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Brad's Search
- Thread starter AstareGod
- Start date
vater292
Slut
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- Oct 21, 2011
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Hey looking good AG!. That looked like it was a fun trip. The pictures looked really good. Did you happen to see any good looking guys running or throwing Frisbee while in the park?
Hmm....that sounds like more detail may be necessary.
Hmm....that sounds like more detail may be necessary.
I agree with Vater - we need more detail! I have never quite experienced anything like that - I'm not even sure that I'd want to. I'll stick to my nude beaches - love having all the bare bodies around but without all the sex involved.
However that sounds like an amazing experience and I'm very interested in hearing about how it went.Thanks, Vater! The trip was fantastic. I had lots of fun and did not want to leave. I'll very likely be heading up there again in April, and moving there permanently by this summer. Washington is where I belong.
Unfortunately the park was kind of dead when my best friend and I went up there that morning. We were actually on our way up to Vancouver, BC. Luckily the sun came out there, but in Seattle it stayed cloudy all day! We picked the best day to head to Canada!
I didn't get a chance to visit Volunteer Park (where the guys toss the Frisbee). There was just not enough time to fit everything in. However, next time I head to Seattle I'll make that a priority!
FINALLY!
Without further ado...
Part 44
We walk into the room, pulling our suitcases behind us.
I look around. "If it's possible, the room looks even more magnificent than the lobby."
"Then I guess it's possible. They weren't kidding when they called this place the best hotel in Portland."
"So, which bedroom do we get?"
"Hmm... We should obviously save the biggest one for Patrick and Damon, since they're the ones getting married and all. But after them, first-come, first-served?"
I point to one of the bedrooms on the right side of the suite. "How about that one?"
"Works for me."
We pull our suitcases into the bedroom and unpack a few essentials. We then head back into the living area to admire the view outside the window. The hotel is just a few blocks away from the Willamette River, and we have breathtaking views of the Columbia River, the Gorge, and Mount Hood.
James wraps his arm around my shoulder, caresses it a few times, then sighs. I turn my head to look at him. "What's wrong?"
He continues to stare out the window and into the distance. "Being here again just brings back so many memories."
"Memories of what?"
He takes a deep breath. "My first boyfriend lived in Portland."
"Oh."
A few more seconds pass before he continues. "His name was Jeremy. We met in Seattle. He came up for Pride, and he ended up standing next to me at one of the parades. That's how we met. That was about eight years ago now, I think. God, so much has happened since then..."
I rub his back. "You don't have to talk about it if you're not comfortable-"
"-No, no, no, it's OK. It's just been a really long time."
"Was it serious?"
"Oh, was it. I fell in love with him, hard. I mean, he was my first, so it was only natural." He sighs quickly. "After Pride, he went back home and we stayed up late so many nights and just talked - about everything. I went down and spent a few weekends with him. We eventually made plans for me to move in with him, and when December rolled around and I got a break from college, I put those plans into action."
"Really?"
"Yeah. I was about 20 at the time. Dad was a bit wary of the whole thing, but he sat me down one day and told me that I was an adult, and that I was responsible for making my own decisions. I felt a bit tense, but then he told me he brought me up the best that he could, that I had a good head on my shoulders, and that he knew the decision I was making was the best for me." He wipes a tear from his eye. "I think that's when he finally accepted me for who I really am. He was always uncomfortable bringing it up before that. It all changed in that moment. He told me he loved me and that he would always be there for me."
I take his hand in mine and squeeze it.
"So luckily he kept his promise. Jeremy and I eventually broke up and I moved back home."
"Why did you two break up?"
He turns to me. "Oh, I don't want to get into that right now. Maybe later. I'd rather focus on what I have right in front of me."
He leans in closer and we kiss a few times. He grabs the back of my head, pulls me closer, and we kiss more passionately. I move my hands down to his ass and massage and squeeze it as he lets out soft moans of pleasure.
James turns and leads me to the couch and we sit down. As we keep kissing, he places his hand on my knee and moves it higher and higher along my thigh until he reaches my cock, grabbing and massaging it through my pants. I shove my tongue down his throat and kiss him more passionately than before. We are getting so into it, I hardly hear the door unlock and open.
"Ooh, are we interrupting anything?"
James looks over at the door. "Not at all, Damon. Come on in." He smirks and whispers at me, "I guess we'll have to continue this later."
Damon and Patrick enter the room with many bags in tow. James and I get up and walk over to help them; I hold the door while James helps carry their bags in. Freddie, Charles, and Hadim follow suit.
"How was the drive?"
Patrick sets his bags down near the couch. "Oh, the usual. Tie-ups in Seattle and crossing into Oregon."
James snorts. "I didn't know you were into being tied up."
Everyone chuckles. Damon retorts, "I guess there's a lot we're going to be learning about each other this weekend."
James points out which bedroom we've already taken, and we help the guys move their bags into the other three bedrooms. Once they're all settled in, we head back to the living area and sit down. James cuddles up next to me on the couch, while Freddie sits next to us. Hadim, Charles, Damon, and Patrick all sit in chairs on either side of us.
Patrick turns to James. "So how was your drive in?"
"Well, Brad did the driving. I talked to Paul."
Everyone is genuinely surprised to hear the news. After a few seconds, Charles chimes in. "What brought that on?"
"He had started calling and asking for me at work, over and over, every single day. I kept refusing to talk to him, but Dad convinced me to call him back. I truly didn't expect what was coming."
Everyone sits in silent anticipation, until Hadim speaks up. "And? What was that?"
"That he's actually been gay this whole time, and that he cheated on his wife, who then ran away with their kids to Illinois."
Everyone's jaw drops.
"And that was my reaction."
Damon sits with a puzzled expression. "How are you not in hysterics right now?"
"Honestly, I don't think all the news has sunken in yet. It's way beyond anything I could have expected. One thing is for sure, though - I am definitely in need of a drink. A strong drink."
I chime in. "Like one of my 'world-famous lemon drops'?"
"That would be amazing, babe. Can you make me one?"
"With what? I didn't bring any ingredients."
"No-" A devilish grin washes over his face. "-But I did. They're in my suitcase."
I smile and shake my head, then walk inside our bedroom and open his suitcase to find all the ingredients for making lemon drops. So that's what I heard rattling around. I grab everything and head into the kitchenette.
Charles eyes me as I walk in. "Damn, James - you save any room for clothes in that suitcase?" Everyone laughs.
While the guys continue conversing, I set everything on the counter, then turn and search through the cabinets until I find the glassware. I grab a martini glass and set it on the counter. I collect some ice out of the freezer, shake up enough lemon drop for James, and pour it into the glass. "Order up!"
I walk over and hand the drink to James. He takes a sip. "Perfect. Thanks, babe." He turns to the guys. "I swear, these will be the death of me."
I sit back down next to him.
Patrick leans closer. "That looks delicious. Mind if I try some?"
"Sure, Pat. Go ahead."
James hands the glass to Patrick, who takes a small sip and sets it back down. "Damn, these are good. James, this one is a keeper."
James chuckles. "Thanks, Pat. I'm glad you think so."
Patrick smiles and winks at me.
James continues, "All right, guys, enough about me and my dysfunctional family. This is your weekend. You're getting married!"
Patrick and Damon laugh excitedly and everyone has smiles all around.
I ask, "What time will the rehearsal and dinner be tomorrow?"
Damon answers, "So the plan is to have the rehearsal at 5 and have dinner around an hour or two after that."
James places his hand on my shoulder. "Hey Brad, do you want to try on Charles's suit tonight to make sure it fits?"
Patrick responds, "Yeah, that's a great idea. One less thing to worry about tomorrow before the rehearsal."
"Sure, I can try it on tonight."
Charles stands up and heads for his room. "I'll go and grab it for you." We wait for a few seconds until Charles returns with the suit. "Here you go."
"Thanks. Can you head to the bedroom with me, James?"
"Absolutely. We'll be right back, guys."
