The Farmer and Dale

THE FARMER AND DALE

Chapter 3

Fear had driven Rick away. Fear of the unknown, of how his family would react. All his life his parents and siblings had been his rock, the solid foundation that made his life work. The thought of losing them left him feeling lost, alone.

That night, after making love with Dale that last time, he'd awoken shivering, anxiety creeping over him, fear knifing into his gut. He rose quietly and seated himself in one of the oak chairs that Dale had kept in the bedroom. He watched Dale sleep, so innocently, so peacefully. He contemplated his future with Dale, wondering if he could really sacrifice his family for him. What if things didn't work out? He'd find himself totally alone, no lover, no family, no friends. What if he ended up resenting Dale for his loss? Tears crept down his cheeks at the thought of this joyous love he felt, turning into something ugly and hurtful. Panic rose, twisting his guts, forcing him up and out. He ran.

Five days later, Rick too was punishing himself. He did every shit job he could find, just to keep himself occupied. At night he'd drive into Smiley's, and drink even the regulars under the table. Everyday he woke with a hangover, puking his guts out. Pale and shaking, he'd return to work, sweating the remaining alcohol out of his system, returning to Smiley's for another round of poison each night. He too, ate little. Guilt and anger kept his stomach twisted, when the alcohol wasn't of sufficient quantity to make him forget.

He wore a brace on his left hand. Cursing himself for his cowardice, agonizing over Dale and what he must be going though, blinded by rage at himself and the situation, Rick had punched a support beam in the barn, acquiring a hairline fracture. The six by six beam suffered no damage.

That night at Smiley's, he sat alone in a booth, contemplating that magical night with Dale. His friends and those clinging women, knew better now than to disturb him. Rick had become surly and uncommunicative. He made it clear he wanted no company.

He sat and studied the pictures he'd pulled from his wallet. His parents, his siblings and their spouses, assorted nieces and nephews. A picture of Dale filled his mind. Dale joking with him, teasing him. Dale fixing him coffee, that indulgent smile curving his sweet lips. Dale working with him, side by side, laboring through his exhaustion. Dale under him, their bodies joined, his words of love filling Rick's ears and his heart.

Tears filled his eyes and rolled dolefully down his cheeks. Suddenly he slid out of the booth, dashing away the tears. He staggered out of the bar, leaving early, his alcohol buzzed brain seized with the notion to see Dale. He had to see Dale. Had to be with Dale.

Rick drove slowly, with exaggerated care. He had to get to Dale. He arrived to find the house pitch dark, not surprising as it was after one in the morning. He exited his truck and climbed the front porch steps. Hesitating only a moment, he began knocking at the door. He saw a light come on behind the concealing curtains. The fabric parted slightly, Dale's face appeared. His expression was at first annoyed, then startled. Rick caught a fleeting glimpse of infinite pain that was suddenly blanked.

The front door opened. Dale kept the screen door locked, it stood between them.

"What are you doing here, Rick?" he question coldly.

"I had to see you, to tell you how sorry I am that I left." he paused then blurted the words he couldn't keep inside, "I had to tell you how much I love you."

Dale blanched, drawing back as though struck, his voice quivered, "You're drunk, go home." He closed the door.

Rick heard the dead-bolt click. He turned away, shocked as his heart shattered. Sliding to his knees on the porch floor, wracking sobs shook his body. He thought he'd felt pain before. It was nothing compared to this. Dale hated him. His life was over.

He didn't hear the door open, didn't see the figure that stood over him, until warm arms encircled him. Dale's scent filled his nostrils, he fumbled his arms around that precious body, holding on for dear life.

Dale's murmured words penetrated his consciousness, "It's not fair, where were you when I cried? Where were you? Where were you?"

Rick finally realized that Dale was crying too. "I'm sorry baby, so sorry. I was scared, I didn't know what to do. I know I hurt you. I didn't want to. I didn't know what to do. I just didn't know what to do."

Dale pulled away, "You were scared? You didn't know what to do? You should have talked to me. That's what you should have done. You think I wasn't scared too, after all the shit I've been through?" Dale described in short pithy sentences, his failed relationship with Tony.

Rick stared at Dale, the realization of just how deeply he'd hurt him seeping in. He rose on unsteady legs and turned away.

"Where are you going?" Dale demanded.

Head hanging, Rick explained, his voice a defeated mumble, "I know you can never forgive me Dale. I want you to know, you were the best thing that ever happened to me. You deserve someone a hell of a lot better than me." He placed a foot forward, preparing to walk away one final time.

