Doing Hard Time

[arogersb]

~ Chapter 15 ~​

From the Narrative of Harrison Ridgeway IV:

I smiled to myself as I drove home. Josh had been reluctant to let me go home until I’d explained that I had to attend dinner because my sister and her husband were coming over. We’d parted with a goodbye kiss, which he’d given me on the sidewalk outside the café. It had been dark, and hardly anyone else was around, so it wasn’t really as daring as it might seem. But for me it was the first taste of freedom, even though I was still a long way from coming out.

As I drove back, I noticed a black car in my rear-view mirror. It looked similar to the one I’d seen outside Dean’s apartment earlier that day. Was someone following me? I shook the thought from my head. Why would someone be tailing me? I told myself I was being unnecessarily paranoid. When I turned into the street on which my house was, the car continued straight on.

Phoebe and her husband, Ronald, were already at the house when I arrived. After how our last dinner conversation had ended, I was nervous about seeing Dad again. However I was sure there wouldn’t be a repeat tonight, not with Phoebe and Ronald also there. Phoebe has always been Dad’s golden child, so much so that he hadn’t made a big deal out of her falling in love and marrying a lecturer. While he wasn’t rich or influential (which is what Dad had hoped for), Ronald was a very nice guy, four years older than Phoebe. He lectured in economics, and since I’d done my degree in that subject, he’d been an invaluable help during university.

During dinner I kept my conversation to a minimum. I didn’t want to give Dad any reason to explode or make threats at the dinner table – it wouldn’t be fair on the rest, especially since we all only had dinner together once in a while. Ronald asked me what I planned to do, in terms of a job, which made me realize I hadn’t thought about it at all. I’d always assumed I’d handle the finances for Dad’s office and political campaign; but now I wasn’t so sure how I felt about that, or whether Dad even wanted me to.

I managed to get through dinner without making eye contact with Dad, although I did notice him looking at me strangely a couple of times. The jubilation I’d felt earlier faded away; Dad always seemed to have that effect on me.

I wasn’t going to be daunted by this, I promised myself. Everything was going so well. As I drifted off to sleep, I thought how things looked so much better today than they had in a long time. So I went to sleep with a smile on my face, dreaming of Josh.

I should have known better. This was only the calm before a storm.


From the Narrative of Reid Emerson Scott:

I downed my fifth – or was it sixth? – glass and asked the barman for another. He looked concerned.

“Haven’t you had enough already? That stuff’s strong.”

“Look, I’m paying, aren’t I? So your job is to keep pouring, not offer unwanted advice,” I snapped at him.

He shrugged as if to say “It’s your funeral” and poured another glass. Well, it’s not as if I had a choice. What was I to do when the guy I loved didn’t love me back? The worst part was he didn’t even seem to know that I loved him.

Which left me sitting by myself in a gay bar. I wasn’t looking for anyone to pick me up, just trying to drown my sorrows in alcohol. I hadn’t done that in a long time, I realized. Josh didn’t like me to get drunk, so I’d cut back on the alcohol intake. Yeah, well, he certainly did a good job of straightening me out – before dumping my sorry ass the moment he got a pretty boyfriend like Harrison.

I swallowed the contents of the glass. Was it just me, or was the room getting kind of blurry?

“Hi there, handsome.” A guy came and sat down on the stool next to me. He wasn’t very attractive – about mid-forties, beer belly and thinning hair.

“Can I buy you a drink?”

“Um … sure.” I wasn’t that drunk to not know he was trying to hit on me. He definitely wasn’t my type though. I was distracted by the sound of a cell phone ringing. It took me a moment to realize it was my own.

I snapped it open and stared at the display, which read ‘Josh calling’. I rejected the call and put the phone back into my pocket.

Next to me, the guy noted, “You’ve got nice arms.” He was eyeing my biceps which were exposed by the sleeveless t-shirt.

“Um … thanks,” I said drowsily. I barely noticed him feeling my arm. It wasn’t a bad sensation; it was kind of nice to have someone pay attention to you, even if that guy wasn’t all that good-looking.

“So can I take you home with me?” he asked.

“Wh-what?” I wasn’t sure about that. “N-no, I have to g-get home,” I slurred. I tried to get up and stumbled. The guy reached out and grabbed me by the arm, preventing me from falling.

“Hold on there, buddy. You’re in no state to drive home. C’mon, I’ll give you a lift.”

“Uh, okay.” He helped me out of the bar and into his car. I fought a losing battle to keep my eyes open, and finally gave up.

***​

I opened my eyes blearily and shut them again immediately. The bright sunlight managed to intrude even through my closed eyelids. My head felt like someone was trying to split it open with a sledgehammer. I moaned.

“Good morning, handsome,” I heard a stranger’s voice say. I quickly opened my eyes. This wasn’t my bedroom.

“Where the hell am I?” I asked, sitting up in the bed.

The guy looked confused. “In my house, of course.” I recognized him vaguely from the bar, the night before.

“What the fuck am I doing here?” I realized that I was naked under the bedcovers. “What did you do to me?”

The guy was evidently baffled. “Don’t you remember last night?”

I tried to recall. But I couldn’t remember anything after I’d left the bar and gotten into his car. “Not after I got into the car.”

“Shit, you really don’t remember.”

“Are you going to tell me or not!” I yelled.

“Okay, okay,” the guy said defensively. “I tried to get your address from you, but you were passed out. So I tried to get your wallet out, to figure out where you lived. But then you grabbed me by the collar and begged me to take you back to my place.”

“I what?”

“Yeah, you rambled on about some guy who stole your boyfriend away from you … how they were probably fucking at that very moment. Then you said you wanted us to do the same. So we did.”

“I wasn’t thinking clearly, you idiot! You took advantage of me,” I accused.

“Whoa … hold it right there,” he protested. “You were more than willing. In fact you were quite enthusiastic, telling me to fuck you harder.”

I was all confused now. That did sound like me when I got really drunk. And I certainly was drunk last night, if the hangover I was suffering from was anything to judge by. I ran my hands through my hair.

“Okay, fine, whatever. Just tell me where my clothes are.”

He pointed silently to the trail of hastily-discarded clothing. I grabbed my boxers and put them on. I pulled on my jeans as I hopped towards the door.

The guy called out to me, “Can I at least have your number?”

“No! I might have agreed, but you should’ve known better than to have sex with someone who was completely drunk.” I pulled my t-shirt over my head as I opened his front door.

“But I swear, you wanted it!”

I turned to glare at him.

The guy looked pathetically guilty. “Look, I’m sorry. It’s just that … I don’t get laid very often, and when an attractive young man like you actually wants me to fuck him …” He allowed his voice to trail off.

My anger cooled down a little. I guess I could identify with him on feeling unwanted. “I’m sorry I leapt to conclusions. I was irresistible, huh? That’s nice to know.”

He smiled uncertainly. “That’s okay. Do you need a lift home?”

“If it’s no problem.”

“None at all. Just tell me the address this time.”

***​

He dropped me off in front of Josh’s house. I let him talk while he drove, because I was too busy nursing a hangover. He seemed to know I didn’t want to talk about myself, and I was thankful he didn’t ask me anything. I somehow knew I wasn’t going to see him again, because he wasn’t my type anyway, but I didn’t regret meeting him. I just wish I remembered the sex we’d had. From his description, it had been amazing. But if there was one thing I’d learnt, it was not to hope for a relationship built purely on good sex.

I thanked him and watched him drive off before I went up to the front door. Josh opened it almost immediately. He must have been waiting for me.

“Where have you been all night? I was really worried. And who was that guy?”

“Why, jealous?” I asked grumpily.

“No, it’s not that” He scrutinized me closely. “Are you drunk? You are, aren’t you? You’ve got your t-shirt on inside out.”

“What do you care?” I mumbled. I had one hell of a hangover and wasn’t in the mood to listen to him. “Did you enjoy the night with Harrison?”

“Reid! I didn’t spend the night with anyone. That doesn’t seem to be the case with you. Where’d you meet that guy anyway? What’s his name?”

“Stop asking me all these questions. He did tell me his name, but I can’t remember it.” I pushed past him and went into the hallway.

Josh followed me, a stunned look on his face. “You slept with a guy whose name you don’t know?”

“It was more like two kindred souls finding each other. Isn’t that how you’d put it? It sounds perfect for you and Harrison. While you two lovebirds enjoyed a perfect night of loving, I had sex with another guy who was unwanted.”

“Damn it, Reid! I just told you Harry and I didn’t spend the night together. And you’re not unwanted.”

“You could have fooled me. Just fuck off.” I went into my bedroom and shut the door behind me. I flung myself onto the bed.

Josh banged on the closed door. “Reid, let me in.”

“Screw you, Josh. My head feels like it’s about to split open.”

Josh opened the door and came in.

“I thought I told you to fuck off.”

He sat down on the bed. “Reid, you can’t be like this. Getting drunk and sleeping with random guys … that’s not like you.”

“It was before I hooked up with you. So things have just returned to the way they were before.”

Josh stared at me. “I’m sorry I didn’t understand sooner, Reid. I thought you’d be okay with it. I mean, you were always …”

“Someone who doesn’t have feelings? Someone you could just fuck around with? Well, here’s news for you – I do have feelings.”

