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Change at Gallery Place

Chapter Twenty-Two



“Tom, are you having any problems with the program?” Rory asked.

“No, none, bossman. Everything's going great. Why?”

“There have been some mainframe hits here in Alameda. Tucker in Operations reported multiple installation validation failures over the last two days. If you're not doing it, we have to wonder who is.”

“We've been running fine on a local ethernet only; we're not even plugged into a Freer box. No outside ports, except to the mother ship in Alameda, anywhere in the system.”

“How about if you check your net logs and see if there have been any … Jeez, I don't know … illegal connections? What's your personnel status?”

“There are five of us. We let one guy go; he wasn't a fit and he knew it as well as the rest of us did. He didn't leave pissed off or anything – that I know of. The rest of us are working away at the inventory. We're going to finish on time, I'm ninety-nine point nine percent sure. I'll check the logs and get back to you. Uh, Rory?”

“Yeah?”

“Are you still playing lacrosse?”

“Every night. The gang is even getting bigger. We had two scrimmages going at once last week.”

“I miss it.”

Rory laughed. “You must not be getting laid enough. Darren said you're swimming in cute guys there. Anything wrong?”

“No. Just a little homesick, I guess.”




Phil woke seriously hunger this time. Alex was sitting on the floor practicing fingering patterns on his mandolin. He had a book of music in front of him.

“Does the Russian Embassy has a refrigerator we could raid?”

“Of course. The Embassy has everything we could possibly need if we were besieged, for example, or trapped by some natural disaster, or limited in our movements ...”

“Alex, what's the short answer?”

“The short answer is no. There is a canteen, but ...”

“We don't have any zlotys.”

“Kopeks, you mean. Zlotys are Polish.”

“We going to my place. Bring your mandolin and music. What is it anyway?”

“They're Austrian and Bavarian folk songs. Dimitri wants me to learn them.”

They dressed and left the room. A man stopped Alexander in the hall and spoke briefly and sternly.

“That was Dimitri,” Alex whispered as they left the compound.

“You look upset. What did he say?”

“He said if you break my heart he will find you and kill you. I don't think he would really do that, but he can be very strict.”

A quick trip to the Giant provided the makings for a late morning breakfast. As they finished eating Phil laughed and licked his lips. “Do it again.” A brief kiss later, Phil continued, “Bacon-flavored kisses are the best. I'll clean up and you sing me an Austrian folk song.”

Alex had a clean, pleasant baritone and sang something in German that had a catchy tune and rhythm. It also seemed to have a dozen verses. Phil was finished with the dishes before Alex was finished with the song. He picked up his guitar and looked at the music. Alex pointed to the start of another verse. Phil played a rhythm bass style accompaniment to the sparkling tones of the mandolin and tried to follow the words.

“That would have sounded better on the guitar Ace smashed, instead of this one,” Phil said. “We weren't bad, though.”

Alex flipped some pages and held the book open. “Try this one, Phil. It's easy.”

It was easy; so was the next song. They sang several songs together.

“My German basically ...”

“... sucks,” Alex supplied. “Dein Deutsch ist verstunken. But I think we sounded pretty good. Maybe Dimitri won't kill you after all.”

“About this Dimitri business, Alex.”

“He's afraid I am falling in love with you. That would not be good for my career. I told him he has nothing to worry about.”

“You did?” Phil sounded disappointed.

“I don't know how long I'll be in Washington; I don't know where I'll go next; I don't care about getting hurt, but we don't seem to have many possibilities in front of us, do we?”

Phil looked into Alex's eyes. “I think you still have a little bacon grease right here.” Licking off the non-existent grease led quickly to Phil's bed but not to having sex. A few kisses later Phil got practical. “Alright, as long as you're not going to fall in love with me today, I need to see about getting myself a job. I can't have this strange guy I fuck now and then buying me breakfast all the time.”

“I'm just a strange guy you fuck now and then?”

“If falling in love isn't practical for you, why would it be for me? I mean … even if you are the best fuck of my life.”




“I'm going into the city, Edmund.” Alistair sounded resolute with much more confidence than he actually felt about facing the stresses of London.

“Alistair, it's Thursday; you wouldn't get any work done with just Friday left in the week. It would be a long trip for nothing. Wait until Sunday. I can go with you for a day or two.”

Alistair was not just willing but quietly delighted to follow Edmund's logic. “I could work Saturday, too; but I suppose your way does make more sense. Still, if I don't show my face at the Museum soon, they'll forget me. I can hear the snarky comments. “Poor Alistair; the old thing's near death, I'm afraid.' In another few days they'll be planning a small memorial service.” Edmund consoled him and suggested another trip to his school.

The alarming thing was Alistair felt nothing from Edmund's consoling kiss. Not a hint of passion. Comfort, concern, and love were there, but the old heat seemed gone. Is it gone forever, Alistair wondered. I don't ache for sex and how long has it been? I certainly don't feel very appealing. I just miss it – something I used to need. And what about Edmund? He's younger, barely forty, and still a catch, I'd say. He's always had those handsome legs – so sexy. Alistair smiled at the memory of the hundred absurd plots he had used over their years together to get Edmund into short pants in the middle of winter. Edmund must be feeling the lack of attention. And here I sit - looking at these awful prints.”

“The prints are ghastly,” he said to someone who seemed to be in charge of something pointing to a pair of murky pastoral scenes.

“Mmm. I suppose; but they are what we have.”

“What if I could arrange a loan? Some better and original things. Perhaps a rotating selection?” Alistair presented his card, showing his British Museum connection.

“It's not my area at all. Let me call Miss Cromarty.”

“Mr. Dragon?” the young man questioned.

“Mr. Booth! Good to see you again. How goes the drawing?”

“Could I show you?”

“Miss Cromarty is eager to discuss your suggestion, Mr. Dragon,” the clerk interrupted. “Could you meet her in a half hour? She's on the second floor. Let me write down the room number.”

Alistair thanked the clerk and replied to Alfred Booth, “I seem to have thirty minutes on my hands. I'd like to see what you've done.”

Alfred took Alistair to his room in the residence hall. The first thing that struck Alistair was the sketch he had made of Alfred, now framed and hanging on the wall over a one of a pair of desks. Alfred pulled a sketch pad from a drawer and opened it to a view of the Yare.

“I did it from the top of the building and tried to put focus in the scene.”

“Yes, very different, very dramatic.” Alistair appaised the scene carefully. “I like the way the river's bend seems to conceal. You make me watch, eager, expecting something to come round the bend.” He continued looking at the details of the work.

“I looked you up, Mr. Dragon.” Alfred paused. “Internet. I want to say I greatly appreciate your advice.”

“And I want to say I greatly appreciate your drawing. Would you give me one?” Alfred ripped his latest drawing out of the pad and handed it instantly to Alistair.

“Thank you. You must sign it, Mr. Booth. So people will know whose is the wonderful work I have hanging on my wall. I'll put it in my office. You can with complete honesty tell people you have something hanging in the British Museum,” Alistair joked.

“Would you sign my sketch, too? With your dragon cypher?”

“Er, the cypher is for a certain kind of drawing, Mr. Booth; but I'll gladly sign my name.”

“”Oh, I guess my drawing isn't one of your special ones.”

Alistair looked up. “You know about those?”

“Mr. Dragon, you're becoming famous for them. I was hoping … but your special ones are of special people.”

“Mr. Booth, you are certainly worthy of a special drawing; but I was unprepared. I didn't have the proper pens with me the other day. Besides my friend Edmund says the students here are forbidden subjects.”

“Just drawing me wouldn't mean you ...”

“Appearances, Mr. Booth. I wouldn't be worried for myself, but you and my friend Edmund must be considered. I couldn't allow any talk to harm either of you.”

“I'd be willing; I'd be honored, just to let you know. I'll be finished with school in June.”

“And what will happen in June?”

“I have the promise of a junior tax clerk's position here in Norwich.”

“One day in June, then, if you would visit Edmund and me and draw the sea, I will draw you. Is that fair?”

“More than fair … Yes … I'd be so pleased … “

“Call me. Here's the number.”




“Shelly, the program doesn't run. It errors out while loading saying something is missing.”

“I swear, Tin Doll. Do I have to … Whooo!”

“What's wrong?” Tindall listened at the bathroom door. “Shelly? Are you all right?”

“Wow. I'll have to try that again! It was like somebody stomped on my douche bag.”

“The program, Shelly. It's missing something.”

“Tin Doll … Do you think you might like to try a dildo?”

“What? You want me to use a dildo on you?”

“Mmmnnn no. More like me using one on you.”

“No, I don't think so. Could you download the software again? Maybe some part didn't copy the first time.”

Shelly emerged from the bathroom in a flimsy bathrobe. “It's so bright in here.” She turned off the lamps by the bed and one other, leaving just one dim lamp burning. She stood between the lamp and Tindall. The light made her hair shine and highlighted the soft folds of the bathrobe. “Sweetie, you're still dressed. Let me help you.”

Tindall was putty in her hands, putty of a rapidly hardening kind. The sound of tearing came in his eagerness to get his pants off and he lost a button from his shirt. His erection stood stiffly out of his boxers. Shelly reached in and caressed his balls. “Ooow, aren't you a big boy today.” Her robe fell open and she pressed her breasts against him. He groaned. He tolerated the brief pain as his penis bend in a way it didn't want to go while getting rid of the boxers. “Just lie back, baby. Let me do the work,” Shelly said.

He felt the pleasure of her blowjob suffuse his body. He relaxed and spread his legs. It felt like his whole groin was heating up. Her teasing tugs on his balls were pushing him or maybe pulling him closer and closer to orgasm. It was out of his control. Just lie back and let it happen. “Shelly, mmm … So good ...” Her finger was on his asshole, pressing. The long finger nail wasn't good at all. “No baby, go back to my balls … That's right … What! … Wait! … NO!”

Shelly lay across him using her weight to pin Tindall to the bed with the dildo implanted. “Take it easy. You'll get used to it. It'll feel good in a minute. Here, let me ...”

At first Tindall felt his cock slide into her. Then he realized it wasn't into her, exactly; it was between her legs. “Shelly ...” Tindall cried out in a combination of frustration and dildo-induced pain.

“Easy, Sweetie. Relax. I'll let you in in a minute. You don't want to cum too soon, right?” Tindall was taking deep breaths and trying to relax without much success. “See, you're staying hard. It's feeling better, isn't it?”

“No, it isn't. It feels like ...”

“Come on, you're not still flailing around. Take it easy. Feel it. Here, let me help.” She turned about and sat on his stomach. The hem of her robe which she was still wearing covered his face. With one hand she stroked his cock and with the other she gently played with the dildo not pushing it in, just moving it from side to side a bit. “My girl friend Gretchen, who's fucking that old guy in the History Department, said it takes a little getting used to, but you'll love it.” She applied a slight pressure to the dildo and it penetrated farther. “There … Good … At least your ass isn't tight. Gretchen said it's a bitch getting into some young guys.”

Tindall shook his head from side to side, getting hem of the robe out of his mouth. “Shelly, could you take the robe off?”

“Sure, Sweetie. I thought you liked a bit of clothing.” She shrugged off the robe and stroked his cock with a firmer grip, sliding up and down smoothly. He was getting slick from his own leaking juices. “See, you're as wet as I am. You're liking this.” She moved the dildo more, aiming the inner end upward. “Gretchen said it's important to get you to cum with the dildo inside. There you go. Your balls are getting tight. Whee!” She laughed as Tindall exploded.

