The Day My Life Began II

A New Beginning – Life With My Two Boys

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2005-2008 by the author

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

DEDICATION

In Loving Memory To:
Ashton Cody Sanchez
Jan 5, 1989 to June 29, 2002

This chapter is dedicated to my late son Cody. His bright smile and infectious laugh is gone but not forgotten. I feel his presence every time I sit down to the computer.

Bryce came back in and snuggled next to me and said. "Terry said to see her tomorrow after school and we can work out a schedule. I told her it would be easier if I had day shifts and she said she would take care of things."

The rest of the evening passed without further comment about tomorrow. I had to admit though, I wasn't quite sure how things were going to go and I didn't want Bryce getting upset. I felt if things were taken slow and his father explained things gently, Bryce would understand. This kid does have a head on his shoulders. Only tomorrow know what's in store.

Chapter 8

Once a Boy, Now a Man

I slept soundly and because I had to work only a half day today, I could sleep in until 7 or so. I would pick Bryce up at school and take him to the station so he could get his schedule. I heard the phone ring once then stop. I rolled over thinking it was a wrong number but Bryce got it after the solo ring. He was talking to Terry about his schedule and she had asked him if he wanted to put in a few hours this afternoon which he gladly accepted. He quickly went upstairs and changed his clothes and put on his uniform. He and Jimmy walked out the door and headed to the bus stop for their final day of class. Several girls thought he was "hot" in is uniform while a couple of boys tried giving him a hard time.

Jimmy had already worked things out with Davey on what they were going to do when school got out today. Jimmy would catch the bus with Davey and head over to his house for a few hours before their outing tonight.
I tried to go back to sleep but my bladder wouldn't allow that so I decided to rise and shine. I had poured my first cup of coffee when the phone rang. It was Terry telling me that Bryce would be working from 12:30 until 5 and could I see he gets to the station. I informed her I would, then proceeded to finish reading the morning paper along with my coffee.

By the time I finished my last cup of coffee, it was almost 10:30 so I decided to get ready for work. I went upstairs and laid out a clean uniform shirt and put all the necessary hardware in its proper place. I turned on the shower and then got clean underwear and proceeded to get clean. I was about half finished when I suddenly realized that there wasn't someone else in here with me. This had been almost a daily routine since Bryce had arrived and I suddenly realized I missed presence.

I thought to myself, ‘Man Mark, you have it bad. This kid has really got a hold on your heart. Have you taken leave of your senses? Shit man, he's only a kid. Yeah, a 15 year old who knows what he wants. How can this be handled so everyone gets what they want without getting hurt?’

That was the million dollar question. I thought and thought about it until I was ready to walk out the door when an idea hit me like a ton of bricks. ‘Yes, that it! That's the perfect solution and if the cards are played just right, everyone would be a winner.’

I had a smile on my face as I closed the door to the house and got into the Ram to pick up Bryce for his first day of work. I thought a little more until I pulled into the school parking lot just as the kids were coming out for the summer.

Just as Bryce opened the door, Davey and Jimmy came running up to the truck. The boys told me they would walk home from Davey's so they could get ready for their evening out with Chris, Trey and the others. I told them that he would call the house around 5:30 and they said they would be there as they headed for the bus.

I called 521 to advise them that I would be at the station in about 15 minutes so Bryce would not have to miss any calls.

When we arrived, Terry took Bryce into her office and took his picture so she could issue him his ID card that every person was required to wear on their uniform at all times. I went out to my unit and took mine off the visor and clipped it to my collar just as the ambulance pulled into the parking lot. Terry issued Bryce his pager so he and every other member would know what was happening in case there was a need for extra personnel when they were away from the station.

As Bryce was heading out to meet the crew, the alarm sounded. He gave me a quick hug then jumped into the back of the rig and was off on his first call. I heard the dispatch and it was only a minor injury so his first call would be routine. I knew it would be only a matter if time before he had his baptism by fire.

I was sitting inside chatting with Terry when she asked if Bryce would be staying in the states or heading back "down under?" The question took me by surprise and I asked her, "Why do you ask?"

She smiled and said, "He's a neat kid Mark who really loves you more that you may even realize and I would hate to see him be torn away from you by a person he doesn’t even know."

I took a gulp of my soda and swallowed hard. What was she seeing that I wasn't? Were things that noticeable to others as they appear to be to her? Shit, what have I done?" I asked her "What do you mean, girl?"

She laughed and said, "Quiet, mate! Don't 'ave a 'eart attack on me now. I see how he lights up when your name is mentioned and to quite honest, I've tried to 'it on him meself but he wouldn't give me a go. We're mates and all but I've also figured out he's gay. Don't worry Mark, I know you would never hurt the lad and no one will know, at least not from me. I also told Bryce that and he said he would not light up so bright when he hears your name."

As soon as I was able to coax my heart from my throat, I spoke. "Shit girl, next time hit me with an engine. The least you could have done was tell me this at home and not in the station. I just don't want to lose him."

We finished chatting then I heard a page for a multiple vehicle accident so I decided to hit the streets. The voice said, "Rescue 16, Second ambulance call, Rescue 9 assist, Squad 9. Holland and Plaza. Multiple vehicle accident with injuries. Possible entrapment. Priority one. Time 1306. Rescue 16, Second ambulance call Rescue 9 assist, Squad 9. Holland and Plaza. Multiple vehicle accident with injuries. Possible entrapment. Priority one. Time 1306."

I was listening to the call when I heard, "521 we're less than a mile from the scene, we'll handle for Rescue 16. 10-4 521, I'll send you the call. Rescue 9 you can 10-19 (cancel your response). The voice said over the radio. "Also, dispatch, 521 is clear from our last call with the patient refusing transport."