Josh’s eyes filled with tears. But I wasn’t going to sympathize with him.

“Why are you crying? You have Harrison. I’m the one who’s all alone.”

“Reid, don’t talk like that. You have me.”

I laughed bitterly. “I have you? Yeah, right. You belong to Harrison, not me.”

“Reid, there’s someone out there who’s meant for you too. The guy who does win your heart is one very lucky man.”

“Well if he’s so lucky, how come you don’t want to be that man?”

“It’s complicated, Reid. I’ve always been in love with Harry. You knew that. I didn’t hide it from you.”

“Well, I thought it would fade with time. Shows what an idiot I was.”

“You’re not an idiot, Reid. Just someone who fell in love with the wrong guy. I’m still here for you.”

I looked at him through bleary eyes. “You broke my heart, Josh. And the pain isn’t going away.”

To his credit, Josh looked guilt-stricken. Yeah, well, he should. He’d reduced me to waking up naked and hung over in a stranger’s bed without any recollection of the night before.

“I’m sorry, baby.” He tried to put his arms around me. I pushed him away.

“Don’t call me baby. Go away and leave me alone.” I tried to cover my face with the pillow.

“I’m not leaving you here like this. I know you’re mad at me, but please believe me when I say I care for you. Don’t ever doubt that.”

I did want to be angry at him, for abandoning me. But for some reason I couldn’t. I guess it must be the effect love has on a person.

“How do you manage to do it, Josh? Whatever you do, I can’t seem to stay mad at you for long.”

Josh gave a watery smile. “So you aren’t mad at me?”

“I guess not … I should’ve known better than to love a guy whose heart already belonged to someone else.”

“Reid, you haven’t tried to have any other relationships, except with me. If you did, you’ll realize there are so many available guys out there, who’d be much better for you than me.”

“Uh-huh.” I wasn’t convinced.

“Come on, Reid. You’ll find someone else, I promise. Now will you at least have a shower? You can’t just go back to sleep in those clothes.”

“I’m too wasted to get undressed and stand under the shower.”

“Okay, I’ll help you.” And he started to pull my t-shirt up over my head.

My eyes, which were half-closed, were suddenly wide open. “You’re going to undress me?”

Josh gave a laugh which never failed to send a tingle up my spine. “It’s not as if I haven’t done it before.”

“And then you’re going to hold me up in the shower? In the same shower where we used to exchange morning blowjobs?” I asked in disbelief.

His smile faded. “Okay, maybe that wasn’t such a good idea.”

“Aha, now you’re questioning your judgment. Should you let me drown in the shower by myself, or risk what might happen when you’re in the shower with your naked ex-boyfriend?”

“You won’t drown in the shower!” he protested. Then he relented. “Alright, but my clothes stay on.”

“You’re going to wet,” I warned.

Josh glared at me, but didn’t say anything as he proceeded to strip me naked. Then he pulled me off the bed and half-supported, half-dragged me into the shower.

I yelped when the hot water hit my naked body. But I had to admit, it was helping to clear my foggy head. Josh stood as far away as possible from the jet of water. But I wasn’t going to let him off that easily.

Once the throbbing in my head had dulled, I splashed water onto him.

“Hey!” he yelled, trying to put up a futile resistance. I dragged him under the shower with me. He tried to fend me off, but I held him tightly. He stopped struggling and stared at me. I knew he could feel my hard-on poking him in the leg.

“Reid, I can’t,” he said quietly. “Not anymore.”

I released him and sighed. “Well, it was worth a shot. Amazing what loyalty a little guy like Harrison can stir up, huh?”

Josh was looking at me with pity. “You’re going to be okay, Reid. I promised you, and I’ll make sure of it.”

I smiled sadly. He looked so gorgeous, with his curly black hair hanging down over his face and the wet t-shirt sticking to his body.

“You can go now, Josh. Go and be with Harrison. I know how happy he makes you.”

“Someone will make you happy someday, too,” he told me.

The only sound was the shower running. Then I said, “You’d better get to the café.”

Josh shook his head. “No, I told you I won’t leave you like this. I’ll call Liz and ask her to handle the café for a while. In the meantime, I’ll see what I can get you for your hangover. You’ll be fine by yourself in here?”

“Yeah, I think I’ll stay for a bit longer.”

He looked at me uncertainly, but he seemed to be reassured by my words. I leaned back against the wall and allowed the hot water to wash away the pain as I watched him leave. And my already broken heart shattered into even smaller pieces.

To be continued …​

If you guys felt sorry for Reid earlier, you'll probably be weeping by this point. You really get to see the other side to him: underneath the tough exterior lies an easily bruised heart. Anyway the new gay character I told you about is not the one who appears in this chapter. As Reid said, he probably won't see that guy again.

Stay tuned for the next chapter. Feedback is appreciated as always.

 

[mexamor]

Wow, this was so good. I don't want Reid hurt but i really want Josh and Harry to be together. thank you for such a nice stroy.

 

[timnmostud]

Great Story! Can't wait for more!

 

[Craiger]

Wow, Justin,

Easter holiday really had an effect on you. I just caught up on all the new chapters and loved them. We still have some hurdles to face with Dean, Dad and who knows... can't wait.

Craiger

 

[harry113]

Thanks Justin. I do feel sorry for Reid .... so sad.
Who is in the black car ??? Is this going to be another twist ? Is Daddy checking up on Harrison ?
'The path of true love never does run smooth !!'
Harry

 

[smile86]

what an awkward love triangle. i do feel sorry for Reid, cos if i were him i'd never think Harrison was ever going to come back for Josh. I wouldn't be surprised if Harry113 is right and Harrison's dad is taking a bit too much of an interest in is son's life. but we shall see.

 

[arogersb]

I’m not very happy with how this chapter turned out in writing. It doesn't seem the same as how I visualized it. So I apologize in advance for any shortcomings. (see note at end)

~ Chapter 16 ~​

From the Narrative of Harrison Ridgeway IV:

It was a new morning, and for the first time since coming home, I woke up feeling happy. I’d dreamt of the awesome blowjob Josh had given me, and thought about what I’d do in return. I admit, I was a little scared by the thought of a new experience, but I knew that I couldn’t go wrong with Josh.

Last night’s dinner conversation with my brother-in-law, Ronald, had got me seriously thinking about a job. I couldn’t just sit at home and do nothing. I needed some career advice; maybe look up vacancies in the newspaper. Dad could probably get me any job I wanted, but I didn’t want to go to him. I went through my stuff to put together everything I might need for job-hunting. I then had my shower and went down for breakfast.

“Harrison dear, you’re not going out again?” asked Mom incredulously, eyeing the folder I’d thrown together.

“I thought I’d get some career advice; go job-hunting.” Well, maybe I planned a little detour to a certain café on Marina Drive to see my gorgeous boyfriend (Josh was my boyfriend … I still couldn’t believe it!)

Mom stared at me. “But surely there’s no need for all that. I thought it was all decided – you’d work in your father’s office and …”

I was spared having to explain by the ring of the doorbell. Mom excused herself to open the door. I wondered what I’d tell her. I just couldn’t work with Dad. I know I’ve looked up to him my whole life, but I wasn’t sure where we stood, especially after he’d threatened to kill me if I was gay. And that was when he didn’t know that I was actually gay!

“It was for your father,” Mom explained as she came back to the table. “Now, what was I saying? Oh yes, about …”

“Um, Mom, I have to go. See you later,” I said hurriedly. I gave her a peck on the cheek and left her looking puzzled by my behavior.

I got into my car and threw the folder into the backseat. I’d already started the engine when I realized that Dad’s visitor’s car was blocking the driveway. Sighing, I turned the engine off and got out of the car to ask the guy to move his car.

I’d just stepped into the house when I bumped into the guy. He looked stricken to see me. I was a bit puzzled by his behavior.

“Sorry, your car’s blocking …”

“It’s okay, I’m just leaving,” the guy muttered hastily and rushed out through the door as if a pack of wild dogs was after him.

I stared after him. He was certainly behaving suspiciously. And I thought I recognized his car from somewhere. Surely it couldn’t be the same black Ford I’d seen …

My thoughts were interrupted by the sound of crashing glass. I heard Dad’s raised voice and Mom yelling, “Alistair, calm down. What is it?” I hurried into the room Dad used as his home office.

A shattered glass vase lay on the floor. Dad looked furious and Mom was cowering near the door. I rushed to her side.

“Mom, what’s going on?”

But Dad didn’t give her a chance to say anything. “What’s going on? What’s going on? You tell us!” he shouted as he threw some papers at my face. I managed to catch hold of one as they fluttered down to the floor. It was a photograph. I felt a cold shiver run down my spine as I recognized the two men in the photograph. It was me and Josh, kissing outside the café!

I looked up fearfully at Dad. “Dad, I … I can explain … I swear …” I stammered. My head was spinning – how had Dad gotten this photo? There were more of them on the floor, surveillance photos by the look of it. The guy in the black car – had Dad hired him to spy on me? I couldn’t think clearly, not with Dad staring furiously at me. He was scaring the hell out of me. Oh God, what was I going to do?

