Watergame - 24. Chapter 24

In Chapter 24

Dominic and Eric enjoy sleeping together

The Parks' meet the White's

Jeff's Graduation

The Ashley-Wilson's go all out!

Jeff receives a surprise employment offer

The new pool gets completed

Kevin graduates next week, June 8th

　

* * * * * *

It's Thursday, the 31st of May and just two days before Jeff's graduation at Brighton University. Vi is busy, busy, busy. After walking Sam to the bus stop with Dominic, she has a lot to do. Art is taking Friday off, to travel to Brighton. Vi is packing a suitcase for Samantha including her prettiest dress to wear to the graduation. She is packing a large suitcase with Art's suit, and one of her own. It's going to be an exciting weekend.

She intends to have all of Dom's clothing washed and packed into plastic bags to take to Carries, and between loads, she is going by Sam's school, to tell them that Sam won't be in school on Friday, as she will be travelling with them to watch her big brother get his college diploma on Saturday. No need to explain that Jeff is not her real brother.

Carrie, the wonderful friend and neighbor that she is, suggested that Vi and Art bring Dominic over that Thursday night and have dinner with them so that the White's could get an early start for the trip to Brighton on Friday morning. Vi graciously accepted Carrie's offer.

* * * * * *

That same Thursday evening, Julian received a surprise call from Uncle Jim, and Jim asked him to step out of range from Jeff, so they could talk privately. Julian walked outside, and continued the conversation.

"Julian," Jim stated, "this is top secret, please don't discuss this call with Jeff, he has a couple of surprises coming, and we want them to be surprises. Please don't tell Jeff. They both are concerning his graduation."

"OK, Uncle Jim," Julian promised, "my lips are sealed."

"Number one," Jim said, "My parents, Jeff's grandparents, are flying up from Florida to see their only grandson graduate! They'll be staying with Elaine and Bill both Friday and Saturday nights. Cal and I are going to the airport to pick them up at 2:00 PM tomorrow, and taking them to Jeff's parents house. Jeff won't know they're here until after the graduation ceremony is over! Your parents are coming too, aren't they?"

"My Mom and Dad wouldn't miss it for the world." Julian stated, "They have a room reserved at the College Inn, but they're only bringing my little sister, Samantha. They figured Dominic was too young, and they're leaving him with Mom's friend and neighbor, Carrie Hanson. Do you have another surprise?"

"Yeah, Number two," Jim said, "This is a very special occasion, Jeff will only be graduating from college once in a lifetime. Cal and I are hosting the whole graduation party at Applebee's for a celebration dinner, right after the ceremony. That includes Jeff's parents, your parents, and of course, Sam, Jeff's Maternal grandparents, my sisters, Sasha and Jen, and their children, Leroy and Christine, and of course, you and Jeff. We've reserved the party room for our celebration party."

"Awesome!" Julian exclaimed, "who all knows about this?"

Jim, chuckling, "Everyone but Jeff, and probably your parents, I didn't know how to reach your parents, but you can tell them. Julian, Sasha and Jen, and Cal and I are all anxious to meet your parents, and Samantha. Maybe we can get together Friday evening for a while. Let me know what room your parents are in, and maybe we can pay them a visit." Jim and Julian hung up, and Julian is hoping he doesn't talk in his sleep, he has a secret to keep.

* * * * * *

Art arrived home from work Thursday evening about 6:00 PM as usual and Vi had a surprise for him, being that their family was invited to the Hanson's home for dinner that evening. Vi grabbed the bags with Dom's clothing, and Art grabbed his hi-chair and they walked to the Hanson's house, Sam holding Dominic's hand.

Carrie and Cliff welcomed them warmly, and Eric took the bags with Dom's clothing to his (and Larry's) bedroom. Carrie moved a couple of chairs to make room for Dom's hi-chair, and the double family sat to eat, Eric sitting between Sam and Dom. Eric, with a grin on his face, very willingly cut Dom's food into bite sized pieces, as he'd seen Vi do, the many times that he had meals with the White's. Carrie dug into the silver draw and produced a small fork for Dom to use.

In all the years these two families had lived as neighbors, this was the first time they'd shared a meal together. Of course, both Eric and Samantha had enjoyed meals with each other’s families too many times to count. After dinner Art made a trip back to their house to get Dom's potty, and then he and Vi thanked Carrie and Cliff for being such good neighbors, and friends, and for the very tasty dinner.

Eric, kissing and hugging Sam, "Have a good time, Sammy, I'll see you when you get back." Dominic didn't seem too upset about the departure, maybe because he was looking forward to sleeping with his friend. Dom doesn't know Cliff very well, but has developed love and trust in Carrie, and even with Larry. As Art, Vi and Sam prepared to leave Dom started to fuss.

Larry, reaching down and picking Dom up, hugging him, "Hey little man, it's only for two days, and we all love you. We'll take good care of you." Dom quieted down.

"Dom," Eric said, smiling, "you're in for a special treat, you'll get to sleep with me for two nights." Dom's frown turned into a grin. Dom had just turned three in January, and Eric is almost eight, but these two boys have a lot of love for each other. About 9:00 PM, with Eric having school the next day, Carrie put them both to bed, and told Eric to keep Dom next to the wall, so that he couldn't roll off the bed. Dom still sleeps in his crib at home.

Eric gave Dom a goodnight kiss, and cuddled with him, his arm around Dom, and holding him close. Dom was relaxed, and Eric enjoyed their closeness. They were both nearly asleep.

"Arick," Dom suddenly spoke, "I gotta tinkle."

"OK," Eric replied, getting out of the bed, "I'll take you to the bathroom." Eric helped Dom onto the floor and led him to the bathroom, where Cliff had set Dom's potty. "Here's your potty."

"I wanna tinkle in there," Dom stated, pointing at the toilet, "I need a tool."

"A tool?" Eric questioned.

"A tool, to stand on, so I can be bigger." Dom said.