"I swear to God, Rick Hunter, if you walk away, I'm going to kick your fucking ass." Dale ground out each word, his voice a fierce growl.

Rick turned, surprise giving him an almost comical expression. Hope filled his eyes.

"Do you love me?" Dale asked quietly.

Rick nodded.

"Do you promise from now on to share every problem with me? To talk to me? To give us a chance to find a solution together?"

Rick nodded again.

"Get your ass in the house." Dale ordered.

A ghost of Rick's patented grin made a fleeting appearance on his face as chastened, he entered the house.

Dale led him into the kitchen, indicating he should sit. Rick's eyes followed him non-stop as Dale fixed a pot of coffee. He placed a steaming cup in front of Rick and sat next to him. He studied Rick with a critical air as he sipped his coffee.

Reaching out, he brushed Rick's hair back from his face, "Looking a little rough there, farm boy."

Rick closed his eyes momentarily, nodding his agreement. He shivered at Dale's familiar, yet fleeting touch. He opened his eyes, running a critical assessment of Dale.

"You look a little haggard yourself." he observed quietly.

"It's been rough." Dale admitted.

Rick broke eye contact, his gaze fastening on the table.

Dale sighed, "I didn't say that to make you feel bad, Rick. I just figure we should be truthful with each other. I'm guessing you've made yourself feel almost as bad as I could." He grazed his finger-tips over the brace on Rick's hand. "What happened here?"

"Hairline fracture," Rick admitted.

"How'd you manage that?" Dale asked.

Rick grimaced, a blush heating his cheeks.

Dale's eyebrow raised.

"I was...uh...upset, I hit a support beam in the barn." Rick confessed shamefacedly.

Dale tried to suppress a smile but was unsuccessful, "So you tried to beat up a barn. Gutsy. Real gutsy, Hunter."

Eye contact resulted in unsuppressed chuckles. The laughter eased the tension.

Dale stood, "Come on, you look like you could use a shower and some sleep."

He lead the way upstairs. As Rick stripped, Dale laid out fresh towels for him. While Rick showered, Dale splashed water on his face, used the toilet and resisted the urge to flush it, just to hear Rick yell as the water got unexpectedly warm. He returned to the bedroom and stripped off his jeans, briefly considering whether he wanted to don briefs or sleep naked as usual. He opted for usual.

Rick made his appearance, hair damp, a towel wrapped around his waist.

He hesitantly approached the bed, "If you want, I can sleep on the couch, or in one of the other bedrooms. I don't want to push you Dale. I want you to be comfortable, but.... I'd really like to hold you babe. Just hold you, nothing else."

A soft smile graced Dale's lips. He pulled back the covers, silently inviting Rick in. Rick smiled in return, dropped the towel and climbed in. The two of them snuggled together, Dale kissed Rick's shoulder and sighed. Bodies relaxed. The effects of emotional and physical ravages took hold. The reunited lovers fell instantly asleep, locked securely in each other's arms.

Dale woke slowly, stretching. His eyes blinked open. It was fully daylight, the sun well up. A thrill of panic clenched his stomach. He rolled forcefully, his elbow connecting with the hard abs of the man who lay next to him. Rick grunted, bending to protect his besieged mid-section.

"Damn, babe, are you going wake me up like this every morning? I was hoping for something a little sexier, if you know what I mean." He gave his eyebrows a lascivious wiggle.

"Sorry," Dale murmured, his breathing a bit rapid, "I wasn't sure... I didn't know..." He stopped, unsure of what to say without sounding accusing.

Rick rose up on his elbow, pushing Dale to his back, "I'm not going anywhere. I'll never leave you again." He nuzzled Dale playfully, "Except for one thing. I really gotta piss. Bad."

He clambered over Dale's reclined form, his morning hardon poking Dale as he went. Dale reached out, delivering a resounding smack to Rick's retreating ass. Rick yelped and halted, turning a frowning gaze on Dale's innocent face.

"You will pay for that, my innocent, little angel, mark my words." He continued on to the bathroom, "By the way, if you need to pee, you better get in here. That's the only reason you get to leave that bed today."

Dale grinned, eager to comply, he anticipated Rick's lovemaking. He was disappointed. Rick kept him in bed all right, he made him rest and eat. Last night, when Rick joined Dale in bed, he became vividly aware of the physical manifestations of Dale's ordeal. The weight-loss was noticeable. Dale had dark circles under his eyes that had not been there before. Remorse weighed heavily on Rick as he held Dale close through the night. He was determined to erase all reminders of his mistake, both physical and emotional.

