Sky Blue Pink- Flying Pigs

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of either the author or the publisher.

Sky Blue Pink COLOR BOX An imprint of Torquere Press Publishers PO Box 2545 Round Rock, TX 78680 Copyright 2010 by Syd McGinley Cover illustration by Alessia Brio Published with permission ISBN: 978-1-61040-135-7 www.torquerepress.com All rights reserved, which includes the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form whatsoever except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Law. For information address Torquere Press. Inc. PO Box 2545, Round Rock, TX 78680. First Torquere Press Printing: December 2010 Printed in the USA

3

Sky-Blue Pink: Flying Pigs By Syd McGinley Dedication: For the Fellions and for GLB Flying Pigs takes place two years after Pink: Dolorosa.

4

Charlie twirled and laughed as the black gown swirled around him. "No!" groaned Ben. "You are not wearing that in public." Charlie stuck out his tongue at his man, and swished his robe. "Don't be silly, Ben. Everyone will be in one." "I mean," said Ben grimly, "you are not going to graduation with your leather shorts on under the gown. If you want to walk with your class, then you'll wear your best suit." "I'm a graaaaaaaaaaaad-uuu-ate," sang Charlie, and adjusted his cap. "Oh God," said Ben. "Boy, take it down a notch, okay? Don't make me regret agreeing to a party." "Paaaar-tay!" whispered Charlie, enjoying how his gown flapped around his bare legs. A suit would be so hot under a black robe. He flopped down on the sofa and grinned at Ben. "Are you proud of me, sir? Did you ever think I would be all grown up and shit? I was a bagboy junkie when you met me, and now I'm a college graduate with a car and glasses and a baby!" Ben shrugged. "I don't know, boy. That's a weird list of accomplishments. Glasses? And a car like Betsy is hardly a status symbol." Charlie razzed his man. "Oh sir! You know I mean that I'm facing stuff about myself like not being vain and wearing my glasses and still being me with Betsy covered in queer stickers and Hello Kitty! And you know it's really about me being serious. I finished a degree! And, O.M.G., Ben, I'm a father." Ben sat down next to his boy. "Charlie, I am proud of you. Puzzled by you as always, but very proud." He squeezed Charlie's bare thigh where his robe fell open. "So what next, boy?" Charlie slid his cap off, and grinned. "Blowjob, sir?" "I meant -- oh, well, yeah, but don't stain your robe. I meant, what next for you? Are you staying with LOC?" "I can't talk with my mouthful," garbled Charlie. "It's rude. You know I've been trying to focus on one thing at a time." 5

Ben groaned as his boy's expert mouth worked. "Fair enough. Blow me!" Charlie needed no encouragement. He loved sucking Ben's cock, but he also wanted to avoid questions about his future. He was freaked out by having options. He'd have to make some decisions, but right now -- yum! He hummed to mess with his man's head and to increase his pleasure. "All the single Charlies!" he buzzed to finish Ben off. He sat up licking his lips, careful to make sure nothing had dripped onto his robe. He patted Ben's still plump cock, and grinned. "I'll go and put my suit on!" "Not so fast." Ben grabbed his wrist. "Charlie. I know what you hum when you blow me." "I know you do," said Charlie. "Sit back down. Charlie. I want to talk." Charlie squirmed, and stayed standing. "This is our two-year reunion," said Ben. "As well as your graduation." Charlie shook his head. "Only a year and a half." "Two years since you gave me a Single Ladies blowjob in Betsy at Fell and Dave's partnership ceremony." Well, that was true, but Charlie had spent another six months being wooed by Ben before he moved back in as Ben's boy. He'd lived alone for over a year, and it was only the impending birth of his baby that had finally made him crumble. He loved Ben. He did want to be Ben's, but he had to admit having a sir and your own place was pretty wonderful. But his child wasn't going to have a single father! Cam and Kelly, his baby's mothers, had held his hand through all of it, but they had firmly encouraged him to move back in with Ben. "And," said Ben, "I said back then that I shoulda put a ring on it." Charlie's breathing stopped. He plopped back onto the sofa. "Well, I really shoulda. Charlie? Will you accept me as your husband?" Ben slid to his knees before Charlie and reached into his pocket. Charlie took in a gulp of air. His words had all gone! His sir was kneeling in front of him -- and it had to be said, looking funny in his going-to6

graduation-suit with his damp cock still exposed -- with a ring in his hand. O.M.G! A ring! "Boy? Are you okay? Say something?" Charlie gulped more air. "For me?" he wheezed as he flapped at the ring. "Well, duh," said Ben. "Charlie, don't be too twink about this, please. It's not easy proposing!" "It's an engagement ring!" "Don't make me regret this." "Yes!" hollered Charlie and stuck out his hand for Ben to slide an honestto-God diamond on his hand. "I have to call Owen! And Fell! And..." "Charlie! You're going to see them all in half an hour." "But I'll be walking! I won't be able to tell them." "Put on your suit, boy. Graduate, then show off your ring." "I am gonna die! I have a degree and a ring!" Ben rolled his eyes. "An education and a husband." He stood up and tucked his cock away. "Yeah. Them too!" Charlie giggled. "Ben. I do love you." "Be quiet, boy. I love you. Now kiss me, and get into your suit!" Charlie burst into a chorus of Beyoncé. "Pull me into your arms, Say I'm the one you own..." "Oh God help me," moaned Ben, then kissed Charlie hard and slapped him on the ass. *** Charlie texted Owen frantically as they drove to his graduation. Owen, of course, had his phone on and he and Charlie exchanged a flurry of messages to Ben's exasperation. "Leave the phone in the car, twink. This is meant to be real time." "You are turning into Fell," sniped Charlie. "All old-fashioned and shit." "Old-fashioned enough to marry my arm candy," snapped Ben. 7

Charlie giggled, but shoved his phone into the glove box. He kept Owen's joke about getting an M.R. degree to himself. Once he'd been herded in with the other soon-to-be-alumni, he felt deflated and alone. He milled around with the kids in their robes and concealed silly string and thought how young they all were. He squinted to see his friends and sir -- fiancé! -- but the hall was too big. Impersonal, sighed Charlie, and then scolded himself for raining on his own parade. He gave his name and was marshaled into a line, and he tried to perk up and ignore the cattle call. And his belly did clench as the music started to play. He snorted. He'd called it the "Graduation Song" last week and Fell had lectured him about some dead British dude called Elgar. Charlie put his hand over his heart and sang the national anthem with real feeling, but then he zoned out during the addresses. He'd had enough of being talked at the last few years, and truly, what guidance was some guy in a suit going to give that wasn't surpassed by Fell's training? Finally, the rows of students were heading up for the conferral. Yells and hollers from friends. Charlie felt his gloom start again. He still couldn't see his friends, and he'd wanted to flash his ring at them, or at least let his pink tie be spotted. That was the only sartorial concession Ben had made. Shuffle. Step. Shuffle. His line wasn't going anywhere. He saw a bunch of guys from the accounting program go by, and he frowned. He didn't get this organization. It wasn't by degree or alphabetical. Silly. It offended his business side. He'd have planned this much better. And he was roasting in his suit! Of course, leather shorts would have been squeaking and sticking by now, so at least he -- well, Ben -- had got that right. Just his group left. There were just a dozen of them, and the president was blabbing something about them being special and truly family. What the hell? Had the queer kids been singled out? Ben had vetoed a rainbow tassel, so he'd be pissed if Charlie had accidentally signed up for the Pride Procession! Charlie squinted. Oh shit! He'd been put in the wrong group. That was Dr. Eldritch giving a scroll to her daughter, and now Dr. Beale to his son. Charlie's face burned. He'd missed his moment. He was in with faculty family. "Hey," hissed the kid behind him. "Go -- that's you." 8

Charlie stumbled onto the stage almost blind with humiliation. Who had they mistaken him for? And where was the real kid? Still, he could whisper to the parent on stage and disentangle it later. "I'm sorry," he whispered to the black robe in front of him. "I'm not meant to be here." "Sure you are, twink. Now take your diploma, boy. I can't spank you here." "O.M.G., Hi, Dr. Fell!" squealed Charlie and flung his arms around Fell. "How?" "Please move along," hissed the provost. "We've only five more and we can be done." "I'll see you later," said Fell, making it sound, as usual, like a threat. Charlie let go of him, gave a happy twirl on stage, and hollered, "Wooooh!" He heard an answering "wooooh, Charlie!" cheer from Owen as he scampered from the stage. The crowd applauded and laughed, but Charlie was sure that was because the remaining five students were finally on stage. *** Dr. Fell was still in his robes at the party. "Dave made me keep wearing them," he grumbled. "I'm not allowed to take them off until after photos." "You are henpecked," said Ben, and handed him a beer. "Cockpecked," cackled Charlie, after checking no tender ears were around. "Whipped," conceded Fell. "Come on, Charlie, let's get this over with." He popped his doctoral tam back on and stomped away. Rory, Dexter, and Mama P had taken care of the catering while they were at graduation, and Ben's backyard was resplendent with decorations and refreshments. Dexter had made a cute willow arch that made a perfect photo backdrop. "It's not a firing squad, sir," chirped Charlie. "Photos are fun!" "They are not." 9

