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Swim Team
- Thread starter sheep
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Whoa! Great chapter, and definitely worth the wait, Sheep, Buddy!
I'm confidant that Scott is going to be O.K.! And, I'm impressed with how Vlad took over "the lead".
Now ... there's the question about Jesse ...
Looking forward to what the call from Aaron might involve. And, certainly anticipating further news on how all of "Our Boys" are doing!
Thank You! And ... No Matter What ...
Keep Smilin'!!
Chaz
In spite of my promise to myself to take the summer off writing, I started on Chapter 84 last week. I'm anxious to find out how Scott is doing. I assume he must be okay or the hospital would have called Vlad. It still makes me nervous knowing first hand how rushed staff is in our hospitals and that sometimes details or information drops through the cracks.
I'm a little concerned with Jesse staying with Brad. I'd hate to see Kyle's loft go up in smoke, or Danny's love affair get screwed up. How is Scott going to deal with the "Jesse" issue? It isn't in his DNA to do what needs to be done.
It didn't surprise me that Aaron called. The connection between him and Scott is paranormal as it is with his twin.
I have to guess Scott will survive because he is so excited to be getting a four manual 153 rank world class combination pipe/digital organ for Robb to play. I can only guess that Scott will spend a lot of time on it as his passion has been re-ignited for the organ.
I hope the next chapter is up by the end of the month but anything can happen. The author attempts to mirror Scott's life (sans the lung problem), so it could be a busy summer.
Thanks for the comments, guys. It really helps.
Great to hear from you, Sheep.
^That pesky thing called life and summer workloads got in the way.
No pressure? haha You don't know how much pressure I have on me now. The big news is we have a large solar system now, are getting a big new deck, a hot tub, and some other goodies. Work has been copious, but I have written more of 84. I hoped to have it done before the deck was started but they got here 11 days ahead of schedule and we're in organized chaos now. Interestingly, they are using the screw posts like the boathouse builder will be using for Scott's boathouse for Vlad's launch. What I wrote in Ch 81 was correct but it was interesting to see happening. It took 2 guys 3 hours to put them all in. They are down about 6 ft into the ground and support 5000 lbs each. The filled hot tub weighs 3000 lbs not including Scott and the twins and a rubber ducky, so this deck will be so overbuilt it'll be amazing. Beams made from 2 x 8's on 6 ft centres and 2 x 8 joists on 12" centers topped with Trex® decking material will make a non bouncy deck, unlike the old one with 2 x 6 on 24" centres and 2 x 4 pressure treated decking. It felt like a diving board.
I have 4000 words ready but it isn't quite finished. On top of all of this, we are in election mode here in Canada and I've devoted much time to blogging and tweeting in an effort to get rid of the incumbent while we still can. That will be happening Monday Oct 19. The mood is tense here with only one Canadian newspaper supporting the Harper Conservatives. That's one too many.
I can't make any promises but I'll try my hardest.
](/images/smilies/bang.gif "Brick wall ](*,)")
Take care, Sheep. I hope you had a good Thanksgiving last weekend with all of the irons you have in the fire.
FastOne
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Just catching up... as always, a captivating story. Jesse's probably beating himself up pretty bad right now, and although he certainly was not exactly saintly, I don't believe he ever would have wanted things to turn out like this. Love mixed with jealousy is a potent recipe, though...
I hope the boys can all work things out.
I hope the boys can all work things out.
<i>© 2011-2015 Sheep. All rights reserved. Copyright protected. It is illegal to copy, post or publish without the written consent of the author. This story is NOT in the public domain</i>
Chapter eighty-four
“I was going to phone you tomorrow when I hopefully know more. We were all at the cottage, Jesse chucked a mental and tripped me while I was carrying flaming saginaki to the dinner table. I lost the pan, which landed on the table where the flaming brandy set the matchwood curtains on fire before it ran off the table and started the carpet on fire...”
“Scott... what happened to Scott? He’s been hurt, hasn’t he?” Aaron asked, before he was overcome with emotion.
“He inhaled lots of smoke and got airlifted to the city with a possible collapsed lung. Nobody burned in the cottage, well except I got some burns on my hand when I dragged him out of the burning cottage which was a total loss. I can’t find out anything on Scott until the morning but I’ll call you as soon as I know anything,” Vlad said.
“Wait, this isn’t making any sense. Why would Jesse do that? Adam and I need to come back to be with Scott. We can be on the road in a few minutes...”
“No, don’t do anything just yet. I’ll phone the hospital in the morning and call you. You could check Porter Air for seat availability. If it’s really bad, I’ll get you to fly back but I don’t think it’s that bad. He seemed to be pretty good in the hospital in Orillia. The ER doctor said he was just being cautious. I think Scott has had it with Jesse. Brad took him to his loft for the night for my safety. Why were you calling Scott?” Vlad asked.
“I had an ominous feeling at work around dinner time which wouldn’t go away so I started calling when I was walking home from work. It went to his mailbox so I left a message but didn’t hear back so I kept calling, finally calling you, because you guys are really tight.”
“That might be why Jesse flipped out. I think he was jealous of me. He shouldn’t be. Sure we love each other like you guys love Scott but he wasn’t looking for a replacement for Jesse. Besides, Ryan and I will be married in a month and you guys will be here for the wedding. Ryan has his arm around me now and he feels so good. We were just heading up to bed when you called. The only other thing I’ll add to that is you can’t possibly know how much Scott loves you. Here, say hi to Ryan. I need to pee,” Vlad said, ending their exchange.
**
“He really sounded upset. Isn’t it possible to phone the hospital and inquire as to how Scott is doing?” Ryan asked.
“Maybe I should. It can’t hurt. If I find out anything I’ll call Aaron,” Vlad said.
Since they were sitting on the bed they gave each other a good hard hug and kisses too numerous to count.
Vlad excused himself to return to the library to make a call. He got through to the Intensive Care Unit and got to talk to the nurse looking after Scott. He was told he was asleep now but left a message for Vlad wondering if the chipmunks would be alright and to bring his iPad charger and the score for Bach’s Toccata in F Major BWV 540 in the morning. He was informed that Scott was in good shape and was breathing on his own with the help of some oxygen. Vlad was told he could pay a visit after 9:00 AM but to keep it brief.
He did a spotlight search for toccata in F on the computer and printed it out as he called Aaron.
“Is he okay?” Aaron asked urgently after seeing Scott’s name come up on his display.
“Relax Aaron. I’m sure he’s going to be fine. I talked to the nurse. Apparently, he left word with her, should I call, to bring some things. He wanted to know if the chipmunks would be okay...”
“He loved feeding peanuts to those cute little guys on the side porch -- figures he would be worried about them. I guess that’s a good sign but if anything changes please please please call me right away. I feel so bad that his family’s cottage is gone,” Aaron said.