James and I head into the bedroom. He sets his drink on the nightstand and lies back on the bed while I take off my regular clothes and pull on the suit - shirt first, then pants, and finally the jacket. It's a remarkably good fit.
"What do you think?"
He makes a spinning motion with his finger. "Turn around. Let me get a good look at you."
I do as he says, then stop to face him again.
He stands up and takes my hand. "You look so stunningly beautiful, Brad. You're gonna look great on Sunday."
We embrace, and then kiss as we pull away. He says to me softly, "I'm pretty beat. How about we show the guys the suit, and then head to bed?"
"Sure. It's about time I got into a horizontal position."
We walk out of the bedroom to show off the suit to the other guys, who cheer and wolf whistle at me as I step out.
I walk over to Charles and place my hand on his shoulder. "Thank you so much for letting me borrow your suit."
"Think nothing of it. I'm glad it fits you so well."
James speaks up. "Well guys, Brad and I have been through a pretty exhausting day. We're going to go turn in and we'll see you tomorrow."
The guys wish us a good night. James takes the final sip of his drink, and then we head back into the bedroom.
I take off the suit and carefully hang it up in the closet while James takes off his regular clothes. We go through our regular nightly routine and crawl under the covers.
"James, I have a question for you."
"What's that?"
"Do you ever think about being here with Jeremy from time to time?"
He sighs. "Yeah. It doesn't happen often, but it does happen. He and I were in love, after all. We did lots of things together here. Even though it's been several years since he and I have broken up, he still holds a special place in my heart. I hope he's happy wherever he is."
"And are you happy? Right now?"
He brushes my hair with his hand. "Of course I'm happy right now. How could I not be?" He leans down and kisses my cheek. "Are you?"
"Never been happier."
He wraps his arms around me and we hug tightly. As we pull away, he whispers in my ear, "Pleasant dreams."
"You too."
I roll over and he spoons me from behind. We drift off to sleep.
Without further ado...
Part 44
We walk into the room, pulling our suitcases behind us.
I look around. "If it's possible, the room looks even more magnificent than the lobby."
"Then I guess it's possible. They weren't kidding when they called this place the best hotel in Portland."
"So, which bedroom do we get?"
"Hmm... We should obviously save the biggest one for Patrick and Damon, since they're the ones getting married and all. But after them, first-come, first-served?"
I point to one of the bedrooms on the right side of the suite. "How about that one?"
"Works for me."
We pull our suitcases into the bedroom and unpack a few essentials. We then head back into the living area to admire the view outside the window. The hotel is just a few blocks away from the Willamette River, and we have breathtaking views of the Columbia River, the Gorge, and Mount Hood.
James wraps his arm around my shoulder, caresses it a few times, then sighs. I turn my head to look at him. "What's wrong?"
He continues to stare out the window and into the distance. "Being here again just brings back so many memories."
"Memories of what?"
He takes a deep breath. "My first boyfriend lived in Portland."
"Oh."
A few more seconds pass before he continues. "His name was Jeremy. We met in Seattle. He came up for Pride, and he ended up standing next to me at one of the parades. That's how we met. That was about eight years ago now, I think. God, so much has happened since then..."
I rub his back. "You don't have to talk about it if you're not comfortable-"
"-No, no, no, it's OK. It's just been a really long time."
"Was it serious?"
"Oh, was it. I fell in love with him, hard. I mean, he was my first, so it was only natural." He sighs quickly. "After Pride, he went back home and we stayed up late so many nights and just talked - about everything. I went down and spent a few weekends with him. We eventually made plans for me to move in with him, and when December rolled around and I got a break from college, I put those plans into action."
"Really?"
"Yeah. I was about 20 at the time. Dad was a bit wary of the whole thing, but he sat me down one day and told me that I was an adult, and that I was responsible for making my own decisions. I felt a bit tense, but then he told me he brought me up the best that he could, that I had a good head on my shoulders, and that he knew the decision I was making was the best for me." He wipes a tear from his eye. "I think that's when he finally accepted me for who I really am. He was always uncomfortable bringing it up before that. It all changed in that moment. He told me he loved me and that he would always be there for me."
I take his hand in mine and squeeze it.
"So luckily he kept his promise. Jeremy and I eventually broke up and I moved back home."
"Why did you two break up?"
He turns to me. "Oh, I don't want to get into that right now. Maybe later. I'd rather focus on what I have right in front of me."
He leans in closer and we kiss a few times. He grabs the back of my head, pulls me closer, and we kiss more passionately. I move my hands down to his ass and massage and squeeze it as he lets out soft moans of pleasure.
James turns and leads me to the couch and we sit down. As we keep kissing, he places his hand on my knee and moves it higher and higher along my thigh until he reaches my cock, grabbing and massaging it through my pants. I shove my tongue down his throat and kiss him more passionately than before. We are getting so into it, I hardly hear the door unlock and open.
"Ooh, are we interrupting anything?"
James looks over at the door. "Not at all, Damon. Come on in." He smirks and whispers at me, "I guess we'll have to continue this later."
Damon and Patrick enter the room with many bags in tow. James and I get up and walk over to help them; I hold the door while James helps carry their bags in. Freddie, Charles, and Hadim follow suit.
"How was the drive?"
Patrick sets his bags down near the couch. "Oh, the usual. Tie-ups in Seattle and crossing into Oregon."
James snorts. "I didn't know you were into being tied up."
Everyone chuckles. Damon retorts, "I guess there's a lot we're going to be learning about each other this weekend."
James points out which bedroom we've already taken, and we help the guys move their bags into the other three bedrooms. Once they're all settled in, we head back to the living area and sit down. James cuddles up next to me on the couch, while Freddie sits next to us. Hadim, Charles, Damon, and Patrick all sit in chairs on either side of us.
Patrick turns to James. "So how was your drive in?"
"Well, Brad did the driving. I talked to Paul."
Everyone is genuinely surprised to hear the news. After a few seconds, Charles chimes in. "What brought that on?"
"He had started calling and asking for me at work, over and over, every single day. I kept refusing to talk to him, but Dad convinced me to call him back. I truly didn't expect what was coming."
Everyone sits in silent anticipation, until Hadim speaks up. "And? What was that?"
"That he's actually been gay this whole time, and that he cheated on his wife, who then ran away with their kids to Illinois."
Everyone's jaw drops.
"And that was my reaction."
Damon sits with a puzzled expression. "How are you not in hysterics right now?"
"Honestly, I don't think all the news has sunken in yet. It's way beyond anything I could have expected. One thing is for sure, though - I am definitely in need of a drink. A strong drink."
I chime in. "Like one of my 'world-famous lemon drops'?"
"That would be amazing, babe. Can you make me one?"
"With what? I didn't bring any ingredients."
"No-" A devilish grin washes over his face. "-But I did. They're in my suitcase."
I smile and shake my head, then walk inside our bedroom and open his suitcase to find all the ingredients for making lemon drops. So that's what I heard rattling around. I grab everything and head into the kitchenette.
Charles eyes me as I walk in. "Damn, James - you save any room for clothes in that suitcase?" Everyone laughs.
While the guys continue conversing, I set everything on the counter, then turn and search through the cabinets until I find the glassware. I grab a martini glass and set it on the counter. I collect some ice out of the freezer, shake up enough lemon drop for James, and pour it into the glass. "Order up!"
I walk over and hand the drink to James. He takes a sip. "Perfect. Thanks, babe." He turns to the guys. "I swear, these will be the death of me."
I sit back down next to him.
Patrick leans closer. "That looks delicious. Mind if I try some?"
"Sure, Pat. Go ahead."
James hands the glass to Patrick, who takes a small sip and sets it back down. "Damn, these are good. James, this one is a keeper."
James chuckles. "Thanks, Pat. I'm glad you think so."
Patrick smiles and winks at me.
James continues, "All right, guys, enough about me and my dysfunctional family. This is your weekend. You're getting married!"
