Chapter 29 

 

The dinner party was a great success and everyone had a wonderful time. As different and individual as everyone was, they somehow seemed like a tight knit group of friends that had known each other for years. New bonds and friendships were formed and in the course of conversations during the multiple hours the party continued for, it seemed unquestionable that these people would come together again.

 

The variation in age difference between Billy at twenty-four and Tim at forty-seven had no influence on the gathering. Everyone got on very well and the conversations were easy and natural while crossing between honest and deeply personal, to highly comical and superficial.

 

Tim and Jordan left after midnight to return to their hotel. They were leaving the next afternoon for California, a decision Tim had made before they even flew to Michigan, thinking it would be better to take things slowly at first. Following the day and night, he was not particularly happy with his decision but he believed he would be back again soon and for a longer stay. Subsequently, Tim said they would see Nick and Billy tomorrow, with a clause added, “not too early, though.”

 

Honey and Ann were the next to go, returning to Nick’s apartment just before one in the morning. During the dinner, Tim and Jordan had taken the women to heart and Honey and Ann had also discovered a burgeoning new friendship with Michelle. Phone numbers and addresses were exchanged with solemn promises to keep in touch.

 

Michelle and Eric remained for almost another hour, talking and laughing with Nick and Billy. Like everyone, their night had been wonderful and they could not have been more overwhelmed by the surprising and enjoyable party, which had been thrown in their honor. Like Tim and Jordan, Eric and Michelle left their car and called for a cab to take them home, knowing they were not in any condition for driving. Billy gave them an old blanket and they wrapped their tired and sleeping puppy before placing it in one of the carry cages Nick had purchased to bring them home. A few minutes later they were heading off amidst more words of appreciation.

 

Once back inside and alone, Billy told Nick he wanted to clean up. Nick complained but Billy told him he did not want to get up on Sunday and start working again. He wanted to sleep in and have a lazy morning before people started showing up again. Nick agreed and so after clearing the dining room table and straightening up the room, they cleaned up the kitchen.

 

Nick’s first dinner party had been an event he could never have imagined. As they stood in the kitchen at the sink, Billy washing and Nick drying, he thought of the group of people that had been there that night. Though to differing degrees, still he knew they were all very important to him. He remembered while introducing his father, he had referred to everyone as a little family. It had been a spontaneous remark but now, following the dinner party, he knew there was something to those words.

 

Throughout the evening, he had been surprised by how random people that had never met, could interact like they were the greatest of friends. They had all clicked and as he thought about it now, he believed they were indeed a family. That unexpected occurrence and all the smiles and laughter had made it one of the best nights of his life. This was a world he had known nothing about. He told Billy how much he had enjoyed the night and how happy he was. He said, “I have a family” and then with an emotional thank you he hugged and kissed Billy before returning to drying the dishes.

 

By the time everything was back to normal, Billy had been yawning constantly for thirty minutes. He had worked his ass off all day, cleaning, rearranging, preparing and cooking. He had then put in a major effort as host, seeing to everyone’s needs and making sure everyone had a fantastic night. Nick wanted to give him something in return but the moment Billy’s head hit the pillow, he was asleep. Nick was disappointed but he wrapped his arm around Billy, pulled him close and kissed him softly. For a short time as he lay in bed holding Billy, Nick thought that this entire week had been like a never-ending dream. Everything seemed just too perfect and his world seemed so wonderful now. Minutes later, Nick was asleep as well.

 

Sunday began with snuggling and kissing in bed. It evolved quickly and after mutual blowjobs and then more kissing and cuddling, Billy once again referred to Nick as TD and looked at him with fire in his eyes.

 

Nick asked, “Are you sure?”

 

“Nick, none of what’s happened is how I expected to begin my first real relationship and in my dreams I always had the man who is you, making love to me on our first night in bed together. However, it’s been five days and though I’ve loved everything between us and I still really want you to make love to me, I’m so fucking horny and I’m so desperate for you right now, I just want you to drill me to my core.”

 

Billy’s stitches were to be checked and hopefully removed on Tuesday but though they both believed a circumspect attitude would be best, this was what they had wanted for the last five days. Suddenly forty-eight hours seemed like an eternity and soon enough they were both out of bed and standing. Billy prepared Nick and then stood facing a blank wall, the palms of his hands pressed to it. Nick was behind him, their bodies touching, Nick’s hips rolling and his erection teasing up and down between Billy’s tight cheeks. Nick’s arms were around Billy’s body, his hands caressing his nipples and balls.

 

“Billy, I want to make love to you as much as you want me to but I suspect I’m just as horny as you are. When the time is right we’ll both have that time we want but for now, I want to fuck you so bad, too,” Nick said.

 

“Wait,” Billy said and Nick stepped back.

 

Billy turned around and faced Nick. He took a step closer and ran his hands over Nick’s body. He looked into Nick’s eyes and he knew that he was going out of his mind with anticipation. Billy was feeling the same but he did not want to look at the texture and paint of a wall on their first time. He slid his hands up over the huge chest and then a second later his arms were locked around Nick’s neck. He pulled and Nick leaned down and as they kissed again, Billy lifted his right leg and curled it around Nick’s hip. It was instinctive as Nick’s hand slid down and gripped Billy’s butt. Billy lifted his other leg, forcing Nick to carry his weight and then he curled that leg around his man and locked his ankles behind him.

 

Standing straight and tall with Billy holding him tight, they kissed each other hungrily and no more than a minute later, Nick was pushing up, as he lowered Billy down. It took some time, some effort and a lot of stopping and starting. Finally, though, they held each other tight and as yet again they kissed, they became a variation of conjoined though unlikely twins.

