The Professor and Sean II
By: Scotty
(Copyright 2006 by the author)
 

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

Chapter 30

(Ryan narrates)

Friday morning dawned bright and sunny. I awoke with Sean in my arms, his head on my chest. He was so beautiful it almost brought me to tears. Our lovemaking last night had been remarkable. For me, at least, it revealed a tenderness and a remarkable intensity at the same time, which confirmed our love for one another.

Now here in my arms was the source of my happiness and joy for living. This man, this object of my affection, had captured my mind, my heart, my soul. He brought into my gloomy and solitary life a desire to live, to be with him, to know him in the most sacred and private way. When I almost lost him, I was despondent, cheerless, and frightened. But somehow my love for him was able to travel across the chasm of his unconsciousness and he returned to me. I was certain now, more than anything else in my life, that if I were to lose him, I would die. He stirred.

I watched as he carefully opened one eye, catching sight of me in the half-light of the bedroom. He moved in a stretching sort of way, smiled at me, and ran his lips across my chest, kissing it and licking my nipples. My hands moved to his beautiful butt, which I stroked and massaged. He laughed lightly.

"I'm so happy, Hon," he told me.

"So am I, Baby, and it's you that makes me happy. Come here, I want to feel your body touching every part of me."

He moved down to my feet and slowly, with loving care, advanced up my body, licking it until our lips met in a soft, comfortable kiss. Our bodies were touching now, as I had desired. I stroked his muscled back, massaged his beautiful ass cheeks, and felt his iron-like cock pushing against mine.

"Hmm," he moaned, "you make me happy and complete."

He rolled off me and reached for my hard love tool and began to stroke it. I reciprocated and we were soon in a blissful masturbation ritual. We had not done this for a long time. As we got closer to ejaculation, Sean moved again, sitting with his legs over mine, our cocks together. He began to stroke both our cocks at the same time. We were kissing deeply and I was working his nipples. He leaned back suddenly and left our cocks unattended. It dawned on me immediately that it was my turn now. I had to use both hands, as had Sean, to get around our two rocklike cocks.

I felt his hands playing with his and my balls as I continued to jerk us off. I speeded up, really whacking our meaty dicks. I was close and told him so. I didn't stop, nor did he.

"I'm cumming," he shouted.

His dick spurted out the first of his volleys of love juice. I followed instantly. Our cum covered both our bodies, some on our faces, and a little in my mouth. Sean moved quickly and began licking up every bit of cum he could find on my body. He licked his lips and smiled. Then it was my turn, cleaning his body of cum, not only licking but also kissing his smooth skin as I moved about his cock and balls, his stomach, his chest, and finally his neck and face. In conclusion, we kissed, sharing our mouthfuls of cum with each other. It had been hot!

He raised his upper body, resting on his elbows, and stared at me.

"Can we stay here the rest of the day?" he asked.

"Doubtful. I would like that, but we have much to do today. And Jer and Blake are coming to dinner tonight," I reminded him.

"Well, if we were whores, we could invite them into bed with us and fuck them good," he responded with a laugh.

"I hope you're joking, Baby."

"Sort of, but sometimes when I am with you and very horny, I do think of threesomes and more. I guess I'm young and find all that stuff really sexy. That's all."

I was quiet for a while wondering if perhaps I was asking too much of Sean to remain monogamous. He was young and handsome and sexy as hell. He could have many affairs with handsome and sexy men. I decided to ask him if he wanted some sexual freedom. I know my voice was shaking as I said,

"You know Sean, I would never want to stand in your way if you wanted to experiment with another man. I know that you are young . . ."

Sean began screaming at me,

"Ryan Taylor, how could you think that of me. I was just kidding about that. Thinking isn't doing, is it? Don't you ever have fantasies? I do, and Hon, you are the one who is central to my fantasy. I love you and I only want you and I want us to have a family and to grow old together, loving each other until time runs out for us.

I reached out and pulled him tightly against my chest. I was weeping, and my words caught in my throat,

"Oh, Baby, forgive me for asking, but I want you to be happy, even if it means I have to share you. But thank God you want only me as I want only you. Together we will have our family and we will grow in our love for each other. I knew deep in my soul that you really didn't want to pursue other relationships. Sean, I had to ask to be sure, and if you did, I would grant you that freedom. I will love you until I breathe my last breath, and I know that God will allow us to love for eternity."

Sean was kissing my tears away, and through my tear-filled eyes, I saw that he was also weeping. My heart sank, and for a moment I felt a guilt that words cannot express. I took his head in my hands and held him so that I could look into his eyes, telling him,

"My lover, I have hurt you. God forgive me."

"My tears are joyful," Sean replied, "knowing that you love me exclusively, and that you would never really want to share me. Hon, that is exactly how I feel."

The matter was settled with a warm and tender kiss. We moved out of bed and into the bathroom and then the shower. Thus we began Friday; this one day in our life, knowing that it was one of a multitude of days of sharing our love.