Patrick and Damon laugh excitedly and everyone has smiles all around.
I ask, "What time will the rehearsal and dinner be tomorrow?"
Damon answers, "So the plan is to have the rehearsal at 5 and have dinner around an hour or two after that."
James places his hand on my shoulder. "Hey Brad, do you want to try on Charles's suit tonight to make sure it fits?"
Patrick responds, "Yeah, that's a great idea. One less thing to worry about tomorrow before the rehearsal."
"Sure, I can try it on tonight."
Charles stands up and heads for his room. "I'll go and grab it for you." We wait for a few seconds until Charles returns with the suit. "Here you go."
"Thanks. Can you head to the bedroom with me, James?"
"Absolutely. We'll be right back, guys."
James and I head into the bedroom. He sets his drink on the nightstand and lies back on the bed while I take off my regular clothes and pull on the suit - shirt first, then pants, and finally the jacket. It's a remarkably good fit.
"What do you think?"
He makes a spinning motion with his finger. "Turn around. Let me get a good look at you."
I do as he says, then stop to face him again.
He stands up and takes my hand. "You look so stunningly beautiful, Brad. You're gonna look great on Sunday."
We embrace, and then kiss as we pull away. He says to me softly, "I'm pretty beat. How about we show the guys the suit, and then head to bed?"
"Sure. It's about time I got into a horizontal position."
We walk out of the bedroom to show off the suit to the other guys, who cheer and wolf whistle at me as I step out.
I walk over to Charles and place my hand on his shoulder. "Thank you so much for letting me borrow your suit."
"Think nothing of it. I'm glad it fits you so well."
James speaks up. "Well guys, Brad and I have been through a pretty exhausting day. We're going to go turn in and we'll see you tomorrow."
The guys wish us a good night. James takes the final sip of his drink, and then we head back into the bedroom.
I take off the suit and carefully hang it up in the closet while James takes off his regular clothes. We go through our regular nightly routine and crawl under the covers.
"James, I have a question for you."
"What's that?"
"Do you ever think about being here with Jeremy from time to time?"
He sighs. "Yeah. It doesn't happen often, but it does happen. He and I were in love, after all. We did lots of things together here. Even though it's been several years since he and I have broken up, he still holds a special place in my heart. I hope he's happy wherever he is."
"And are you happy? Right now?"
He brushes my hair with his hand. "Of course I'm happy right now. How could I not be?" He leans down and kisses my cheek. "Are you?"
"Never been happier."
He wraps his arms around me and we hug tightly. As we pull away, he whispers in my ear, "Pleasant dreams."
"You too."
I roll over and he spoons me from behind. We drift off to sleep.
vater292
Slut
- Joined
- Oct 21, 2011
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Amazing update! Definitely worth the wait. Further look into James past relationships. I think it will be interesting to find out why James and Jeremy broke-up. Kind of surprising James opened up that much about his prior relationship now, with what had just transpired with his brother. This was a very emotional time for him.
72-Jay
Daydreamer
Good update, and as vater said, worth the wait
Looking forward to part 45
Looking forward to part 45
Craiger
JUB Addict
How wonderful to return from a week away and find our guys settling in for the wedding. Vater is right. It will be interesting to delve deeper into James' past. There is a bit of mystery surrounding his and Jeremy's breakup. Excited and anxious to read more, AG.
Craiger
Craiger
The next part is written! I've been incredibly busy as of late, but have seemed to conquer my writer's block and finished out Part 45. It just needs to go through proofing before I post it. I kind of surprised myself; it's MUCH longer than any of the other parts I've written. In fact, it's almost twice as long as the longest part I've written so far. So, when I get around to posting it (hopefully sometime during this week), you may want to devote a bit more time than usual if you want to read it all in one sitting. I believe it will be very captivating, so make sure you leave plenty of time!
Patrick and Damon's marriage has the focus now, but we'll definitely be hearing more about Jeremy in the future. There is a lot that Brad doesn't know about James's past and what makes him the way that he is. It's a big journey of discovery, and I'm glad to be a part of it.
Won't be long now, hopefully!
I'm so glad you and the others have come back part after part reading so enthusiastically, commenting, and wanting more! When I first started writing the beginnings of this story over seven years ago, I hoped it would reach a pretty wide audience. While I have no idea how many people have actually come across it here, just having you guys write back to me and tell me how much you're enjoying the story makes me feel really good inside and drives me to continue writing. So I will!
Patrick and Damon's marriage has the focus now, but we'll definitely be hearing more about Jeremy in the future. There is a lot that Brad doesn't know about James's past and what makes him the way that he is. It's a big journey of discovery, and I'm glad to be a part of it.
Good update, and as vater said, worth the wait
Looking forward to part 45
Won't be long now, hopefully!
I'm so glad you and the others have come back part after part reading so enthusiastically, commenting, and wanting more! When I first started writing the beginnings of this story over seven years ago, I hoped it would reach a pretty wide audience. While I have no idea how many people have actually come across it here, just having you guys write back to me and tell me how much you're enjoying the story makes me feel really good inside and drives me to continue writing. So I will!
So, since I wrote much more material than normal, I've decided to split the next part into two. The first part is ready and will be here momentarily. The next part I hope to have finished up for you guys by the end of the week. I feel I should keep the parts within a length you guys are used to, so that's why I decided to post the next part in a "two-part series" if you will.
Thanks, Auto! You won't be waiting much longer!
I'm happy another commenter has joined in! I'm glad you have enjoyed the story so far and look forward to the next parts. Sometimes I worry a bit too much about how my writing comes across, but you guys all seem to enjoy it, so I just need to keep doing what I've been doing the whole time.
Thanks for the comments, and happy reading!
Pleased to see that there is another chapter almost ready - eagerly awaiting its publication
Thanks, Auto! You won't be waiting much longer!
I'm happy another commenter has joined in! I'm glad you have enjoyed the story so far and look forward to the next parts. Sometimes I worry a bit too much about how my writing comes across, but you guys all seem to enjoy it, so I just need to keep doing what I've been doing the whole time.
Thanks for the comments, and happy reading!
Aaaaaaand I will make you wait no longer!
Part 45
I stir awake from the feeling of James caressing my chest. I turn my head to look in his direction.
He cracks a smile. "Good morning, cutie."
"I don't think I'll ever get tired of hearing you say that."
"I'll never get tired of saying it." He brushes my cheek, then continues caressing my chest and plays with my nipple. "How'd you sleep?"
"Pretty well, I guess, considering how exhausted we both were yesterday." I open my mouth wide to let out a yawn.
"You look like you could use something to help wake you up."
He suddenly slides his hand from my chest down to my morning wood and begins stroking me vigorously. I gasp from the sensation, but his hand feels amazing. I can sense myself very quickly getting close - not surprising, considering we haven't messed around for a few nights. Right before I climax, James rolls over on his side and shoves his tongue down my throat, and we passionately kiss, which pushes me over the edge. After my own orgasm subsides, James lies flat and finishes himself off.
I turn to him. "When you said 'something to help wake me up', I wasn't quite expecting that. I was imagining something more along the lines of coffee."
He smiles at me. "Coffee certainly doesn't have the same effect."
"You're right about that."
We kiss again for a few seconds before heading to the bathroom to shower and get ready for the day. We get dressed and head out to the living area.
"Mornin', sleepyheads," Charles greets us as we make our appearance. It looks like we are the last ones to get up.
"Good morning," James replies back.
Hadim is sitting at the counter. "We ordered some fresh fruit from room service and there's coffee in the pot."
Freddie remarks, "It's all organic!"
"Grand!" I grab a few pieces of fruit and pour myself a cup of coffee - well, with the way I drink coffee, it's more like a cup of milk with just a few drops of coffee and lots of sugar. James follows my lead and starts grabbing some fruit and a cup of coffee.
Patrick turns our way. "How'd you guys sleep?"
James answers him, "Very well, thank you. The bed is very comfortable."
