The Perfect Son - 6. Chapter 6

I did enjoy having Tyler, Elisi, and Barney there. It was great how we all seemed to have merged our lives with Brad’s. And Brad was proving to be as good a surrogate father as I was. The two were joking and playing with each other as if it had always been this way.

Tyler loved the zoo and even like the carousel. We were going to a matinee of the Lion King, so we cut it short and got ready. Tyler was looking when we got there, he was expecting a movie theatre. Then when we got our seats, he looked a little disappointed when it started and saw a stage, but his eyes widened when the characters came out with those amazing animal props and began singing. He sat still for the whole show! That’s quite an accomplishment for an energetic six-year-old. All through dinner he kept on out great the show was and what he liked best.

That evening, while Brad and Tyler were taking an evening stroll and walking Barney one last time for the night, I broached what I was concerned about to Elisi.

“I’m a bit worried about you, Elisi.”

She smiled. “Why is that?”

“You’re down in Fontana with that little dynamo. I don’t want you to feel overwhelmed.” I explained.

She laughed. “Tyler is a powder keg of energy, but he’s a good boy. I can handle him.” Then she looked at me with a serious face. “Your life is with Brad now. I know that. It’s the way it’s supposed to be. I’m not slowing down anytime soon.” Then she kissed me on the cheek. “Thank you for being concerned. But you have your hands full here. Enjoy this time. Don’t worry so much.” As I said in the beginning. She was amazingly well preserved. She looked twenty years less than she was. “I’m not dying. But I look forward to being with your grandfather again. I miss him every day.” She smiled again. “But he’ll have to wait. I’ve got a lot of plans for the near future.”

The elevator sounded and I expected Brad and Tyler. Then I heard the call.

“Hopefully I’m not interrupting anything,” Bobby called out from the entrance gallery.

I grinned. “Bobby!” I got up as he came in.

“Hi.” Bobby stopped when seeing my grandmother. “I forgot. You’ve got company.”

“Bobby Thomas, this is my grandmother, Carla Sams. Elisi, this is Brad’s older brother Bobby.” I introduced.

“And the best looking of the Thomas sons.” Bobby declared as he shook Elisi’s hand.

I grinned. “Well, I disagree, but you’re entitled to your opinion. Even if it’s wrong.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Sams,” Bobby said. “I was in town and thought I’d stop by.” He looked around briefly. “Is Brad here? Or have you thrown him out?”

“He’s with my nephew walking Barney. Tyler’s dog.”

Bobby looked a little surprised. “That’s….very domestic.” He got serious a little. “You’ve had a great effect on him, Eric. He’s changed a lot. That can only be attributed to you.”

I smiled. “Brad’s personality was always there. I just helped him bring it out.”

“Well, I like it,” Bobby stated. “Anyway, I just came by. Tell Brad hello for me. I’ll see you at the house for lunch.” He waved at Elisi. “It’s nice to meet you. You’ll be there, right?”

Elisi smiled and nodded. “Oh, yes.” But something rang in her voice that told it was going to be more than I thought and be prepared. “It’s good to meet you.”

After Bobby had gone. I looked at Elisi. “Not going to tell me, are you?”

“No.” Elisi smiled.

“Not even it if it’s bad or good?”

“No.” Then she pointed at me. “No more questions.”

 

The next day, we drove to Connecticut. Elisi just stared at the massive home we drove up to. We went into the living area where Brad’s brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew and Duchess were. I introduced everyone. Even Amanda seemed to be more polite. It seemed Bobby told her to be and she was accepting what was happening. We were told Cynthia was coming but had a meeting with the ladies at church and we were to start without her as she would have lunch with them. Tyler appeared to like and get along well with Heather and Jason. And it was a good lunch and visit, but I wondered what Tyler had seen since Cynthia was not there. Duchess and Elisi got along great and that was nothing I had worried about but was reassured by it. After lunch, we went back to the living area and continued our visit. It was nearly three in the afternoon when Cynthia came in. She saw who was there and without a word, turned to walk out.

Brad, I could see, had enough. “Do you want me dead, Mother?”

Cynthia froze and turned. “What?”

“That’s what I had contemplated on the trail. I was thinking of killing myself rather than tell you the truth about me.” Brad said sadly. “I knew, but was too chicken to admit it, even to myself.”

Cynthia frowned. “Don’t be silly. Of course, I don’t want you dead.”

“So, what’s the issue other than the fact I love Eric?” His voice cracked a little. “All my life, I did whatever you asked me to do. I went to the school you wanted me to go to. I dated the girl you approved of. I took the courses you wanted me to. I served at the church. I did everything you wanted me to do, to win your approval. But you never gave it.” He sighed.
“And for once, I asked you to accept a decision I made. And you can’t.”

Cynthia stiffened. “You told the whole world you have sex with men!”

“Wrong, Mother!” Brad shouted angrily. “I told the world I loved him!” He pointed to me. “I do not and have not had sex with men. I have loved and will continue to love him, yes, but only him.” He walked forward. “I’ve had sex with two people. Diana and Eric. One, Diana, I did it because it seemed I was supposed to. I did it to see if I could. It meant nothing to me, but an act. There was no love involved. It made me sick.”

Cynthia looked distressed. “I don’t want you to be gay!!”

“I am gay!!” Brad shouted louder. “That is who I am! When I met Eric, it was as if I had been wearing blinders for two decades! When I realized why and accepted it, it was like the world changed! It became something I wanted to be in and a part of.”

“And everyone has to know?”

“Why shouldn’t they!?” Brad asked. “You wear a ring that tells the whole world you were having sex with Dad!! Bobby and I are living proof that you did! We’re human! Sex is as much a part of life as breathing or eating! So, I picked Eric! He’s a good man. You’d like him if you gave him a chance.” Then he shook his head. “Sex isn’t bad mother. In fact, I enjoy it very much. I love him! Tell me, did Dad ever request a blow job? Maybe a little creativity?”