He lay panting, too wiped out to move. Shelly reversed her position and straddled his hips. She leaned forward and let her nipples drag lightly across his chest. Her clit pressed against the remaining semi-hardness of Tindall's cock. She moved in a gentle motion, rubbing her body against his until she came with a shuddering convulsion. “Ooow! Sweet! Yes. Mmm. Wasn't that nice.”

“I have to admit ...” Tindall had no more to say on the subject. There was some discomfort when he pulled the dildo out of his ass but it was brief. Shelly was back in the bathroom and Tindall wondered what to do with the smelly reminder of his rape. He wrapped it in Shelly's robe. “We'll let you deal with it,” he said to the bathroom door.




Tom waited until he got to his apartment to call Rory. He needed privacy.

“Rory, the operating logs recorded several file dumps. I could trace all but one of them to inventory summaries and located all the summary discs in the office. They checked out and contained nothing but inventory data. One other disc was created; it was a system dump. It was done from a machine that nobody uses regularly but everybody uses a little. It was running under my login, but I often open the machine in the morning and leave it running all day. I didn't do the system dump, bossman.”

“Ok, I'll get back to you. Meanwhile, don't open that machine yourself. And log it off, if you see it sitting idle. Did you take some time off?”

“I'm off now.”

“It's six o'clock in DC. Of course, you're off now. Tom, we don't need you ...”

“I'm fine, Rory. Don't worry about me.” Tom lay the phone on his kitchen counter and wondered what to do for dinner. Looking around the kitchen didn't turn up anything potentially mouthwatering. He wondered if the carpet layers wanted to go out.

He answered the knock on his door with a broad grin thinking the footsteps up the stairs sounded like Al's. “Lucky. Hi. Come in.”

“I've been sitting in dust looking at Apartment C for two hours and I'm hungry. If I order a couple of pizza's, would you want to join me? Where's a good place to order from?”

“I know a great place in Alameda, but the delivery time would suck. Here …? I don't know. Gantry said she has spent a couple years looking for a good pizza in Washington.”

“Ok, we'll let this thing earn it's keep.” Lucky pulled out a cool-looking personal assistant in a leather case. He punched up a restaurant app and asked Tom, “What kind do you like?” A few more punches and he closed out the call. “Forty-five to an hour wait. Want to go look at the art some more?”

They spent thirty-five minutes in the bathroom looking at the variety of bathing scenes depicted. “What is that style called?” Tom asked, pointing.

“The dotty part? Pointillism. That section resembles Seurat's Bathers at Asnieres. I bet that's what you're thinking of.”

“I don't know what I was thinking of. It just looked familiar.”

“This part ...” Lucky put his arm around Tom to guide his view. “... is like those boys Eakins did, but the subjects here look older and sexier.” Lucky felt Tom's warmth and an intimacy that was more than he intended. He moved away and instantly regretted it, missing the intimacy.

“The pizzas should be here about now,” Lucky said, feeling a dryness in his mouth.

They returned to Tom's apartment and waited. The predicted delivery time of an hour stretched beyond an hour and a half. Two beers apiece only made them hungrier, but the conversation never lagged. Lucky explained more and more of the Apartment C art and Tom was fascinated by the immediacy of the lesson's application and by Lucky's skill in explanation. It was closer to two hours when the pizza's finally arrived and everything stopped while they ate a few slices.

After taking the edge of their hunger, they ate more leisurely and resumed the discussion. Tom looked at his watch and, breaking the flow of the conversation, he said, “It's after nine and you've had four beers. You want to stay here tonight?”
 
Hmmm, Things seem to be heating up between Lucky and Tom. What position does Lucky hold relative to Tindall's? Mayhap he's in store for an unexpected promotion? Here's hoping Tom catches the slut and fries both of their asses, big time.

Phil and Alex are still having a good time - maybe their "nothing" is not so nothing?! Hopefully, Dmitri won't be issuing any hit orders, soon.

Alistair appears to be enhancing a young student's prospects, and perhaps he an Edmund's as well? And, perhaps he can bring ART to the student who might not otherwise go to see it where it normally resides.

It was a good read; sorry it took me awhile to get it read and commented on.

I've had some things happening - discussed in some of the F&G threads.
:=D:
 
Thanks, Rory.

Your town is hopping down near a certain address right now.
 
Chapter Twenty-Three



“Spend the night?” Lucky asked.

“Yeah, I have two beds and a sofa. You can take your pick. You've had four beers, Lucky.”

“If I stay, can I have one more?”

“You can have anything you want.” Tom, of course, meant beer. Lucky considered alternative possibilities.

I would do it, he thought. I absolutely would. I wouldn't think twice. I wonder what he likes in bed. Yes, I would, Lucky confirmed to himself as he watched Tom walk to the refrigerator and open two more beers. Narrow hips, those jeans are well stuffed; he's strong, he wouldn't lie on top of me like a ton of potatoes. He'd be athletic in his motions. Brent had a thick cock and he was no trouble; I could handle Tom. If that's what he wanted …

“Here you go, Lucky.” Tom handed him another beer. “How hard is it going to be to remove the murals?”

Lucky ignored the question and asked, “Will you go with me to the Merridell house on Saturday? Right now I don't have permission to do more than look at the apartment and I'm hoping to convince two more sisters to turn over the art.”

“How could I help you do that?”

“Well, I was thinking that …” Lucky couldn't think of how to tell Tom his plan. The beer convinced him to try honesty. “Ok, bottom line. The big sister said I have to fuck one of them to get approval. I was hoping that I could offer and then tell the little sister that you wouldn't mind, you know – as if we were lovers? Without saying it? And then hope she wouldn't want a gay guy, even if he was willing. Or, better yet, maybe you and the sister would hit it off ...” Tom started laughing and eventually Lucky joined him.

“Alright, my plan sucks. I get it. I don't know what to do.”

“Step one. Meet the other sisters. If you already have the big sister agreeing ...”

“Yeah, I have Big Sis locked up.”

“Maybe you only need one of the other sisters to agree? Maybe it wouldn't have to be the fuck-needy one?”

“But what if she turned out to be hot … in a middle-aged way. You know, a MILF. Or maybe a WILF.”

“What's a WILF?”

“A widow I'd like to ...” Lucky didn't have to finish; they were both laughing again. “Or YOU could fuck her.”

“I guess I could. Who knows? It's happened before,” Tom admitted.

“I knew you were bi. I knew it!” Lucky said, smiling as if he had discovered gold.

“I don't know about that; but I've done it with chicks before. Not in a while, though.” The beers encouraged more laughter.

“You've done it with chicks. I've done it with guys. We have a lot in common. I wonder if Little Sis would take on both of us.” Lucky laughed and then yawned. “Whew, I haven't had five beers in a long time.” He drained the last of his fifth. “You think I could have one more?”

He watched Tom head for the kitchen again. I'm going to do it, he decided; I'm having sex with him. Anything he wants; I'll do it.

Tom was about to open the refrigerator when his phone buzzed. It was Rory.

“Tom, we got another series of hits and we got a trace on the machine from the IP address. So far all we know is it's in northwest Washington. It's the same IP address.”

“What do you want me to do, Rory?”

“We're gonna feed our mystery man some code that should produce interesting results. Keep an eye on your little friend tomorrow. We're gonna bring in the FBI.” They talked some more about involving the Smithsonian and Rory decided Brent should be told, but not yet.

Wow, Tom thought as he put the phone down. He looked in the refrigerator and the Beck's was gone. “Lucky, is Budweiser ok?” He got no answer. In the next room he found Lucky slumped over on the sofa asleep. He got a pillow and blanket and made his beery friend comfortable for the night.




“Why is it so hard to locate anything around here?” Alistair complained, as he slumped into his office chair. He had just hung his new drawing of the River Yare, a drawing that drew the critical attention of his assistant. Young Mr. Booth's riverscape was replacing a Constable study of Salisbury Cathedral.

“Perhaps because we have about eight million items, plus or minus, acquired over two hundred and fifty years, stored sometimes haphazardly in several locations in several cities, not counting the foreign ones, with ...”

“Yes, Percy. I know all that. What I want are some prints of athletes testing their mettle. Perhaps a half-dozen, by minor artists, preferably English – or at least British, to lend out for a bit.” Persephone Plimpton, an able right hand if there ever was one, disliked it when Alistair called her Percy.

“Couldn't you call me Persy, at least. Percy is a man's name. Where did you get that drawing?” Persephone did not desire any masculine trappings is a field where Lesbians were so common as to be expected.

“From a nice young man in Norwich. Persy. Percy. There's no difference, Persephone. ”

“Not the way YOU pronounce them. Just because you've had a touch of … whatever it is you've had a touch of, I'm not going to coddle you.”

“What I would like are some nice prints, duplicates, perhaps, not too valuable, with an appeal to youthful collegiate minds. I want to lend them to the University of East Anglia for their library. A Mrs. Cromarty is my contact. Haggis? Hersel? Hurcheon? Something like that. Her card says 'H. Cromarty' with an address and phone. Could you put her in our files, please. Now, how would we go about finding something suitable?”

“By artist, probably. Our listings are most reliable by artist.”

“Frederick Barnard, perhaps?” Alistair suggested.

“Too fusty and Dickensian,” Persephone vetoed. “Not a model for youth. Died in a fire from smoking in bed.”

“William Coldstream?”

“Maybe … a bit controversial?”

“By which you mean homosexual. Oh, well; it doesn't matter.” Alistair flipped through a printed listing. “It's so easy to look up the famous things, but who needs to look them up? We already know all about them. It's the small works, the minor artists that are difficult.” Alistair thought for a moment and said, “You should see what Brent is doing at the Freer … If only … Of course it's monumentally different in scale … But still … I wonder ...” He lapsed into silence.

“Alistair, some of us, your old friends, were hoping you would come to lunch …”

“Persephone, that's dear and tempting. But not food. Not anything to do with food. I would like to show my face, however. Do you think just a drink would be possible? I wouldn't have to drink it ...”

When Persephone left the office, Alistair called Brent. “You're where? Oh … enjoy the trip. I think Haskins is going to be there. Remember him? Thin … mousy … giant cock ... Yes, that's the one. Hates Chinese food, too. Maybe the two of you can find a French place in Beijing. Actually, Brent, we're having a little inventory problem.” Alistair explained his annoyance. “Thank you, Brent. I'll call him directly.”

Alistair punched in another number and waited. “This is Alistair Dragon from … Oh, you remember me. Thank you for that. I certainly remember you. To get to the point, Tom, how would you like to visit the British Museum … Oh, to be in England now that April's there … and all that ... What? Robert Browning ... You're right; it is May.”

“I'm being too literal. I'm sorry.” Tom waited for Alistair to reply.

“Dear boy, don't apologize. It's your precision that I prize. Your inventory system, actually. Do you think you could demonstrate it for a few of us? There could be some business in it for you.”