"But you have lovely dark blue velvet on your robe," said Charlie, undeterred by Fell's grouchiness. He petted Fell's hood. "Mine is called drab. How dull is that?" "I don't think there's any degree with Hello Kitty robes," said Fell, clearly trying to be a good sport. "Not even in theatre." "Sky-blue pink!" suggested Charlie. "No such color," said Fell, through a clenched-teeth smile as Cindy Rasmussen snapped away with her digital camera. "There is too!" protested Charlie, taking advantage of Fell's well-known fear of his mother-in-law to get a hug photo. "It's like at sunsets when the sky is still blue and the clouds are pink. It's the edges of the two where they smush together in the sun." Fell rolled his eyes. Owen had his phone out and was getting pictures, too. Although Charlie ignored Owen's pose instructions, he did tilt his cap rakishly and aim a kiss at Fell's cheek, making sure his new ring was in the shot. He tried wriggling it to get Fell to notice it. "I'm sky-blue pink," said Owen. "A boy-girl!" "That's enough!" said Fell, and stripped off his gown. "Dave! Put this in the truck." He caught his mother-in-law's gaze. "Please." "Ben!" yelled Charlie. "Come and have an engagement photo!" Silence followed his words, and then hubbub! Fell almost toppled over as his head spun back to stare at Charlie. "Oops," said Charlie. "I forgot he wanted to announce it!" "Charlie!" wailed Owen. "You made me promise to keep the secret, and I did! No fair!" Fell rubbed his neck. "I have whiplash now, boy. Ben, commiserations, buddy." "John!" said Cindy. "Stop that! You'll have another married friend. How nice!" "Yes, ma'am," mumbled Fell, and he bolted. Cindy winked at Charlie. "Congratulations, sweetheart. Ooh, a ring! Ben, you are a romantic! Now squash up, you two, and let me get a shot." 10

Charlie giggled, posed, and clung onto his man as Fell's mother-in-law had Ben kiss him, hold his hand, and even re-enact the proposal. "Not an exact recreation," whispered Ben, eying his own zipper. Charlie snorted, and then spotted a familiar car pulling up. "My Little Bit is here!" He dashed off. Cam and Kelly could barely say hello to their baby's father before he had bundled his Little Bit out of the car seat and was parading across the yard. "Got me a baby, got me a degree, got me a fiancé," crooned Charlie as he jogged back to Ben and Mrs. Rasmussen. Ben shrugged at Cindy. "I know my place!" "Never mind, Ben. Let's have a nice portrait of you on your own before I get some of the two Charlies." Charlie stuck out his tongue and jiggled his child. Cindy took a picture, and winked at Ben. "Perhaps you should consider a child now you're going to be a married man. Charlie shouldn't be the only one passing on his genes." She sighed. "And I know Dave and John won't make me a grandma." Ben gave Mrs. Rasmussen an odd look. "Charlie needs to get out of his good suit before a certain person smashes cake into it. Let Aunt Cindy have little Charlie while you get changed." Charlie made a face, but obeyed. He was cheered by seeing Fell and Dave's horrified expressions across the yard. Mrs. Rasmussen with a baby was the stuff of their nightmares. Charlie scampered upstairs. Ben's bedroom overlooked the backyard, so Charlie could watch as he desuited. He hooted. Fell's step-mother, Mama P, had abandoned her catering position and was barreling toward Cindy. Fell looked like he was crying on Dave's shoulder, but that couldn't be right. Charlie resisted the temptation to fling his suit on the bed, and hung it up. He grabbed a hot pink T-shirt, and wriggled into some jeans. Ben would send him back upstairs if he wore his pink camo shorts. He spared a quick look in the mirror. His hair was a mess, but Little Bit was sure to play with it soon, so there was no point restyling it. He just had to hope his glasses didn't get snatched from his face again. 11

He pelted downstairs. Kelly hadn't seen his ring yet! Much as he wanted his Little Bit in his arms, Fell and Dave were still being tormented, so dashing over to Kelly to flaunt his ring was an easier choice. Kelly was an excellent audience and she oohed and aahed very satisfactorily. Cam, of course, grunted, and went to talk cars with Dave. "He only just asked!" said Charlie. "I wasn't holding out on you, Kell! I was already in my robe for graduation. And he knelt down! It was awesome." Kelly giggled, and pointed at Little Bit grabbing Mama P's tower of red hair. "We better rescue the Fells. John is going to pass out if his womenfolk hold a baby much longer." Charlie snorted. "He hasn't fainted in years." He bit his lip. "Oops. Outted him! Don't squeal on me, but Dr. Fell used to keel over when he was too stressed out." "Really?" said Kelly. "Hah. Now I have some leverage on you, Cha-Cha." "Oh, pooh," said Charlie. "You wouldn't! Here, let me take my Little Bit, and you rescue John from Dave and Cam. He has his Luddite face on. I bet they're talking about conversion vans again." Kelly grinned and set off to save Dr. Fell from his twin torments of babies and machinery. Charlie held his child while Cindy disentangled sticky little fingers from Mama P's intricately engineered hair. "Well, Charlie! Congratulations, sweetie," said Mama P, wincing as her hair and Little Bit continued to stay entwined. "What are your plans? Will you keep on with LOC? Rory and I depend on your services, you know. And we are doing your wedding! Oh, Cindy, thank you! I thought I'd have a baby hair ornament all day." "Of course you are! Rory does the best wedding cakes in town and your flowers are fab!" He gave Little Bit a jiggle and exclaimed, "Uh-oh, baby needs..." He scurried off leaving the need vague. Of course people were going to ask him his plans -- it was his graduation party. But he had no clue, and he felt stupid saying he didn't know. He plopped down on a picnic blanket in the corner of the yard. Little Charlie wriggled free and staggered around on the blanket babbling.

12

Kelly returned, towing a shell-shocked Fell. "Come on, John. Bite the bullet, and hang with the two Charlies for a bit. You know you'll be pestered all afternoon to do it." "Yeah, man up, Dr. Fell," said Charlie, emboldened by the safe space. Fell's posture conveyed the essence of threatening and threatened as he sat down and regarded Little Bit as if his very existence were at risk. Kelly sat down, too, and beamed at her toddler. "Come and say hi to Uncle John!" Charlie convulsed with mirth. "Oh, sir," he whispered. "You'd have killed me if I'd said that!" "I may yet," hissed Dr. Fell. "You'll be Kelly's whipping boy." "I think," said Charlie watching Little Bit advance on Dr. Fell, "that it'll be well worth it." "Good afternoon, Miss Charlotte," said Fell as she lurched into him. "How are you?" "Banana!" said little Charlie. "Indeed," said Fell, despite a chubby finger poking his ear. Charlie felt his eyes almost pop as big bad Fell proceeded to have a very serious discussion with Little Bit about the merits of bananas. Charlie's daughter sat down abruptly, and babbled back at Fell. "My mother mashed them," said Fell. "In a bowl with honey and cream." "Nom," added Charlie as his self-censored contribution to the conversation. His "I swallow them whole" would have been wildly inappropriate and Kelly would have swatted him. "Cow," said Little Bit. Charlie scooted closer to Kelly to whisper about Fell in relative safety. "Flying pigs," he hissed. "Fell and a baby!" "Fell and a girl!" replied Kelly. "He's having, like, a seminar on nanas with her," chortled Charlie. "He might give her homework." 13

Dr. Fell gave them the stink eye over Little Bit's head. "I can hear you. And right now Miss Charlotte is giving me the most intelligent conversation of the day." "Doggie?" asked Little Charlie. "The dogs are at the cabin. Ghia and Fargo. They're too big and happy for parties." "Huh," said Charlotte. "She likes him," said Kelly. "He doesn't fuss at her. Cindy and Mrs. Fell get her over-excited." "He has a nice voice. When he's not cross, he's very calmy." "Calming," said Fell, sounding far from it. "Kelly, I believe I've done my duty, and Miss Charlotte has had enough of my company." He stood up. "Charlie, come and get some food with me. You'll get the child all worked up again." Charlie scowled, but obeyed since Kelly was nodding. "Sorry, sir," he mumbled as he trotted along. "Party!" "I know, boy. You and your Little Bit are both defenseless and silly. A baby is just like a boy." "Not exactly like," amended Charlie, and then frowned. "Are you saying I'm a baby?" "No, boy. I'm not belittling you. I'm just saying you both thrive with structure and comfort." "Oh," said Charlie. "Hey! Dr. Fell! You're, like, a twink-whisperer!" "Don't make me regret bestowing your degree." Charlie worked on putting together a hot dog for Fell, and one for himself. "It was an awesome surprise! How did you swing that, sir? I mean, you're not faculty and we're not related." "I thought a graduate such as you would stop using awesome," grumbled Fell. "Ben pulled some strings to get me counted as emeritus faculty since I used to teach there." 14

Charlie enthusiastically squirted mustard on Fell's wiener. "Some strings! You were there one term and they told you not to come back." Fell snorted. "Tactful as ever, boy. Despite that, you are family." Charlie splatted too much mustard on his own dog and gawped as Fell moved down to the desserts. Holy cow! Fell counted him as family! He and Fell had been up late to the food table, and the dessert area was a bottleneck. Owen was serving, and Charlie sighed. Most of the time Owen was his friend, but when he wasn't... "No cake?" said Cindy from behind Charlie. "Huh," said Charlie. "That's weird since Rory's in charge of the food." "Cake later!" said Owen. "I think it's for when Ben had planned his announcement." He gave Charlie an angry squint. There was nothing like Owen's grudge when he'd had some choice gossip ruined. "What do you want, John?" Charlie smothered a snort. Since Pete and Owen didn't have a sir-boy relationship, Owen rather too often made a point of disrespecting Dr. Fell which, clarified Charlie to himself, was entirely different from sassing him to provoke a spanking. Or from affection, he mused as he released the snort at Owen's rapidly fading pert expression. Fell must be doing his just looking put down. "Ice cream," Dr. Fell said at last, and Owen fumbled for the scoop. Charlie sniggered and saw a flash of mean on Owen's face. "Vanilla? I hear that's what you're all about these days." "Well, it is premium vanilla," said Cindy with a real edge to her voice. Charlie didn't dare giggle. Dave's mom was nice, but no-one messed with her. Fell simply said, "Two scoops then, Owen." "I'll wait for cake," said Charlie. "Ben said I could have one dessert since it is my party." "I expect he'll count cake and ice cream as one if you get them together, sweetie," said Cindy. Dr. Fell didn't contradict her, and Charlie beamed as he set off to circulate. He wanted to go back to Little Bit, but he felt brave enough now to face all 15