He began by bringing breakfast in bed. He brought enough for two and they spent a pleasant, and to Dale's way of thinking, frustrating hour, feeding, teasing and arousing each other with no more release than that provided by a few long, hot kisses. Dale assured Rick that he was fine, to no avail, Rick just shoved another tidbit in his mouth, admonishing him to eat.

Between meals, they slept, or read, or watched movies. Rick stayed at Dale's side the entire day, except to prepare meals. Rick would be the last to admit it, but his own body needed replenishment as well. His meals had been sparse, his body inundated with too much alcohol. Rick felt somewhat jittery and tired that day, he gratefully took his naps alongside Dale.

He slept especially sound during the late afternoon hours before supper. He woke to an empty bed, Dale having disappeared. He checked the bathroom, then downstairs, finding Dale in the kitchen preparing supper. He frowned fiercely.

"Damn it, Dale, your supposed to be in bed!"

Dale jumped, flipping a handful of salad greens out of the colander and into the sink, "Shit! Did you have to scare me like that?"

Rick moved to the sink, relieving Dale of the colander. "Go back to bed," he ordered.

"Rick."

"Bed."

"Damn it, Rick, I'm not the only one who needs to be in bed. You think I can't see that you suffered too?" Dale admonished him. "You lost weight, angel, and you're tired. You didn't stir when I got out of bed."

Rick's anger was defused, "You're too observant, you know. Am I ever going to be able to put anything over on you?"

"No," Dale chuckled, "but you're welcome to keep trying."

"All right," Rick conceded, "I propose a compromise. We fix supper together, then we both go to bed."

"On one condition," Dale agreed, "sometime, before this night is over, you have to touch me with improper intent."

Rick looked at Dale, feigning shock, " Why, Mr. Vaden, I'm surprised at you! Are you inviting me to take carnal liberties with your person?"

"You damn well better believe I am." Dale complained, "I'm horny."

Rick snickered at Dale's plaintive admission, "Come here, you." He hooked an arm around Dale's neck, pulling him close. "I promise to perform, sordid, lewd and lascivious acts on your body, later. You'll be my soiled dove, my fallen angel, my deflowered virgin."

Dale's brows rose at the last moniker, "Um, I think it's a little late for that for that last one."

"You're right," Rick agreed with a shrug, "ah well. Hey, maybe I should introduce you to my favorite role playing fantasy. It's called, Milking the Cow."

Dale frowned, his face was a study in confusion and disbelief. He looked at Rick from under lowered lashes, unsure if he was serious or not.

Rick lost his struggle to keep a straight face, he burst out laughing, "Lord, you should see your face!"

Dale grinned sheepishly, "I didn't know if I should be jealous because you've been doing the cows, or drop to all fours and practice my moo."

Rick howled with laughter as tears streaked down his face. Dale grabbed him as he staggered into his arms.

"You're a nut." he accused Rick fondly, "Must be why I feel I have to take pity on you and give you a little lovin'."

"Bullshit," Rick chuckled. "You know it's because you find me sexy and irresistible."

Dale solicitously patted Rick on the back, while pretending to humor him, "Oh yeah, that's right, I forgot. Come on sweetie, let's get supper started. You need to eat. I think you're a little light headed."

The two of them continued their banter as they fixed their supper. They fixed a simple meal, salad, toasted cheese sandwiches, and cream of tomato soup. Neither had the inclination to play gourmet. It was just too much trouble, they wanted a quick fix, simple food and a quicker cleanup. That accomplished they returned upstairs.

Rick declined sharing the shower with Dale, much to Dale's disappointment. After performing his nightly bedtime rituals, he turned the bathroom over to Rick and jumped into bed, waiting impatiently. When Rick joined him in bed, he immediately became the aggressor. He kissed Rick with all his pent up passion, wringing moans from him. His hands wandered Rick's body, massaging, arousing. Having taken enough, Rick went on the offensive. He rolled Dale over onto his stomach.

"I want you on your knees, baby." he ordered.

Dale complied, groaning as Rick draped himself over his body. Rick reached around and took Dale's cock in hand, slowly stroking.

"Guess what I found." Rick whispered in his ear.

"What?" Dale panted, totally unprepared for Rick's next salvo.

"A teat." Rick answered.

Dale growled a warning, "Rick, don't start." Irritated, Dale couldn't help the laughter that began slowly bubbling inside.

Rick ignored him and continued to pull at Dale's cock, "It's a big one too, think I'll milk it." He increased the strength of his strokes. Dale groaned, torn between laughter and the indescribable pleasure he was getting from Rick's touch.

"You sadistic bastard," he gasped as the laughter bubbled closer to the surface.

Rick whispered seductively, "Moo for me, baby."