"Oh," Eric said, "a stool, hold on a minute." Eric ran to the kitchen and got the small stool, brought it back and set it in front of the toilet. Dom stepped up on it, pushed his huggies down, and directed his stream into the toilet, then pulled his huggies back up. Dom reached for the handle to flush the toilet, and Eric stopped him.

"Wait," Eric said, "I might as well go too, and we can flush them together." Eric moved the stool under the sink, pulled his peter out of his fly, and tinkled into the toilet while Dom watched him. Eric reached over and pushed the flush knob, flushing their pee away, and tucked his peter back into his underwear. Eric wondered if his peter was ever as small as Dominic's, even though he only has about three inches at seven years old, he still has more than Dom has.

"Tanks, Arick," Dom said, "I feel better now."

"Lets get back to bed," Eric said, and led Dom back to the bedroom. Larry was about to go to bed and was in his boxers. He helped Dom back into Eric's bed and gave Dom a kiss on his cheek, then slipped into his own bed with a smile on his face. The two younger boys cuddled together and soon fell asleep and so did Larry.

* * * * * *

Vi was up about 7:00 AM Friday morning and made coffee. She and Art shared a couple of cups, and prepared to take off for Brighton. Art carried their luggage to the SUV and they headed out of Dunbar about 8:00 AM. They stopped at a Denny's about 10:00 AM and had breakfast.

About once each half-hour, Sam was asking, "Are we almost there?"

"It's a long trip sweetheart," Art replied, "maybe you understand now why your brothers don't come home more often, it's a long trip for them too." Sam finally lay on the back seat and fell asleep for a while. Art located the College Inn and pulled in about 3:00 PM. While Art registered them in Room 23, Sam woke up, happy that the long ride was over. As Art had promised Julian, he called Julian and told him they were here safely and were in Room 23 at the College Inn.

Art carried the luggage into the room, which contained only one full sized bed. He called the front desk and the clerk told him they would bring the cot in for them before bedtime. Art, Vi and Sam settled in, just relaxing for a while, and Sam watched cartoons on the TV. About 4:30 PM there was a knock at the door and Art answered it, expecting to see someone with a cot. It was two ladies at the door, with a young boy and girl behind them.

"Art White?" Sasha asked.

Art, smiling, "That's what my parents named me, many years ago, and who are you, might I ask?"

"You know Jim and Calvin Ashley-Wilson?" Sasha asked.

"We haven't met them," Art replied, "but we know of them, our boys are very fond of their Uncles. Won't you come in, please." The Ladies and children stepped inside the room. "We thought you were the hotel people, bringing a cot for Sam to sleep on."

"I'm Calvin's sister, Sasha Wilson, and this is my girlfriend, Jennifer Colston, and these are our children, Leroy and Christine. Kids, this is Julian's Mom and Dad, Vi and Art White, and Julian's little sister—ah—ah"

"I'm Samantha White" Sam stated, proudly. Sam is very proud to be a White, rather that the Greene that she used to be, before her adoption.

"I'm sorry," Sasha said, "I didn't know Samantha's name."

I'll bet you know it now," Art said, grinning.

The three children connected instantly. Sam shared a hug with Christine, then a hug and kiss with Leroy. The kids soon were into their own conversation.

"I think that Jim and Cal are planning to come by after they drop the grandparents off," Sasha stated, "I know they're really anxious to meet Julian's family."

"Mommy," Christine asked Sasha, excitedly, "can Sammy sleep over with us tonight?" Vi and Art realized that these children both refer to these ladies as 'Mommy.'

"I think," Jen stated, "It'll be fine with us, if it's ok with Sam's Mommy and Daddy."

Samantha, putting on the pressure, "Can I Mommy, can I Daddy?"

Art, considering, "Are you going to attend Jeff's graduation tomorrow?"

"Of course," Sasha replied, "Jeff is an outstanding young man, and we'll want to be there to congratulate him. Do you know about the celebration after?"

What celebration?" Art inquired.

"Our brothers are planning a graduation party for Jeff," Sasha explained, "after the ceremony tomorrow, for the whole family. Please don't tell Jeff, it's a complete surprise, and he's in for another surprise too. His grandparents, Jim and Elaine’s parents, are flying in from Florida to see Jeff graduate. Jim and Cal are picking them up at the airport this afternoon, and taking them directly to Bill and Elaine’s."

"Sasha," Art asked, "if Sam stays over with you tonight, can you bring her to the ceremony tomorrow with you?"

"Not a problem," Jen stated, "does she have anything special to wear?"

"Her prettiest dress is in her suitcase," Vi stated.

"This will be neat," Jen stated, "we'll have two pretty girls and a handsome young man to get ready in the morning. They'll be looking they’re finest."

Jim and Cal came by about 5:15 and introduced themselves to Vi and Art, and Samantha. They confirmed that they had reserved the party room at Applebee's for Jeff's graduation party, that he doesn't know about. They all decided to go to Pizza Hut for dinner that night, and the children were all excited. Leroy carried Sam's suitcase out to Jen and Sasha's car, and Sam rode with them to Pizza Hut. Jim and Cal drove to Pizza Hut, taking Art and Vi with them, giving them a little more time together, as they'd never met before today. Vi and Art quickly grew to like the somewhat recently married husbands, as well as Sasha and Jennifer.

When they all left Pizza Hut, Sam went home with Jen and Sasha, and Cal drove Vi and Art back to their Motel room. Jim and Cal are a very warm couple, and the White's could see a part of what J&J loved about spending time with them. If Vi and Art knew of Leroy and Christine’s casual habits at home, they might not have let Sam sleep over with them.

* * * * * *

Friday morning J&J pulled themselves out of the bed, dressed and hooked up with Levi and Caleb for breakfast in the dining hall, likely for the last time. Jeff is graduating tomorrow and won't be coming back. Levi and Julian will be returning in the fall as seniors, and Caleb as a junior. After breakfast, Jeff needed to go to the Student Activity Building and get his black graduation gown and hat.