 

There were moments when Billy felt the stretch of his chest and the pull of his stitches but regardless of only five days of healing, he felt his chest was so much better and he believed it would be fine.

 

Even with the limitations, the sex was still fantastic and Billy thought that Nick’s one experience with Eric had turned him into a sexual master classman. Powerful and strong, Nick held Billy’s weight unwavering and kissed him sensually while his strokes were deep and shallow, fast and slow, sensual and rugged and all while driving Billy to the edge before saving him from multiple falls. Billy thought Nick was extraordinary.

 

Time became a meaningless concept and the outside world was a creation that had never occurred. There was nothing but their love, their heat and their need, as their sweating bodies became one, a combination of muscle and flesh and desperate tongues frozen in infinite movements and moments.

 

For the entire act, amidst it all, Nick maintained caution but still there was no lack of love, passion or overwhelming stimulation. It was delicious and hot as hell and it revealed to them the possibilities of what lay in store, in a future without physical limitations.

 

Eric and Michelle arrived to pick up their car at around eleven thirty and popped in briefly before heading off again to celebrate their anniversary in a personal manner. Honey and Ann finally appeared just after midday, their smiles and flushed faces evidence that their morning had taken a similar path to that of Nick’s and Billy’s.

 

They sat and talked for a while but there was a sense that it was all coming to an end too quickly. Ann asked Nick where he had purchased the puppies. Honey had finally given in and they wanted to go to the same place and get another Beagle from the same litter. They talked a little more and when they finished their respective beverages, they decided it was time to leave. With sad faces, they all hugged and then Nick and Billy walked them to their car.

 

Only a few minutes after Billy and Nick returned to the apartment, Tim and Jordan arrived. The four men ate lunch together and talked non-stop but all too soon, their time had arrived as well. In separate vehicles, they were soon all on their way to the airport.

 

After the hire car return and the luggage check-in, they sat in the lounge waiting for the flight announcement. The previous night Nick and Tim had promised each other they would not become blasé about their reconnection and that they would remain in constant touch and visit each other often. Though there was no doubt they were both committed to their new father/son relationship, still a subdued mood began to surface. Neither man was looking forward to their first meeting coming to an end.

 

They sat close to each other, Billy and Jordan giving them the needed time and space while the newly acquainted father and son seemed happy but heartbroken. When the call to board the flight finally came, Tim and Nick walked with arms around each other’s shoulders, subdued voices reaffirming how important the other man was. Billy and Jordan walked behind, glancing at each other and smiling, knowing what they had already discussed. They knew that their respective partner’s feelings were understandable. Jordan had talked to Billy the night before and they had agreed to make the effort to keep everything on track.

 

At the gate, both Nick and his father shed a tear as they parted. Billy made certain that Jordan had his number and Jordan again promised he would keep in touch. The four men looked at each other as Tim and Jordan went through the gate and then a moment later, they disappeared from sight. Once again another part of Nick’s new life was determined, if temporarily over.

 

Back at home, the afternoon, evening and night were quiet, easy and peaceful. They talked, watched a couple of movies and played with their puppy. They discussed several different names for the pup but still no name was settled upon. That night, the discussion of going back to work the next day occurred but though they liked the idea of being at home and together, they agreed they both loved their jobs and were looking forward to getting back. Following on from how they had changed each other’s life, another discussion about living arrangements ensued. Very quickly, they agreed they should move in together, at least temporarily at Billy’s place, until they could find somewhere else that was larger and more suitable. Nick also suggested a house so their nameless pup could have a yard.

 

From that day onward, life settled down. Their new situation became natural and normal and their love for each other continued to grow. Their sex life seemed to take on a life of its own and was emotional, passionate and for what was to be a long time, insatiable.

 

The following Tuesday, a week after everything had truly begun, which was in the first week of spring, saw Billy return to the DMC to have his stitches removed and was given a clean bill of health. He was told that though the scar would be clean and would fade with time, it would most likely be visible for the rest of his life. Billy was not at all happy with the information but Nick told him that night that it made no difference to him and that he would love him and want him even if he had a deformed and monstrous head growing out of his chest. The visual did little for Billy’s insecurity but when Nick laid him down and began kissing his scar like it was the most natural thing in the world, Billy felt a lot better.

 

Exactly another week later on the following Tuesday, Billy received a phone call from the Henry Ford Kingswood Hospital in Ferndale. He spoke with a psychiatrist named Rowan Kent and was told Bobby was responding to treatment. Rowan asked Billy if he would come in to the hospital and have a chat with him about Bobby. Billy agreed and made an appointment to visit with the doctor on the following Thursday before his shift at Escargot began.

 

The moment he ended the call, Billy knew it was time to call his parents. He knew he had waited far too long but the pressure to make the call had been significant, despite knowing that his parents might be worried about Bobby. He had no idea what the situation was with Bobby or what Bobby had told them in regard to when he would be back in Scottsville. All he knew was that he did not want his parents to be put through any unnecessary stress.

 

Nick was at work and though Billy wished he were at home with him for some support, he took a deep breath and dialed the number. His father answered the phone and Billy in his apprehension, allowed him to say hello twice, before he finally spoke.

 

“Dad,” he said.

 

His father questioned, his voice filled with shock, “Billy?”

 

“Yes Dad, it’s me.”

 

“Thank the lord you’re okay. Your mother will be so pleased when I tell her you’re all right and God has brought you back to us,” his father said.

 

“Yeah, I’m fine,” he replied.

 

“Where are you, Son? Are you coming home?”

 

“No Dad, I’m not and I can’t.”

 

“What do you mean you can’t? What’s stopping you and why did you leave in the first place?”