I nod in agreement. "This whole hotel is magnificent. Thank you so much for inviting James and me to stay with you guys."
"No, thank you for being here with us. You guys are great company; we love having you around."
Damon remarks, "Yes, but we need to get a move-on. Busy day ahead."
* * * * *
After getting dressed, the seven of us pile into two cars and head to the church. We find parking spots and head inside.
A man and woman are standing near the altar, talking to a minister. They are all in their fifties, perhaps sixties. The woman frantically waves her arms around as she speaks. "Now, you will make sure to follow the exact order of events I've provided to you, yes?"
The minister looks timidly at the woman. "Yes, ma'am. I'll be sure to." The minister glances our way, which prompts the couple to do the same. The woman raises her arms in the air, almost hitting the minister with her left hand. "Boys!" The three then begin making their way to us.
I whisper to James, "Who is that crazy woman?"
Patrick overhears me and answers, "That would be my mother."
"Oh." I feel my cheeks starting to burn. "Sorry."
He chuckles. "Don't be."
The minister and Patrick's parents reach us. His mom hugs Patrick and Damon and smothers them with kisses. "You boys look so handsome!"
"Er, thanks, Mom. What are you and Dad doing here so early?"
"I have to make sure everything will be perfect for tomorrow!" She pinches Patrick's cheek. "Only the best for my wonderful son."
"Thanks, Mom. I appreciate it. I want you to meet some of my friends. This is James, and this is his boyfriend, Brad. James and Brad, this is Olivia, my mother, and Troy, my father."
James and I begin to reach out to shake Troy and Olivia's hands, but they both open up their arms and hug us instead. "We're pleased to meet you boys. Any friends of Patrick and Damon are family to us."
Patrick looks at Damon. "Are your parents on the way?"
"Yep. They should be here in about 10 minutes or so."
The minister speaks up. "Well, while we wait for them, is there anything else we need to go over for the ceremony, Mrs Johnson?"
"Oh yes, Minister! Now that I have the two future husbands here, we can find out how everyone should stand so that the light hits them in just the right way. Follow me, boys!"
Patrick and Damon walk behind Olivia, Troy, and the minister up to the altar. The rest of the guys and myself find seats near the front of the church and watch as Olivia positions everyone, even the minister, a few inches this way, and then a few inches that way, until everyone is exactly where she wants them. It's hard for me to stifle my laughter, but I manage somehow.
We hear the doors at the back of the church open and see another man and woman enter. These must be Damon's parents. They rush up to the front of the church, and the guys all stand up to greet them.
"We're so sorry we're late."
Damon hugs and kisses his mother, then shakes hands with his father. "Nonsense. We only just got here a few minutes ago ourselves."
Patrick greets Damon's parents, as well. Damon then introduces James and me to his parents, Barry and Geraldine.
The minister speaks up. "Now that everyone is here, Patrick, Damon, are you ready to do the run-through?"
Patrick answers him, "Yes, Minister, I believe we are. Mom?"
"We're following you!"
Patrick, Damon, Troy, Olivia, Barry, and Geraldine make their way to the back of the church. A few seconds later, an organ starts playing, and I just about jump out of my seat. I look back and notice an organist perched up on a balcony way in the back of the church. I didn't know we'd be having organ music!
Troy and Olivia are the first ones to walk up the aisle. When they reach the front, they stand to the left of the altar. Barry and Geraldine follow and stand to the right of the altar once they make their way up. Everyone stands as Patrick and Damon walk up, and we all sit as they meet the minister at the front and the organ music comes to an end.
"Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the joining of Patrick Johnson and Damon Brown in holy matrimony. Marriage is the utmost and deepest commitment two people can make to one another. Patrick and Damon have decided to be united in that commitment together, and have chosen to do so in the eyes of their families, friends, and God." He then looks at Patrick. "Do you have your vows ready?"
"Yes." Patrick then looks straight into Damon's eyes and takes his hands. "My dearest Damon, there is no one else in this wide, wide world who I would want to marry more than you. You have been by my side through my happiest moment and my darkest hour. If it weren't for you, I don't know where I'd be today. I probably wouldn't be here at all. You have given me so much, without asking for anything in return. But I am ready to give my life, my love, myself, my everything to you."
"Patrick, I have never felt closer to anyone else than I have to you. You have taught me so many things about myself, and you bring out the best in me. You showed me that I can love and care for someone else when he needs it most, to put someone else's needs above mine, and that I'm strong enough to stay by your side in the best times and the worst times. My greatest wish is to experience all that life has to offer with you by my side."
The minister speaks up, "And now for the rings."
James rests his hand on my thigh. I take his hand in mine.
Patrick pretends to slip a ring on Damon's hand. "Damon, I give this ring to you as a symbol of my love and devotion. I ask that you wear it in remembrance of this day, our life before, and the many years to come."
The minister looks at Damon. "Damon, do you take Patrick to be your lawfully-wedded husband, to love and honor him in everything he does, to be honest with him, faithful to him, and to remain by his side, until death do you part?"
"I do." Damon then slips an imaginary ring onto Patrick's hand. "Patrick, I give this ring to you as a reminder of my undying support and love for you. As you wear it, always know that I will continue to love and support you, no matter the circumstances."
"Patrick, do you take Damon to be your lawfully-wedded husband, to love and honor him in everything he does, to be honest with him, faithful to him, and to remain by his side, until death do you part?"
"I do."
"By the power and authority vested in me by your friends, family, all those who support you, and God, I now pronounce you husband and husband. I invite you to kiss each other and take your first steps as a loving, devoted, and married couple."
As Patrick and Damon embrace each other and kiss, the organist starts playing again, and we all stand and applaud. Patrick and Damon hold hands as they walk to the back of the church, followed by Barry and Geraldine, then Troy and Olivia, and finally the minister.
As the organ music dies down, I turn to James. "Wow, those vows! They must really love each other."
He chuckles. "They fucking better - they're getting married tomorrow!"
* * * * *
We say our goodbyes to Troy, Olivia, Barry, and Geraldine after a very filling and enjoyable rehearsal dinner, and the seven of us head back to the hotel. James and I go to our bedroom to change out of our suits.
James walks up to me and starts undoing my tie. "You know, Brad, you look absolutely fucking handsome in a suit."
"I'm glad you think so, because these shoes hurt. It's almost like wearing high heels."
He laughs. "You've worn high heels?"
"I don't make a habit out of it, but I have been known to be in a drag show or two."
"Won any awards?"
"I'm undefeated."
"Well, then, I hope you can stand to wear the suit at least one more day."
I smile at him. "I think I can manage."
"Good. Now let's get you out of the rest of these clothes." He continues to undo my shirt, and then my pants.
"Can I ask you something?"
"Sure, Brad, what is it?"
"Patrick and Damon's vows to each other seemed really deep and profound. Why? What caused them to be so devoted to one another?"
"Umm..." James pauses, and then takes a deep breath. "That's probably something you should ask them."
"Oh, I hardly know them. I'd feel uncomfortable bringing it up."
"Well, let's go out there and I'll bring it up, and they can fill you in on everything."
"You sure?"
"Yeah, and if it'll make you feel better, I'll make you a lemon drop."
I give him a kiss. "How can I say no to that?"
He winks at me. "You can't."
We continue taking off our suits, get dressed in regular clothes, and join the rest of the guys outside. James mixes up a lemon drop and hands it to me, then sits next to me on the couch.
To be continued...
Part 45
I stir awake from the feeling of James caressing my chest. I turn my head to look in his direction.
He cracks a smile. "Good morning, cutie."
"I don't think I'll ever get tired of hearing you say that."
"I'll never get tired of saying it." He brushes my cheek, then continues caressing my chest and plays with my nipple. "How'd you sleep?"
"Pretty well, I guess, considering how exhausted we both were yesterday." I open my mouth wide to let out a yawn.
"You look like you could use something to help wake you up."