I thought, ‘He's had the training, passed all the exams and did well on practical exercises. Now is the time Bryce will either sink or swim.’

I heard Dave tell the dispatcher that he would take command so I knew there was a friendly face should he freeze. I went on about my business and let them handle things. I would get a report later if something happened.

I was near the hospital so I decided to see if things were still on for tonight. As I was heading to his room, I saw Neil leaving. "Hey man, what's up?"

He smiled and said "Look at these" as he handed me a file folder. I opened and my eyes wanted to fly out of my head.

Bryce's father was all I had heard he was and more. It seems his projects had done very well and if handled properly would allow Bryce to live very comfortably.

I entered his room and saw him watching the tube. "Afternoon Tom," I said trying to remain upbeat. "Are we still on for tonight?" I asked. Hoping we were. Then Tom dropped his little bomb shell.

"You bet mate, we are." He replied. "I'd like to have a few words with you alone if that's alright, first?

I looked at my watch to see what time is was and it read 1:30. It was a slow day so I decided to call in and take the rest of the afternoon off. My boss didn't have a problem with it and he said to keep the Ram until 5:00 in case there was an emergency. I looked at Tom and said. "I have the rest of the day off. I'm going to get myself something to drink and come back up here so we can talk. Is there something I can get for you?" He told me he wanted a large soda so I got him that while I was getting myself one.

It took me about 15 minutes to go to the cafeteria and get back to his room. I pulled up a chair and Tom began to tell me what he knew about Bryce. It seemed he know quite about the boy even though he had never met him personally.

Tom began speaking. "I know quite a bit about the lad even though we've never been properly introduced to him. I always knew where his mother lived and as he grew, I would secretly watch the lad play with his mates. When he was in school, I would go there to see him and I must admit I was a bit jealous that I wasn't a part of his life. By the time he was eight, he had a striking resemblance to me and I'm glad he still does. By the time he was eleven, I wondered why he never had the Shelia's hanging onto him but I was quite shy meself when I was his age so I never gave it much thought. One day when he was twelve, I saw him and friend go into the woods and I did something that opened my eyes about my son. Now, don't get me wrong Mark. What I did was wrong but it has given me a better insight into my son's background."

"The two lads went into a very secluded spot and began undressing each other. Well, I won't go into details but I knew then that Bryce was different of the other lads. I also knew if the other blokes found out about his secret, they could make his life a living hell." Tom stopped speaking and took a drink of his soda.

I had to coax my heart back out of my throat because it was racing a mile a minute and suddenly I was afraid that he was going to try to take him away from me. I looked at him and said. "Tom, it's not uncommon for boys that age to experiment with each other. So how do you know it wasn't a passing fancy?"

Tom took another sip then continued. "They had met each other for about four months until his parents left for Queensland and Bryce was devastated. It seemed like he'd lost all interest in everything. Shortly after that, his mum decided to come back to the states. I had a friend here so I had him try to keep and eye on them and that's how I learned she had died. I also found out that the foster family he was living with was into drugs and you became his new foster parent. I do have to say, he seems very well adjusted and happy. He's seems more interested in school than he's ever been and I'm glad he has decided on a career with the fire brigade, although I will worry about him.

I finally regained my composure and was able to think again. "Are you saying that you are upset that Bryce may be gay?" I asked very honestly.

Tom thought for a second and replied. "I'll admit that was shaken by my discovery but I've had time to adjust to the idea that he may indeed be gay, although it doesn’t matter to me what he is as long as he is happy."

Suddenly there was a knock on the door. It opened and there stood Bryce in his uniform looking quite sharp. "Hi Dad, hello Mr. Collins, sir." he said.

"Hey sport." I answered. "What are you doing here?"

"We brought in that accident victim." Bryce said. The guys are having lunch. Since I ate before leaving school, I'm not hungry. So I decided to see you here. I saw the Ram outside.

"There is something I think you should know." I said to him.

"What?" Bryce asked. "Are you're going to tell me that he's my father? If that's it, I've already figured that out. We are the spitting image of each other."

I never could accuse him of being slow. "Well yes son, you're right. This is your father."

Bryce walked over to the man and gave him a hug. "Why didn't you try to see me when I was younger?"

Tom took a sip of his drink to clear his throat. "Well son,” he started. “It wasn't for me not wanting too but your mum said she didn't want me in your life. I hadn't been all that good a father when you were younger but I did try to provide for you. You see lad, your mum was a proud woman and wanted to make a go of it on her own. I respected he wishes, but I'm sorry I didn't stand up more for myself so I could see you. I've been regretting that decision every day of my life." Tom paused for a second before continuing. "No son, I not going to try to take you away from Mark. I know he's done well for you and I know you two love each other quite a lot so I won't do that to either of you."

Bryce started to speak when his field instructor called him on the radio saying they had to get back on the street.

I told Bryce that we would came back here tonight and visit after we had dinner downstairs in the cafeteria. He gave us both a kiss and headed for the elevator.

Tom had to wipe his eyes after getting his kiss from Bryce. I knew that that was probably the first kiss he had ever received from him so I didn't say anything. Besides, what could I say? He was, after all, his father.

When I stood to kiss Bryce back, I noticed he had started to sprout wood in his pants. This was also seen by Tom and I was afraid that he was going to say something to that effect, but he didn't.

We continued chatting and when I looked up at the clock, I suddenly realized that we had been talking for over two hours. I had to get myself in gear and get the boys ready for their night out with Chris, Trey and his friends. I told Tom that we would be back around 7 or so and he said that he couldn't wait to talk with Bryce some more.

I took the Ram back to the station and went to pick up Jimmy and Davey. On my way back to the station, Trey called me on my cell phone to asked if things were still on for tonight and I said they were. We got home about 4:45 and the boys went and took their shower so they would be ready when Trey arrived.

