Leopard Spots - 19. Chapter 19

Maria smiled across at Jim as she spoke into her microphone. “It’s time for Pride FM’s footy tips. For those who don’t follow the football...shame on you! However, in case you’re not aware, round five of the AFL starts on Thursday night this week, so we’ve brought in our experts from the Lilydale Leopards a day early to preview the round.”

Michelle gave Jim a wink. “Today, Jim Henderson has joined Paul Crowman to bring us the tips. We’re also pleased to announce that Jim is going to become a regular here at Pride FM and will hopefully share some of his experiences as an elite gay athlete.”

Jim cringed. “I’m happy to share stories with your listeners, Michelle, but I wouldn’t call myself an elite athlete. That’s something I’d reserve for those playing football at the AFL level.”

“But I understand you play against a lot of AFL-listed players in the VFL. Did I have that wrong?” Michelle asked.

“No...but those are the players who didn’t make the senior team. Some of them will be rookies working their way into the AFL team, and others will be AFL players who are coming back from injury or suspension. Playing VFL gives them some match fitness before they return to the top level.”

“But you’re competing with them. Isn’t that saying you’re at their standard?” Maria asked.

Jim glanced at Paul, hoping he’d take the question. Paul smiled. “That’s true, but they get to move on and play in the AFL. We don’t. We stay at the VFL level and do our best to make their life a misery.”

Michelle chuckled. “As long as you don’t do that to my beloved Magpies, I don’t mind.”

Paul grinned. “Sorry, Michelle, but Collingwood’s fair game as far as we’re concerned. They’re just another team.” He held up a hand. “They’re a good team, one the best, but if they play against the Leopards, we’ll do what we can to beat them, and we’re not going to apologise for that.”

Maria grinned. “No one needs to apologise for beating Collingwood, Paul. Everyone except one-eyed Magpie supporters like Michelle knows that. But that’s not what I wanted to hear from Jim. Rather than concentrating on the word ‛elite’, how about the word ‛gay’? What’s it like playing in the VFL as a gay athlete?”

Jim frowned as he thought quickly. “I’d like to say it’s no different from when I wasn’t out of the closet, but that’s not true. The recent announcement by the AFL and other sporting codes about trying to stamp out homophobia was made because it is an issue. Homophobic slurs abound between players; they’ve been made all my playing career. I know the players don’t mean them, but they’re still there.”

Michelle frowned. “What do you mean, that they don’t mean them?”

“They’re not making comments because they believe the opposition player is gay. They’re trying to unsettle the other guy, to get inside his head and make him react, rather than act – to distract him from the game and hopefully stop him from playing at his best. It’s the same reason the Australian cricket team is so well known for sledging. I don’t have a problem with that; there’s certainly a psychological element to the game. The issue is that they use homophobic taunts as the means for doing this, and that’s hard on players who happen to be gay. They can take those taunts personally when that was never the intention.”

Michelle’s brow creased. “Are you defending the use of homophobic comments on the field?”

Jim grimaced. “No, and I don’t want anyone to think that they’re acceptable. What I’m trying to say is that it’s not personal. Homophobia is no more acceptable than racism or sexism, and I’m extremely pleased that the AFL is working to eliminate all of them from the game. But it’s not going to happen overnight, and it’s going to require a shift in the basic culture that views homosexuals as weak, as undesirables. Homophobic abuse is a form of generic insult for most people, but it’s an insult that’s using gays as the basis. That’s wrong.”

“Jim, what you’re saying was true before you came out, but it’s not true anymore,” Paul said. “Now that you’re openly gay, homophobic comments are personal. Have you noticed any change since you came out?”

Maria chuckled. “Who’s doing this interview, Paul? However, it’s a good question. Jim?”

Jim gave Paul a momentary glare, but it had no effect on his taller teammate. “Generally, not a problem. I’ve been told that there’s been a lot of homophobic yelling from the spectators, but I largely tune out those comments and don’t hear them. From the other players, it’s been largely fine. A few have even asked if it’s okay for them to say anything, or they’ve apologised in advance for something they might say later. Most players at our level have a professional attitude, and while it’s certainly not sweetness and light, there’s been no real change to the level of animosity I’ve experienced from the other teams.”

Michelle and Maria exchanged a quick glance. “You said it’s generally not a problem. Have there been any incidents?” Michelle asked.

Jim made a face. “Only one isolated incident, and that wasn’t serious. I’m more than happy with how things have gone so far, and I’d like to applaud the general attitude of all the teams we’ve played since I came out. If things continue the way they’ve gone to date, then I’ll have no complaints.”

Maria caught the wind-up signal from Joe, the producer, in the sound box. “I’m sure we’ll talk more about this in the future, but for now we need to get onto the upcoming AFL games. First up is tonight’s match between the Brisbane Lions and the Richmond Tigers. What’s your view, Paul?”

Paul glanced at the notes he’d brought into the studio with him. “Both teams have had a shocking start to the season, with the Lions still winless and the Tigers with only one win. However, Brisbane has played three top teams out of their four matches, so position on the ladder isn’t necessarily a good indication of how things stand between the two...”

* * *

“Jim, could I have a quick word before you leave?” Keith Sutherland asked.

Jim was surprised at the request, but he quickly smiled. “Sure.” As Tony’s old boss as well as the sales and marketing manager of Pride FM, Jim had a lot of respect for the older guy.

“Did you want me, too?” Paul asked.

Keith frowned momentarily. “It probably wouldn’t hurt, though it’s not really to do with you. You don’t have to come along.”