********

(Sean narrates)

Friday at State passed quickly. In my first class, Professor Milne reviewed the semester's work, preparing us, she hoped, for the examination, which was scheduled for the week after convocation and commencement. I really like Professor Milne as she has a serious side but she often incorporates humor and interesting anecdotes about her life and travels. Jerrod was in the class and I smiled inwardly as he took copious notes that I imagined was every word she spoke. I got his attention once and he gave me the silliest grin I had ever gotten from him. I made a mental note: 'Jer is in love.'

My other classes, especially piano and music appreciation, were great. I dearly loved that Rog was my piano professor, and Dr. Jameson, who taught music appreciation, was a beautiful woman; and sexy, too. She was young, probably thirty years old. I wondered why no one had snagged her. Then I thought to myself, 'Maybe she's a lesbian.'

During the review in calculus class, I paid careful attention. I did well in the class, but I wanted to be sure I didn't miss anything important from pervious sessions.

Finally, my world geography class was a cinch as it wasn't that demanding. Winston Maxinton was the graduate student instructor. He was funny as well as interesting. I never told Ry, but early on, before we married, Winnie, as we all called him, made a pass at me.

After world geography, I went to the bookstore where I picked up the academic apparel, which I was to wear on Saturday. I then went to Ry's office to check with him about his day. I was surprised to find him busily working on examinations for the next week. His level four classes had all been tested in the previous two weeks. I quietly went into the office and sat in a chair near the door and watched him. I knew he was aware of my presence, but he ignored me for a couple of minutes. I said nothing. Finally he stopped typing on the computer and said,

"Hi, Baby. You look so good. I'm almost finished and we can head home. Let's get some steaks and stuff for dinner tonight. Everyone likes a good steak. Why are you so quiet?"

"I didn't want to interrupt you, Hon. You were so involved in what you were doing," I told him.

He got up from the desk and went to the door, which he closed. Then he pulled me to my feet and into his arms. He kissed me tenderly. My heart began to beat rapidly and my sexual energy increased. He finished kissing me, looked deeply into my eyes and told me,

"You, Baby, can interrupt me at any time. I am always here for you. I love you. I'm done and have sent the exams to the printing room. They'll be ready on Monday. Let's get out of here."

"Not yet," I told him. I kissed him again giving him my famous Kelly kiss. I heard him moan and I felt his cock begin to expand in appreciation of the kiss. I laughed lightly and continued,

"Now we can leave. I just wanted you to know how much you appeal to me."

With that we left the office, locked the door, went to the car and headed for the market where we stopped and purchased what we needed for dinner.

********

(Ellen narrates)

We met Emily and Father O'Rourke in the lobby of our hotel after they were dropped off by the limo. They were in high spirits and excited about tomorrow. Grace Foster, who was driving here with Dan and Craig, would be arriving later. It had only happened because of the help of Dan and Craig that all the important people in Sean and Ry's life would be at the convocation. Most of Ry's friends were colleagues here at State.

Poor Ry had no other relatives, just Gerry and me. He would have that feeling of extended family soon when he and Sean got the boys. The house was ninety-eight percent finished, but the boys hadn't yet seen it. We had kept a place for the grand piano and some of Ry and Sean's personal items. As soon as they had the boys they could move in and then Gerry and I could do what we wanted at the townhouse.

Gerry had been on the phone for what seemed like hours talking with our attorneys in Florida. I try never to listen in on these conversations because I know Gerry will give me the important details later. Strangely, he didn't say much to me except that he was making arrangements for our home in Florida to be closed up and prepared for hurricane season.

I accepted that as his final word on the matter.

Happily I had received word from Cathy that all the arrangements for the after-convocation celebration were finalized. The college dining service would provide the food and drinks, and alcoholic beverages would be provided as well. Gerry and I would pick up the check. Cathy estimated that there would be approximately 250 people attending, including all of the staff. It would be a gala event and would be housed under tents on the quad. Convocation would be held in the college field house.

Ry was going to be surprised at the convocation, but both of them would be surprised by the party. I also was able to convince Sister Mary to bring the boys, at least for a few minutes. She agreed, so Gerry and I went shopping for some nice outfits for them to wear.

It was wonderful being grandparents.

********

(Gerry narrates)

It had been difficult, but I had accomplished what Sean had begged me to do. First, I contacted Dan Hazelton and told him of Sean's wishes. Secondly, I contacted my lawyers in Florida and together they would call Dan and coordinate everything.

I was a little concerned about Ry's reaction to Sean's plans, but I assumed that Sean had everything under control. We would find that out at the hearing in Family Court.

Ah, the duties of a grandpa.

********

(Dan narrates)

Craig and I had some wonderful news for Sean and Ry. The new cabin was finished, except for some finishing touches in the landscaping and the final topping for the driveways.