“Oh, Tin Doll … that was soooo good.” Shelly's skill at dildo manipulation had progressed to the point that Tindall only needed the smallest bit of Shelly herself. He liked it when she would rub her pubic hair against his cock while the vibrating dildo worked its magic deep in his ass. It got him off. From Shelly's point of view, the dildo was fast and efficient. Once Shelly learned how to avoid any contact with his fluids, she could be in and out of his apartment in little more than a half hour. No more douching. Not even a shower unless she felt like it. And Tindall was satisfied, left in a heap, physically drained, mentally wiped out. She had to admit he even looked a bit sexy afterward, lying on the bed, relaxed, non-threatening, with the remains of an erection lying wet on his thigh.

She was dressed quickly and about to leave when Tindall sat up. “Shelly, you've got to get another copy of the system. Marc says he can't get anything to work.”

“I know. He told me.” Right after he fucked me, she recalled and couldn't suppress a smile at the memory. “I'm going to work now. I'll get on it, Sweetie.”

Shelly arrived at work and immediately went to the common use computer. Overconfidence leads to all manner of mistakes Tom thought as he watched her. Shelly open the common machine and type a few commands. She made no special attempt to hide what she was doing, since it looked like an ordinary inventory dump. He soon had all the evidence he needed and phoned the details to the home office.

“Do nothing, Tom. Let her keep working and copy more if she wants,” Rory told him. “We'll try to see more what's up at the other end of her operation.”

“Rory, on a different subject, the British Museum wants a demo … In London, I guess … Sure I can sell it – the demo ... But what about the business end? I'm not the expert there and the international part … OK, I'll tell him yes and firm up a schedule for a couple of guys in early June.”

“Tom, half the company is going to want to go. We've never done anything international in this section of the business before. That's exciting news. You will need a wheelbarrow to haul away your bonus if this one works out. This makes the De Young and LACMA jobs Darren is working on look trivial. How big do you think?”

“They have eight million items total, they think; but we might be talking about only the drawings and prints … about a million.” Tom glanced up. “Oh, Rory … Shelly's leaving work early … I see her talking to Gantry … I'll email you the logs and call you back later.”




Mike opened his door and looked out in surprise. “Lucky, what happened?”

“I collided with a six pack of Beck's I think. I slept at Tom's. He's already gone to work I guess. Do you have an aspirin or two?”

“Sure. Come in. You want some coffee? OJ?”

“Thanks, yes. It's not a major hangover, but I feel a little rocky.”

Mike fixed Lucky up and left him on the porch alone waiting for the aspirin and outside air to do their jobs. About twenty minutes later he joined Lucky with a fresh pot of coffee. “Feeling better?”

“Much. Thanks.” Mike tried to say it was nothing, but Lucky wouldn't let him. “You guys have a great little community here. Friends helping friends and all. It's not nothing at all. It's pretty rare in a city like Washington.”

“We're all from someplace else and fortunately we all get along. To tell the truth, I'm actually thinking of moving someplace else.”

“Why? This seems perfect.”

“Matt has more or less permanently moved in with Rawson and the place is bigger than I need. I'm not doing anything about it yet; just thinking out loud really.”

“And you're home today. Quit you job, too?”

“No, it a golf day. We're playing this afternoon. We make up for it by working Saturdays. Some guys at work do it maybe once a month in good weather.”

“Which reminds me. I better tell my boss where I am.” Lucky made a quick call to Brent and then turned back to Mike. “What is it you do?”

“I'm a structural engineer at the National Building Museum. We analyze old buildings to see if they can be saved. It's an internship that I've strung out into a third year. I like it, but I've got to get a real job when this last year is up.”

“Wow. Maybe I should listen to you about this place. I'm trying to get the owners to donate Apartment C to my museum. I'd like to move it as close to intact as possible right into the museum.”

“Great idea. There wouldn't be any other way to display it as the artist intended. It shouldn't be difficult to do. These apartments are just dry wall. Wait a second. Apartment C is original, isn't it? Untouched for years ... It might be plaster and lathe. Have you checked? That would complicate things.”

“I'm still working on getting the donation. All I've done is look at C as art, not as a building. And definitely not as a problem building.”

“Want to take a look now?” Mike proposed.




“Man, am I stoked!” Alex was beaming and pacing nervously in the kitchen of the Old Europe.

“Have some strudel,” Phil urged. He was sitting on a stool, more excited about the apple dessert than the songs they had sung.

“Wow! They loved us! I can't believe it.” Alex picked up his mandolin and put it down again.

“And the meal was free, too,” Phil added. “So this was fun and all; but why did Dimitri put you up to it?”

“Us, you mean. He put us up to it. Why? Who knows? But man! It's fun! I think I want a beer or something. Maybe Schnapps … keep it German.”

For a second set, they sang three more German songs and as an encore closed with a version of Billy Joel's 'It's Still Rock and Roll to Me'; Phil had insisted that they learn one song that was more contemporary and in a language he understood. The management invited them back.

Alex talked non-stop as they walked back to Phil's apartment. “Wow! The applause! It really feeds me.”

“Yes. It's why musicians like an audience instead of a studio. Instant feedback. Instant love almost, when it's a good night.”

“Love, huh?” Alex pulled Phil against him once they were inside. His lovemaking was urgent and rougher than usual. There was a sting to his kisses and a strength to his thrusts. Alex had the most explosive orgasm Phil had yet seen.

“Was I too rough?”

“You were great. I loved it,” Phil answered, ready for sleep; but Alex was still wired. “This is the post-performance high that gets you into trouble,” Phil warned. “You get charged up from the performance and there's no way to work off the tension. Guys use drugs to try to prolong it. You just have to ride it out. It's fun, but it isn't real.”

“It sure feels real,” Alex said, out of bed and pacing. “Feel this. That's real.” Alex's cock was half hard and progressing. The second time Alex was more gentle. He took longer, making sure Phil was with him.

“Just fuck me, Alex.” Phil didn't say so; but Alex's attention, not his cock, was exactly what he wanted.

“I could do this all night, Phil. We fit so perfectly.” Alex was thrusting slowly, all the way in and almost all the way out. He thrust inward and felt Phil's ass press firmly against his pelvis. He saw a look of total satisfaction on Phil's face.

“Oh! Baby! I'm cumimg.” Their cries were almost simultaneous.
 
Rory,
A lot is happening here.

Lucky, the perennial loser, strikes out, drunk, at Tom's, but seems to be making good progress next door - perhaps on two fronts - interpersonal AND professional - all wrapped up in one?!
Mike, how do you feel about a new roomie, with benefits?

Tom, meanwhile, is about to bust a pair of scumbags, AND take a jaunt to Merry Old London Town - with Darren???

Their "open source" program isn't quite as open as the scum thinks, but their long term dream of helping to build an international art cataloguing system seems one step closer to reality.

Then the young 'uns in Alex and Phil make good at the show AND reward themselves by trying to burn off some of that rush in the most intimate of ways.

I'm left feeling warm and fuzzy all over, lol.
 
Chapter Twenty-Four



The arrest was low-keyed, very matter-of-fact and happened at work. “Shirley Bernstein, aka Shelly Burningbush, you are under arrest on charges of grand theft and conspiracy to defraud. Come with us, please.”

Simultaneously, at American University, Tindall Arnheim and an almost innocent graduate student named Marcus Levitz were arrested and similarly charged. Later, the Washington Post printed a brief report in the Metro section, while the Examiner called it Shalomgate and put it on page 3.

Rory and a company lawyer came to Washington and met with Tom. Together they met with officials of the University in the expensive-looking offices of a firm on K Street. “We are eager to bring this matter to a close, gentlemen,” said a lawyer a lot of neck flesh and very little hair. He was surrounded by similar men and one woman who did an affirming nod at every statement made on her side of the table.

“As are we,” Rory's man said. “We are a software company and our chief interest is sales, not retribution. I repeat, sales.”

By that afternoon the University had signed a contract to use a new inventory program to account for every piece of portable property they owned. There was no quibbling over price. Although everyone present in the office knew that this contract would be far more profitable for the Alameda company than the Smithsonian contract it was modeled after, the University would receive value for their money.

“Do you think Gantry could manage this new business?” Rory asked Tom over a lunch.

“Yes, she's very capable. Are you firing me?”

“No, we're sending you to London, I hope. Then, when the Smithsonian business wraps up, you can do whatever you want. Work here, work in Alameda, maybe work in London?”

Tom's face lit up. He was still glowing when he and Rory briefed Brent on the results of their negotiations. “Basically, they gave us a big software contract and we dropped our complaint,” Rory explained.

“What about Arnstein and his bunch?” Brent asked.

“Shelly? Shirley? Whatever her name is?” Lucky echoed, thanking himself for not pursuing any social contacts with her.

“Both students have been expelled a month short of a degree and Professor Arnstein will be demoted and called Mr. Arnstein, an instructor in sculpture and ceramics. I'm not sure what else is planned for any of them. The school wants minimum publicity.”

“Shelly was actually a good worker. I wouldn't have minded keeping her on – in very controlled circumstances, of course.”

“You are the soul of generosity, Tom. I wouldn't trust her for the time of day.” Brent closed the discussion, leaving Rory with a few hours to kill before his late departure for Oakland.

“Let me show you where I live, Rory. It's pretty amazing,” Tom offered. “Then we can go for dinner. You know you won't get anything on the plane.”




“Brent,” Lucky said after the visitors had left. “The apartment is so unbelievable. I can't stay out of it. I see new things every time I'm there. Do you want to look at it again? Do you mind if I get the Institute's engineering service to put in an air filter system? Even if we don't get it, we owe it to whoever does. We should start the preservation process now.”

“Don't spend a lot, Lucky. I get your motives and I admire them, but the God-damned Getty can pay their own way.”

“Are they the competition?” Lucky asked.

Brent shrugged. “Aren't they always when there's real money on the table?”

“Brent, the National Building Museum has a structural engineer who lives right in the garage. Do you think …?”

“Is this engineer female?” Brent was relieved to hear the engineer's name was Mike Mitchell. “I'll call Titus, their number two. I'm sure he'll agree to a transfer - the Castle just whacked his budget; but you've got to get the donation first. Can I help?”

“I'm going to a dinner party at the Merridell farm on Saturday to meet all the owners. I'll size things up and let you know.”

“Lucky?”

Lucky was already halfway to the door. “What?”

“You are looking ten years younger lately. Like that sweet boy I remember. What's up with you?”

“I'm excited about finding a garage full of art, I guess. It's the biggest thing I've ever worked on.”

“I thought I was the biggest thing you ever worked on … Or was it 'worked over'?”

Lucky looked chagrined. “Brent, I'm sorry if ...”

“Just pulling your chain. Go get that art for us. Are you prepared to do anything for it?”

“You wouldn't believe what I may have to do.”

Brent screwed up his face, without saying no. “Is it illegal?”

“I don't think so. Personally demeaning and all – I mean really mortifying - but pretty much legal.”

“In that case, you have my blessing,” Brent smiled recalling some of the bowing and scraping he had done over the years.




The day had not ended before certain parts of the world wide web were buzzing about a Washington college girl who had made some videos. The elderly Mr. Burnstein was berating his daughter for her activities. “It cost me a small fortune to keep you out of jail and what thanks do I get? The first thing you do is spread filth all over the Internet?”

“I need work. You said you're not paying any more. It was just some stuff Marc and I did for laughs. I thought the title was pretty clever.”

The pretext of one video was that Marc and Shelly had gotten locked together the way dogs sometimes do, and Marc needed repeated drainings to get free. They called it “Lock and Load.”