Just as I was about to head upstairs, the phone rang and it was Trey asking if he could pick the boys up in about 15 minutes rather than wait until six. Just as I was about to answer him, Jimmy and Davey came running downstairs dressed and ready to go. I told Trey it was fine to come and get them.

I told the boys Trey was on his way over and to let me know when he arrived so I knew they were leaving. I headed upstairs and began to get undressed so I could take a shower. I set out clean clothes and turned on the shower just as Jimmy came bounding into the room. He told me Trey was here and they were leaving. I told him I expected the two of them to behave themselves because Trey had permission to punish them as he saw fit if they didn't. Jimmy's eyes got big when he heard that but what he didn't know was I hadn't said anything like that to Trey.

Jimmy gave me a hug and kiss before he went out to Trey's car and he said they would be good. I took my uniform off and stepped into the shower. Just as I began to wash my hair, I felt two arms wrap around my waist. I opened my eyes to see my beautiful Bryce standing there in all is glory. I also felt his manhood standing proudly at attention. Mine was soon in a similar state.

Bryce took over soaping my body with his very talented hands making sure to clean every nook and cranny spotless. As soon as he hit the crack of my ass, I let out a little moan. When his finger probed my pucker, I shuddered. He gently inserted his finger and found my magic button. Bryce stroked my prostate with his finger as his other stroked my meat and soon had me exploding against the shower wall. Bryce quickly wrapped his arms around my waist so I didn't fall on my ass and began to probe my mouth with his tongue.

When I regained my composure, I rinsed my self off and decided to return the favor to my beautiful god. I started on his hair stopping only to allow him the chance to rinse the shampoo out. I then washed his chest paying attention to his cute dark brown nipples. When I would come in contact with one, he would close his eyes and suck in air. I slid my hands around to his back and washed that along with his shoulders. When he rinsed off, I did his legs and feet allowing him ample time to make sure all the soap was gone before he set a foot back on the floor. I lathered my hands and washed his gorgeous manhood. This was the first time that I allowed myself to touch his dick. It was hard as steel yet soft as a newborn baby's behind. I slid his foreskin back and carefully cleaned his purple head. As soon as I touched it, I felt him shudder and moan in approval to the ministrations I was giving him. Next, I soaped his muscular behind and gently washed his buttocks. I then slipped a finger inside coming in contact with his pink pucker. As soon as I came into contact with his hole, it seemed to open as if it had a mind of its own and pull my finger inside. My right index finger was gently snaking its way inside when I felt Bryce's prostate. At first contact, Bryce moaned and my left hand reached for his rod and I gently began to stroke his boy toy and massage his love button. Soon, Bryce was rocking back and forth in time to my stroking and pushing. Within a few minutes, I sensed Bryce beginning to tense telling me of his impending release. I eased off on massaging his prostate and allowed things to ease off a little but he would have none of that. He would thrust his butt back onto my finger as I pumped on his tool demanding its release. I granted him his wish. I push my finger deeper into his hole and pumped for all I was worth.

Bryce let out a loud moan then I felt him shudder releasing his first jet blast of hot male love juice. Two, three four powerful blasts came out of his tool. Then he had three more less powerful shots followed by a small drool of creamy liquid. I removed my finger from his hole and wrapped my arm around his waist, returning the favor he gave me only minutes earlier. I let him rinse the soap off his now deflating stick and I held him tightly as he returned to earth from his mind blowing orgasm and I rinsed off his smooth buttocks and his pucker.

"Man, what a rush," Bryce said with a grin from ear to ear. "I've never had a cum like that before. Not even when Jimmy and Davey did it. You have very talented fingers Mark. Thank you."

With that, he sent his tongue exploring for my tonsils. If they hadn't been removed when I was five, he would have done the job on the spot.

We both rinsed off again and stepped out of the shower and got dried. I looked at the clock on the night stand and it read 6:15 PM. I looked at Bryce and said. "We better shake a leg because we don't want to keep your father waiting.

We dressed quickly and were out the door heading off to the hospital. It only took five minutes to get there so we had plenty of time to go and eat before we went up to the third floor to Tom's room.

I bought Tom a large soda on our way out of the cafeteria. For a hospital, the food wasn't all that bad. A person could survive if they had to. We exited the elevator and were soon in front of Tom's door. Bryce knocked before we entered. I handed Bryce the drink and he carried it over to his father and set it on his table giving him a hug.

We sat down and Tom looked at Bryce with about as much love as I had for the boy. He had managed to take a few photographs of him without his knowledge and Bryce was surprised to see them.

When he a younger, he was a mop topped kid who stayed covered on only the necessary places. I had to laugh because Bryce look a lot different now than he did back then although he manages to keep himself tanned.

"How was your day son?" Tom asked his son once he regained his composure.

Bryce smiled as the word son registered in his head. "Not bad for my first day." He shuffled through the pictures his father had handed him and then all of a sudden he swallowed hard.

We both noticed this and Tom asked. "What's wrong, son?"

Bryce just sat there staring at the photograph. Soon tears started to roll down his face.

Tom slid over to Bryce and looked at the picture that caused his son to totally break down. Then he did something that took me by surprise. He lifted his son up and sat him on his lap and rocked him as if he were a new born baby. "Ssshh, now son," He whispered. "It's alright. I know he was your best mate. That's why I've held onto this photo so long."

Bryce just stayed there in his father's arms and let all his emotions roll from his body. He must have laid there for at least fifteen minutes without saying a word.

Then he looked up as his father whispered into his ear. "I know you two had something very special." Tom said.

"Bu bu but how do you know?" Brice stammered.