“That’s none of your business!” Cynthia shouted.

“That’s my point!!” Brad shouted back. “It’s none of my business! Nor is what I do, or who I do it with any of yours! A relationship between Eric and I is between us. Stay out of my bedroom!” He turned. “Will you see where Tyler is?” He asked me. “Let’s go home.”

I nodded, but Elisi touched my arm. “I’ll get him. He’s with Heather and Jason.” She said.

Brad looked at his mother. “I don’t understand why this is such an embarrassment to you. I no longer care if you approve or don’t. This stance you have will not get me to change my mind. I’m marrying Eric. These people here are my family. That includes this lovely woman who accepted me from the moment I walked into their lives. In fact, she has been thrilled to welcome me, knowing Eric and I are in love. She doesn’t care. But if my life is so embarrassing to you, fine. I won’t bother you again. I’ll be dead for you. If you want to miss all that is coming, fine. Eric loves me. In fact, he’s changing his name. Taking my name. Not yours, mine.” Brad took my hand. “Come on, Baby.” He turned to Amanda. “You were so worried about my soul, did you forget, even the Pope said not to judge and the church needs to ask us for forgiveness. And if his ears aren’t tuned into God, then why is he there? You can start apologizing with me. When you’re ready.” He hugged Duchess. “I’ll see you, Duchess. I love you.”

Duchess nodded. “Take care, Son.” She said and hugged me. “We’ll see you often.” She said to me with a smile.

He said goodbye to the rest of his family. Then as we were heading out. “Mrs. Thomas. I will come back to see Duchess. I will call first so you can avoid seeing me. This is the last you’ll probably see me, Mrs. Thomas.”

Shock. Stunned at her son’s behavior that she had never been seen before. Cynthia was speechless and just watched as we left.

Traffic this Sunday was more what you’d expect, not like last week. I looked about as Brad drove wanting to give Brad space to think.

“Are you alright?” I finally asked.

His bright smile was unexpected. “I feel better than…” he thought. “I can’t remember feeling this good. It’s like this huge pressure has suddenly been lifted from me.”

I was thrilled to hear this. “Wonderful.”

“I look forward to a long life of loving you, Eric.” Brad took my hand and kissed it. “I love you. Now, we have to plan a wedding!”

I grinned at him. “I look forward to it. The loving and planning. I adore you, Brad.”

 

We started the next morning a little different. I was going to fly with Elisi and Tyler back to Fontana, but Brad needed to go work. I was getting Tyler his breakfast and preparing Brad’s latte. Elisi let out a whistle as Brad walked in dressed for work. I grinned at him as he stopped and did a slow turn so she could see.

“Watch him, Eric,” Elisi warned grinning. “He’ll be breaking hearts.”

He and I kissed. “Maybe, but not mine.” I grinned.

“Never.” Brad took the latte. “You’ll be home when?”

“I’ll call you. Probably before you leave the office.” I replied.

Brad snapped his fingers. “Oh, yeah. We need to get you another phone.”

I frowned. “Why?”’

Brad looked as if he didn’t understand why I asked. “Your phone is clogged. You need a secure phone. Only I will be able to call and Elisi, Bobby, and others you approve of. It’s sad but necessary.”

I shrugged. “Tomorrow.”

Brad looked doubtful. “We have that interview with CBS Local. We’ll do it on Wednesday.”

I shrugged again. “Whatever.” I looked at Elisi. “I’m marrying him, you know?”

Elisi nodded. “I heard.” She grinned.

Brad scooped up Tyler and did his tickle thing making Tyler laugh again. “I’ll see you at Thanksgiving.” He gave Barney a playful couple of slaps. “Chase lots of rabbits.” Then he hugged me.

“God, you smell so good,” I said enjoying contact with him.

“I’ll send a note to the cologne manufacturer. Let them know it’s working. That’s what they make it for.” Brad kissed me and left.

Elisi smiled. “He has really come around.” She marveled.

“One hundred and eighty degrees. Once the restrictions were released, he has really blossomed.” I agreed. I sighed. “God, I love that man.”

 

A trip to Fontana and a trip back took most of the day. But as I predicted, I was back before he got off work. He texted me he was coming. So, I got things ready. I had plans.

Brad came on the floor, saw most of the lights were off except for the kitchen. He walked in putting his briefcase down with a sigh, loosening his tie. “What a day…” then he froze as he saw me and smiled. “Naked, a bucket of oysters, some caviar, champagne…are you planning to seduce me?”

“Absolutely.”

He grinned walking slowly toward me. “I don’t need aphrodisiacs with you to be seduced by you.”

I shrugged. “A boost doesn’t hurt.” I reached out to the growing bulge forming in his pants and rubbed. “See? It’s already working.”

He bent down kissing me tenderly. “Yes, it is.” He slipped off his jacket.

For a man that had been suppressed, he made up for lost time. I said he was affectionate, and he was. And very passionate.

The next morning we had the interview and was at the studio at 6 am. The interview was at 8 am. Hurry up and wait. And it was interesting they chose Steve Waring as our interviewer. He was an anchor with CBS’s Logo channel. Openly gay and very good. Attractive, dark hair and mid-thirties. We went over some things we were willing and not willing to talk about. And all the waiting ended as the cameras suddenly had the red light come on.

“Good morning, New York.” Steve grinned at the camera. “I’m here with a couple that really I don’t have to tell you who they are, as their pictures have been in the news for over a week. Bradley Thomas and Eric Davis.” He turned to us. “Thank you for coming.”

Brad nodded. “Thanks for having us and letting us get the word out about us and what’s happening.”

“It was surprising when it came out in the news, that you were now out, Mr. Thomas,” Steve commented. “Here’s a man, one of the youngest CEOs of a major financial conglomerate. A very good looking man. Heralded as the most eligible bachelors in New York and you are gay.”

Brad looked puzzled. “I am.”

“But you were engaged for some time to Diana Fischer.”