the questions about his future. He still didn't know what he was going to do, but he was ready to make laughing replies now about choices and options. And it was a great party! A nice, normal, backyard, happy, family party. Charlie glowed. Dave's dad had arrived and was drinking a beer with his son and Cam, while Cindy and Fell had their heads together about something. Ben was lolling around on the picnic cloth with Kelly and Little Bit, and Mama P was keeping Owen busy along with Rory and Dexter. Gregorio and Miles, their sirs, were keeping a casual eye on their boys. Pete, Owen's boyfriend, had begged off. Charlie worried Greg and Miles would feel left out of such a family gathering, so he sat down on the back porch with them. Although they were both sirs, Charlie was able to relax with them. Sometimes, he thought with a frown, more than he could with Owen. Greg had been his boss for a bit at the tax preparation service and they still worked together on the foundation. He didn't know Miles well, although the sir was his dentist, but Dexter adored him which was sufficient endorsement. Of course, Miles and Greg were asking about his plans, and it felt easier to tell two sirs that he was unsure and a bit lost than it did to say so to his friends. Charlie gave Greg a cheeky little smile. "But I know I don't want to take the CPA exam! Sorry, Greg. I like knowing all the tax stuff, but it's not me. And I've had enough of exams." Greg chuckled. "You were a good tax preparer, boy, and your foundation work has been excellent, but there's nothing wrong with just taking LOC up a notch. Rory'll be really upset if he loses your services." "Yeah, Mama P said." Charlie sighed. "I just feel like I should do something more now I have a degree." "I'll talk to Fell and Ben about an idea I have for you." "Eep," said Charlie. "Fell as well?" Miles laughed. "Don't scare him, Greg. Not on his special day! Charlie, call my office. Your graduation present is top of the line teeth whitening. Now, I'd better get Dexter home. He's going to lose it around Mama P soon. She gets him all intense about botanical something or others." "Before the cake?" gasped Charlie, imagining Dexter's horror at missing out. "Oh, and thank you! Pearly-whites!" Miles laughed. "Okay, let's go and hustle along the cake serving then." 16

Charlie rounded everyone up, and bounced on his toes in anticipation. Rory's cakes were miraculous. "Holy crap!" said Greg from behind him. "Was my boy on acid?" Charlie blinked at what Rory was proudly carrying out. Looking as if they were climbing a mountainside of multi-tiered cake were a unicorn, a Harley, a truck, a groom, Hello Kitty, and a figure in ye olde tights, while on the peak teetered a graduation cap, rainbows galore, a silver XXX, and sparkler fireworks. "It's the tower of effing Babel and Noah's ark," said Fell. "With a touch of Sodom..." he added to just Charlie and Ben. Ben ruffled Rory's hair. "A proper Charlie cake! Perfect! Well done, Rory. Friends and family, this is a graduation, anniversary, double-birthday, and engagement cake. This June has Charlie's graduation!" "Whoo!" yelled Charlie. "...John and Dave's second anniversary, Charlie's thirtieth birthday, John's mumble birthday, and, just today, Charlie accepted my marriage proposal." "It's rainbow marble cake under the frosting," said Rory. "I hope everyone is okay with that." "How could we not be?" said Ben. "Charlie, come and slice for your guests." "Happy birthday to you..." started Mama P, and, to Charlie's delight and horror, he and Dr. Fell were serenaded together. Dr. Fell looked utterly stricken, and Charlie chortled. "Wait until the retreat, boy. I'll thrash your ass," hissed Fell, so only Ben and Charlie could hear. Charlie gave Ben a quick look, and nodded enthusiastically. "...or maybe I'll have Dave do it for me," added Fell. "Pictures," yelled Cindy. "Dave, get in there with them." "Make sure the sun's right, Charlie. The light's not kind to thirty-year olds," sniped Owen. 17

"I can handle a few wrinkles," said Charlie, smothering a hurt gasp. "I have Little Bit, so I'm immortal!" Dave gave him an amiable hip bump as they jostled around, obeying Mrs. Rasmussen. "Thirty, huh," he said. "I thought it was XXX-rating!" "Thought you'd like the celebrations all at once," said Ben to Dr. Fell as they squished up behind the cake in response to Cindy's orders. "I know you can't stand the fuss, but there was no way you were escaping a birthday and anniversary." "In for a penny," grouched Fell. "And I guess I'm busted since I joined in twink's graduation surprise." "How did you do that?" asked Charlie. "There's now a Benjamin and Charles Erikson Scholarship at the university," said Ben. "A small, uh, consideration for John to be counted as emeritus faculty for the day and as your relative. I was going to endow one anyway as your graduation present, but the extra leverage didn't hurt." "Charles Erikson! Doesn't that sound perfect?" Charlie felt his sunny mood return after Owen's wrinkle quip. "Sounds presumptuous," snarked Owen. "He only proposed today." "I've about had it with you, Owen," snapped Cindy. "It's Charlie's special day and you've been a spoiled brat to him all day. And John and Ben have been far too considerate of mixed company to give you the rebukes you deserve." She glared. "Yes, I know you all discipline each other's boys." "Mom!" wailed Dave. "Oh for God's sake, Dave, we have cable. And I worked the E.R. long enough to see plenty." Mama P cackled. "Oh, Cindy, remember that young man who--" "Mixed company!" wheezed Dr. Fell, pointing at Kelly, Cam, and Little Charlie. Dave's father was urgently finding another beer in the cooler. "Banana," said Little Charlie as her moms busily attended to the cake plates and forks.

18

Owen bit his suspiciously glossy lip and visibly quivered on the edge of a flounce. "I'm not a boy..." he began, and then stopped. "Sorry, Mrs. Rasmussen. Sorry, Charlie." Charlie picked the XXX and the unicorn off the cake, and cut a slice. "Have some cake, Owen." Ben folded his arms. "Sorry, Mr. Erikson," mumbled Owen and took the offered cake. "I think John and I will need to have a meeting with Pete." Owen opened his mouth, and then prudently popped cake in it instead of bitching himself deeper into a hole. Charlie removed more ornaments and kept slicing. He made sure Dr. Fell got a good pink swirl in his cake, and Ben a big chunk of chocolate. "And ice cream on the side for yourself," reminded Cindy. "Then come and sit on the blanket while the other boys tidy up the party. That means you work too, Owen." Charlie sat down. He had cake and ice-cream. Bliss! Little Bit had her own bowl of smushed up sweetness and was patting her hands in it. "Cow!" "Cake, punkin," corrected Charlie, ridiculously happy to be the one putting anyone right. "Charles in charge!" duetted Cam and Kelly just, thought Charlie, as if they had done it before. Fell and Dave hovered, no doubt trying to decide if sitting next to Little Bit themselves was worse than letting Mama P and Cindy dote on her unobstructed. "Give up, son, and just sit down," said Rass. "If your mom is going to nag you about grandchildren, there's no obstacle you can imagine that'll protect you." Cindy gave her husband a friendly swat. "Relax, John, Dave, it's okay. Being Aunt Cindy is enough. For now." She narrowed her eyes a little at Kelly. "Are you stopping at one, Kelly? Or Cam?" 19

"Not me!" snorted Cam. "I already had an IED take my leg; I'm not having a kid explode out of me." " Cam!" said Kelly. "Honestly! It's not an explosion. Cindy, we are planning another. Don't panic, Fell-Rasmussens, I'm already negotiating with a father." Charlie put his dish down. Kelly hadn't said anything to him. Why didn't they want him again? His Little Bit was perfect! "'Scuse me," he muttered. He thought he might puke up his ice-cream and cake. He must look ill, he realized, because Ben set off after him, and caught up with him by the kitchen door. "Charlie -- stop -- what's wrong?" "Too much sugar. I feel ooshy." "Bullshit. I'll beat you for that lie later on," growled Ben making Charlie's toes curl, even through his misery. "What's the matter?" "I'm not good enough." "Charles Erikson! You idiot. Kelly didn't want to say anything because I hadn't talked to you yet. Cam and Kelly want me to be the next father. So we -- you and I -- would have children together." "I am gonna puke," said Charlie, dashing inside as sugar and emotions churned around. "Meant to be Kelly doing that," said Ben. "Don't lock the door, boy. I want to check on you." Charlie knelt, and hung his head dizzily over the toilet. Ben used this john as his bad boy kennel and the space felt safe. Ben could be a father! Their children would be related. "Whoa!" said Charlie softly, and sat back on his heels. Ben pushed open the door and stood behind him. Charlie leaned back so his head rested on his man's thighs. "Well, boy, shall I tell Kelly and Cam 'yes'?" "Do you want this, sir?" 20