Paul and Jim exchanged glances. Jim shrugged. “Whatever you want, Paul.”

Keith’s expression firmed. “On second thoughts, yes, Paul, please join us. This won’t take long, but it’s fairly important.”

The two Leopard players followed Keith into his office. Jim became apprehensive when Keith closed the door behind them.

Keith waved a hand towards the seats, though he remained standing. “Jim, I know from Tony that you don’t want to be put up there as a role model or a media celebrity, but that’s what you are. You need to be very careful what you say in public. I think you recovered well, but there’s already been some negative reactions on social media to your statements this morning.”

“I don’t know what you mean.” Jim glanced at Paul, who shrugged.

Keith perched himself on the edge of his desk. “Your comments on homophobia. Part of what you said could easily be taken as to mean that homophobic comments are not serious, that they don’t really matter.”

“But I said it was completely unacceptable!” Jim turned to Paul. “That’s what I said, wasn’t it?”

“Yeah, you did.” Paul frowned up at Keith.

Keith nodded. “You did, but before that you said they weren’t personal – that they’re part of the game. Michelle picked you up on it and quickly steered you out of danger, but there are people quoting that first statement you made and calling for your head for making it.” Keith held up a hand to quell the protest. “I know, that wasn’t what you meant, but that’s the way it came over. There are a lot of guys out there – and here at the station, too – who have spent a lot of their lives receiving abuse for being gay. It is never acceptable to abuse someone. It is certainly never acceptable to use being gay as a reason for abusing someone. By saying homophobic comments aren’t personal, you’re making them sound acceptable. That’s wrong.”

Jim frowned while he thought about what Keith had said. Being in the media spotlight was becoming more complicated than he had anticipated, and he didn’t like it. “Do I need to make a statement to fix things?”

“At the moment, no, but if you could hang around for another hour or so, we’ll see if the issue is escalating. If it is, then yes, you’ll need to say something. I’ll help with that, but I’m hoping it won’t be needed.”

“An hour I can do, but no more. I’ve got an interview and another photo shoot to do this morning.” Jim grimaced. “I hope they didn’t hear this morning’s broadcast. If it’s as big an issue as you’ve said, I’ll be asked about it again.”

Keith smiled. “It’ll be fine, Jim. You’re new to this, and we can write some of your comments off as simply being inexperienced with speaking in public. Michelle made you clarify your comments, and your clarification was good. You just need to learn to be more careful when speaking off the cuff.”

Jim groaned. “I hate this.”

Paul chuckled. “I can see why, but it’s your new life, Dad. I don’t envy you, but I can’t think of anyone better suited for the job. Just be yourself, and you’ll be someone everyone can look up to.”

* * *

Jim collapsed onto his bed. “Fuck, I’m tired. I’m glad it’s a short week and tomorrow’s Good Friday.”

Tony chuckled as he joined Jim, nestling himself into the space between Jim’s outstretched arm and his body. “A bad day? What was so difficult?”

Jim grunted. “Firstly, I fucked up at the radio station this morning. Then I had to keep telling the magazine photographer there was no way I was going to take off my footy shorts for him. After that, I was back at the radio station recording a station promo and then joining in the afternoon show. At least I didn’t fuck that one up, but I think Keith had warned them to stay off certain subjects. Finally, I went back to the club to do a workout, only to find that one of the lights in the gym had exploded, and the gym was closed while they cleaned up the glass.”

“Keith told me about the incident this morning, but he said the issue blew over quickly, so no harm done. As for the photographer, I hope you told him that there’s only one person you take those shorts off for...” Tony ran his hand lightly down Jim’s chest.

Jim chuckled. “There’s over twenty people I strip them off in front of, but only one person for whom I do it for fun.” He grabbed Tony’s wandering hand. “Later....”

Tony snuggled up closer to his boyfriend. “Since you didn’t get to exercise today, I’m guessing you’d like to do so tomorrow.”

“Well...I do have the day off from training, so, yes. I can’t afford to go two days without a workout.” Jim kissed Tony’s head. “And don’t mention nocturnal workouts!”

Tony laughed. “Alex is a bad influence on both of us.” He tilted his head up so he could reach Jim’s lips, bringing the conversation to an end.

* * *

Paul smiled as he stepped into Neil’s home. “Hello, Mrs. Rosewood. I’m Paul Crowman.” It was eleven on the Friday morning, and Paul had volunteered to pick up Neil. Todd had agreed to go out with Lorraine and her kids for most of the day. That would give Paul and Oliver more time to get to know Neil.

“Oh, my...another tall one! Are all your friends this large, Neil?” She visibly gathered herself together. “My apologies, Paul, I’m being rude. Please, come in.

Neil’s smile had an uneasy edge to it. “Paul and Todd are the tallest. Most of the guys aren’t that big.”

“But even your friend Ty was tall. You must be one of the shortest in the group.”

Paul grinned. “Neil’s about the same size as Ollie, the third guy in our house. Ty’s one of the middle-sized guys, so, yes, I suppose we’re an above average bunch of guys as far as height is concerned. But Neil fits in fine; size isn’t the way we judge our friends.”

“I’ve got my bag, and I’m ready to go when you are, Paul,” Neil said, a note of urgency in his voice.

“Can you stay long enough for a cuppa, Paul?” Mary Rosewood asked.