Brad nodded. “I was.” He was feeling a bit uncomfortable with this part. “I was engaged to her and she is a great person. But I couldn’t love her the way she wanted and deserved.”

“How did she take it this news?”

Brad grinned. “Relieved.” He chuckled. “When she realized that there was nothing wrong with her, it was my issue. I was gay. It settled some doubts she had. And to be honest, if I had continued and married her. We would both have been miserable.”

Steve was nodding. “And how did you and Mr. Davis meet?”

Brad took my hand, again, we did it so often, it was without thought. “You tell that.” He said to me.

“Brad was in a dark place emotionally and in his mind. He had gone out to try to solve the issue. He came by where I live and it happened so quickly. We hadn’t expected to meet. He was not thinking about who he could meet or why he was there. It just happened. I had the hard time.” I said chuckling. “Not that I wasn’t attracted to the man, I was, but it was so quick, I had to be sure.”

Brad squeezed my hand. “Now, be honest. I had no idea…I mean, I was brought up in a very strict home. I had no idea what gay life was really like. The first kiss, I had to close my eyes!” He chuckled. Then he turned and kissed me quickly. “They’re not closed now!”

Steve chuckled. “No, they’re not.” He looked again at me. “Now, you’re from a pretty famous family yourself. Don’t you have some pretty famous members of your family?”

I nodded. “My mother was Elizabeth Sams Davis. She was a brilliant pianist. And Liesl Gertrude Braun, she was my great-grandmother, she was a prodigy. Also a pianist. And there is Carla Sams, my grandmother, she’s a famous sculptor of Cherokee Native American art.”

“Wow.” Steve marveled.

I grinned. “Well, I haven’t decided what I want to be when I grow up.” Making Brad and Steve chuckle.

Steve pointed to Brad. “You were in the closet, but you, Mr. Davis, never were. Is that right?”

I nodded. “I never was in the closet. No.”

“And your family knew,” Steve said.

“Of course.”

“How do they feel about that?” Steve asked.

“My only surviving relative is Elisi. Sorry, my grandmother. And two others. Elisi was thrilled. In fact, she loved Brad the day he walked through our door.”

“Did either of you, your grandmother or you, know who Mr. Thomas was?” Steve asked.

“None,” I said. “When Brad and I came to New York, I had no idea where or how he lived. I was shocked.” I sat forward. “I couldn’t believe what a kind, compassionate, unselfish man he was. How could he have come from such wealth!? He makes the bed, did his own laundry, helped around the house! He wasn’t asked.”

Steve smirked. “He needs to talk to my husband.”

“Send him over,” Brad said. “My brother and I were taught to expect that no one would do some things for us. We were expected to clean our rooms and do chores even though we did have staff.”

I looked at the camera. “Thanks, Duchess.”

Brad chuckled. “Duchess is my grandmother.”

“So, how did the news hit your family, Mr. Thomas?” Steve asked.

Brad shrugged. “Like Elisi, Duchess was thrilled. She loves Eric. My brother was surprised, but after that, he was fine with it. I have a sister-in-law that had a hard time, but I think she’ll see reason. There is someone that made it clear I was no longer her son.” He said bitterly. Then he shrugged. “Fine.”

Steve nodded sympathetically. “I’ve been there myself. My brother still won’t talk to me.”

“And what the hell’s up with that!?” Brad growled. “I love someone. You love someone. What business is it of theirs who that is!? They won’t be in bed with us! Who cares?”

Steve nodded with a tight smile. “You’re preaching to the choir.” Then he brightened. “So, when’s the wedding?”

“He only proposed about a week ago. We haven’t had time to plan.” I explained.

“But I intend to show everyone who I’m marrying and how much I love him,” Brad added. “It’s going to be off the charts!”

Steve looked off stage as the guy in charge of time was signaling time was up.

Steve actually looked disappointed. “And we’re out of time!” He lamented. “Well, let me say, congratulations to you both. There are dozens of questions I can ask, but we have to stop. Please, come back another time. I promise to get to those questions.”

Brad stuck his hand out to Steve. “Thanks for hearing us.” Then he looked at the camera. “Please, when I’m out with friends or family. Respect us as people. Don’t approach our table and ask for answers.”

Steve looked a little shocked at that. “I am assuming that happened recently.”

Brad nodded. “It did. She won’t be getting a call from us.”

Steve looked at the camera. “You heard him.” Then he turned to shake both our hands. “Thanks for coming, you two. I wish you the best in the future.”

I watched as the red light on the camera went out and blew a relaxing breath. “That should help,” I told Brad and Steve.

“A reporter asked questions while you were out with family?” Steve asked a little horrified.

“Sheila Miller.” Brad groused.

Steve gave a nod of understanding. “Yeah, she’s a predator.”

“Think she got the message?” I asked Brad.

“She’d better, or I’ll have to take her to court.” He waggled his eyebrows. “And I know just the lawyer to do it. We played together.”

I grinned. “I’m sure Bobby would do it.”

“He loves that stuff!” Brad said confidently. He turned to Steve. “Be the first to get an invitation to the wedding, when we decide when. You and your husband.”

Steve looked shocked. “Thank you, Mr. Thomas. I know Dave will be thrilled!”

“You can drop the Mr. Thomas and Mr. Davis part. It’s Brad and Eric.” I said smiling.

“I really don’t have that many friends,” Brad admitted. “I would like to consider you one.”

Steve was smiling at that. “I’d love it, Brad. We will be there!”

“And just toss the rice, don’t throw it at us.” Brad chuckled as Steve laughed and we headed off. Walking out of the studio hand in hand.

