Shadow of my Father - 25. Chapter 25

(JOSHUA’S POINT OF VIEW)

I can’t believe the last couple days have gone by so fast. Basically this week has been nothing but studying for the semester exams. Right before Thanksgiving, we had our six weeks exams, and now before Christmas, we will have our semester exams.

Chris is doing pretty well blending back into the group. Every fear that I had is basically gone. Right now the only thing I'm worried about is Chris’ dad. Chris and the Coach got served a subpoena from Chris's dad. They have to show up to court at the beginning of January. His dad is actually petitioning the court for custody again.

I need to follow through on my promise I made to Chris those many months ago. The promise I made him that no matter what, I will help him through this battle with his dad. I need to get back in contact with Joey and Jacob. They have dealt with the system, and now know several people in the system that can help us.

Still, we have a couple more weeks before we have to really worry about that. The pressing matters of today are my father's ceremony on Friday. The President in the new Commanding General of the Army will be flying in Friday morning. By midmorning, the ceremony will be on its way and by that afternoon, my father will no longer be an active member of the US military.

Of course, we all are going to be there from beginning to end. That means we will be missing school this Friday. I have been asking Cesar to join me on Friday but he can’t get his parents to give him permission.

I really don’t think that his parents care much about me. They are rarely home and when they are, they pretty much ignore Cesar. I suspect Cesar likes to be ignored instead of having to explain everything he is doing to his parents. The little bit I can understand they don’t want to hear much of what their son has to say anyways.

All of a sudden, the TV in the classroom went on, and the Principal appeared on the screen. I looked over to Eric to see if he knew what was going on and he just shook his head. We already had our morning announcements in first period. We are now in third period, about half an hour away from lunch time.

“Teachers and students, I am sorry to interrupt your classes, but I have a very important announcement to make. I just got a call from the Superintendent informing me about the decision the School District just made.

As you all know, this Friday, the Commanding General of the U.S. Army will be handing over his duties and retiring from the military. The President of the United States will be here on Friday as well.

The four school districts decided instead of holding half day classes on Friday; we will bus you over to the UTEP Center to be part of history.” The class broke into an uproar when the Principal said there will be no classes on Friday.

“You guys will have one of the greatest honors to see history in the making. When your children are in high school and learn about this time period you will be able tell them that you were present when one of the greatest generals of our decade handed over his duties to another with the President of the United States presence.

Not every generation, gets a chance to witness history so when you get a chance, you need to take it. In the future when your kids ask you about it, you can give them a first hand account of that day.

Please get your parents to sign a permission slip to go to this event. If any student doesn't get their permission slip signed, they will stay and attend class. I truly hope that all students get their parents permission to attend this great day.”

The screen went blue, and then the TV went off. The class broke out to an uproar again. This time, they actually got out of the desks and either pounded on their desks or through their fists in the air.

I looked over to Eric once again, surprised with the school district's decision. Here I was just moments before the television turned on worried about missing Friday and also, not having Cesar with me on Friday.

Although Cesar isn't going to be able to be on the stage with my family, I’ll see him out on the audience. We can get permission for him to come back with me and my family instead of on the bus. I know my father won’t object to having Cesar in the car.

All through lunch, you can hear everyone talking at every table about our field trip on Friday. I really didn't think that my classmates would want to see this event. It's going to be nothing but speeches and politicians trying to steal the spotlight for their fifteen minutes of fame.

“You look scared Josh on what you're seeing, why is that?” I turned my attention over to Bernice, when I heard my name.

“I was thinking about the fact these guys are all happy about going to watch old guys make boring speeches. Normally on half days we watch movies. That has to be more exciting than listening to speeches.”

“Your dad hasn't told you about the bands that are going to be there? You should know more than us about what's going to happen on Friday.”

“Excuse me, what bands? What in the world are you talking about Bernice?”

“Josh, Josh, Josh, you are completely out of the loop about what's going on. Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen are going to perform. It was all over the news and newspapers yesterday, and I believe also today.”

Patrick jumped in and interrupted Bernice. “Yeah Josh, do you think these idiots are happy about going down to watch, like you say, old people give political speeches. No man, they're happy about going to watch these bands play for free.”

“You’re right on the penny Patrick! With all due respect to your father Josh, I'm happy about going because of the free entertainment and nothing more.” Frank started to hit hits fist with Patrick and the others.

To tell you the truth that explains everything about the excitement here. On the other hand, I am excited about my father finally retiring from the military. Although he will not be living at home still, at least he is no longer in harms way anymore. No more worries about that call coming in the middle of the night.

After eating, we started heading over to the library. We stopped going outside, because it's getting kind of chilly. On our way up to the library, I took that opportunity to talk with Cesar about Friday.

“Now that it's going to be a school event, do you think that your parents are going to give you permission to go on Friday? I don't see how they will say no because that is now a school event.”

“I don't see them saying no either. Basically anything I put in front of them dealing with school they sign off on. My concern is what we are going to do after the school bus drops me back off here at school. You will be too busy with your family to come and get me.”

“I will never be too busy to be with you. Cesar, what I was thinking is that you go down to the UTEP Center with the rest of the school, then when the event is over, we get permission for you to come home with me.”

“You guys haven't read the attached letter to our parents have you?” We both shook our heads as Chris pulled out a permission slip. “Look here. Almost at the bottom it says that a parent can pick up their children at the stadium. All they have to do is mark this box and sign it. That way, the school knows, you will not be returning on the bus.”

“So they have to sign in two different areas on the permission slip?”

“No Cesar, they signed either here, given just permission to go to the event, but will be bus back and forth. Or they sign here, in which states what I just said. They don’t have to sign the permission slip twice. Only once.”