 

Billy sighed. He knew this would be a difficult conversation to have without his actions and his absence being questioned. It was also a conversation he did not want to have at that moment. This phone call was not meant to be about him.

 

“Dad, I didn’t call to speak to you about me.”

 

Asking with a tone of irritated confusion, his father said, “Then what did you call about?”

 

“Bobby,” Billy answered.

 

“Bobby? Did he find you? Is that why you’ve made this call?”

 

“Yes Dad, in a way. You see he did find me but that’s not what this is about. Something happened,” Billy said, struggling.

 

“What happened? Is Bobby all right?”

 

Billy said, “Physically, yes he’s fine but…”

 

His father asked abruptly, “But what?”

 

“Shit,” Billy said in frustration.

 

“Don’t use that language, Billy. You know we don’t tolerate it in this family. It’s unchristian. Now tell me what’s happened?”

 

“Dad, there was something wrong with Bobby. He had a breakdown while he was with me,” Billy began to explain.

 

His father said, “A breakdown? What do you mean?”

 

“A mental breakdown, Dad. Bobby needs treatment.”

 

“What? No. Bobby is strong and confident and determined. He isn’t some weak-minded person and God would not allow that to happen to one of our family. Bobby is a servant of the Lord. Why are you making up these lies, Billy?”

 

“I’m not lying, Dad. Bobby was admitted to a psychiatric facility in Detroit. He’s been there for two weeks. I’ve just received a phone call from a doctor and he wants me to go and see him, to talk about what’s wrong with Bobby,” Billy continued.

 

There was nothing but silence across the line when Billy completed what he was saying. He knew his father was still on the line and that he was struggling to accept what he was being told. In their family, it was not just homosexuality that was a crime. Mental health and an array of other areas of life such as prostitution, addiction or inter-racial breeding were considered deviations of Christian normality and works of the devil against God. Billy knew his parents would have a problem with Bobby’s condition.

 

“Dad?”

 

Asking while changing the subject abruptly away from an issue he did not want to discuss or accept, his father said, “Billy, why did you leave?”

 

“Dad, we’re talking about Bobby. He told me he looks after everything in Scottsville and so I’m guessing you were expecting him home and that you’ve been wondering where he is. At the moment I can’t tell you when he’ll be coming home, I’ll no more after I see the psychiatrist.”

 

“Bobby was fine before he left. This isn’t true,” his father said.

 

Billy felt anger at his father’s reaction. It did not surprise him but the typical and blatant denial of something that was just another variation of life, instantly got under Billy’s skin and made him want to scream.

 

“Denying the truth won’t make it go away, Dad. Bobby is mentally unwell and the last time I saw him he didn’t even know who I was or where he was. He was a total stranger to me. I thought you would want to know and that is the reason for this call. He’s been admitted to the Henry Ford Kingswood Hospital for the mentally unwell,” Billy said aggressively, irritated by his father’s dismissive attitude.

 

“Don’t you take that tone with me, Billy. I’m your father and you will show me respect. Children don’t speak to parents in that way. It’s ungodly and not the way you were raised. Now tell me where you are and why you ran away?”

 

“Dad,” Billy said with a gasp of disbelief.

 

“I’m waiting, Billy.”

 

“Fine,” Billy said angrily, now certain he had been right about his parents all along. “You want to know? Then buckle in because I’m about to tell you. Dad, the reason I left without a word was because I didn’t want to hear what I’m hearing from you now. I didn’t want to hear that I was evil and wrong and a servant of the devil. Dad, I’m a homosexual and I knew how you and mom would react, so I left.”

 

“No. That’s not true. None of this is true. Bobby is not insane and you’re not a deviant. Why are you telling me all these lies? We are a Christian family and those sort of disgusting things don’t happen in good Christian families. Did someone kidnap you? Are you being forced to say what you’re saying? Did the same people get Bobby as well? Why are you telling these lies? Where is Bobby and what is really happening?”

 

Billy sighed with utter frustration. He had expected maybe an argument but he had not expected a complete refusal of the truth. His father was dismissing everything as impossible. It was unbelievable and he wanted to slap his father to wake him up to the realities of life. Unfortunately, he knew his father was one of those people that lived in a world of denial, judgment and blindness to all that existed outside of his tiny, religion consumed mind.

 

“So I see I was right about you, Dad. I made the right choice to leave because I knew you wouldn’t be able to accept that I was attracted to men. Dad, I’m a homosexual, I have a lover and we are in love and live together. We sleep in the same bed and have sex,” he elaborated angrily. “I am who I am and I will always be this way. I would like you in my life but I can’t have you in my life if you can’t accept me for who I am.”

 

“It’s wrong and God will damn you to hell, Billy.”

 

“No, it’s not wrong and no he won’t,” Billy said while trying to reduce his anger.

 

“Let no man lay with another man as he would with a woman, it is abomination,” his father quoted.

 

Billy sighed again, now more angrily. “Dad, do you want to know about Bobby or not?”

 

Billy’s father said, “Lies!”

 

“Fine! I told you what has happened to Bobby and I’ve told you what hospital he has been admitted to. If you want to find out about him then call the hospital. If you want to be a good and proper parent and go and see your son, then do so. Otherwise, I’ve done what I needed to do and if you ever wake up from your judgmental delusions, Bobby will know where I am,” Billy said.

 

The line went dead immediately and the call was over. His father had hung up on him. With a frustrated huff, Billy stood up from the couch and went to his bedroom to get dressed for work. He was on the evening shift and it bugged him that he would have to wait all night until he could tell Nick what had happened. He wondered if telling his father had ruined any chance that Bobby would be allowed to go home, if he ever got well.