Naomi Stephenson's decorating was magnificent. Craig and I loved the place so much that, if Sean and Ryan ever wanted to sell the place, we wanted it. That, of course, was wishful thinking. As things now stood, they could occupy the cabin as soon as they wanted. They had much on their plate with the adoption, the house, the cabin, the convocation and what it would mean to them, and Ry's upcoming trip to Denver. Craig wondered how they would fare with three boys running about the house. I assured him things would be fine, but he wondered aloud about their opportunity for intimacy, which he said would be rather limited. No more running about naked or making love whenever and wherever they pleased.

I laughed and told him that the boys had to sleep, there would also be a housekeeper and a nanny. Ryan and Sean were busy everyday of the workweek, but they might need to pull in their horns (no pun intended) on the weekends. If they really needed to have time by themselves, there were the two cabins and Ellen and Gerry would gladly take care of the boys when it was needed. I assuaged Craig's concerns. Secretly I also wondered about the same things.

Time would tell.

********

(Ryan narrates)

After we arrived at the townhouse and changed into some casual clothes, with some torrid lovemaking, we began to prepare things for dinner. Sean wanted to use the dining room, which I thought would be a great idea. He used all our best china and the sterling that Mom and Dad have given us. From the buffet, he took some of our best linen and set that out. He had purchased some flowers at the market and proceeded to arrange them and place them on the table. From the china closet he took our best crystal, a gift from Rog and Greg, and with a flourish called it finished. He summoned me into the dining area.

"Wow! That's beautiful, Sean. It's not as beautiful as you, Baby, but it's certainly lovely. That deserves a kiss. Come to me, Lover," I practically ordered him.

He ran into my arms and I hugged him tightly. I couldn't help myself and I began to stroke his back and then his beautiful ass. I felt his hardness against me, and his lips sought mine and we were lost in our kisses. His hands were on my hips but moved to my crotch, stroking my hardening penis. I had to stop this. We had just had sex. I didn't want it to stop, but I knew we had to, so I started coughing, pulling away from him in order to cover my mouth.

Thank goodness the moment passed. I wasn't comprehending him, though, because he said,

"Gosh, age can prevent sex for hours in some people. It's a shame." and then he laughed and I joined in.

"Later," I told him, "when we're in our marriage bed, I'll make up for this interruption. But, Baby, Jer and Blake will be here shortly and we have other stuff to do. How do baked potatoes, fresh green beans, steaks, and cheesecake with strawberries for dessert sound to you?

"Good."

"Then, let's go."

********

(Sean narrates)

I had just finished getting the cheeses and dips ready and placed in the living room, when the doorbell rang.

"I'll get it, Hon," I yelled to Ry as I walked to the door and after checking in the peephole, I opened to door to Jer and Blake.

"Welcome," I said, "we're ready for you two," I said with a smile.

Jer hugged me, as did Blake, who said,

"You guys are too kind. I mean having us over at such a busy time at State. I mean, it's just great." Ry had come up behind me and joined in the conversation,

"You see, Blake, we're just wonderful guys. Just ask your partner, Jer."

Ry's use of the word 'partner' was not lost on our guests, and their quick glance at each other, told us volumes about their love for each other. We went into the living room and I got some beer for Jer and Blake, a glass of wine for Ry, and a soda for me. We sat and spent some time with small talk and much laughter. It was rewarding to see Jer happy again. He was back to the guy I met that first week of school. Blake sat very close to Jer, and more than once they kissed each other, not with passionate, sex-filled kisses, but with those pecks couples exchange that tell of their affection for each other.

Ry excused himself and said he was going out on the patio to cook the steaks. Blake decided that we should join him, so everyone picked up a dish and we followed him onto the patio. Blake was impressed.

"This is some layout, guys. Wow! You guys have a hot tub? Can we use it later. No can't do that as we didn't bring suits. Jer, honey, why didn't you tell me?"

"Shit, I forgot about it, Blake. I'm sorry," said a red-faced Jer.

"Don't worry about that," said Ry, "we have a rule about use of the hot tub. No suits allowed. Everyone has to be naked. It keeps the tub in much better condition. Is that a problem for you, Blake?"

"Not if everyone is naked. I might get a hardon or something, and that would embarrass me," he replied.

Sean was laughing now, and told Blake,

"No problem with a hardon, Blake. We all get them and we all know we will probably get them seeing each other naked. But it's okay."

Jer put his arm around Blake's shoulders, and spoke quietly to him,

"Blake, Blake, Blake, if you get a hardon, I know how to take care of that. Don't worry."

"No way, Jose! I would die of embarrassment."

Ry, the elder statesman and peacemaker, intervened,

"Guys, let's not worry about it right now. Dinner is ready, so let's attend to that. The hot tub can come later if we want to use it. Let's eat."

Everyone agreed and we adjourned to the dining room for dinner, but not before I switched on the hot tub, 'just in case', I told myself.