Dale lost it completely. The laughter burst free as he collapsed to the bed. He lay there, shaking, Rick's equally laugh-racked frame draped partially over his own. The bed shook with their mirth, not exactly the way Dale had planned for it to be shaking, but pleasurable just the same, and healing.

Rick rolled slowly to his back with a groan and a long, contented, "Mmm." as Dale followed, moving into his arms. Muscles relaxed and weakened by the laughter, they lay drowsy and acquiescent as sleep began to claim them.

Dale sleepily murmured a plaintive "I'm never gonna get laid" and drifted to sleep.

Rick joined him, a sleepy, yet devilish smile, curving his lips.

A couple of hours later, Dale woke to growing pleasure. His cock was engulfed in hot, wet, velvet heat that stroked and sucked. He groaned and reached down, finding the head of his lover bobbing rhythmically over his groin. He wrapped his fingers in soft, silky hair, petting, encouraging, expressing his appreciation.

Rick hummed, acknowledging Dale's awareness.

Dale's body clenched at the vibration. His buttocks tightened as he mindlessly undulated a counter rhythm. Rick's hand cupped his ball sack, gently massaging, drawing a guttural groan from Dale. When his fingers found that velvety length of skin between balls and pucker, pressing firmly, Dale cried out and released. Powerful spurts of hot, fertile cream flooded Rick's mouth, which he swallowed with pleasure.

Dale finally calmed, his body melting, loose and relaxed. Rick moved up, covering him, finding his mouth, sharing a cum-flavored kiss.

"You didn't get laid, but I hope that helped." Rick whispered.

"Oh yeah, baby, just let me catch my breath and I'll show you how good it feels."

"Uh, uh, that was for you, lover. Just relax and sleep. We've got time, lots of time now, babe. Go to sleep."

Dale's heavy lids fluttered closed as Rick's deep soothing rumble, washed over him. Rick hovered over Dale, softly stroking his hair, content to watch, to be part of the peace that filled his lover. He felt infinitely peaceful and satisfied himself, knowing he was correcting his mistake, heading in the right direction. No matter how much he loved his family, he knew now that Dale was his future. He was ready to accept the consequences, whatever they might be.

The next morning they enjoyed a leisurely breakfast together. Dale noticed that Rick seemed uncommonly subdued. At first he put it down to their continuing recovery, neither of them had coped very well with their separation.

Dale stood and began clearing the table, while Rick finished his coffee. Dumping the dishes into hot soapy water, he returned to Rick. He walked behind him and placing his hands on Rick's shoulders, he began a firm massage. Rick sighed and leaned back, his head against Dale's mid- section. Smiling, Dale continued the massage, leaning down to place a kiss on the top of Rick's head.

"You ok, baby?" he asked.

"Yeah, babe, just a little tired I guess." He took one of Dale's hands, kissing his knuckles, "Listen, I'm going to return the backhoe to mom and dad's and have a talk with them, about us."

Dale's stomach lurched in sympathy. He knew Rick was dreading the upcoming confession and possible confrontation with his parents.

He squeezed Rick's shoulder, "Are you sure you're ready for this?"

Rick nodded, "I don't want to put it off, waiting will just make it harder. Besides, they're gonna wonder why I'm over here all the time." He stood and took Dale's hands in his, "Tell me you love me."

Dale looked steadily into those beautiful, solemn, yet expectant, blue-green eyes, "I love you Rick Hunter. No doubts."

Rick nodded decisively, curtly, as a sheen of tears brightened his eyes. Dale dropped one of his hands, but kept a firm hold of the other. He led him to the living room, leaving Rick in the center of the room with the admonition to stay put. He went to the stereo and pushing a button, selected a cd. He returned to Rick as the music began to flow from the speakers.

"I want you to listen to this song." He held out his arms, "Dance with me."

Rick stepped forward and was enfolded in warmth and comfort. The music was soft and easy. The words telling of a lover's fear of newly discovered love. And though the fear was there, so was the knowledge that everything would be all right as long as they were together.

They swayed slowly, as its mellow sweetness poured over them, the words knifing straight to Rick's soul. He clung to Dale as tears threatened. Dale's arms tightened, holding his man in a warm, secure embrace. Their movements slowed and halted as the music ended.

"It's us isn't it?" Rick murmured.

"To a t, baby, to a t, that's why I wanted you to hear it." Dale again took Rick's hand in his. "I know you're afraid Rick. Afraid of what's going to happen today. Afraid of these feelings we have for each other and where they'll lead us. I am too, but like in the song, we can't go back or undo it. We both know that's no longer an option. I don't think it ever was." He held Rick's gaze with his own, his mossy green eyes, serious and sincere. "What we have is special, meant to be. There are a lot of unknowns in the future but we'll find the strength in each other to face them. Together." He gave Rick a sweet, loving kiss, "I love you, I'm here for you."