 

Billy shrugged on that note, thinking he would know more about Bobby’s condition after the appointment on Thursday. He felt a tinge of regret that he had allowed his father to get to him. He thought he should not have gone out of his way to put the mental image of him in bed with a man, into his father’s head. He shrugged again. He picked up his wallet and keys, smiling at the sterling silver heart on the keychain and then he left the apartment to go to work.

 

***

 

Hours later, as Nick was driving home from work that afternoon, his phone rang. He pressed a button and he heard the call connect to a speaker so he could have a hands free conversation. It was fairly standard technology but Nick still thought it was incredible.

 

“Hello,” he said.

 

“Nick, it’s Eric.”

 

Nick asked and then snickered, “Hey, how’s my pure and chaste, best buddy?”

 

Eric replied to the remark with a measured voice, “Wanna fuck?”

 

“A fuck sounds great, I’d love one,” Nick replied.

 

Eric was momentarily silenced by Nick’s agreeable response. Even though he made comments and remarks about them having sex all the time, he knew they loved each other and had agreed it could never happen again. They may have been the best of friends but their sexual attraction was obvious to them both and the thought of Nick being naked and hard while fucking him, was a hunger that was always with him.

 

Eric asked disbelievingly, seeking confirmation that Nick was prepared to play while Billy was at work, “Excuse me?”

 

“I’m horny and I wanna fuck,” Nick said.

 

Eric asked, “You do?”

 

“Yeah I do. I want to fuck,” he said and paused before he added, “Billy.”

 

“Ass,” Eric replied, thinking he should have known better.

 

“And a virgin ass at that,” Nick pointed out.

 

“Fuck you, Rawlins.”

 

“You wish,” Nick said.

 

“I do,” Eric replied.

 

“I know,” Nick said.

 

“Ass,” Eric repeated.

 

“I haven’t spoken to you for over a week, Eric. How is it adjusting to being back at work after laying on your ass for two weeks?”

 

“It’s good, Nick. Like you, I love my job so I’ve enjoyed getting back to it.”

 

“Good to hear. So to what do I owe the pleasure of this stimulating conversation, Mr Cross?”

 

“Sometimes I wonder why I bother with you, Nick.”

 

“Good friends are hard to find, Eric. It’s why we both put up with the shit you spin and anyway, every now and then you say or do something special.”

 

Feeling good about Nick’s remark, Eric asked, “Is that right?”

 

“Yeah, it is. Now is this just a social call or did you want to catch up or something?”

 

“Something,” Eric replied.

 

“Well, Billy’s working tonight and I’m on my way home to an empty apartment so you have my undivided attention, Eric.”

 

“I can hear that I’m on speaker and your driving, which means your attention is divided,” Eric said.

 

Nick replied, “You want to split hairs or you want to tell me the purpose of this call?”

 

“Actually I was trying to put you in a good mood and make you smile,” Eric said.

 

“You always make me smile, Eric.”

 

“Well, I hope I put you in a good mood because I have to tell you the shit is being flung again. Jack Dawson is once again trying to rally the troops against you,” Eric revealed.

 

Nick sighed and asked, “What about this time?”

 

“Same thing. I guess he’s been waiting for a decision or for something to happen. The thing is, as we’ve discussed recently, I don’t think too many people believed him but even if they did, everyone seems to have let the matter drop. It seems what I said to you about Jack not having a sterling reputation must be true. We’re talking about an alleged sexual assault after all but after two weeks, no one has said or done anything about it. It must be driving him nuts and so he’s calling the guys again,” Eric explained.

 

Nick asked, “What did he say to you?”

 

“Jack hasn’t called me yet but I’ve already decided that if he does, I’m going to tell him to fuck off,” Eric said.

 

“You don’t have to do that for me, Eric.”

 

“Yeah, I do because it angers me that he’s attacking one of the people I care about most in my life. No one gets to fuck with you like that, not while I’m alive and kicking. Anyway, it’s not just for you, my friend. The guy is scum and I’m over his bullshit,” Eric said.

 

Nick laughed and then was silent for a moment before he said, “Eric, would you do me a favor?”

 

“Of course,” Eric replied.

 

“As I said, Billy’s working tonight so would you call the guys and round them up for me. See if you can get them to meet somewhere. I think it’s time I dealt with this once and for all. I think it’s time for me to come barging out of the closet and if they don’t want me on the team then so be it. Whether they care or not, I’m not going to allow it to seem like I’m hiding or that I’m afraid. I am who I am, Eric. They can accept me or reject me and though I would prefer it one way over the other, I certainly won’t crumble and cry if it’s not the answer I hope it will be,” Nick said, his tone of voice empowered.

 

“I want you on the team,” Eric said.

 

“I know you do and thanks, Eric. Anyway, let’s keep a positive frame of mind and give the guys some respect and trust that they’re not all assholes like Jerk Dawson.”

 

Eric laughed and repeated questioningly, “Jerk Dawson?”

 

Nick laughed as well and said, “Spontaneous thought but I’m sure you’ll agree it fits.”

 

“Absolutely, Nick.”

 

Nick asked, “So?”

 

“Yeah, okay, of course I’ll do it for you,” Eric said but his tone was filled with reluctance.

 

“Eric, it doesn’t mean that if the worst happens that you and I won’t be seeing or speaking to each other all the time. Also, if it does happen, they can’t stop me from coming to the games to watch you. I can sit with Michelle and we’ll be your two greatest supporters. No one has any say in you being my friend and no one can change how we both know I feel about you and if anyone even attempts to fuck with you and me, I’ll lay them out,” Nick said aggressively.