J&J spent most of Friday packing. It was likely that J&J might both head to Dunbar after the Graduation Ceremony. Jeff packed his books and other useless items separately, planning to send them home to Summerton with his parents. J&J cleaned out their dorm room, only keeping their toiletries and the clothes they would wear tomorrow handy, and packing everything else in Jeff's car.

About 8:00 PM Matt and Cliff walked into their room, and invited J&J to go out with them and share a last time pizza and a couple cold brews. Matt and Cliff are also graduating tomorrow. It was a happy and sad time for the seniors, the end of an era. Julian was happy to have been included, but he is still not quite twenty, and had to settle for Pepsi. The boys returned to the campus about 11:00 PM and shared last time hugs and a ton of tears. They promised to stay in touch with each other, but J&J know that it's likely they will never see Matt and Cliff again, after tomorrow.

J&J shared the only one of the twin beds that was sheeted, and prepared to spend their last night together in this dorm room. Julian has another year here at Brighton, and not a clue as to whom he might get as a dorm mate, come fall.

* * * * * *

Shortly after Easter, Sasha and Jen made an economical move. Jen was renting a two bedroom home, and Leroy and Christine had to share a bedroom, with twin beds. Sasha had purchased her three bedroom home, which would allow the children to have their own separate bedrooms. The monthly mortgage payment on her home was nearly a hundred less than the rent on Jen's home. Sasha's home is only about three blocks from Jim and Cal's house, and on the same road. Cal and Sasha are close siblings, and it is convenient to live close to each other.

Sasha and Jen don't go out often, but when they do, Jim and Cal are often available to watch over their Nephew and Niece. They have nothing but love for these two children, and the feeling is mutual.

Soon after arriving from Pizza Hut, Sasha and Jen encouraged the children to get ready for bed. Both Leroy and Christine still had their same twin beds they had slept in at Jen's house, before the move, but now have separate rooms. It was assumed that Samantha would share Christine's bed. Sam opened her suitcase and retrieved her pajamas.

"Oh!" Christine exclaimed, "You wear pajamas."

"Yeah," Sam replied, "what do you wear to bed?"

Christine, giggling, "nothing, usually. We like the feeling of sleeping naked, pajamas sometime get twisted around us, and wake us up." As she spoke, Christine was removing all of her clothes. Samantha grinned. The only other girl she'd ever seen naked was Penny, but Penny did wear pajamas.

"Mommy always makes me put on pajamas," Sam stated, "but it might be fun to sleep without them. I'll try it." Sam put her pajamas back into the suitcase, and proceeded to get naked, and Christine turned out the light. Both girls crawled into bed, giggling. To Sam it felt strange, but nice, to feel Christine's naked body next to hers. They shared goodnight kisses on each other's cheeks and cuddled up together. A few minutes later they were asleep.

About 8:00 AM on Saturday morning both girls awakened, needing to tinkle.

"I gotta tinkle!" Sam stated.

"Me too," Christine replied, lets go together, bathrooms this way."

"Wait," Sam said, "we're not dressed!"

"Don't need clothes on to tinkle," Christine stated, "Come on." Sam followed Christine into the bathroom, and Christine didn't bother to close the door. Christine told Sam to go first, and Sam quickly sat on the toilet and drained her bladder. Sam wiped her pee slit, and got up.

"My turn," Christine said, sitting down, and starting to tinkle. Leroy, naked, stepped into the bathroom. Sam attempted to cover her private area.

"Sam, don't worry about that," Leroy stated, "I know what girls look like, down there, hurry up sis, I'm about to spring a leak!" Christine wiped and slid off the toilet seat, Leroy raised the seat and started to tinkle into the toilet with both girls watching. Sam was amused, having never seen a boy tinkle before, up close. She observed that Leroy's peter was maybe just a little bigger than Peter's or Eric's peters. She'd seen theirs, but never had seen them tinkle.

After finishing, and shaking off those last couple of drops, Leroy turned to face his sister, hugged her and gave her a kiss stating "Morning, Sis." Then, turning to Samantha, "Sam, can I give you a morning kiss?" Sam pursed her lips, like a fish, and Leroy gave her a similar hug and kiss like he did his sister, but his peter touched Sam's vagina, very lightly.

"That tickles," Sam said, giggling. All three children giggled, then returned to their bedrooms.

"Christine," Sam asked, "have you seen Leroy naked before?"

"Sure," Christine replied, grinning, "almost every day. Leroy and I have nothing to hide from each other, sometimes we even take showers together, and we wash each other, down there. It's fun washing his peter, and it feels nice when he washes me."

"Don't your Mommie's tell you that you should cover your bodies down there?" Sam asked.

"We do, if we're going outside." Christine explained, "Mommy says we shouldn't be ashamed of our bodies, it's what God gave us, and we like to see each other's bodies. Don't you like my brother's body?"

"Well, yeah," Sam admitted, "I was just surprised to see him naked, and he's got a nice peter too." Christine nodded, grinning. The children all pulled on their underpants and headed to the kitchen, where Jen and Sasha were cooking breakfast, both dressed in bras and panties. Sam could get used to this—openness. It was downright fun to see Leroy naked, and he made no attempt to cover himself, and neither did Christine. Modesty sucks!

The three children looked much the same above the waist and were all topless, just wearing underpants. Leroy is almost ten, and Christine is just seven, and Sam is almost eight. None of them are starting into puberty, and their chests all looked about the same, like boys.

Jen and Sasha planned on leaving about 1:30 PM, as the Graduation Ceremony is scheduled at 3:00 PM and Brighton is an hour away from Summerton. They finished eating breakfast about 9:30 and had some time to kill. The children all got dressed in play clothes and went outside to play.

Leroy, about half an hour later, "If you ladies will excuse me, I gotta tinkle." Typical boy, Leroy slipped to the edge of the yard, turned his back to the girls, unzipped and watered the grass.