Rick took a deep breath and nodded, turning, he walked through the kitchen and out the back door. Dale was surprised when a few moments later he returned, carrying a ringed binder filled with papers.

"I've been carrying this around the last few days, debating on whether or not to ask you to look at it." He handed the binder to Dale, "I'd be honored if you'd read some of it and give me your opinion." He gave Dale a quick kiss. At the doorway he stopped and looked back, "I love you Dale, I'll be back in a little while."

Dale nodded. He sat down on the sofa, listening for the sound of the backhoe. It was fired up and by the sound, he could tell it was on the move.

Curious, he settled back and opened the binder. Inside was a series of short stories. Dale began with the first one and was soon engrossed. He was touched by the writing. The stories were interesting, the characters well drawn. By turns he laughed and cried and was amazed by this outpouring of a talent Rick had apparently kept hidden. He was unaware of the passing time until Rick entered the living room. Dale took one look at his face and stood, going to him, wrapping his arms around him for a hug.

"Tell me, angel." he murmured softly, as he drew back to study Rick as he spoke.

"Mom...she didn't take it too well. She hit me, Dale. Momma's never hit me, not once my whole life." Rick spoke mechanically, remotely, "Dad, he didn't say anything, not one word. After Mom left the room, crying, we just sort of stared at each other for a minute. It was like we were strangers. Finally, I told him if he needed to reach me, I'd be here."

He looked at Dale, his eyes seeming to focus away from some distant point. "See, I told you I'd be back," he said with almost child-like simplicity.

Dale bit his lip, Rick was in shock, "I know you did baby, I'm glad you're home. Let's get some ice for your cheek."

Rick nodded and followed Dale into the kitchen, waiting patiently as he filled an old-fashioned ice bag with cubes from the freezer. Dale kept the bag for occasional headaches, usually brought on by sinus. Keeping his head half frozen was the only way he got relief from headaches that sometimes lasted for several days.

Bag filled, Dale led Rick upstairs. Once in the bedroom, he had him sit on the edge of the bed, so that he could remove his shoes. He urged Rick to lie down and sat down on the edge of the bed beside him. He placed the ice bag on Rick's red and slightly swollen cheek.

"How does that feel, baby? Better?" he asked.

Rick nodded and shivered slightly. Dale reached for a blanket and pulled it over him, tucking it tight. "Close your eyes, love, relax." He tenderly combed Rick's hair back, a slow, soothing act that calmed and reassured both of them. Rick yawned. Dale smiled, "Go to sleep, baby. It'll be all right. Go to sleep." he crooned softly.

"Dale?"

Rick's almost panicked call, brought him instantly alert and to the bed.

"I'm right here, Rick. You ok, babe?"

Dale had held the ice-pack to Rick's cheek for nearly half an hour, as he slept. The place where his mother hit him was reddened, but the swelling seemed to have gone down. He'd left him for a moment, going downstairs to retrieve the binder that contained Rick's stories. Returning to the bedroom, he settled himself comfortably in one of his grandmother's chairs, opening the binder to read and wait for Rick to wake.

"I'm ok, Dale. I was a little out of it when I got here, but I'm ok now." He sat up and sighed, "I'm glad you're here."

"So am I." Dale sat on the bed. They hugged, rocking gently, "I'm sorry Rick, sorry things turned out the way they did."

Rick drew back and nodded, "So am I, but damn it, I'm not going to cry about it." He blinked back the tears that threatened. "This shit has got to stop."

"What shit?" Dale questioned.

"All this emotional upheaval. I haven't cried this much since I was twelve and my dog died. It's not dignified."

Dale snorted, "Since when have you been concerned with dignity?"

"Since right now." Rick retorted. "Lets go out. I'm not going to hang around the house and mope the rest of the day and night. I know, let's go on a date. Dinner and a movie, what do you say?"

"So, you're asking me out?"

"Yes, I am. Will you go out with me, Dale, please?"

Dale felt a shiver of pleasure, "I'd love to go out with you."

Rick gave a whoop and jumped out of bed, his grin at full watt. "We've got plenty of time to get ready. Let's drive into Springfield, I know this little Italian place that has the best manicotti you've ever eaten. Then we'll catch a movie, your choice. Does that sound ok?"

Dale nodded, laughing as Rick grabbed him up in his arms and danced him around the room.