“I’m going to see him in the morning and I’ll give him a hug from you, Aaron. Keep Adam in the loop and don’t worry about the cottage. He saw a local contractor this afternoon about building a large boathouse with a cottage above, over this winter. He tossed the idea around regarding replacing the cottage. I might go halfs on a new cottage but there isn’t any rush at the moment. Now relax and go to sleep,” Vlad said.
“Adam is leaking precum so I best help him with that. It’s rare for just the two of us to make love so tonight’s a treat with Chris away in Montréal for the weekend,” he said.
Ryan was still awake so Vlad brought him up to speed on Scott. They needed each other emotionally. As their lips met, the stress ran out of both of them and soon after they were asleep in each other’s arms. It had been an awful day.
Sunday started out somewhat foggy but the sun burned it off early. Robb slipped out of bed, grabbing his clothes and left the bedroom heading for the kitchen to make breakfast. Vlad would need all his strength today. Being worried about Scott gave Robb a bigger supply of stomach acid so he took an antacid for relief of the heartburn, and washed it down with some milk. When he got everything he needed out he started the bacon while the coffee was brewing. He set 3 place settings on the bar and when the coffee was ready he took his out to the east terrace and sat down. It had been an incredible summer since realizing his feelings for Scott were mutual. His life to that point was pretty good except for his half brother’s forced advances but it went into hyperdrive, moving in with Scott, spending a weekend at the cottage, meeting James, having his first threeway, and learning to water ski and even getting to drive Scott’s convertible.
He visualized Scott at the cottage, recalling how relaxed he was away from the city and wondered what would happen should things go terribly wrong with Scott’s health. He closed his eyes and thought of the ramifications of a bad outcome as he had a spiritual moment, was overcome with emotions and felt his eyes getting damp. “Scott you have to make it through this. We are counting on you, buddy,” he muttered to himself.
“Who are you talking to, Robb?” Vlad inquired as he placed a hand on Robb’s brawny shoulder.
“You scared me, I didn’t hear you come up behind me. I was trying to communicate with Scott. I think it was working because the ominous feeling is gone now.”
“We all rely on him. He’s like the glue that holds us all together. I think you need to turn down the bacon,” Vlad said.
“Oh, shit. Forgot about it!”
Robb gave him a lateral hug as they went back to the kitchen. Robb continued preparing breakfast, and enlisted Vlad for the toast detail. Ryan came thundering down the stairs yelling “bacon!” They sipped their juice and coffee until Robb received a text.
“Oh wow! Will you look at this. Our organist isn’t back from vacation and the assistant organist is away at a friend’s cottage and had boat problems -- can’t get back in time for the 9:30 service and he wants me to do it! Marvy!” he said, as he texted back confirming he would play the service. “I guess I’ll wear my choir gown. It’ll hide my boner,” he said as he served breakfast.
“Very good Robb, and much more civilized than devouring porterhouse steaks with our fingers in a boat while watching a big bonfire. Do you need a page turner?” Ryan asked.
“That’ll be fun. You’ll find out how bad I suck in the pedal department.”
They wolfed down breakfast, did a quick change while Vlad cleaned up the mess and retrieved Scott’s charger and music, offering Robb and Ryan a lift to the church.
“Thanks Vlad. I’ll have time to familiarize myself with the stops and run through Scott’s lesson on pedal technique before any parishioners come in, and review my cues with our priest,” Robb said.
It was a quick drive up to the church where Vlad dropped them off and continued north to Sunnybrook, finding a parking meter not too far from the entrance. Luckily there was a real person at a desk to inquire as to where Scott was. Soon after, he found the nursing station and connected with the nurse taking care of Scott who told him to try to keep the visit brief.
“Hi stranger! Vlad said to Scott whose head was turned away and aimed at his iPad while he hummed and played “air organ”. As Vlad got closer, he could hear some Bach organ music coming from Scott’s ear buds and saw a video of a nice looking man playing a beautiful pipe organ in a spectacular church. Scott was totally wrapped up in the music video, and with the sound level being fairly high, didn’t hear Vlad arrive.
“Geezuz Vlad, you scared me. I was off in my own little world,” he said, as he pulled out the ear buds, and reached up to Vlad for a hug.
“Luvz ya, dude. How long have I been in here?” Scott asked.
“They brought you in from Orillia by air ambulance last night. It’s 9:30 Sunday morning now. How was the trip?”
“Noisy at first. I remember having difficulty breathing so they turned up the oxygen and I started to calm down. Must have been the drugs because I quickly had this cocoon feeling, the pain subsided and it got bright and I couldn’t hear the helicopter. I was seated at a huge organ console playing Bach’s Toccata in F major beside an older organist who introduced himself as Fred who was turning pages for me. He kept telling me I could do it -- I could do anything I wanted to if I wanted it bad enough. In fact he said to me, Henry Ford once said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't--you're right”. I’ve had 95 years to think about that and you know, he was right!”
“Carry on just like that for about 50 measures with your left foot on F; enjoy it while you can because it’s going to get a little hairy any second -- now your right foot jumps an octave and your feet chase each other up and down the pedalboard for 27 bars,” he said in a classy British accent.
“It seems unbelievable that I could play that piece but I did. He pulled some music from his briefcase as he said to me, “You’re playing is hot tonight. Let’s have some fun now. Move over!”
So I did. He opened J.S. Bach’s Fugue in G Major, better known as the “gigue fugue” BWV 577. He pulled a few stops, asked me to turn pages, then he ripped through it talking while he played.
“The tune comes first in the tenor, second in the alto, 3rd in the soprano and when it hits the bass in my feet, I dance the gigue.”
When he finished, I applauded. He stopped me.
“Save your strength because it’s your turn, if you think you can play it,” with the emphasis on think.
“Watch me, Fred,” I said as I “shoved” him out of my way. “Now you can turn pages for me!” I chuckled.
I played the first part, the tenor, with my left hand on the Choir manual to the sound of the flutes, bounced up to the diapasons on the Great, added the alto to the mix, back on the Choir, keeping both hands busy, bringing it to the soprano and opening the swell box to brighten it up without losing a beat. Then I “danced” the gigue up and down the pedalboard. Perhaps you could call it a foxtrot, more than a gigue. I was hitting the right notes mostly and avoiding the spaces between the keys fairly well while I concentrated on improving my playing. I saw a smile on Fred’s face or perhaps it was a smirk. Bach decided to give my feet a rest at the end of the second page allowing me to concentrate on my keyboard technique, and imitate Fred’s interpretation and speed. Johann Sebastian’s pedal breather was coming to an end quickly so I opened all the swell boxes fully and showed Fred that old Henry knew what he was talking about as I sailed through the last two pages, keeping time with my mouth -- yum pa pum pa yum pa pum pa -ya-pa-pa-ya-da-da and so on. I was trying to out-do Fred, with my hands following each other from the Choir to the Great to the Swell to the Basset Horn stop on the Solo manual and back down to the lowest keyboard, the Choir. Near the end I saw a raised eyebrow, and he clapped out the beat, yum pa pum pa yum pa pum pa ya-pa-pa-da-da-da which really got me pumped. When I got to the last note, I held it just a little longer than he did, to build up a nice reverb, and have it bounce from wall to wall down the cathedral,” I said.