"Yes, boy. I do. I'm already committed to them through you, so I may as well go whole hog." Charlie twisted round on his knees and hugged Ben's thighs hard. "Did you ever think, Ben, that we could be so happy?" "Well, I won't lie, boy, but this has to be the best boy-kneeling-in-abathroom experience I've ever had." Charlie clung on and buried his face. "Let go, sweetheart, we need to go back out." He held out his hand, and helped Charlie to his feet. "Daddies!" said Charlie, and trotted out with his man. Kelly raised her eyebrows as they sat back down, and Ben nodded. Charlie was too absorbed with his Little Bit to really notice. "We have a new word," said Cam. "Fell taught it to her." "The slack-jawed look doesn't suit you, Cha-Cha," said Kelly. "You know John is a good teacher. Watch. This is super-cute." Cam set Little Bit toddling towards Ben. "Who's that?" asked Fell. "Who's that, Miss Charlotte?" "Arroz!" bellowed Little Bit, collapsing onto Ben's lap. Charlie cackled. "That could only be your joke, Dr. Fell. It's really, really bad!" Ben scooped her up and snuggled her. "Did they set you up as a punch line, Missy? Never mind. I'm ready to trade being Uncle Ben for Papa Arroz." *** Charlie squirmed as he steered his beloved Betsy up the track to Dr. Fell's cabin. Ben had been enthusiastic with his belt throughout the last week, and Charlie's ass was already covered in bruises even before the retreat began. He was coming out early to help Fell and Dave get organized with parking and tent spots. Even Fell agreed Charlie was a good party planner, but he'd also said helping did not absolve Charlie from any of his crimes. Charlie had earned a thrashing from Fell, and Ben had agreed to it. There was nothing like having your being be re-centered by Dr. Fell. Unless... 21

Charlie shifted into second to bounce over some rough ground... unless he was serious that Dave would do it. That would be so mean. He parked near Fell's garage. He wasn't going to make the mistake of getting parked in as he had at Fell's wedding -- although that had worked out to his advantage! Dave ambled out of the garage, looking super-sexy in his low-slung jeans, beat-up chucks, and a smear of grease across his shirtless pecs. "Hey, twink. I'm just finishing up with maintaining John's bike. You can go on in. John's down by the creek walking the dogs and having a last bit of solitude." Charlie blinked. Dave was so hot! As hot as Fell. Perhaps being beaten by him... "Charlie? You okay?" "Uh-huh," managed Charlie, tearing his eyes away from Dave's happy trail. "I'll, um, wait inside." Dave shook his head and turned away. Charlie hurried up the steps. Holy goldfish! He had a hard-on for Dr. Fell's boy. What would happen if Fell did have Dave beat him? Ben liked sharing Charlie around at parties, but Dave and Fell were monogamous -- against Fell's preferences, remembered Charlie. He sat down at Fell's kitchen table and stared at the guest list as he willed his cock to subside. How on earth did Fell plan on getting over twenty people parked and sheltered? Charlie scratched his head. They'd done it a few years ago, but that had been a wilder time. He didn't want to sleep in a tent again, for sure. Would it be rude to snag a bedroom for him and Ben? "You and Ben get the workroom," said Fell as he came in the backdoor, "so long as you don't mind having to pass through my room to get there." "The dungeon! Whoo-yeah!" "It is not a dungeon," said Fell. "Don't piss me off already, boy. There's an air mattress in there, and it's Ben's discretion whether you get to sleep on it or the equipment." "Whoo," repeated Charlie. "Thanks, Dr. Fell. I thought Dr. Tanaka should get a room since he's a real guest, and Dr. Rønne too since he's, uh, senior." 22

Fell grimaced. "Don't say that to him, twink." "He is the, like, alpha!" dredged up Charlie. "Huh. Yeah. I guess." Charlie thought Dr. Fell looked uncomfortable discussing Dr. Rønne. "Did I make a fox's paw, Dr. Fell?" "A what? Oh, jeez, twink. Faux pas. No, no, you didn't. But, you're right about the rooms, boy. Pol gets my old bedroom, and Dr. Tanaka can have the sleeping loft. Set up the futon in my study, too. Mike's bringing an old friend, Martin." Dr. Fell rubbed his forehead. "How do I know so many people? I can't keep all these names straight." He shoved the list back to Charlie. "Let Brin have a spot on the porch so Luke can be in the shade. Everyone else gets a tent or porch space. Don't put anyone on the sofa. I want the living area kept for socializing. You figure out the parking, will you? Just don't let anyone run over my herbs this year." Charlie giggled. "No, sir. Sorry about that, sir." The next few hours were a whirl of getting organized, and Charlie was in his element. He had a sign at the track entrance for new visitors, parking spaces marked with little flags, the fire pit marked off, food tables, a peaceful area for the tents, and enough space left for a softball game. And, of course, a place for any equipment to be set up. He called Luke, Rory, and Dexter to check the food and drink order, and Laurie, Colby, and Kyle to make sure they would have lube, condoms, sunscreen, and some first aid supplies. Owen wasn't actually a boy, so Charlie let him just bring his own sweet self. Charlie wasn't even sure if he wanted Owen there. Owen would just snark or freak out like he had at the first retreat. In fact, thought Charlie, why was he invited? Charlie scowled as he helped Dave carry some lawn chairs. "What's wrong, Charlie?" "Owen," snapped Charlie. "Pete should have dropped out of the retreat! It's wrong to bring someone who won't take part. Owen made his choice." Dave grinned. "I wouldn't worry about Owen. Just look out for your own ass! I heard Mike has some new whips for everyone to sample and Dr. Tanaka is looking for a shibari model." 23

"And watch out for you?" asked Charlie. "Perhaps! John wants me to say he and I can, uh, 'play' with others this weekend -- I'm still making up my mind." "Do you have to be a boy if you play?" Dave set the chairs down, and dusted his palms off. "That, Charlie, is a very good question. I think I'll go ask John." "Idiot," muttered Charlie to himself as he rearranged the chairs, but he wasn't sure who he meant. Ben arrived a little later with a case of Scotch for the week, some cigars, and a box of his and Charlie's favorite toys. He grunted as Charlie flung his arms around Ben for a hug. "Jeez, Charlie, it's only been a few hours since I saw you." "Missed you! Oh! Did you make your deposit with Kelly in time?" "Ew, Charlie. What a way of describing it. And yes, I dropped off the, uh..." "See!" said Charlie. "It's hard to phrase. I always used their spare room, and Cam would ask me through the door if the payload had deployed." "Thanks for helping me," said Ben as he heaved the case of Scotch up the steps. "I don't think I could do it without you as my fluffer." "Co-parents all the way," said Charlie. "And co-hosts," said Dr. Fell, stepping out on to the porch to take the Scotch. "If you wouldn't mind, Ben, I'd like you and Charlie officially to be my and Dave's partners in running this week." "Whoo!" said Charlie, wriggling his eyebrows. "Whoo-yeah," said Dave. "Charlie, John and I are not being faithful this week! And, I get to choose who I consent to bottom for... or who I top." He wriggled his eyebrows back at Charlie salaciously. "Unfaithful's not the word," grouched Fell over Charlie's giggles. "And you're still my boy, boy!" Charlie felt a warm glow as he looked back and forth from Ben to Fell and Dave. This was going to be the best week! *** 24

"This is going to be an awful week," bitched Owen as he picked his way across the grass from where he'd parked his Bug. "I don't know why Pete wanted to spend the week here. It's not civilized. He finally takes some time off, and do we go somewhere nice? No!" Charlie seethed. He'd been about to show Owen a prime spot on the porch for him and Pete to stake out, but he veered toward a scrubby part of grass on the edge of the mowed area. It was perfectly good -- he wouldn't put a sir on bad ground. "Here. Let me know if you need help pitching your tent." "Tent!" wailed Owen. "Oh, Charlie! No!" Charlie shrugged. "Mr. Cole said he was bringing a tent. I think he wants you two to have more privacy than the porch." "But Fell has a cabin!" "It's full," said Charlie, and hurried back to direct another car. He stole a peek over his shoulder. Owen was sitting on his suitcase looking woebegone. Charlie hardened his heart. Owen would just have to fit in. The in-town attendees were arriving fast now, and Charlie was kept busy. Every so often, he'd scurry past Owen forlornly waiting for Pete in their designated spot. He looked more like the nervous, puke-if-he-wasstressed Owen of a few years ago, and Charlie sighed. He didn't want Owen to be miserable, but the onus was on Owen to behave. Charlie waved Mike's huge Dodge Ram into an end spot, and then hugged Mike's boy, Chris, hard as he slid out of the cab. "Hi! Oh, Chris, look!" Charlie shoved his ring under Chris' nose, and beamed. Chris obligingly clucked over it, and showed his own steel wedding ring. "Over three years of wedded bliss," growled Mike from behind them, "which may be in danger if you don't shift your heiney and unload the truck, boy. Martin, I'll walk you up to meet Fell once we've made sure the boys are under control." Chris just giggled. "He's even grouchier now we're legal!" He hurried to the tailgate to avoid a swat from his sir's bearish paw, and handed Charlie a box. "Can you put these inside, twink? They're the party favors! No peeking." 25

"Ooh! What are they? Oh, I know! Chinese cock traps!" "Just carry them, silly boy," rumbled Mike. "Put them in Fell's room." Charlie couldn't resist a shake or two as he took the box to Dr. Fell's bedroom. Clearly Mike had done some leatherwork, but he could glean no further clues from the shifting weight and sounds. He didn't dare pick at the tape. It was far too well sealed for an "accidental" peek. He passed Fell on his way in. "Mike and Chris are here, Dr. Fell! And their friend, Martin." "Oh man," muttered Fell. "That means Pol is right behind him. They were convoying." Charlie frowned. "We've all met Pol, sir, when he came for Rinnie. He can't have been too disappointed in us." Fell gave a bark-laugh. "No, you're right, boy. What's that box?" "Party favors from Mike. He said to stash them in your room." Fell's face took on an unholy grin and Charlie squirmed. Fell smiling was rarely good news. "Worse than Christmas, eh boy?" said Fell, and sent Charlie on his way with a friendly butt swat. Charlie emerged from the cabin just in time to see a gleaming black Lexus nose its way into the parking area. It chose its own spot, and Charlie decided not to redirect it to fit his plan. He could see Tommy and Rinnie in the backseat obediently waiting for permission to join the other boys. Charlie craned to get a first glimpse of Tommy's beloved and stern Dr. Tanaka. Pol got out of the passenger seat, and stretched. He looked relaxed and suspiciously merry thought Charlie, but, ooh, Dr. Tanaka did not look merry! Charlie felt his balls tighten just seeing Tommy's owner's controlled movements as he snapped his fingers for his boy. Tommy's braid swung as he slid out and popped the trunk. He looked so serene. Charlie checked over his appearance -- being scruffy or disheveled in front of such a meticulous sir would be embarrassing -- and tried to be sedate as he crossed to his old friends. Part way he gave up, and squealed, "Tommy! Rinnie!" and barreled at them. 26