He suddenly slides his hand from my chest down to my morning wood and begins stroking me vigorously. I gasp from the sensation, but his hand feels amazing. I can sense myself very quickly getting close - not surprising, considering we haven't messed around for a few nights. Right before I climax, James rolls over on his side and shoves his tongue down my throat, and we passionately kiss, which pushes me over the edge. After my own orgasm subsides, James lies flat and finishes himself off.
I turn to him. "When you said 'something to help wake me up', I wasn't quite expecting that. I was imagining something more along the lines of coffee."
He smiles at me. "Coffee certainly doesn't have the same effect."
"You're right about that."
We kiss again for a few seconds before heading to the bathroom to shower and get ready for the day. We get dressed and head out to the living area.
"Mornin', sleepyheads," Charles greets us as we make our appearance. It looks like we are the last ones to get up.
"Good morning," James replies back.
Hadim is sitting at the counter. "We ordered some fresh fruit from room service and there's coffee in the pot."
Freddie remarks, "It's all organic!"
"Grand!" I grab a few pieces of fruit and pour myself a cup of coffee - well, with the way I drink coffee, it's more like a cup of milk with just a few drops of coffee and lots of sugar. James follows my lead and starts grabbing some fruit and a cup of coffee.
Patrick turns our way. "How'd you guys sleep?"
James answers him, "Very well, thank you. The bed is very comfortable."
I nod in agreement. "This whole hotel is magnificent. Thank you so much for inviting James and me to stay with you guys."
"No, thank you for being here with us. You guys are great company; we love having you around."
Damon remarks, "Yes, but we need to get a move-on. Busy day ahead."
* * * * *
After getting dressed, the seven of us pile into two cars and head to the church. We find parking spots and head inside.
A man and woman are standing near the altar, talking to a minister. They are all in their fifties, perhaps sixties. The woman frantically waves her arms around as she speaks. "Now, you will make sure to follow the exact order of events I've provided to you, yes?"
The minister looks timidly at the woman. "Yes, ma'am. I'll be sure to." The minister glances our way, which prompts the couple to do the same. The woman raises her arms in the air, almost hitting the minister with her left hand. "Boys!" The three then begin making their way to us.
I whisper to James, "Who is that crazy woman?"
Patrick overhears me and answers, "That would be my mother."
"Oh." I feel my cheeks starting to burn. "Sorry."
He chuckles. "Don't be."
The minister and Patrick's parents reach us. His mom hugs Patrick and Damon and smothers them with kisses. "You boys look so handsome!"
"Er, thanks, Mom. What are you and Dad doing here so early?"
"I have to make sure everything will be perfect for tomorrow!" She pinches Patrick's cheek. "Only the best for my wonderful son."
"Thanks, Mom. I appreciate it. I want you to meet some of my friends. This is James, and this is his boyfriend, Brad. James and Brad, this is Olivia, my mother, and Troy, my father."
James and I begin to reach out to shake Troy and Olivia's hands, but they both open up their arms and hug us instead. "We're pleased to meet you boys. Any friends of Patrick and Damon are family to us."
Patrick looks at Damon. "Are your parents on the way?"
"Yep. They should be here in about 10 minutes or so."
The minister speaks up. "Well, while we wait for them, is there anything else we need to go over for the ceremony, Mrs Johnson?"
"Oh yes, Minister! Now that I have the two future husbands here, we can find out how everyone should stand so that the light hits them in just the right way. Follow me, boys!"
Patrick and Damon walk behind Olivia, Troy, and the minister up to the altar. The rest of the guys and myself find seats near the front of the church and watch as Olivia positions everyone, even the minister, a few inches this way, and then a few inches that way, until everyone is exactly where she wants them. It's hard for me to stifle my laughter, but I manage somehow.
We hear the doors at the back of the church open and see another man and woman enter. These must be Damon's parents. They rush up to the front of the church, and the guys all stand up to greet them.
"We're so sorry we're late."
Damon hugs and kisses his mother, then shakes hands with his father. "Nonsense. We only just got here a few minutes ago ourselves."
Patrick greets Damon's parents, as well. Damon then introduces James and me to his parents, Barry and Geraldine.
The minister speaks up. "Now that everyone is here, Patrick, Damon, are you ready to do the run-through?"
Patrick answers him, "Yes, Minister, I believe we are. Mom?"
"We're following you!"
Patrick, Damon, Troy, Olivia, Barry, and Geraldine make their way to the back of the church. A few seconds later, an organ starts playing, and I just about jump out of my seat. I look back and notice an organist perched up on a balcony way in the back of the church. I didn't know we'd be having organ music!
Troy and Olivia are the first ones to walk up the aisle. When they reach the front, they stand to the left of the altar. Barry and Geraldine follow and stand to the right of the altar once they make their way up. Everyone stands as Patrick and Damon walk up, and we all sit as they meet the minister at the front and the organ music comes to an end.
"Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the joining of Patrick Johnson and Damon Brown in holy matrimony. Marriage is the utmost and deepest commitment two people can make to one another. Patrick and Damon have decided to be united in that commitment together, and have chosen to do so in the eyes of their families, friends, and God." He then looks at Patrick. "Do you have your vows ready?"
"Yes." Patrick then looks straight into Damon's eyes and takes his hands. "My dearest Damon, there is no one else in this wide, wide world who I would want to marry more than you. You have been by my side through my happiest moment and my darkest hour. If it weren't for you, I don't know where I'd be today. I probably wouldn't be here at all. You have given me so much, without asking for anything in return. But I am ready to give my life, my love, myself, my everything to you."
"Patrick, I have never felt closer to anyone else than I have to you. You have taught me so many things about myself, and you bring out the best in me. You showed me that I can love and care for someone else when he needs it most, to put someone else's needs above mine, and that I'm strong enough to stay by your side in the best times and the worst times. My greatest wish is to experience all that life has to offer with you by my side."
The minister speaks up, "And now for the rings."
James rests his hand on my thigh. I take his hand in mine.
Patrick pretends to slip a ring on Damon's hand. "Damon, I give this ring to you as a symbol of my love and devotion. I ask that you wear it in remembrance of this day, our life before, and the many years to come."
The minister looks at Damon. "Damon, do you take Patrick to be your lawfully-wedded husband, to love and honor him in everything he does, to be honest with him, faithful to him, and to remain by his side, until death do you part?"
"I do." Damon then slips an imaginary ring onto Patrick's hand. "Patrick, I give this ring to you as a reminder of my undying support and love for you. As you wear it, always know that I will continue to love and support you, no matter the circumstances."
"Patrick, do you take Damon to be your lawfully-wedded husband, to love and honor him in everything he does, to be honest with him, faithful to him, and to remain by his side, until death do you part?"
"I do."
"By the power and authority vested in me by your friends, family, all those who support you, and God, I now pronounce you husband and husband. I invite you to kiss each other and take your first steps as a loving, devoted, and married couple."
As Patrick and Damon embrace each other and kiss, the organist starts playing again, and we all stand and applaud. Patrick and Damon hold hands as they walk to the back of the church, followed by Barry and Geraldine, then Troy and Olivia, and finally the minister.
As the organ music dies down, I turn to James. "Wow, those vows! They must really love each other."
He chuckles. "They fucking better - they're getting married tomorrow!"
* * * * *
We say our goodbyes to Troy, Olivia, Barry, and Geraldine after a very filling and enjoyable rehearsal dinner, and the seven of us head back to the hotel. James and I go to our bedroom to change out of our suits.
James walks up to me and starts undoing my tie. "You know, Brad, you look absolutely fucking handsome in a suit."
"I'm glad you think so, because these shoes hurt. It's almost like wearing high heels."
He laughs. "You've worn high heels?"
"I don't make a habit out of it, but I have been known to be in a drag show or two."
"Won any awards?"
"I'm undefeated."
"Well, then, I hope you can stand to wear the suit at least one more day."
I smile at him. "I think I can manage."