Tom took a sip of his drink then a long deep breath. Then he began to explain to his son how he knew. "Well son, it's like this. I'd been secretly watching you for several months at school and I saw you two becoming real pals. I would see you to sneak off into the woods after class some days and I began to wonder what you were up to.

At first, I thought you were having a smoke until I went down to the creek after you two left but I didn't see any signs of cigarettes. Then I thought you may have been skinny dipping but the water was still a little cold for that. So one day I decided to follow you two just to see what you were doing."

Bryce shifted on Tom's lap as he took another sip of his soda then continued speaking to his son. "I found a spot where I could see you but not be seen. Mind you, I'm not proud of the fact I went spying on you. I thought you were, well I didn't know what you were doing. But, when I saw you two holding each other, I had a pretty good idea."

When Bryce heard this, he broke down again. Like before, Tom held him while he cried. After another ten minutes, Bryce looked up at him and spoke almost snapping at him. "You hate me now, don't you? Come on admit it, you hate me."

Tom put his finger over Bryce's lips and said, "Sush that noise right this minute. I don't hate you."

"Yeah, right," Bryce shot back.

I had to speak up after that. "Bryce! First of all, you don't talk like that to an adult. Next, you didn't even get to hear what he was going to say before you interrupted. Now give him a chance to finish telling you every thing he has to say. Understand?"

Bryce nodded his head and whispered "Sorry, dad."

Tom began to speak again. "Lad, do you think you were the first boy to ever experiment with a person of the same sex? While Bryce was shaking his head, his father continued. I happen to know first hand that you're not. The reason I know is this, I did it to when I was your age and there is nothing to be ashamed of."

Bryce looked at his father not wanting to believe what he was saying at first. But there was something in his father's eyes that told him he wasn't lying. "Would it matter if I liked boys instead of girls?"

Tom looked at him and asked. "Are you happy with who you are?"

He had to think about that for a minute or two before answering. "Yes sir, I am."

"Then, what you are isn't important. It's who you are, that is the only thing." Tom said smiling.

"Would you have any objections to Mark adopting me?" Bryce asked.

"Not at all," Tom replied. "I'll even go to court with you two and give the judge my blessing."

He hugged his father and once again he started to cry. This time it was tears of happiness and relief. Tom brought his lips to Bryce's ear and with his eyes looking straight at me said. "I would, however, wait until you were a year or two older before you two become involved physically. Besides, it wouldn't surprise me if you were crawling into bed with Mark at night."

This time I was sputtering. How could he have figured all that out? I guess it was the same way Terry did. "Well then, I guess I should start the ball rolling and get hold of my lawyer to get the papers filed." I said.

Tom spoke up again. "In Australia, the age of consent is 15 unlike here where it's 18."

What I had thought of earlier that day came back to me. "Tom, I have the perfect solution to this situation." When I made this statement, Bryce had a puzzled look on his face. "Don't worry son, I know this will work and you will be happy."

Bryce was still lost. I could see it on his face when I said. "Tom, I'll talk to you later if that's alright with you?"

"Not a problem," Tom answered. "I'll be here for another day or two."

"When you are ready to be discharged, you can stay with us. Is that agreeable with you?"

Tom thought for a minute then said. "I accept, that is very gracious of you."

I looked at my watch and it read 8:55 PM. Visiting hours are over at 9 so we decided to head on home. "Let me know when you can leave and I'll come pick you up. Visiting hours are over in five minutes so we should get going."

We said our fare well's and Bryce gave his father a hug and kiss before he would leave the room. As we were waiting for the elevator I began to wonder how Jimmy and Davey behaved. As we stepped into the elevator, I felt Bryce's arm slip around my waist. I felt his arm gently squeeze me and I looked down into his eyes.

He looked up at me with both love and confusion. I kissed him on the forehead as the doors opened to the lobby. We walked out to the truck and I said. "What's wrong, son?"

"Nothing Pop," he started. "I just can't figure this out. He acts like he really missed me all these years but he never tried to find me until now. It just doesn't make sense."

When we reached the Ram and I got in, I fastened my seatbelt and said. "Sure it does son. Your father loves you very much. He knew you were safe and sound here in the states with me. Then when he saw you for himself, he knew he made the right decision to let you stay. Sure, he spied on you but he was worried that you might be doing something a boy your age shouldn't have. He say you and your friend starting to make out so he left. He didn't need to know the details nor did he want to. He has totally accepted you for who you are and still loves you. That's why he's letting me adopt you. Now does this make sense?"

Bryce was quiet for a while mulling all this over in his head. I could even see the gears grinding away in his head. He turned his head to me and said. "Yeah, pop. I finally do. It took me a while to put everything together but I finally realize where he is coming from. You know something? I really love him. Not like I love you, but I do."

"I know what you mean, son." I said. There are all different types of love. I'm glad you have come to terms with this."

He looked at me and asked. "Now, what were you two talking about earlier in at the hospital?"

Shaking my head, I replied. "Sorry son, I'm not saying until I have all my ducks in a row. If I told you and things didn't work out, I don't want you getting upset." On the way home, I called Neil at home and made an appointment for Monday so I could put my plan in motion.

Bryce didn't like this but he did accept it. I could see he was pouting a little but I wasn't going to give in to him. Like I told him, I didn't want his hopes getting up if anything were to do wrong.

As we pulled into the driveway, Trey was dropping my other two off. "Well boys, I see you aren't tied to the top of the car so you must have behaved yourselves." I said winking to Trey.

"Yeah wed did dad," Jimmy said looking into his eyes. "Huh, tie us to the roof of the car? You wouldn't have done that, would you Trey?"

"Well now?" Trey said, scratching his chin. "Let's just say it was a good thing you two behaved and my rope was back at home." He rubbed his arm when Davey punched him.