"This is Ghia? Fargo?" said Dr. Tanaka. Rinnie chortled. "Funny!" "Sensei!" said Tommy, smothered by Charlie's hug. "This is Charlie!" "Ah! At last, the famous twink in person." Tommy squeezed Charlie, and turned his friend around to face his owner as he let go. "Um, konnichiwa, Dr. Tanaka!" said Charlie, sketching a bow. "Heh," said Dr. Tanaka, and allowed the three boys to show him into the cabin. There was a flurry of doctor this and doctor that as Rønne, Tanaka and Fell introduced themselves, and Charlie's head spun. "Are all PhDs tops?" he blurted. "Do you have to be that bossy to get one?" "Charlie!" hissed Ben. "Disciplined, not bossy." Pol's eyes crinkled. "Oh, boys can be disciplined, too. Boy, that's an unwarranted extrapolation to make. I know some bottoms with doctorates. Dr. Jacobson is a demographer and is owned by his partner. And, if Rinnie keeps going as well as he is, he'll be Dr. Rinaldo Pachacútec." He gave his boy a proud look. "And there's Nestor in Classics," added Dr. Tanaka. "Oh," said Charlie. "Ooh, Ben, perhaps I could be Dr. Erikson!" "No!" said Ben and Fell in unison. "Smart enough," mumbled Charlie, feeling crushed. "We have a plan for you, sweetie," said Ben. "We'll have a meeting about it this week. Now, why don't you show Tommy and Rinnie where they can unpack?" *** By the time the last arrivals were settled and food was set out, Charlie was already tired. Greg and Tony had had pizzas special-delivered from their co-owned store as a first night easy dinner. Although Charlie wasn't on kitchen duty -- despite last year's birthday present of cooking lessons, Dr. 27

Fell had still scratched Charlie's name off the meal prep list -- he was relieved that food was one less logistical issue for the first evening. And besides, Greg and Tony had included Charlie's favorite feta and artichoke pie -- nom! He tried not to make a pig of himself, but he snagged a third slice and headed for the back porch to be greedy in private. Ghia and Fargo flopped by his feet, and wuffed. "I know, girls," said Charlie. "So many people." He held out his olive-oily fingers for them to lick. "That's my line," said Fell, sitting next to him on the steps. "Oh! Hi, Dr. Fell. Are you peopled out already?" "Almost." "It's a retreat for them, sir, not you!" "Too true." Charlie giggled. "You're just freaked out about how many people you love." "Twink, you've already earned a beating, so back off." "And who love you," added Charlie, blithely snuggling against Dr. Fell's shoulder. "You will be black and blue, boy." "Goodie." Charlie petted Ghia's head, then squeezed Dr. Fell's knee. "Sir? Are you okay? You seem a bit, uh, different." Fell was quiet. To Charlie's surprise, he didn't get grumpy or deny anything. He just stroked Fargo a moment. "Aw, twink, there's nothing wrong. I'm just doing that 'Fell is miserable if nothing's wrong' thing you claim I do." "Got the blues," said Charlie. "I hate those 'there's nothing wrong' days." Fell nodded. "And I feel like a rotten shit for being down. My life is good, but..." He shrugged. "Fuck, twink, it's just June. It always gets me -- my birthday and Rob's deathday." "And you feel guilty being happy with Dave," suggested Charlie. "And things have changed. Good change is hard." 28

"Got that right," snorted Fell. "I go looking for reasons to feel crappy." "Such as hanging with me?" "Idiot," said Fell, and squeezed Charlie's arm. "Nah, fretting over being so settled. I've been domesticated! And my dad..." "Your dad! You're not gonna, like, reconcile with him, are you?" "Fuck, no! I'm just pity partying, Charlie. He's decided to be grandpa to my cousin's bastard. He's prouder of Jack's kid than he ever was of me. Pictures on the fridge and everything." Fell rubbed his forehead. "Lame of me, I know, but Mama P saying how dad goes to the kid's football games... shit." Charlie snuck an arm around Fell. "Hey, sir, you're never too old to be an orphan. And that's what you are!" "Melodrama much, Charlie?' said Fell wryly. "I'm not Oliver Twist!" Charlie butted his head against Fell's shoulder. "Parents. Even when they don't mean it, they still hurt you." "What did yours do now? I thought you were back in their good graces. All clean and educated and with a fancy lawyer for a partner!" "That's just it. They won't come to my wedding." Charlie went pink. "Inviting them opened up all their 'phobey stuff again. They can 'accept' me, but they won't celebrate with me. I'm cramming it down their throats." He sniff-giggled. "Such a stupid phrase." "Makes me think Freud could have a point," consoled Fell. "I asked dad to give me away," whispered Charlie. "I think that was what did it! Well, that and traveling to Canada! Foreign!" Fell snorted. "Never mind, boy. You'll have your friends at your wedding." "Dr. Fell? You know you said I was, like, family?" "Uh-oh," said Fell. "Would you give me away?" Charlie braced himself for a Fellish burst of irritation, but none came. Fell actually grinned. "Twink, I'd be delighted to give you away." 29

Charlie caught the double meaning and elbowed Fell even as he hugged Fell. "Thanks." He paused. "John." "You're welcome, Charlie. But I'm still thrashing you." "Yay!" "Back to the throng," said Fell, standing up and dusting off his jeans. "Stay, girls!" Ghia and Fargo flopped back down. *** Charlie yawned. He was so tired! Day three of the retreat and he was worked off his ass. Co-host apparently meant even more at Fell's beck and call than usual. To be fair, Ben and Dave were also busy most of the time. And it was fun! Owen had painted Dr. Fell's toenails pink while Fell napped on the porch swing. No one had ratted Owen out -- yet -- although he was the obvious prime suspect and, not coincidentally, the only person with polish remover. Tommy had pinned tweed elbow patches onto Dr. Fell's leather bike jacket, but Fell had guffawed over them. The boys had recreated Eakin's famous swimming hole painting for Simon to photograph. They'd even wrangled Ghia into playing in the creek and Luke had been allowed to pose nude in the sun to make sure they had the dog and the red-haired boy, too. Simon promised everyone would get copies. Later on, Rinnie and Tommy had won the re-match of the boys' special version of a three-legged race, and Rory had been spanked for saying "so, they really do shit in the woods," when he saw Mike coming out of the trail. Watching Dr. Tanaka's shibari -- oops, he meant kinbaku -- demonstration on Tommy and Rinnie last night had been riveting. Tommy and Rinnie's smooth brown skins webbed with white linen ropes and illuminated by firelight had been arousing, and, well, Ben and Charlie hadn't been the only ones to get busy in the shadows. He continued his circuit of the cabin's grounds picking up trash and putting things to rights. The visitors were all orderly people, but so many people in one place inevitably created some mess. He passed Owen and Pete's tent, and smirked. Mr. Cole was happy to camp out, and enjoyed roughing it after so much office work. Owen was a little cowed now his partner was here, but still whiny. He hadn't appreciated anything yet, and Charlie wondered why Pete put up with him. Sure, Owen was cute -- pretty, in fact -- and smart, and he was good fun when he wasn't being a bitch, but Pete was starting to look harried by his lover's discontent. Ben and Fell were 30

still planning on cornering Pete, and Charlie thought it couldn't happen soon enough. Owen had tried yesterday to claim he should be allowed to use the hot showers inside the cabin instead of washing in the creek or at the hose pipe like all the other boys. Charlie had patiently said Fell wasn't being mean, but there was no way the cabin could handle twenty-five hot showers a day, and anyway, Fell and Ben were swimming instead of showering, the creek was fun, and it was over eighty-five degrees! No one was styling their hair, Luke had added, it was a retreat. Owen had huffed and kicked open his bags revealing that a good third of his luggage was beauty products. Luggage! giggled Charlie as he picked up a condom wrapper. Luckily, its used contents were nowhere to be seen. Owen was so silly bringing a suitcase and a vanity case to a camp out! Owen crawled out of the tent, and scowled. "You are too cheerful, Charlie. And I'm bored!" "Well, crap," said Charlie. "We can't have that! What kinda host would I be? Come on!" "There's no need to be sarcastic," snapped Owen, but he followed Charlie anyway. Charlie tossed his garbage bag into the trash area, and led Owen inside. "Here you are! Breakfast dishes! Rinnie cooked, so I know he'll be glad of a cleanup crew!" Owen hissed, flashed his long, pink nails, and flounced out. Charlie shrugged, and winked at Rinnie. "I was going to let him recharge his iPod while he worked." Rinnie scooped all his empty egg shells and potato peelings into a bucket for Fell's compost heap. "Owen is un-owned. Sounds like his name! That's his problem." Charlie nodded as he set about doing the dishes for Rinnie. His manicure wasn't too precious for work. Poor Owen. It was miserable not being owned. Rinnie moved over to dry the dishes. "Tonight is the men's meeting. They plan to talk to Mr. Cole about Owen. And about you." 31