Rick had kept his cheery attitude and made their date a rousing success. Dinner was ambrosial, the movie amusing and their lovemaking on their return home, explosive. Rick's amorous mood had lasted through the night. He kept at Dale constantly, almost desperately it seemed. Dale was certain some of his urgent need had to do with what had happened between him and his parents. He was desperate to be assured that Dale loved him, needed him.

Dale was more than happy to comply, returning Rick's passion with equal fervor. Though concerned with Rick's insecurities, he wasn't about to stop and try to engage him in meaningful conversation. Rick was in rut. Dale reveled in it.

Morning found them sleeping late.

The next couple of days, they worked around the house and outside. Rick was a man who needed to stay busy and did. He did maintenance on the mowers and tiller that were stored in the garage. The grass had gotten tall and he spent some few hours mowing. He took over the care of the ground that had hosted the now defunct poplar grove. He arranged for some soil to be delivered to fill in the holes. With the tiller he worked the ground, blending the new soil with the old. The area was soon prepared and ready.

He and Dale made a trip into the local nursery, where they picked out four, tall, sturdy oak trees and three, showy, scarlet maples. The trees were of a size that they needed to be delivered, Rick helping the nursery man to set them in when they arrived. He and Dale gazed at their new grove with satisfaction. The trees were spaced to allow plenty of room for growth.

"Just think how these will look a few years from now." Dale spoke with satisfaction.

Rick threw an arm around his shoulder and squeezed, "Those maples are going to be something to see this fall, they'll add color the oaks can't. But the oaks... there's something timeless and reassuring about oak trees. They stand so tough and steady, unshakable and constant, as the years pass."

Dale squeezed Rick by means of the arm he'd looped around his waist. "You have a poet's soul, my love. Which reminds me, I want to talk to you about your stories."

"Okay...do I want to hear this?" he asked with some trepidation.

Dale laughed and released him, ducking from under his arm. "Well, I'm not sure." he began walking back to the house, Rick anxiously on his heels.

"What does that mean?" Rick asked suspiciously.

"Maybe we should just forget I brought it up." Dale teased.

"Dale." Rick growled, in warning.

"What?"

"Tell me."

"Make me." Dale threw over his shoulder and sprinted away.

"You little shit." Rick cursed and took off in pursuit.

The two of them ran around the house, Dale dodging Rick's determined pursuit. Dale would have been fine if he hadn't started laughing. He was clearly the faster of the two. He led Rick on, reversing direction, rounding the barn, when his amusement tripped him up. Weakened by laughter, he fell victim to Rick's flying tackle.

They rolled in the soft, fragrant, padding of grass, Rick making sure he came out on top. With Dale pinned beneath him, Rick began a determined tickle attack that had him shrieking and begging for mercy. At last, winded, and satisfied he'd doled out sufficient punishment, Rick ceased. Dale sucked in deep drafts of air. As his breath steadied, he bucked under Rick's imprisoning weight.

"Get off me, you fiend."

Rick declined to comply. "Not until you tell me what you thought about what I wrote."

"Ok, ok. I give." Dale took another deep breath. "You're stories are wonderful. I want to introduce you to my agent and have her read them. Have you ever thought about writing something longer?"

Rick was stunned, he rolled off Dale and collapsed in the grass, "You're serious aren't you? You're not just saying that because we're lovers. You really mean it don't you?"

"I'm serious all right, I wouldn't waste my agent's time, she'd skin me." Dale levered himself up and leaned over Rick. "You have a real talent, Rick, it would be a shame to keep it hidden. You should be published so others can enjoy your writing, not to mention the fact that the money can be damn good."

Rick lay still, watching the clouds move slowly across the sky. Dale lay back next to him.

"What do you say to a trip to New York? I'll call my agent to arrange a meeting. I want her to verify what I think, that you have a lot of raw potential. I'm not saying you'll see a book in print with your name on it in the next few months, but I want you to have the opinion of a professional." Dale explained. "Afterward we can spend a couple of days cruising around the Big Apple. It could be fun. Might be a good thing to just get away for a few days or even a week or two.

Rick remained silent for a moment or two, then sat up. "Lets do it. I've never been to New York, never been to much of anywhere for that matter. I think it's time I expand my horizons." He stood and offered a hand to Dale, pulling him to his feet. "Right this minute though, I feel something else expanding. Let's go back to the house." He nuzzled Dale's neck. "This grass is nice, but it's a little damp. I want you on your back, in our bed, while I make love to you."

Dale shivered with anticipation. He held out his hand, "Come on." he urged. Together they walked, arm in arm, back to the house.