“Seven and a half semesters of college and what do I get? Smutty puns.” Her father shook his head. “So now you're prepared for a career in pornography?”

“Nobody gets a career in porn anymore. It's all short term. I'm hoping to turn it into a fashion statement. Maybe get a line of lingerie going.” Shelly admired her nails; there wasn't one chip in the polish despite the rough handling by the woman taking finger prints.

Her father left the hotel suite in disgust barely able to control his anger. Shelly's mother was more understanding. “Did you have to get him so annoyed, Shirley? I'm going to be days getting him cooled down.” Her breast heaved a sigh that ended in a cough. “So, anyway, tell me about the lingerie … that dusty pink shade looked so nice next to your ni … your skin. Sometimes you can look so jaundiced, you know. And ...” Mom's voice rose an octave at the triumph. “Your Aunt Lou called. She had seen the videos. Imagine! I complimented her on learning to use a computer, but she said she saw you on some cable channel. How do you feel about all this, dear?”

“Not that great actually, but when all ya got is lemons ... “

“They're big lemons! You got that from me.” Mrs. Burnstein took a deep breath, thrusting her chest out. “Honey, that part where you make Marc scream? How did you do that? I think your father might ...”

Shelly rolled her eyes and Mom changed the subject. “You know my brother could probably help you. He used to work for a custom tailor who made very pretty things.”

“Your brother worked? When?”




Tom, Rory, and the company lawyer got to the garage ahead of Lucky. They relaxed with a beer on the porch and were joined by Mike. “Rory, you have to see this apartment before you go. Can we use Tom to catalog it while he's working and it's still in place in the garage?”

“You can use Tom for anything that you pay for,” Rory said. “The contract is open-ended, by the piece count. But I guess this is all one big piece from what you say. There's an hourly option as well, I believe.”

Lucky's dream of using Tom the night before flashed before his eyes and he was a little uncertain of past events. He volunteered to help Tom carry the beer bottles to his kitchen. It gave him a chance to make sure nothing unfortunate had happened.

“Tom, I'm sorry about last night.”

“No problemo, Lucky,” Tom called out over the clatter of the bottles going into the recycling bin. “I know what it's like to be that tired. Sleep was what you needed.”

“I didn't do anything to embarrass myself, did I?

“What? No, of course not. Let's go show Rory Apartment C.”

“Thanks.” Lucky felt an impulse to hug Tom but didn't. He watched Tom walk ahead of him out onto the porch. He admitted to himself that his desires of the night before were not entirely beer-driven. I just want to touch him, Lucky thought; I want to see if he's real.

Rory's reaction to the art was awe. “Wow! I don't know anything about art, but wow! Amazing! One guy. I wonder how long it took him to do all this.”

They crowded into the bathroom; it was a tight fit. It gave Lucky an excuse to put his arm around Tom's waist. He explained the imagery of the couples depicted. As he worked from left to right he ended up looking into Tom's eyes and lost his train of thought. “They're beautiful,” Lucky said, meaning Tom's eyes.

“I'd say powerful,” the lawyer said, referring to the images. “But as Rory said, I don't know much about this stuff.”

“Yes,” Lucky said, regaining his poise. “Reactions are personal and equally valid. What makes this work so appealing to the Museum is that nobody is indifferent to it.” Nice recovery, Lucky told himself.

They finished the tour and Tom suggested food before the flight. Mike joined the dinner party; but Lucky declined and stayed in Apartment C taking notes while it was still light. They sat and just finished ordering when the entertainment began.

“That was good. Just the right amount of entertainment without taking over the whole meal conversation,” the lawyer commented.

“I actually know the guy with the guitar. He was in a rock band in a place a block from here.” Tom waved to Phil; and Phil in his turn pointed and called out “Tom” as he waved back.

The music was better than the food and Rory proposed a post-dinner walk before the ride to the airport. He wanted a chance to talk to Tom alone. “You are obviously feeling better about Washington.”

“I guess. I still miss Alameda, but the places are totally different.”

“I'd say you have your choice of Lucky, Mike, or the guitar player. Are you interested?”

“Well, actually, the guitar player and I … uh … it was nothing lasting ...you know ... Lucky and Mike? I guarantee neither one of them is interested.”

“I'd say they both are. Very interested. You could take your pick. If you want, I mean … I'm not pushing anything. It's up to you, obviously. I'm just glad to see you're not depressed. You had me worried on the phone.”

“Sorry, bossman. I guess I let my feelings show too much.”

Tom, I hope I'm your friend, not just your boss. Because I don't think I'm going to be your boss much longer. I think the company has bigger plans for you, if London goes well.”

Rory didn't say any more and Tom didn't ask. Mike walked home while Tom rode with his coworkers to the airport.




“So … that guy you said hello to … Who was he?” Alex asked. He was in his usual charged up mood after their night of singing.

“A hundred and thirty-six dollars in tips. Not too fucking shabby, huh?” Phil finished counting the money and handed half to Alex.

“I'm already being paid for this. You keep it,” Alex dismissed the cash with a wave of his hand. “Who was the guy? He was cute. The whole table was.” Pacing the room Alex pulled off his shirt and picked up his mandolin. “Naked mandolin player. What do you think?”

“Only half-naked. Meh,” Phil teased.

Alex took his jeans off and held the mandolin so it covered his underwear. “Now?”

“Better, but I don't think there's a German gay bar in Washington.” Phil sat on his bed and watched Alex pose.

Alex laughed. “Maybe in the suburbs. So who was the guy?” Alex knelt in front of Phil and began unlacing his shoes.

“You're not giving up on that, huh? He's the reason I broke up with Ace, now that I think of it.” Phil lifted his feet so Alex could pull his socks off.

“You loved him?” Alex asked, masking any emotion.

“God, no. It was only a couple of times. Tom's his name. He was just a ton better than Ace in bed. He can come twice in a row and he made sure I was having a good time. He showed me I would never be satisfied with Ace. Ace tried; he tried like hell; but the poor guy never quite … Mmmm.”

“I make sure you're having a good time, don't I?” Alex was licking Phil's foot. It tickled a little and then, when he swirled his tongue between Phil's toes, if felt good, really good. Phil watched and Alex responded, looking him in the eye as he continued licking. Phil reached to open his jeans, but Alex stopped him. “I'll do that. I like getting you naked. Slowly. Gradually.”

It was a close night, a little humid and warm, a preview of summer. By the time Alex got Phil's underwear off, gradually, slowly, Phil was soaking wet. He wiped his brow and pulled his sweaty t-shirt away from his body, as Alex sucked his cock.

“You're salty. Your cock's like a giant pretzel,” Alex increased his tonguing when Phil gasped. He rimmed him, getting his ass as wet as everything else before he went back to sucking cock. “Salty and sweet, hard and thick. Is all this cock-juice for me or for Tom?” Alex penetrated Phil with two spit-slicked fingers.

Phil sighed. “For you, baby, for you.” Phil pulled Alex up into a kiss and locked his legs around Alex's waist. They never bothered removing Phil's t-shirt. The fuck was an easy progression using natural lube and relaxed motions. While Alex came quickly, Phil didn't.

Phil came the second time, though. The second time Alex was more eager and quite a bit rougher, fucking Phil determinedly and even selfishly. Alex barely stroked Phil's cock before his hand was covered in cum; his own orgasm followed swiftly.

The third time was work. The third time Alex was the one covered in sweat. It dripped off his face and off his body running in little rivulets to his nipples and dripping onto Phil. Phil tweaked Alex's nipples and jammed a finger into his ass to make him come. The fun for Phil wasn't the fuck; it was seeing Alex work so hard for him.

“Three times,” Alex grunted. “Did Tom ever do it three times?”

“Never,” sighed a happy Phil, holding Alex against him, ignoring the heat and the sweat, feeling and sharing in Alex's pride at besting somebody who wasn't even a rival. “You're the best.”

They showered and changed the wet bed clothes. A slight breeze and the fresh sheets produced a different atmosphere. Prefacing his question with a kiss, Phil asked, “Have you noticed how good the sex is after we … rob an apartment, say? Or face down a hostile and hungry crowd armed with just a guitar and a mandolin?” Phil made hacking motions at an imaginary enemy.

“You don't like the other nights?” Alex sounded hurt.

“I love the other nights. But it seems like we both like the adrenaline rush.”

“Hmmm.” Alex was noncommittal.

“What I'm trying to say is I love what we do, Alex. All of it. But especially I like … I don't know … danger, maybe. I like facing danger with you. And then I like celebrating afterward. With you.” Alex's response was an enthusiastic kiss. “It's got to be with you, though,” Phil added.




Mike walked the few blocks from the Old Europe to Macomb Street and turned east as last of the sun faded. He decided that getting anywhere with Tom was hopeless. If he had given me the least encouragement … but, unfortunately, he saw me as part of the furniture. Time to move on, he resolved.

“Lucky, is that you?” The shadowy figure looked even darker than he should have in the light outside the stairs to Apartment C. “What's all over your face?”

“I don't know. Dirt I guess. I was checking the floors, under the old carpet to see if there was anything we missed.”

“And?”

“Nothing. Just dirty old floors.” Lucky sneezed twice.

“Come on in and get cleaned up.”

“Is it worth the trouble? I might as well go home the way I am.”

“Then your car will be all dirty. At least wash your hands.”

As they climbed the stairs to Mike's, Lucky explained what he had found. “I think there's a key, Mike. I think there is some rational - or maybe irrational - progression to the work. It moves from wall to wall, and the ceiling seems to be a unifying comment on the walls. But every time I think I have figured it out, something that doesn't fit the pattern shows up. This “thing” we have found is going to be the basis for a hundred doctoral dissertations.” Lucky gave Mike a huge grin. All Mike could see were his teeth.

“You should see yourself. You look like something stark from the Thirties - the noble coal miner comes up from the pit after another day of enriching somebody else.”

Lucky let Mike talk him into a shower. He emerged from the bathroom looking clean and semi-civilized in just a towel. “Could I borrow a few clothes? I don't want to put these dirty ones back on.”

“Sure. Help yourself. Underwear and t-shirts in the top drawer. Shorts and sweats in the next one down. Some of this stuff is Matt's; but he won't care.”

Lucky and Mike both reached for the drawer. Their hands touched. With Lucky almost naked, it was easy to move on from there.

They were both nervous but it was too late. Stopping now would only make things messier. They shared a sense of foreboding, the knowledge that it was a mistake: I'm going to regret this, but I need somebody right now.
 
Another great instalment, Rory.
Thanks for sharing Y'all's talents with us~!
 
Rory,
Lucky and Mike. A night of mistakes and needs driving them.

Our innocent Tom, having the blinders taken off by his Alameda Connection, Rory.

The arrest, and subsequent contract - a pretty lucrative one for the company, and a decent investment for American.

The students, perhaps, got the biggest rap - losing their degrees a scant month or so from graduation.

Phil and Alex - with Alex obsessing over Tom more than a wee bit.

Even as you bring certain segments to a close, you open and tangle other threads.
 
Your incredibly well-written story has encouraged me to retrieve my long-dormant JUB account. You have concocted just the right balance of drama, humor, romance and erotica, and your characters represent nearly every facet of the gay spectrum. (Tom and Lucky are my favorites, and if I had one wish, it's that we learn what happens to Ace - and preferably a happy ending for him, too!)
 