“I’d love to. We don’t have any urgent plans for the rest of the day, so there’s no rush.” Paul took note of Neil’s anxiety, but he wanted to get to know Neil’s parents. It would help him get a feel for Neil’s character; something particularly important, since it seemed likely that Neil would be moving in with him at some point in the future.

“Well, come into the lounge room and sit down. Watch your head as you enter.”

Paul chuckled. “I’m not that tall.” As he entered, he saw Neil’s father clambering to his feet. “G’day, sir. I’m Paul Crowman, one of the guys that Neil will be staying with over the long weekend.”

“Please, call me Phil.” Mr. Rosewood smiled as he shook Paul’s hand. “Ty told me that he’s going to try to get Neil to the gym. It looks like you guys all like to work out, so I hope you can convince him to try.”

Paul grinned at Neil. “We’ll do our best. We might try to do something about that over the next few days. I just need to make sure my sister doesn’t get her claws into him.” When he saw the concerned expression on Neil’s mother’s face, Paul chuckled. “My sister used to be a personal trainer and still does some instruction from time to time. She took Ty out for a run on Tuesday. He says he didn’t quite throw up at the end, but it took him several minutes before he was capable of moving again. Don’t worry, I won’t let her do that to Neil.”

There was a short break in the conversation while Mrs. Rosewood took Paul’s drink order and then sent Neil out of the room to make it.

“I’m not sure if Neil’s packed any clothes for exercise....” Mary glanced in the direction of the kitchen.

“It doesn’t matter. Ollie’s about the same size, and he’ll be able to lend Neil anything he’s missing.”

The conversation continued, interrupted only when Neil returned with hot drinks for everyone. Paul notice that Neil relaxed while the chat stayed on safe topics, but that he tensed whenever the conversation veered into a discussion of the other guys in the group.

Eventually, everyone had finished their drinks and it was clear that it was almost time to leave. Paul had a question he wanted to ask, but hadn’t found an easy way to slip it in. He decided to bite the bullet and just ask.

“Mary, Phil, there’s something I need guidance on from you regarding this weekend.” Paul glanced at Neil before returning his attention to Neil’s parents. “Neil’s been really good about telling everyone he’s underage and can’t drink, but I wanted to find out if it’s okay if he has a drink or two while he’s with us. We won’t let him get drunk, and he won’t be the only one not drinking if you say no, but given he turns eighteen at the end of next month, I thought I should ask if he’s allowed alcohol.”

Mrs. Rosewood frowned, but her husband smiled. “I don’t see why not. As long as he’s responsible and doesn’t drink too much, he’s old enough to have a drink if he wants.”

“Are you sure, dear?” Mary glanced at Paul and then Neil, her expression one of uncertainty.

“As Paul said, he’s almost eighteen. Most kids have gotten themselves plastered by his age, but to the best of my knowledge, he hasn’t. If he wants to enjoy himself this weekend, I don’t see why he shouldn’t.” Mr. Rosewood caught Neil’s eye. “I can trust you, can’t I, son?”

Neil jerked his head up and down. He swallowed once. “I don’t intend to drink, anyway. I just want to have a good time with my friends.”

Mr. Rosewood smiled. “In that case, we won’t keep you any longer. I know Neil’s keen to get going. By the way, what are the plans for the weekend?”

Paul shrugged. “It’s open to some extent. Some of the guys are thinking of going to see a movie tonight, but I’ll be staying home. That’s typical, with different ones in the group doing different things, so Neil will have choices as to what he wants to do. A bunch of us are thinking of playing a little footy tomorrow, and I’m personally planning for a lazy day on Sunday. I believe the plan is to bring Neil back on Sunday night.”

Mr. and Mrs. Rosewood held a quick silent conversation. When Phil nodded, Mary turned back to Paul. “That’s what we discussed, but I know Neil wanted to stay until Monday. If you’re happy with him staying the extra night, we don’t mind. As long as he’s back around lunchtime, as he still needs to get ready for school on Tuesday.”

Neil’s mouth dropped open. “Thanks, Mum!” He grinned broadly and glanced at his father. “Thanks, Dad.”

Both parents smiled, but it was Mr. Rosewood who spoke. “We were initially concerned about how Neil had fallen in with what seemed to be a complete set of strangers, but now that we’ve met three of you – and Ty’s girlfriend – we’re more than comfortable for him to spend time with you guys. The fact that you asked if it was okay to give him alcohol told me a lot about you. You all seem to be a good influence on him, and that will help him to grow up to be a decent man.” He frowned slightly. “Some of the young people today are definitely inappropriate – slimy poofs, tattooed freaks, louts who only want to booze up, and guys and even girls with those revolting piercings – but you’re not like that, and Mary and I feel you’re not going to let Neil down.” He smiled as he stood up. “It’s been a pleasure, Paul, but it’s time we let you two disappear and have some fun.”

* * *

Oliver chuckled as Neil hesitated while staring at the entrance to the Lilydale Leopards’ gym. “It’s okay, Neil. Paul and I will make sure you don’t hurt yourself.”

“It’s not that. It’s...” Neil looked away, unable to complete the sentence.

“No one will laugh or point, if that’s what you’re worried about.” Paul glanced up and down Neil’s body. “You’re thin and could do with some more muscle, but you’re not out of shape. There’s nothing to worry about.”

Oliver grinned as he stepped up the door. “Plus, it’s Good Friday afternoon. The chances are there’ll be no one else here.”

He was proven wrong as soon as they stepped through. “Jim, Tony, Julie! We didn’t think anyone else would be in.”

“G’day, Ollie. I missed out on a workout yesterday, so I told myself I had to do something today.”