He shouted, “Explain? I think it’s damn clear what’s going on, you fucking faggot!”

“Dad, no, I’m not … I mean … you don’t understand … I’m sorry!” I was babbling incoherently. I couldn’t face him or Mom. I didn’t mean them to find out this way. I don’t know what I’d thought – I’d stupidly hoped that I’d somehow manage to keep them in the dark about me being gay.

“You’ll be sorry!” Dad shouted. Mom’s pleas of “Alistair, no!” fell on deaf ears.

“No son of mine is a fucking faggot!” he yelled. And then he hit me. I didn’t expect that, so I didn’t do anything to block the blow that hit me on the face. I just stood, stunned. Then I tried to say again, “Dad, I’m sorry …” I could taste the blood on my lip.

Dad didn’t want to listen to what I had to say. He seemed to have lost his mind. “I’ll kill you!” he screamed, and raised his fist again. I didn’t do anything to defend myself. I probably would have let him beat me to death, if someone else hadn’t intervened.

“Stop it, Alistair!” Mom grabbed hold of Dad’s hand.

“Let go of me, Marcia!” Dad warned.

“No! I’m not going to let you hit our son.”

“He’s not my son!” Dad shouted.

Mom stared at him for a moment, and then said softly, “I’m leaving you, Alistair.”

“What?” Dad looked stunned. I was equally shocked. Had my mother, who was usually so meek, just told Dad that she was going to leave him?

“I’m not living with a man who hits my son,” she told him, staring him straight in the eyes.

Dad stared at her, and then breathed heavily, “You wouldn’t dare leave me for this …”

Mom shouted at him. “I know about Jenna, Alistair!”

For the second time, both Dad and I were astounded. How could Mom know about the affair Dad had been having with his secretary? Phoebe and I had known, but we’d done everything to keep it a secret from her. We thought Mom wouldn’t be able to cope with it, yet here Mom was handling it with perfect calm. There was no sign of an anxiety attack that something far more trivial could trigger.

“Alistair, I’ve put up with you through all these years, all the affairs, but I will not stand by and let you hit my son.”

Dad was too shocked to say anything.

“Harrison, come,” said Mom. I couldn’t move; I was still in a daze. Mom dragged me by the arm out of the office.

Dad seemed to recover enough from his shock to yell after us. “You’ll be back! Where are you going to go, Marcia? You come back right now!”

Mom pulled me by the arm, out of the house and into my car. She thrust the car-keys at me. Dad didn’t follow us out of the house. He was sure we wouldn’t have the nerve to actually leave.

“Mom, what did you just do?” I whispered. “You have to go back.”

“Harrison, for God’s sake, drive. Just get us away from this house.”

I didn’t know what to do. Almost mechanically, I started the car and drove. In the rearview mirror I could see Dad watching us leave with a look of disbelief on his face.

I only drove a block from our house. Mom didn’t say a word except to breathe heavily, until I pulled over by the sidewalk.

I turned off the engine and asked her, “Mom, what are we doing? We … you can’t just leave Dad.”

Mom folded her arms. “I’m not going back there, Harrison. I’m not going back there without you, and Alistair has made it clear he doesn’t want you there.”

“No, you have to go back. He’s your husband.”

“And your father! He didn’t behave like one when he hit you.”

“Mom, it’s my fault. I knew how Dad felt about gay people but I …”

“Harrison, you’ve got to stop this. You’re always blaming yourself for everything. Why?”

I couldn’t look her in the eye.

Mom continued. “No one is to blame for this except your father. He’s the one who refuses to accept you.”

I stared at her. “Mom, I’m gay. Your son is gay. Aren’t you at least going to ask me about it?”

Mom gazed into the distance. “More than a year ago, I got a call from a friend. She told me that her son had come out to her. It wasn’t as if she hadn’t suspected it. There had been clues. But it was a shock nevertheless. He was their only child. She didn’t know what to do at first, but she accepted it in the end. She and her husband both wanted their boy to be happy.”

I was confused. What did this have to do with anything?

She looked at me sadly. “When she told me, I thought, what if it were my son? And I knew the answer straight away, Harrison. I could never abandon you, no matter what. I’ve loved you since the day you first put into my arms as a baby.”

I felt tears in my eyes.

“I prayed that this day wouldn’t come, Harrison. As much as I hated the façade I had to put on, this was the only life I’ve known for the past thirty years. I was twenty when I married Alistair. I stayed with him only because of you and Phoebe.”

She paused, and then added, “The friend I mentioned earlier … it was Carol – Joshua’s mother.”

I was stunned.

“It was Joshua in those pictures, wasn’t it? The man you were … kissing.”

I nodded.

“Harrison, why didn’t you tell me?”

“Mom, I didn’t know it myself until recently.”

“What about Melissa?”

“I thought I loved her at the time. But after what she did, how she betrayed me, I could never look at another girl in the same way again.”

Mom sighed. “I never did like her anyway. Joshua, on the other hand, I’ve always found to be a very nice boy.”

“Then … you’re okay with this … me being gay?”

“Harrison, it’s not that simple. To think of a boy sleeping with another boy …”

“It disgusts you?” I asked quietly.

“No … it’s just that it’s all new to me. It doesn’t matter if you like boys instead of girls, Harrison. Being different is not wrong. It would be wrong if I rejected you because of it.. Just give me some time, please.”

“Thanks, Mom.” I hugged her. She kissed my forehead.

“Okay, now I’ll take you back to the house.”

“Harrison, I thought I told you …”

“That you’re not going back there. But where are you going to go then, Mom? We just left without bringing anything with us. At least let me drop you at Phoebe’s apartment.”

“Alright. But you are coming with me.”

“Mom, I can’t. Dad will get mad at Phoebe if she lets me stay at her place.”

“Then I’m not going there either.”

“Mom!” But further arguments were stalled by the ringing of my cell phone. I saw the caller ID: Phoebe.

“Hello?”

My sister sounded frantic. “Harrison, where are you? I just went to the house to drop off Alan and Dad was in a rage, throwing things about. He said you and Mom left and that you’re …”

“Gay?” I sighed. “I’m afraid it’s true.”

There was silence. Then she said, “Oh, Harrison, you could have warned me. You poor thing, to have had to keep it a secret all this while.”

“I wasn’t sure myself until recently, Pheebs. I suspected … but I thought it would go away.”

She was quiet for a while. Then she asked, “The guy in those photos … is he your boyfriend?”

I wasn’t sure. Were we officially boyfriends? I thought of our kiss again, and then replied, “Yes.”

“Do I know him?”

“You should. Remember Josh? He used to be my best friend in high school. I know you were in medical school at the time, but you must have seen him.”

“I can’t say that I do. But you love him, huh?”

I didn’t need to think hard about the answer to that question. “Yes.”

“Harrison, it doesn’t matter to me if you’re gay. You know Ronald’s sister? She’s a lesbian. But that isn’t something that bugs me. And you’re still my little brother. I’ll always love you. I’m just glad that you found someone to love.”

I couldn’t stop my tears from flowing. “I love Mom and you too, sis. I just wish Dad would see it the same way.”

“I’ll try to talk to him and …”

“No, don’t. I don’t want him to hit you as well. He’s really angry now.”

“Harrison, wait. What are you saying? Dad hit you?”

“It’s not … it’s not as bad as it sounds, Pheebs.”

I could hear her voice trembling with fury. “That …” She managed to stop herself. “That’s why Mom left as well, isn’t it? Look, both of you are coming to my house now.”

“No, Pheebs, I can’t do that. Dad will never forgive …”

“Screw him, Harrison! What are you both going to do? For heaven’s sake, you don’t even have a job to support yourself. And what about Mom?”

“No, Mom is going to stay with you for …”

Mom, who’d been silent all this while, now interrupted. “There’s no way I’m going back to that house without Harrison. I won’t leave you alone.”

I turned to her. “Mom, don’t make this more difficult than it already is. I’ll probably find a motel somewhere to stay, and you can’t stay there as well.”

“Why ever not?”

“Mom, you’re used to living in that mansion, with Sadie to help you. How are you going to cope in a motel?”

“Harrison, I wasn’t brought up in that mansion; you were. I think I’d be more capable of roughing it out than you.”

I gave up. I knew there was no changing Mom’s mind when it was made up.

“Harrison?” I heard Phoebe’s voice on the phone.

“Sorry, Pheebs. I forgot you were still on the line.”

“I heard everything Mom said, and she’s right. You can’t be alone at a time like this.”

I started to protest, but Phoebe carried on. “Look, I’ll put some money into your account. You can use it to get a proper room, okay?”

“Pheebs, you don’t have to do …”

“It’s the least I can do, Harrison. It’s my Mom and little brother we’re talking about here. I don’t know why you’re so reluctant to come to my house, but this is only temporary, okay?”

“Okay, I’ll call you once we’re settled in.”

“Wait, does Mom have her pills?”

I turned back to Mom, but before I could repeat the question Mom replied, loudly so that Phoebe could hear, “I have some in my handbag; it should be enough for a week.”

“Okay, I heard that. Harrison … take good care of her, okay? She isn’t … you know?”

“No, I’m a little surprised. I promise I’ll take good care of Mom.”