They were just heading up the stairs when they heard a vehicle pull into the driveway. Rick looked out the window by the front door. It was his dad.

"Oh shit," he whispered, his erection deflating.

From his perch two steps up, Dale asked, "Who is it?"

Rick turned a look filled with uncertainty and anxiety in his direction, "It's my dad."

Dale leapt down the stairs, coming to stand at Rick's side, "He's not armed is he?"

"Dale." Rick admonished.

Dale shrugged, "Well, I don't know him, Rick. I'm just being cautious. Where are you going?"

Rick had opened the front door, unlocked the screen and was preparing to step out, "I have to see what he wants, Dale."

Dale frowned, but finally nodded. "Don't go off the porch. I'm staying right here just in case."

Rick gave him a rueful smile, "All right mommy."

He walked out on the porch. By that time, his dad had exited his truck and was now mounting the steps, coming to meet him. He stopped a few feet from Rick and uttered one word.

"Son."

Rick answered with a choked, "Daddy?"

His dad nodded, "Come here, boy."

Rick stepped into his arms.

Dale watched them, his eyes filled with tears of relief and happiness. Rick's dad rocked him as Rick cried, his own eyes bright with tears, a few of which rolled slowly down his tanned, weathered, cheeks.

"I'm sorry son, I'm so sorry." he murmured.

Rick got hold of himself and pulled away, wiping his eyes, "What are you sorry for, Dad? You didn't do anything."

Gerald Hunter shook his head, "I should have defended you. I was just so damned surprised. I never suspected that you had such inclinations, you were always going out with this girl or that one." He heaved a sigh, "I watched for it, I watched your brother too, but I missed it. I didn't know you were like me."

Rick's eyes widened in stunned surprise.

"Can we sit down someplace? We need to have a talk, son."

"Yeah, of course, Dad, come in." He opened the door, letting his dad proceed him. Inside he introduced Dale. "Dad, this is Dale Vaden, my partner."

Dale's nerves were jittery. He gave Rick a sweet, grateful smile and held out his hand, "I'm pleased to meet you, Mr. Hunter." he said firmly.

Rick's dad shook his hand without hesitation. "I'm pleased to meet you, Dale, call me Gerald. I wish we were meeting under easier circumstances, but I hope things will get straightened around eventually." He looked around curiously, "You young men wouldn't happen to have a cup of coffee, would you?"

Rick's grin was beatific, "Dad, you sure came to the right place. Wait till you taste Dale's coffee!"

Dale fixed the coffee and they settled at the kitchen table. Gerald took his first sip, a look of surprise and delight spreading over his face. He gave his son a stern look.

"Don't let him get away from you, son. A man could put up with a lot of aggravation for coffee like this."

Dale grinned and blushed, as Rick and Gerald chuckled at his embarrassment.

Gerald sobered, "Your momma's awful sorry she hit you, son. She cried all night, kept saying how she couldn't believe she did that to her baby."

Rick's throat tightened, unable to speak, he nodded. Dale took his hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Rick grasped his hand firmly, keeping the needed contact. Gerald smiled briefly at their display of comforting unity and affection.

He continued, "She was shocked, Rick. It was like the past had come back to haunt her."

Rick frowned, "What do you mean, Dad?"

"When I was a young man, I discovered I liked not only women, but men as well." He took a deep breath, "I'm bi-sexual, son, just as I suspect you are."

Rick flushed and nodded. It was disconcerting to be `outed' by your own father, especially when he confessed similar inclinations. This was a side of his dad, Rick would never have guessed existed.

"When I was eighteen, I had my first sexual experience with a man. I'd been active with girls and enjoyed the hell out of it, but I still found myself drawn now and then to a man. Not anyone in particular, mind you, just if some good looking guy would catch my eye, I'd wonder what it would be like. I found out. I'm not going into the details, just suffice it to say that sex with women was sweet and hot. Being with a woman made me feel strong and protective, but being with a man was totally different. There's was something wild and primitive about it. It was just pure lust and pleasure with no worries about emotional entanglements."

Gerald wiped at the sweat on his upper lip and grinned, "It's gettin' a little hot in here."

Rick and Dale chuckled, sympathizing with his feelings.

"Anyway," he continued, "After that first time, I felt the itch every few weeks, so I went into Springfield to scratch it. I met your momma when I was 21. We started dating and it wasn't long before I was sure she was the one for me. You see, even though I liked sex with men, I still preferred women. When your mom came along, well, I was sure I could put all that other behind me." He paused, lost momentarily in memories. "Then I met Steve. That man affected me in ways no one ever had before. I was fascinated with him, he was older than me and very experienced, we did things..." He cleared his throat and glanced at his rapt audience, reddening slightly.