"Good. Now let's get you out of the rest of these clothes." He continues to undo my shirt, and then my pants.
"Can I ask you something?"
"Sure, Brad, what is it?"
"Patrick and Damon's vows to each other seemed really deep and profound. Why? What caused them to be so devoted to one another?"
"Umm..." James pauses, and then takes a deep breath. "That's probably something you should ask them."
"Oh, I hardly know them. I'd feel uncomfortable bringing it up."
"Well, let's go out there and I'll bring it up, and they can fill you in on everything."
"You sure?"
"Yeah, and if it'll make you feel better, I'll make you a lemon drop."
I give him a kiss. "How can I say no to that?"
He winks at me. "You can't."
We continue taking off our suits, get dressed in regular clothes, and join the rest of the guys outside. James mixes up a lemon drop and hands it to me, then sits next to me on the couch.
To be continued...
Craiger
JUB Addict
I love it. I can just see Olivia guiding and directing this wedding as though she had been nominated for an Oscar. I'm sure this is fairly common for the minister, as it should be. Weddings need to be perfect. The vows are inspiring and as Brad says, really deep.
But here we have a bit of new trivia about Brad.....wearing high heels and being an undefeated winner as a two time drag personality. How fun it that?????? Serve me up a lemon drop, AG.
Craiger
But here we have a bit of new trivia about Brad.....wearing high heels and being an undefeated winner as a two time drag personality. How fun it that?????? Serve me up a lemon drop, AG.
Craiger
You keep expanding the dimensions of your story and inserting subtopics to explore at a later time. You keep impressing us with the story line itself and the quality of the writing. Thanks for your commitment to "Brad" and to our enjoyment and entertainment. Drag? What the fuck was that? Oh well, As the World Turns!
^Thanks Craiger and truxtun! I appreciate your comments, as always. The drag thing - not sure if that's going to turn into anything more than a little factoid about Brad. The story goes wherever my typing fingers take it at the time. I like to keep it interesting, but I hope I strike a good balance with those extra dimensions. Sometimes I lose interest in stories that leave too many threads unraveled.
The next part will be ready for posting tomorrow. Until then!
The next part will be ready for posting tomorrow. Until then!
Part 46
James turns to Patrick. "So, Brad wants to know more about you and Damon."
"Sure, Brad, what would you like to know?"
I give James a mean look. "Thanks for making this easy for me."
He winks at me. "You're welcome, babe."
I take a large sip of my lemon drop, and then look back at Patrick, who is patiently waiting for me to continue. "I was just blown away by how solemn and deep your vows were to each other. I'm curious and want to know more about how you two have gotten so close."
"Of course, we'd be glad to share our story with you." He looks at Damon, and they grasp each other's hands. They seem like they've told this story quite a few times. Patrick starts, "I knew I was gay and came out at a pretty early age - it was around seventh or eighth grade if I remember correctly. My parents probably knew that I was gay even earlier than I did. They always accepted me. That was part of the problem, that they were so nonchalant."
I finish taking another sip. "How could that be a bad thing?"
"Well, I developed a pretty big crush on one of my classmates in high school - a big crush. His name was Adam." Patrick gets a dreamy look in his eyes. "He was tall, kind of a dirty blonde, played football... and he was straight-"
Damon butts in. "Of course."
"-So, he found out - everyone found out - and I was ridiculed, harassed, called names, the whole nine yards. I fell into a depression, and then eventually I found Damon." He squeezes Damon's hand. The two look at each other, then Patrick looks back at me. "He hadn't come out yet to anyone else, but he saw how much I was struggling, and we became really good friends. He even had a bit of a crush on me as well, right honey?"
"Oh my God, did I. Of course, Patrick didn't want to have anything to do with me romantically - he was still way too infatuated with his straight guy. Heaven knows why..."
Patrick shrugs and smiles. "I guess I just really wanted what I couldn't have."
Damon nods. "That must have been why I was so into you at the time. You were in love with someone else, but I just wanted to rush in and fix everything for you." He looks at me. "I couldn't bear to see him that sad. I had to wonder: If this is what I'm going to have to go through, I'm never going to come out of the closet. I wanted to make everything better so that I could believe things could be better for me when I came out."
"But they didn't get better - at least not back then. The harassment continued. I couldn't turn to anyone, not even my parents. Though they accepted me, they didn't think the bullying and name-calling could be as harmful as it was. They thought I was overreacting. I couldn't confide in anyone other than Damon, but it started getting to be too unbearable for him to take it all on."
Damon sighs. "I tried. I tried to be there for him, but I fell in love with him hard. He would always turn down my romantic advances because he still had a crush on his straight guy. It was so difficult for me to be a friend and listen to him and give him advice when I wanted so badly to hold him, hug him, and kiss him. It got so hard for me that I eventually had to put a stop to it and say goodbye. That's the one and only time it happened, and it will never happen again."
I take the last sip of my drink. "What happened next?"
Patrick takes the story from there. "After he called off the friendship, I was left with no one at all. The bullying continued, my parents never took me seriously, and I could not turn to anyone else. I was all alone, and my depression got worse. I had nowhere to go. I ran all out of options - except for one."
I covered my mouth. "Oh God."
"After coming home from school one day, I went to the bathroom, opened the medicine cabinet, grabbed the first pill bottle I saw, and swallowed everything inside."
Silence pierces the air while the gravity of Patrick's story sets in. James places his hand on my shoulder and takes the empty martini glass from my hand. My other hand is still covering my mouth.
"Another drink, babe?"
I nod, but remain focused on Patrick. He takes a deep breath and goes on. "Next thing I remember, I woke up in a dark room with odd colored lights to my side. I was in the worst pain imaginable, but I could distinctly feel an itch on my arm. I moved to scratch it and noticed something attached to it. I realized it was an IV, and that the colored lights were part of a vitals monitoring machine. I was in the hospital."
I am awestruck. "So the doctors must have gotten all the pills out of you."
"They did. The pain was from the stomach pumping. I'm really glad I wasn't conscious when they were doing that to me."
"So who found you?"
"Damon."
"Damon? I thought he cut off his friendship with you."
Patrick looks at Damon, who continues the story. "Earlier that day, I don't know why, but I had a very compelling desire to talk to Patrick. I don't know if something within me wanted to be friends with him again, or to see how he was doing, I don't know - I was just driven to talk to him for some reason.
"I went over to his house after school the same day he overdosed. His parents worked on the other side of town, and wouldn't be home for a few hours, so Patrick was the only person who could open the door. I knocked and knocked, and after he didn't answer, I started banging loudly and begged him to open the door. He never responded, of course, but something inside me told me to try the doorknob. I thought it was foolish; both of us always had a habit of locking the door when we got home. But I tried it anyway. And it opened.
"I called out to him. 'Patrick, Patrick!' No answer. I looked in his bedroom, and when I noticed he wasn't there, checked the bathroom, and saw him on the floor, with the empty pill bottle in his hand."
James returns with my drink and sits next to me.
Damon goes on. "All that had happened during our friendship - the longing desire to be with him, the unreturned romantic gestures, all the hurt - it all just went away. I wasn't angry or sad at him anymore. I wanted to - needed to - be his friend again, needed to be his source of support. I was shocked for a few seconds, but knew I had to act fast. I grabbed the nearest phone and called 9-1-1 and told them what was going on, and the only thing I could do until they arrived was lay down next to Patrick, hold his hand, and keep telling him, if he could hear me, to hold on and not let go.
"The time seemed to pass slower than ever, but the ambulance got there and the paramedics took over. I had told the 9-1-1 operator where Patrick's parents worked, and they had already gotten in contact with them and they were on their way home and got there minutes after the paramedics. There was only room for Patrick and one other person in the ambulance, so Olivia went with him and Troy took me in his car and we followed the ambulance to the hospital.
"They had to wheel Patrick into the emergency room, and there just wasn't enough space for Troy, Olivia, and me to be with Patrick at the time. We all hugged each other and they just kept telling me how brave I was and thanked me for how quickly I acted."