"Me?" "They have plans," said Rinnie cheerfully. "And about me. I have to go home one day." Charlie scrubbed at some dried egg. It made him even madder at Owen, knowing how easy his life was compared to Rinnie and Pol's impending immigration woes. Rinnie was doing a master's degree now that rolled into a doctoral program if he passed the classes, but what would happen when he was no longer eligible for a student visa? Tommy had told Charlie that Rinnie also felt obliged to go home and work in his community. He was already torn about extending his stay with graduate work. Rinnie and Pol were both good-humored and stoic about the situation, but Charlie knew it had to be stressful. As he worked, Charlie reviewed his day's goals. He wanted to get laid in the worst way! He'd given a bunch of blowjobs since the retreat began, including nearly choking on the well-hung Martin, but he was horny for a fuck. Handsome Dr. Tanaka was off-limits apparently, but perhaps Pol would oblige. And if Dave were the one to beat him, perhaps Charlie could bottom for Fell's boy. Charlie pulled the plug on the water, and giggled. One way or another he would have some fun today! "Come and play soccer with me," said Rinnie. "I want to run around!" "In shorts!" said Charlie. "Let me get my pink camo ones!" A few minutes later, Rinnie and Charlie were kicking a ball around, and waving at the other boys to join them. Luke begged permission to play, and, since he was slathered in sunscreen and it was a little overcast, Brin agreed. "Boys five a side," cheered Rinnie. "Me, Charlie, Tommy, Dave, and Luke against Laurie, Rory, Colby, Dexter, and Kyle. Chris, will you be referee? Otherwise we will squabble!" "What about me?" Owen directed his glossy pout at Rinnie and Charlie. "Oh," said Rinnie, juggling the ball on his knees for a moment. "I thought you wouldn't want to play." He looked genuinely embarrassed, and then burst out with "Pink nails! Owen! You don't really want to play, do you?" "He's not a boy," snapped Laurie, grabbing the ball and dribbling away with it. "He can be a cheerleader," he called over his shoulder. 32

"Hey!" said Charlie. "Don't be mean. He is a boy, I mean he's not a boy, but he... oh never mind." Owen had stamped off part way through Charlie's speech. "Let's play!" called Kyle. "Laurie, you be our goalie!" They piled discarded shirts to be goal markers, and started running and kicking. After one attempt to call Colby to task for a sliding tackle, Chris caught on that being referee was a matter of stopping spats and keeping score rather than enforcing soccer rules. "Hot!" moaned Tommy. "Time out for stripping down!" By now many of the men had gathered to watch their boys chase the ball around. Pol was cheering Rinnie on, and even Dr. Tanaka was nodding whenever Tommy used his dancer's strength to make a graceful run. Charlie was putting far more energy into looking cute than into following the ball. He had a different kind of scoring in mind. He smirked when he saw Mr. Cole was watching the game with a sullen Owen beside him and a lecherous look on his face. Whether or not he agreed Owen was a brat, Pete clearly wanted to have at the boys. "Whoo! Tommy!" hollered Luke, and Charlie turned to look. Tommy had taken off his jeans, and was just wrapped in a strip of cloth around his waist and crotch. "Wow," said Charlie. "You look fantastic!" Tommy's ownership scar sat just above the linen, and his piercings glinted in the sun. Tommy swished his black rope of hair and bowed a little at his old friend. "Sensei likes me in traditional clothes. And fundoshi are great when you get used to them. And super-flirty! Look!" Tommy turned and waggled his butt -- his ass was a perfect peach with just the smallest line of white material in his crack. "Better than a thong!" "Tommy-chan! Stop flaunting yourself and play!" called Dr. Tanaka. "You are not being decorous!" "You bet I'm not," muttered Tommy to Charlie, and loped off to tackle Kyle. The game rapidly became a matter of boys showing off for the men and attempting to gain the attention of whichever sir was their target. Charlie 33

plain old waved at Pol after a bit, and pointed at his ass. He caught Ben laughing at his unsubtle boy, and grinned. Dexter and Rory shrieked and ran off the pitch pursued by each other's sirs and disappeared behind the woodshed. "Game is called on account of, um, a sudden outbreak of bonking!" declared Chris and made a beeline for Mike. Tommy positively sashayed over to Dr. Tanaka, and Charlie couldn't help noticing that Pete's gaze tracked him the whole way. He wasn't the only one to notice. Owen's face turned step-sister ugly. "Your diaper's giving you a wedgie!" Tommy whirled. "Shut the fuck up, bishie-boy!" He drew back his fist, and Owen squawked. Rather than hide behind Pete, he took off across the yard, and Tommy pelted after him. "I should order him to stop," said Dr. Tanaka. "Yeah," said Pete, also doing nothing. They strolled after their boys. Charlie was torn -- he wanted to see what was happening, but he also wanted to see what getting fucked by Dr. Rønne was like. Dr. Rønne was the alpha after all, and Charlie had his suspicions about him and Dr. Fell. Pol resolved it for him. He stuck out his hand to Charlie, and said, "Come on, Cupcake, we'll watch some boy wrestling as a warm up." "Twink," said Charlie politely as he took Pol's hand, "not Cupcake." "Pardon me," said Pol. "I knew it was some strange American confection. Although I was sure it wasn't HoHo." Charlie giggled as they followed the sounds of Owen's shrieks. "That's okay. Dr. Fell called me a Ding-Dong last week." "He's good with a Zinger," said Pol, betraying a remarkable depth of knowledge about snack-cakes. "You should write an article," said Charlie, straining to see what Tommy was doing. "Rinnie told me you write funny stuff about supermarkets and how people act."

34

Pol nodded as he and Charlie squeezed through a gap in the crowd around Tommy and Owen. "I could. My last one was about Wal-Mart at 2 a.m. I can feel 'Sno-balls and Suzie Qs: A survey of 7-11 snacks' brewing a research question right now!" "Give me a footnote, please," said Charlie. "Oh! Owen! No!" Owen's tight T-shirt had been ripped off, but he had a firm grip in the back of Tommy's fundoshi and was heaving in an effort to wedgie Tommy. Tommy's fingers were entangled in Owen's hair and he was yanking Owen's head around. "Very pretty," said Pol, caressing Charlie's arm. Tommy wrapped a long slim leg around Owen, and flipped him. "Pete!" wailed Owen. "Make him stop." Dr. Tanaka gave Pete a glance, and they both stayed still. Tommy scrambled astride Owen's waist, and pulled back his hand. "Apologize!" Owen spat, and the crowd groaned. "Aw, man," said Tommy, wiping his face. "Owen! Now I have to pop you one. And Sensei is sure to beat me for that." "Serves you right," sneered Owen, and then yelped as Tommy insulted him with a gentle tap on his mouth. "Serves me right?" said Tommy as he rolled off and tugged his fundoshi from his crack. He hung his head, and presented himself to Dr. Tanaka. "I'm sorry, Dr. Tanaka. Being provoked is no excuse, and I'm ready for my punishment." "Heh," said Dr. Tanaka and walked away. Tommy followed him. Charlie squirmed on his friend's behalf. How awful to have such a silent owner! He gave Owen a contemptuous look, and squeezed Pol's hand. "I need to be crème filled!" "Come along then, boy. We get a bed since I am senior." Charlie giggled. "Did Dr. Fell squeal on me?" 35

"My Johnny can keep no secrets from me," said Dr. Rønne with a jolly smile. "Really?" mused Charlie. Pol chuckled. "But I keep all his. Now, tell me what's off limits for you." Charlie chattered about his safe word and what Ben did and did not allow as they returned to the cabin. He fell silent as Pol shut the door to the bedroom. His mood shifted now he was alone with a sir. The alpha sir! He sat down suddenly on the edge of the bed, and gulped. "Don't worry, Charlie, I'm not at all extreme. You see how terrified Rinnie is?" Charlie smiled as expected, but continued to eye Pol as if he were a predator. Men were often different away from their own boy. "Undress," said Pol. "Those shorts are cute, but pink camo is going to harsh my scene." Charlie wriggled out of them and his sneakers. He placed his glasses on the nightstand. He'd gone commando so all he had left was his cut-off Tshirt. "Leave that." Pol was still dressed, and Charlie felt very exposed. His shirt skimmed his nipples. "Such a pretty boy," mused Pol as he had Charlie turn for him. "Bruised bottom, too." "Ben beat me." "For fun?" "Yes!" "Good. You're getting married I hear?" Pol twisted Charlie's T-shirt hem up and over his face so his chest was exposed and his arms trapped. "Uh-huh," said Charlie, muffled. He wriggled his ring finger. "Engaged!" "And you are both proud papas?" "I am! And Ben will be." 36

"And you'd like me to beat and fuck your ass?" "Yes, please!" Pol stroked Charlie's belly, and watched him squirm. "I'm sure you're a good father." "Try to be," said Charlie through his T-shirt. "I think I've learned a lot about looking after people and growing up." "No doubt. Now on your knees, and put your head on my boots." Charlie struggled down, purblind under his shirt, and hampered by his arms' immobility. He gave a contented sigh when his forehead bumped Pol's boots. "Hands behind your back and just be," said Pol. "My butt says BE." "So I see. Now be quiet, and just breathe." Charlie felt his world shrink to the pressure under his knees and the leather under his forehead. He inhaled. Pol had walked in the woods before watching the soccer match and fight, and a few pine needles must have clung to his laces. Charlie could smell the resin along with the scent of grass clippings. It was so good to be kneeling for someone he'd rarely see. A safe stranger. Someone who he didn't have to have dinner with or write reports for or all those other daily things he did with Ben and Fell. Someone who was just Sir. Pol didn't speak, but tapped Charlie's chin with his toe, and Charlie knelt up. Pol pulled the T-shirt up and over, and twisted it around to tie Charlie's wrists. All was quiet except for their intense breathing and some muffled yelps from Dr. Tanaka's sleeping loft. Charlie moaned as Pol caressed his nipples. He was gentle! "Tender is torture," murmured Pol, and Charlie nodded. Pol landed a soft slap on Charlie's ass. The mild spanking soon had Charlie writhing. His old bruises bloomed into a rolling deep ache and he groaned. Ben and Pol's blows were blending. Damn, Dr. Rønne knew exactly what he was doing. 37