The rest of the lunch period, we sat in the library making plans for Friday. I still have to run them by my father, but I don't see a reason he will have any objections. In fact, I think he would prefer it. Lately he's been very jumpy about where we go and with whom.

After school, Bernice joined me, Cesar and Chris to study. This time I called home and gave my grandmother a heads up on the extra guest. I don't want her to be caught by surprise when Bernice walks in the door.

Ever since Bernice and Eric started to date, they have been studying together. Today, Eric has a doctor’s appointment after school. His family sees their family doctor every six months for a checkup. When I say check up, I mean, they check everything from head to toe including their teeth.

Since we really don’t have homework, it didn't take as much time to finish. All we did is study the chapters are teachers gave us for tonight. I find it so funny because the semester exams go over everything we learned in the last eighteen weeks of school. That means we are going to be tested on everything.

We spent the rest of time talking about all different sorts of things. It sounds like Bernice and Eric are thinking about taking their relationship to the next level and Bernice is kind of worried. She is asking us for advice on that.

“The way I see it Bernice, if you guys truly love each other and want to be with each other, it can wait. Love making can be held back until you guys are out of school.” I got interrupted by Chris before I could finish.

“Wait a minute Josh, we didn't wait very long. So why tell Bernice here to wait when we didn't. More than likely you and Cesar have gone further than kissing I suspect.”

“If you would let me finish, I was about to clear that up, Chris. I don’t like or appreciate broadcasts of our relationship or the assumptions of mine and Cesar’s level of activity. I would like it in the future that you would not talk about what we had done or didn't do with anybody.”

“Okay, there Josh. There is no need to get like that with Chris. He was just making a point and he knows that you told me everything about the relationship between you two.” Bernice interrupting me again just like Chris, before I could finish my thoughts!

At this point, I started to get angry. These two are assuming things and putting words in my mouth. They know that that is one of my pet peeves with people.

“First, Bernice, what I spoke with you about was a confidence, and it was us alone, not in a group setting like we are today. Second there are assumptions being made without facts to back them up with. And finally, you guys keep interrupting me before I could even finish what I was saying. You guys aren’t getting the complete thought.”

I looked around the room, and everyone was just staring at me. When people start assuming things about me or putting words in my mouth, it quickly changes my mood. I was in a very good mood until assumptions were verbalized and words were being put in my mouth.

“Now like I was saying before I was interrupted twice. To answer your interruption Chris, it is different between two guys than it is between a guy and a woman. We use condoms to protect ourselves from any sexual transmitted diseases. That's the only thing we have to fear, but not so for Bernice and Eric.

Bernice can get pregnant if they aren’t careful. I'm not saying they're not going to be careful, but a lot of things can go wrong. If they can wait as they should, they could do this on their wedding night. That something we can never have, because under the law as written, we aren’t recognized.”

“I just don't want Eric to leave me because I'm not willing or ready to have sex right now. There are so many girls at our school that are willing to give it up. If Eric sees that, he might actually go to them, instead of waiting for me.”

“I know Eric better than anyone in this room. We grew up together and know each other’s secrets. The Eric I know will never pressure you into anything you don’t want to do. He will wait as long as needed for you to get comfortable. You don’t want to become an afterschool special for the rest of us at school.”

“I know you're right Josh and I see you and what you are telling me. I want to feel that kind of connection with Eric. The way you talk about is as if you're walking on water while you are together with the one you love.”

I looked at Cesar, and then over to Chris. I need to walk a fine line at this point forward. I can actually put my foot in my mouth and anger Cesar.

“I have been lucky in my young teenage life. I know I still have a long life ahead of me and a lot to learn about love, but I have been lucky so far. I have had the honor to love two great guys in my life.

I found Chris during the time of my life that I was terrified of what I was feeling and thinking. We both worked through our fears and fell in love with each other through all the obstacles that were thrown in front of us and trust me there was a lot. We were able to find our true selves through it all.

When I lost Chris I never thought I could love another like that again until I met Cesar. Cesar picked me up when I was down and helped me put myself back together. Yes, I had my friends help along the way, but Cesar could see what I was going through. He left it up to me to be ready for another relationship. When I was, Cesar was waiting for me.

Yes, I have had relations with both of the guys I have fallen in love with. Each one is completely different from the other. They both, in different ways, made me feel like I’m walking on water when I was with them having sex.

I guess what I'm trying to say here, Bernice is that it is different for every person when they have sex for the first time. Before I ever had sex I was sure that I was in love with the guy and I was not being forced because of a fear of losing them if I didn’t. You going to have sex with Eric, you must do it for the right reasons, not the wrong ones.

I'm madly in love with Cesar, because we waited before doing anything. I wanted to make sure that it wasn't just lust of a teenage boy, but love. The entire time, Cesar waited until I was ready. Eric will do the same for you and I know that because he is my best friend.”

I looked around the room into each of the faces to make sure I didn't anger any of them. Chris already knows my feelings about Cesar and the most he is going to get from me is a friendship. Cesar should also know that I love him no matter what.

“You are right Josh. I am glad that I spoke with you. I am going to wait until I am ready to have sex. I know, thanks to you Josh, Eric will wait for me.”

As we were heading downstairs to watch TV until, Bernice's father arrived. Cesar stopped me at the top of the stairs. I looked into his eyes and I see nothing but love and care in his eyes. We kissed and hugged each other.

“You need to talk with Chris before he goes home tonight. I know you tried your best to not hurt either of us but I think Chris is hurting. I really do believe Chris is still in love with you and the only reason for that is because he hasn't found someone of his own yet.”

I agreed to speak with Chris, and made sure that everything was okay with him. I don’t want to lose Cesar as my boyfriend or Chris as a friend. In different ways, they mean a lot to me.