"I'm hurt!" Jimmy said pouting letting his lower lip stock out some to add to his expression.

Trey unfastened his seat belt, opened the door and flew out chasing Davey playfully as the boy squealed in delight. Soon Jimmy was chasing after Trey. Bryce wasn't going to be left out in the fun and he took off after Jimmy. After a few minutes of running, squealing and panting, the two little monsters were being carried over the shoulders of Trey and Bryce and all you could see was their legs kicking wildly in the air. Chris decided the safest place to stay was in the car when I heard both boys saying, "Lemme down, lemme down!"

I couldn't resist the temptation of smacking their backsides a couple of times each. The older of me three then proceeded to dump his little parcel gently on the ground as Davey looked over to Jimmy saying, "Thanks moron, and popped Jimmy on the arm."

Jimmy jumped up and started chasing Davey saying "who you calling a moron, nit wit!" And the race was on again. Soon I had two monsters running around the front lawn like a couple of funny farm rejects. As they ran past me, I scooped each one up in an arm and held onto the pair as they continued to exchange pleasantries with each other.

"See what I have to put up with?" I said to Trey with a smile on my face. He just stood there nodding his head in agreement and he took a turn at swatting the boy’s behinds before heading back over to his car to get Chris home.

He started his car and they both waved good bye as they drove off. I carried the two wiggle worms into the house and dumped them on the couch. I looked at them in a mock frown saying. "Well, that sure was a nice way to impress a guest. Now he'll be thinking I'm raising two uncouth children who don't have manners."

Bryce was standing there with his arms folded across his chest shaking his head. He said "Crikey, pop! The lot of them ought to be dumped down the dunney."

Jimmy started to jump off the couch at Bryce when I pushed him back down and "alright boys, time to settle down."

I reached down and scooped Jimmy up into my arms and gave him a hug letting him know that he was forgiven. He just gave me that devilish grim he always does to worm himself back into my good graces. I gave him a kiss on his cheek and told them it was time to settle down and get ready for bed.

"Aw dad," Jimmy wined in my ear. "It's still early. Do we really have to do to bed yet?"

I looked him into the eyes and replied. "Ok, you don't have to go to bed but you do have to get into your night clothes."

He wiggled down and the two of them were up the stairs like a shot and came back down carrying their robes wearing only a smile as they settled down on the couch to watch some television. I went up to my room and got into my sweat pants and Bryce came back down wearing only his robe and joined me on my recliner for a little snuggle and cuddle. We found a movie on HBO and unwound from the evening's activities.

After the movie went off, I noticed two boys sound asleep on the couch with their arms wrapped around each other. I gently unwrapped Jimmy from Davey and carried him upstairs while Bryce got Davey. We tucked them into bed, covered them and gave each one a kiss good night. As I was closing the door, I heard the boys mumble in unison saying "good night, dad. Good night brother."

We each returned their "good nights" and headed back downstairs to make sure everything was off and secured before we went to bed. After doing our nightly ministrations, I slid into bed then Bryce spooned himself against my chest. I kissed him good night and turned the night light off and drifted off to dream land.

The next day being a Saturday, I had the day off so this old man could sleep in. That was until my bladder started its usual morning rendition of the "I'm Fixen to Wet Your Blues" and made me get up to see it didn't happen less I drown Bryce. Then I would get of ribbing that I soon wouldn't forget. Once that was taken care of, I smelled coffee courtesy of my setting it up the night before. It was taking hold of my nose and leading me magically down the stairs and into the kitchen.

I poured a cup of my liquid wake up juice and retrieved the newspaper from the front porch. I had a cup of that liquid elixir before my two rejects from the funny farm came bounding down the stairs to greet me.

"Morning Dad," Jimmy said heading for the pantry. He grabbed the box of Frosted Flakes while Davey got two bowls from the cabinet.

I looked over the newspaper and say what they were eating and thought ‘Great, when the sugar hits them they will be bouncing off the walls wound up tighter than an eight day clock.’

"Morning boys," I replied. "Did to two manage to magically get some manners while you slept?"

Davey was the first to fall for the dangling hook I set in front of them. "Yes, pop. We got manners. Wait a minute. We always have manners."

Oh, then what was last nights display?" I asked. Your version of How to Win Friends and Influence People?

"No!" Davey said trying to defend himself. "You started it when you said Trey could tie us on the roof. But you should have seen us last night at the restaurant. We were perfect gentlemen."

Bryce heard this while coming into the kitchen and couldn't resist getting in on the act by saying. "That's only because they didn't know you as well as we do otherwise they would have seen through the act you were putting on."

"Oh, come on." Jimmy said pouting. "You are making us look like we are always messing up."

I could see that they were starting to take this too literally so I brought it to an end. "Ok boys, settle down. We are only picking on you. We know you really aren't bad kids. But I have to admit that you are very gullible."

They looked up at me and realized they had been had. Jimmy was standing near me and I pulled him on to my lap and hugged him saying. "Did you two have a good time last night?"

Jimmy finally smiled and said. "Yes we did. Mrs. Wells said we could have what ever we wanted and it was on the house."

"Oh great," I said smiling at them. "There goes their profits for the month. Haven't you heard the nick-names the manager at the Corral has given you two? He calls you two Hoover and Kirby" (Named after two vacuum cleaners). Jimmy was pouting again. He knew he couldn't argue that point. They both were walking steam shovels when it came to food. Bryce was no slouch in that department. When we go to a regular restaurant, my credit card chokes sputters and hic-cups before the company finally gives then an authorization number to complete the transaction.

When breakfast and picking was done, we went into the living room when I heard the phone ring. It was Tom and it seems he was being discharged. He said he would go back to the hotel if it was too soon for him to come over. "Nonsense," I said. "I'll be there is a few minutes."