Oh, his fingers were sliding close to Charlie's hole as he spanked. Charlie tilted his hips to increase access. He heard Pol chuckle, and then there was pressure on his hole. "Please," whimpered Charlie. How could he have been reduced to begging already? Pol's hands were expert and firm as he rolled Charlie's aching balls, and then pushed Charlie into a kneeling position with his forehead resting on his bound hands. He pumped his ass at Pol. "Patience, boy. You know very well who decides the pace." Charlie rolled his eyes. Sirs and their belief that they were in charge! He hung his head obediently, and waited for the cool touch of lube he knew was coming. Shit! Pol was suddenly rough. He'd rammed into Charlie without any polite nudging or teasing, but, thankfully, with a generous gloop of Liquid Silk. Charlie nearly fell forward with the thrust, and scrabbled with his tied hands to get a purchase on the bed. "Rest on your forearms and elbows," commanded Pol. "I'm going to ride you, boy." "Oh yeah," gasped Charlie, giving into the pounding. No wonder Rinnie looked so happy and satisfied. Pol plowed Charlie so vigorously that Fell's sturdy bed shook. Charlie could see his own glistening cock waving at him. A fraction more bounce, and, oh yeah, his cock slapped against his belly just right. "No!" wailed Charlie as Pol stopped moving. "Oh, little boy, you thought you were getting what you wanted that easily? Silly twink! Roll over onto your side. Don't let me slide out." You bet I won't, thought Charlie, clenching his ass around Pol's dick as he squirmed around until Pol was pleased with their new position. Pol changed from pounding to a steady, tormenting, rhythm while he constantly teased Charlie's nipples and balls but ignored his slick cock. Every hair on Charlie's body vibrated under Pol's strokes, and he bucked as much as he dared to get the release he craved. Pol backed off every time Charlie was close to coming. Charlie felt fantastic and miserable all at once. The peak of sensation and its denial shimmered in and out and he burst out with a cry of desire. 38

"One more position," whispered Pol. "Face to face, boy, legs around my waist." Charlie was sure all the bones in his body had dissolved, but he obeyed and dared to slip his arms around Pol's neck. They moved in unison as if they were underwater. Their sweat combined on Charlie's belly, and his cock twitched madly. Charlie blinked in surprise. Pol was kissing him. Not a deep, demanding, plundering one, but a fond teasing of their lips and a tickle of his tongue. Their motion became languorous and Charlie passed from urgent need to suspended in delight. At long last, Pol groaned and tensed. As he shuddered, he lifted one hand to grasp Charlie's cock and give it a long-denied stroke. Charlie all but screamed as his come squirted through Pol's fingers. Pol sprawled on top of him, and they shuddered and panted together. Pol continued to toy with Charlie's sticky, plump cock. "I think I like squeezing the crème from a Twinkie," said Pol solemnly. Charlie snorted. "I'm the hostess with the mostess!" He considered snuggling, but now they'd come the heat of the day asserted itself more. They flopped apart at an angle so they could cool off a little, but were still conjoined from the waist down. "Nice!" yawned Charlie. "It was like three different sirs!" "Smart boy," said Pol and cupped Charlie's ass. "I like to fuck, then screw, and, finally, make love." "Which was Johnny's favorite?" asked Charlie, sure he had unraveled the mystery of Pol and Fell. "I don't kiss and tell," said Pol, and slapped Charlie's rump, withdrew from him, and rolled to the edge of the bed. "Ow! That stung!" said Charlie, but he hugged himself. Surely not telling implied there was a tale to be told? He would never have believed his conclusion even just a few years ago, but now he was beyond sure. No wonder Dr. Fell always knew what a boy needed. "My secret," whispered Charlie. Too precious even to tell Ben or ever hint to Fell that he knew. "Share the shower with me, boy," commanded Pol. "You can soap me up, and have some warm water for your sticky self." *** 39

The soccer game and boy fight and subsequent fuck-fest seemed to have worn everyone out. The cabin's grounds were peaceful as most visitors snoozed or sunbathed the afternoon away. Tommy scrambled down from the sleeping loft as Charlie headed out. He was moving gingerly, but glowed. He and Charlie grabbed a few cold cuts for lunch and headed down to the river to catch up and dangle their feet in the cool water. They paused as they emerged from the wooded path. Dr. Fell was already there reading with his dogs lolling next to him. As one, Tommy and Charlie moved backward. They knew how Fell needed his alone time. "Join me," grumbled Fell. "Just go over on the rocks, and don't pester me. I'm listening to your birthday present, Charlie." He paused. "Thank you. The Tallis Scholars is an excellent choice." Charlie basked. He'd researched for ages. A Hello Kitty fountain pen might be funny and cute, but Charlie had wanted Fell to like his present. Deprived of noisy gossip, Charlie and Tommy settled into whispering shared confidences, and soon fell asleep resting on each other part way through Tommy telling a story about Dr. Tanaka once having lied to him about never teaching something or other, but it was all okay because... They woke up stiff and a little sunburned, but also giggling because Dr. Fell had left the dogs guarding them. "Just in case dangerous girls came by," snorted Tommy as they jogged up the track herded by the dogs. "I saw Fell holding a girl." "Shut up! You did not!" "Did, too. Owen got a pic on his phone." Tommy rolled his eyes. "As if he'd share with me. Owen's turned into a real bitch since I last saw him." "Rinnie thinks he's jealous 'cos he's not owned." "He could be owned," said Tommy. "Pete's pretty intense when he tops." "Owen's too silly to admit he's changed his mind." "I don't think he knows he's changed his mind," mused Tommy. "He's acting up to have it changed for him." 40

Charlie nodded. "I think you're right. The guys are going to talk to Pete later. I wonder if they'll persuade him to ask Owen to be a boy?" "He is a boy," said Tommy. "And there's nothing worse than a boy without an owner." "True," said Charlie, nearly tripping over Ghia as they all burst out of the trail and into the cabin's backyard. "I hope Pete does ask him. I mean, Owen'll have a rotten time for a bit, but then he'll be so much happier!" "I need to see that pic," replied Tommy. "Can you ask to see it? He'll never show it to me." They found Owen drinking iced tea and hogging the porch swing. Luke and Laurie were lying on the porch playing cards. Owen sighed dramatically when Charlie and Tommy sat down on either side of him. "Can I see my party pics again?" asked Charlie. "Owen," said Tommy. "Dr. Tanaka said I shouldn't have reacted to you. So, uh, I'm sorry I did." Charlie muffled a snort at the non-apology, but Owen gave a regal nod, and then, with a condescending air, flipped open his phone. Laurie and Luke scrambled up to see as well. Owen thumbed through some almost too fast, but he did stop when Charlie requested. "See, Tommy!" "Aw, Charlie! That's not a girl!" "Is too! That's my Little Bit! I know Kelly put her in green -- again -- but, honestly, that's Charlotte." Tommy cooed over the pic of his friend's daughter sitting imperiously in Dr. Fell's lap. "She really likes him," said Charlie. "He even got her to settle down when her new tooth was hurting." "Well, he's had enough practice with brats," said Owen. No one rose to the bait. Owen clicked at his phone a few more times. "Here. I took a vid. This is hilarious!" Charlie felt his heart go gooey as he watched mean old Fell sing a lullaby to his Little Bit. He hadn't seen Fell do that at the party. Of course, being 41

Fell it was something weird about keeping spotted snakes and thorny hedgehogs away, but he called Little Bit a fairy queen! Owen sneered. "What a loser! He can't even do hush-a-bye like a normal person." Charlie bristled. "Owen! That's the last fucking straw! Dr. Fell is your host even if you don't answer to him." The screen door creaked, and Dr. Fell stepped out. "Ooh fuck," said Luke, Laurie, and Tommy in unison. "Phone," said Fell, and snapped his fingers. To Owen's obvious surprise, Owen obeyed and gave Dr. Fell his phone. "Charlie, go and tell Ben the meeting needs to be convened early. As in now! And send me a boy who can do techie stuff." Fell looked at the phone in his hand with distaste. He turned on his heel, went inside, and let the screen door bang. "Sucks to be you," mouthed Tommy at Owen, and followed Fell. "Sir, I can do techie stuff." Charlie couldn't even think what expression to have on his face or what to say to Owen, so he just left to find Ben. After a few seconds, he was overtaken by Luke and Laurie dashing away to tell the other boys what had happened. In a surprisingly short time, the meeting was called to order. Charlie got to sit in as the foundation's secretary, and the other boys hovered as close as they dared until Mike yelled at them to entertain Martin since he was a guest. Charlie suspected that the guys found having a non-group affiliated top around very useful, both for learning new tricks and for distracting nosy boys. To Charlie's frustration, the men worked through the planned agenda. Earlier today he'd have been thrilled to learn Pol was going to serve as chair of his department until Rinnie finished a PhD and then he'd take early retirement and move to Peru with Rinnie. Oh, and now he was being discussed. He guessed he'd pay attention to that! He gulped. Greg and Ben had a proposal that Charlie be the new codirector of the foundation. Now Fell was so busy at the jail, he didn't have time for the admin. This way Charlie and he could both be part time at the foundation and have their other jobs. Ben grinned at his boy. 42

"What do you say, Charlie? It'll let you use your degree more, and you can start some new funding projects. Fell can focus on the D/s training part." Charlie swallowed hard. Co-anything with Fell sounded terrifying, but getting to run a foundation? Hell, yeah! "Yes, please, sirs." "We have a motion and a second. How says the membership?" Charlie burned red as all the sirs gave a resounding aye. "In other business, Dr. Fell requests that we formally witness that David Gunnar Rasmussen has agreed he will not join the National Guard or undertake any other military service. In exchange, John Evanlee Fell agrees to take part in one Habitat for Humanity build a year, and to attend any Patriot Guard Riders funeral detail event within two hundred miles at the request of any Rasmussen." Charlie smothered a giggle as he recorded the agreement in the minutes. Rass had finally gotten his bike, but Cindy used it as much as he did, and she and Dave had even taken off together on Fell and Rass's bikes. The Fell-Rasmussens had started going on bike runs, and Charlie couldn't help being amused at the Fell going on trips with his in-laws. Finally, Ben announced that the group had a request to make of Pete Cole. Charlie rubbed his hands. He wasn't being mean -- he really hoped Owen could get to be as happy as he was. Well, he amended, he did want Owen to get his comeuppance, too. "Charlie, you are dismissed. You're no longer secretary." "What! Ben! But I'm co-director. I still get to stay." "This is a board meeting, not a staff meeting. Give the notepad to Greg. He's agreed to be interim secretary." "Well!" exclaimed Charlie, and stamped off. "So unfair!" Colby and Kyle were pampering Martin with a massage and blow job, but the others gathered around Charlie to learn what they could. He passed on his news, but all were disappointed at the lack of Owen information. "Where is Owen?" asked Charlie, belatedly.