 

“Damn,” Eric said with the biggest smile that Nick could not see.

 

Nick said, “So, do I have your support, Eric?”

 

Eric asked, “Are you absolutely sure this is what you want to do?”

 

“Yeah, absolutely. I’m sick of his crap, too,” Nick said.

 

“Then I’ll be standing at your side and you got it, whatever you want or need,” Eric confirmed.

 

“Thanks, Eric.”

 

“For you, anything, Nick. Anyway, I’ll call you at home when it’s done,” Eric said.

 

“See you tonight, hopefully,” Nick said.

 

“I’m sure I’ll be able to get something sorted for tonight,” Eric replied.

 

“Okay than, we’ll leave it at that for now and I’ll wait for your call,” Nick said.

 

“Done, bye Nick.”

 

“Bye,” Nick replied.

 

Nick went home and after showering and getting dressed, he sat around for a while waiting. After almost another hour, he took another call from Eric. He was surprised to discover that Eric was inviting him over for a barbecue but though he said yes, before he had the chance to ask what had transpired with the team, Eric told him to rock over as soon as he was ready and then hung up before Nick could say another word. Nick stared at the phone disbelievingly but shook his head and then left the apartment.

 

Night was beginning to fall when Nick arrived at Eric and Michelle’s, only to discover a street packed with cars and practically nowhere to park. When he got to the front door and asked Michelle what was going on, she told him that almost all the team and their wives and girlfriends were there as well. He walked inside and Michelle led him through the house, diverting him briefly to say hello to Buster the Beagle who was curled up in a doggie bed sound asleep.

 

“Buster? I like it,” he said.

 

“Eric has to take credit for it. I didn’t like it at first but it’s growing on me,” Michelle replied.

 

“At least Buster has a name. Billy and I still haven’t been able to decide what to call our pup. In fact, Pup is the temporary name we call him while we’re trying to decide,” Nick explained.

 

“I’m sure you’ll come up with a name soon enough,” Michelle said.

 

“Yeah, I’m sure we will. Tell me something, Michelle. Eric didn’t seem overly happy when I gave you Buster. Is he warming to the dog?”

 

“Oh Nick, Eric is all bluster and bravado and you know he is. He puts on all the façades to make people think he’s unbeatable and unbreakable but he’s a big softy and a lovable teddy bear. Sure he’s strong and tough and would take a bullet for anyone he cares for but when no ones around and only I can see him, he turns into this big kid at times and Buster is like his little buddy that he adores. Don’t let him tell you otherwise,” Michelle said and Nick gave a very happy smile.

 

Changing the subject suddenly, Nick said, “Michelle, I was actually thinking of maybe a bar or something when I thought about doing this. I didn’t mean for Eric to invite everyone here. I’m sorry if this is an inconvenience.”

 

“Nick, this was my idea. When Eric told me what you were planning to do, I thought it might be better for you in a safe environment. I know times are changing but there are still a lot of dickheads in the world and I didn’t want you or my husband getting caught up in a bar fight or something equally unpleasant,” she replied.

 

“You two are becoming like my guardian angels,” Nick said.

 

“No Nick, we’re just your friends,” she replied.

 

“Well, I cherish the both of you and I’m always here for you if ever you need me,” Nick said.

 

Michelle smiled and squeezed Nick’s arm and then said, “Come on, let’s join everyone in the backyard.”

 

They walked out onto the deck and looked down into the yard. Nick stopped and saw Eric cooking stakes and guys mulling around drinking beers and talking in groups. He then saw the two huge wooden barbecue tables and benches, positioned one beside the other. Nine women sat at one table drinking, talking and laughing.

 

Michelle nudged him and as he looked at her she smiled and said, “Friends do what’s necessary for friends.”

 

Someone yelled with amazement, “Dozer?”

 

It was a man’s voice and it was filled with surprise at the sight of Nick. Everyone turned and looked up onto the deck. It was obvious from the sudden silence and the stunned expressions that they were amazed to see Nick at a social engagement. Nick smiled and waved to all of them as a whole and then turned and grinned at Michelle.

 

“Since everyone started to arrive, I’ve been talking to all the women and some of the men. Because most of us are only acquainted due to the team, the main topic of conversation is football but apart from your touchdown, no one has mentioned you or Jack. Eric and I aren’t sure but we both think no one seems to care. I’m beginning to wonder if the only person to have a problem with you is Jack. I guess we’ll find out when you say whatever it is you’ve decided to say.”

 

“I’m winging it, Michelle. I haven’t thought about specifics, I just want to get the truth out there and show that I have nothing to hide. I think the best way to do that is to come out and see what happens,” Nick clarified.

 

“A variation on shouting out to the world. You’re a brave man, Nick. Good luck. Come on, let’s go down and join the party.”

 

As Michelle moved away from Nick to join the other women around the table, Nick walked over to the barbecue and stood opposite Eric and said, “This isn’t what I had in mind.”

 

“Michelle’s the culprit, talk to her if you have a problem,” he replied with a bemused grin.

 

“It’s no problem, I appreciate it,” Nick said.

 

“I thought you might,” Eric replied.

 

Seeing Nick alone with Eric, several guys suddenly appeared around the barbecue as well. They were all looking at Nick with curious expressions but then Brock said, “Bit of a surprise to see you at one of our gatherings, Nick.”

 

Brock was the newest member of the team and had only been part of it for one season but it was long enough to have learned that Nick never joined in or socialized. As Nick looked at Brock in seriously tight blue jeans and the tightest tank top, he thought for the first time that Brock was a hunk of a young man. Something about him being clean and shaved with a new, sharp haircut while smartly dress, changed his whole appearance.