(CHRIS’ POINT OF VIEW)

Bernice and I walked into the den to watch TV and shortly after Josh has Cesar walked in. Every so often I would steal a glance of them sitting on the couch. They were either holding hands, whispering to each other, or even kissing. No matter what I tell myself, it hurts a lot, seeing that.

When Bernice's father arrived to pick her up only Josh walked her out to the car. Cesar and I said goodbye to her in the den as she left. Shortly after that, Josh’s grandmother called us in for dinner.

Just like in the den, I would steal glances of those two. I can see how happy they are together. I also can see what I lost when I should have been a boyfriend to Josh. He was there every step of the way when I needed him.

During dinner Josh went over the plans with his father we discussed during lunch earlier today. Mr. Lopez didn't have a problem with our plans. He will make sure that there's an extra vehicle for us on the way back.

I thanked everybody for having me as got ready to leave. Josh followed me out like always but this time he called me over to the side of the house. It looks like he is concerned about something and needs to get it off his chest. I hope he isn’t still mad about the things I said earlier in his room.

“Chris, I would like to talk with you for a few moments. It is going to be very hard for both of us to go from being boyfriends to just friends. I said some ugly things to you in a while back and I want to clear the air about that and what happened in the room earlier this evening.”

I looked up at him and just shook my head up and down to go on. I'm afraid to start talking because I might actually start to cry. I miss him so much still. It hurts every moment that I see him.

“No matter what happens in our lives from here on out, you will always be my first love. Man Chris, you helped me more than I ever could have helped you. When we met I was so confused and willing to do what it took to live the life that my mother wanted me to live. No matter how unhappy I would have been I would have done it.

Thanks to you, I got comfortable in my own skin. I got comfortable with the feelings and thoughts that were going through my mind and body. I got comfortable with the person I fell in love with and still love and care very much about. You did so much for me. I would never forget it.

You will always have a special part of me that no one else can ever get. We may be calling ourselves friends now, but I love you Chris, more than just a friend. I want you to know I will always be here for you no matter what. You are family and I really hope that I can lean on you as a brother.”

I just stood there looking at Josh realizing the love we had is gone and has been replaced with a different kind of love. Josh truly does love me, but not like before. I will take what I can and learn to love him the way he loves me as a brother. I really want him in my life no matter what.

“Josh thank you for clearing the air. I really needed this talk. Give me time and I will get to the point where you are now. I can’t be without you somehow involved in my life. If I can get past all the stupid things I did with you and have a solid friendship, I will be a very happy person.

I know it doesn't look like that at the moment with all the tears rolling downs my face, but I'm so happy to be your friend, and not living without you in my life at all. You were and are the greatest thing that has happened to me in my life. I want to live life knowing you will always be there for me like you just said you would be.”

Josh grabbed hold of me and brought me into his body for a hug. I wrapped my arms around him and held tight. I don't want to ever let go of this guy but I know I'm going to have too.

We did let go of each other and Josh leaned in and gave me a peck on the cheek. I returned the same gesture to him before walking off. I turned one more time and waved at Josh as he walked back into his house.

I know this might sound weird but it feels like a weight has been lifted off of me. Knowing now that I will always have Josh in my corner. I actually feel relieved now having that information.

Josh was my greatest love that I can now call my best friend. We got over the hump of being an ex to becoming friends. I can turn to him for anything and know he will have my back.

(CESAR’S POINT OF VIEW)

I know why Josh walked out with Chris and hasn't come back yet. He took my advice about taking Chris to the side to speak with him. This poor guy is lost right now and needs us to help him find his way back.

I know he understands that he and Josh will never get back together as a couple. That isn't what worries me about him. What worries me is the fact that he might actually hurt himself as he struggles to get on his feet. I couldn’t live with myself if a person hurt themselves and I could have done something about it. By encouraging Josh to talk to Chris, I am doing something positive by actually holding my distance and doing nothing.

Josh walked back in and sat back down on the couch with me. He grabbed hold of my hand and held it tight as we watch television. I noticed he kept looking up at the wall to check the time. By the third time, Josh leaned in and whispered to me.

“You only have an hour, before you have to leave. I want to be alone with you for that hour.”

Josh got up and pulled me up with him. We walked upstairs straight into his room. Since I was last one in, I shut the door and made sure it was locked, before joining Josh on the bed. I crawled between his legs and relaxed my head on his chest.

We didn't say a word to each other at first. Josh started putting his fingers through my hair. He knows how much I love him doing that. Some how it relaxes me and lets me think a lot clearer.

Josh leaned in and started kissing the top of my head. He moved down to my ears and started nibbling at my ear lobes. After spending a few minutes doing that, he made his way to my neck and started kissing and biting.

I wrapped my arms around the back of Josh's head and pulled it towards me. As he is kissing my neck, I started kissing his cheek and part of his mouth.

Josh moved his hands underneath my shirt and started playing with my chest. I immediately got hard the minute his hands touched my nipples. Josh went back to my ears and started whispering in them.

“I love you so much. I can’t be without you anymore. Every night before I go to bed, I actually pull your briefs out and lay them beside me. I imagine you being in there, inside those briefs, but the briefs are losing your scent.”

I stopped kissing Josh and whispered back to him. “I do the same thing with the briefs you gave me. I am having the same problem that you are, and was too afraid to ask you for something else of yours.”

Josh smiled down at me and grabbed my chin and kissed me on the lips. After we kissed for a few minutes Josh spoke once again.

“You can have anything of mine that you want to take home. Never be embarrassed to ask me for anything. If I can give it to you, I will.”

I turned around to face Josh and I leaned in to kiss him. We fell against the bed and Josh wrapped his arms around my waist. As I wrapped my hands around his head and leaned in further. I kept thinking how lucky I am getting the guy that I like.