 

I had no job. I hate being idle! I took care of Brad and even if we went to lunch every day, which I gladly did, I needed something to do. I bit the bullet and went shopping. I hate shopping. I’m not that sort of gay man! Jeans and a t-shirt was my normal wear! But it was getting colder in Manhattan and I needed a good coat. I had the black credit card, might as well use it. I wasn’t going to embarrass Brad so I did the high-end thing. They wanted $800 or more for jeans! I said no to that. I did go to Armani as well as Boss and others. I ended up taking half of our closet space. But I didn’t have to take them home!! Then I saw a flyer, one of Gordon Ramsey’s restaurants were having cooking instructions. It was just chemistry, but what did I have to lose? So, I signed up. I felt guilty having so much fun and Brad was slaving away. Then when I’d go up in the Thomas Building, that feeling went away. He was having fun, too. He enjoyed working at Thomas Shipping and Industries! As always, Doris was happy to see me.

I came up to her desk. “Is he in a meeting?”

Doris looked up and smiled. “Hi, Eric. No, he went downstairs, he’ll be back in…never mind, here he comes.” She pointed at a man that was whistling as he walked. “Whatever you're feeding him, don’t stop.” She told me.

“Hi, Baby!” Brad greeted kissing me. “You wanna have lunch?”

I turned to Doris. “Sure, I’d love to have lunch with Doris.”

Brad frowned. “Not that I mind, but I meant me, dummy.”

“Why?” I teased.

He took my hand. “Hold my calls, please?” He kissed Doris on the cheek who was smiling at us. “Because you love me, perhaps?” He said to me shutting the door behind us.

“Who says I even like you? That’s so gay.” I kidded.

He brought me to his desk and leaned over me as I was pushed down on the desk. “Yes, it is.” His mouth kissing me passionately. His one hand hit the button to secure the door. “And you do like me. A little.”

He smelled good, he looked good. I pulled him even closer. “Yes, a little.” My hands ran through his hair, then around his back. “I love you, Brad.”

He chuckled. “I know you do. I don’t have to tell you. You know I love you.”

We’ve broken in that desk many times. I had to move the new picture of me on his desk. We didn’t want to knock it off. I looked good in it.

After we were done, he was fixing his pants and shirt. I looked at his pictures. “I need one of you.”

“You want a picture?” Brad asked smiling. “A little porn? You can see me naked anytime you want.”

I rolled my eyes. “I just did! I want a picture of you. One of the two of us would be great, too.” Then I looked. “You need one of Tyler and Elisi.”

He nodded. “I do.” He hugged me. “Okay. Anything you want.” Then he looked at me. “Now can we do lunch? I’m starving.”

“Let’s go.” I took his hand and we went downstairs. I hadn’t been to all the restaurants in the building yet but was determined to try as many as I could. Only he didn’t stop at any of those. Instead, he headed out the door and down to the street. Stopping at hot dog stand!

“Hank has the best hot dogs in New York!” Brad declared. “Is that okay with you?”

“Sure! I love hot dogs!”

Brad grinned. “Trust me to decide?”

“Okay.”

We walked up to a man approaching sixty. “Hi, Hank!”

The man looked up with a smile. “Hey there, Brad! The usual?”

Brad nodded. “Four, please.”

The man nodded and began dishing out what he needed. A lot of chili was involved. “Congratulations on the upcoming wedding.” He nodded at me.

“Thanks!” Brad responded. He handed me two. “Best in New York, Hank!”

Hank looked offended. “Think I don’t know that?” He then smiled. “That’s how I get you hot shots.”

I grabbed a big napkin and stuffed it down in the front of his shirt. “Chili on a hot dog with a dress shirt is an invitation for disaster.”

Brad grinned. “Thanks, Baby.”

This was not the Bible Belt. I know there had to be narrow-minded here like anywhere. Brad had a sister-in-law that was like that, but most people didn’t care! Hank just chuckled. “Taking care of the husband already.”

I shrugged. “He will be.”

Hank gave me a smile. “Yeah, but he’s told all of New York he was marrying you. My son lives with this girl. Great girl. I keep telling him to marry her already. How are you going to take care of her if the unforgivable happens?”

We chuckled, but I saw Brad’s face change. He was thinking. It looked like strong thought.

I touched his arm. “Brad?”

He snapped out of his thoughts. “Huh?”

“Are you okay?” I asked as we went to the outdoor fountain park in front of the Thomas Building where there were benches. “That looked like an intense thought .”

Brad smiled as we sat down. “It was.” He chuckled. “I’d say it was nothing, but I can’t lie to you and you would know it was. Let me percolate on it. I’ll tell you, I swear.”

I nodded. “Okay.” Then I grinned. “Percolate? Something was bubbling, but I trust you.” I pressed a quick kiss, then bit into one of my hot dogs. “Oh, my god! This is good!”

Brad grinned even more. “Told ya.” He waved at Hank’s cart. “Why else would I let him park here?”

 

I went home after that. I wasn’t really sleepy, but I was feeling tired. So, I lay down across the bed thinking I really needed to get a job here. This man of leisure wasn’t my thing. And I drifted off to sleep. I was awakened as a hand ran up my side, across my chest and the touch of lips moving across my jaw to stop over my lips. That wonderful smell of his cologne I liked him to wear greeted me. I needed to make sure he always had it on hand. Reaching up, my arms encircling him and pulled him down to me. Then I was startled to realize he was there! The sun was still up.

“Brad?” I looked at my watch. “It’s only 5 pm. Why are you home?”

He grinned. “Because I live here.”

I narrowed an eye at him. “You know what I mean.”

He nodded. “I know. Aren’t you glad to see me?”

I rolled us over pulling his arms up over his head. “That’s a dumb question. Of course, I am.” It was my turn to kiss his jaw and go to that spot I knew he had above his neck behind his right ear which brought a moan from him.

“You sure do make me feel welcome.” He said a little thickly. “You know my buttons.”

I continued. “I’m still learning, but the ones I know, I got.”

Then Brad pushed me back a little and rolled us again, so he was straddling me. “Wait! I want to talk with you seriously.” Then he grinned. “We can continue doing what we started afterward. I’ll even let you indulge in your fetish to your heart’s content.”

“What sort of incentive is that? You do that anyway.” I chuckled.