“And take care of yourself. You’re not hurt, are you? I can’t believe that …” She fumbled for words. “That Man did that to you. I’ll go and …”

“No, Pheebs, don’t. Just leave him to cool off.”

“Oh Harrison.” There was a trace of disappointment in her voice. “You’ll call me if you need anything?”

“Yeah, sure.”

“Don’t just say that.”

“No, I promise I will. Okay then, goodbye.”

“Bye.” She put down the phone. I turned back to Mom.

“Okay Mom, we’re on our own now. So where do you fancy staying?”

“That can wait, Harrison. Isn’t there someone you want to see first?”

“Huh? Who?”

Mom raised her eyebrows. “Your boyfriend, silly.”

Oh, right, Josh. Somehow I’d forgotten all about him. But now that Mom mentioned him, I did desperately want to see him. After all the tumultuous events, he’d be a sight for sore eyes. But I wasn’t sure Mom was ready to meet him yet.

“Mom … are you sure? We can wait.”

She patted my hand. “No, you shouldn’t have to, Harrison. Now that everything’s out in the open, what are you still waiting for?”

She was right. Despite the pain I felt from Dad’s rejection, there was still a little brightness in my life. Some of it was from my Mom and sister, for how easily they’d accepted me. But mostly it was the thought of my loving boyfriend.

I turned the engine back on and drove towards Josh’s house.

To be continued …​

As I said earlier, I’m sorry about any shortcomings in the writing quality of this chapter. It’s quite an important chapter in terms of Harrison’s (admittedly forced) coming out. I hope the narrative is clear as to how Harrison’s mom, dad and sister react to it. Their dialogue may seem a bit unrealistic, but I was trying to concentrate on the essence of it – Marcia and Phoebe accept Harrison because they both love him, but his Dad is a homophobe who simply cannot stand the idea of his son being gay.

Finally, feedback is appreciated as always.

 

[mexamor]

I'm not sorry, this is a beautiful story and I love the emotion. thank you so much for the time and effort you put into this. It is wonderful.

 

[harry113]

Justin, Thank you.
This is a wonderful chapter, there is nothing to apologise for. In the situation that you are describing everything happens "on the hoof" so to speak ! And that is how it all comes across, the urgency & immediacy of the situation!
This is a great piece of writing, Thank you again
Next chapter please !!!!
Hugs
Harry

 

[arogersb]

~ Chapter 17 ~​

From the Narrative of Joshua Spencer:

The doorbell rang just as I put down the phone after talking to Liz at the café.

“Who could that be?” I wondered aloud. I walked over to the front door and pulled it open. Harry was standing on the steps, looking as gorgeous as ever although I could only see the top of his bowed head. The sunlight was glinting on the blond streaks in his brown hair and it was all I could do to stop myself from running my fingers through it.

“Hi, didn’t expect you here so early. So what brings you here? A repeat of yesterday’s session?” I joked.

“Umm …” He didn’t look up. I suddenly felt worried.

“Harry, is something wrong?”

He reluctantly looked at me. “My Dad knows. He knows that I’m gay.”

It was then that I noticed the dried blood on his lower lip. I felt rage course through me.

“Did he do that?” I asked angrily.

“Huh? What? Oh, this.” He touched his lip gingerly. “He didn’t take the news very well.”

Didn’t take the news very well? That was a mild way of putting it.

“He hurt you! That bastard actually hit you.”

“No, no. It’s not his fault. I…”

I couldn’t believe he was still defending his father at this point.

“Harry, how did he find out?”

“I don’t know …” he sniffed. “He had these photos … of us kissing outside the café.”

“Oh shit.” I realized I was the cause of all this. “I made you do that. You didn’t want to but I convinced you there wasn’t any harm and now … I’m sorry.”

“No, I’m kind of glad it’s out in the open now. I feel lighter now … you know, like I don’t need to hide. And at least Mom didn’t take it badly.”

“Your Mom? How is she?”

“Well ... she left Dad after he hit me.”

“Wait … your Mom left him?” I was stunned by this abrupt change in Marcia, whom I’d always found lovable but a bit too meek.

“Yeah … I was amazed too. She’s in the car.”

“Then why didn’t you bring her in?”

“No, it’s okay. We’re going to find a nice motel to stay in and then …”

“Hold on, a motel?”

“Yeah, I guess we’re going to have to rough it out … I daren’t go to my sister’s place. I don’t want Dad to be mad at her. And Mom insists on staying with me.” He ran his hands through his hair, looking a bit bewildered by the suddenness of everything. “I’m guessing it won’t be easy. I mean, we just left – didn’t even bring any stuff with us.”

I had an idea. “Harry, you don’t have to go to a motel. You can stay here.”

He stared at me. “What? No, I couldn’t possibly impose on you. And I told you, Mom won’t leave me so I …”

I interrupted. “Your Mom can stay here too. There’s my parents’ old bedroom.”

“It’s really nice of you, Josh, but we can’t …”

“Oh come on, are you my boyfriend or not?” I asked him.

He smiled uncertainly. “I’m really your boyfriend? ‘Cause I wasn’t sure about …”

I rolled my eyes – he could be so naïve at times. “Of course you’re my boyfriend, you idiot.”

“Oh,” was all he said.

“Do you need further convincing?” I leaned down to give him a kiss.

His smile widened into a full grin. “Can we really stay? It’s only for a few days, I promise, till we get everything sorted out.” He looked like he was warming to the idea.

“Come on, we’ll tell your Mom.” I started to go down the steps, when I felt a hand slip into mine. Harry smiled at me and whispered, “Thanks, Josh.”

“This is small compared to what I'd be willing to do for you, Harry."

Harry’s Mom had been watching us through the window. As we approached, she lowered the window.

“Hi, Mrs. Ridgeway,” I told her.

She smiled at me. I noticed her eyes flicked over our entwined hands, but her gaze didn’t linger there.

“Joshua, I thought I told you to call me Aunt Marcia. Especially now …” I couldn't help blushing.

“Oh yeah, sure, Mrs … I mean Aunt Marcia. I was just telling Harry here, you can both stay here for the time being.”

She looked doubtful. “Joshua, that’s very kind of you but I don’t that would be a good plan. I mean, Harrison’s father will find out and then …”

“I’m not afraid of him, Aunt Marcia.”

She smiled at me sadly. “Alistair is a congressman, Joshua. He has connections. And I know well enough how he can make life unpleasant for those who defy him. It’s just that I haven’t been poised at the receiving end before.”

“Aunt Marcia, you’ll be okay here for a few days. After that, if you want to find somewhere else, you can go ahead. But Harry … I think it’s best for him to be here with me.”

Marcia laughed. “You sound so protective of him. Are you sure this has been only a recent development?” Harry blushed.

Then she looked at me seriously. “Joshua, it’s not only a matter of Harrison’s father. I know your parents didn’t leave you well off when they died. And for you to have two more mouths to feed … you can’t possibly earn much from that hardware store.”

I shook my head. “I don’t run the hardware store anymore. I’ve got a café now. Well, not me alone. Reid – that’s … um…” My voice trailed off. How was I going to describe Reid to Marcia? I noticed Harry was watching me closely.

“Reid’s … a friend. He lives with me and he co-owns the café. But there’s still more than enough room for both of you. It’ll mean a lot to me if you stay here.”

Marcia looked at Harry's glowing face and then back at me.

She said softly, “I’ve never seen Harrison this happy before.” She smiled slightly. “Alright, if it means so much to you, we’ll stay … just for a couple of days. And we’ll pay you back once we find something to do.”

“There’s no need for all that …” I started to protest.

Marcia looked at me firmly. “No, I insist.”

I realized she wasn’t going to agree unless I let her have her way. “Okay. Do you have any luggage?”

Marcia sighed. “I’m afraid not. I suppose I got carried away with the whole storming out of the house part. It wouldn’t have been half as dramatic to stop in the driveway and return for your clothes.” Her eyes twinkled, but then she looked stern. “But I wasn’t going to let my husband hit Harrison.”

“No, of course not.” I wondered if she knew. From the way Harry was looking down at the floor, I guessed he hadn’t told her.

“Don’t worry about clothes. There are some of my mother’s clothes … they might fit you. I should think you’re around the same size. But for Harry … well, my clothes will be a bit big on him, but that can’t be helped. We’ll talk about that later. First let’s get you settled in.”

Harry tapped my shoulder as I started to lead the way back to the house. “Aren’t you going to ask Reid about this whole arrangement first?”

I was about to say, “What for?” when I realized he was right. This was my house, but Reid had stayed with me for almost a year now. It was sweet of Harry to remember to ask Reid's permission. I loved him even more for it.

“I’ll ask him later,” I whispered. “He’ll be okay with it. Let me just show your Mom to her room first, okay?”

Harry nodded, but he didn’t look very comfortable.

“Okay, if it makes you feel better, I’ll ask him first, okay? You show your Mom to her room; you know which one it is, right? My parent’s old bedroom?”

“Yeah, I know.” He turned towards his mother. I went ahead of them and into Reid’s bedroom. He was evidently still suffering from his hangover.

“Who was that?” he asked immediately.

“It’s Harry. He’s … um … coming to stay here for a while … if that’s okay with you.”