Chapter Twenty-Five


Truth is generally the preferred choice, but sometimes a lie can be the basis for a relationship. If Mike had told the truth, he would have told Lucky, “Well, your ass is a little skinny, but at least I got off.” Instead, he woke Lucky with a smile and said, “Breakfast is ready.”

Lucky decided on honesty, even if he was about ten hours late with it. After chugging a large glass of orange juice, he came out with it. “I asked Brent if he could get you transferred to the Freer for the garage project. You sounded sort of interested and if your internship is running out, I thought it would give you an option. If you want to, that is … just something to think about … It has nothing to do with last night.”

“Thanks, Lucky. I'm not sure ...”

“Just don't say no yet, because you'd really be good. Even if we hired consulting engineers, we'd need somebody to manage the contract. And don't think last night – the sex - has any part in it. I mean, forget that happened. You don't owe me anything. I'm thinking only about the project, assuming we get it. If I didn't think we'd be lucky to get you, I wouldn't have suggested it. It could be short term, if you want. It would look good on your resumé.” Lucky looked at Mike anxiously, hoping for a positive response. “Please say something, Mike.” Lucky knew he sounded nervous and even desperate.

“Stand up and turn around.” Mike observed the look of confusion and then watched Lucky comply. “You know, your ass isn't really that skinny.” Mike pressed against Lucky from behind, confirming his statement. “And you need to know, I kind of like being in charge in the bedroom.” Mike hugged Lucky closer, reaching into his shorts. “Just because I'm polite, doesn't mean I'm gonna beg for crumbs.”

“Mike, sex doesn't even have to be part of ...” Lucky's erection told a different story.

“Too late now. It already is part. If it sucks, we can quit; but I … we need to know.” Mike led Lucky back to the bedroom and made love to him carefully, considerately, and very thoroughly.

Forty-five minutes later Lucky was out of breath and sweaty, but his choice was made. “We should probably keep going with the sex part, right?” Lucky closed his eyes, hugged Mike, and prayed for a yes.

Mike's version of yes went, “Last night, I was basically horny; today was a lot more fun. I never figured you'd be so into getting fucked.”

“So step one is ...”

“We just finished step one. Step two is finishing breakfast.”

Without missing a beat, Lucky resumed, “Step Three is securing the donation.” Between bites of cold eggs and toast, he told Mike about the coming Saturday dinner party.

“Your problem is one sister but you're not even sure which one? Pretend I'm the sister. What are you going to say to me?”

“For a Southern girl, you have a pretty big cock.”

“No, seriously ...”

“I have no idea what I'm going to say to her.”



“Gantry, would you consider running the AU project? You are not only qualified, I think they'd really like to see a new face like yours in charge.” Tom made the offer not knowing all of Gantry's history.

“The trouble is I'm not a new face. I've known Tin Man for while. Nothing complicated,” she quickly added, ruling out a past relationship, “But I have known him and some of the other people in their art center for years.”

“But it's not strictly, or even mainly, an art center project. It's more property management. Desks, chairs, office equipment, lab equipment, kitchens, that kind of thing. Yes, there will be an art component, but it's not the biggest part of the job. Janice or maybe Charles could do the art ...”

Tom had a long sales pitch ready but he didn't need it. Gantry simply said, “Yes.”

“Yes?” Tom asked.

“Yes, I'll do it. I'd love to do it. I can't believe your offering it to me. Yes, and I'll do the best job you've ever seen. Will you still be running the overall project?”

“Damned if I know. I'm going to try to sell the British Museum on a job and then my boss said the company has something else in mind ...” The phone interrupted the conversation. “Tom Kearny ...” Tom answered. While he waited for his caller to come on the line, he wrote a name and number down and gave it to Gantry. “Call her and say your a temp, just been hired for a project manager slot ... Hello, Mr. Dragon. Yes, I'm fine. You?”

Gantry gave Tom a small wave of thanks and returned to her desk. She motioned Charles and Janice to follow her into the warehouse, while Tom concentrated on the phone call.

“Truly amazing. Yes, I've seen it. The whole apartment - every wall and ceiling. Brent and Lucky are really pleased ... Yes, I believe Lucky has some pictures. I'll ask him ... Baroness who? Yes … Ok … A whole week? … Ok, and thank you. I'll email the details.”

Tom wrote down the suggested dates and wondered if he had spelled the Baroness's name correctly. Lady Tangent? Waiting for morning on the West Coast was driving him crazy. He considered calling Rory at home, but decided he was more excited about the news than Rory would be at six California time. He decided to check on what people were up to.

“Quit hovering, Tom,” Janice told him. “You're making me nervous.”

He moved on to Charles's desk and saw the morning paper. His mouth fell open. He picked up the Metro section hardly believing the article.

“I thought you'd like that,” Charles said. “Brent said you just have to laugh it off and remember that you got what you wanted out of the deal.”

“The Burningbush Hall of Sculpture?” Tom exclaimed. He continued reading out loud, “The largest donation was made by the parents of upcoming graduate Shelly Burningbush. 'Our daughter's years here were so invaluable. We wanted to leave a token of appreciation,' said the graduate's father as he handed the check to American University's provost at a late afternoon press conference.”

“She gets to graduate but everybody in the field knows what really happened,” Charles said. “Brent said universities can be bought, but they're not cheap - and ten million for a bachelor's degree isn't cheap, Tom.”

“There are rules; and then there are other rules,” Gantry agreed. “You know the father was gritting his teeth the whole time. 'Our daughter's years were invaluable.' Hah! He means worthless.”

“But she really wasn't all that bad ...” Tom mused. “She did a decent job and all.”

“You know, she probably never even thought it was wrong – what she did. She liked you personally, Tom.” Janice added. “In fact, she said she wouldn't mind knowing you better.”

“She knew it was wrong. She wasn't that oblivious.” Charles kept his eyes down on his work. “But who am I to talk?” It was the only time Charles had ever explicitly referred to his questionable affair with Brent.

“Totally different thing, Charles,” Tom said.

“No, it isn't. Not really.” The loud note of regret in Charles' voice made Gantry change the subject.

“Well, friends and countrymen, the end is in sight with the Freer inventory, I think,” she said, closing her folder of problem classifications. “Tom, how are we going to 'catalog', if that's the right word, what's in Apartment C.”

“Lucky's coming this afternoon to try to work that out. Any ideas before he gets here?”




Dimitri was enjoying questioning the odd couple in front of him. “Why can't you learn shuhplattler? If the Germans can do it, why can't an American and a Russian?”

“Uh … well … I guess ...” Alex didn't want to say no.

“No fucking way, Dimitri.” Phil wasn't mincing words. “We can't play and sing AND dance at the same time. The Germans don't do that either. Besides, isn't slap dancing Austrian or Swiss or something?”

“Are you sure?” Dimitri wheedled.

“Positive!” Phil flatly refused.

“Alright. It was an idea.”

Alex had never seen Dimitri so concessive before. Nobody ever talked to him the way Phil was doing and got away with it.

“What's the point of this, anyway?” Phil questioned. Alex shook his head no in warning, but Phil ignored him. “Why are you turning us into a Germany's Got Talent act?”

“A professional act, Mr. Scott. More in due time, meinen jungen, in due time ...” And that was all Dimitri had to say to his 'young men'. They were dismissed with instructions to play for a private party in AU Park that night.

Back at Phil's apartment, they were getting dressed for the party. “Dimitri's up to something, Alex. What's he doing, anyway?”

“He's getting us paid. Why are you complaining?”

“Because it doesn't make sense. It just doesn't make sense.” Phil puzzled over the actions of Alex's handler and then added, “You know, he's not as old as I thought. I think he's just playing around with us. Why, though? I can't figure out why? Shuhplattler! Jeez!”

Alex was standing in his underwear in front of a mirror. He watched himself and began humming a polka. He held his hands up and then began slapping his thighs, heels, and ass in time to the music. His cock was bouncing around in his briefs. He laughed at himself and started over, concentrating harder. He looked incredibly young and cute to Phil, who watched and laughed, too. When Alex paused, he hugged him.

“You're so serious sometimes and then other times you're totally goofy - and you go and charm the hell out of me.” Phil kissed Alex tenderly and then pulled back. He looked at Alex's face. “Your eyes aren't blue ... or green … or brown … they're all of those … they're ...”

“... hazel,” Alex said.

“They're beautiful,” Phil corrected and kissed his hazel-eyed friend again.

“We don't have time, Phil,” Alex said when Phil showed signs of arousal.

“I love you, Alex.” Phil waited for a response but didn't get anything more than a brief kiss back. “What comes next?” Phil followed up, not expecting an answer.

Alex thought and then his look brightened, “You're the salt in my soup.”

It didn't offer same satisfaction as 'I love you, too, Phil,' but it was a touching sentiment and Phil felt an inner warmth. “Is that a Russian expression?”

“No. It's a song - Du Bist die Salz in Meine Suppe. I thought we could learn it for next week. It would be a good duet, I think.”

“Oh ...” How many times did I do that to Ace, Phil wondered.




“It's something we really need, Fred. I hope you can find time to have a look. Would any time next week fit your schedule?” Alistair asked. The Right Honourable the Baroness Frederika Tangent was slow to answer.

“Meaning you want me to pay for it?” Fred shot back.

“No. I want your support with the advisors. The Smithsonian sold it as an inventory management tool, not as an art data base. I think we could do as well.”

“If you insist. Your office? Thursday at ten?”

“Perfect. Must dash.” Alistair hung up rather abruptly and dashed for the men's room. His demon disease never left him completely alone and served to undermine his confidence every time he thought the symptoms had become manageable. He was grateful that his screaming intestines provided sufficient warning this time.

“Are you well?” When Alistair returned Persephone was alarmed by his pallor.

“Sound as a pound,” Alistair replied, failing to sound as hearty as he hoped.

“I wonder if they say 'duro que un euro' in Spain,” Persephone mused trying to make light of things. “Do I need to arrange lodging for the Americans?”

“No, I don't think so. They can figure things out. London is full of hotels.” Alistair wasn't concerned except perhaps in the case of Tom who, at Alistair's request, was coming a week early for set up and rehearsals.

“Nothing?”

“Well, perhaps a small reception the day they get here. Nothing elaborate.”




Lucky was sure his plans had been a complete failure. As they drove back to the city from the Merridell dinner party, if it was fair to call a sandwich buffet and a lot of bourbon 'dinner', Lucky sounded as discouraged as Tom had ever heard.

“Why are you so depressed, Lucky?”

“Yeah, I thought it went well,” Mike added.

“I got you two invitations because I thought the three of us could provide a full explanation of the project and they didn't even ask. Not a word. Marjorie said the more the merrier when I asked if I could include you, and all we talked about was horses. What fucking horses? The barn was empty. The paddock was empty.”

“Of horses,” Tom laughed.

“What do you mean?”

“The one in the green dress? Mary?”

“Merrilee,” Lucky corrected.

“I fucked her in the barn. She was amazingly cool about it.”

“What?”

“The green dress? I thought it was the pink dress!” Mike said.

“That was Millicent. Don't tell me you fucked her, too.”

“No; but I offered to when she showed me her old bedroom ...”

“You OFFERED to??? Like … Hey Millicent, wanna fuck???” Lucky looked alarmed, certain the project was lost.