He gave a mocking growl. “How about, I won’t until you hear me out.”

“That’s sexual blackmail!”

He grinned. “I know.” Then he grew serious. “We’re getting married.” It wasn’t a question.

“Unless we change our minds, we are.”

“That ain’t happening.” He shook his head. “Who’s your next of kin?”

I wondered why he was asking. “Elisi, you know that.”

“And we’re getting married when?”

Now I was beginning to get it a little. “We haven’t decided. It will be a few months. I was thinking in September, the anniversary of when we met.”

He grinned. “That would be great. In the meantime, until we do marry. God forbid something were to happen to you…say you need surgery. They will have to call Elisi to get permission. And there’s me. If something were to happen to me. Who is my next of kin?”

“You have several. What are you saying?”

He sat up still straddled over me. “My brother could, and I would trust he’d do the right thing. Or Duchess, I know she would, or that woman that bore me.”

I frowned. “You may be mad at her, Brad, but she’s still your mother.”

He grimaced. “Don’t remind me.”

“We could get a power-of-attorney,” I suggested.

“Or…” he grinned. “We can just go ahead and marry.”

I looked at him surprised. “What about the wedding?”

He waved that off. “We’ll still get married. It’s to show the world I have a great person I want to join my life with and be my husband. And we still can.” He looked at me, and I’ve only seen him look that serious a few times. “And I want that. I just think we need to get the legal stuff done now. Marry, get your name changed as well as make a will.”

“A will!?”

Brad nodded and grinned. “I’m not planning to die. But if it happens, you’re protected. Hank reminded me I needed to do that. A power-of-attorney would work, but if we are going to do that, why not marry? It will automatic. And there are things I need to be specified in a will. As well as you.” He was thinking again. “I had this employee. A great guy. He was engaged to marry this wonderful woman. But they did not think ahead. They moved into a house he bought but hadn’t put her name on the deed. He was going to. Two months before the wedding, he had an aneurysm. The sad thing is, it didn’t kill him, but he was left pretty much a vegetable.”

I cringed. “Awe, geez.”

Brad nodded. “Yes.” He agreed. “He and his fiancé had discussed it, but never put it in writing. She knew he wouldn’t want that. But his parents blew in, threw her out of her home and put him on life support. She was left with nothing.” He stretched out beside me. “You have that great home in Fontana. When Elisi does pass away, who does the house go to?”

“Me, and probably my sister and then Tyler.”

“If I die. I want you to have all this. The money, the cars, the house…”

“Brad!” My heart nearly broke at the thought.

He kissed me gently. “I don’t intend to.” He assured. “But you and I both know it happens. Your father, your mother, your grandfather. I know from my father. And there are the voting shares. I want those to go to you.”

I knew he was saying what he needed to, it just made me…uneasy. “I don’t know anything about what you do. You’ve done it for almost twenty years! I’ve been here not even a month.”

Brad put a hand through my hair. “I know.” Then he smiled at me, and it was a kind, sweet smile. “As I said, I don’t intend to die. But I don’t want…” he swallowed. “…my mother deciding whether I go to surgery, or put on life support or get my voting shares.”

I nodded wrapping arms around him. “Sure.” I agreed. “I hate part of this conversation, but I understand. Sure. Let’s do it.” Then I grinned. “So when are we marrying?”

Brad grinned rolling us back so he was on top again, only this time he pulled his tie off. “I was thinking about Friday. I called Bobby, he’s getting the paperwork together.”

“You told your brother before asking me,” I growled.

“But I asked you before. You said yes. Now I’m suggesting a time.” He pulled his shirt out of his pants and tossed it aside. “You just show up. He’ll be a witness. We can ask Duchess to be one too. Maybe Doris?” He pulled the t-shirt over his head, knowing what I’d see. “I’d suggest Elisi, but she’s a thousand miles away.”

My fingers went into his chest hairs. “We can ask Steve Waring. He’s a friend now. It might be better to have a witness that isn’t family.” My body was reacting to what I saw, felt and smelled. Pheromones, remember? I rolled him back over, pinning his arms up and ran my nose over his chest hairs and into his armpits. Intoxicating! The cologne added to the sensation. The truth is, he liked when I did this as much as I liked doing it. It was a win-win!

He shivered as my tongue went over his pit. “Yeah.” He said feeling the sensation. “Fine.” He took a deep breath. “We don’t tell Mother.”

Naturally, with all the stimulation I was getting, I wanted to make love, so I undid his pants.

We had a great night!!!

 

We both went in the next morning. Brad called Steve and asked if we could meet for lunch and of course, the answer was yes. Then Bobby dropped by with the legal paperwork while Brad was in a meeting. That done, Brad came back and asked Doris if she could take a lunch, he needed to ask her something. Again, yes.

We opted for a great Asian restaurant in the building so no one had to travel too far. We were in the meal when Brad put down his chopsticks. “Steve, what I want to ask you. When I tell you, it goes no farther than here. As a friend. Can you do that?”

Steve hadn’t asked what this was about but nodded. “Sure.”

Brad took my hand. “Well, there are some legal issues that we just…it has to be done. Is everyone available Friday, say eleven am?”

There were nods from Steve and Doris.

“Eric and I are marrying Friday,” Brad stated. “We want you, Steve and Doris, to be our witnesses.”

Doris gasped and clutched her heart with a look of delight. Steve just grinned but shook his head.

“Dave will be pissed!” Steve declared.

Brad chuckled. “I assume he can be trusted, you married him.”

“He will explode not being able to tell, but yes.” Steve nodded.

“Bring him.” Brad shrugged. “We can always use ushers or something.”

Duchess, we found out wasn’t going to make it.

“She said if she goes into town, Mom will want to know why,” Bobby explained. “Duchess hates lying. She said she’d wait for the wedding. She’d love to be at the marriage on Friday, she just didn’t see how.” He sat forward. “Listen. Where are we meeting for Thanksgiving?”