Tony jumped in as soon as Jim had finished. “This is his idea of a date. He’s such a romantic.”

While Oliver chuckled, Jim raised his middle finger in Tony’s direction. Jim paused as Neil stepped into the room. “G’day, Neil.”

“Er...hi.” Neil dropped his head. He could feel his face going red as he realised that Jim was going to see how weak he was.

“I didn’t think we were allowed guests.” Julie stopped her treadmill, picked up her towel, and strolled over to join the newcomers as she wiped the sweat from her brow. “Hi, I’m Julie. I’m one of the coaches here as well as being Paul’s sister.”

Paul put a finger to his lips. “We’re not to tell anyone we brought him in. It’s just for the weekend, and only because his father wants him to start exercising regularly. We promised we’d encourage Neil to start going to the gym.”

Julie frowned. She stared at Paul for a moment and then at the others in the room. Everyone seemed to be waiting for her response. Finally, she turned to Neil and smiled. “For the record, I didn’t see you.”

Neil grinned with relief. He had been worried that he had gotten Paul and Oliver into trouble. “Thank you.”

Julie cocked her head. “If you’re looking to start exercising, maybe I can help–”

“No!” Paul took a step between her and Neil. “I promised his parents that I wouldn’t let you get him.”

Julie stared up at her brother, raising an eyebrow to ask a silent question.

“I told them that you used to be a personal trainer and what you did to Ty on Tuesday.” Paul draped an arm across Neil’s shoulders. “I promised them that I wouldn’t let you do the same to Neil.”

Julie laughed. “The brat needed to be taken down a notch. I wanted him to learn how far he still has to go. I wouldn’t do that to a newbie. That reminds me...Dad, I want you there next Tuesday morning if you’re free. You could do with some extra endurance work, too.” She smiled at Neil as Jim groaned. “Paul and Ollie will probably have the best of intentions, but they’ve never dealt with someone new to exercise. You’re safer with me than them. Believe me.”

Neil glanced at the others in the room. When he saw Jim smile and nod, Neil took a deep breath and turned back to Julie. “Okay. What do I do first?”

Julie grinned. “We’ll start with a warm up. Five minutes on the treadmill, at a fast walk. While we’re doing that, we’ll talk about what your goals are. These guys want muscle, but that’s not the only reason to exercise. If you’ve got a different goal, we’ll work out what you have to do to reach it.”

“I’m surprised to see you here, sis. I thought you’d be out with Aaron.” Paul smiled at Neil as the three strolled towards the exercise machines. “Aaron is Julie’s boyfriend. They’ve been going out since the start of the year.”

“I’ll see him tonight. He had a family function on today. And before you ask, yes, he invited me, and I said no. It’s too early to meet his folks.”

Paul snorted. “Yeah, right.” He chuckled when Julie gave him the finger.

Neil glanced once more at Jim, but he had turned back to doing something with weights with Tony. He saw Oliver give him a thumbs-up before heading over to the bikes. Neil swallowed once and then joined Julie and Paul on the treadmills. It was going to be an afternoon of trying new things for him.

* * *

“Okay, Neil, I think that’s enough for you. Sit on one of the bikes and just pedal slowly while you recover. When you’re ready, head off and have a nice long hot shower. You’ll feel a hundred percent better.” Julie smiled. “While you do that, I’ll write up some suggestions on things to do at home that will get you started. When you’re ready to get serious, you can join a gym.”

“Where are the showers?” Neil started to tense up. He hadn’t thought ahead as to whether he’d be showering with any of the other guys. He resisted the temptation to glance in Jim’s direction.

“I’ll show you.” Tony crossed the gym. He smiled at Neil. “I’m just about finished, too. Jim and the other guys will probably keep going for another hour, knowing them.”

“Thirty minutes,” Jim called out. “We’ve got a game on tomorrow.”

“Sounds about right to me, too,” Oliver said. “Paul?”

Paul chuckled. “Let me guess; that’s about the time Helena will be arriving at our place.”

Oliver stared at the ceiling, trying to look innocent. “Could be...”

Julie rolled her eyes. “As Dad said, we’ve got a game tomorrow. Don’t wear yourself out, Ollie.”

“Never!” Oliver grinned. “But it’s fun trying.”

Neil took the end bike and started slowly. He was annoyed when Tony took the bike next to him.

“What are your plans for when you finish school, Neil?” Tony asked while they pedalled.

“Not sure.” Neil wanted to be abrupt, but he owed Jim, Todd, and Ty too much to be rude. “I’d like to be an engineer, but I don’t know how that’s going to happen. I can’t go to uni if I don’t have a place to live.”

Tony frowned. “You really think your parents will kick you out?”

Neil glared. “Is that so hard to believe?”

Tony winced. “Sadly, no, though I thought it was getting rarer. I know Todd’s looking at putting you up if you need it so you can finish Year 12, but after that...” Tony grimaced. “I wish I could offer some suggestions, but I don’t have any just now.”

“Todd suggested doing my degree part-time.” Neil didn’t want to continue the conversation, but he didn’t want to be rude, either.

“That could work.” Tony’s brow wrinkled. “If you like, I can ask about the possibility of you getting a job with Pride FM at the end of the year. They often have young guys and girls working there. It might start off as being fairly menial, but there are a lot of options at the station if that’s what interests you. No promises, but I can put in a good word for you.”

Neil stared, his feet still pedalling on automatic but getting slower the longer he stared. “Why would you do that for me?”