 

Nick thought for the first time that Brock was really hot. He had green eyes and black hair with really long eyelashes. He was comparatively short to the rest of the team but he was very well built. Nick guessed he was early twenties, maybe twenty-three. A silent voice screamed in Nick’s head, “Gay” and Nick wondered if it was the gaydar sense that Billy so often made reference to. He looked Brock directly in the eyes and responded to what he had said.

 

“Yeah, I guess it is a bit of a surprise but I thought it was about time I showed my face, off as well as on the field. Eric told me you all thought I was a bit strange for not showing at the celebrations so I decided I’d come to this one.”

 

All of the guys had walked over and were now grouped around the barbecue to hear what was going on with Nick. Nick leaned closer to Brock like he was about to whisper a secret. He lowered his voice but projected it so that all of them could hear and said, “Privately, just between you and me, Brock, I don’t like Eric, he’s a dick and that’s why I don’t usually join you. I’m only here for the free steak.”

 

All the guys looked at Eric’s shocked face and laughed. A moment later, when Eric, who was grinning at Nick with amusement, he said, “Fuck you, Dozer;” another chorus of laughter filled the backyard.

 

Nick winked at Eric and then turned back to Brock and added, “Well, why else would any of us come to visit Eric. I mean, honestly, the guy’s such an ass.”

 

“Careful Rawlins or else I’ll take you out onto the street and beat the shit out of you, you fucking pussy,” Eric said.

 

Nick looked at Eric with eyes that said he was amused by the private street fighting joke but the rest of the guys were just laughing at the interaction that was taking place between them.

 

“When’s the food going to be ready, Eric? I’ve already been here for eight or nine minutes. I don’t want to have to stay here with you any longer than is necessary,” Nick extended.

 

Eric looked over at James and said, “James, can you go and ask Michelle to bring out my rat poison? Tell her I forgot about it but now this rat bastard Nick Rawlins is here, I need it.”

 

There was laughter again but then Michelle appeared. She placed her hand on Nick’s shoulder to gain his attention and then handed him an open beer. “I’m so glad you’re here,” she said to him and then turned to Eric and asked how much longer before the steaks would be ready. There was nothing to it at all but Eric was still surprised by the coincidence and as his eyes opened wide, all the men, including Nick, howled with laughter.

 

Michelle asked, “What’s the joke?”

 

“Nothing,” Eric replied and then told her the steaks were ready.

 

The group broke up and headed over to the tables. Eric put all of the steaks onto two serving platters and as he started to walk he looked at Nick and said, “Who the fuck are you and what have you done with my friend?”

 

“It’s me, buddy. I’m easing in to coming out,” Nick said.

 

“Shit, if that’s what you call easing in, god help us if you ever go rushing like a bull at a gate,” Eric replied.

 

Five minutes later everyone was eating, drinking and talking. Laid-back music was drifting out of the house and the yard was lit with torches of fire, as well as normal lights that shone down from the deck. The smell of beautifully cooked meat and also fresh fruit and salad filled the air. Conversations were loud and varied but all were light and friendly.

 

As Nick watched and listened while hoeing into his steak, he realized that if Jack had spoken to everyone weeks ago, then everyone knew the suggestion about him. If they had a problem with him, no one seemed to be showing it or giving him any type of attitude. He wondered if anyone really cared.

 

James called loudly down the table, “Hey Eric?”

 

“Yeah,” Eric replied.

 

James asked, “How come everyone isn’t here?”

 

“Short notice. Not everyone could show up with only two hours notice,” Eric explained.

 

With a subtle smirk James said, “What about our captain? Where’s he?”

 

“Oh shit,” Eric said exaggeratedly, “I forgot to call him but anyone who wants to go inside and give him a call for me, is welcome.”

 

Quiet muffled remarks and murmurs passed around the two tables and there was even some laughter that followed.

 

Eric said before he chuckled, “I take it that’s a unanimous no?”

 

“Thank god for that,” a stunning woman that was sitting next to Michelle said and then another woman at the far end of their table said, “Don’t be like that, Katie” and then all the women that were spread out around both tables, chuckled knowingly as a group.

 

Tyler, who was sitting at the other table with his back to Nick, twisted around and searched for him. When he spotted Nick he said with an unreadable expression, “Hey Nick, maybe you would like to give Jack a call? I mean we’ve all heard the rumors, difficult to believe as they are but if the guy is what floats your boat, I’m sure we would all make allowances and put up with him.”

 

As Tyler turned back around, every person, woman and man, who was sitting at either table, laughed. It was now a certainty to Nick that everyone was definitely aware of what had been said about him. Still no one seemed to be treating him negatively. Only Tyler had made a comment but though it was direct, his attitude was indeterminate and Nick could not decipher if Tyler was being positive or negative.

 

No one on the team was close enough to Tyler to know him personally. It had nothing to do with unwillingness on his part; it was a matter that no one had ever attempted to really get to know him. The team knew him but they did not know him truly. He was not one to chase after new friends and so because none of the guys had showed interest in developing a friendship, he chose to mind his own business outside of team concerns. He therefore could care less what the guys thought of him behind his back and he made no attempt to dissuade them from opinions they presumed without attempting to discover the truth.

 

Outwardly Tyler came across as very straight, pussy-obsessed and he never saw a woman more than twice. He was tough and strong, built like a boxer and presented to the world a “don’t fuck with me” attitude. All of it was true. He was heterosexual, he loved sex and fucked like a rabbit but he had never met a woman who had gotten under his skin or claimed his heart. He was secure enough in himself that he thought until that happened, there was no reason to change. He was hard and strong because he had done it tough and had grown up the victim of racism and vilification. He had become who he was out of self-protection and had learned a high degree of self-respect.