********

(Jerrod narrates)

I told Blake on the drive to Ry and Sean's townhouse that I was nervous. Blake sympathized with me and gently reminded me that in the long run it didn't matter. We had independently decided that we would willingly give up Kevin's generous bequeath if Ry and Sean didn't approve of Blake. It was a large amount of money and property to cast aside, but in both our minds, it was incidental to our love for each other and our desire to be a couple.

Blake didn't want to speculate on what Ry and Sean would think about us and how quickly we fell in love. It had been swift, but that was mostly on my side. Blake had been hesitant about getting into a relationship. In fact, he hesitated to let me sleep with him when I was really an emotional and psychological mess. I had to admit to him that I had no designs when I first went to his bed. I was just afraid and needed the presence of someone else.

I certainly found Blake handsome and sexy. I hadn't thought too much about that until later, after two nights in his bed. I then felt that I had upset him terribly and needed to leave his apartment and go to Sean and Ry's. But after my foolish episode with pleasuring myself and his finding me in mid-masturbation, things changed. When he returned to the living room, our relationship evolved and improved each day. He was in love with me, and damn it, I was so in love with him that I could hardly stand it. Now we both knew that our future happiness depended on our being together. We were willing to give up much to make that happen.

We had been greeted warmly and enjoyed great conversation and some spectacular food. As we were finishing our dessert, Ry suggested that when we had all finished, we should adjourn to the living room. He asked Sean to get wine for everyone and, to my surprise, when Sean returned, he had four glasses. Sean didn't usually drink and I wondered why he would choose to drink tonight.

When we were all comfortably seated, Ry began,

"Blake, first of all, Sean and I like you. We know you are intelligent and caring. It's obvious to both of us that you love Jer. That's important to us. We don't want Jer to have to suffer through another troubled relationship. His time with Kevin was enough for a lifetime. Jer, Sean and I know you very well. We know that you can be impulsive and jump into things without thinking them through. We were afraid that you might be on the rebound from Kevin and your emotions got confused and you acted hurriedly and impulsively. But after spending the evening with you, I know that isn't the case."

Sean continued,

"Jer, when I saw you in comp class this morning, I knew you were in love. Everything about you shouted it out, but mostly it was that grin, you know, the one that says everything is fine with the world and with your life because I am in Love. Blake, I see only a loving and caring person when I look at you. Your demeanor and the way you treat Jer say much to both of us. Even your apparent embarrassment about being naked with us in the hot tub was endearing."

"Thank you," my beloved Blake answered.

Ry cleared his throat and stood. He faced Blake and me as we sat together on the sofa. After a silent moment, he began,

"I know you both must realize what you would sacrifice if we didn't approve of this arrangement. It's mammoth! Kevin has left you well off. The details of the bequeath that you shared with us is remarkable and speaks of how much Kevin loved you even though he wasn't able to show that often enough."

"Ry, I know Kevin loved me, but it was in his own particular way. I don't want another relationship like that. Blake is my equal. He doesn't have any hidden bad habits. We've been honest with each other about everything, including sex. He knows that I am ready for sex anytime and anyplace. He's not that way. When he makes love to me it is special and I feel that with every particle of my being. I am willing to give up everything to be with him. Ry and Sean, I love Blake more than I can explain or state," I told them.

Blake had been fidgeting through all that I said. When I finished, he stood up and faced Ry and Sean. He smiled at them and then reached down and took my hand. 'What was going on,' I wondered. Next he knelt on one knee in front of me, smiled and said,

"Jerrod Williamson, I want to be your life partner. I want to take care of you, love you, entertain you, be with you for all the years God will give to us. I have never felt so right about anything in my life. I now know that I fell in love with you the first moment I saw you. Please, Jer, will you accept me as your partner?"

By then tears were running down my face as I was filled with so much emotion and love for Blake that I couldn't control myself. I just uttered,

"Oh, God, yes, yes, yes, Blake. I love you so much."

We were in each other's arms and Blake was kissing me with such passion that I almost collapsed. Then Blake turned again to face Ry and Sean, his voice filled with emotion, but firm and full of love, he asked,

"Will you two approve of me? Will you bless us, and our union? Will you condone our relationship as life partners? Will you let us love each other as you two love each other?"

By then I was just a basket case, weeping and almost sobbing, but because Blake never let go of my hand, I made it through. When he finished, the room was silent.

Sean poured wine into the four glasses. He brought them first to us, and then to Ry. Setting down the tray, he took his goblet and holding it out toward us, he smiled and said,

"You two men are such good people. It's obvious that you are in love, so listen carefully to our answers to your questions.

"First, we approve of you, Blake. Second we will bless your union. Ry?"

Ry continued,

"We condone your relationship as life partners, and finally we want you to be able to love each other as we have loved each other. So raise your glasses. To Jer and Blake we offer our blessings and prayers. We love you both. God bless you."

"Cheers!" shouted Sean.

Happiness reigned!