Patrick speaks up. "And all three of them stayed at the hospital until I woke up in that dark room. After I realized where I was, I saw three dark figures sitting in chairs. I was a bit scared because I had no idea who they were at first, but after I had a bit of time to clear my head, I realized Damon was there along with my parents. I called out to them a few times, and they woke up."
I look at Damon. "Oh my God. How was that like for you when he woke up?"
"I seriously thought I would never hear him speak again - once when our friendship fell apart, and now this. When I heard him call my name, I can't explain to you the feeling of happiness and relief I had."
"So all three of them get up and stand next to me and are just so ecstatic that I came through and was OK, even though I was in a hell of a lot of pain. I got hugs and kisses from my parents, but Damon still kept his distance. My parents decided to give Damon and me some time to ourselves to talk in private, so they walked out of the room."
"I didn't know how Patrick would react to my being there. We hadn't spoken in so long. He asked me to come closer to him, and he reached out his hand, which I took in mine. He looked straight at me and told me he was really glad I was there. I told him I was really glad he was alive. I told him I found him on the floor and was the one who called 9-1-1."
"I felt so guilty that I had inundated him with so much of my drama, and now here he was being my hero and saving my life. I told him how sorry I was for everything that had happened between us, but he just-"
"-I just told him to hush and that none of that mattered anymore. The only thing that mattered was that he was alive. And then, I don't know what came over me, but I leaned down and kissed him on the lips. Right after I realized what I had done, I stood straight up and apologized for kissing him, but I wasn't apologizing for long, because he reached up and pulled my head back down, and we kissed again."
Patrick wraps his arms around Damon. "And we've been kissing ever since!" They then kiss each other a few times and hug tightly for a few moments. James grabs my hand and squeezes it.
After Patrick and Damon break their hug, I speak up. "Thank you guys so much for sharing that with me. I have so much of a better understanding of why you love each other so much."
Damon looks at Patrick. "I almost lost him once; I don't want to lose him again."
Patrick nods. "Neither did my parents. Ever since that day, they really began caring about how the others in school were treating me, and they made sure to support me in everything I did. They have gone to great lengths even with this wedding. My mother can be quite overbearing at times, but it's only because she wants to make sure she shows me how much she really cares now. Dad, too."
Damon continues, "So, you can obviously see why I've chosen to get my PhD in psychology. My friendship with Patrick made a great impact on me, and it taught me that what I really want to do is help others overcome their most difficult challenges."
"The world needs someone like Damon. No one needs to go through what he and my parents went through that day. But, as tough as that day was, it brought all of us so much closer together, and I'm really glad it happened."
Damon looks at Patrick. "So am I. And tomorrow I'll be marrying the man of my dreams!"
Patrick smiles. "Oh, and who is that, babe?"
We all laugh as Damon playfully punches Patrick's shoulder. "You, silly!"
James stands up as I finish the rest of my second drink. "Well, guys, I know we have a long and eventful day tomorrow. We should all get our beauty rest - especially you two."
Patrick speaks up. "Yes, I was just thinking the same thing. Telling that story always takes a lot out of me."
Damon kisses Patrick's cheek. "But I'm so glad you're still alive to tell it."
Patrick kisses him on the lips, then looks at us. "Have a good night, guys; we'll see you in the morning."
James and I retire to our bedroom and get ready for bed. We both take off all of our clothes and crawl under the sheets.
I wrap my arm around his shoulder and place my hand on his chest. "I don't know what I would do if I ever came home to you lying on the floor after overdosing."
He looks up at me. "That's not something you ever have to worry about. But if that ever did happen, there would be no one I'd want at my side more than you."
I lean down and kiss him. "I'm really glad they're getting married tomorrow. If anyone deserves it, it's them."
He nods. "You're right. Those two found love out of the worst circumstances. Just goes to show you anything is possible."
"You have a great group of friends. I really appreciate you for introducing them to me and for bringing me here."
"Of course! Now, save all that sentiment for tomorrow. We need to get to sleep."
I chuckle. "All right. I love you, James."
He turns to me and kisses me. "I love you, too, Brad." He turns back around and I wrap my arms around him and we fall asleep.
James turns to Patrick. "So, Brad wants to know more about you and Damon."
"Sure, Brad, what would you like to know?"
I give James a mean look. "Thanks for making this easy for me."
He winks at me. "You're welcome, babe."
I take a large sip of my lemon drop, and then look back at Patrick, who is patiently waiting for me to continue. "I was just blown away by how solemn and deep your vows were to each other. I'm curious and want to know more about how you two have gotten so close."
"Of course, we'd be glad to share our story with you." He looks at Damon, and they grasp each other's hands. They seem like they've told this story quite a few times. Patrick starts, "I knew I was gay and came out at a pretty early age - it was around seventh or eighth grade if I remember correctly. My parents probably knew that I was gay even earlier than I did. They always accepted me. That was part of the problem, that they were so nonchalant."
I finish taking another sip. "How could that be a bad thing?"
"Well, I developed a pretty big crush on one of my classmates in high school - a big crush. His name was Adam." Patrick gets a dreamy look in his eyes. "He was tall, kind of a dirty blonde, played football... and he was straight-"
Damon butts in. "Of course."
"-So, he found out - everyone found out - and I was ridiculed, harassed, called names, the whole nine yards. I fell into a depression, and then eventually I found Damon." He squeezes Damon's hand. The two look at each other, then Patrick looks back at me. "He hadn't come out yet to anyone else, but he saw how much I was struggling, and we became really good friends. He even had a bit of a crush on me as well, right honey?"
"Oh my God, did I. Of course, Patrick didn't want to have anything to do with me romantically - he was still way too infatuated with his straight guy. Heaven knows why..."
Patrick shrugs and smiles. "I guess I just really wanted what I couldn't have."
Damon nods. "That must have been why I was so into you at the time. You were in love with someone else, but I just wanted to rush in and fix everything for you." He looks at me. "I couldn't bear to see him that sad. I had to wonder: If this is what I'm going to have to go through, I'm never going to come out of the closet. I wanted to make everything better so that I could believe things could be better for me when I came out."
"But they didn't get better - at least not back then. The harassment continued. I couldn't turn to anyone, not even my parents. Though they accepted me, they didn't think the bullying and name-calling could be as harmful as it was. They thought I was overreacting. I couldn't confide in anyone other than Damon, but it started getting to be too unbearable for him to take it all on."
Damon sighs. "I tried. I tried to be there for him, but I fell in love with him hard. He would always turn down my romantic advances because he still had a crush on his straight guy. It was so difficult for me to be a friend and listen to him and give him advice when I wanted so badly to hold him, hug him, and kiss him. It got so hard for me that I eventually had to put a stop to it and say goodbye. That's the one and only time it happened, and it will never happen again."
I take the last sip of my drink. "What happened next?"
Patrick takes the story from there. "After he called off the friendship, I was left with no one at all. The bullying continued, my parents never took me seriously, and I could not turn to anyone else. I was all alone, and my depression got worse. I had nowhere to go. I ran all out of options - except for one."
I covered my mouth. "Oh God."
"After coming home from school one day, I went to the bathroom, opened the medicine cabinet, grabbed the first pill bottle I saw, and swallowed everything inside."
Silence pierces the air while the gravity of Patrick's story sets in. James places his hand on my shoulder and takes the empty martini glass from my hand. My other hand is still covering my mouth.
"Another drink, babe?"
I nod, but remain focused on Patrick. He takes a deep breath and goes on. "Next thing I remember, I woke up in a dark room with odd colored lights to my side. I was in the worst pain imaginable, but I could distinctly feel an itch on my arm. I moved to scratch it and noticed something attached to it. I realized it was an IV, and that the colored lights were part of a vitals monitoring machine. I was in the hospital."
I am awestruck. "So the doctors must have gotten all the pills out of you."