Tony smiled, but he didn’t look happy. “Because I’ve met people who have become estranged from their parents. Some cope with it fine, but others...” He shook his head. “Everyone has a tale to tell, Neil. I’d prefer it if yours isn’t full of pain and disappointment.”

Neil winced. It was getting harder to keep hating Tony.

* * *

Marcus shook Sam awake. The two had checked into their hotel in the Melbourne suburb of Ringwood just after noon, and, after a quick bite to eat, Sam had fallen asleep. He had done most of the driving that day, after telling Marcus that he needed to do something to keep his mind occupied.

“What time is it?” Sam asked as he blinked the sleep from his eyes.

“Almost five. We need to get ready for dinner with Mandy and Jordan.”

“Did she say if Deon was going to be there?” Sam rolled off the bed and stretched. His back was still stiff from the long drive, but a hot shower would fix that.

“I haven’t contacted her since we replied to the text on the way down. She told us she’d invite him, but she hasn’t sent us an update.” Marcus smiled. “He’ll either be there or he won’t. You need to spend some time with Jordan, regardless, so we can wait until we get there to find out.”

Sam gave his lover a long kiss. “Thank you for all of this. It’s not our usual way to spend Easter.”

“It’s important. You’ve got a great family, Sam. They deserve to get to know you again.”

Sam rested his head on Marcus’s shoulder. “I would’ve missed the chance if Deon hadn’t been there at that press conference. If I hadn’t seen him...”

“You did see him, and there’s no point wondering about what would’ve happened if you didn’t.”

Sam sighed and pulled away from Marcus. “Time to get ready. Have you heard from Matt and Gary?”

“Yeah, but it’s not good news. They can’t make it to the game tomorrow. With the Easter long weekend, they’ve got a lot of staff who are taking time off, so they’ve got to stay at the dealership and work.”

“Damn.”

Marcus smiled. “They did suggest catching up for dinner, either tomorrow or Sunday night. I said I’d let them know once we knew what Deon’s plans were. They understood and said that if it doesn’t work out, they’ll catch up with us the next time we’re in Melbourne.”

“It sounds like you’ve got it all worked out.” Sam gave Marcus one last kiss before heading into the bathroom.

Marcus sat down on the edge of the queen-sized bed and quietly prayed that Sam would continue to make progress with Deon.

* * *

“Rise and shine, sleepyhead!”

Neil’s eyes cracked open, and he stared up at a barechested Todd, who was standing next to the bed dressed in only a loose-fitting pair of boxers. “What time is it?”

Todd chuckled as he scratched his groin. “Probably too early for you, but the rest of us have our pre-game rituals to get through. Mine involves a big breakfast, so I thought I’d cook some for you, too.”

Neil looked away. He told himself that Todd was just a friend and probably didn’t realise what his display was doing to Neil. “Yeah, that sounds nice, but can I have a few more minutes in bed, please?”

“Sure, but don’t be too long or I’ll end up eating your share.” Todd smiled down. “Breakfast in fifteen. Will you be ready?”

“Yeah, I will.” Neil pulled the doona cover up to his chin. He gave into temptation and turned to watch Todd, only to see his friend disappearing out the door, still almost naked.

Neil lay in bed for a couple more minutes, and then made himself get up and have a quick shower. He was there as Todd’s guest, and he had to make sure he didn’t mess up Todd’s , Paul’s, or Oliver’s preparations for the day’s match. Todd had told him that they would take him to the stadium early, but once there, Neil would have to look after himself until after the game.

When he arrived in the kitchen, he found Todd, Paul, Oliver, and Helena all about to start eating. On the table was a collection of assorted cereals, a small pile of toast, a platter of grilled bacon, and a tray of fried eggs. A pot of coffee, a carton of milk, and a jug of orange juice completed the breakfast offerings.

Todd was still in only his boxers, while Paul, Helena, and Oliver were all wearing T-shirts, Helena’s being more like a dress. Neil was the only one wearing pants, in his case, a pair of jeans.

“Help yourself, Neil. Otherwise, it’ll all go before you get a chance.” Todd grinned. “Ollie and Paul aren’t slow eaters.”

Oliver gave Todd a mock-scowl. “And you are? Ignore him, Neil. I’ve never seen anyone who eats more than that guy.”

Paul chuckled. “Contrary to popular belief, Ollie doesn’t look at himself in the mirror.”

Oliver frowned for a moment as he tried to make sense of that statement, and then his eyes went wide. “Hey, I do not eat more than Todd!”

Helena chuckled as she poured herself a bowl of cereal. “Ignore them, Neil. They’re always like this on a match-day morning. Most of the time, they’re much more sedate.”

“Pre-game rituals, Neil. I warned you...” Todd slid a couple of eggs on to the toast he had already placed on his plate, but Paul got to the tongs first and grabbed a pile of bacon. “Hey, make sure you leave some for Neil!”

“It’s okay. I’ll fill up on cornflakes.” Neil proceeded to do as he said.

“Nonsense.” Todd put a piece of toast and an egg on a plate and put it next to Neil. “Grab yourself some bacon, once the other guys have finished with the tongs.”

“You didn’t have to...”

Helena grinned. “It’s easier to give in, Neil, but if you’re hungry, I’ll distract Ollie and you can grab stuff from his plate while he’s not watching.”

Oliver chuckled. “I’m waiting...”

Helena slipped a hand under the table. Oliver jumped for a moment and then grinned. “I’m distracted!”