********

(Sean narrates)

After much hugging and kissing and laughter, I suggested a dip in the hot tub. Ry liked the idea and so did Jer. Blake, however, was still a little shy about it. I decided the only way to get things going was to undress and get naked. I started and Ry followed. Jer hesitated only a moment and then he was naked with us. All three of us had the beginning of an erection. Blake looked at us, slightly red-faced, and then began to remove his clothing. When he finished and stood before us, Ry and I could understand Jer's sexual attraction to Blake. Blake's body was toned and beautiful, his pecs were prominent but not obtrusive, his six-pack stomach was perfect, and his cock and balls were first rate. He began to harden almost immediately.

Ry saved the day by throwing a towel to Blake, who modestly covered himself. We all went out to the hot tub. I was the first one in. Jer followed me, then Ry helped Blake to get into the tub and he finally joined the three of us. Jer sat near Blake, his head back enjoying the pulse of the jets. Ry was already beside me. I leaned to him and kissed him softly on the lips, knowing that Blake was watching us. It was obvious that Ry was feeling my ass as I had rolled over on to him. Our lingering kiss made us both hard, and when I rolled back to sit near him, our hardened cocks were obvious.

It was Jer who took care of the situation. He pulled Blake to him and started kissing him wildly. They meshed together and soon Blake was humping against Jer. We heard Blake whisper to Jer.

"I love you, Honey. I want you now."

That was our cue to leave and do the dishes, which we did.

Left alone, Jer and Blake made love in our hot tub. We laughed as we did dishes, as we couldn't think of a better use of the tub.

Later that night, after thanking us profusely for everything, Jer and Blake left. We asked that they take care of each other and that they continue to love each other through the little misunderstandings and arguments that they were sure to have. And Ry cautioned them not to raise their hands to one another.

Blake had responded,

"I will only raise my hand to give pleasure to my lover."

"Amen!" agreed Jer.

After they had gone and we were alone, we went to our bed and made love. Before sleeping, we prayed that Jer and Blake would be as happy as we were.

********

(Ryan narrates)

I awoke to find myself alone in bed. I could hear music playing softly in the living room, and wonderful smells of a good breakfast filled the air. I stretched and threw back the covers. As usual, I was erect since my bladder demanded immediate attention. I went to the bathroom and relieved myself, washed my hands, splashed some cold water on my face, brushed my teeth and passed my hairbrush through my hair. I did not dress, but walked naked to the kitchen where I found my beautiful, naked Sean cooking bacon, eggs and waffles. He smiled that smile when he noticed me, and as always we both were sporting erections in moments.

"Why didn't you wake me, Baby?" I asked. He laughed.

"It's not that you need any beauty sleep, Hon, 'cause you're a handsome hunk. It's just that I wanted to do something special for you on this important day in your professional life. Just imagine, I sleep with the Chair of the English Department at State. Wow! By the way, will that assure me of straight 'A's' in all my English electives?"

I walked over to him and slapped him tenderly on his beautiful ass cheeks, then I kissed the back of his neck, and nibbled on his ear for a brief time. He groaned. I told him,

"No special treatment for your grades, Lover. You have to do that on your own. However, when we're in bed, then you will get my undivided attention. You already have earned an 'A+' in that area. Turn around and kiss me, Baby."

Sean turned to me and kissed me sharing his tongue with me. At that moment, thoughts of breakfast flew away.

"Ry, I want you now so badly, but no. I've worked hard on this breakfast for you and that comes first. Later we can cum if you still want me," he said with a teasing tone in his voice.

"I always want you, Baby, always!"

So what followed was in this order: breakfast, lovemaking, shower, more lovemaking, toiletry, dressing, grabbing up stuff for the ceremony, and driving to campus.

We walked slowly to the staging area, which was behind the field house. As we passed a large group of people, I thought I saw Aunt Emily and Father O'Rourke, but that couldn't be. I asked Sean,

"Was that Aunt Emily and Father O'Rourke?"

He didn't exactly answer, but instead answered with a question.

"Why would they be here?"

There the matter dropped, but I began to have uncomfortable feelings about what was happening this morning. Then I saw Cathy in all her academic regalia carrying the college mace. We hurried to her and I asked,

"Are you carrying the mace?"

"Yes. Dr. Williams wanted me to do it since I am leaving and have served the college well during the years I have been here."

I just hugged her causing her to almost drop the mace. There were tears in her eyes and also in mine. Sean stood a little away from us and let us have our moment.

"Cathy, no one at this college deserves the honor more than you do. God, I'm going to miss you." I was able to squeak out.

Cathy kissed me on the cheek and told me,

"If you were not the person to whom I was leaving the leadership of English Department, I would be unhappy and sad. But with your knowledge and skill, I know things will go well. Janet and I are staying here. We own our little cottage in the dell, so to speak, and this is where we want to be. We'll travel and that sort of thing, but I'm here if you ever need my help."