"I wish I had a peter," Sam said to Christine.

"Why?" Christine replied, "If we had a peter, we wouldn't be girls."

"But we have to sit down to tinkle," Sam explained, "and boys can just pull out their peter and tinkle anywhere."

"Girls can have babies though," Christine stated, "and boys can't!"

"Maybe that's why we're made different," Sam said, "It takes both a boy and a girl to make a baby."

"Yeah," Christine replied, "Mommy Jen had a husband once, and that's how Leroy and I got made. Then she fell in love with Mommy Sasha. Leroy and I both love our Mommies, and they love both of us. I think I like our family, just the way it is."

"I think your Mommies are pretty nice," Sam said, "I like them both, a lot. I have both a Mommy and Daddy, and I love my family just the way it is too."

Sasha, about 11:30, came into the yard where the children were, "Will you kids please go ahead and take your showers so we can get you all dressed to go to the Graduation."

"Sure, Mom," Leroy said, then, "Come on girls, we need to shower." The three kids went to their bedrooms and stripped, then met in the bathroom. Leroy adjusted the water and stated, "Ladies first." The girls stepped into the tub, and Leroy followed them, a bottle of shampoo in his hand, and he closed the sliding glass door. Leroy helped both girls shampoo their hair, then shampooed his own while the girls stood under the shower and rinsed theirs. The three kids shared a common washcloth, passing it around to wash their faces.

After rinsing his face, Leroy soaped up the washcloth again.

"Turn around, Sis," Leroy commanded, and washed Christine’s back side, then stated, "swap places," and washed Sam’s back side. The girls swapped places again, and Leroy washed his sister’s front side, carefully washing her vagina. Sam was watching, waiting for her turn.

"Sam," Leroy asked, "do you want me to do you on the front?"

"Sure," Sam replied, grinning. The girls swapped again and Leroy washed Sam's front, including her vagina. Sam loved the feeling of Leroy washing her little pussy. Leroy handed Christine the washcloth, and she washed Leroy's back side.

"Sam," Christine asked, "do you wanna do his front?" Without a verbal reply Sam took the washcloth from Christine's hand, soaped it up again and started to wash Leroy's front side. Sam, grinning, washed Leroy's scrotum and penis, wrapping the washcloth around his pecker and washing it—too well. The friction of the hand held washcloth on his peter caused Leroy to spring a boner. Even a nine-year-old boys penis will react to certain stimulation. Sam couldn't resist feeling Leroy's stiffening penis with her other hand, and grinned, she loved feeling Leroy's peter.

"Sam, I think I'm clean, down there," Leroy stated, grinning, "Thank you." Another minute under the shower and his penis started to return to it's flaccid state.

While the children were finishing their shower, Sasha and Jen came into the bathroom. Jen lowered the seat on the toilet and sat, and Sasha brought in a chair and sat on it. Leroy opened the sliding door, and the two girls stepped out onto the bathmat. Jen took on Samantha, and Sasha took on Christine, both ladies giving the girls a good dry, especially their hair. Leroy stayed behind in the shower, not wanting his Mom's to notice that he was still partially erect. Sasha handed him a towel and Leroy dried his own hair and body, while still in the tub.

While Jen and Sasha used a blow dryer on the girls hair, Leroy slipped out of the tub, dried his feet and headed to his bedroom, leaving the bathroom for the females. Leroy hated to admit it, but the feeling of Sam fondling his pecker had felt really nice, but it did cause him to grow a stiffie. When Christine washes him down there, she's a lot quicker, and he doesn't get hard.

While Sasha was brushing out the girl’s hair, Jen asked Sam if she'd like to have her make her hair really pretty, and Sam agreed. Ten minutes later Sam was in curlers for the first time.

Sasha prepared them all some sandwiches. It would be a long time until they would all be eating together at Applebee's, after the Graduation Ceremony.

　

* * * * * *

Going back a couple of days, on Thursday, Alvin Corbin had asked Art to come to his office, as he wanted to discuss a couple of issues with him. Art was apprehensive, and hoping it wasn't bad news. About an hour before clockout time, Art approached the office, and Alvin motioned him to come into his private office.

"Have a seat, Art, I need to pick your brain," Alvin stated.

Art, smiling, "I hope my brain has what you're looking for."

"I know that Jeff is graduating in two days, and I believe his major is in accounting," Alvin stated, "am I correct?"

"Yes, sir," Art replied, "Accounting is his major."

"Do you know if he has employment lined up, after he graduates?"

"I know he's been putting out some resumes, but I don't think he's had any job offers, yet." Art said, "He is hoping for a position near the University."

"Can I assume then," Alvin said, smiling, "that Jeff and Julian are still—together?" Art nodded.

"Art, what I'm about to share with you is confidential." Alvin stated, "We're going to go through some changes here. Diane's husband is being transferred out of state, effective the end of July. She has given me notice that she will be terminating her position here on the 13th of July. That will give her and Daniel a couple of weeks to find a new home, and to get everything packed."

"Diane has been with me for over twelve years," Alvin continued, "and I feel like I'm losing my right hand. It won't be easy to replace her."

"I wish I could help you, Alvin," Art replied, "I don't know of anyone that could replace Diane."

"Maybe you do, Art," Alvin responded, "do you think that maybe Jeff might consider a full time position with us?"

"I really don't know," Art replied, "I guess you could ask him, do you need his phone number?"

"Not right now," Alvin said, "I can talk with him on Saturday, after the Ceremony. You are aware that he sent me an invitation, aren't you?"

"I didn't know," Art replied, "and you're going?"

"Yes! Me and the Mrs. are leaving here about 7:00 AM on Saturday morning. Jeff, and your son, Julian, are two of the most outstanding young men I know. I was surprised, and honored, that Jeff thought enough of me to send me that invitation, and I'm going to honor him with my presence at his graduation."

"I need to call Julian," Art said, "I know some elements of the family are planning a graduating dinner party to celebrate. I need to let Julian know, so they can plan a couple of extra seats. Jeff has some surprises in his near future!"