"Never mind what we did. What I'm trying to say is, my relationship with Steve began to affect my relationship with your mom. I knew I loved her and didn't want to lose her, so I asked her to marry me. Even after we became engaged, I couldn't break it off with Steve. Your mom began to suspect I was seeing someone and one day she caught us."

"Oh shit," Rick murmured.

"Oh shit, for real." his dad agreed, "Steve was in town and I called your mom to cancel our date that night, telling her I wasn't feeling well. Like the good woman she is, she brought me chicken soup. Steve and I had just finished up our first round and were fresh out of the shower, both wearing only towels. We were headed for the kitchen and a snack when the doorbell rang. I had this sudden, awful premonition, but before I could warn him not to answer it, Steve opened the door and there stood your mom."

Gerald shook his head, the guilt and remorse of that moment still had the power to disturb, even after so many years. "I'll never forget the look on her face when she saw us. I knew then and there, I'd lost her. She didn't say a word, just turned and walked away. I was in a total panic, I fell apart. I'd never told Steve about your mom. He made me tell him everything. Afterward, he shook his head and told me I was a fool. He said it was obvious where my heart was and if I didn't get my head out of my ass, I was going to regret it for the rest of my life."

Tears filled Gerald's eyes, "To this day, I still love that man. Not in the way I love your mom, son," he added as Rick seemed about to protest, "but Steve was a good man, totally unselfish and giving. I never saw him again after that day. I hope and pray he's had a good life, he deserves it. He surely saved mine. I was able to patch things up with your mom and I vowed to her I'd never be unfaithful again. It's a promise I've kept, even though it was damned hard."

He gave both young men an uncompromising look, "That's something you'll find out. The male animal isn't built for fidelity. More than likely, at some point, you'll be tempted to stray, no matter how much you love each other. But take my advice, you'd better think long and hard about what you're putting at risk for a little physical pleasure."

Rick and Dale squirmed like guilty schoolboys under his fierce regard. "We'll remember what you said, Dad," Rick assured him. "So, what happens now? Is Mom prepared to accept Dale?"

Gerald shook his head, "Not yet son, but I'm working on her. She loves you. I know, given time, she'll accept your decision. Like I said, all this just brought back the past. It's quite a blow for a woman to face infidelity from the man she loves, but to face what she did was doubly hard. Your mom has a lot of strength and character, you know that son, and she's fair. She's never had a bad word to say about gay men and relationships. If anyone could have worked up fear and hate on that subject, she certainly had cause to, but she didn't give in to it."

"Give it time, Rick, just give it time." Gerald sighed and pushed his chair back, standing, "So, have you two been making any plans? Dale, I don't even know what you do for a living. Are you going to be able to take good care of my son?" he teased.

Rick grinned as Dale rolled his eyes, "Now I know where Rick gets it from."

They all laughed as they walked out on the front porch. Rick explained to his dad, their plans for the trip to New York and the reason.

Gerald shook his head in mock resignation, "Son you're just one surprise after another. It wouldn't surprise me now if you turned up pregnant. If any man could do it, you could. And, if that happens," he turned a warning eye to Dale, "I'll be down here with a preacher and a shot gun."

He reached out a hand to Dale, who took it, "Oh hell," he muttered, and pulled Dale in for a hug. "Son, you take good care of my boy." He released Dale and drew Rick in, "And you look after this man, I plan to be down here on a regular basis for that coffee, make sure you lay in a good supply."

"I will Dad." Rick replied, happiness squeezing his heart. It was a good feeling.

Gerald walked down the steps and stopped, turning back to look at them. "It's going to be all right boys, you mark my words, it's going to be all right." He made his way to his truck, jumped in and with a wave, headed down the road.

Dale and Rick returned the wave and entered the house. They turned to face each other and came together in a rush, holding each other tight.

Rick laughed, "He's right, you know, it's just like our song, it's gonna be all right."

Dale smiled, "Right now, I feel like the luckiest man alive, except for one thing." he ran a teasing hand over Rick's groin, "I believe you owe me something."

Rick took Dale's hand and led him upstairs, "Come on babe, I never go back on my word. And you know? I feel another bout of, Milk the Cow, coming on."

"Aw, shit." Dale cursed. He pulled at Rick's hand, trying to get away.

Rick kept a firm hold and circled his arm around Dale's waist, leading him into the bedroom, "Come on Bossy, come give daddy some cream."

"Rick!!"

Rick's laughter filled the room as he shut the door behind them.

To be continued....