43

"Laurie locked him in Fell's woodshed," said Dexter, glowing with delight. "Owen tried to back his Bug out and leave!" Pete stood up and paced around as if he were giving one of his summations in court, waved his arms a bit, and then sat down. The boys strained to hear. Various men stood and spoke. After a while Pete nodded, and stepped out of the circle. "He's coming over," squeaked Dexter. "Where's Owen?" Everyone scrutinized Pete's face for a clue. Was he taking his partner and leaving, or was he going to get a boy from the woodshed? Laurie handed him the key and pointed mutely. Pete weighed the key in his palm, and then strode to the woodshed. "Aw, man," whined Tommy. "Pete's staying inside. We're missing everything." The boys sat down and divided their attention between the ongoing meeting, the ominously quiet woodshed, and the happy moans from Martin, Kyle, and Colby. They gossiped quietly as they watched. Rinnie shared how relieved he was to be able to talk about Pol's relocation plans, and Dave caught them up with how he and Fell had been wrangling about Dave's desire to serve. Tommy let them know Fell had wanted a techie boy to save the party pictures before deleting them from Owen's phone. Tommy had e-mailed them all -- including the video -- to Charlie and Kelly with Fell's permission. Tommy showed off his navel piercing charm of a small lucky shrine. Dr. Tanaka had taken to buying him little trinkets to wear there. Tommy also traced the outlines of his belly scar and with quiet pride told them he was going to meet his owner's family next year. "Although," Tommy added, "that's the scariest thing he's asked of me!" Speculation turned to what the party favors from Mike could be, and Chris simply shook his head at the guesses. "I'm usually the party favor," said Charlie. "It'll be nice to get one for a change!"

44

To distract them, Chris gave them all a walkthrough of his famous bear bait snack mix recipe which involved lots of pretzels, salty nuts, and jerky. "They're taking forever," said Rory. "What's so hard? Boy or not boy!" Dexter giggled. "Owen must be negotiating for pedicure privileges." "Owen is a total uke," said Tommy, without a trace of a sneer. "He's so girly. He even has his ears pierced in just a pair! Sensei taught me a word for him: ohtohmen. He likes female stuff. Not just camp and silly, like me and twink." "Mr. Cole is weird," said Laurie. "Liking a girly-boy." Charlie snorted. "I don't think any of us are in a position to judge weird." "Door's opening!" said Rory. Pete came out. Charlie felt sure he was already holding his shoulders more sir-ishly. "Yes!" chorused the boys as they saw Owen was shirtless, hanging his head, and walking a few respectful steps behind Pete. Pete sauntered back to the men, and, with just a pause, Owen knelt down next to him. Pete rested his hand at Owen's nape while he talked to the group. There was nodding around the circle. The boys gasped as Pete tangled his hands in Owen's coiffed hair and jerked his head back. No one had ever seen delicate Owen be so roughly treated. "Charlie," called Ben. "Get the box of party favors." Charlie stumbled in his haste to obey, but soon had the carton delivered. He stayed in the circle as Ben opened the lid and rummaged. Charlie caught a glimpse of cock rings, blindfolds, and gags. Owen was crying, and resting his head against Pete's hip, but he was not struggling. He even looked cute with a runny nose. Ben pulled out a hand-tooled collar and handed it to Pete. Without ceremony or even speaking to Owen, Pete buckled it around his boy's neck, and checked its snugness. He shoved Owen's head back down. "He's off-limits until I've trained him, but I think a little public display will be in order this week." 45

Owen's shoulders shook, and Charlie felt a spasm of empathy. Lucky Owen, how he was going to suffer! "So," said Dr. Fell, "any other business for the good of the order? Announcements?" "No," said Pete. "Adjourn the meeting." The men broke into small groups, and the boys rushed over. Owen kept his head down, and Pete glowered. "Back off, boys. You'll get a chance to be with him later, but for now he's not to speak. Don't mess with him. Yet." Owen trembled. Tommy cleared his throat. "We wouldn't, Mr. Cole. Not now he's really one of us." Dr. Tanaka gave his short "heh" and then said, "Well Tommy, I'm glad you are feeling so generous. Later you are giving a demonstration in how to wear a fundoshi. Owen will be your model." "Hee," squealed Tommy. "I mean, hai, Sensei!" "Walk, Owen," said Pete, and set off to the punishment platform Fell and Mike had built on the first day. "You too, Charlie." Charlie blinked. It was Dave ordering him. "Now," said Dave, and Charlie obeyed. He caught a glimpse of startled boys as he walked to heel behind Dave. Dave hadn't made a big deal to the other boys about his retreat status, and while Fell had been fucking whoever took his fancy, Dave had not yet experimented. Pete had Owen naked already, and the boy was kneeling next to the post in the center of the platform. The sun was going down, but the air was still warm. Mike started the firepit for dinner and atmosphere. "Plenty of room for you two," said Pete. "He's just going to be kneeling on display." He clipped a short chain to Owen's collar, and then to an eyebolt at the base of the post. Owen whimpered. He had enough freedom to lie down or stay bent over in a kneeling position, but he couldn't stand or even sit. His hands were free, so he could release himself whenever he 46

chose, but no doubt even Owen knew that would be stupid. Pete ruffled his hair. "You're lovely like this, sweetheart. You don't have to do anything except be quiet and wait for me to release you. No one will touch you." He kissed Owen's pout, and left. Charlie felt it behooved himself to ignore his friend's muffled sobs, and Dave also acted as if they were alone on the platform. "Undress, Charlie. John has asked me to beat you. He's going to give me a tutorial, so I'll be supervised." Charlie's unruly prick leapt as he stripped. He didn't even care that several guys had drawn up lawn chairs and settled in to watch him and Owen. Dave's movements were sure and calm as he attached Charlie's wrists to the post above Charlie's head. Owen's disheveled hair tickled Charlie's toes. He closed his eyes to start his slow breathing. It felt so good to be naked in the warm summer evening with the sky-blue pink clouds with golden god-is-speaking shafts of light coming down, and listening to the first sparks pop in the fire and getting used to the slight pull in his arms. He heard Fell's boots clomp onto the platform, and his space settled in. "There's the smile he gets," said Fell to Dave. "Twink goes into his zone sweet as can be. Other boys, you'll need to work at it more." Charlie murmured as a hand caressed his ass. "He's already bruised up, so should I go easy on his rump?" "He's all the colors of the rectum," said Fell, and his terrible joke almost ruined Charlie's headspace. "Just focus on his back and thighs, Dave." There was nothing tentative about the crop blow that landed on Charlie's thigh. He was soon groaning and offering his rump to Dave's beating despite his bruises. Dave landed one or two on each cheek, and then returned to lashing at Charlie's thighs. Charlie could dimly hear Fell offering tips on placement and on technique, but he was flying. Dave was an apt pupil. Charlie's brain did a logic cartwheel, and he worried Dave would outgrow Fell just as Fell had moved on from Pol, but a final whack from the crop drove the half-formed thought from his mind. Dave turned him and caressed his balls with the crop tip. "Charlie?" "Mmm?" 47

"May I fuck you?" "Uh-huh," managed Charlie, and grinned dopily. Fell unhooked Charlie's wrists, and supported him down into a doggie position. Fell knelt by Charlie's head and petted him as Dave tore off his jeans. "No need for haste, Dave," said Fell as he tweaked one of Charlie's nipples. "Twink's not going anywhere." Charlie shook his head, and saw Ben leaning back in a lawn chair watching his boy with intense pride. Charlie lifted his ass to receive Dave's cock, and yelped just a little as Dave entered. Being fucked by another boy was always a trip -- they knew all the fine-tuned movements -- and Dave was no exception. Charlie was reduced to sluttish moans in no time, and his cock dripped. "He's too noisy, sir," gasped Dave. "Would you mind?" Dr. Fell laughed. "Happy to oblige, boy. Charlie, put that mouth to work." Charlie managed a delighted "yeah" before his mouth was stuffed with Dr. Fell's prick. Holy shit, Fell-Rasmussen was a team to be reckoned with -they rocked Charlie from both ends and he thought he might levitate with just the two cocks holding him up. He heard Mike make some joke about prime meat on a spit, but he simply writhed. Charlie turned his head enough to see Owen curled at the base of the post watching intently. Owen's pretty cock was red and glistening. Charlie envied the boy at the start of his journey, but oh God, he had arrived! He twisted in the other direction and stared at Ben. Pigs might fly before his family agreed, but Charles Erikson had found his place.

End If you liked this book you might like: Pink: Dolorosa, also by Syd McGinley.

48