I started to kiss down Josh’s neck and stopping every so often to leave a little love bite behind. I know when I wake up in the morning I will have a few love bites of my own on my neck and I really don’t give a damn!

I can feel Josh’s cock pressing against mine. We are both hard as hell and needing relief. I started rubbing my crotch against his. Josh started to moan, so I covered his mouth with mine. We took turns with our tongues being in each others mouth.

I reached down and grabbed a hold of Josh’s hard cock through his jeans. I started to jerk him off inside his pants. He started to move back in forth because he is about to cum inside his pants. Right as he approached his climax, I let go of his cock.

I broke the kiss and got up to take off my clothes. As I was taking my shirt off, Josh undid my belt and my jeans. As Josh lowered my pants and underwear, he leaned in and took my cock into his mouth. He started to give me head right there on his bed while I am still half dressed.

I didn’t know how long I can hold it in, because we haven't had sex for a while. In fact, I haven't even jerked off, because I have been saving myself for him. Now, I kind of regret it because I might shoot way before I normally do.

As Josh was sucking on my cock, he started playing with my butt. At first he started separating my butt cheeks, and then he started putting his fingers in. He started with one finger, then two, and then he got his third finger in. Every time he went in, I went crazy.

I got off the bed and threw off my shoes, and then followed by my pants and underwear. I turned and help Josh get undressed as well. I knelt down and pulled out a box from underneath his bed that has our lubrication in it. We both keep a box like this underneath our beds handy for moments such as now when we have sex.

I squirted out some jelly and started to put it all over Josh’s cock. At the same time, Josh started to lubricate my butt. Once we felt everything was lubricated, I laid down on the bed where Josh could crawl on top of me.

He slowly entered my butt, until he was completely in. We both relaxed until I adjusted to having him inside me. Once I gave the word, Josh started to set the pace. Little by little, we got into a rhythm with each other.

I love it when Josh is inside me. He knows exactly what to do to drive me up the wall. He hits that sweet spot dead on every single time. I can never get enough of having sex with my boyfriend.

Josh wrapped his arms around my chest and pulled me against his chest. We slowly moved around on his bed until he was sitting down, and I was riding him. He lets me have complete control whenever he is inside me.

As I rode him, he grabbed a hold of my hard cock. He started to stroke me with his lubed hand matching the speed I was going up and down on him. My toes started to curl inside my socks, followed by this wonderful sensation coursing through every fiber of my body.

I started to shoot without being able to warn Josh. Then Josh grabbed a hold of my chest really tight. I can feel him shooting his hot cum in my butt. As he shot, he thrust up burying his cock as deep as possible to plant his seed deep inside me.

Josh fell back onto the bed and I on his chest. We caught our breath before doing anything else. I turned and started to kiss Josh once again on his lips. We broke the kiss. We quickly cleaned up with a handily placed towel. I needed to get dressed and get home on time.

After putting on my shirt, Josh walked up behind me and started kissing my neck. I felt his hand in my pants pocket. I grinned as I realized he is putting his boxer briefs that he was wearing today in my pocket.

After breaking the kiss Josh turned me around to face him. “I love you so much Cesar and I hope you know that.”

“I know and I love you with every ounce of my being.” I tried to put my hands in my pockets feeling for certain what Josh gave me. “Thank you babe, and I left you something underneath your pillow was well.”

Josh smiled at me and gave me a quick peck on the lips before walking out of his room. I grabbed my backpack from the hallway and said goodbye to Josh's family as I made my way to the front door.

I turned and kissed Josh one more time before leaving. This time when we broke the kiss, Josh actually is crying. I wiped the tears away from his face and leaned in to kiss him once again.

“Josh I hope these tears are tears of joy. I can’t stand seeing you hurting for any reason. Please tell me these are tears of joy.”

Josh shook his head in the positive as he wiped tears from his face and smiled back at me. I can tell. He isn't lying to me. These are tears of joy. I have already learned all the faces that Josh makes and this face is his happy one.

I left Josh's house so happy that nothing can bring me down at this moment. Whenever I get to be with Josh, I am happy for days. I really do hope when I wake up in the morning. I have love bytes from my boyfriend I can show off to the world.

(JOSHUA’S POINT OF VIEW)

After Cesar left I watched TV with my brothers for couple hours before heading up to bed. Once I got back to my room, I changed and lay down on my bed. Just hours ago, I had my boyfriend in here and we were making love. That is when I remembered that Cesar left something underneath my pillow.

I quickly picked up my pillow to see what he had left me. I just sat there looking at the box lying underneath my pillow. I actually am frozen right where I'm sitting. I finally picked up the box and opened it.

I couldn't believe what Cesar got me for no reason at all. I pulled out the watch and took a closer look at. It looks like the very expensive watch for someone to be buying another so early on in their relationship.

I looked back down in the box and saw little card. I pulled it out and read the card. It was written in Cesar's handwriting: I mean every word that is engraved on the back of the watch. With all my love always, Cesar. I flipped the watch over and saw the engraving for the first time since I opened the box and pulled out to watch.

‘My heart will always be yours, love forever Cesar!’

I put the watch on, and it fit perfectly on my wrist. I lay down on the bed and just looked at my watch that Cesar gave me. I don't know when I finally went to sleep, but I do know I had the greatest night’s sleep since I could remember.

The next morning I got up earlier than normal and headed downstairs. I knew my father would be awake and having his morning coffee before heading off to work. I walked in the kitchen and yes, I found him sitting there. He looked up at me and smiled.

“Why are you up so early in the morning?” My father said as he lay down the newspaper on the table.

I sat down next to my father and pulled off the watch that Cesar gave me. I handed it over to my father and he grabbed it. He looked at, and then up to me and back to the watch him. I flipped the watch over so he can see the engraving.