Brad looked confused. “We aren’t going to the mansion.”

Bobby nodded. “Neither are we.” He said. “I was thinking of getting Duchess and we can meet somewhere. The penthouse?”

“Are you opposed to going to Fontana?” I asked.

“Your home?” Bobby asked.

Brad looked at me concerned. “You think Elisi would mind?”

I shrugged. “She’d love it. We have enough bedrooms…” then I thought. “Well, Tyler will have to bunk somewhere. If Duchess comes, as well as Amanda and the kids, we can put in Tyler in with us.”

Brad looked at his brother. “What do you say?”

Bobby grinned. “I’d love it! I’m dying to see this wonderful home!” He looked at Doris. “Eric’s house is a piano. I can’t wait to see it.”

“What!?” Doris marveled. “A piano?”

We explained Mom and great-grandmother’s past, granddad’s tinkering and his addition to the life I had been brought up in.

 

That afternoon I called Elisi and asked her, which I knew she’d be thrilled. I promised Brad and I would come down Sunday before to help. “And Elisi….we’ll be married by then.”

“You decided on a date without me?” Elisi asked a bit hurt.

I explained what Brad had said and why. “The wedding still needs planning, and we intend to do it. But, just to secure things with each other, this was the best way.”

“Of course.” She did understand. “But I’m sort of disappointed. I would like to be there.”

I looked at Brad who was lying back against me as we sat on the sofa. “Well, we could fly you up. Do you want to do that? It’ll be on Thursday. We can make it a long weekend.”

“I’d like that.”

I nodded. “Then that’s what we’ll do. I’ll be down tomorrow morning. Will Tyler be able to miss two days of school?”

She snorted. “He’s in the first grade. I think he’ll be fine. That way we can all fly back on Monday to get ready for Thanksgiving.”

I grinned. “Sounds like a plan.” I hung up and wrapped my arms around Brad. “This is going to be fun.”

“The marriage or the visit?” Brad chuckled.

“Both!” I said. “And part of your family gets to see Fontana!”

“Yea,” Brad said softly rolling over. “Let’s go to bed.”

I grinned. “But it’s early.”

“I didn’t say we were going to sleep,” Brad said pulling me up hugging me. “I just can’t seem to keep my hands off you.”

“You must be addicted.” I laughed. “It’s a honeymoon period for us.”

“Honeymoon?”

“Sure, you know when a young bride and groom pay all this money for a resort or cruise. And hardly ever come out of the room?”’

“I can see that.” Brad nodded. Then he snapped his fingers. “I need to call to make sure the plane’s available.”

 

The next morning, I flew to Asheville and brought Elisi, Tyler, and Barney back. It was not bad having access to a plane. We were back before rush hour. We dressed and went to the office the next morning. I had to at least put on a suit.

“Remember, Tyler. This is a secret.” Elisi reminded.

“I know,” Tyler said wearily.

By ten people at Thomas Shipping and Industries were becoming curious as to who all the people were going into Brad’s office. Bobby was family, but Elisi and Tyler were family, too, then the judge for the marriage. Then Steve and Dave arrived. Dave was a burly man, not fat, but muscles that had been worked on. Some had no doubt wondered and figured it out. Why would family come, then a well-dressed man that reeked authority, and then a TV reporter and another man? All going into Brad’s office? It couldn’t be a meeting if Elisi and Tyler were there. Then Doris had a girl sit in her chair with instructions to hold calls and went in the office!

 

The judge smiled at us. “So, where are we doing this?” He asked. “You said you wanted a kind of traditional question and answer.”

Doris and Elisi looked and both agreed in front of the fireplace. This was so fast, only as we approached the fireplace did it hit me. I was getting married!!

We stood before the judge who just grinned. “I’m really here for the state of New York. But, what the hell. Do you, Eric Stewart Davis, take Bradley Rufus Thomas as your lawful husband, forsaking all others in sickness and in health?”

“I do.”

“Do you Bradley Rufus Thomas, take Eric Stewart Davis as your lawful husband, forsaking all others in sickness and in health?”

Brad grinned. “I do.”

The judge nodded. “I suspected you would. I have to say, I watched you two. The news and articles. And just here in this room. It was apparent you were in love. So, it gets me great pleasure, by the authority given me by the state of New York. You are married.” He leaned toward us. “I guess you’ll want to seal the deal. Kiss already!”

Brad grinned. “I don’t need to be told.” He kissed me with as much passion and love. He hugged me. “We have to keep this rated PG at least.”

“There are straights in the room.” I chuckled. “I love you, Husband.”

“I love you, Husband.”

The judge pointed to us. “I present, Bradley and Eric Thomas.”

Elisi was crying, as was Doris. Even Dave was crying, the big marshmallow. Steve just hugged his husband and speaking quietly to him.

“Welcome to the family, Eric.” Bobby smiled, but he was even touched a bit. “I’m glad to have you as a brother.” He hugged me.

There were forms to sign. The wedding license, the will, and the name change. By twelve-thirty it was all over. And Brad decided to give everyone at Thomas the day off and he was taking the marriage party to lunch.

“Giving everyone the day early,” Doris said. “You’re giving them a week for Thanksgiving.” Then she nodded. “You’re a good man, Brad. Do you mind if I head out instead? Get a head start? I’ve got children coming…”

“Why wait?” Brad asked. “I’ll see you next Monday. Thanks for being a friend, as well as a great worker.”

Doris smiled and hugged both of us. “Congratulations. I’ll see you then.”

“After lunch, do you think Elisi and Tyler will be alright at the penthouse without us tonight?” Brad asked me.

“We’re going somewhere else?” I asked smiling as I had an idea about what he was planning.

Brad chuckled. “I’d like us to go where we can make as much noise as we like.”

I nodded. “I’m not the noisy one, but I’ll give her my key and send her home after lunch.” I reached around squeezing a rounded backside causing him to yelp a bit. “See?”