I went to pick Tom up while I had boys change Bryce's bed and cleaned up his room a bit. Then Bryce said "Dad, have you lost your mind? You want him to know you and I sleep together in the same bed. He'll hate me for sure."

"Relax," I said heading towards the door. "Don't you remember what he said last night? He doesn’t care as long as you are happy. Besides, what makes you think anything will happen while he's here? Even though he understands how things are, it doesn't mean we would do anything while he's here in our home. I will show respect to our guest."

While we were on our way back home we had a chance to discuss my idea for Bryce. We talked about all the pros and cons but decided it was worth the chance. We even figured out what the worst case scenario would be. I took the long way home on purpose so we could have plenty of time to talk but I forgot about two boys that would want meet their newest brother's father.

As I pulled into the driveway, two rascals came running out of the house like their pants were on fire. We managed to exit the Ram before being on the receiving end of twenty questions. I corralled my boy while Tom got Davey then we headed for the house. As I sat Jimmy down on his feet I said. "Don't you two have any manners or did you lose them last night?"

Davey was still on Tom's shoulder when he felt a semi-sharp sting to his butt. "Hey, cut that out! This isn't funny."

Tom set him down and looked up at him thinking he was the guilty party. That was until he saw Bryce standing behind him and tried to run at him.

I stepped in front of the boys and while corralling then again said, "Alright you two. I know you can behave even if it's only for a few minutes at a time."

"Crikey," Tom said. "You got your hands full with the lot of them, don't you?"

I nodded and smiled then said. "It's not that bad. I wouldn't give this crew up for the world, even though I have to ask myself if I haven't lost my mind."

I was just about to say something to them again when the room suddenly began to smell like rotten eggs when Bryce spoke up saying, "Damn, what crawled inside you and died or didn't you make it to the dunny in time?"

Davey followed suit holding his nose and saying "shit dude!! No more lobster for you. You're rank!"

Jimmy was just standing there with a big shit eating grin on his face saying "you know what they say about pay backs, don't you?"

I had to go into the family room on that. Tom was right behind me when I said to the boys "why don't you three go out and play for a while?" When they left, Tom and I ironed out a few more details about our appointment on Monday.

The rest of the weekend went by quickly and quietly, thank God. Before I knew it, it was time to see Neil. Tom and I headed over to his office hoping we could get this fast tracked on the docket. Since Tom was willing to give his blessing to us, the judge may agree also.

Neil was waiting when we arrived and we headed to the conference room. I laid out what I wanted and Tom stated he was in agreement. Neil got his secretary to change a few things on the paper work he uses to fast track an adoption and had them printed out for our signatures. "All right Neil, now go and earn the big bucks I'm paying you."

Neil just shook his head and looked up to the ceiling. We shook hands and returned home. It would be a few days before we knew one way or another when the case would be heard.

On Thursday, I received a call from Neil on my cell phone telling me the case was on the docket for Monday morning at 10 AM. "Shit!" I thought. "I have to wait another weekend but now I can at least tell Bryce what my plan is going to be." I decided to wait until Friday before I told Bryce so he would be able to work with out having this on his mind.

Friday night, I decided to take everyone out to dinner and tell Bryce and the boys what Tom and I had been working on. Neil said that since he saw the case on the fast track docket we stood a very good chance to get my plan approved.

We arrived at the restaurant and the three of them were acting like their feet were on fire as we headed to our table. After I order drinks for everyone I began to speak. "I know you are all wondering what Tom and I have been up to with regards to Bryce. Over the past few months, I have come to realize a few things. The first of which is that I do indeed love Bryce very much. Next, Bryce is way ahead of himself in school which means he will be able to graduate a full year early. I'm sure you all know what career he wishes to chose and I do support him in this. If things stay on track as they are now, Bryce will be able to enter the Fire Academy when he is 17."

The drinks arrived so I stopped where I was and we were ready to place our order. When the waiter left, I continued where I left off. "Seeing that Bryce will only be 17, the Academy would make him wait a full year before he could enter. But I'm not willing to wait a year to see this happen. So what I decided and Tom agreed to as well, is for me not to adopt Bryce."

Jimmy almost choked on his soda and Bryce suddenly went pale. Jimmy said " Bu bu bu but Dad, why? Don't you want Bryce to be your son and my brother?"

I looked at Jimmy and smiled saying "I don't need a piece of paper to tell me that." Then I turned to Bryce and said "Son, in order for you to be able to go to the Fire Academy at 17, you need to be an adult in the eyes of the law. So here is the plan. Instead of adopting you, I am asking the court to emancipate you."

"Eminceawho?" Jimmy said.

I laughed a little and replied "emancipate. It means to make an adult. See boys when this happens, Bryce will be an adult in the eyes of the law. He has the right to make up his own mind and he doesn’t need my permission. As a 17 year old adult, he would even be able to get married on his own."

Bryce was letting all this digest. I don't think he was expecting this but after a few minutes he suddenly began to smile. He gave me his wicked smile and I had a very good idea of what he was thinking about too. "Pop, I think I already know the answer to this but I just have to ask it anyway. I can still stay where I'm at, right?"

"Do you really think I need to answer that, son?" I said smiling. He shook his hand and I said "I didn't think so."

When the chow hounds finished eating everything in sight, we all headed back to the house. As soon as we entered the house, Jimmy and Davey headed upstairs like their pants were on fire. I looked up just as they were about to come down in their usual evening wear. "Hold it boys." I said. "Not with company and I don't care what Tom says this time. Now scoot!" They returned wearing their Speedos. I just shook my head because I knew I was beat. I never told them what to put on but something had to worn. I went and changed into my usual and so did Bryce. When I hit me recliner, I was soon joined by my love. He snuggled close and he pulled my right arm over his shoulder to his chest and he held my left hand in his. After a few minutes of this, I looked into his eyes and said "are you happy, son?" He just pulled my arm tighter on to his chest so I knew his answer.