Sean saved me from any embarrassment when he came up to us, kissed Cathy on the cheek and congratulated her for the honor of carrying the mace. Then, as only my beloved can, he thanked Cathy for taking such good care of me.

That did it! Tears now flowed freely from Cathy and me. Soon tears came to Sean's eyes, too. It ended was a group hug, as we moved to find our places in the line of march. Cathy knew well her place, last in behind the president, and first to leave in front of the president, carrying on the age-old tradition of the mace-bearer offering protection to the president.

All three of us moved to the dignitaries who were grouped together. I recognized the governor, a tall, handsome and articulate man. The trustees were familiar faces to me, but not names and faces I could associate. For the first time, Sean looked so young to me, but he was the most handsome and sexy guy there.

President Williams noticed us and motioned us over to the group where we were all introduced. Staff members were hurrying in, their robes flying as they tried to avoid being late. Amanda was organizing the English staff, and I wondered how much she regretted withdrawing from the competition. As it worked out, I would be marching with Rog whom I knew was helping with the honorary degree. Sean was to march with Creighton Dunsdale, the chairman of the trustees. I had noticed that while I was chatting with Rog, that President Williams had taken Sean aside and was speaking to him. I imagined he was being told about the protocol associated with honorary degrees.

the matter

A trumpet sounded and "Pomp and Circumstance" began to be played by the college orchestra. We began our march into the field house. Sean looked a little pale and I guessed he was nervous about the degree. Our college staff would not receive any awards for their marching ability. I thought to myself, and then commented to Rog, that we looked like a sundry group of people sauntering into dinner. He laughed and agreed. It was actually some time before we began to march in, having had to wait for the entire faculty to precede us. They sidled into rows on both sides of the main aisle where they would sit in front of the candidates who would be receiving Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate Degrees.

The very front row was reserved for VIP's. Imagine my astonishment when I saw Mom and Dad, Aunt Emily, Father O'Rourke, Mrs. Foster, Dan, Craig, Greg and Jer and Blake. 'What the hell is going on?' I wondered as we climbed the stairs to our seats on the platform.

I noticed my lover was smiling broadly. 'What did that little devil know that he didn't tell me?' I thought. My thoughts concluded with 'His ass is going to pay for this; at least I hope it will.'

The Roman Catholic Archbishop of our area of the state went immediately to the rostrum, and began the ceremony with the invocation. After the invocation, President Williams went to the podium to introduce the notables on the platform. He then began an introduction of the speaker for the day, Creighton Dunsdale, chairman of the trustees.

Mr. Dunsdale gave an impassioned and literate speech about the need for the graduates, and indeed, all of us, to pursue the best of the world. He made note of some of the greats of our country and world, and explained cogently how they had followed that approach. He concluded by telling the assembled group that the college had been fortunate this year in that a philanthropist had funded a chair for the college. This is wonderful, but it will be more remarkable and surprising when we would meet this generous person.

Next came honorary degrees. Creighton Dunsdale received a Doctor of Law Degree. Much to my delight, Cathy Sorenson received a Doctor of Fine Arts Degree, Philippe Masson, retiring chair of the foreign languages department, received a Doctor of Romance Languages. Finally, Dr. Williams began to speak about the last recipient,

"It is with pleasure that the Board of Trustees of State join the administration of this institution, in presenting this final honorary degree. It is not often that we meet someone of such talent and caring. A lover of music and a genuine virtuoso at the piano, he represented State as the guest artist with the New England All-College Orchestra under the able baton of Maestro Coen. His performance won raves from all. He is an 'A' student here at State and has demonstrated courage in his own short life. He respects this institution and its mission and wishes to assist us in maintaining and increasing excellence.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to call to the podium, Sean Kelly, who will be honored by State with the conferring of an Honorary Doctor of Music. Dr. Roger Fillimore, chairman of the music department, will assist me."

As Sean walked to the podium, amidst wild applause, tears began slipping down my cheeks. How proud I was of him.

Dr. Williams continued,

"Sean Kelly, it is an honor and a privilege that I confer upon you the Doctor of Music degree, granting thereby to you all the rights and privileges of this college."

He handed Sean the leather covered degree, and then he and a smiling Rog placed the hood around Sean's head. They both stepped back leaving Sean to hear the applause and shouts of approval from the audience. Sean moved the microphone; he paused and waited for some semblance of quiet to return to the field house. Then he spoke,

"I only hope that I continue to make State proud of me. I am just a country boy from Vermont who, with the love of my aunt, learned the piano early in life and God graced me with a talent that enabled me to mature as a pianist. I was orphaned as a very young child when my parents were killed in an automobile accident. Unbeknownst to me they had left me a sizable estate, which was revealed to me when I reached the age of nineteen. I have lots of money. (Everyone laughed.) But I don't need it all. I want to do things that will help people, and that will make excellent institutions, like State, become even better. (Applause)

"I will take only a few more moments of your time as I have an announcement to make. I would ask Dr. Ryan Taylor to join me at the podium."