After I made the decision yesterday, I did some shopping for a graduation gift," Alvin said, "do you think Jeff will like this?" Alvin pulled a small box from the draw and opened it, exposing a beautiful Rolex.

"Oh my god!" Art exclaimed, "What young man wouldn't appreciate that? I think maybe I should go to college."

"Don't you dare, Art White!" Alvin remarked, grinning, "I need you, right here where you're at. By the way, do you think Julian might be coming back to work for me this summer? I'll have a position for him, even if I have to invent one."

"He hasn't mentioned it," Art replied, "but I guess you can ask him on Saturday, I know he'll be there, to see his boyfriend graduate."

"Art, I know you're leaving for Brighton tomorrow, have a safe trip, and I guess we'll see each other on Saturday." Art walked out, with a wave. He couldn't help but realize just how great an employer Alvin Corbin really is.

Later Thursday evening Art called Julian and told him that Alvin and his wife were coming to Jeff's graduation, and hopefully they could add a couple seats for the party. Julian called Uncle Jim, and he told Julian it would be no problem, as they had the whole party room reserved.

* * * * * *

Saturday morning J&J arose and headed to the dining hall for breakfast, just the two of them. College was now out for the summer break, and Levi and Caleb had both left for their homes on Friday. Returning to their room, they showered together for the last time in this dorm room. They went through the room with a fine tooth comb, making sure they had left nothing behind.

About 11:00 AM they changed into their suits, preparing for the Graduation Ceremony. With nothing better to do, they sat on the sofa and watched a little TV. At noon they wandered to the student lounge and grabbed some lunch from the machines. The dining hall was now closed, until the beginning of the summer semester, about two weeks away.

At 1:00 PM they went to the dorm office, and turned in their keys, then drove to the parking lot across from the Auditorium where the Ceremony would be held. They parked in a spot where they could watch cars arriving so they could spot their family, as they arrived.

The first recognizable vehicle was Art and Vi, arriving at about 1:30. J&J headed to where Art parked, and shared hugs with them, but where was Sam?

Oh, Sam spent the night with Jen and Sasha, Christine and Leroy. They should be arriving soon. Bill and Elaine, with the senior Ashly's in the back seat pulled in shortly after. Introduction time! J&J asked Vi and Art to follow them to the Park's car. Bill and Elaine exited the front seat when they saw J&J heading their way.

"Mom, Dad," Jeff stated, "These are my other parents, and Julian's Mom and Dad, Vi and Art White."

"Mom and Dad," Julian said, "These are MY other parents, and Jeff's parents, Bill and Elaine Parks." The fathers shook hands, and the mothers shared hugs.

Bill, placing his arm, lovingly, around Julian's shoulders, "We've waited a long time to meet the parents of this wonderful young man, that Elaine and I have grown to love like our own son." Elaine pulled Julian close and kissed his lips. Bill walked back to his car and opened the back door.

"Mom, Dad," Bill said, "come on out, there are people out here that I want you to meet." Bill helped his mother-in-law out of the seat and Grandpa got out by himself.

"Mom, Dad," Elaine stated, "This is Jeff's—boyfriends Mom and Dad, Vi and Art White, and you met Jeff's—boyfriend, Julian, at Thanksgiving." Elaine still has a little problem with her son having a—boyfriend!

Granny threw her arms around Julian, and planted her lips on Julian's, giving him a loving kiss, as only a grandmother can. Grandpa hugged Julian from the back, and rested his chin on Julian's shoulder.

"It's good to see you again, Julian," Grandpa stated. Jeff finally got a chance to hug with his grandparents, and had tears sliding down his face.

"Sweetheart," Grandma stated, "this is one of the biggest events of your life, what's with all these tears?"

"I just didn't think—that you would—come this far—just to see—me graduate." Jeff managed to say, between sobs.

"Jeffie," Grandpa stated, "I know the miles have been between us, and we would have liked to have been around to watch you become a man. You're our only grandchild, and your Grandma and I couldn't be any prouder of you than we are today. You may not have known it, but you've always had our love, and you will always have it, until the day we die."

"Thanks, Grandpa," Jeff said, as he and Grandpa shared a loving hug. "Grandpa," Jeff said, sadly, "I don't want you and Grandma to die."

"Jeffie!" Grandpa remarked, smiling, "We don't plan to leave this old earth anytime soon. We're only a few years into our retirement, and we're now able to enjoy our Golden Years. We're not even ready for rocking chairs, yet, let alone our graves!"

Cal and Jim pulled in, with Jen and Sasha on their tail, and parked next to Art's SUV. All three children bounced out of the back seat of Jen's car and immediately threw their arms around J&J.

"I hate to leave all of you," Jeff stated, "we grads have been told to assemble in a certain room by 2:15 to prepare for the procession. I'll see you all after the Ceremony." Jeff took off, and entered the Auditorium.

Vi, noticing that Samantha's hair was beautifully different, "Sam, who did your hair, it's lovely!"

"Aunt Jen gave me a porn, Mommy, do you like it?" Sam asked.

Jen, grinning, "That's a perm, honey, not a porn."

"It makes my pretty little girl even prettier, thank you, Jen," Vi said.

"Not a problem, Vi," Jen replied, "it was a piece of cake, Sam's hair is a pleasure to work with. I'm a cosmetoligist by trade, and I always try to keep a couple of home perm sets around, just in case I need one, like today."

"I know it's only 2:30," Cal stated, "but I think we should go inside now, while we can still get seats close together. This place will fill up fast before 3:00 PM." As the group entered the Auditorium, Bill was reminded of church. Why does everyone at church want to sit in the back, The two back rows in the Auditorium were already filled.

They selected an area about half way to the front, and sat in two rows. The children were antsy, of course, and the adults read the programs, and chatted. There were 113 graduates, all listed in the program.