Lunch was great, we talked at kidded and when it was done, Brad sent Elisi and Tyler back to the penthouse and he took me to a beautiful hotel. The very hotel we lived in! A few floors down from the penthouse. And we did make noise.

After we had vigorous lovemaking, Brad was gasping and catching his breath after he collapsed on me I was kissing him between those gasps. Playing with his hair. “Tell me again how I managed to get such a great person as you.”

He chuckled. “Great person? Hardly.”

I frowned. “You are a great person. I’d put you up against anyone. Even your Pope!”

He shrugged. “I was sheltered. You know that.”

“But there had to be temptations. People had to have flirted.”

He nodded. “Sure. But if you don’t like girls in the first place, you don’t flirt back. And any guy that tried to make a pass. I was in denial of my own homosexuality, so again…no.”

“I am a lucky, lucky man. You are a loving, affectionate and passionate man. I love you.”

“My husband.” Brad smiled. “No one or nothing can break us up.”

 

           

We flew back to Fontana Monday, Bobby, Amanda, Heather, Jason and Duchess were coming on Wednesday. We began to get the house ready for our guests. We put a cot in the guest room for Heather to sleep in the room with her parents. Jason was only three, so he was sleeping in the bed with his parents. It was a queen-sized bed, so no problem. Duchess was taking Tyler’s room and a cot was put in my old room so Tyler could sleep in our room. I had taken and was still taking cooking lessons, but what I learned was helping. I got some supplies and Elisi and I cooked up a storm. The turkey was thawing, I made cranberry/raspberry tarts, a pumpkin cheesecake, regular pumpkin pie, chocolate cake. And what Thanksgiving doesn’t have green bean casserole? Brad offered to help, but Elisi and I chased him away. He didn’t know how to cook. He could make coffee and heat a bagel. We had him entertain Tyler. Those with Barney in the mix, the three were having a great time!

Then the front door opened. It was on Tuesday.

“Hi, everyone!” A voice called.

A chill went down my back as I recognized the voice. My sister. It just came out. “You can’t be here!”

My sister looked…well…she must have lived hard. She had dark hair like mine and she was four years older chronologically but looked about forty. “I lived here.”

“Lived! Pasted tense!” I shouted. “And don’t tell you missed Tyler. Or us! You haven’t been here in five years!”

Elisi put a hand on my shoulder. “Easy, Eric.” She walked in front of me. “You should have told us you were coming, Lynn. We have guests coming for Thanksgiving.”

“So, you’re kicking me out,” Lynn said.

“We’re not letting you in,” I growled. My eyes narrowed. “Why now? Why come back now? What happened? Have you blown your trust fund?”

“No,” Lynn said.

A lie. “What drugs are you doing?” I asked getting angrier.

“I’m not.”

A lie! “You have to be. I can tell without using my talent. Or have you forgotten about that?”

“This boy can run you ragged.” Brad was saying as he came in the back door and froze. “I’m sorry.” Tyler laughing as he was being carried piggyback, but suddenly was white with fear. For whatever reason, he hadn’t seen her coming in his mind. But knew she was trouble.

Lynn saw Tyler and walked toward them. “Hi, baby.”

I got between her and Brad, Tyler got behind Brad. “Don’t you touch either of them!”

Elisi touched my arm again. “She’s his mother.”

“She gave birth to him, but she is not his mother,” I said to Elisi, but still looking at Lynn. “I am his father. Elisi is his mother. You left!!” Now I was furious. “This Thanksgiving you’re here!? You’ve missed five of the last six. Every birthday, Christmas, Fourth of July. So, I’m demanding, why?”

“Eric!” Elisi shouted coming in front of me. “Stop this right now. Your sister is home.”

I nodded. “Again. Why?” I turned to Lynn. “You left! You left Tyler, Elisi and me!! Why did you come back???”

“I had to leave. Everyone was dying!!” Lynn shouted.

I shrugged. “That’s life! Maybe I should have left. Then what? Why is it always about you!?”

Brad stood more imposing in front of Tyler, which Tyler didn’t seem to mind as he cowered behind his new uncle who spoke quietly to me. “Eric, you’re scaring Tyler. And me.”

“I still say why? You’re broke. You’re a drug addict.” I shook my head. Then I took a deep breath. “You want back in? Fine. You go to rehab. Stick to the program and we’ll talk, but you go now! You can’t stay here.”

Lynn was starting to cry. “Why are you being so mean? What did I do to you?”

“You made dumb choices, that’s what you did to me. I love that little boy. You won’t touch him or his trust fund.” I pointed to Brad. “Do you recognize him?”

She shook her head. “No.”

Lie! “Stop lying!” I shouted. “You do know. Is he the reason you’re back? Are you trying to blackmail or ask him for money?”

“I know you’re marrying him,” Lynn shouted. “I know he’s very rich.”

I nodded. That was the truth. “Fine. I’ll sign over my trust fund. Spend it to your heart’s content. But before I do, you’re going to sign a contract that you will never come back here again. You will never contact me, Elisi or Tyler again. And you will never contact Brad.”

Elisi was crying now. “Is that what you want, Lynn? The money?”

“When will I get the fund?” Lynn asked.

“Brad, I have five million in that trust I will sign over to you. Do we have enough for now?” I asked.

“Sure,” Brad answered.

“How did you get here?” I asked Lynn.

“I walked,” Lynn answered.

“Get in the truck. Brad and I are taking you to a lawyer friend. Or we can wait until tomorrow. There’s a lawyer coming here then. But you can’t stay here.” I said. “The money will be transferred after a contract has been signed. I’ll even pay for your hotel stay. But let’s go.”

Elisi stepped between me and Lynn. “You’re just angry. Think about….”