“That’s really weird. I’ve heard of people dying and seeing a bright white light, but playing a tricky Bach piece on a large pipe organ? You must have made it to the pearly gates. Glad they sent you back.”
“I wondered that at the time but just went with the flow. The pain was gone. I felt really happy and well. So did you bring me the score?” I asked.
“Naturally, and here’s the iPad charger and your phone charger. I’ve been in touch with Ted about the cottage and fire and discovered the carpet had a recall on it due to a faulty application of flame retardant. Don’t worry Scott. I just want you to get better and leave these details up to me. If the insurance and carpet manufacturer pay out, Would you consider letting me buy into your island? The land must be worth a fortune now. I was looking at mega cottages for rent on the Muskoka lakes and the rental is out of sight. You have a beautiful piece of land and it’s suitable for a fabulous summer home. I saw a really nice one, 6 bedrooms , 5 baths, 10 beds, 5000 sq ft for $1500 a night, minimum 1 week. If you can pay for the boat house, I’ll pay for the cottage assuming the insurance has a good payout and Ted can sue the carpet manufacturer. I plan on putting about 2 million into it. Maybe more. I want it to be a showplace with everything you could ever dream of, but we should have lots of time to plan it -- call in the consultants, make it fireproof, quiet, dignified, grand, with a large conservatory attached, filled with plants and with a 16 foot swim spa where you swim against a jet of water. The great room should have a huge organ with the console built into a wall so that it could be locked up. You should give some thought to building the boathouse a little further from the cottage so they each retain some privacy,” Vlad suggested.
“I’ve had similar thoughts. We are really on the same page! Did we have a drink together in the library last night? You were crying because I was going to die or because I did die. Vlad, it was a strange experience. I’m sure I have been permanently changed in some way. All I know is I made the right decision when I made out my Will. I see us together forever, and Ryan too. I’m just conflicted as to what to do with Jesse. I want him to leave. I don’t think Jesse and I will ever have a healthy relationship. On the other hand, I want to have rough sex with him before he goes, in every position imaginable. Am I a sick puppy?”
“Robb, Brad, and Jesse had hot sex last night. They were on the terrace; Ryan and I were upstairs in bed pretending to do everything with Jesse. All the tension went away. Apparently Jesse wants to stay but doesn’t think that’s a possibility. He was planning to take a walk up Church Street and see if he could meet someone preferably with some money, so he could stay in school. Brad asked him over last night for the night to keep him away so I wouldn’t be worried. He better not mess up relations with Danny,” Vlad said.
“The reason it’s not possible for Jesse to stay on is because the trust has been broken. I’ve thought about it and realize I was in love with his body. I just told you I still feel that, but it’s so superficial compared to what I feel for you, Ryan, Robb, James, Aaron, Adam, and even Danny and Kyle. I see lots of things changing in my life. I may not be able to continue on the swim team or to get my degree for health reasons. I still want to get it, but I want life to take on more importance,” I said.
“I’m willing to delay the start of my college education so I can stay home and take care of you, or can I rephrase that. I want to stay home with you because you planned to do it for me when I was sick,” Vlad said.
“I appreciate where you’re coming from but if I need help I could get Kevin to move in. He is close to “retirement” age at the bank. I could easily afford to pay him to assist me while I get my strength back. I’d like eventually to see him get a university education and to get away from under his parent’s eyes so he can learn to live his life the way it is rather than the way his parent’s want it to be. I know you haven’t met him, but he is easy going, easy on the eye, and I think he would be a good fit. Has anybody talked to Réjeanne?” I asked.
“Not yet. I had a mysterious call from Aaron last night who sensed that something was the matter with you, and I’m thinking it may have happened when you saw the white light. He said he had an ominous feeling at work and called you while he was walking home, only to get your call answer. Eventually he phoned me. Scott, he was really upset and said they could be in the car headed home in a few minutes. I suggested they look into the availability of airline tickets on Porter to the island airport but I would call as soon as I talked to you. Do you want them to come back?” Vlad asked.
“Come here, Vlad. Listen carefully. I can’t die. I need to learn Bach’s Toccata in F major. The man was coaching me while in that eerie twilight between life and death. I want to believe him. I want to sit at our organ having never played that organ before, or played the music because I believe I can learn it while watching and listening to Dan Campolieta play it while I follow the score. I’m watching his fingering and pedaling while he plays it perfectly on youtube
Under the circumstances if the twins came back I’d feel obliged to die. We have too many irons in the fire for me to drop dead now. Besides, you would have those burns on your hand and a dead body on your hands for all your heroism. That would suck. So the plan is to learn the toccata in F, one of Bach’s most difficult, get out of the hospital by Friday to help with the organ installation, plug a USB memory stick in the console, and record it while playing. That way I can play for my own funeral if I don’t make it, and save a few bucks not needing to hire an organist,” I said, with a smirk on my face.
I was whispering to Vlad because I didn’t have the lungs to speak up any longer. With his face so close to my lips I couldn’t resist giving him a kiss on the cheek. I also asked him to bring the gigue fugue. That tune was running through my head. My medical team appeared, checked me over and told me they could move me to Acute care from the ICU because I appeared to have stabilized.
“Mr. Williams, you will be more comfortable there; it’s quieter and not so invasive. You’ll be moved when the paperwork catches up,” she said.
“So does that mean I’m not going to die any time soon?”
“You’re coming along pretty well. I’ll send your friend back in,” she said with a smile.
“Did they find a pulse?”
“Guess so, they are moving me to Acute Care. I can use my phone when I get moved so I’ll give Aaron a call but please call him and tell him everything is going fine in case I don’t get moved for a couple of days.”
“I’ll get in touch with Jeff, Josh, Réjeanne, and Marie and setup a meeting today or tomorrow to make sure everyone’s questions are answered. It’ll give me a better understanding of the scope of the project. Can I take your laptop because all the files are on it?” Vlad asked.
“After the meeting copy everything from mine to yours and could you bring mine to me next time you come? One other thing, try to be non-committal about Jesse -- just say you didn’t discuss it. I’ve heard sex with an ex is phenomenal but I doubt that I could forgive him for being stupid and putting all of us in harm’s way. I’ve done a bunch to make sure you live, and Jesse’s action could have got you killed. I’ll text you when I get moved. I’d love payback head but it might kill me so gimme a hug instead, Vlad.”
The curtain was still drawn around my bed. Vlad gave me a wet one on my lips and reached under the covers and familiarized himself with me while I had good thoughts. As Vlad was leaving, they came to wheel me down the hall. It was nice to finally get out of bed and be pushed out of a room full of moaners and screamers -- people who were obviously in worse shape than me. I might have moaned a little while Vlad was exploring but it was very soft (the moan).