At precisely 3:00 PM a man approached the podium, and tested the speaker system, which worked just fine. He then spoke.

"LADIES AND GENTLEMAN, I'M MARK HENDERSON, DEAN OF THE LIBERAL ARTS DIVISION OF BRIGHTON UNIVERSITY. IT'S MY PLEASURE TO WELCOME EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU TO THIS YEARS GRADUATION CEREMONY. LET'S WELCOME THIS YEARS SOON TO BE GRADUATES, AS THEY MAKE THEIR WAY TO THE STAGE."

The music started and everyone watched as the graduates marched in single file, across the back of the auditorium and down the center aisle to a recorded version of 'Pomp and Circumstance' then ascended the few steps onto the stage and walked to their chairs, standing in front of them.

As Jeff walked past his family, Samantha yelled out "Jeff!" and Jeff smiled, not missing a step, and waved at Samantha. Jeff now knew where his family was seated.

The Head Dean took the podium, and introduced the University Chaplain, who then gave the invocation. The Dean resumed his position at the podium and gave his speech, mentioning that it was his pleasure to release these fine young women and men to go out and 'plague' the world, which drew laughter from the audience, and some of the graduates as well.

The Dean then got down to business, announcing names, one at a time, as each graduate walked to the podium to receive their 'sheepskin' and a warm hug and handshake from the Dean, and returned to their seats. As each graduate received their diploma, there was a cheering response and applause from somewhere out in the audience.

The ceremony ended, and everyone was leaving their seats, and heading toward the main entrance to exit the building. Most of the graduates, as they came off the stage and down the steps were trying to locate their families and loved ones in the crowd. It was a scene of mild pandamonium. Alvin Corbin had sat toward the back, unobserved by Jeff. Alvin spotted Art, and quietly told him that he and Marge were heading to Applebee's and would see them there. Jeff was still unaware that Alvin had been present.

Jeff found Julian, and the two headed toward the parking lot, Julian proudly holding hands with his graduate boyfriend.

J&J told everyone that they planned to go to Dunbar after the Ceremony, which was true. Bill and Elaine told the boys that they really wanted them to spend that night with them. Jeff's bedroom was still intact, and the grandparents were sleeping in the guestroom. They laid some guilt on Jeff, stating that his grandparents wanted to spend some time with him and Julian.

During the next fifteen minutes most of the family told Jeff little lies, anything to throw him off track. The long drive home, or needing to get the children fed—whatever excuse they could find to get away from the campus.

"Baby," Julian stated, "I'm taking you to Applebee's for a special celebration dinner tonight, just you and me, (a lie) and I'm not accepting 'no' for an answer."

"Ooooh! Payback time! Okay baby, if you're taking me, you're driving." Jeff handed the car keys to Julian, and Julian grinned, assuming the drivers seat. Julian drove them toward the mall in Denton.

"Do you mind if we go to Target first, I need to get some new boxers." (a lie)

Julian was trying to buy some time, to allow everyone else to get to Applebee's before them. Shopping around in Target, Julian did actually buy a new three-pak of boxers. They headed back to Jeff's car, and Julian drove them to Applebee's and parked.

When the hostess offered to seat them, Julian told her he was looking for a special table, and led the unsuspecting Jeff toward the party room.

"Let's check in here," Julian stated, and Jeff followed him through the door.

"SURPRISE!!" The group yelled, catching Jeff completely off guard.

Jeff, shocked and smiling, "YOU SNEAK!" Julian grinned, and led Jeff to two unoccupied chairs. Before Jeff had a chance to sit, members of his and Julian's families were kissing, hugging, and giving Jeff congratulations. Jeff was suddenly facing Alvin, having not realized previously that he was even present.

"Congratulations, Jeff," Alvin said, giving Jeff a warm hug.

"ALVIN!" Jeff exclaimed, "You did make it!"

Alvin, smiling, "Of course! Jeff, I don't think you've ever met my wife, Marge. Marge tends to distance herself from the business, and many of our employees have never met her." Marge shared a friendly handshake and a smile with Jeff.

Cal and Jim stood up and Calvin's voice drew the attention of everyone in the room, "MAY WE PLEASE HAVE YOUR ATTENTION!"

Cal spoke, "For those who may not know us, I'm Calvin Ashley-Wilson, and this is my loving husband, James Ashley-Wilson. We are gathered today to celebrate a milestone in the life of our only nephew, Jeffrey Parks, whom we all watched proudly as he accepted his Graduation Certificate, Jim?"

Jim spoke, "Cal and I spent untold hours, pondering what to give Jeff for his graduation. We wanted to give him something he would remember for years to come, rather than some trinket he might use or wear a couple of times. We finally decided to do this, and kill two birds with one stone."

"I think that everyone is aware that Jeff and Julian have a special relationship with each other," Jim explained. "As a result, they both have two very loving families. Julian's family resides in Dunbar, primarily his parents, Art and Vi White, and Julian's little sister and brother, Samantha and Dominic. Jeff's side of the family is centered around Summerton, and includes most of the rest of us that are here today."

"Jeff, I hope that you'll accept this graduation dinner party as our graduation gift to you, and that this celebration brings our two families closer together."

Jeff. Smiling, "Aside from nearly sending me into cardiac arrest, I happily accept your gift, Thanks, guys." Jeff gave Cal and Jim both loving hugs, and returned to his seat. Several envelopes and a small package were passed down to Jeff. He opened the package first, reading the sticker which read 'Congratulations Jeff, From Alvin Corbin.' Jeff's eyes were like saucers, when he opened the box, exposing the Rolex.

"OH MY GOD!" Jeff exclaimed, "IT'S A ROLEX! IT'S BEAUTIFUL, ALVIN, THANK YOU SO MUCH!" Jeff jumped out of his chair and walked behind Alvin, giving him a hug.

Alvin spoke softly, "Jeff, I need to talk with both you and Julian today, privately, before you guys leave this place, and I'm glad you like the watch."