“Well, this is surprising to say the least. This boy really loves you Josh and he isn't afraid to let you know the feelings he has for you. This isn't a Wal-Mart kind of watch. It is a very expensive watch. In fact, I suspect it is a very old watch.”

“What do you mean by a very old watch dad? If it belongs to his family and he inherited it in some way or another, I would want him to keep it instead of giving it to me.”

“You got the jest of what I was saying about it being an old watch. But you don’t give back a gift that has been given to you. Cesar really loves you and I can pretty much guarantee he gave this a lot of thought before giving it to you. Don’t give this watch back because the end result would be you hurting him deeply.”

“I know you're right dad and I don't have any plans on giving it back to him. What I want to do is buy him a gift as well. I saved up my allowance, and I have almost one hundred and sixty dollars to spend. I was wondering if that would be enough to get him something nice like this.”

“I really do think that Cesar would like anything you gave him no matter what the price of the item is. I want you to think about this and be sure that you want to buy him something. Not because you feel obligated to do it but because you want to do.

A gift of any kind has to be from the heart if it is to have deep and true meaning. This watch that Cesar gave you is from the heart. A family heirloom is something that is passed down for generations and when given, it is given out of love.”

“I don't know how to explain this dad. I feel so different with Cesar than I did with Chris. I know that we haven't been going out that long, but I love him dad. I really want to buy him something and have been wanting to for at least a couple weeks now.”

My dad handed me back my watch as he picked up his cup of coffee. After taking a drink of his coffee he put the cup back on the table and looked into my eyes. I know he's searching to see if I'm telling him the truth.

“Then what we need to do is get you to a store. You can’t ask somebody else to buy a gift for Cesar. When you walk into a store, the right gift will pop out at you. Your heart and mind will guide you to the right gift.

How about we go to the mall on Saturday for you to buy a gift for Cesar. Okay? That also will give you enough time to think of the engraving you want to put on it. But don't spend too much time thinking about it. Don’t over-think it. Just let your heart guide your hand as you write out your engraving.”

I agreed with my father, and headed back upstairs to get ready for school. After getting dressed and combing my hair, I headed out. All the way to school, I kept looking at the watch around my wrist that Cesar gave me. I couldn't be happier than I am at this very moment in time.

As I walked up to the building, I saw Cesar waiting for me at the entrance. I walked up to him and grabbed his hand. I pulled him into the nearest restroom. We made sure no one else was in here before we started talking.

“You really know how to spoil a person. I love you so damn much! I can’t stand being away from you anymore. Thank you for the words, and the gift that you gave me last night. Not only this….” I pointed the watch, and then my chest; “But this as well, I will cherish both of these gifts as long as I live.”

I kissed him on the lips, as I held him tight into my body. I don't want to ever let go, because when I do, I feel very empty without him. We let go of each other, just in time as another student walked in. We turned and smiled at each other as we washed our hands, and headed out to the cafeteria.

During breakfast, I let everybody know that the plans that we made yesterday at lunch are a go. Everyone seemed pretty happy and can’t wait for tomorrow. In fact, the entire cafeteria is talking about tomorrow.

As we were heading to class I asked Cesar if his parents signed permission slip. Cesar pulled it out and showed me. Not only they signed it, but in the area of letting the school know that Cesar will be picked up at the end of the event.

I looked at him and couldn't help but smile. We headed into class, and waited for the final bell to ring. Much of the day was filled with nothing but movie watching except for my ROTC class.

They actually have us outside marching in the cold wind. I would like to see Major Moore and Sergeant Haney out here marching with the cold wind hitting them. I know they would give us some kind of speech about how it is in the military.

As we piled back into the large classroom, Major Moore kept us at attention. We all looked at each other to try and figure out why he isn't allowed us to take our seats. Nobody looks like they know what is going on.

“Ladies and gentlemen please stand at ease and take your seats. Colonel May has sent out a letter to all battalions concerning tomorrow’s event. The letter reads as follows:

All battalions in the First Brigade are ordered to appear in Class A uniforms. There is no exception to this order. Your battalion is to form and take attendance before loading on to their individual buses that will take them to the UTEP Center.

Once you arrived at the UTEP Center, you will be escorted onto the field and join the other battalions of the First Brigade. We will form the Brigade alongside the other three brigades in our city.

This will be the first time that all four brigades will form together since they were formed. Please keep in mind what you are representing. Each of you represents the future of our military. You will have the greatest honor, no only to have the Commanding General of the Army, but the President, our Commander-in-Chief, in front of you.

You will have front row seats for the entire event. At all times remember that you all are representing not only yourself, but your battalion, brigade and city. Have fun and remember to stay in complete uniform, the entire time.”

Major Moore put the letter back on the podium and looked out to us. “With you being in uniform tomorrow, there will be no uniform day next week. That is all I have for you ladies and gentlemen, and we will see you tomorrow morning bright and early.”

Major Moore walked up to me, and pulled me to the side. “You and your brothers are the only exceptions to this order. We understand that you will be accompanying your father the entire time. That means you will be in suits and not uniform.

I know we have had our differences throughout the year, but I hope that if asked about the program, you don’t speak ill of the program, because of our differences. I believe we finally have come to see eye to eye on most everything.”

I looked straight into Major Moore's eyes and see the worry in them. “I promise that I will not speak badly about you, the program or anyone within the program. I believe like you do that we have finally passed the crossroads of our differences. There is no reason for me to speak badly about something that I have grown to like.”

The look of worry in Major Moore's face got replaced with a look of relief, and then a smile actually crept across his face. The bell rang, and I jogged over to the main building to find Eric waiting for me or our final class.