The Acute Care facility wasn’t anywhere close to being a regular hospital room but the bed was marginally wider, more comfortable and there was an electrical outlet where I could reach it so I plugged the iPad in for a boost.
“Aaron, it’s Scott. Hope I didn’t wake you. Vlad was worried about you so here I am. I just got out of ICU and am in Acute Care now, and feeling better after Vlad’s visit,” I said.
“We can be there in a few hours...”
“...and I’d love to see your sweet face; it seems like a lifetime ago since we were together but I know it’s only three days. Babes, don’t come. I can’t do what I want and I don’t know when I’ll be home, besides, I have a tonne of stuff to do when I’m able. Vlad is taking care of everything like the cottage, boathouse, meeting with your mom and aunt to get that project under way. He’s been liaising with our lawyer. I expect Jesse and I will part ways. I don’t even know if the island burned. If it’s okay, Vlad wants to build a huge beautiful summer home for us but that will be awhile. In the mean time I’m building a big boathouse with quarters above, which will be larger and nicer than the old cottage, and it’s going to be built in time for Spring opening by a local builder who James knows. The cottage will be rented out part of the summer for $1,500 to $2,000 a night, which doesn’t include a chef or maid. Hey, just a thought but how would you like to design the kitchen? I’m sure after your course you should know exactly how a kitchen should work and look. The designers can help make it look nice like a mansion kitchen and you can make it work like a commercial one,” I said.
“Really? Scott, I’d love to do that for you, but maybe you should think of opening the place as a private dining room for the ultra rich only a few Saturday nights each summer, for groups. The people would have a meeting with the chef to establish a menu, selecting appropriate wines to pair with the various courses. Either way, it’s good to supply staff to make sure nobody gets out of control. You could hire Danny to pick up the partiers and take them home safely. Perhaps get a piano and have someone play it for cocktail hour,” Aaron said.
“Hmm, intriguing idea. Maybe you could develop the idea with Adam to determine if it’s feasible or likely to be profitable,” I said.
I told Aaron a little lie that I was tired and wanted to sleep. We said our goodbyes. I opened the score to Bach’s Toccata in F major and cued the iPad and in my mind I was transported back to that very strange twilight organ lesson, totally immersed and had a smile on my face.
**
Vlad met with the twins’ mother, aunt, and Jeff and Josh, the contractors, at 1:30 in the afternoon at Réjeanne’s house to get the project costing and timeline agreed upon. Jeff re-costed the job with the geothermal heat pump, new on-demand water heater that added a little to the cost of rebuilding the house but which would lower operating costs further and suggested solar panels if the 25% contingency wasn’t touched. That could be decided later. Jeff talked to the real estate professional who suggested some renovations to Marie’s house like a second bathroom in the master bedroom, and renovations to the existing bathroom which was original to the house circa 1950 and a new kitchen. This would be a pretty quick renovation which would make the house very saleable while getting the money out of it in the sale of the house. All of the houses originally had only one bathroom which was no longer compatible with today’s lifestyle. The un-renovated properties took an extra two months to sell on her street.
Everybody initialed the drawings and Jeff sent copies of the contract to all parties with a promise to draw up another one for Marie’s house in a couple of days. Vlad explained the reason for Scott’s absence to the horror of all but went on to explain that he and Scott joined forces in a business venture and that the paperwork for their incorporation hadn’t been finalized but was due very soon and the money would be advanced under the name of the new business. Until then, everything was sealed with a handshake.
Jeff and Josh stayed after Vlad went home. They wanted to verify measurements before the plans were blueprinted and submitted to the city for a building permit. Zoning allowed for multi-family use so that wasn’t an issue.
Vlad returned home to a jubilant Robb and Ryan.
“He did very well on the pedalboard and I doubt if anyone in the congregation knew it was Robb’s first service,” Ryan said.
“90% of the congregation can’t see well enough to tell it wasn’t the regular organist, Ryan! The priest congratulated me, thanking me for playing the service on such short notice and told me he would be in touch with the organist to get keys so I can come whenever the church isn’t occupied, to practice,” Robb added.
“That’s good news having a huge church organ for practice. You have no excuse for not having the best grades in your class,” Vlad said.
“You just missed a call from James. He said the forestry service went in to the island this morning to check for fire and confirmed it burned itself out. It rained again shortly after we left last night apparently. They are treating it like an accident which I guess is just as well. Scott will be happy that the island escaped the fire,” Robb said.
“I need to text him to see if any carpet survived. Better yet, I’ll call him,” Vlad said as he ran up to the library.
“James, I hear the cottage fire didn’t start a forest fire on the island.”
“I took the fire guys in and took some pictures of what is left. There are a few piers still standing, part of the fireplace and the refrigerators are semi recognizable. The bathroom sink is in pieces. Everything is pretty black,” James said.
“Are there any pieces of carpet still in existence?”
“Let me check my phone...it looks like there might be. Do you need some?”
“James if it’s possible to zip over there, I would love to get a piece of the carpet with the numbers on the back. There was a recall due to an incorrect application of fire retardant. I have the bill but having a piece from the edge of the fire would be damning evidence in court. When you come back I’d like to get your photos as well. While you are over there can you see if there is a spot for the boathouse a bit further down the lake like a hundred to two hundred feet and if there is, can you take some photos?” Vlad asked.
Yeah I will. It’s been really busy until a few minutes ago but I can go now. Have you seen Scott? How is he?” James asked.
“I think he is going to be all right. He is out of ICU so you can phone him on his cell. I know he’ll be happy to hear from you,” Vlad said.
“I’m coming back to the city in the morning, bringing Danny with me and I’m looking forward to a soak in the hot tub.”
“I can’t wait till we are all back together and in a routine of eating, studies, sleeping, playing, showering together, going to school, swimming, soaking, swim team trips, pig roasts, the occasional wedding and other stuff, and the circle begins all over,” Vlad said.
**
Brad let himself in, alone, explaining that Jesse calmed down last night after they lay in bed talking until 3 am. Cuddles helped control Jessie’s anxiety. He went for a walk up Church Street mid-afternoon. Robb got ambitious and made a meat loaf, mashed potatoes and peas for dinner, asking Brad to stay and also round up whoever was around.
Vlad, Robb, Ryan, and Brad were the only ones for dinner that night. It seemed really quiet compared to normal. The meal was fine although not as exciting as gnawing on a porterhouse with your fingers while capping off “the mother of all weekends.” We had a glass of milk with the meal. We attempted to watch a movie after dinner, but compared to our lives the movie was boring. Ten minutes into it, Brad was in the kitchen putting the dishes into the dishwasher.
“Let’s hang out in Scott’s library, try some Scotches, and pretend he is back with us and be naughty,” Vlad suggested.
A part bottle of an Islay single malt
divided equally in four glasses that had a very little amount of water added to them.
“Here’s to his quick recovery,” Ryan said, holding his glass high.