"Like it? I love it!" Jeff exclaimed, heading back to his chair. He opened the next envelope, with a small box taped on the back of the envelope. Written on the card was 'Son, you will always have our love, Mom and Dad.' Bill and Elaine were watching closely as Jeff opened the box, pulling out a set of keys, with the 'BMW' trademark on them. "Mom, Dad, is this for real?"

"We're sorry, Son," Bill stated, "we couldn't afford a new one, it's pre-owned and three years old, but it only has 20,000 on it, and is in perfect shape. It should get you by for a while." Jeff could hardly believe his eyes, he is now the proud owner of a BMW! Cards from Art & Vi, Sasha & Jen, and the grandparents all yielded VISA gift cards in various amounts. Everyone started to prepare to leave.

"When are you boys planning to return to Dunbar?" Art inquired.

"We're staying over with Mom and Dad tonight," Jeff replied, "we'll probably head back to Dunbar tomorrow."

"I don't think they'll be back until Monday night, Art," Bill stated, "We need to get Jeff's new wheels insured and registered, and we can't do that until Monday morning."

Sam, Christine and Leroy wanted to spend another night together, and the adults agreed to accomodate the children. It was arranged that, since J&J had two cars to drive back, he and Julian would spend Saturday night with Bill and Elaine, and the grandparents. Sunday, Julian would pick up Samantha at Jen and Sasha's and she would ride back to Dunbar with Julian, in Jeff's Toyota. Sam has school on Monday, but Julian is now on summer break. Bill was going to help Jeff get his new car insured and registered Monday morning, and he would return alone to Dunbar on Monday, driving the BMW.

Bill and Elaine gathered up the grandparents and headed home, while Jen and Sasha gathered up the three children and also headed home. J&J would also be returning to Bill and Elaine’s, after their 'chat' with Alvin. Calvin and Jim took care of the huge tab, and headed home soon after. Only J&J and Alvin and Marge remained in the party room. The four of them sat at a table together, allowing the staff to clean up the big table.

"Julian," Alvin asked, "Are you coming back to work for me this summer?"

"I'd like to," Julian replied, "I guess you still need some painters?"

Alvin, chuckling, "I'm always in the market for painters, Jeff have you accepted a position yet with anyone?"

"I've been putting out some resumes, but haven't yet even had an interview with anyone, so I'm still looking." Jeff replied.

"Jeff I'd like to make you a proposition." Alvin explained the situation, about Diane leaving in July. "Diane has been with me for about twelve years, and she has been a wonderful girl Friday, but I've been outsourcing accounting to an accounting firm. I believe your major is in accounting?"

"Yes, sir," Jeff replied, "I still need to take my certification tests, in order to become a Certified Accountant, but I'm sure I can pass them."

"With your accounting skills," Alvin explained, "I can afford to pay you more than I could pay a just a receptionist secretary. It would eliminate the need to send out work to an outside source for accounting, as we do now. We don't have enough work to justify a full time accountant, but if you would consider being an office boy, receptionist, and doing some secretarial work, and do the accounting as well, I think I can offer you a decent salary. It would be a full time position, with benefits and two weeks paid vacation."

"What would be expected of me?" Jeff asked.

"Well," Alvin explained, smiling, "Answer the phone, write a few letters, answer the phone, do payroll, answer the phone, arrange my appointments, pay the bills, using company money of course, answer the phone, make coffee, answer the phone and make excuses for me when I occasionally go out with some friends to play golf!"

Jeff, grinning, "It sounds like a reasonable list of responsibilities, and it would allow me to be close to Julian's young siblings. I love those children as much as if they were mine. I'm interested!"

"Oh, one more task, make sure pizza is delivered every Friday for lunch. Would you consider $24,000 starting salary?" Alvin asked, "That's a little over $450 a week, before taxes."

"That's an offer I find hard to decline," Jeff responded, "I think you just bribed yourself an office boy! (Alvin grinned) When would you like me to start?"

"How about Monday, the 9th of July. That will give Diane a few days to show you the ropes, before she leaves us. Her last day is the 13th and it will also give you and Julian time to enjoy the July fourth weekend together."

"Julian," Alvin asked, "when will you be available to work?"

"I'm free for the summer," Julian answered, "when would you like me to come back? And are Gordy and Simon returning this summer?"

"Gordy and Simon have graduated, and they won't be back. I can use you next week if you're available," Alvin stated, "but I have a slightly different position for you this summer."

"You don't need me for a painter?" Julian asked.

"Yes and No," Alvin said, "Grady Carpenter now has more on his shoulder's than just the painters, he's also in charge of the siding installers now. I told him I thought you were returning, and he and I decided to give you a little promotion. You will be the team leader over all of the painters that we have hired for the summer, all six of them. Since you know the ropes, you'll be responsible to train them, and dole out their jobs on a daily basis, and you'll have the use of a company pickup truck to use, on site, and an additional $2.00 an hour over what you earned last summer."

"Cool," Julian said, "I can always use extra money, are these guys all college kids?"

"Four of them are," Alvin said, "and two of them are local high schoolers, from right in Dunbar. The high school kids are just sixteen and seventeen, and will be seniors next fall. The four college boys are on their way from Pennsylvania as we speak, and I plan to start them on Tuesday. The high school boys won't be starting until a week from this Monday."

"If it's okay with you, Julian." Alvin stated, "I'll plan on you to also be at work this Tuesday morning, and I'll introduce you to the first four members of your crew."

Julian, smiling, "I'll be there, Alvin, bright eyed and bushy tailed! Thank you so much, I'm looking forward to another summer of working for Corbin Homebuilders." Alvin smiled, happy to have these two young gay lovers as employees again. Most of the other employees are aware of the relationship between J&J, and it's a non-issue. Alvin is 100% straight, but he doesn't have a drop of homophobia in his blood.

Alvin and Marge prepared to leave for home and Alvin gave both boys a hug.