“Give me some credit, Lucky. I wasn't that blatant. I said I thought the bed looked comfortable. She called me a rascal and went for another bourbon. I don't think she minded at all.”

Lucky made strangling noises and pounded the steering wheel. He loosened his tie and considered alternatives to his present career path. “Well, there's suicide, I guess. Or a double murder.” He glared at Mike and Tom.

“What's that noise? The engine?” Tom asked. They were three abreast in the seat of the Smithsonian's pickup, the best in the way of an official vehicle tht Lucky could scare up for the night.

“It's my phone,” Lucky muttered.

“Aren't you going to answer it?” Mike asked.

“It's in my pocket. I'll get it later.”

“I'll get it,” Mike, the middle passenger, offered. Mike groped around but never got the phone out. “Can't find the phone, Lucky. Nice dick though.” Mike gave him a gentle squeeze and quit looking.

Lucky pulled to the side of Georgetown Pike and fished out the phone himself, he checked the call. “Merridell … She's gonna toast me alive.” He punched a couple buttons. “Marjorie … uh-huh … You said … yes … ok … yes … Marjorie, I want to ...” The line went dead.

“You want to what? Apologize?” Tom asked.

“Thank her. We got the art. And that old guy I talked to is paying for the installation. He thinks I'm cute.”

“You are cute ... when you think nobody is looking,” Mike said.

“Cute?” Lucky was briefly bewildered until the excitement took over. “We GOT THE ART! We HAVE JOBS. I LOVE YOU GUYS!”

“Lucky, it's a small cab. I can hear you,” Tom joked.

“And YOU! You offered to fuck her? What about ME?” Lucky kissed Mike. “I'd kiss you, too, Tom; but you're too far away.” He kissed Mike again. The repeated “I love you guys” was plural, but only Mike got the kisses.




The next morning Brent was much more pleased than he let on about the donation news; it would be the unquestionable highlight of his career at the Smithsonian. Then he was absolutely triumphant when he heard about Mike. “What did I tell you ...” Brent consulted his calendar and looked Lucky in the eye. “... exactly ten years, two months, and six days ago?”

“You said I was as gay as a picnic basket.”

“And you refused to accept it,” Brent savored his accurate assessment. “Is he … uh, doing what you used to like?”

“Fucking me? Every chance he gets – which is five times in three days.”

“Well … what's the problem?”

Lucky shrugged, reluctant to discuss the matter further. “None, I guess.”

“Lucky, Lucky, Lucky.” Brent shook his head. “Poor baby. You want him to love you and he's just … how old?”

“Twenty-four, I think.”

“And how old were you ten years, two months, and six days ago?” Brent didn't wait for an answer. “So you already know what he's feeling.”

“He's not the way I was, Brent. He's much more mature and really perceptive. Smarter, too. He knows instinctively how to deal with people. He's so competent at everything, which makes him confident; but he's not aggressive or pushy. And he has no idea how gorgeous he is. He acts so down-to-earth ...”

“Then he's exactly the way I thought you were. And you're crazy about him. How long has it been?”

“Three days. Like I said.”

Brent didn't laugh; but he smiled and patted Lucky on the shoulder. “Poor baby. But you'll survive. I did.”
 
arogersb, thanks for taking the time to compliment. My stories meander and mistakes creep in, but I try.

There is a horrible mistake in this one: Lucky's real name changes as the story progresses. ](*,)
 
Rory.
You're killing me.
I was just getting ready to head to bed when I saw your post.
5AM comes too damned early!

Another great installment. The proper lady was bedded in the barn and sated, the next, suitably amused and entertained.

And the boys had a great trip back to the garage.

I see it appears we are getting ready to send our man, Tom Terrific, off to olde London Towne for their next presentation and project.

American appears to be making out quite well in the outcome of the situation.

Our Russo-American relations appear to have acquired a Bavarian Creme flavour to them.

Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel for the next installment of who's banging whom in the greater Metro DC District?!
 
Chapter Twenty-Six


“You're staying where? Is that the South Bank?” Alistair's usual American visitors stayed in much tonier places.

“It's called the Mad Hatter. I can walk here in about thirty minutes; in fact, I just did,” Tom announced. “It's convenient and reasonable, compared to other London prices,” In fact, £115 for his very modest room was outrageous compared to American budget hotels, but a London location, even the South Bank, commanded a premium.

“If you say so. You had better hope it doesn't rain … Did you bring the photographs of Brent's find? I'd love to see them.”

Alistair caught Tom in mid-yawn. “Sorry, I'm still jet-lagged. Yes. They're not the best because of the lighting, but you should get a good idea ...” Tom pulled a dozen blowups from his folder.

“Oh … I can see why Brent is so pleased. How will he display all this?” Alistair rapidly went through the pile of photos and them returned to the first for a closer look.

“The idea is to transfer the apartment intact to the Freer. Traffic flows for viewing are still being worked out. A completely accurate layout would limit the number of people who could fit, so Lucky is working on expanded passages that won't distort the artist's intent – he hopes.”

“I see … Persephone, this is Tom Kearny from the Smithsonian. Tom, Persephone Plimpton, my genius of a superior.”

Persephone stood behind Alistair and looked over his shoulder at the photos. “He means I'm a useful assistant most of the time. Welcome to the Museum, Mr. Kearny. Coffee?”

“Yes, please. And call me Tom.” Tom yawned again.

“Let's just set up a schedule of your requirements and you can go back to the 'Mad Hatter' for a nap,” Persephone proposed. She returned shortly with a coffee tray and Tom handed her a prepared list of what he proposed to use. “Aren't you efficient. This list looks comprehensive. Seven laptops and a display screen. What are these other items?”

“Any of your IT staff should know exactly what I need, Ms. Plimpton.”

“Well, practically speaking, I am the IT staff, unless you have a month to go through channels.”

“She is also the kitchen staff, the typing pool, the travel clerk , the human resources department, and a charming date, if you're alone in the city,” Alistair said without looking up from the photos. Alistair's phone rang and he moved from the conference table back to his desk.

“Yes, Fred … the first one is here already, setting up... Really? … I'll ask.” Alistair covered the phone and asked, “Tom, are you free for dinner tomorrow night?”




Lucky left Apartment C, satisfied that the dehumidification and air circulation systems were reliable and functioning. He returned to Apartment A to change clothes and was surprised to find Mike still there. “You're still home? I thought you left for work, Mike.”

“Mmmm, no. I'm Matt. And you're Lucky, right? They guy who's putting the moves on my brother?”

“Yes, I'm Lucky. Technically, he's putting the ...”

“Are your intentions honorable? Are you going to marry him?” Matt looked very grim, staring a hole through Lucky.

Lucky was flustered. “We haven't made any ...”

“Yeah, I know what that's like. You're healthy and all?”

“Healthy? Yes. Hay fever sometimes, in the summer, but ...”

“Good. May you live happily ever after. Do you want anything in the kitchen? Because I'm about to scrub the floor.”

“No. Go ahead. Why are you scrubbing the floor?”

“It's a deal Mike and I have. Plus I'm unemployed.”

“You're an actor?”

“I'd like to be.”

Lucky decided Matt was going to be friendly after all. “If I marry Mike, do I inherit you?”

Matt laughed. “No. Maybe. Probably. But I'll scrub your floors.” Mike knelt and began scrubbing.

“Don't worry. You're safe. Mike isn't serious about me.”

“Lucky?” Matt looked up from the floor. Suddenly the levity vanished. “Mike's pretty serious about everything. That would include you. It's just hard to tell what he's thinking.”

Lucky went to change and Matt resumed scrubbing the floor. When he was finished, he took the bucket of dirty water to the porch to pour into a planter and spotted Lucky wrapped in a towel coming out of the bathroom. “Cute ass, brother-in-law.”

“Skinny is your brother's opinion.”

“No shit? He told you that? He IS serious.”




“It's a good deal, Brent. I'll be working for Gantry and the office will be on Wisconsin near Van Ness; so I can walk to work.” Charles punched at his pillow getting more comfortable.

“It's not that close, Charles. And you're capable of so much more than being a data entry clerk.”

“Are you trying to get rid of me? Is my time as 'Brent's Boy' up?” Charles came out with the real question.

“Charles, dear boy, Gantry drinks. I'm not sure she's a stable ...”

“You can't judge her based on one afternoon when she was getting dumped. She has never missed a day with Tom. He trusts her enough to put her in charge. And the job title may be data entry clerk, but I'm learning lots more. Tom treats everybody like we're in training to run the whole company.”

“But you got that great offer from New York ...”

“That offer was to become somebody else's boy and you know it. Don't string me along, Brent. If we're done, say so. You can move on. I can move … somewhere.”

“Charles, you're being way too dramatic. Nobody's moving anywhere. Come here.” Brent held out his arms but instead of sliding over Charles got out of bed.

“I'm going to take a quick shower. I've got dried cum all over me. I'll be right back.”

Brent watched him close the bathroom door and smiled to himself, sorry only that he had come before he got his cock into Charles' ass. Well, hot as Charles is, but maybe it is time for a change, he thought; but it has to be his idea.

Charles took his time showering, longer than usual, going over in his own mind what had transpired. He kept his eyes closed and the constant drumming of water pounding on his head drowned out any distractions. He knew he didn't want to leave Brent but he wasn't sure why. It wasn't a mad passionate love affair, but it was so good in every other way. He's smart and funny, Charles thought; and I do think he likes me more than a little. The sex is more than good, even if it isn't fabulous; and I know it's great for him. He keeps telling me that. And I like waking up with him every morning. He's like a father almost - a very sexy, loving father. A sexy father with a big dick, Charles thought. It's too bad he came before he fucked me tonight; he's such a comfortable fuck, not frantic and clumsy, just slow and considerate. Alright, he concluded, maybe I am being too dramatic.

Brent watched Charles walk across the room and admired the view. Charles cock even when it was soft always looked as if it was one stroke away from being a monster erection, one heart-beat away from flooding engorgement. Most of the time, that was all it took. One stroke, one kiss. Brent kissed away a few drops of water the towel had missed and felt Charles harden in his hand.

“Are you tired? Your cock doesn't seem to be.”

“No, not tired. How 'bout if I give you a massage?”

“By the time you warm the oil and everything, Charles, I will be tired.”

Charles rolled Brent over and said, “I'm already ninety-eight point six. If you can handle room-temperature oil …” Charles reached into the night table and got out a squeeze bottle. He dribbled some up and down Brent's spine. “ … this will work well enough, I think.”

“Mmmmm,” Brent agreed, as he enjoyed the pressure of hands all over him and the heft of Charles' cock lying on his ass.

Charles had learned massage from a man who enjoyed the service of professionals. Charles' technique was almost as good as his teacher's. He soon had Brent purring like a cat.

“How old are you, Brent?” Charles knew the answer.

“Fortyyyyyy-six,” Brent decided.

Charles smiled knowing the real answer was a couple of numbers higher. “You're in great shape. The muscles in your back look like you spend all day on a tennis Court. Nice firm ass ...” Charles let his cock do some of the massaging of Brent's ass.

“Mmmm,” Brent sighed, knowing what was happening. And then he changed his mind. “No, wait.”

Charles didn't wait, he just reduced the pressure, penetrating very slowly. “What?” He continued until he was all the way in.

“Nothing. Go ahead,” Brent said.