Reid raised his eyebrows. “Wow … that was quick. To think it was only yesterday I left you two alone.”

“Reid, be serious. His father found out that he’s gay and freaked out. So he has nowhere else to go. His Mom’s here as well. And he was the one who told me to ask your permission first.”

Reid sighed heavily. “You forgot, didn’t you? Even the guy I thought was my sworn enemy thought of asking me when you didn’t.”

I felt very guilty when he said that. I knew he was right. I’d told him I was still there for him, but somehow everything else seemed to fade away when I saw Harry.

“Don’t mind me … your guests are waiting.” Reid managed to sound sarcastic but sad at the same time.

“Reid! I can’t deal with this right now.”

“No, really, go and look after them.”

I looked at him hesitantly. “You’re … you’re sure?”

“I know what he must be feeling right now, Josh. You’d better go to him. I’ll be fine … I always am …”

I looked at him, but he’d closed his eyes again. I let out a sigh and went in search of Harry and his Mom.

***​

“Oh good, you’ve found the room. Well, Mom’s clothes are in the wardrobe over there.” I felt a lump in my throat. “I didn’t touch them after the accident.”

Marcia patted my hand. “It’s okay, Joshua. I don’t really need …”

“No, I want you to have it. They’d be wasted otherwise.”

She looked at me doubtfully. “Okay. But first I need to use the bathroom.” I nodded and pointed out the door.

After she’d closed the door behind her, Harry turned to me.

“Where’s Reid?”

“Um … he’s … well, he’s having a hangover. He didn’t come home last night.”

Harry looked troubled. “That’s not something he usually does, is it? It’s because of me and you.”

I wasn’t sure how I should respond to that. “No … it … I just don’t know what to say to him. He’s really depressed.”

“Do you want me to talk to him?”

“That’s nice of you, Harry, but I don’t think you can help.”

“I might … Reid and I share the same problem – we’re both in love with the same guy. I feel really guilty about stealing you away from him.”

“You didn’t steal me away. But yeah, I feel guilty, too.” I suppose there was no harm in him trying to talk to Reid. “Okay, go ahead. But I’m not sure he’ll be awake.”

“I’ll go and check on him. You stay here with Mom, okay?”

I nodded.


From the Narrative of Harrison Ridgeway IV:

“Reid?” I called out as I entered his room. He was lying on the bed, apparently asleep. I sat down on the bed next to him anyway.

“Reid, are you awake?”

His eyes flew open – they were pale blue like the morning sky.

“Oh, it’s you.” He didn’t sound pleased to see me. What did I expect – for him to welcome me with open arms? Maybe I wasn’t the right person to talk to him.

“So you’re moving in, huh?”

“No! I mean … well, yeah. But I didn’t expect it to happen this way.”

“Not everything happens the way we expect it to,” Reid observed. He sounded as if he were emotionally detached.

I agreed. “That’s true, I guess.”

He was silent.

I had to try again. “Look, Reid, I wanted to talk to you about Josh …”

He interrupted me. “Do you know how I first met him?”

I shook my head.

“It was in the gay bar where I usually spent my evenings. I noticed this guy sit down opposite me at the bar. I wouldn’t have said he was my type. I mean, he was attractive and all that, but he looked like really vulnerable, like a lost lamb. He saw me looking at him and smiled cautiously. I smiled back.”

“And then he came over and introduced himself. I waited for him to give the usual pickup lines, but he didn’t. After the introduction, he just kept quiet. I grew tired of waiting and asked him whether he wasn’t going to buy me a drink.”

“He looked at me in a funny way and asked, is that how it’s usually done?”

“I laughed at him and he turned red. Then he said, I wouldn’t have offered anyway because I’d have thought you’ve already drunk enough.”

“It was cute, you know, the way he was so self-righteous. I asked him if he’d ever been to a gay bar before. He shook his head. I told him that it showed. I asked him if he wanted to go elsewhere. He wasn’t sure at first, but somehow I got him to agree to come to my apartment. We started off kissing, and then we got into the heavier stuff. That was when he stopped me and told me it was his first time. I was a bit astounded that a good-looking guy like him could reach the age of 20 without having done it before.”

“He said he’d been waiting for his dream guy, but he’d given up hope. He didn’t tell me the details then, but he meant you. I asked him whether I’d make up for the dream guy, and he said maybe.”

“So I promised I’d be gentle, and we did it. He was so quiet, you know, no resistance or fear at all. He didn’t even let out a single cry of pain. And when it was over, he kissed me and thanked me, ever so sweetly, for his first time. He actually thanked me! And I knew then that I’d lost my heart to him.”

Reid grew quiet again.

I cleared my throat. “I’m sorry, Reid.”

“There’s nothing you have to be sorry about, Harrison. At least I found out sooner rather than later … I’m doomed to spend the rest of my life alone.”

And here I thought I was pessimistic! I always saw the glass half-empty, but Reid seemed to find it completely empty.

“Reid … I’ll be frank with you, okay? I find you one hell of a hot guy. I mean I’ve seen you … a bit more fully.” I managed not to embarrass myself further by blurting out that Reid’s killer abs were drool-inducing.

I continued. “The thing is … I know you’re a sensitive guy under the whole tough-guy act. There’s no reason why someone shouldn’t love that part of you.”

He didn’t reply. I thought he might be asleep, but his eyes were still open.

“It’s your first relationship, Reid. If it doesn’t work out, you can move on.”

“It’s not as easy as you make it seem. Have you tried it yourself? Have you tried not to be in love with Josh?”

“No,” I admitted. “But you just told me earlier, Josh wasn’t your type. You can find other guys who are more your type. I’m sure you won’t have any problem finding them.”

“It wouldn’t be the same as with Josh.”

“I know it won’t. It’s hard to let go of Josh. But you need to, for your own good. If not, you’re just going to destroy yourself like this. And Josh doesn’t want that to happen to you.”

Reid laughed bitterly. “I doubt that he even cares.”

“That isn’t fair, Reid. You know how he’s hung up over me. If you want to blame anyone, it should be me. Every time I show up, it’s as if he forgets everything else. Tell me this, Reid: If he didn’t care about you, do you think he’d have spent a year in a relationship with you? Do you think he’d start a café with you? Josh might not be in love with you, as you hoped, but he does care about you, Reid.”

He looked like he was contemplating what I’d said. Then he said, in a voice devoid of emotion, “You’d better go and see to your Mom.”

“Did you hear what I said?”

He looked like he didn’t want to reply, but finally he nodded. “I’ll think about it, okay?”

I guess that was a start. “Okay.”

He turned over and snuggled up with his pillow. I stared at his back - tanned and rippling with muscles. If I wasn’t in love with Josh, I would easily fall in love with Reid. I don't mean just for his body. From what he'd told me about his first encounter with Josh ... I knew he was just as vulnerable as I'd been. He'd fallen in love with Josh from the very start. Who could blame him? But it wasn't impossible for him to move on. If he just knew that, he could overcome this. At least he’d said he’ll think about what I’d said. It was a step towards healing his broken heart.

To be continued …​

Thanks for saying the previous chapter wasn't as bad as I'd thought. I like this chapter, mainly because of the exchange between Harrison and Reid. Your feedback on this is appreciated. And just to let you all know, I 've finally figured out how this story is going to end, so I have to work towards that now.

 

[indexer]

this story was nicely done...you don't have to worry about the previuos chapter though, it was worth it. I loved what i've read.

 

[harry113]

Another great chapter. Thank you Justin.
Eager for the next!!!
Hugs
Harry

 

[Craiger]

What an exceptional story, Justin. I like the way things are going. As the others have said, there is no need for apologies. Each chapter has been well though out and written extremely well. I really look forward to the continuance of "Doing Hard Time."

Craiger

 

[willybob]

Written very well and i always look forward to the next installment. Hopefully Reid finds someone to make his heartache go away.

 

[mexamor]

Wow! another absolutely wonderful chapter to a wonderful story that is so full of character and emotion and life. thank you again for your efforts and time. I love this story.

 

[arogersb]

First of all, I have to thank all of you who posted in this thread. I just realized there are over 100 postings. I never realized this story was quite so popular. Anyway, this chapter is a bit dark because you're about to find out Harrison's deepest secret. It was a tough job writing it, so I hope it doesn't disappoint.

~ Chapter 18 ~​

From the Narrative of Harrison Ridgeway IV:

I went into Josh’s parents’ bedroom. Mom was sitting on the bed.

“Where’s Josh?” I asked.

“Oh, he went to make coffee.”

I laughed. That seemed to be what Josh did every time I saw him.

“He’s quite enthusiastic about coffee-making now that he runs a café. I remember a time when I’d have to pour his concoctions down the toilet.”

Mom smiled. “Did you know then?”

I shook my head. “I wasn’t sure … or maybe I was too scared to admit it. But he knew.”

“Is that why you fought all those years ago?” Mom asked gently.

I nodded and hung my head. When I remembered how badly I’d treated Josh, I wondered how it was possible for him to still love me.

“Harrison … you were scared because of your father? Because you knew how he felt about homosexuals?”

“Yes,” I whispered.

“But to hide it, all this while …”

“No, Mom, I wanted Dad to be proud of me. It didn’t matter what I wanted.”