Todd reached over and grabbed some of Oliver’s bacon and put it on his own plate. “Thanks, Helena.”

“Hey!” Oliver scowled at Todd. He then turned to Neil. “I’ve got a spare Leopards’ jacket you can wear for the day. All you have to do is get my bacon back for me.”

Neil grinned. “You can’t get it back yourself?”

Oliver looked down his nose at Neil. “Do I look stupid? He’s twice the size of me!”

Neil laughed. Trusting to the light-hearted spirit of the morning, he picked up some bacon from Todd’s plate and tossed it over to Oliver.

“Thanks, mate!” Oliver immediately wrapped an arm around his plate, shielding his food from Todd. “It’s mine, all mine!”

* * *

“You know that I’m going to be looking for a girl to pick up,” Doug said as they walked from the train station towards the Lilydale Leopards’ stadium. The game between the Lilydale Leopards and the Coburg Lions was due to start in an hour.

“Me, too.” Rod grinned. “After spending most of the last two weeks with the parents, I want to cut loose and have some fun.”

Liam chuckled. “Yeah, yeah, and you two are going to leave me by my lonesome.”

Doug shrugged. “Hey, you might get lucky, too.” He frowned. “You’ll be okay, won’t you?”

“I’ll be fine. I’m thinking of trying to say hello to Jim again after the match.” Liam smiled. “If you guys get lucky, don’t worry about me. Go have fun, and we can either catch up tomorrow or Monday or just meet up at school on Tuesday.”

Rod held up his forefingers in a cross. “Don’t say that word! That’s still three days away, and I don’t want to think about it before then.”

Doug chuckled. “I’m with Rod on this one. You mention that word again, and we’ll find a creek or lake somewhere to dump you in.”

“Okay, no using the S-word.” Liam grinned. “You know, I can’t think of the last time we went to a football match together.”

“We’re normally playing on a Saturday and then doing family things on Sunday. No games in our comp for Easter means we can go out.” Doug shrugged. “I prefer to play than watch, but it’s a nice change and a lot cheaper than an AFL match.”

“True. Very true. Dad told us that he can only afford to take us to a handful of AFL games this year.” Rod grimaced. “It’s getting too bloody expensive.”

Doug gave Liam a nudge. “Of course, we all know that the only reason you want to see this match is to perve on the guys...”

Liam frowned and gazed past Doug. “Who’s that over there?” When Doug turned to stare in the direction Liam was looking, Liam slapped him over the back of the head.

“Hey!” Doug glared for a moment and then chuckled. “I’ll take that as proof I’m right.”

The three continued their playful banter as they paid the entrance fee and entered the stadium.

“Where do you want to go? Around the boundary line somewhere, or up in the grandstand?” Doug asked.

“There’s more girls in the grandstand....” Rod’s lips twisted into a half smile.

Liam rolled his eyes. “Okay, the grandstand it is.”

The three young guys were approaching when Doug turned to the other two. “For the record, I saw her first.”

“Who?” Rod asked.

Doug grinned. “Top row, nearest to us. The well-endowed black-haired girl in jeans and a Lilydale Leopards jacket who happens to be sitting all alone.”

Rod growled. “Fuck!” He then brightened. “Of course, she’s going to like me better than you, so it doesn’t matter who saw her first.”

Liam grinned. “You’re both hopeless. She’s probably got a boyfriend who’s just gone to get drinks or something.”

Rod punched Liam’s arm. “Shut up! You’re going to ruin things.”

“You tell him, Rod.” Doug grinned. “In fact, you continue to tell him off while I go make her day.”

Rod froze for a moment, mouth open, as Doug raced up the stairs towards the girl. “Hey, wait for me!” Rod called out as he followed his mate.

Liam chuckled to himself as he went up the stairs at a more sedate rate. He arrived as his friends finished introducing themselves.

“Hi, Doug, Rod. I’m Helena.” She smiled at Liam. “Are you with these guys, too?”

Liam grinned. “Unfortunately, yes. I’m Liam.”

Doug glared. “What do you mean, ‛unfortunately’? You’re going to lose best-friend status, if you keep making remarks like that.”

“Are these seats taken?” Rod asked, waving a hand at the spots on either side of Helena.

She chuckled. “Not at the moment, though I’ll probably have some friends join me soon.”

“Friends...no boyfriend?” Doug asked, an eyebrow raised hopefully.

Helena chuckled. “No, my boyfriend isn’t watching the game with me today. He never does.”

Doug slipped into the seat on her right. Rod immediately did the same on her left. Liam grinned as he sat down next to Doug. His two friends were so transparent.

“He doesn’t sound like much of a boyfriend, if he leaves you by yourself on a Saturday afternoon,” Doug said.

She chuckled. “He’s usually busy, but I don’t mind. He’s good to me.”

“But still.... Surely, you can find someone better,” Doug said.

She cocked her head. “With you at the top of that list?”

Rod jumped in before Doug could answer. “Second. I’m first.”

Helena glanced past Doug to Liam. “And you’re third?”

Liam shook his head, grinning broadly. “No. I’m not on the list at all.”

“You’re already taken, then.” She gave him a quick once-over with her eyes. “Not that I’m surprised.”

Liam laughed. “No, I’m single, but I’m gay. Looking for a boyfriend, but they’re not easy to find.”

She chuckled. “True, and you can’t have mine. He’s definitely straight.”

“But he’s left you all by yourself,” Rod said. “What could be more important than being out with you?”