“I don’t know what to think. It’s all very strange,” Vlad said, planting his face against Ryan’s broad shoulder.
to be continued ...
Chapter eighty-four
“I was going to phone you tomorrow when I hopefully know more. We were all at the cottage, Jesse chucked a mental and tripped me while I was carrying flaming saginaki to the dinner table. I lost the pan, which landed on the table where the flaming brandy set the matchwood curtains on fire before it ran off the table and started the carpet on fire...”
“Scott... what happened to Scott? He’s been hurt, hasn’t he?” Aaron asked, before he was overcome with emotion.
“He inhaled lots of smoke and got airlifted to the city with a possible collapsed lung. Nobody burned in the cottage, well except I got some burns on my hand when I dragged him out of the burning cottage which was a total loss. I can’t find out anything on Scott until the morning but I’ll call you as soon as I know anything,” Vlad said.
“Wait, this isn’t making any sense. Why would Jesse do that? Adam and I need to come back to be with Scott. We can be on the road in a few minutes...”
“No, don’t do anything just yet. I’ll phone the hospital in the morning and call you. You could check Porter Air for seat availability. If it’s really bad, I’ll get you to fly back but I don’t think it’s that bad. He seemed to be pretty good in the hospital in Orillia. The ER doctor said he was just being cautious. I think Scott has had it with Jesse. Brad took him to his loft for the night for my safety. Why were you calling Scott?” Vlad asked.
“I had an ominous feeling at work around dinner time which wouldn’t go away so I started calling when I was walking home from work. It went to his mailbox so I left a message but didn’t hear back so I kept calling, finally calling you, because you guys are really tight.”
“That might be why Jesse flipped out. I think he was jealous of me. He shouldn’t be. Sure we love each other like you guys love Scott but he wasn’t looking for a replacement for Jesse. Besides, Ryan and I will be married in a month and you guys will be here for the wedding. Ryan has his arm around me now and he feels so good. We were just heading up to bed when you called. The only other thing I’ll add to that is you can’t possibly know how much Scott loves you. Here, say hi to Ryan. I need to pee,” Vlad said, ending their exchange.
**
“He really sounded upset. Isn’t it possible to phone the hospital and inquire as to how Scott is doing?” Ryan asked.
“Maybe I should. It can’t hurt. If I find out anything I’ll call Aaron,” Vlad said.
Since they were sitting on the bed they gave each other a good hard hug and kisses too numerous to count.
Vlad excused himself to return to the library to make a call. He got through to the Intensive Care Unit and got to talk to the nurse looking after Scott. He was told he was asleep now but left a message for Vlad wondering if the chipmunks would be alright and to bring his iPad charger and the score for Bach’s Toccata in F Major BWV 540 in the morning. He was informed that Scott was in good shape and was breathing on his own with the help of some oxygen. Vlad was told he could pay a visit after 9:00 AM but to keep it brief.
He did a spotlight search for toccata in F on the computer and printed it out as he called Aaron.
“Is he okay?” Aaron asked urgently after seeing Scott’s name come up on his display.
“Relax Aaron. I’m sure he’s going to be fine. I talked to the nurse. Apparently, he left word with her, should I call, to bring some things. He wanted to know if the chipmunks would be okay...”
“He loved feeding peanuts to those cute little guys on the side porch -- figures he would be worried about them. I guess that’s a good sign but if anything changes please please please call me right away. I feel so bad that his family’s cottage is gone,” Aaron said.
“I’m going to see him in the morning and I’ll give him a hug from you, Aaron. Keep Adam in the loop and don’t worry about the cottage. He saw a local contractor this afternoon about building a large boathouse with a cottage above, over this winter. He tossed the idea around regarding replacing the cottage. I might go halfs on a new cottage but there isn’t any rush at the moment. Now relax and go to sleep,” Vlad said.
“Adam is leaking precum so I best help him with that. It’s rare for just the two of us to make love so tonight’s a treat with Chris away in Montréal for the weekend,” he said.
Ryan was still awake so Vlad brought him up to speed on Scott. They needed each other emotionally. As their lips met, the stress ran out of both of them and soon after they were asleep in each other’s arms. It had been an awful day.
Sunday started out somewhat foggy but the sun burned it off early. Robb slipped out of bed, grabbing his clothes and left the bedroom heading for the kitchen to make breakfast. Vlad would need all his strength today. Being worried about Scott gave Robb a bigger supply of stomach acid so he took an antacid for relief of the heartburn, and washed it down with some milk. When he got everything he needed out he started the bacon while the coffee was brewing. He set 3 place settings on the bar and when the coffee was ready he took his out to the east terrace and sat down. It had been an incredible summer since realizing his feelings for Scott were mutual. His life to that point was pretty good except for his half brother’s forced advances but it went into hyperdrive, moving in with Scott, spending a weekend at the cottage, meeting James, having his first threeway, and learning to water ski and even getting to drive Scott’s convertible.
He visualized Scott at the cottage, recalling how relaxed he was away from the city and wondered what would happen should things go terribly wrong with Scott’s health. He closed his eyes and thought of the ramifications of a bad outcome as he had a spiritual moment, was overcome with emotions and felt his eyes getting damp. “Scott you have to make it through this. We are counting on you, buddy,” he muttered to himself.
“Who are you talking to, Robb?” Vlad inquired as he placed a hand on Robb’s brawny shoulder.
“You scared me, I didn’t hear you come up behind me. I was trying to communicate with Scott. I think it was working because the ominous feeling is gone now.”
“We all rely on him. He’s like the glue that holds us all together. I think you need to turn down the bacon,” Vlad said.
“Oh, shit. Forgot about it!”
Robb gave him a lateral hug as they went back to the kitchen. Robb continued preparing breakfast, and enlisted Vlad for the toast detail. Ryan came thundering down the stairs yelling “bacon!” They sipped their juice and coffee until Robb received a text.
“Oh wow! Will you look at this. Our organist isn’t back from vacation and the assistant organist is away at a friend’s cottage and had boat problems -- can’t get back in time for the 9:30 service and he wants me to do it! Marvy!” he said, as he texted back confirming he would play the service. “I guess I’ll wear my choir gown. It’ll hide my boner,” he said as he served breakfast.
“Very good Robb, and much more civilized than devouring porterhouse steaks with our fingers in a boat while watching a big bonfire. Do you need a page turner?” Ryan asked.
“That’ll be fun. You’ll find out how bad I suck in the pedal department.”
They wolfed down breakfast, did a quick change while Vlad cleaned up the mess and retrieved Scott’s charger and music, offering Robb and Ryan a lift to the church.
“Thanks Vlad. I’ll have time to familiarize myself with the stops and run through Scott’s lesson on pedal technique before any parishioners come in, and review my cues with our priest,” Robb said.
It was a quick drive up to the church where Vlad dropped them off and continued north to Sunnybrook, finding a parking meter not too far from the entrance. Luckily there was a real person at a desk to inquire as to where Scott was. Soon after, he found the nursing station and connected with the nurse taking care of Scott who told him to try to keep the visit brief.