"They did. The pain was from the stomach pumping. I'm really glad I wasn't conscious when they were doing that to me."
"So who found you?"
"Damon."
"Damon? I thought he cut off his friendship with you."
Patrick looks at Damon, who continues the story. "Earlier that day, I don't know why, but I had a very compelling desire to talk to Patrick. I don't know if something within me wanted to be friends with him again, or to see how he was doing, I don't know - I was just driven to talk to him for some reason.
"I went over to his house after school the same day he overdosed. His parents worked on the other side of town, and wouldn't be home for a few hours, so Patrick was the only person who could open the door. I knocked and knocked, and after he didn't answer, I started banging loudly and begged him to open the door. He never responded, of course, but something inside me told me to try the doorknob. I thought it was foolish; both of us always had a habit of locking the door when we got home. But I tried it anyway. And it opened.
"I called out to him. 'Patrick, Patrick!' No answer. I looked in his bedroom, and when I noticed he wasn't there, checked the bathroom, and saw him on the floor, with the empty pill bottle in his hand."
James returns with my drink and sits next to me.
Damon goes on. "All that had happened during our friendship - the longing desire to be with him, the unreturned romantic gestures, all the hurt - it all just went away. I wasn't angry or sad at him anymore. I wanted to - needed to - be his friend again, needed to be his source of support. I was shocked for a few seconds, but knew I had to act fast. I grabbed the nearest phone and called 9-1-1 and told them what was going on, and the only thing I could do until they arrived was lay down next to Patrick, hold his hand, and keep telling him, if he could hear me, to hold on and not let go.
"The time seemed to pass slower than ever, but the ambulance got there and the paramedics took over. I had told the 9-1-1 operator where Patrick's parents worked, and they had already gotten in contact with them and they were on their way home and got there minutes after the paramedics. There was only room for Patrick and one other person in the ambulance, so Olivia went with him and Troy took me in his car and we followed the ambulance to the hospital.
"They had to wheel Patrick into the emergency room, and there just wasn't enough space for Troy, Olivia, and me to be with Patrick at the time. We all hugged each other and they just kept telling me how brave I was and thanked me for how quickly I acted."
Patrick speaks up. "And all three of them stayed at the hospital until I woke up in that dark room. After I realized where I was, I saw three dark figures sitting in chairs. I was a bit scared because I had no idea who they were at first, but after I had a bit of time to clear my head, I realized Damon was there along with my parents. I called out to them a few times, and they woke up."
I look at Damon. "Oh my God. How was that like for you when he woke up?"
"I seriously thought I would never hear him speak again - once when our friendship fell apart, and now this. When I heard him call my name, I can't explain to you the feeling of happiness and relief I had."
"So all three of them get up and stand next to me and are just so ecstatic that I came through and was OK, even though I was in a hell of a lot of pain. I got hugs and kisses from my parents, but Damon still kept his distance. My parents decided to give Damon and me some time to ourselves to talk in private, so they walked out of the room."
"I didn't know how Patrick would react to my being there. We hadn't spoken in so long. He asked me to come closer to him, and he reached out his hand, which I took in mine. He looked straight at me and told me he was really glad I was there. I told him I was really glad he was alive. I told him I found him on the floor and was the one who called 9-1-1."
"I felt so guilty that I had inundated him with so much of my drama, and now here he was being my hero and saving my life. I told him how sorry I was for everything that had happened between us, but he just-"
"-I just told him to hush and that none of that mattered anymore. The only thing that mattered was that he was alive. And then, I don't know what came over me, but I leaned down and kissed him on the lips. Right after I realized what I had done, I stood straight up and apologized for kissing him, but I wasn't apologizing for long, because he reached up and pulled my head back down, and we kissed again."
Patrick wraps his arms around Damon. "And we've been kissing ever since!" They then kiss each other a few times and hug tightly for a few moments. James grabs my hand and squeezes it.
After Patrick and Damon break their hug, I speak up. "Thank you guys so much for sharing that with me. I have so much of a better understanding of why you love each other so much."
Damon looks at Patrick. "I almost lost him once; I don't want to lose him again."
Patrick nods. "Neither did my parents. Ever since that day, they really began caring about how the others in school were treating me, and they made sure to support me in everything I did. They have gone to great lengths even with this wedding. My mother can be quite overbearing at times, but it's only because she wants to make sure she shows me how much she really cares now. Dad, too."
Damon continues, "So, you can obviously see why I've chosen to get my PhD in psychology. My friendship with Patrick made a great impact on me, and it taught me that what I really want to do is help others overcome their most difficult challenges."
"The world needs someone like Damon. No one needs to go through what he and my parents went through that day. But, as tough as that day was, it brought all of us so much closer together, and I'm really glad it happened."
Damon looks at Patrick. "So am I. And tomorrow I'll be marrying the man of my dreams!"
Patrick smiles. "Oh, and who is that, babe?"
We all laugh as Damon playfully punches Patrick's shoulder. "You, silly!"
James stands up as I finish the rest of my second drink. "Well, guys, I know we have a long and eventful day tomorrow. We should all get our beauty rest - especially you two."
Patrick speaks up. "Yes, I was just thinking the same thing. Telling that story always takes a lot out of me."
Damon kisses Patrick's cheek. "But I'm so glad you're still alive to tell it."
Patrick kisses him on the lips, then looks at us. "Have a good night, guys; we'll see you in the morning."
James and I retire to our bedroom and get ready for bed. We both take off all of our clothes and crawl under the sheets.
I wrap my arm around his shoulder and place my hand on his chest. "I don't know what I would do if I ever came home to you lying on the floor after overdosing."
He looks up at me. "That's not something you ever have to worry about. But if that ever did happen, there would be no one I'd want at my side more than you."
I lean down and kiss him. "I'm really glad they're getting married tomorrow. If anyone deserves it, it's them."
He nods. "You're right. Those two found love out of the worst circumstances. Just goes to show you anything is possible."
"You have a great group of friends. I really appreciate you for introducing them to me and for bringing me here."
"Of course! Now, save all that sentiment for tomorrow. We need to get to sleep."
I chuckle. "All right. I love you, James."
He turns to me and kisses me. "I love you, too, Brad." He turns back around and I wrap my arms around him and we fall asleep.
Craiger
JUB Addict
That was an extremely touching chapter, AG. So much to show that fate steps in when least expected and the veil of love can be lifted exposing the true soul mate. Too often that is not the case, however for Patrick and Damon it seems the stars were in the correct alignment.Thanks for that inspiring chapter.Craiger
72-Jay
Daydreamer
Enjoyed reading the last 2 updates
The side story of Damon/Patrick got together was quite intense
lovely 'story within a story'
The side story of Damon/Patrick got together was quite intense
lovely 'story within a story'
I was so excited to post that last part I forgot to include the occasional music video that goes along with some of them... Whoops!
(You may want to turn down your volume a bit - the beginning of the video is kind of loud.)
Tenishia feat Chris Jones - Memory of a Dream [Unplugged Mix]
Sometimes it takes an extreme situation to remove those obstacles and reveal the truth. Luckily things turned out great for them.
I hope it was just the right amount of intensity. Most of the story is lighthearted and I definitely departed from that with Part 46. But it's a story that had to be told. I'm happy you enjoyed reading, 72!
Tell me what you really think, truxtun!
(You may want to turn down your volume a bit - the beginning of the video is kind of loud.)
Tenishia feat Chris Jones - Memory of a Dream [Unplugged Mix]
Sometimes it takes an extreme situation to remove those obstacles and reveal the truth. Luckily things turned out great for them.
Enjoyed reading the last 2 updates
The side story of Damon/Patrick got together was quite intense
lovely 'story within a story'
I hope it was just the right amount of intensity. Most of the story is lighthearted and I definitely departed from that with Part 46. But it's a story that had to be told. I'm happy you enjoyed reading, 72!
Tell me what you really think, truxtun!