Mom stared at me, puzzled. “Harrison, it’s your life. Of course your feelings mattered. I don’t understand why you’re always this way about your father. Alistair didn’t deserve a wonderful son like you. Anyone else would have hit him back.”

“Harry wouldn’t do that.” I looked up suddenly when I heard Josh’s voice. He was leaning against the doorway and looking at me pityingly. There was something in his tone that worried me. I had the sickening feeling he was about to tell her everything he knew. I shook my head warningly at him.

Mom looked at me, then at Josh and back to me. “What’s going on?” she asked, confused.

“Mom, it’s nothing …”

Josh cut in. “Harry, you need to tell her the truth. You can’t just keep it to yourself. What he did to you …”

“He’s my father!” I yelled at him. “He has every right to do whatever he wants to me.”

Mom had turned pale. “What are you talking about, Harrison?”

I didn’t reply. I cursed myself for my stupid outburst.

“I’ll tell her if you don’t want to, Harry.”

“Josh, no …” I made the only threat I could think of. “I swear I’ll never talk to you again.”

Josh looked pained. I knew I’d made the worst possible threat to him, but I couldn’t let him tell Mom. But it was already too late.

“Harrison, what did your father do to you?!” Mom shook my shoulder hysterically. “What are you hiding from me?” I racked my brains for a reasonable answer but my mind was blank. The shame and terror had taken control of my thoughts.

She turned to Josh. “Joshua, you’ll tell me.”

He stared at her for a moment, and then spoke. “I’m sorry, Harry, but she has to know. I don’t want you to be mad at me but this is the only way. You have to realize what he did to you was wrong.”

Despairingly I put my head in my hands. I heard the dreaded words.

“Aunt Marcia, I don’t think this is the first time Harry’s father has hit him.”

Mom stared at me in shock. She choked, “That’s not … that’s not possible … is it?”

I couldn’t reply. Damn Josh! How could he do this to me?

“Harrison, tell me!” She shook me again, but I didn’t say a word.

“I wasn’t sure at first, Aunt Marcia. Harry was always reluctant to change in front of people, even if it was only me. But there were times … when we went for our midnight swims in the ocean … I guess he thought it was too dark for me to see, but I could.”

“Could see what?” Mom’s voice was getting higher pitched.

“The bruises on his back.”

Mom was horrified. “Harrison, your father didn’t …”

I couldn’t face her. “He punished me for making mistakes. That’s all, Mom.”

“How …” Mom’s voice broke. “How many times has this happened? And I didn’t know?”

I couldn’t take this any more. I wrenched myself from Mom’s grip and ran from the room. As I passed Josh he reached out to grab me but I pushed him aside.

“Harry, wait!” I heard Josh call out as he chased me. I didn’t get very far; he soon had me pinned against the wall in the hallway.

“Harry, please, we need to talk about this.” I slid down the wall until I was hunched on the floor. I could feel the tears flowing down my cheeks. Josh kneeled down in front of me.

“You’re not going to try and run?” he asked.

“Why are you doing this to me? Why couldn’t you just leave it alone?” I pummeled him repeatedly on his chest. He didn’t try to stop me but wrapped his arms around me instead. I struggled briefly against his embrace, but he held me tight.

“Harry, what your father did to you was inexcusable. You had to realize that. You had to face up to it if you want to move on with your life.”

“You don’t even know …”

“I guessed, Harry. I suspected it a long time ago, but every time I brought up your father, you would go on the defensive.”

“He’s my father.” I said hoarsely. There was a crash from inside the bedroom. My heart stopped for a second.

“Oh no! Mom!” I got up and rushed back into the bedroom, with Josh following closely behind.

I was relieved that Mom had only knocked over her handbag, spilling its contents on the floor. Out of breath, she gasped, “Harrison, my pills.”

I quickly spotted them lying on the floor and gave them to her. I was about to ask Josh for some water, when he handed her the coffee cup. Mom swallowed the pills with a swig of coffee while I rounded on a guilty-stricken Josh.

“You son of a bitch! Didn’t you know what would happen to Mom when …”

Mom wheezed. “Don’t … call your … boyfriend … names, Harrison.” I was tempted to roll my eyes, but the seriousness of the situation stopped me. Mom tried to get her breathing under control.

“How long has this been going on?”

“No, Mom, it doesn’t matter.”

“Of course it matters! Harrison, why didn’t you tell me?”

I said quietly, “Dad told me I’d be to blame if you had another anxiety attack.”

“He blackmailed you into not telling me?”

“Mom, it wasn’t like that.”

“When did it start?”

“Mom …”

“Tell me, Harrison!”

“After Phoebe went to medical school.” That was the year I started high school – when I first met Josh. I was silent.

“What happened then?” It was Josh who prompted me. I felt hatred well up inside me. Why did he have to go and dredge up all this now?

I looked down as I spoke. “Phoebe used to protect me. She’d take the blame for my mistakes. Dad wouldn’t get mad at her, because she was his golden child. But when she went to medical school…”

“There wasn’t anyone to protect you,” said Mom softly. She cried, “I’ve failed you as a mother, Harrison. “

“Mom, it wasn’t your fault. It was mine. I was the one who made mistakes.”

“He had no right to hit you!”

“Dad only wanted the best for me.”

“Harry, you … lunatic!”

I glared at Josh. “There’s no other word for it,” he said apologetically. “But you don’t seem to see what he did was wrong.”

“No! Stop saying these horrible things about my father!” I shouted at him.

Mom said suddenly, “He’s not the one you should get angry at. Josh is right about Alistair – he is a worse man than I thought.”

“What?” I stared at her. I couldn’t believe Mom would say such things.

“He was always good at getting his way; at manipulating people … otherwise he wouldn’t have made a good politician. But I never realized he would take advantage of his own son.”

“He didn’t!”

“Harrison, don’t be dense. Alistair knew how desperately you wanted to please him. He didn’t want the best for you; he wanted the best for himself. I never knew until now the lengths to which he’d go to achieve his selfish ends.”

I was confused. If it had been Josh saying nasty things about my father I probably would have hit him. But it was Mom. I loved my mother, more than my father. But she was wrong about Dad … wasn’t she?

I thought about the time when I’d gotten into a fight with Chris during my junior year at high school. He’d insulted my mother, so I punched him and it turned into an all-out brawl. The principal called my father to her office. He’d been apologetic, smiling and assuring her it wouldn’t happen again.

When we got home, he told me how I’d disgraced by making him step into the principal’s office, before taking out his belt. I didn’t do anything, not even to justify why I’d gotten into the fight in the first place. I obeyed his order to take off my shirt and let him flog my back. I’d cried about it later, but not in front of him. Dad always said I was too much of a sissy for going running to my mother.

That was the first time, but it wasn’t the last. Every time I got poor grades, or I screwed up at an interschool game, I knew the routine. Afterwards I’d nurse my wounds and cry in private, promising myself that I would make him proud someday. But that day never seemed to come – only more punishments. He didn’t leave any marks on my exposed skin, because that would have been obvious to Mom and everyone else. He still had his reputation to maintain. It was amazing how he made me feel guilty about it, as if I had reduced him to having to use his belt on his son.

When high school was over, I made sure to choose a university far from home. I tried to avoid coming home during the holidays, returning only when it was absolutely necessary. I never told anyone, not even Phoebe. She asked me if Dad was treating me properly, and I assured her that he was. I truly believed that. Dad only wanted the best for me. Mom, Phoebe, even Josh – none of them seemed to believe that. Was I the only fool who did?

I realized that both Mom and Josh were watching me closely. I managed to say, “I wanted him to like me. I wanted it so bad, Mom. More than anything else. But he never …” I couldn’t go on; I was crying too hard. Josh put his shoulder around me.

“Harrison, I’ll kill that man myself. If I’d known then, I would have taken you and left him a long time ago.” Mom held my hand. “I need you to promise me something – promise that you won’t ever leave me.”

“What?” I blinked back my tears. “Why would I want to leave you?”

“Just promise me, Harrison.”

“Of course I won’t leave you,” I promised.

Josh said, “Aunt Marcia, can I have Harry alone for a while please?”

Mom hesitated before getting up to leave us alone. Josh sat down beside me on the bed.

“Look, Harry, I know you hate me for bringing this up.”

“Hate isn’t strong enough to describe what I feel.”

Josh looked pained. “You seemed so eager to talk to Reid and make him feel better and I just thought you would feel lighter if you got this off your chest.”

“It didn’t matter to you what it could do to Mom?”

“I forgot about her condition, I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry too. I’m sorry I ever accepted your offer to stay here. I’ll always hate you for this. Go away.”

“Please, Harry, don’t say that. I love you.” I could hear the sadness in his voice. He tried to kiss me but I shrugged him off.

“Harry, listen to me. I love you so much that I can feel the pain you’re suffering inside. You put on a brave face for your Mom, your sister, me, and keep everything else bottled up inside of you. I know how much you want your Dad’s acceptance, but you have to face it, Harry. He doesn’t love you. He couldn’t after what he’s done to you.”

Deep down, I knew he was right. That’s why I hated him all the more. I refused to look at him.