Helena turned to Rod and gave him a smile of appreciation. “Thank you, but the reason he’s not here with me is because he’s going to be out there,” she waved a hand towards the oval, “very soon.”

Rod and Doug both went red, while Liam laughed out loud.

Rod and Doug rose to their feet, but Liam stayed seated. “Who is he?” Liam asked.

“Oliver Bellesconi for the Leopards,” Helena said. She glanced up at the other two guys. “I’m sorry. I was just playing with you. Will you forgive me?”

“I will if you have a twin sister,” Rod said as he sat back down.

Helena chuckled. “I don’t have a twin, but I’m from a large Greek family. I’ve got a younger sister and a couple of cousins who are all single and around our age.”

“Sounds cool to me!” Doug grinned. “You’re forgiven.”

Liam’s forehead wrinkled as he tried to recall the details of her boyfriend. “Oliver.... Small forward? He’s kicked a few goals recently.”

Helena smiled. “Yep, that’s him.” She cocked her head and frowned. “Did you say you’re looking for a boyfriend?”

“Yeah, I am. I haven’t been out of the closet for long, so I haven’t had a lot of chances to meet anyone yet.”

She grinned. “I know a gay guy, about your age. He’s here today. In fact, he’s staying the weekend with Ollie, me, and a couple of the other players. A nice guy; would you like me to introduce you?”

Liam straightened in his seat and a grin appeared on his face. “Sure!”

Helena scanned the crowd by the players’ entrance. “He’s around here somewhere.... There he is!” She pointed.

Liam stared at the mob of people. “Which one?”

“On the left, closer to the middle of the oval. He’s currently got a young boy on his shoulders. He’s wearing a Leopards jacket – one of Ollie’s spares.”

Liam focused his gaze, but the guy was talking to an older tattooed woman and had his back to the grandstand. Liam thought he seemed reasonable looking, at least from the rear.

Doug elbowed Liam. “Typical. We go to meet the girl, and you’re the one who looks like he’s getting a date.” He grinned as he leant over to whisper to Liam. “Go for it!”

“What’s his name?” Liam asked Helena.

Her answer was unnecessary as the young man in question turned around and Liam could clearly see his face.

“Neil. He’s a nice guy. I think you’ll like him.”

Liam didn’t respond. He could feel the blood drain from his face, and a glance to his side showed that Doug didn’t look any better.

Rod frowned. “That’s Four-Dork!”

Liam stood up. He narrowed his eyes at Rod. “Don’t say anything to anyone! Neil’s not out, and we’re not going to be the ones to out him.” He shifted his gaze to Doug. “Sit on him, if you have to. No one must know.” He tried to plead with his eyes, asking Doug to keep things quiet.

Helena glanced at the guys. “You know Neil?”

Doug frowned at Liam. “What are you going to do? You’re not seriously thinking of asking him out, are you?”

Liam grimaced. “I’m going to tell him we know. He deserves that much. Hopefully, he doesn’t freak out.”

Rod laughed. “Four-Dork always freaks out. That’s what makes him so funny.”

Liam glared. “Shut the fuck up! Doug, you deal with Rod. I’m going to deal with Neil.”

Helena stood up and grabbed Liam’s arm as he passed. “What’s going on?”

Liam made a face. “Neil goes to our school. No one there knows he’s gay, at least as far as I know. You’ve just outed him to the three people he hates the most...”

Helena went pale. “You’re the bullies?”

Liam swallowed. “You know about that?”

“Most of the team do. Todd and Ty have been working hard trying to fix the damage you bastards have caused.”

Doug stood up. “Sit down, both of you. Neil doesn’t know we know, and so he’s not hurt. We’re not going to tell anyone.” He glared at Rod. “Right?”

Rod scowled. “What’s up with you two? Is this Be-Nice-to-Four-Dork week? Well, fuck you. I don’t see any reason to do the guy any favours. He’s a loser. Being gay doesn’t change that.”

Doug pushed past Liam and Helena and loomed over Rod. He clenched a fist and held it in front of Rod’s face. “Do or say anything and your teeth will end up sticking out the back of your skull. Stay out of this, Rod. You don’t know what’s been happening over the last three weeks.”

Rod seemed to shrink. “Okay,” he squeaked. He glanced at Liam. “You can date him if you want. I won’t object.”

Liam grimaced. “I’m not going to date him! He might be gay, but I’m not going to jump into bed with him because of that.”

Doug shuddered. “I didn’t need that image, Liam.” He shook his head as he turned to stare down at Neil. “He’s gay.... Who would’ve believed it?”

Helena stared at the three guys. “I don’t know what sort of sick game you’re playing, but I’m going to warn Ollie and Todd about you guys.” She grimaced. “I need to warn Neil, too.”

Doug scowled. “You do that, and he’ll know we know. The idea is to leave him alone. That means you can’t say anything or he’ll freak out.”

Helena frowned. “If you’re the guys who have been bullying him, how can I trust you?”

Liam dropped into the seat that Doug had vacated. He put his head in his hands. “You can’t, which means I’m fucked. I’m well and truly fucked....” He knew Clarissa wouldn’t believe him if he said he had nothing to do with outing Neil.

Doug kicked him. “Nothing’s going to happen. No one says anything, and we all pretend this conversation never happened.” He glared at the other three, Helena included. “Agreed?”

Rod, still cowed, nodded. Liam sighed before indicating his agreement.

Helena frowned. “I don’t know...” She scowled and pointed a finger at Doug. “Don’t you dare break your word. If you do, I’ll hear about it sooner or later, and you’ll find out what it’s like to piss off not only an entire football team but also one very angry Greek girl!”