“Hi stranger! Vlad said to Scott whose head was turned away and aimed at his iPad while he hummed and played “air organ”. As Vlad got closer, he could hear some Bach organ music coming from Scott’s ear buds and saw a video of a nice looking man playing a beautiful pipe organ in a spectacular church. Scott was totally wrapped up in the music video, and with the sound level being fairly high, didn’t hear Vlad arrive.
“Geezuz Vlad, you scared me. I was off in my own little world,” he said, as he pulled out the ear buds, and reached up to Vlad for a hug.
“Luvz ya, dude. How long have I been in here?” Scott asked.
“They brought you in from Orillia by air ambulance last night. It’s 9:30 Sunday morning now. How was the trip?”
“Noisy at first. I remember having difficulty breathing so they turned up the oxygen and I started to calm down. Must have been the drugs because I quickly had this cocoon feeling, the pain subsided and it got bright and I couldn’t hear the helicopter. I was seated at a huge organ console playing Bach’s Toccata in F major beside an older organist who introduced himself as Fred who was turning pages for me. He kept telling me I could do it -- I could do anything I wanted to if I wanted it bad enough. In fact he said to me, Henry Ford once said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't--you're right”. I’ve had 95 years to think about that and you know, he was right!”
“Carry on just like that for about 50 measures with your left foot on F; enjoy it while you can because it’s going to get a little hairy any second -- now your right foot jumps an octave and your feet chase each other up and down the pedalboard for 27 bars,” he said in a classy British accent.
“It seems unbelievable that I could play that piece but I did. He pulled some music from his briefcase as he said to me, “You’re playing is hot tonight. Let’s have some fun now. Move over!”
So I did. He opened J.S. Bach’s Fugue in G Major, better known as the “gigue fugue” BWV 577. He pulled a few stops, asked me to turn pages, then he ripped through it talking while he played.
“The tune comes first in the tenor, second in the alto, 3rd in the soprano and when it hits the bass in my feet, I dance the gigue.”
When he finished, I applauded. He stopped me.
“Save your strength because it’s your turn, if you think you can play it,” with the emphasis on think.
“Watch me, Fred,” I said as I “shoved” him out of my way. “Now you can turn pages for me!” I chuckled.
I played the first part, the tenor, with my left hand on the Choir manual to the sound of the flutes, bounced up to the diapasons on the Great, added the alto to the mix, back on the Choir, keeping both hands busy, bringing it to the soprano and opening the swell box to brighten it up without losing a beat. Then I “danced” the gigue up and down the pedalboard. Perhaps you could call it a foxtrot, more than a gigue. I was hitting the right notes mostly and avoiding the spaces between the keys fairly well while I concentrated on improving my playing. I saw a smile on Fred’s face or perhaps it was a smirk. Bach decided to give my feet a rest at the end of the second page allowing me to concentrate on my keyboard technique, and imitate Fred’s interpretation and speed. Johann Sebastian’s pedal breather was coming to an end quickly so I opened all the swell boxes fully and showed Fred that old Henry knew what he was talking about as I sailed through the last two pages, keeping time with my mouth -- yum pa pum pa yum pa pum pa -ya-pa-pa-ya-da-da and so on. I was trying to out-do Fred, with my hands following each other from the Choir to the Great to the Swell to the Basset Horn stop on the Solo manual and back down to the lowest keyboard, the Choir. Near the end I saw a raised eyebrow, and he clapped out the beat, yum pa pum pa yum pa pum pa ya-pa-pa-da-da-da which really got me pumped. When I got to the last note, I held it just a little longer than he did, to build up a nice reverb, and have it bounce from wall to wall down the cathedral,” I said.
“That’s really weird. I’ve heard of people dying and seeing a bright white light, but playing a tricky Bach piece on a large pipe organ? You must have made it to the pearly gates. Glad they sent you back.”
“I wondered that at the time but just went with the flow. The pain was gone. I felt really happy and well. So did you bring me the score?” I asked.
“Naturally, and here’s the iPad charger and your phone charger. I’ve been in touch with Ted about the cottage and fire and discovered the carpet had a recall on it due to a faulty application of flame retardant. Don’t worry Scott. I just want you to get better and leave these details up to me. If the insurance and carpet manufacturer pay out, Would you consider letting me buy into your island? The land must be worth a fortune now. I was looking at mega cottages for rent on the Muskoka lakes and the rental is out of sight. You have a beautiful piece of land and it’s suitable for a fabulous summer home. I saw a really nice one, 6 bedrooms , 5 baths, 10 beds, 5000 sq ft for $1500 a night, minimum 1 week. If you can pay for the boat house, I’ll pay for the cottage assuming the insurance has a good payout and Ted can sue the carpet manufacturer. I plan on putting about 2 million into it. Maybe more. I want it to be a showplace with everything you could ever dream of, but we should have lots of time to plan it -- call in the consultants, make it fireproof, quiet, dignified, grand, with a large conservatory attached, filled with plants and with a 16 foot swim spa where you swim against a jet of water. The great room should have a huge organ with the console built into a wall so that it could be locked up. You should give some thought to building the boathouse a little further from the cottage so they each retain some privacy,” Vlad suggested.
“I’ve had similar thoughts. We are really on the same page! Did we have a drink together in the library last night? You were crying because I was going to die or because I did die. Vlad, it was a strange experience. I’m sure I have been permanently changed in some way. All I know is I made the right decision when I made out my Will. I see us together forever, and Ryan too. I’m just conflicted as to what to do with Jesse. I want him to leave. I don’t think Jesse and I will ever have a healthy relationship. On the other hand, I want to have rough sex with him before he goes, in every position imaginable. Am I a sick puppy?”
“Robb, Brad, and Jesse had hot sex last night. They were on the terrace; Ryan and I were upstairs in bed pretending to do everything with Jesse. All the tension went away. Apparently Jesse wants to stay but doesn’t think that’s a possibility. He was planning to take a walk up Church Street and see if he could meet someone preferably with some money, so he could stay in school. Brad asked him over last night for the night to keep him away so I wouldn’t be worried. He better not mess up relations with Danny,” Vlad said.
“The reason it’s not possible for Jesse to stay on is because the trust has been broken. I’ve thought about it and realize I was in love with his body. I just told you I still feel that, but it’s so superficial compared to what I feel for you, Ryan, Robb, James, Aaron, Adam, and even Danny and Kyle. I see lots of things changing in my life. I may not be able to continue on the swim team or to get my degree for health reasons. I still want to get it, but I want life to take on more importance,” I said.
“I’m willing to delay the start of my college education so I can stay home and take care of you, or can I rephrase that. I want to stay home with you because you planned to do it for me when I was sick,” Vlad said.