After the news went off, I turned off the television and locked the doors. Jimmy and Davey were already asleep so Bryce and I each carried one up to bed. We said good night to Tom and Bryce gave his father a hug and kiss before coming into our room. We each did our nightly ministrations and were soon ready for bed.

When Bryce came to bed, he rolled over to face me then began to speak. "Dad, does this also mean what I think it does?" He looked deep into my eyes and he could tell by what he saw, that the answer was yes. He slid his arm under my pillow and scooted closer to me so he could embrace me. He looked deep into my eyes and said "I love you very much Dad. At first I wasn't sure what you were saying but after listening closely, I understood every word you said. I felt his hand inching closer to my groin and I put my hand on his and stopped his progress. He knew what I was telling him even though I hadn't spoke.

I did, however, kiss him deep before turning the light off. Bryce spooned himself against me and we were both soon drifting off to sleep.

This had to be one of the longest weekends in my life. Jimmy and Davey were really showing off and on more than one occasion I was ready to hang them both by their feet until they were twenty one. Tom was enjoying their antics. "I can arrange it that you can take those two back to Australia with you." I said with a straight face.

About thirty seconds after I said that Jimmy suddenly realized what I said and he pouted out of the room.

Monday finally arrived and none too soon for me. Davey asked if he could come also so Dave brought his suit over so he would be properly dressed for court. I hadn't slept that well Sunday night and was awake at 5:30. I turned onto my side and watched Bryce as he slept and the thought of not having him in my life suddenly filled my head. I slid my arm under his pillow as he roiled over facing me. I wrapped my other arm around him and held him like I did many times with Jimmy.

We must have lied like that for half an hour until the alarm went off in my bladder. I gently uncoupled myself from Bryce and went into the bathroom to answer natures call when then I felt a pair of arms wrap around my waist. As soon as I shook of the last drops off my tool, I was spun around and kissed very passionately and suddenly I was very turned on. "Slow down tiger." I whispered in his ear.

"God Mark," Bryce said back. "I want you bad. Please?"

I was losing the battle with my conscience. I turned on the shower and said "Alright, you win." Bryce used the toilet to relieve himself and I checked to see what time it was. The clock read 6:15 AM. We had 45 minutes before the rest of them would be getting up and ready for court.

As soon as I stepped into the shower my mouth was attacked again. Bryce was very passionate. His hand began rubbing my low back and butt cheeks. I began to play with his nipples and as I touch one, I felt him suck air.

Bryce continued his assault on my tongue as I reached for the soap to begin lathering him. He final broke his lip lock and I began soaping his back and shoulders. I had him lathered in record time and then went to work cleaning his pucker. As soon as my finger grazed it, his dick jumped as if he had been shocked. I felt it relax so I gently eased it inward. With my other hand, I took hold of his member and slowly began to stroke.

He leaned back against me as I worked his member in my hand. After a few minutes, Bryce was bucking backwards onto my finger and each time my finger hit his prostate, he would moan. I had to clamp my mouth over his so he wouldn't wake the rest of the house. Faster and faster I stroked his tool and then with one backward thrust, he impaled himself on my finger and blew his wad. One, two three, four, five shots of man juice. I braced myself so I could hold his weight while the final squirts drooled from his now deflating manhood. I removed the finger from him and lifted my mouth off his so he could talk more clearly. Unbeknownst to me during this tryst, I had shot off myself without any coaxing from Bryce. My love juice was slowing rolling down the side of his leg.

"Ummm," Bryce moaned. "Man that was the best ever he hissed into my mouth. I think yours was too wasn't it?"

I couldn't deny that fact. "You are one hot kid, you know that? Now here's another news flash for you. I love you."

Bryce was lost in both lust and love. He handed the soap to me and I quickly washed. It seems we allowed enough time for ourselves, but not enough hot water. "Shit!" I heard Bryce yelp. "That's cold. I'm out of here."

I did a quick rinse job myself and the water was off. I grabbed the towels and we quickly got dried and warm.

We got ourselves dressed and headed down stairs. "Muuum," Bryce said as his nose smelled the liquid wake up juice. "I'll take a cup too, please?"

"Sure thing," I said as I get extra cups out so Tom could have some when he came downstairs.

Tom was down just as I had set the put back onto the coffee maker. Then we all heard "OH SHIT! Fuck! Damn it!" Bryce was rolling when he heard Jimmy and Davey run out of hot water. I was snickering also.

Shortly, down came the two Eskimos. "Who used all the hot water?" Jimmy asked. I was fixing coffee and Bryce was getting their cereal bowls down out of the cabinet so no one answered. I felt a punch on my arm and Bryce did also. Bryce shot Davey a look that said "cool it, now."

Everyone was starting to get a bit edgy so I had to clam things down. "Alright now everyone settle down. Jimmy, sorry about the hot water. Bryce, I know you're starting to wonder how things will go in court but you guys don't need to be getting wild."

We got breakfast finished without any further incidents and at 9:30, we were out the door. Ten minutes later we were pulling onto our parking place at the courthouse. We saw Neil standing outside waiting for us.

"Morning, Mark." Neil said with a smile. "Hi Jimmy, man you've grown since I the last time I saw you."

He was trying to calm everyone down but it really wasn't work well. At 9:55, we entered the courtroom and took our places. Since there wasn't any real opposition to this, there weren't others in the room. The door to the judges chambers opened and we all stood until he took his seat.

Judge Martin signed Jimmy's adoption papers last year but that was just a formality so I didn't think he would remember me. But I was wrong. "Good morning Mr. Thomas," he said. "I see you are back again and this time it's not for a petition to adopt."