Doug nodded his head. “Deal. We don’t say anything to anyone.”

* * *

Julie stepped up next to the head coach. “Peter?”

Peter’s eyes never left the play on the oval. “What is it, Julie?”

“Given how one-sided the game has been so far, I’d like to treat this as a training exercise for some of the players.” The Leopards were six goals ahead, and there were still another five minutes until half time.

Peter raised an eyebrow as he looked up at her. “As long as we don’t jeopardise our lead, I don’t see why not.” He glanced past her to Will. “How do you feel about it?”

Will shrugged. “My forwards are already getting a good workout, but they’re dominating so much I’m worried they might start falling into some bad habits simply because the opposition aren’t picking them up on it. I’m game.”

“Okay, Julie, what do you recommend?” Peter returned his attention to the game.

Julie smiled. “Firstly, put Ty on the ball. Make him run and not give him a rest. We’ll probably have to sub him off in the last quarter, but I’ll rip strips off him if he doesn’t make it that far. That should also protect our lead, because it’ll put him in more of the play and give him more chances to score.”

Peter nodded. The Leopards usually only used two onballers to follow the football wherever it went, preferring to use the traditional third ‛follower’ as an extra player in either defence or the midfield. “What else?”

“Put Jai in as the ruck and move Zach to full forward. Jai needs the practise, and Zach isn’t going to go off the boil with one game elsewhere. Using Jai will mean we may not win as many ruck duels, but that’ll be good for my midfielders. They’ll have to work harder to get the contested possessions. In particular, it’ll make Charlie, Jarrod, Euan, and Ollie work on getting the loose ball out to the other players.”

“You’re putting a lot of pressure on them...” Peter frowned.

“They can handle it. They’re going to need to when we hit the stronger teams, and we shouldn’t let them take this game too easy.”

Peter gave a snort of laughter. “Be fair; they’re not taking it easy. If they were, I’d have them on the bench, but I like the ideas.”

“What about Dave? Do you plan on letting him play?” Julie asked.

Peter frowned. “Do you want him on?”

Julie made a face. “He was pretty subdued at training on Monday and Wednesday. If he’s like that today, he won’t be contributing a lot. If he fires up, though, he may go too far the other way. He’s been too erratic lately, and I don’t know what he’s going to do. We don’t need him at the moment, so I think he’s better staying on the bench.”

“Then, that’s where he’ll stay.” Peter glanced at his other assistant coach. “Will, any comments?”

“Just one. Put Jim on the ball, too. That’ll keep the brat focused and will also motivate him to keep going. He’s not going to want to look weak in front of Dad.”

Peter chuckled. “Do you two have something against the brat?” He didn’t wait for an answer but called over his shoulder. “I need two runners. I’ve got lots of instructions to pass on.”

* * *

Doug elbowed Liam. “Stop it!”

“What?” Liam blinked and stared at his best friend. The two of them were alone, as Rod had disappeared to buy some drinks. After the debacle with Helena, the three had decided to sit by themselves.

Doug lowered his voice. “You keep staring at him. We’re here to watch the footy, not Four-Dork!”

Liam grimaced. “I know, but...”

“You can’t seriously be thinking about him. You know what he’s like! You’ll be the laughing stock of the entire school if you start going out with Four-Dork.”

Liam sighed as his attention drifted back to where Neil was seated. “Actually, no, I don’t know what he’s like. He’s not that bad looking. I’d prefer someone with a bit more muscle, but he’s not ugly. But otherwise, I know almost nothing about him.”

“He’s a loser!”

“Why?” When Doug frowned, Liam expanded on his question. “Why is he a loser? What’s he done to make him like that? The only answer I’ve come up with in the last hour is that we’ve spent the last five years making him into a loser. If we hadn’t picked on him, what would he have been like?”

“It doesn’t matter how he got that way; he’s pathetic. He freaks out at the smallest things, and he doesn’t know how to stand up for himself. You can do a lot better. In fact you can do so much better I don’t know how to describe the difference. You could get yourself a movie star, and you’re settling for the hunchback of Notre Dame!”

Liam sighed, his gaze still resting on where Neil was joining with a bunch of Leopard supporters in cheering yet another goal to Lilydale. “He doesn’t look pathetic. He looks happy. He looks nothing like how he is at school. It’s like he’s a different person.”

“Seriously? Just because he’s the only single gay guy you know, I’m not going to let you throw yourself at him.” Doug draped an arm across Liam’s shoulders and gave him a quick squeeze. “There are other guys out there, Liam. Just be patient. You’ll find the right one sooner or later.”

Liam gave Doug a wry smile. “Clarissa mentioned to me just before the end of term that she didn’t know who Neil was, but she was going to find out. I don’t know who Neil is, either, but I’ve found out something that’s turned my perceptions upside down. The guy at school is, as you said, pathetic. That guy,” Liam jerked his head in Neil’s direction, “is not. If I didn’t know anything about him except that he’s gay, single, and is friends with most of the Lilydale Leopards, then I’d be trying to screw up my courage to ask him for a date.” Liam dropped his head. “But I can’t. I’ve spent five years making sure he’d never want me as a boyfriend. I think they call it karma.”

Doug frowned for several seconds. “There’ll be other guys, mate.”

“Where? When?” Liam returned to his new hobby: watching Neil. “You’re probably right, but in the meantime, I’m going to keep tormenting myself with the one single gay guy I know, and that I can’t have.”