The rest the day went by pretty quickly, and once the final bell rang I went straight to my locker and couldn't wait to start the long weekend. One more week of school and then we are officially on our Christmas break.

Everyone join me as I walked to my house. We figure since it is a long weekend, there is no need to study tonight. We can do that on either Saturday or Sunday. Instead we are going to hang around the house and find something to do that is fun and nothing to do with school and the tests to come.

(DANIEL SR’s POINT OF VIEW)

As I woke up in the morning I set up and looked over towards my door where my uniform is hanging. Today is going to be the last day of me putting on my military uniform. I will no longer command the young men and women of our nation on the battlefield; something I love and will always love.

After dressing I left my uniform jacket on the hanger ready to be put on last. I went down the hall making sure all the kids are awake and getting ready for today’s events. This isn’t a day to run late one single minute.

We are to be out of the house and on our way to the airport to greet President Bush as he arrives. From there we are to make our way to the UTEP Center. We need to be there by nine o'clock in order to get the President back to Washington on time.

All four are my sons came down the stairs at the same time. As they walked into the kitchen, I couldn't believe how grown up they have become. They are all young men and about to leave the nest in the next couple of years.

We sat around the table talking, as my mother prepared a small breakfast. As we started to eat, Rich walked through the door. He wanted to talk a little bit of office work but told him ‘not today’. He needs to enjoy at least one day of celebration. We will be in the deep end of pool plenty soon enough.

We all helped my mother clean up the kitchen, and then put on our suit jackets. Josh walked up to me and straightened up my tie, whispering to me on how proud he is of me. Of all the people that have told me that, it means so much more coming from my son.

We walked out and found a convoy of vehicles including limousines in front of the house. I know I am going to have to get used to riding in a limousine and having a security detail with me at all times but it's going to be hard. I have always been a Ford type of guy driving myself wherever I want to go.

After settling into the limousine we started our way to the airport. The secondary roads, main roads, and the freeway got closed off for my convoy. I really don't like the idea because I can imagine the traffic jams this is causing.

To my surprise, we got to the airport ahead of schedule. Air Force One hasn’t even landed yet as we drove onto the tarmac. The President's entourage is already in wait for the President's arrival.

About five minutes later I see Air Force One approaching the airport. As I stepped out of limousine cameras started flashing as the reporters yelled out question after question at me. I just turned and waved at them. I promised them that, in due course, I will answer any questions they may have for me.

Air Force One came to a complete stop and a truck pushed the stairs up to the door. Once the door opened, the band began to play. Several of the President's high aids walked out before he even stepped out of the plane.

The minute, President Bush stepped out, the crowd went into an up roar with applause. He waved at the crowd as he made his way down the stairs. He saluted the soldiers on each side of him as he approached me. I came to attention and brought up my salute. He returned the salute as he grabbed a hold of my arm to turn me around to walk with him.

We walked to the rope line and started shaking hands of as many people as we could at the same time we answered any questions and took pictures, if asked. We did this for about fifteen minutes until someone from his office pulled us away.

Once we arrived back at the limousines, the President greeted my sons. He actually remembered who was who. As he reached my son Josh, he leaned into him, and spoke; “I like what you did on behalf of your father on the campaign trail. Never run or hide from who you are from anyone. You have reached a level of maturity that many will never achieve in their lifetime.”

Josh smiled at him and thanked the President for his kind words. The President asked me to drive with him in his limousine as we make our way to the UTEP center. Of course I agreed, and we got into the limousine.

The entire way the President and I talked about what I'm going to do as Governor of the State of Texas. I explained what I plan to do from beginning to end. Every so often the President would stop me and asked me to clarify certain things. Once I finished up, the President looked at me, and spoke.

“If you get only a quarter of that done, you will be reelected. We have done polling on you to see where you stand, not only in the state of Texas, but nationwide. I still have to win my reelection, but we are looking for candidates to run in four years on the Republican ticket.”

“Well Sir, with all due respect, I have no plans to leave the Governorship of Texas. I'm not even looking at reelection for the Governorship, much less a higher office. I have found that those that we elect into office will not make the hard decisions that are needed, because they are afraid of losing their reelection campaigns.”

“I agree with you on that General, but sometimes you got to do what you don't like to do in order to keep your seat. I ran on a campaign platform of no new taxes and the Democratic Congress pushed them down my throat anyway and I had no other choice but to sign it.

That is going to come back to haunt me in my reelection campaign. I can pretty much tell you that I am more likely going to face the Governor of Arkansas in the general election. He is going to beat me over the head with something that was out on my control.

He will confuse the electorate on who actually passes the laws of this land. I'm going to be put out there as the one that pushed the tax increase because I signed it. Never mind that it is the Congress, our legislative branch that passes our laws.”

I sat there listening to the President as he spoke about his reelection bid. He seems to know that he has an uphill battle to fight. I really think he fears the election because of that one promise he couldn't carry out.

“I will not sign any bill that goes against what I have promised the people of Texas. I know it is easier said than done, especially coming from a person that has not held an elected office yet. But as surely as I am sitting here, I will do everything that I can to ensure that my promises aren’t broken.”

At that moment we drove up to the Stadium. The President got pulled to another area, the minute we got out of the limousine. I joined my family in a different room. You can hear the crowd outside singing along with the band.

“I bet you guys wanted to see the bands that are playing here today. I’m so sorry taking you away from the chance of seeing the bands that you guys like.”

All of my kids said no at the same time trying to reassure me that they are here today because of me and nothing else.

All of a sudden the music stopped, and you heard nothing but silence. The door opened and a gentleman in a suit walked in. He waved us over giving us instructions on what we are to do next.

Someone started to speak or the PA system. He is welcoming the crowd, and then went into his speech. Right before the speech ended, the new Commanding General walked past me with his family.