'What's going on, here?' I thought as I almost stumbled to join Sean. He smiled that wonderful smile of his and although my heart was beating rapidly, his demeanor helped me to get control. After I reached the podium, he went on,

"Dr. Taylor, it is my distinct pleasure to announce that I have established a new chair at State. Because I know you very well, and love you as a teacher and life partner, it was decided that the chair be called, "The Ryan Taylor Chair in Shakespeare and Joyce."

Sean hugged me and whispered in my ear,

"I have plans for later, Hon," he giggled.

I was dumbstruck and didn't know what to do. Emotion had taken over and I knew that I wouldn't be able to speak. Sean clasped my hand and squeezed it so hard I thought he would break the bones. I got my strength from my remarkable young man whom I knew loved me completely. He stepped back a bit and left the microphone to me. I swallowed hard and began to speak,

"I don't know what to say. This is such a wonderful honor and such a complete surprise. The vast majority of you know that Sean and I are a couple. If this shocks those of you who do not know, I am sorry. I love him more than life itself. His action here, funding this new chair, demonstrates his generosity and his caring. Let me just add that Sean has funded other things, including a retirement home for older priests, and a wonderful scholarship fund for college students at his high school in Vermont. He is responsible for other kindnesses that would embarrass him if I listed them. Sean, thank you for doing this for me, the honor takes my breath away as you also do. Thank you."

The applause and shouting was deafening, much of the crazy shouting coming from our little group of extended family. Finally, I decided to thank Sean properly regardless of what happened. I went to him, grabbed him and kissed him long and hard on the lips. The governor looked surprised, but no one else seemed to mind as the applause continued.

Dr. Williams was back at the podium. He said,

"Dr. Taylor, would you please return to the podium?"

I walked back to the podium and watched Sean as he returned to his seat. I knew what was coming, but still my heart raced and my head was almost spinning. Sean smiled again letting me know to calm down; I did.

"Dr. Taylor," President Williams began, "This has been an exciting and well deserved day for you. I have one other announcement to make and it is this. You have been selected as the new Chairman of the English Department to replace our wonderful Cathy Sorenson. She emphatically supports this decision. In fact, if I may, I would like to read a small part of a letter I received from Cathy supporting your candidacy.

"She wrote, 'Ryan Taylor is one of the kindest most caring individuals I have known. His expertise in Shakespeare and Joyce has few matches in our university system. His classes are organized, contain excellent information and provoke discussion that is stimulating and informative. He has always been ready to help with any problem. His rapport with the members of the English staff is extraordinary. Ryan is a scholar and a remarkable teacher. He belongs as the leader of the English department.
Whatever happens, be sure that he continues to teach, otherwise, State will be the loser.' Congratulations, Dr. Taylor."

To my utter surprise and immense pleasure, the English staff went crazy, leading the thunderous applause. I shook President William's hand and returned to my seat. I sat there in a fog during the remainder of the ceremony. Degrees were conferred, music was played, and I awoke from my dream-like state when I heard the graduates shout and then saw caps flying in the air. The Benediction came next, with Kenneth Nichols of the Unitarian Church presiding. His benediction was brief, and then suddenly we were exiting the field house following Cathy and the mace-bearer, out into the blazing sunlight of a special day.

********

(Sean narrates)

I was happy with the way everything went at convocation. I wished I could have been more articulate, but I just said what I felt. President Williams congratulated me when we were outside. As he was speaking to me, Ryan came bounding across the lawn and grabbed me, hugging me as if his life depended on it. As he hugged me he whispered to me,

"You little shit, wait till I get you home in bed. Your ass is going to pay for this."

"I hope so," I whispered back.

Before I could say anything more, we were besieged by Mom and Dad and the rest of our family. There were loads of hugs and kisses and much laughter. Cathy and Janet found us and the hugging and kissing started all over.

Next, the English staff found Ryan and there were congratulations and statements of support for their new leader. Mom made sure that they knew about the reception, which was a total surprise to Ryan and me.

"The reception is for the entire staff and the platform guests. We'll have a great time. Now come on, let's head out to the quad and the tents for some food and drink." Mom added.

The exodus began. Little did Mom understand college students. They could find food and cold drinks miles away. I knew the tents would be packed with many uninvited guests. I mentioned it to Cathy who laughed and told me she had it all set having talked with President Williams. There would be plenty of food and drinks. He also assured Cathy that the college would take care of everything, and no matter how wonderful Ellen and Gerry's offer had been, it was something the college should have done anyway.

The reception was a gala event. Everyone was in a wonderful mood. It had been going on for a while when I heard,

"Daddy, Dad, we're at your party." And there they stood, Jacob, Ethan, and in Sister Mary's arms, Zachary. The boys ran to me and jumped on me. Then Ryan noticed them and came to my side, Ethan jumping into his arms. Mom had taken Zachary from Sister Mary and he was mumbling 'da da' as he was carried over to us. He reached out for me and I took him into my arms. He smiled at me and continued muttering 'da da'. I was thrilled. Jacob was pulling on my robe, so I looked down at him and asked,

"What is it, Jacob?"