Usually in mid-fuck, on those occasions when Charles was doing the work, they would switch positions; but tonight, Brent just relaxed and let Charles have his fun. Feeling the boy's ardor was pleasure in its own way, Brent thought, and then he realized: I'm not even hard. That was a sobering thought. Yes, he had come a half hour earlier, but he always got hard, even if he didn't come every time. By the time Charles came, Brent was growing annoyed. At what? Because this vigorous young man was an always-on fuck machine? Not fair, all young men are. I'm changing, thought Brent. It wasn't supposed to happen; I was supposed to be immortal, forever young. Despite Charles post-orgasmic panting, all Brent could hear was the ticking of the grandfather clock in the hallway.




The private party appearance had been a success. The crowd had been mainly from the German Embassy and their praise was lavish. The German and Tirolean folk songs had been a hit, with most of the party growing sentimental and singing along.

“I think my guitar is stuffed with money,” Phil said as they walked back to his apartment.

“They really got into it,” Alex agreed. “I told you that 'Salt in my Soup' thing would be good.”

Once inside, Phil partly unstrung his guitar to get the money out. He was happily fishing out some sizable tips when Alex's phone buzzed. “Shit,” Phil moaned. “Some of these are euro notes. At least there aren't any coins.”

Alex closed his phone and took the guitar from Phil's hands. “Sex now,” Alex said. It was more than a request and less than an order. Phil didn't mind at all.

The sex wasn't full of Alex's usual post-performance heat. In fact it was kind of messy. Just when Phil thought Alex was about to come, he pulled out. “Fuck me, Phil. Right now, ok?" So they switched roles until Phil got close. Then Alex twisted away and pinned Phil to the bed, reentering him roughly.

“What's going on, Alex?”

“I want to fuck you. I want to get fucked. I want everything right now. I don't know what I want.” Alex was pumping hard, grinding Phil into the bed. Suddenly he pulled out and rolled Phil over. He began kissing him desperately.

“Alex, why the tears?”

“I'm a stupid, sentimental Russian,” Alex slipped his dick into Phil, gently this time and quickly came just as gently. “Now fuck me.”

Phil complied, equally gently. “You're not stupid, Alex. Crazy, maybe. Not stupid at all. Not … and I love you.” Phil tried to comfort Alex who was still fighting some kind of demon and didn't want to be comforted. “I've never seen you like this.”

“Get dressed. Dimitri wants to see me. It's probably a new assignment. God knows where. He wants to see you too.”

Phil's mood collapsed, and the walk to the embassy seemed like a walk to an execution.

Dimitri was cordial, brisk, and efficient. “The last business has been cleaned up by the people in the other building and it's time to look forward. Your performance this evening at the party was very favorably remarked upon.”

“Time to look forward? Are we looking forward to a musical career?” Phil interrupted, despite Alex's cautioning frown.

“Well, that's why I asked you both to come. I'd like to offer you an assignment, you and Sasha.”

“I'm not going to spy on my own country.” Phil's response was instant. Then he asked, “Sasha?”

Alex stepped hard on Phil's foot. “Shh!”

Dimitri smiled. “No one is asking you to spy. We are agents of the customs service. It would be a business matter, a customs matter. No security issues involved. No American issues involved in any way, although there might be some risk. Some danger. I want you to think about it. Both of you.”

“I don't think I need to think ...” Phil grinned.

“Yes, you do,” Dimitri was adamant. “The risk could be deadly. The two of you need to think and talk about whether you could take that risk together.”

All through the walk back to Phil's, Alex argued against the idea and Phil argued in favor. Abruptly Phil asked, “Why did he call you Sasha?”

“He likes me.”

“The old pervert ...” Phil muttered, imagining the worst possible scenarios for Alex's relationship with Dimitri. “Did he …?”

“He was my father's best friend. He's known me since I was born.”

Phil thought about that and then asked, “The people in the other building? What was that about?”

“Case resolution. We'll probably never see Art again.”

They got to Phil's apartment and Alex hesitated at the door. Phil pulled him inside. “Come on, Alex. Nothing has changed.”

“Everything has changed.”

They undressed and got into bed in silence. “Alex ...” Phil began.

“Statistically, one of us would be dead in ten years.”

More silence followed. Alex at first resisted any contact but eventually allowed Phil to hold his hand. Phil felt a slight thaw. He pressed Alex's hand to his lips, and kissed each finger. “I want to spend those ten years with you.”




Mike smiled and Debbie beamed. “Your baby is developing beautifully. See his hand just moved.” The doctor pointed to the ultrasound monitor. “You'll be feeling kicks any day now.”

“HIS hand?” Debbie asked.

“Yes, a boy. It's not obvious yet, but it will be soon.”

“Mike?” Debbie looked for reassurance.

Mike just nodded, unable to take his eyes off the screen, in awe of what he was watching. “I don't care. Boy or girl, the baby is beautiful either way.”

“Another month and the baby will be viable in case of premature birth, almost guaranteed,” the doctor added, instantly sowing worries in Debbie's mind.

“My partner wanted to come,” Debbie told the doctor, changing the subject, “but she has a huge job in Warrenton.”

“Oh,” the doctor commented, “that's right. I always see the two of you. I forgot you aren't a couple. So … I'll see you again in a month, Debbie. Call immediately if anything seems unusual; if you can't get me, go to an ER immediately.”




“I'm pleased to meet you, Lady Tangent.” Tom hoped he was being correct.

“You are supposed to be honoured to meet me, but to hell with that, Tom. Call me Fred.” After more pleasantries, their fish was served and Lady Tangent got to the point. “Are you heterosexual?”

“I used to be ... Fred.”

“When were you last?”

“Um, Saturday. The circumstances called for ...”

“And you performed brilliantly, I'm sure.”

“Adequately, I'd say.”

“What were the circumstances?”

“In the hay loft of a barn in Virginia.”

“How rustic. Why do you say you were 'adequate'?”

“I was on the bottom; I did my best, but the hay was itchy and distracting.”

“Very gallant of you.” She turned to her left. “I like him, Alistair. Hire him.”

“I'm afraid there are international complications, Fred. We can't just hire him.”

“Do I need to marry him?” Fred patted Tom's hand. “I could do worse,” she said to Tom.

“The problems aren't with the law; they're with the Museum. They don't like hiring non-citizens without unique qualifications. While Tom is in every respect amazing...”

“I'll bet he is.” Fred finished the sole and sipped her wine.

“ … he is not unique.” Alistair mopped up the last of his butter sauce with a bit of bread.

“How would it be if the BFL fronted for him?”

“Well, that could work, I suppose.”

“The British Foreign Legion is a company I manage that runs some banana plantations and other interesting projects,” Fred explained. “Good, then. I'll talk to counsel tomorrow. Consider it done. I'm sorry we won't be marrying, Tom. Maybe for the next project.” The Baroness left Tom and Alistair to finish their meal.

“She was joking, right? About marrying me?” Tom asked.

“Maybe. She's done a LOT worse. I believe the BFL employs a couple of her ex-husbands. What will your company think about all this?”

“We're very flexible. I'm sure if there's a way we will help you find it.”

“And your set up? How's it coming?”

“Persephone is a genius as you said. I'm ready to go.”

“And it's only Wednesday night… Would you like to visit Norfolk for the weekend? It will get you out of that Mad South Bank Hattery and the June weather should be good. Yes? Good. We'll leave at noon tomorrow.”

They parted outside Wheeler's Restaurant. Tom headed to his hotel and Alistair to his apartment.

“Edmund? I've invited young Tom for the weekend. You'll like him. Fred offered to marry him.” They shared a laugh and more news and then Alistair made a second call. “Alfred? Remember the invitation to come and draw? … Of course, I was serious. How would Friday be? … Oh, mid-morning, I think. Bring your sketch pad. The light will be good.”
 
Rory,
I've had a hard time reading tonight - stayed up too late last night for the final episode of Survivor, tonight the semi-finals for Dancing with the stars, family discussions.

And, a most intriguing installment from DC and across the pond.

From the end, first, Matchmaker, Matchmaker, make me a match?
Is Alistair looking to keep Tom entertained while he's in the UK?
Or, is Alistair looking to expand his special drawing presentation portfolio?

The whole LAdy Tangent/Fred confuses the hell out of me, lol.

Mike & Debbie's baby - it sounds like they have some concerns regarding the baby's viability/problems??? Did I miss something somewhere along the line, or just nervous nellie kind of talk/my tired interpretation?

Phil & Alex, Russian Customs International Agents, and "married" couple - with a life expectancy of 10 years due to danger. At least they're being allowed to be together, if that's their choice.

Charles & Brent . . . Charles knows, in the back of his mind, that Brent is trying to dump him, but doesn't want it to be the end.
At the same time, Brent is starting to get confused - he's "growing tired" of a most wonderful relationship? Then, wait, he's not getting hard while Charles is filling him up . . . maybe he will understand that it's not boredom, it's his changing physicality, and this relationship may be worth saving.

Lucky, Mike, and Matt - and just how serious is Mike about Lucky?! Matt appears to think VERY - and the opine of SKINNY BUTT seals it, lol.

Which brings us back to Tom getting into the UK and the original meeting.

Did I get everything covered - aside from forgetting to mention poor Persephone,lol?
 
Riveting instalment , Rory... Looking forward to the next one!
 
Chapter Twenty-Seven



Mike was pleased with the prospect of fatherhood, something he had never seriously considered as a possibility once he decided he was gay. He told a less enthusiastic Lucky every detail of the office visit.

Although it was early evening, Mike's child-centered exhilaration was expansive enough to shift to Lucky. “Plus, I have you,” Mike said, “And you ... you are pretty amazing yourself, Mr. Skinny-Ass.”

Mike pressed up against Lucky's back and kissed his neck, leaving the decision of whether they went farther up to Lucky; but Lucky had no real choice. Mike had a way of touching Lucky that drove Lucky crazy; his hands transmitted an exquisite pressure, which seemed to convey curiosity, appreciation, and passion all at once; so of course, they went farther.

“Tom's in London. We could do it right here on the porch,” Mike suggested. “It would be healthy … “ Lucky was melting in Mike's arms under the seduction of touches and kisses. “Good fresh air … A little work out … You've been cooped up all day ...”

Lucky struggled out of Mike's embrace and then out of his sweat shirt before he let Mike take control back. He took a deep breath and, thanks to his skinny ass, his shorts just kind of fell off. Lucky caught his breath as Mike picked him up and lay him on the lounge chair they used for tanning. Lucky was immediately enveloped in the sexy aroma of sun tan oil and the scent of Mike. He knew what was coming as Mike straddled the chaise and rested Lucky's ankles on his shoulders. Mike wiggled closer to Lucky, close enough that his cock rested against Lucky's asshole. The only lube they had or needed was a combination of spit and desire. Lucky whimpered as Mike penetrated; and then Mike leaned forward and kissed him, letting him get accustomed to the heat and hardness of his cock. Lucky was as limp and helpless as a rag doll while Mike pumped into him with increasing force and speed.

Mike's kisses never stopped, covering every available part of Lucky he could reach. Lucky pulled him closer, afraid to let go and wanting more at the same time. Lucky's weakness turned into a demanding strength as he pulled Mike into him; Lucky was shocked to realize the cries he heard were his own.

“Fuck me! Do it! Don't stop!”