“Please don’t let’s do this again, Harry. Don’t push me aside.”

“Do you still want me now that you know the truth? You said earlier that I was a lunatic.”

“I didn’t mean that in the way you seem to think, Harry. It’s okay to love your father but you can’t support him for what he did … even your Mom knows that.”

“I tried, really hard, to hate him, but I couldn’t.”

“He made use of that, Harry. I know the physical wounds he caused healed quickly, but the scars on your soul are still there. I can make it better, Harry, if you’ll only let me. Open up to me, Harry, please.”

“Why should I trust you, Josh? You betrayed me.”

“I didn’t! If you call bringing the truth out into the open a betrayal, then yes. But I did it for you, Harry … for us.”

“You know I love you, Josh. But that doesn’t mean you can do shit like this and expect me to forgive you.”

“He doesn’t need your forgiveness.” I was stunned for a moment to hear Mom’s voice. I realized she must have heard everything through the open door.

Mom continued, “He helped you admit something you’ve kept secret all these years, Harrison. He could have let it lie. But I think it shows how much he cares for you that he’s willing to risk everything just so that you can heal. If you break up with him now, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life. Think about it, Harrison. I’ll leave both of you alone now.”

She left, shutting the door behind her this time. I looked at Josh and realized for the first time that he was crying too. I gently reached out and touched his tear-streaked face.

“I’m sorry,” I whispered.

He gave me a watery smile and said, “Don’t apologize. I don’t blame you for getting mad at me. I should have done it more … subtly?”

“Don’t pronounce the T,” I told him. He stared blankly. “The T in subtle, you don’t pronounce it,” I explained.

He raised his eyebrows. “You’re lecturing me about grammar now?”

“I’m …”

“Stop saying you’re sorry. If you want, you can say …”

“I love you.”

“That’s better.” He kissed me. “I hope you’re feeling better too.”

I thought about it. Dad’s rejection had hurt, but now I realized I didn’t really care what he thought. It just wasn’t possible to make him happy.

“I guess you were right,” I admitted.

Josh smiled. “Okay, come on then. Your Mom is going to be worried about us.” He got up from the bed but I caught his hand.

“And Josh? Next time you want to try something like this … give me some warning. Or I will make good on my promise never talk to you again.”

He grinned. “You couldn’t survive without talking to me, baby.”

“You smug bastard!”

“Hush, your Mom’s going to hear you. She already told you not to call your boyfriend names.”

“So you’re confirming you’re still my boyfriend?”

“If you weren’t, you’ll be the first to know. Come on.” He slipped his hand into mine and led me out of the room.

To be continued …​

If you followed the clues in the previous chapters you probably realized this was coming. (Did you catch the part where Josh looks at Harrison's body on the beach and notes how it is "unblemished"? Sorry, couldn't help being a little smug there myself ) The unnatural fear Harrison has of his father is rooted in the beatings he suffered for failing to meet his Dad's standards. I might as well tell you now that Evil Dad is going to be the main antagonist of this story.

The next chapter may take a while. I'm facing some technical problems, but I promise you it will make up for the shocking lack of sex. Until then, I'd love to hear your comments.

 

[bcwang]

I can't believe it's already chapter 18.....what a nice read.
Everything is just fine in the story.

 

[harry113]

Justin, Wow!!
Thank you, a fantastic chapter in a fantastic story
Great stuff
Hugs
Harry

 

[hungbuzz]

iv just read everything and cant wait for more

buzz

 

[arogersb]

~ Chapter 19 ~​

From the Narrative of Joshua Spencer:

Mrs. Ridgeway – I must remember to call her Aunt Marcia – was waiting in the living room when Harry and I came out.

“I hope you two have sorted everything out,” she said.

I smiled at Harry. “I think we have.” He squeezed my hand.

“I’m glad to hear that.” Although Marcia was smiling, I noticed her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. I wondered what was worrying her. She had seemed comfortable with the idea that her son was gay, but maybe she was having second thoughts? I hoped not.

Marcia told Harry, “You’d better call your sister and tell her that we’re here. She’ll be anxious otherwise.”

Harry dug his hands into his pockets looking for his phone before realizing he didn’t have it on him. “I must have left it in the car. Hold on, I’ll go and get it.”

He went out through the front door, leaving me alone with Marcia in the living room.

She was quiet for a while, and then she said, “Joshua?”

“Yes, Aunt Marcia?”

She fixed her bright blue eyes on me. “Take good care of my son.”

“Of course I will,” I assured her.

She looked away from me. “I can’t bear to part with him. Harrison was the most amazing gift I received in my life. For what Alistair did to him, and how he suffered in silence all these years …”

“Don’t worry, Aunt Marcia. He’ll be okay, I promise. I’ll look after him.”

She looked at me and nodded. “I believe you.” There was a pause. “When I first found out, I was shocked. But then I remembered what your late mother told me when she found you were gay.”

I felt a lump in my throat. Marcia patted my hand. “I’m sorry they aren’t here today to see what a wonderful young man you’ve become. To offer your home as shelter to your boyfriend may not be a great thing, but to his mother as well … that’s truly remarkable.”

“I couldn’t make you stay somewhere else, not when you were so devoted to standing by your son. It’s not hard to see why. Harry is so easy to love, you know; his charming innocence and ...” I blushed when I realized I’d said that out loud.

She smiled. “You really love him. I hope the two of you will be happy together.” Then her face clouded. “So long as my husband doesn’t try to make life difficult.”

“You think he will?”

She shook her head sadly. “I don’t think, Joshua; I know. Alistair can be very … vindictive. I think it would be best if he didn’t know we were staying here. I know he’ll find out soon enough, but at least not for a little while.”

I nodded. I had to admit, I myself was a bit afraid of Congressman Ridgeway, but if I saw him anytime soon, I would probably punch his lights out. I hated him for what he’d done to poor Harry.

Just then Harry came back into the house, smiling widely with the phone to his ear.

“Phoebe’s on the line,” he told us. “She wants to talk to you, Mom.” He passed the phone to Marcia and turned to me.

“Look what I found in the car,” he said, waving a folder at me. “I completely forgot I’d put this in the car. It’s all my certificates and stuff. I actually have an appointment at the employment centre; I think I can still make it.”

I was a bit taken aback. “You’re sure you want to get a job so soon?”

“Yeah, well, I do need the money, now more than ever. Besides, it’ll help take my mind off … things.” His smile faltered and I knew he was thinking about his father.

“Okay then,” I told him. “I’d have offered you a job at the café, but I guess that wouldn’t really appeal to a Harvard grad.”

“Come on, Josh, don’t put yourself down. I mean, it was unavoidable circumstances that made you drop out of college.”

“Well, I wasn’t very good at academics anyway. I prefer running the café. I’d have loved it if you worked there too, but we are kind of over-staffed at the moment already. I couldn’t really offer you a decent salary.”

“If I worked there, it wouldn’t have been for the pay, Josh. Anyway, you’ll be getting my first month’s salary.”

“What? No, I couldn’t possibly take it.”

“Josh, come on. You’re letting me and my Mom stay here for free.”

I felt slightly annoyed. “Harry, you’re my boyfriend, not my tenant. It’s not a financial relationship we’re having here!”

“Okay, don’t get worked up. I’m getting ahead of myself anyway. We’ll see when I actually receive my first paycheck.”

In the background, Marcia said, “Alright then, Phoebe. We’ll see you soon.” She turned to us.

“Well at least that’s settled. Phoebe got her mother-in-law to baby-sit Alan. And Joshua, I did hear what you and Harrison were discussing while I was on the phone and I must insist that we find some way to pay you back. Maybe not for Harrison, but I certainly must.”

I started to protest, but she cut me off. “Did you say you ran a café?” I nodded.

“What exactly do you sell?”

“Mostly beverages and the occasional sandwich.”

“No baked goods?”

“Well, that would’ve been popular with the guys who come in but none of our staff can bake.”

“You don’t have to look any further,” announced Marcia.

I stared at her. “But you can’t do that!”

She put her hands on her hips. “Are you saying my baking skills aren’t sufficient?”

“No, it’s not that. I just …”

Harry was struggling to hide a grin. “Give it up, Josh. You know my Mom won’t back down.”

“It’ll be good, I promise,” said Marcia.

“I know that, Aunt Marcia. Your chocolate chip cookies were to die for. But it’s just that I don’t want to force you into …”

“You’re not forcing me to do anything. What else would I do here anyway? I don’t even have my grandson to look after. Besides, it would be a good way of repaying you for your kindness.”

“Well,” I said doubtfully. “The café does have an oven that’s never used. I guess you could utilize that. But you’ll need baking ingredients, won’t you?”

“Yes, but Harrison can get them for me when he goes out. I’ll make him a list.”

“Okay, I’ll get you a pen and paper.” As I handed over the notepad and pen to Marcia, I noticed the time on my watch.

“I should be going to the café. I did ask Liz to hold down the fort for me, but I didn’t think I’d be this late.” Then I remembered Reid. I was supposed to look after him.

Harry was looking at me. “Will Reid be going with you?”

“I don’t think he’s in any state to work today.”

Marcia looked at me. “What’s wrong with him?”