“I appreciate where you’re coming from but if I need help I could get Kevin to move in. He is close to “retirement” age at the bank. I could easily afford to pay him to assist me while I get my strength back. I’d like eventually to see him get a university education and to get away from under his parent’s eyes so he can learn to live his life the way it is rather than the way his parent’s want it to be. I know you haven’t met him, but he is easy going, easy on the eye, and I think he would be a good fit. Has anybody talked to Réjeanne?” I asked.
“Not yet. I had a mysterious call from Aaron last night who sensed that something was the matter with you, and I’m thinking it may have happened when you saw the white light. He said he had an ominous feeling at work and called you while he was walking home, only to get your call answer. Eventually he phoned me. Scott, he was really upset and said they could be in the car headed home in a few minutes. I suggested they look into the availability of airline tickets on Porter to the island airport but I would call as soon as I talked to you. Do you want them to come back?” Vlad asked.
“Come here, Vlad. Listen carefully. I can’t die. I need to learn Bach’s Toccata in F major. The man was coaching me while in that eerie twilight between life and death. I want to believe him. I want to sit at our organ having never played that organ before, or played the music because I believe I can learn it while watching and listening to Dan Campolieta play it while I follow the score. I’m watching his fingering and pedaling while he plays it perfectly on youtube
I was whispering to Vlad because I didn’t have the lungs to speak up any longer. With his face so close to my lips I couldn’t resist giving him a kiss on the cheek. I also asked him to bring the gigue fugue. That tune was running through my head. My medical team appeared, checked me over and told me they could move me to Acute care from the ICU because I appeared to have stabilized.
“Mr. Williams, you will be more comfortable there; it’s quieter and not so invasive. You’ll be moved when the paperwork catches up,” she said.
“So does that mean I’m not going to die any time soon?”
“You’re coming along pretty well. I’ll send your friend back in,” she said with a smile.
“Did they find a pulse?”
“Guess so, they are moving me to Acute Care. I can use my phone when I get moved so I’ll give Aaron a call but please call him and tell him everything is going fine in case I don’t get moved for a couple of days.”
“I’ll get in touch with Jeff, Josh, Réjeanne, and Marie and setup a meeting today or tomorrow to make sure everyone’s questions are answered. It’ll give me a better understanding of the scope of the project. Can I take your laptop because all the files are on it?” Vlad asked.
“After the meeting copy everything from mine to yours and could you bring mine to me next time you come? One other thing, try to be non-committal about Jesse -- just say you didn’t discuss it. I’ve heard sex with an ex is phenomenal but I doubt that I could forgive him for being stupid and putting all of us in harm’s way. I’ve done a bunch to make sure you live, and Jesse’s action could have got you killed. I’ll text you when I get moved. I’d love payback head but it might kill me so gimme a hug instead, Vlad.”
The curtain was still drawn around my bed. Vlad gave me a wet one on my lips and reached under the covers and familiarized himself with me while I had good thoughts. As Vlad was leaving, they came to wheel me down the hall. It was nice to finally get out of bed and be pushed out of a room full of moaners and screamers -- people who were obviously in worse shape than me. I might have moaned a little while Vlad was exploring but it was very soft (the moan).
The Acute Care facility wasn’t anywhere close to being a regular hospital room but the bed was marginally wider, more comfortable and there was an electrical outlet where I could reach it so I plugged the iPad in for a boost.
“Aaron, it’s Scott. Hope I didn’t wake you. Vlad was worried about you so here I am. I just got out of ICU and am in Acute Care now, and feeling better after Vlad’s visit,” I said.
“We can be there in a few hours...”
“...and I’d love to see your sweet face; it seems like a lifetime ago since we were together but I know it’s only three days. Babes, don’t come. I can’t do what I want and I don’t know when I’ll be home, besides, I have a tonne of stuff to do when I’m able. Vlad is taking care of everything like the cottage, boathouse, meeting with your mom and aunt to get that project under way. He’s been liaising with our lawyer. I expect Jesse and I will part ways. I don’t even know if the island burned. If it’s okay, Vlad wants to build a huge beautiful summer home for us but that will be awhile. In the mean time I’m building a big boathouse with quarters above, which will be larger and nicer than the old cottage, and it’s going to be built in time for Spring opening by a local builder who James knows. The cottage will be rented out part of the summer for $1,500 to $2,000 a night, which doesn’t include a chef or maid. Hey, just a thought but how would you like to design the kitchen? I’m sure after your course you should know exactly how a kitchen should work and look. The designers can help make it look nice like a mansion kitchen and you can make it work like a commercial one,” I said.
“Really? Scott, I’d love to do that for you, but maybe you should think of opening the place as a private dining room for the ultra rich only a few Saturday nights each summer, for groups. The people would have a meeting with the chef to establish a menu, selecting appropriate wines to pair with the various courses. Either way, it’s good to supply staff to make sure nobody gets out of control. You could hire Danny to pick up the partiers and take them home safely. Perhaps get a piano and have someone play it for cocktail hour,” Aaron said.
“Hmm, intriguing idea. Maybe you could develop the idea with Adam to determine if it’s feasible or likely to be profitable,” I said.
I told Aaron a little lie that I was tired and wanted to sleep. We said our goodbyes. I opened the score to Bach’s Toccata in F major and cued the iPad and in my mind I was transported back to that very strange twilight organ lesson, totally immersed and had a smile on my face.
**
Vlad met with the twins’ mother, aunt, and Jeff and Josh, the contractors, at 1:30 in the afternoon at Réjeanne’s house to get the project costing and timeline agreed upon. Jeff re-costed the job with the geothermal heat pump, new on-demand water heater that added a little to the cost of rebuilding the house but which would lower operating costs further and suggested solar panels if the 25% contingency wasn’t touched. That could be decided later. Jeff talked to the real estate professional who suggested some renovations to Marie’s house like a second bathroom in the master bedroom, and renovations to the existing bathroom which was original to the house circa 1950 and a new kitchen. This would be a pretty quick renovation which would make the house very saleable while getting the money out of it in the sale of the house. All of the houses originally had only one bathroom which was no longer compatible with today’s lifestyle. The un-renovated properties took an extra two months to sell on her street.
Everybody initialed the drawings and Jeff sent copies of the contract to all parties with a promise to draw up another one for Marie’s house in a couple of days. Vlad explained the reason for Scott’s absence to the horror of all but went on to explain that he and Scott joined forces in a business venture and that the paperwork for their incorporation hadn’t been finalized but was due very soon and the money would be advanced under the name of the new business. Until then, everything was sealed with a handshake.
Jeff and Josh stayed after Vlad went home. They wanted to verify measurements before the plans were blueprinted and submitted to the city for a building permit. Zoning allowed for multi-family use so that wasn’t an issue.
Vlad returned home to a jubilant Robb and Ryan.
“He did very well on the pedalboard and I doubt if anyone in the congregation knew it was Robb’s first service,” Ryan said.