I shook my head. “No, Elisi, I’m not angry,” I growled. “I’m not mad.” Then I turned to my “sister.” “I am FURIOUS!! I AM LIVID!! She walks in here with a hi, everyone and I’m supposed to react like she’s just returned from the store!? She left us!! She left you, me and more importantly, she left her CHILD!” I walked forward toward my sister. “All our lives we were taught by Elisi, every decision, every action has a reaction. The choices we make will dictate what that reaction will be. Well, this is the reaction. Every day I see what a wonderful human being you created, and I am….I can’t understand why anyone would do that. And to return saying you’re broke!? How!? You had to have blown a million a year!!” I smiled with a grimace. “I’ll give you the money which you’ll blow, too and you can disappear again. Only this time. Don’t come back!!”

Lynn was crying, but I felt nothing but the fury. “I couldn’t deal with it! Dad, Mom, Granddad. They all got sick and died!!”

“News flash,” I growled. “They were my Dad, Mom, and Granddad, too. But it never occurred to me to leave. You could have built a life with your child. But no, it is all about you.” I nearly spat. “It always was. Except for a few similarities physically, I can’t see how we can be even related. You aren’t my sister!!”

Now she cried even more. “I am not like you. I wasn’t born with a talent. I don’t have your strength.”

I blew a breath and turned. “I’m done. I’ll take her to the Fontana Inn. Check her in there. If all she wants is money to buy her a fix. I’ll have nothing to do with her.” I leveled a look at Elisi. “Brad, will you come with us?”

Brad nodded. “Sure.”

We took Elisi’s car because I didn’t want my sister to sit between Brad and me in the front seat. I checked her into the Fontana Inn, making it clear, if she came to the house, I would have her arrested. I gave her some money to buy food or whatever, telling her I didn’t know who could be contacted to buy what she needed, but she probably did. She’d get the money when a contract with clearly defined parameters drawn out. I was so angry, I let Brad drive both ways. He never said a word other than to ask for directions. I really couldn’t deal with Elisi or Tyler for the moment, we opted for a bar where I downed a scotch in one gulp and asked for another. Brad watched, his eyes sad with concern. Then he cleared his throat.

“I’m here for you,” Brad said.

A laugh came up in a short sound, then I was overwhelmed with grief I started crying. We were in a booth so he just hugged me and let me cry. After a few minutes, I calmed down. “I’m sorry you had to see that.”

Brad’s eyebrows rose. “I’m family.” Then he continued logically. “You’re issues are my issues.” He shrugged. “You deal with mine. I’ll deal with yours.” He looked at me. “Have you considered she might be mentally ill?”

“I have.” I nodded. “But the thing is, can it be proven? If it can, I’d have her committed. She’s always been a narcissist. Never once has she considered anyone other than her.”

“You make it seem like you hate her.”

I gave a shrugging nod. “At times, I do.”

“But to be this angry at her, you must still have some feelings for her.”

I nodded. “I’d love to have a sister. But she chose not to be that person.” Taking his hand. “Thanks for your help. I’ll make sure the trust fund pays us back.”

Brad frowned. “You think I’m worried about that? It’s our money.”

I chuckled. He kissed me.

“Well, isn’t that sweet?” A man said walking past our booth. “Kissy, kissy.” Then he frowned. “This ain’t no gay bar.”

I’d never seen him before. He must be here as a tourist or visiting with family for Thanksgiving.

Brad nodded. “This isn’t a gay bar. It’s a bar.”

“Brad, he’s drunk. Let it go.” I asked Brad.

Brad nodded. “Finished?” He asked me which I nodded. “Let’s go back.” And we were getting.

“Your kind makes me sick.” The man slurred angrily. Then he swung at Brad, hitting him in the eye making Brad spin and landed on the table. Did I let that pass? Hell, no. Truth was, I was so anxious about what had happened, I was itching for a fight. I did a spin and hit the man, sending him flying back. Well, his buddies decided to defend their buddy was more important and came to aid. But the bartender stopped that with one blast of his shotgun.

“No fighting.” The bartender demanded. “You boys can take it outside. But I’ve known Eric most of his life. He’ll kick your ass.” He readied another shot. “This is full of rock salt. It won’t kill you, but it’ll sting like a son of a bitch. So, what’ll it be boys?” He looked at me. “I’ll hold ‘em here while you get with your fiancé.” The bartender grinned with a wink. “Good to see you, Eric.”

“Thanks, Burt.” I led Brad out to the car. But I had two drinks. So, he had to drive. He did okay with one eye.

When we came in, naturally Elisi saw Brad’s eye was swelling and turning red. “Brad, what on earth?” She rushed over.

I smiled. “Brad eye got in the way of a man’s fist.”

“Why?” Elisi asked.

“We’re gay,” Brad muttered.

“He was just passing through, a tourist or visiting family,” I explained. “He wasn’t a local.”

Elisi shook her head. “I’ll get some ice.” She hurried in the kitchen and returned with a towel she wrapped ice in. Putting it gently on Brad’s eye and looked apologetic when Brad inhaled quickly as the cold touched his hot injury. She looked at me. “Son, I know your sister is messed up. But is giving her what she wants a good idea? She’ll just keep using.”

I shook my head. “No. It’s a terrible idea. But she has to make her own decisions. If she wants whatever she’s hooked on more than family…” I looked at Elisi. “Why didn’t Tyler see her coming? He saw Brad and others.”

Elisi frowned. “I’m not sure. You are important to Tyler and Brad came and maybe because Brad would become important to you…I don’t know.”

And we finished up some things. I took Tyler to bed. Not really knowing if he understood who his mother was, or why she had come, but his reaction to her told me he knew it wasn’t good.

The ice took the swelling down. “But you’ll have a shiner for Thanksgiving.”

Brad sighed. “Great.”

“I’m sorry.”

Brad grinned. “Oh, you did all this?”

“No.”

“Then don’t be sorry. Not for your sister or that asshole at the bar.” Brad said simply. Then he grinned. “Come here, you.” Arms wrapped around me and brought me down to him. “We need a real honeymoon. I’ll take us whereever you like. Paris, the Caribbean, where ever.”