Mike's cock seemed to grow in response, penetrating deeper and triggering some neural explosion in them both. Sweaty and gasping, they shared the resulting orgasms. The chaise shook with the pulsing of their bodies and the weathered wood of the porch deck groaned and creaked as they convulsed. Gasping for air, still trembling, Mike fell limply against Lucky. They couldn't form kisses but they pressed their open mouths against each other's bodies with a hunger neither had ever felt before.

As breath and hints of reality slowly returned, Lucky enjoyed the afterglow. I don't need to tell him I love him, Lucky thought; I just gave him the ultimate demonstration. Lucky held Mike close.

Mike pulled back enough to smile at Lucky, a smile so full of passion and affection that Lucky couldn't stand to watch. He closed his eyes, and then opened them again, still seeing the same adoring gaze. He shut his eyes again waiting for Mike's confirming kiss.

Mike wasn't afraid to say how he felt. “My God, that's what I love about you, Lucky. The most amazing, uninhibited sex I've ever known! You just let 'er rip! With none of the complications that always ruin everything. No crazy 'I love you'; no grand promises, no silly commitments. Just straight sex - or should I say gay sex – the best in the world.” Mike got up as happy as a kid with a new toy. “Let's take a shower. And have something to eat. Gotta keep your strength up. Don't want that skinny ass getting worn out!” He put his arm around Lucky as they walked naked into the apartment. “I sure hope you're getting as much out of this as I am. My God! Here's to uncomplicated sex. The best kind.”

Lucky pretended that he got soap in his eyes in the shower. It was the easy way to explain their redness to Mike.




Is there such a thing as love at first sight? Alfred was convinced there was that morning. He couldn't take his eyes off Tom. “Do you want to walk to the beach?” he asked in response to Alistair's suggestion that they go out before the weather turned.

Alfred had enjoyed a bit of footie as well as track events at school and was in better than reasonable shape, but everything he did was suddenly clumsy in the presence of Tom. “Let's stop here, ok?” he suggested, afraid he would end up in the water if they didn't. “Ok, if I draw you?”

“The scenery is so great, why would you want to waste the charcoal … is that what you're using? … on me?”

“Mmm. There is charcoal in the box, but I'm using graphite and some colored pencils. Browns.” Alfred was relieved to find his hands operating normally and his voice under control. “Alistair said to draw the most interesting thing in the scene and that would be you at the moment.” Oh, shit, did I say too much, Alfred wondered.

“Just me? Sitting on this rock? Like some kind of nerdy mermaid? I guess I mean mer-man,” Tom chuckled.

“Mm-hmm, just you … and the rock … and the ship on the horizon. With the look of a storm coming. Only the rock has permanence.”

“Interesting idea. The ship and I will hide from the storm. The rock has different concerns.”

“Would you be too cold if you opened up your jacket?”

Tom unzipped his windbreaker and let it hang open. “Like this? What if my shoes were in my hand instead of on my feet? A sense of vulnerability?”

“Or we could have you naked on the rock with a Welsh dragon about to eat you. That would be vulnerable.” They were silent for a while while Alfred drew.

“You start work next week?”

“Yes, on the high road to becoming a chartered accountant. A modern-day Uriah Heep.”

“No. You wouldn't accept Heep's limitations.” Suddenly, at Tom's statement, the sun broke through, totally changing the scene.

“That's that, I guess. Drawing you with sunshine on your face would completely change the point of the sketch.”

“Can I see?”

The drawing showed a man sitting on a rock with his hands at his sides leaning slightly forward. A pair of shoes sat next to him, although the sketch ended slightly below the man's knees. There was no way to tell if his feet were actually bare or not and it was hard to tell if the man was looking out of the drawing at the viewer. The man was Tom in generalities, but the specifics were left vague. The sea horizon was indicated, with a wisp of smoke but no ship present.

“When you're famous, they'll call this a 'Booth study for a larger work never completed; model unknown.' “

“The work of accountants never gets titled.” Alfred turned the page over. “Let me try a speed drawing, what my instructor called the best one can do in five minutes. Open your shirt a couple of buttons?”

Five minutes later Alfred showed Tom the drawing of a young man sitting in the sun, with a few freckles on his face and a smile. It was a young man any viewer would want to know, an image of intelligence and a hint of sexiness. As Tom examined the work and watched, Alfred wrote, Sunshine and Tom Kearny, American. Summer, 2010. A. Booth. “There. No more anonymous models. I hate those paintings where the model is described as a young woman thought to be the artist's wife.

“Can you do it without the model? Without me, I mean?”

“Check your watch. Come back in five minutes,” Alfred said.

Five minutes later Tom looked at a very recognizable depiction of himself, naked on a rock, about to be eaten by a dragon. His mouth fell open in amazement. “I'm circumcised.” It was all he could think of to say.

With two strokes of the pencil Alfred corrected the error of his imagination. “What do you think?”

“Amazing. You got all that from a couple of open buttons? I think you make me look a lot better than I do.”

“I doubt it,” Alfred laughed.

They walked back to the cottage talking about how computer programming and accounting were conceptually related skills. The concept was a stretch, but it made Alfred feel very comfortable that Tom considered him a peer. With the cottage in sight, the clouds returned and a light rain began. They sprinted the rest of the way.

“Right on time,” Alistair said to the slightly damp pair. “Tea is ready. Where did you go?”

The fire dried them and the tea and scones were the perfect accompaniment. Tom described the hours they had been out and Alistair demanded to see the sketches.

“I couldn't finish that one. The light changed,” Alfred explained. “The dragon? Yes, that was pure fancy. Tom asked what I could do from memory with no model. Oh … memory and imagination, I mean. He never actually posed ...” Both Tom and Alistair laughed at Alfred's quick-step around questions raised by the nudity.

Alistair went to talk to Edmund and returned to say he and Edmund needed to pick up a few things for dinner. He invited the men to make themselves at home for the brief duration of the shopping trip. Without discussion, he and Edmund left and almost immediately the skies opened up.

A driving rainstorm came off the sea. It was windy enough to throw sheets of water against the windows and darken the house so that the fire was essential for both warmth and light.

“I'll turn some lights on,” Alfred suggested.

“Not yet. Let's just watch the storm for a while. Ok? We never got many storms in California. Just in February sometimes ...” Tom was enjoying watching the spectacle of the storm and Alfred was enjoying watching the more personal spectacle of his new friend sitting just a foot away.

“I hope you didn't mind me drawing you nude ...”

“Alistair did it. Why not you? I'm starting to think that's what English men do.”

“He did? He drew one of me but he didn't have the right pens, he said. I'm fully clothed. I was hoping it would be one of the famous Dragons.”

“Maybe that's why you drew the dragon about to eat me.”

It was too dark for Tom to see the flush flare in Alfred's face. “No … it was pure coincidence. I never thought that Alistair might ...”

“Eat me for dinner?” Tom laughed. “Oh, I see, you mean sexually. No I never thought that either.”

“Well, the stories, about Alistair when he was younger ...” Alfred felt everything he said was making things worse; he didn't know how to get out of the traps in this conversation.

“There are stories about me when I was younger, too,” Tom admitted.

“You're not old.”

“No, but I'm not nearly as wild as I used to be.”

“How wild?”

“They called me Engine … 'cause I was always … you know.”

Alfred shook his head, bewildered. “Engine?”

Tom leaned back and raised his hips. The pronounced bulge in his pants was unmistakable and luridly emphasized by the orange glow of the fire. Alfred couldn't look away; his mouth went dry. What does he expect me to do? Tom twisted and turned. Alfred tentatively reached forward.

“Phone,” Tom explained. He wrestled the instrument out of his front pocket and sat back down. “I didn't know anyone had this number … Hello?”

Alfred backed off quickly. He got up and walked to the window letting his breath slowly out.

“Persephone? Yes … yes, both of us … sure; that won't be a problem. Thanks for the call.” Tom joined Alfred at the window. “Some storm … I guess it's just us.”

“Wh-what are you talking about?” Alfred asked.

“That was Alistair's assistant. She was the only one who knew how to call me. Alistair and Edmund are staying in Norwich because of the storm. It's just us here for dinner – unless you plan to go out in this. Can you stay with me? Do you want to?”

With me? Alfred was going crazy. Everything Tom said was innocent and seductive at the same time. “Is there room?”

“Just one room upstairs, but two beds. Plenty of room. The problem is going to be dinner. Persephone said we should make the best of whatever is available. I don't suppose there's a pizza place that delivers, is there?”

“I think there's vindaloo … and a fish-and-chips place, and a couple of pubs in Wells, but I don't know if they deliver even on a good night.”

“Am I making you nervous?” Tom asked. “You keep backing up.”

“He's awfully sweet, Al. He's gone with me to every checkup.”

“Debbie, you know I'd go with you, if I didn't have these jobs that are half way to the Blue Ridge.”

“I know and I'm not faulting you. I could easily go alone, but Mike always offers and if there were bad news … it's nice to have him there. Don't feel bad about it.”

“Wow!” Ann came into the room looking googly-eyed carrying a glass of something on the rocks. “I just watched the most fantastic fuck I've ever seen!”

“I didn't know you were into porn,” Al commented.

“No. Mike and Lucky. I had to change my panties. My God! I wish somebody would take me in hand like that.”

Al relaxed, forgetting her slight jealousy of Mike. “Lucky really nailed him, huh?”

“As if … I'm surprised Lucky can still walk. I was sitting on the porch by myself … just sipping a little drink … when they started going at it on the other side of the dormer. You know it's impossible to see over there unless you lean really far out over the railing … “

Al's jealousy was rekindled, as she listened.

“... and I was afraid I'd end up in the trees I was leaning out so far.” Ann laughed and showed signs that her story was over.

“Yes! And then?” Debbie squealed.

“Mike tossed Lucky around like he was a girl. And Lucky loved it. Who wouldn't? I loved it! And I could barely see it was getting so dark. I tell you, a gay guy might not be a bad compromise at all, if Prince Charming never rides up the path.” Ann sipped her little drink and winked. “He's big, isn't he, Debbie?”

“Who?” Debbie pretended indifference, squeezing her legs together.

“Mike, of course.”

“Well, I don't have a lot of experience to compare ...”

“You should have heard Lucky moan and groan. He's big. No doubt about that. And what a body!” Ann took another sip of her drink and watched Al chug a whole beer.

Serious feminists violently deny the reality of Freud's concept of penis envy; it's preposterous, inconceivable, a typical male attempt to marginalize women; but, granting that it doesn't exist, something very close to penis envy described Al's frame of mind as she went for another beer. And he wasn't just a sperm donor – Mike fucked Debbie. Her Debbie!

Al needed something. A sex-change? A bigger strap-on? She felt irrelevant as Debbie's pregnancy developed without her. There was no one there to tell her that all husbands feel something similar as all attention focuses on their ballooning, beatific wives.
 
Rory,
Quite an interesting chapter. A bit more focused on just two fronts - Tom & Alfred, as suspected - "thrown" together by our elder statesmen couple in a blinding storm,

And then Mike the master stud, driving it home inside Lucky, whose moniker seems to be making more sense, as of late, and the eyes of jealousy and penis envy in our not-so-happy-at-the-moment lesbian mothers-to-be.

Tom really is a self-effacing guy - our good old "Engine".

Thanks!
 
Your story continues in fine style! An excellent read.
 
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