“90% of the congregation can’t see well enough to tell it wasn’t the regular organist, Ryan! The priest congratulated me, thanking me for playing the service on such short notice and told me he would be in touch with the organist to get keys so I can come whenever the church isn’t occupied, to practice,” Robb added.
“That’s good news having a huge church organ for practice. You have no excuse for not having the best grades in your class,” Vlad said.
“You just missed a call from James. He said the forestry service went in to the island this morning to check for fire and confirmed it burned itself out. It rained again shortly after we left last night apparently. They are treating it like an accident which I guess is just as well. Scott will be happy that the island escaped the fire,” Robb said.
“I need to text him to see if any carpet survived. Better yet, I’ll call him,” Vlad said as he ran up to the library.
“James, I hear the cottage fire didn’t start a forest fire on the island.”
“I took the fire guys in and took some pictures of what is left. There are a few piers still standing, part of the fireplace and the refrigerators are semi recognizable. The bathroom sink is in pieces. Everything is pretty black,” James said.
“Are there any pieces of carpet still in existence?”
“Let me check my phone...it looks like there might be. Do you need some?”
“James if it’s possible to zip over there, I would love to get a piece of the carpet with the numbers on the back. There was a recall due to an incorrect application of fire retardant. I have the bill but having a piece from the edge of the fire would be damning evidence in court. When you come back I’d like to get your photos as well. While you are over there can you see if there is a spot for the boathouse a bit further down the lake like a hundred to two hundred feet and if there is, can you take some photos?” Vlad asked.
Yeah I will. It’s been really busy until a few minutes ago but I can go now. Have you seen Scott? How is he?” James asked.
“I think he is going to be all right. He is out of ICU so you can phone him on his cell. I know he’ll be happy to hear from you,” Vlad said.
“I’m coming back to the city in the morning, bringing Danny with me and I’m looking forward to a soak in the hot tub.”
“I can’t wait till we are all back together and in a routine of eating, studies, sleeping, playing, showering together, going to school, swimming, soaking, swim team trips, pig roasts, the occasional wedding and other stuff, and the circle begins all over,” Vlad said.
**
Brad let himself in, alone, explaining that Jesse calmed down last night after they lay in bed talking until 3 am. Cuddles helped control Jessie’s anxiety. He went for a walk up Church Street mid-afternoon. Robb got ambitious and made a meat loaf, mashed potatoes and peas for dinner, asking Brad to stay and also round up whoever was around.
Vlad, Robb, Ryan, and Brad were the only ones for dinner that night. It seemed really quiet compared to normal. The meal was fine although not as exciting as gnawing on a porterhouse with your fingers while capping off “the mother of all weekends.” We had a glass of milk with the meal. We attempted to watch a movie after dinner, but compared to our lives the movie was boring. Ten minutes into it, Brad was in the kitchen putting the dishes into the dishwasher.
“Let’s hang out in Scott’s library, try some Scotches, and pretend he is back with us and be naughty,” Vlad suggested.
A part bottle of an Islay single malt
divided equally in four glasses that had a very little amount of water added to them.
“Here’s to his quick recovery,” Ryan said, holding his glass high.
“I don’t know what to think. It’s all very strange,” Vlad said, planting his face against Ryan’s broad shoulder.
to be continued ...
this goes with the copyright info.
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I guess jub doesn't do hard coding in html anymore
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I guess jub doesn't do hard coding in html anymore
Sheep,
Talk about a MAJOR update on just about everyone!
Close encounters, dumb-ass green-eyed monsters compounded by a defective fireproofing on the carpeting.
And Scott seems to have had a quick trip to the pearly gates and back - talk about out of body experiences.
My head is spinning from everything going on in their lives.
Thanks!
Talk about a MAJOR update on just about everyone!
Close encounters, dumb-ass green-eyed monsters compounded by a defective fireproofing on the carpeting.
And Scott seems to have had a quick trip to the pearly gates and back - talk about out of body experiences.
My head is spinning from everything going on in their lives.
Thanks!
- Joined
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That is certainly what I'd call a Very FULL Chapter! 
I can only wish things around here were at least 1/4 as eventful, good, bad, and all.
(As if they ever were.
)
All the possibilities can be so entertaining when the finances are there to back them up. 
Sorry to hear about Jesse. Unfortunately it sounds as though that's best for everyone. Life often has ways of moving on, in it's own ways, whether we like it, or not.
As the Preacher's Kid, I had keys to the church, and spent many, happy, solitary hours playing the piano or organ. As Dad was promoted up through the Conference, each successive assignment was a bigger congregation, with a bigger building, and, of course, a larger organ.
I went from a "double deck" Hammond up through a four course Wurlitzer. You'd be surprised how LOUD those things can be when no one else is around!
Thank You for this Awesome story, Sheep, Buddy!
Keep Smilin'!! 
Chaz
I can only wish things around here were at least 1/4 as eventful, good, bad, and all.
(As if they ever were.
)All the possibilities can be so entertaining when the finances are there to back them up.
Sorry to hear about Jesse. Unfortunately it sounds as though that's best for everyone. Life often has ways of moving on, in it's own ways, whether we like it, or not.
As the Preacher's Kid, I had keys to the church, and spent many, happy, solitary hours playing the piano or organ. As Dad was promoted up through the Conference, each successive assignment was a bigger congregation, with a bigger building, and, of course, a larger organ.
I went from a "double deck" Hammond up through a four course Wurlitzer. You'd be surprised how LOUD those things can be when no one else is around!
Thank You for this Awesome story, Sheep, Buddy!
Keep Smilin'!!
Chaz
Chaz,
And here I thought you concentrated on the flute.
And here I thought you concentrated on the flute.
That is certainly what I'd call a Very FULL Chapter!
I can only wish things around here were at least 1/4 as eventful, good, bad, and all.
(As if they ever were.)
All the possibilities can be so entertaining when the finances are there to back them up.
Sorry to hear about Jesse. Unfortunately it sounds as though that's best for everyone. Life often has ways of moving on, in it's own ways, whether we like it, or not.
As the Preacher's Kid, I had keys to the church, and spent many, happy, solitary hours playing the piano or organ. As Dad was promoted up through the Conference, each successive assignment was a bigger congregation, with a bigger building, and, of course, a larger organ.
I went from a "double deck" Hammond up through a four course Wurlitzer. You'd be surprised how LOUD those things can be when no one else is around!
Thank You for this Awesome story, Sheep, Buddy!
Keep Smilin'!!
Chaz
Here is a V/80 WurliTzer. I think Wulitzer never made anything bigger that a 5 manual 28 rank, but there seems to be a competition to see who can make the largest from accumulated bits and pieces. Scott's virtual theatre pipe organ is only IV/50 with 4 unified ranks of pipe organ attached, well just because he can!
Glad to have you back. There won't be many more chapters. I have another written but prefer to not post anymore until I've finished writing because it could complicate things
It was always my intention to finish it. I didn't have any idea the short story would turn into a novel, about the size of 4 or 5 novels Ugh