 

Inwardly Tyler was intelligent, sensitive and a thoughtful man. He was open-minded, easy-going and sincere. He had never given anyone reason to think things about him that they did, however, he thought people came to conclusions for whatever their reasons. It was not as if he were hiding his true nature from anyone, it was just that he was not the type to wear his thoughts, feelings or beliefs on his sleeve.

 

No one actually knew why, where or when the assumptions had been made, however, because no one had tried to get to know him and the only knowledge about him was gossip, it was assumed by the guys on the team that because Tyler was so straight and kick-ass, he was probably homophobic as well. There were now presumptions that if a gay man ever put the hard word on Tyler, even as a joke, it would be to the man’s own detriment.

 

Nick was aware of the team’s attitude about Tyler but as he considered the position he was now in and also that Tyler had been the first to make a remark, he fearlessly and silently decided, “Why not start at the top.”

 

“He definitely doesn’t float my boat,” Nick said loudly. “I may be a gay man, Tyler, however, I like a man to be a decent person and Jack doesn’t fit that category. I think I’d choose you over Jack any day of the week,” Nick said, pushing all the assumed boundaries and coming out in one fell swoop.

 

It was done. Nick had revealed his sexuality to almost the entire team and their partners and he breathed a sigh of relief. He looked at Michelle and Eric and raised an eyebrow and then waited for the fireworks, if there were going to be any.

 

Heads turned abruptly toward Nick while others turned toward Tyler. There was a sudden silence as everyone waited for what was going to follow. What no one at either table knew at that point, was that almost everyone there had not cared that Nick said he was gay. What they cared about was that he had flirted with Tyler, something they thought would be very unwise to do. Everyone was waiting to see if a fight was about to happen. Slowly, Tyler turned around and looked at Nick.

 

“I may be one very fine and damned hot-looking black man, which I’m sure you all agree but as much as I appreciate the compliment and the offer; Nick, somehow you are either lacking certain characteristics I desire or you have certain characteristics I don’t. In effect, Nick, you don’t float my boat either, so thanks but no thanks,” Tyler said and followed with a large smile directly at Nick.

 

Sighs of relief were instant and occurred from every quarter of both tables.

 

“You’re not that hot,” Nick replied and everyone was astonished and also howled with laughter.

 

“Fuck you, Nick. You just know this shit is what you want,” Tyler said as he stood up and turned around in a model display, then gestured from the top of his head to the tips of his toes. “All the gay guys want this shit and I love that they do.”

 

The shock and the laughter was now so mixed that no one knew who was thinking what.

 

“Well maybe they do want you Tyler but I’ve already got a man and I wouldn’t trade him for the world, not even for you. I guess I’ll just have to leave you to all those lucky women,” Nick shot back.

 

There was another roar of laughter and then Nick stood and walked around the table and over to Tyler. He lifted his hand for a high five and Tyler gave it to him and said, “Right on, Brother.”

 

“Thanks man,” Nick said.

 

“Hey, we all got to be who we are, no point wearing a mask,” Tyler said.

 

As Nick was returning to his seat, Eric called out, “So Nick, are you going to let us all know what actually happened between you and Jack?”

 

Nick looked at Eric and then glanced at all the faces looking at him and said, “I don’t know if that would be appropriate?”

 

“Jack certainly had no reservations in telling all of us his side of things,” Brock said.

 

“Yeah man, so it would be nice to hear the truth,” Tyler added.

 

Nick asked, “Is anyone really all that interested?”

 

Everyone was completely caught up in the moment and almost in unison everyone called out some variation of the word yes. Nick sat down and as they all started eating and drinking again, he told everyone in attendance the important information, without going into graphic detail or revealing anything that did not need to be revealed. When the truth was out, everyone went back to talking in groups but the main topic was Jack Dawson and what a low life he was.

 

Over the rest of the evening, many of the team approached Nick and shook his hand. He received short stories of gay brothers and gay friends and gay colleagues and also some kind words of encouragement for his honesty.

 

It was not all positive of course. Two guys, Kevin and Ryan did not come near him at all and Nick noticed when he looked at them, they were huddled together whispering. When Ryan saw Nick was looking at them, he gave Nick a dirty look and then turned away. There were also the few ignorant and condescending remarks like, “It’s okay, don’t worry and I accept you” but overall, most of the people in the backyard that night, knew that people were people, whomever or whatever they were. It really was refreshing and even eye opening to Nick.

 

There was also one moment where Nick felt embarrassed before the moment had really begun. Katie had approached him and after introducing herself to him for the first time, which was the moment Nick felt his face flush and like he had done something wrong; Katie told him she believed him and that though she had been shocked in the beginning, now that Michelle had explained things to her and that she knew Jack had deceived Nick in so many ways, particularly about when they broke up, she had now reached a point where she was not at all surprised by the lengths Jack would go to get what he wanted. She finally added that she was certain she and Nick understood each other better than anyone else could. Nick agreed.

 

The evening came to an end at around ten o’clock because it was a weeknight and everyone had to work the next day. However, as they all began to amble toward the front of the house, almost all of the guys and their partners approached Nick and told him they did not want him to leave the team.

 

Nick was shocked when suddenly he was standing alone with Eric in the backyard and he looked around and saw that everyone had gone. There had been a whirlwind of voices and faces and then there was silence. He turned and looked at Eric.

 

“So Nick, that was fucking incredible. First up I have to say the way you had all the guys eating out of the palm of your hand by saying you didn’t like me and were only here for the steak, well that was brilliant. You were like a stand-up comedian winning over his audience.”