"No Your Honor, it isn't." I replied. "This is a Petition for Emancipation."

"I see. And does this young man understand the ramifications of such an undertaking?" He asked while reading Neil's brief.

Bryce stood and spoke. "Yes sir, I do. I know ir this is granted that in the eyes of the law I will be considered an adult and I will have all the responsibilities also. I further realize that should I break the law, I will be seen as an adult and not a child. I further understand that as an adult, I will have right children don't."

The judge looked at Bryce and asked. "Why do you wish to be emancipated?"

Bryce took a sip of water and began to speak. "I am a full year ahead my peers in school and will graduate when I am 17. You see sir, I want to become a fire fighter but when I graduate, I will have to wait another year until I am 18 to be able to go to the Fire Academy. As an adult I will be able to enter, provided I meet their requirements. Although I don't foresee any problems; next year, I will be able to take the Emergency Medical Technician Program at the community college. I will have to have that before the fire department will even look at my application but again I feel that I should pass."

"Where will you live and how will you provide for your financial needs?" The judge asked.

Tom suddenly spoke up. "Your Honor, if I may. I am the lads natural father. I have established a fund that Mr. Thomas will have access to so any financial need he will have may be covered. There is $100,000 dollars and it earns a fair amount of interest so money will not be a problem. Should more be required, I will be glad to provide it to them. I have provided documentation of that for you plus there is a complete statement as to why I feel this is in Bryce's best interest."

The judge sat there for several minutes studying the papers but not showing any facial expression. Then he began to speak. "I have read the statements from Mr. Collins, the biological father and Bryce's current foster father, Mr. Thomas. I also know he has adopted you, James and that both of you are doing very well since I signed those papers. While 15 is considered mature by other countries, the laws of this state do not."

When I heard those words my pucker must have suck in enough air to turn this room into a vacuum. The judge continued. "There are circumstances where by a person, when shown proper proof to judicial systems, can be emancipated. Having read all the documents and hearing from the parties here, it is the determination and order of this court that the minor child, Bryce Moore, be emancipated as of this date and he has all the rights of an adult. There is, however, one exception. He can neither purchase or consume alcohol or have the right to vote until the required age set forth by law. This court is in recess." Then judge banged his gavel. Before he left the bench he had one more thing to say. "Bryce, I wish you the very best of luck in your education to become a fire fighter. Good luck to you, young man."

After we rose to our feet, the judge exited towards his chambers. Bryce and I embraced each other tightly. Jimmy and Davey were patting him on the back then took their turns getting hugged. We headed towards to the door then stepped into the hallway. I saw Neil hand Tom an envelope and he handed Neil one in return. I watched as Tom destroyed what Neil handed him and I was wondering what was happening.

Tom handed me the trash and said. "That was your check to Neil to pay the bill. See mate, I started this ball rolling in the first place. I also had Neil look into the emancipation too. So, since I started this, it was up to me to finish the job. Neil has been paid in full and since I won't take no for an answer, you can keep your mouth closed."

Who was I to argue? Tom was right and there wasn't a thing to could do. We all shook Neil's hand then headed to our vehicle. I saw Tom climb into the far back seat and I asked him, "Why are you sitting back there? There is plenty of room here with us so come on."

Tom looked at me through the read view mirror and replied saying "No mate. Not right now. Besides, I think Jimmy and Davey have something they want you to do."

I turned around to look at Jimmy as he handed me a CD saying. "Put this in and then pause it." I did what he asked then when they told me they were ready, I pushed the play button. I heard the twang, twang, twang of the banjo then Jimmy start singing the song Love Is a Rose by Linda Ronstadt.

Davey joined in perfect harmony when Jimmy got to "Who's your love when you say the word mine?" Jimmy and Davey, Bryce and I lifted each other's hand in the air.

Love is a rose but you better not pick it,
Only grows when it's on the vine.
Handful of thorns and you know you've missed it,
Who's your love when you say the word mine?

I want to see what's never been seen,
I want to live that age old dream.
Come on boys lets go together,
Let's take the best right now, take the best right now.

Love is a rose but you better not pick it,
Only grows when it's on the vine.
Handful of thorns and you know you've missed it,
Who's your love when you say the word mine?

I want to go to an old hoedown,
Long ago in a western town.
Pick me up when my feet are dragin',
Give me a lift and I'll hail your wagon.

Love is a rose but you better not pick it,
Only grows when it's on the vine.
Handful of thorns and you know you've missed it,
Who's your love when you say the word mine?

Love is a rose but you better not pick it,
Only grows when it's on the vine.
Handful of thorns and you know you've missed it,
Who's your love when you say the word mine?

We said over and over "Who's your love when you say the word mine?" raising our hands in the air as we headed off to our life together as a larger family.

Tom decided that it was time to return to Australia so we stopped by the travel agent so he could book his return flight. There was a flight to Australia tomorrow leaving out of New York so he decided to take that flight. He made arrangements for a hotel room so he could sleep before his 24 hour journey back to the land down under. His flight to New York left a 7 in the morning so Tom said he would take a cab and not to argue. I didn't.

I made a reservation at Chris' mother's restaurant for a big blow out. I heard my credit card suck air as I was making the reservation. I had her invite Chris and all his friends so they could celebrate with us also. After the night I knew we were going to have, I was glad Tom was taking a cab. I felt I wouldn't be capable of driving at that hour anyway.

After the celebration at the restaurant, Tom drove us home and Bryce and I went straight upstairs. Bryce had a look about him I hadn't seen before. Physically we were the same but there was something else. I couldn't put my finger on it but I did like it.

When we climbed into bed, a new chapter in my life was just beginning.

To be continued ... part III

Posted: 07/18/08