"Can we have something to eat?"

We all laughed and took them to the food tables where we all found good things to eat. Ethan kept kissing Ryan who was thrilled by it. Jacob wouldn't leave my side and held my hand tightly in his. Mom took Zachary and left Ryan and me so we could help Jacob and Ethan with their meals. We found a table where we could all sit. Sister Mary was beaming, Mom and Dad were happy as clams, and the boys were delighting in all the people and the food. Ryan and I sat nearest the boys with the exception of Zachary who was with Mom and Dad.

"Did you hear, Zach?" asked Dad with close to a smirk on this face.

"What are we supposed to hear?" asked Ry who already knew.

"Grampa taught him to say, 'da da'" Jacob informed us.

"Did he really?" asked Ry. "And what did he teach you two guys to call us?" Ethan cut right in,

"You're 'Dad'" and pointing to me added, "and he's 'Daddy'"

I got up and went over to our Dad and hugged him. He was happy. I said to him,

"Thanks, Grandpa, for doing this. This is why we love you and Mom. We're so glad you are going to be close by for at least part of the year. You know the boys are going to miss you something awful."

Mom's eyes glistened a little, but she told us,

"We'll never be more than a few hours away. And who knows what the future may hold. We might move here permanently."

The boys had now been with us for the better part of an hour and a half. Sister Mary had been quiet but observant, she finally spoke,

"I should probably get the boys back to the home," she said.

"No, please, Sister." implored Jacob.

"We'll see," she said, and then added, "there is one more thing. I don't know if you know. but Larry Bigotan has pressured Family Court and your case has been moved up on the docket to Monday of next week."

"What?" I asked.

"When did this happen?" asked Ry.

"I got the call late this morning. Rita tried to call you, but you were here. She said she left you a message," said Sister Mary.

I just stared ahead, remembering that I had my composition class examination on Monday. I said,

"I have an exam at ten in the morning on Monday."

"What's it in, Baby?" asked Ry.

"Composition with Dr. Milne."

"No worry, I can take care of that, especially now that I am about to become Department Chair," Ry reassured me.

Everyone laughed, but Jacob looked a little bewildered, and asked,

"What's funny?" he asked.

"It's just your Dad exercising his leadership muscles," I told him.

"I don't understand, Grandpa?" he said to Dad Taylor.

"Neither do I, Jacob. It's funny to older people. Some laugh because we think its funny. Some of us laugh because we don't get it, but we don't want to be left out, so we laugh anyway."

"That's stupid!" Jacob said with a snarl.

Without realizing that I did it, I reprimanded Jacob,

"Jacob, I don't like the tone of your voice. And 'stupid' isn't a very nice word to use."

"Dad doesn't mind," was his answer as he went to Ryan.

"Jacob! That's enough! I do mind. We don't want our children to be fresh and to use bad words. Do you understand?' Ry scolded. At this moment, Zachary decided to cry. Mom saved the day.

"Ryan and Sean, Dad and I will take Sister Mary and the boys back to the home. I think the boys are getting tired." Sister Mary agreed, but Ethan and Jacob didn't.

Almost in unison, Jacob and Ethan began to whine,

"We don't want to go back to the home. We want to stay with our dads. Please, Sister Mary, let us stay."

It was Mom again who took care of the situation,

"Your dads have some important things to do. They'll come to give you your baths, read to you, and get you to bed."

"That will be fine, won't it boys?" stated Sister Mary. Without waiting for an answer, she took the boys by their hands and led them out of the tent. Mom and Dad followed with Zachary. Dad stopped only long enough to give me a signed blank check for the reception. I tried to tell him the college was taking care of it, but he wouldn't listen. He hurried after the others.

Except for the buzz of the crowd, which by now had thinned out a great deal, it was quiet. I looked at Ryan and almost immediately we began to laugh. I said,

"So, I guess, Hon, this is what having a family will be like. I was proud of you for the way you handled Jacob."

"But I'm prouder of you, Baby, for not letting Jacob get away with his fresh mouth. Did you get a chance to chat with anyone here?"

"Just a couple of words with the governor and some of the trustees. Dr. Williams spoke to me, and I talked with Rog and Greg. Dan and Craig and Mrs. Foster spoke to me, and Aunt Emily and Father O'Rourke also chatted with me. They have left now. Hon, to tell you the truth, I'm pooped."

"Me, too," he said as he came to me and hugged me.

"Is there anyone else we need to speak to before we leave?" I asked.

"No, let's get out of here. I want to go home and get out of these clothes, maybe take a shower and then a nap. By the way, I have something about which I need to get even with you. Maybe I can also get to that.

"I hope so," I said with a laugh.

Walking quickly out of the tent, we moved together to our car.

It had been quite a day.

To be continued...

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