"See you Tuesday, Julian," Alvin stated, "and welcome back, Jeff, thank you for accepting my employment offer, and I'll look for you to report for work after the July fourth weekend, on the ninth." Alvin and Marge left the restaurant, heading for their car and home.

A very happy J&J, after picking up Jeff's cards and gifts, headed out to Jeff's Toyota and to Bill and Elaines for the rest of the weekend. Both boys were anxious to get a look, and a ride in Jeff's new wheels! Parking at Bill and Elaine’s, the boys slowly walked around and admired the the shiny bright red BMW, still sporting the temporary tags, supplied by the dealer.

Jeff, as he and Julian entered the house, "Dad, we'll be back shortly, we gotta take the Beamer for a test drive!" Bill and Elaine smiled, as the boys headed back out. Jeff took the driver's seat, and Julian the passengers seat, started it, loving how the engine purred so perfectly. Jeff backed out of the parking space and took off, grinning. About five miles down the road, Jeff pulled off onto a wide spot.

"Baby, wanna try it out?" The boys swapped seats, and Julian drove back, grinning all the way. They both loved the way the BMW performed and handled. Julian was glad he'd learned to drive a stick shift, as both of Jeff's cars are standard five-speed transmissions.

Parking the Beamer in the drive, the boys entered the house, to spend some time with the Ashley grandparents, as well as Bill and Elaine.

* * * * * *

The boys sat together on the big sofa in the living room, and the grandparents sat on the ends, Grandpa next to Jeff, and Grandma next to Julian, sandwiching the two boys between them. Bill and Elaine occupied two side chairs.

Grandpa, breaking the ice, "So I guess you two are going to follow your uncles down the aisle to matrimony?"

"Grandpa!" Jeff exclaimed, "Julian and I are just the best of friends."

"That's bullshit, Jeffie!" Grandpa remarked, "and you know it."

"Jeffie," Grandma stated, "your Grandfather and I weren't born yesterday. We can see and feel the love that you two boys have for each other, and it's a lot stronger love than two friends would have for each other!" Grandma pulled Julian close, and placed a kiss on his cheek. "And we can't help but love this beautiful young man that you've chosen to be your soulmate!"

"You know, and you're OK with our relationship?" Jeff asked.

"Jeffie," Grandpa explained, "We've realized that not all boys are born to love girls, and not all girls are born to love boys. We knew, years ago, that Jimmy would someday find a nice man to love, long before same sex marriage was even legal. We're happy that the laws have changed, and that we were still around to see Jim and Calvin marry."

"Angie and I have nothing but love for our Son and our Son-in-law," Grandpa continued, "and we only have love for you, and, hopefully, our future Grandson-in-law." Jeff and Julian glanced at each other, smiling. They seem to have gained acceptance from Jeff's grandparents.

Bill, standing up, "Boys, come into the den with me, we have some legalities to take care of." J&J followed Bill, unsure what this might be about.

Bill suggested that, since Julian still has another year of college, it would be desirable to have his own transportation. He also explained that the cost of insurance on all these vehicles was killing him. Since the boys will both be working for the summer, and Jeff permanently, would they be willing to cover the insurance on their cars?

Bill was willing to sign the title of the Toyota over to Julian, if Jeff was willing to pass it down to his boyfriend. It was a win-win deal for the boys, and there was no argument. Julian was soon to be the owner of the Toyota. Bill agreed to cover the insurance on both the BMW and the Toy through the end of July, giving the boys a chance to get a couple of paychecks. Bill transferred the title of the Toyota to Julian White, dated July 1 st, and handed the title to Julian, so Julian would be able to register it in his own name.

Saturday night the Park's family went to bed about 11:00 PM, the grandparents in the guestroom, and J&J in Jeff's bed, of course.

Rather than spending another night in Brighton, Art and Vi left for Dunbar right after the graduation party at Applebee's, confidant that Julian would be bringing his little sister home on Sunday.

Sunday morning everyone was up having coffee about 8:00 AM. Bill and Jeff were taking the grandparents to the airport for their return to Florida, driving Bill's car, as the back seat was more comfortable and spacious than the BMW. Julian was to pick up Sam at Sasha's house and returning to Dunbar, driving Jeff's (oops, now Julian's) Toyota.

Monday morning Elaine cooked breakfast for Bill, Jeff and herself, and Bill and Jeff left to take care of the insurance and registration for the BMW. They registered the BMW in Jeff's name, rather than Bill's, as the Toyota had been registered while Jeff was in college. They returned to Bill and Elaine’s home about 11:00 AM and Jeff retrieved his and Julian's luggage and placed it in the trunk of the BMW.

After sharing lunch with his parents, Jeff prepared to leave for Dunbar. Elaine and Bill both wished Jeff success on his new job, and after hugs and kisses, (and a few tears) Jeff headed to his BMW for the trip to Dunbar. Elaine followed Jeff to the car.

"Son," Elaine stated, "I hope you know that our home is always open for you and Julian to come and visit. Please don't wait too long, we love you both!"

"We both love you and Dad, too," Jeff replied, "with our new jobs, our free time is unpredictable, but we'll stay in touch, I promise."

Hitting the road, Jeff is realizing that his Mom has really changed, and he is reasonably certain that she has completely overcome her homophobia. She is now the loving mother that she used to be, before she knew that he was gay. He's anxious to get back to Dunbar to reunite with his boyfriend, and he's dying to see Dominic! Dominic may be only three years old, but he has a huge fan club, everybody loves Dominic White!

* * * * * *

The other boys, Roger, Jake and Kevin have been watching the progression on the pool daily. Wednesday the workers placed artificial turf around the outsides of the pool, and Friday applied the second coat of paint on the inside. The worker told the boys the paint needed a few days to cure, and then water could be run in, and the pool filled. ALMOST DONE! YEA!

Lee and the boys still need to build the deck around two sides of the pool, the end where the diving board is, and the side toward the kitchen. The artificial turf goes up to the edge of the pool on the far end and the right side.

To be continued..............