I couldn’t tell her the whole story. “He, um, had a late night out and is kind of hung over. I was supposed to keep an eye on him …”

“Oh, don’t worry about that. I’m sure he’ll be fine with me. I’m used to nursing boys with hangovers. Harrison here gets them after just a couple of glasses of wine.”

“Mom!” Harry protested. “I don’t get hung over that easily.”

I wasn’t sure if I should take her up on her offer. I didn’t want to leave Reid alone, and at the same time I had to get down to the café. “Uh, that’s nice of you, Aunt Marcia. If you’re sure, I’ll just check with him.”

Marcia nodded and I went into Reid’s room. He was fast asleep, the lower half of his naked body covered by the comforter.

“Reid, wake up.” I shook his shoulder.

“Mmmhh…” he mumbled and opened his eyes, fixing their pale-blue gaze on me.

“Look, I have to go down to the café, but Harry’s Mom is here and she said she’ll keep n eye on you.”

“What?” he muttered sleepily. “I don’t need a nurse.”

“She’s not going to be your nurse. She’ll be here if you need anything, okay? Can you please put some clothes on?”

He started to go back to sleep. I sighed and went to his wardrobe to pick out a pair of boxers and a t-shirt. I struggled to get him into the clean clothes. When I was done, he immediately covered his face with a pillow.

“Be nice to her,” I warned. “It was very good of her to offer to look after you.”

“Okay,” he mumbled from underneath the pillow. I ruffled his blond hair and went out to get Marcia. Harry followed us into Reid’s room.

“Aunt Marcia, this is Reid Scott. Reid, Marcia Ridgeway.”

Reid made an effort to sit up in bed and extended his hand to her.

“I’m pleased to meet you, Mrs. Ridgeway. I’m sorry it wasn’t at a better time.” I knew that however gruff Reid was around other guys, he was always polite and well-mannered when women were present.

“Bad hangover, huh?” asked Marcia sympathetically. Reid nodded. Marcia turned to me. “I don’t suppose you have any tomatoes?”

“There are some in the kitchen. Why?”

“Tomato juice is quite effective as a hangover cure,” she told me. “I’ll go and make some for Reid.”

“Be warned, it tastes disgusting,” said Harry from behind me.

Reid looked at him briefly, and then back at Marcia. “I don’t mind if it makes my head feel like it isn’t splitting in two. Thanks.”

Marcia smiled. “You’re welcome. Joshua, can you show me the kitchen?”

“Yeah, sure.” I led her out of the room.

***​

“Well, your Mom and Reid seem to be getting along just fine,” I said to Harry. I watched him closely for his reaction. Marcia was in the kitchen.

Harry smiled. “You’re worried how I feel about that? I don’t mind sharing my Mom. I mean, it’s not as if I’m her only child; there’s Phoebe too. But Reid really needs someone to look after him right now. And he was really nice to let us both be together, at the expense of his own happiness.”

“I’m glad you feel so forgiving. I love Reid.” Harry glanced at me sharply. “Not in that way,” I hastily rushed to assure him.

Harry grinned. “Just checking.”

“But I really can’t forget how he threatened and hurt you,” I added.

“He didn’t hurt me!” Harry protested. “Okay, maybe a little. But he wasn’t doing it out of spite. I still like Reid. I like the part of him that’s so vulnerable, you know – the part he doesn’t usually show.”

“Because it reminds you of yourself?” I asked softly.

Harry looked sad. “Yeah, I suppose. But I’m lucky I have you, and Mom, and Phoebe. Reid doesn’t have anyone. So I don’t mind letting him share my Mom if it makes him feel better.”

“I love my little angel,” I told him. I kissed his hair and looked at him. “You don’t only look like one, you know.”

“I don’t know – I’ve always pictured angels as being cherubic and blonde.”

“What, you aren’t cherubic enough?”

He grinned. “Well, I’m not blonde. Maybe I need to dye my hair.”

“Yeah, and get a pair of wings too. Don’t be silly, I love you the way you are. Besides, if I need a blonde, I always have Reid.”

It was a testament to his confidence in me that he didn't protest that comment. I rewarded him with a kiss.

Over his shoulder, I saw Marcia come out of the kitchen and look at us. I panicked for a moment, wanting to break off our kiss. Then I saw her smile encouragingly at us and disappear into Reid’s room.

I let out a sigh of relief, which Harry noticed.

“What’s up?” he asked.

“Nothing. I was just thinking what a beautiful day it was,” I told him, before resuming our kiss.


From the Narrative of Harrison Ridgeway IV:

I returned to Josh’s house around six o’clock. I noted his car wasn’t in the driveway, which meant he was probably still at the café.

“Mom?” I called as I came through the front door. “Where are you?”

Mom came out of Reid’s room. “Shh … he’s sleeping,” she whispered, nodding in Reid’s direction.

“Oh, okay.” I led her away from Reid’s room.

“How was your day? How did the job-hunting go?”

“Well, it was rather short notice, but Jennifer at the centre found two vacancies that were suitable for me. She managed to arrange the interview with one of the firms today, and the other one is set for tomorrow morning.”

“So how did today’s interview go?”

“Quite well, I should think. But I’m hoping for the firm I’m supposed to go to tomorrow. It’s nearer the café so I can pop in to see Josh whenever I feel like it.”

“That’s nice. I hope it works out well. Now, did you get all the things on the list I gave you?”

“Yes, here they are.” I put the shopping bags down on the kitchen counter. As I did, I heard Josh’s car pull up in the garage. A few moments later, he emerged from the door that led directly from the garage into the kitchen.

“Oh, you’re back. So how’d things go?”

I told him. “Reid’s asleep,” I concluded. “It must be one hell of a hangover.”

“The poor boy didn’t sleep the whole day, if that’s what you mean,” Mom interjected. “He even helped me to find the things to cook dinner. But he was looking really tired, so I sent him to have a short nap before dinner.”

“When will dinner be ready?” I asked.

“You’ll have to wait. Joshua, I really don’t know what you and Reid have been eating all this while. Your fridge seems empty except for frozen pizza.”

“No, Reid’s a good cook, except that he has been … a bit moody lately.” I knew what he meant.

“You know, he seems vaguely familiar,” Mom told Josh. “Did you say his surname was Scott? Not related by any chance to the Scotts who own Scottmart?”

Josh looked a bit upset. “The principal shareholder is his father.”

“I knew he looked familiar! He does look a lot like Walter Scott when he was younger. A bit more tanned, that’s all. But why does he work in a café when his father has a whole range of supermarkets?”

Josh sighed. “Aunt Marcia, Reid hasn’t seen his family in years. His father was furious when he told him he was gay. Not to mention his ambition of being a professional surfer.”

If I’d felt badly for Reid earlier, I felt a lot worse now. We really did have a lot more in common than I’d thought. Mom also looked distressed.

“What about his Mom?” I asked softly.

Josh shook his head. “She died of cancer when he was still in high school.”

“Doesn’t he have any other family?” Mom asked.

“He has a younger brother, Carl. But he hasn’t seen him in a while because Walter is grooming him to be his successor and doesn’t want Reid to be a bad influence on him.”

“That’s so sad,” I said. I couldn’t imagine what I would do if I didn’t have my Mom and sister.

Mom nodded. “The poor boy, no wonder he seems so eager to please me.”

Josh said, “I’m glad you brought this up while Reid’s asleep, Aunt Marcia. It would be better if you didn’t discuss it in front of him. He’s already depressed as it is.”

“I understand,” Mom said. I nodded in agreement as well.

***​

For the first time I enjoyed myself at dinner. For one thing, there was no Dad glaring at me from the head of the table. Second, we all seemed to fit in so well, even Reid. I looked at him without letting him see me. I felt sorry for him. So far I’d seen him in casual wear (or naked!) but for dinner he wore a shirt and trousers, and had slicked his hair back neatly. For once he actually looked like someone who’d been destined to run a chain of supermarkets. I couldn’t believe there was such a sad story behind him. He did keep it hidden very well – another thing we had in common.

After dinner, Mom and Reid both went into their own rooms. Josh led me to his. I hesitated.

Josh asked, “Are you nervous? Look, you can sleep here and I’ll sleep on the couch.”

“No, don’t be ridiculous. If anyone should sleep on the couch, it should be me. This is your home.”

Josh looked disappointed. “Oh … so you don’t want to sleep with me?”

I punched his arm playfully. “You idiot! Of course I do.” He relaxed.

“You are so beautiful. I couldn't sit still at dinner, you know, just thinking about you,” he whispered before kissing me.

I felt my knees buckle. Every time he kissed me … it was indescribable. I could feel the longing and love he had for me. I wanted to give myself to this wonderful man.

I gently broke off the kiss and told him softly, “I want you to fuck me.”

To be continued …​

Okay, I know there was supposed to be sex in this chapter, but I decided to hold off to the next chapter, which will be the landmark twentieth. I’ve never had a story that went on for more than ten chapters before! So you’ve learnt a bit more about Reid in this chapter and I’m sure you can already tell that you will be seeing his family sometime in the near future. Oh, and does tomato juice really cure a hangover? It's not scientifically proven, so don't blame me if you swallow that disgusting concoction in vain.

Once again, thank you for reading this story and I’d love to read your comments.