanting more. Anxiously awaiting to see what the morning brings for Brad when he wakes up. Also I like the music to go along with the parts it is a nice touch while reading, especially knowing they are in a bar.

Part 28 will be published imminently!

I'm surprised how much I'm able to get done, too. I think I'm writing more because I'm in more of a routine now - instead of having this huge, unstructured block of time, I work my 8 hours and then have the rest of the night to work on other stuff, like the story. It's becoming a bit routine, in only a good way, that is.

I can tell you right now, I probably wouldn't do half the things Brad's done so far. That's the beauty of writing a story, though - I get to put completely made-up characters in a purely fictional world and have them discover and experience new parts of themselves. I sort of get to experience the consequences of these decisions through my characters, though I'd never do what they do in real life. I bet my readers get to experience sort of the same thing.

I'm glad you like the wallpapers! The people who submit to that site have really professional cameras and do very minor post-production editing. Every few days there will be a new one submitted. I believe I have all their Seattle ones.

Well I am definitely glad you have been able to continue writting. This is an amazing story and has been a great read thus far. I agree I don't think I would do a lot of the things Brad has done, but it is interesting reading like this and seeing how things play out. Then you get the benefit of determining how it turns out and in what way.

I am definitelly liking the wallpapers havent ever seen that site before. I am still, slowly, going through all the New York ones they have. I will have to check out Seattle next. I also noticed they had a group for the Grand Canyon, wouldnt mind going through those as well. Those are all some amazing pictures.

 

[Craiger]

Well, as Vater says, Brad, Brad, Brad...... What are you doing?! It may be wise for Brad to limit his drinking habits. He had a similar situation with Kelly and now Derek. The problem here is how does he explain this to James? Will James be compassionate enough to let this pass or will the worm of mistrust work it's way into the relationship. Brad has a lot to learn if he wants a secure relationship to form. James is due back and will undoubtedly call. Will he find Brad at Derek's? Let's see how part 29 turn out.

Craiger

 

[truxtun]

Ah shit, this was even a worse disaster than I imagined. Didn't suspect that Brad was this big of a douche bag. Run James run - Brad isn't bf material.