Another person got onto the PA and started introducing those that are on the stage right now. Then he brought out the soon to be Commanding General of the US Army. The crowd started to clap as he made his way to the stage.

The same guy that brought us out of our room escorted us to the ramp that leads out to the field. The crowd got quiet as the guy in the PA system started to talk.

“Ladies and gentleman, please welcome a native from El Paso, Texas. The current commanding general of the United States Army, and soon to be the Governor of the great State of Texas, Major General Daniel Lopez and his family.”

I start walking up the ramp and out on the field with my family at my side. The minute I stepped onto the field, the crowd got on their feet. The young men and women of our military and soon to be part of our military were brought to attention and saluted me.

I did not return a salute until I was on the stage and faced their commanding officers. After saluting the men and women of our military, I turned and started to shake hands with everyone on the stage. This is the first time I stood face-to-face with the man that is going to replace me.

The announcer got the crowd to settle down in order to bring out the President. “Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand and welcome the forty first President of the United States of America, President George H. W. Bush.”

The crowd went right back on their feet and started applauding as the President made his way to the stage. Just like I did when I reached the stage, the President turned and saluted the men and women of our military before shaking hands with everybody on the stage.

As soon as we took our seats, several politicians from the state of Texas, spoke to the crowd. Finally, the announcer got up and reintroduced the President. President Bush got up from his seat and walked over to the podium. He cleared his throat after taking a drink of water from his bottle and started talking.

“My fellow Americans, distinguished guests, men and women of our military and the citizens of the great State of Texas, thank you for giving me some of your time today. We are here to not only turn over the power of one of our highest offices in the military but to honor a great man that is leaving the post to serve the great State of Texas.”

The crowd started to applaud after the President said Texas. “General Daniel Lopez has distinguished himself as an officer during peacetime and when our nation needed him the most, during our darkest times of war.

He fought tooth and nail to go back to join his men and women on the battlefield in Iraq. He wasn't hurt on the battlefield that made him unable to return, but his help was needed here at home. He had to help to get our military ready for the second phase in Iraq that we did not take due to Saddam Hussein pulling back behind his borders some years ago.

General Lopez leaves our military as one of the most decorated officers of his generation. The only military officer to receive one of the highest awards from the Queen of Great Britain! No other soldier could say they were Knighted by the Queen of England.”

The President went on to talk about my accomplishments in the military. He also awarded me several more medals and my final star, making me a four-star general. It isn't a wasted or merely symbolic promotion. I'm still in the reserves to finish off the remaining of my tour in the military.

“Although our nation is losing a great general, a great leader and a great teacher to the young men and women of our military, the state of Texas is gaining a great governor. There is no doubt in my mind that General Lopez will serve the state of Texas with courage, honor and dignity as he served the nation in the military.

I am going to miss picking up the phone and asking this man his opinions about war strategies and what he thinks about world events. Thank you, General Lopez for your years of service and I wish you all the best in your endeavors.”

The crowd shot to their feet in applause, as every military man and woman went back to attention as I got up and shook the hand of the President. The President returned to the podium and officially appointed the new Commanding General of the Army.

He made a few remarks before, we shook hands. He will not be stationed here at Fort Bliss, Texas. Instead he is going to take the office back to Washington. I wish him all the best when he does that.

I pulled the office out of Washington as far as I could because I did not want the politicians in Washington to play games with our military! I appeared when I was summoned, but I did not keep my office there.

As soon as the speeches were finished, and the military moved off of the field. A stage was set up. Bon Jovi walked onto the stage and started the show. I turned to look at my kids and saw that they are enjoying the show.

About halfway through, Bon Jovi, brought me and the President onto the stage. Of course, I pulled my kids on the stage as well, where they can meet the singer. After a couple songs, we made our way back to our seats so Bon Jovi could finish his performance and Bruce Springsteen can begin his.

Bruce Springsteen did not walk onto the stage when he started singing. Instead, he rose from beneath the stage. The crowd went crazy the minute Bruce Springsteen appeared on the stage. It seems the crowd loves his older music more than his new music. I think is because they know the lyrics and can sing along with him.

Just like with Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen pulled me in the President on the stage. Just like with Bon Jovi, I brought my kids all along with me and both times they loved it. I can see they're having the time of their lives on the stage.

This time as we walked off the stage, I asked the kids where their friends were sitting at. They told me and I instructed my guard detail to bring them back stage where they can meet the two artists.

I know this will make my kids very happy if their friends could also meet Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen. I know if I had a chance to have my friends meet a rock star I would have jumped at the opportunity.

As soon as the show was over, we got escorted backstage. As we walked up the tunnel all of my kid’s friends are waiting for them. This time we got escorted to a different room. In fact it is a larger room than the room we were in before.

A few moments after we walked in, both Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi came in. Immediately the kids crowded around them and started asking for autographs on whatever sheet of paper they could grab quickly.

They actually took the time to speak with the kids. Instead of autographing the pieces of paper, the kids picked up. They asked their entourage to bring pictures of them to sign instead. It seems all the kids were beyond ecstatic with that!

After signing pictures for the kids, they gave special items to my kids. If they will save the items that were given to them, those items will be worth money, one day. I know I don't have to tell my kids that.

I met both of the artists once again in private alongside my kids. They seem to be regular people with regular lives. They put on a show and look all tough, but they're not. Instead I am actually surprised just how regular they are.

We sat there talking for a while as the stadium cleared out. The President already had left before the audience was released. He needed to get back to Washington DC for some kind of meeting later today.

After getting to know both of these artists, they grew on me. I invited them to my inauguration as guests, not as performers. Both of them accepted and I asked Rich to follow through on making sure they get what is needed to be present as my guests.