 

“I was just being honest,” Nick said with a prize-winning, straight face.

 

Eric was looking at Nick but as his brain began to process Nick’s words he said, “What?” A moment later as the realization hit and then he saw Nick holding back his amusement, Eric said, “You really can be a smartass at times.”

 

“Just trying out some new comedy,” Nick said and chuckled.

 

“Yeah, right. Anyway, when James asked where the other’s were and then mentioned Jack, all options opened and everything fell into place,” Eric said.

 

“Yes, it did, didn’t it? Rather serendipitous I’d say,” Michelle remarked smugly, on overhearing what was being said as she returned from the front yard.

 

Both men turned and looked at her and Eric gave Michelle a silencing look that Nick did not see. Continuing, Eric said, “I couldn’t believe the way Tyler confronted you and then you just swung the door open for everyone to see. I also loved the way everyone held his or her breath. It was priceless.”

 

“I suppose so but I’m guessing Tyler is not the man everyone thinks he is and he‘s not bothering to correct the assumptions. I think he’s a decent guy and everyone else has decided who he is because they don’t know or have never tried to get to know who he is,” Nick said.

 

“I’d say your conclusion is right on the money,” Michelle agreed. “In fact, after thinking the exact same thing, a little later I manipulated Tyler into sitting beside Katie and they hit it off brilliantly. I think there might be a chance for them,” she concluded.

 

“Really?” Eric said with surprise and Michelle nodded.

 

Nick smiled and then said, “Anyway guys, thank you so much for all of this. You were right and what you did here tonight made it much easier for me.”

 

“It wasn’t really us, Nick. You faced everyone and told the truth. It’s not always the case but sometimes the old adage, ‘The truth will set you free,’ can be spot on,” Michelle said.

 

“I guess so but thanks for the barbecue and for the space and time to let it all happen. I love you guys,” Nick said.

 

“That’s what friends are for, Nick,” Eric affirmed.

 

“Well, Billy will be home soon so I better get going. I can’t wait to tell him what happened here tonight,” Nick said followed by a smile.

 

“I can’t wait to see what happens when Dawson finds out,” Eric said.

 

“I don’t really care, now,” Nick said, “although, you should know that I suspect he has a couple of sidekicks who were here tonight because I received a couple of really dirty looks after everything came out in the open.”

 

Eric asked, “Who?”

 

“Kevin and Ryan,” Nick revealed.

 

“We’ll have to keep an eye on them next season but anyway, I suspected you wouldn’t particularly care what Dawson thought after tonight but I hope it all turns around on him and slams him right in the face. I hope the team tells him to go fuck himself,” Eric said.

 

“Yeah, well, anyway guys, I think I’ll hit the road,” Nick said.

 

“Take care, Nick,” Michelle said.

 

“You too, Michelle,” he said and followed with a kiss on her cheek.

 

“Talk to you later, buddy,” Eric said.

 

“Definitely, buddy,” Nick replied and gave Eric a hug.

 

Stepping away from them as they reached the front yard, Nick said, “Bye,” before he walked down the sidewalk and got into his Jeep and drove away.

 

“Damn, I can’t believe how much he’s changed in a matter of weeks,” Eric commented.

 

“I agree but it’s so good to see,” Michelle said.

 

“It is. I’m so happy to see him so comfortable in his skin,” Eric added.

 

“You set that up,” Michelle said, changing the subject abruptly.

 

“Not really, it sort of just happened the way it did,” Eric replied.

 

Michelle asked even though she was certain, “James Parsons?”

 

“Yeah,” Eric admitted.

 

Michelle questioned, “When did you tell him about all of this?”

 

“The day I met Billy. It all happened as a matter of circumstance,” Eric answered.

 

“Does Nick know? Although I assume from that look you gave me that he doesn’t and that you don’t want him to know you told someone,” she said.

 

“Chelle, I actually thought tonight that Nick wouldn’t mind and I could tell him. In fact, I think I’m going to tell him the next time I speak to him. The thing is, I did it with good intentions. You know James is trustworthy and you also know he’s gay. Krace saw Nick with Billy that day at the DMC and told James he thought they were an item. I was trying to keep things under wraps until Nick made a decision and did whatever he decided to do. I decided to tell James but I told him it was to remain confidential. I told him about Jack and therefore told him Nick was gay. It all was fine and nothing bad happened.

 

“When I rang James this afternoon and told him that Nick had decided to confront the issue, James said he wanted to be here and he left work and came. I wasn’t expecting him to say or do anything but I glanced at him at that moment and he winked at me like he was telling me to play along. Michelle, you had already whispered to me that you wondered when Nick was going to begin and then James said what he did. He had given Nick the opening he needed. All I did was add to it and everything fell into place,” Eric explained.

 

“Well next time you might let me in on your actions and then I won’t almost spill the beans that you were trying to keep a lid on. Honestly Eric, you embarrassed me a few minutes ago by making me feel like I had almost fluffed something I had no control over. Thank god Nick didn’t notice,” Michelle said with a chastising tone.

 

“I’m sorry, Chelle, it slipped my mind. I didn’t mean to keep it from you,” Eric said.

 

“Don’t worry but next time think about the consequences. Come on, let’s go and clean up the backyard,” Michelle said, still a little miffed.

 

“Sure,” Eric replied.

 

“I can’t believe the way that all went. Tyler’s initial fishing expedition into Nick’s life couldn’t have been more appropriate if he had known what he was doing,” Michelle mused aloud.

 

“Yeah,” Eric laughed, “it was unbelievable.”

 

“Synchronicity,” Michelle said and they walked into the backyard.

 

To be continued...