After gathering all the kids and saying goodbye to Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen, we headed over to the limousines and the convoy. As we walked over a face in the crowd grabbed my attention as we reached the limousines. All the kids jumped into their limousine as my mother and I walked over to mine.

I looked into the crowd to see if I was imagining what I thought I saw. I scanned the crowd quickly, and then scanned it again. That is when I saw Martha standing there at the rope line. She didn't look too happy. I really don't care.

I got into the limousine looking at Martha, the entire time. Martha had plenty of chances to change her way of thinking. Not only did she choose not to change, she got worse and that I can’t have around our kids. When we pass on, the greatest gift that we as parents can leave behind on this Earth is our kids! She had forgotten that over the years.

As we started to leave the UTEP center, I waved at the crowd that stuck around. Seeing those faces got me thinking about the days to come. It is not going to get any easier for me. I need to make sure that I am on the top of my game from here on out. Too many people are depending on me to make the right decisions for them.

TO BE CONTINUED…………………

WRITER’S CORNER:

{A plot that has been at the core of this story since it began got closed off. Governor Elect Lopez is now officially retired from the active military. This part of his life is now behind him and he is about to step into a new chapter of his life. A chapter that is new to him and he’s got to start learning quickly.

As you can see in this chapter also we had a visit from the President of the United States. Some of the facts that were talked between the President and the Governor Elect occurred in actual history. Of course, this event didn't happen, but what the President said on the ride to the UTEP Center did.

Those that are into presidential politics can remember the famous line that President George H. W. Bush said during his bid for the presidency. ‘Read my lips; no new taxes!’ That is what buried him on his reelection campaign. I know others will have a difference of opinion on what caused President Bush to lose his reelection.

Now we see there is something going on between Bernice and Eric. What I mean by that is the conversation Bernice had with Joshua, Cesar and Chris. I agree with Josh about her waiting at least a little bit longer. They haven't even completed their junior year in high school and if they make a mistake, it will change their plans for college and everything else. The mistake will actually stay with them for the rest of their lives.

I really hope that Bernice is true to her word and doesn't have sex with Eric. Several chapters ago, I left it up to you the readers in this very corner on what to do about this topic. I never got one e-mail from any of my readers on where the go with the topic of sex between Eric and Bernice. You still have time to drop me an e-mail on this topic.

It looks like Chris and Josh got over the hump between boyfriends and friends. I really do believe these two are going to become very good and close friends in the chapters to come. Their friendship will be so strong. Nothing can come between them as friends.

Cesar and Josh's relationship also is getting better. They are getting closer and more madly in love with each other as time passes on. These two came together at the right time of their lives. It is very rare that our first loves are the ones we land up spending the rest of our lives with. I really think Cesar should thank Chris for being Josh's first love.

You can tell that Cesar is really in love with Josh because of the gift he gave him. I don't think that Cesar wanted a gift in return, but knowing Josh, he is going to follow through on what he told his father.

Martha, Martha-o- Martha, what are you doing standing at the rope lines? There is no way she's up to any good. Remember what we saw at the end of the last chapter with Martha. She is still so angry with Daniel that she can’t see clearly. I believe because of that she is not making good decisions.

If you look through history, those that have either attempted to assassinate someone or successfully assassinated someone they were not in their right mind at the time. Look at the guy that attempted to assassinate President Ronald Reagan. That stupid fool did it because he was in love with a movie star and felt this was the only way she would notice him. That is only one example of many I could give you.

So many open plots to continue to read in the future chapters! Some of the plots were not touched in this chapter, but will be back in the future ones. This story is just beginning, and there is still a lot to come.

I could stay here all day long, with all the open plots already in this story, but I won’t. I warn you though! Don’t skip a chapter, or you will be lost. There is a so much to answer in the chapters to come. Keep reading the future chapters, and enjoy! Please email me and let me know how I am doing at jacobmillertex@aol.com, Thanks!}
EDITOR’S CORNER:

Bernice and Eric; I think Josh is right, to a degree. They both need to explore the romantic, intimate side of what they are building together, but Josh’s advice to wait to consummate their love is solid. Bernice, as you will recall, is still not solidly sure of her orientation. There needs to be some exploration and experimentation to give her solid answers.

OK, Jacob, yes, I am your editor but I’m also a reader, so here’s my opinion on how deep to go into Eric and Bernice’s intimacy: I suggest that Bernice confides in Josh as things happen and develop. She won’t get into nitty-gritty details, but she will give Josh more than just clues as to what’s going on. Eric can also confide in Josh in that he’s going to be frustrated by Bernice’s reluctance to go “all the way”. Eric is motivated hormonally, but he’s also motivated by love. He’ll be able to rely on Josh to keep him centered.

Chris is on his way to being healed from his loss of Josh. There’s more to him than what meets the eye. He’s deep. He, with Josh’s support, is going to emerge as a strong person and I suspect he is going to find true love with a fantastic guy. I wonder if, in the long haul, if Chris is going to be a constant and integral part of Josh’s life as a friend and possibly as a compatriot in Josh’s life path.

Martha is going to screw up big time, I’ll bet. I’m just waiting for that shoe to drop.

I wonder what Daniel Sr. is going to do about getting a second adult presence in the house during his time away in Austin. Grandma is great, but she can’t be expected to do it all on her own. I think a male presence would be something Daniel should consider; perhaps one of the trusted security detail is asked to expand the scope of his duties?

I caught just a phrase….Josh liking ROTC ? What’s that all about???

As Jacob says, there’s so much going on and characters that didn’t make an appearance this time. I know I won’t miss a word! I hope you won’t either. Keep your thoughts and ideas coming in. I have even had a couple e-mails addressed to ME! That made me smile.

Until next time,
“Daddy” Rick