We often judge our lives by moments of accomplishment. In youth these milestones are easily noted by the age or year of school when things happen. Characters in this story see events that dictate the changes of life through success and through love. For there is no more memorable momnent in life than a first love, the one that will always be remembered and by which all others will be judged.

Chris James

The Delta commuter flight was due to leave Philadelphia at nine in the morning and George managed to get Jessie through the snow clogged streets and there by eight to check in his bags and go through security.

"You have a good flight and give our love to Neil and his mother," George said.

"I will, and thank you for a wonderful Christmas," Jessie said.

"Yes, it's been quite a time, hasn't it?"

"Neil and I will be back at the end of March, I'll miss you both," Jessie said.

"We're looking forward to it," George said. "Now take a deep breath and relax, flying is just like taking the bus, OK?"

"Yeah," Jessie laughed. "I'll be fine."

He gave George a big hug and a kiss, just like the one he'd given his Aunt before they left the house. He walked into the security area and looked back, George waved and they both smiled. Who was he kidding? The idea of flying was scary. God, if only Neil were here.

The security gate required him to empty his pockets and they searched his carry on bag which held little more than his new iPod and a book to read. The attendant checked his ticket and waved him on through, guess he didn't look too threatening.

Twenty minutes later he was onboard the flight and looking out the window at the service crew on the pavement below. At least the jet wasn't tiny, but it still wasn't half full. Philly to Detroit and then off again to Lansing. Two take offs and two landings, Jessie figured he would be an expert before this was all done. Only five hours and he would see Neil. Five hours until he would feel those loving arms around him once again.

His thoughts ran back to the holiday, one he could only share with Neil by phone and internet. He missed being able to touch that soft skin and run his fingers through all that blonde hair. The only passion he had allowed himself was at the keyboard, and the opus he'd written for Neil had grown. The theme had taken on larger proportions, become more complex, and Jessie knew that somehow he needed to write it all down.

It wasn't until late Christmas morning, after the breakfast and the coffee, after the exchange of small gifts, that Jessie remembered the envelope from Tom. He'd rushed upstairs and dug in the closet for his suit coat, pulling the envelope out and sitting on his bed. It was addressed to him at Bradford but there was no name for the return, just an address in New York.

What had Tom given him? Jessie's fingers trembled as he tore off the end of the envelope and pulled out a single typed page. He saw his name typed in the greeting at the top and the body of the letter, but he was drawn to the signature at the bottom. William A. DeMarco ... now who the hell was ... and then Jessie saw the words under the name ... Juilliard School of Music. And he screamed.

Jessie jumped up and ran down the stairs. George was standing in the kitchen door.

"Did you scream?" George asked.

Jessie nodded and thrust the letter at him. "Read it ... please, my hands are shaking."

George pulled out his reading glasses and slid them on his face. He held the paper out and began to read:

Mr. Jessie Reardon,

This is to inform you that you have been selected for placement in this summer's piano workshop at the Julliard School of Music in New York City on the recommendation of Mr. Thomas Boswell of the Bradford Academy.

The workshop will commence on June 18th and end July 29th, student housing will be provided if necessary. This is just a letter of notification, application forms and detailed information will follow within the month.

It is highly unusual for the Julliard to accept a student for this workshop without a prior audition or knowledge of your abilities. But Tom and I have a shared academic background and on his word alone I am willing to accept you into my class.

The workshop focus will be on technique and performance. I have been made aware that you have had little formal training, but in my experience that has never been an obstacle to a fine talent. If you are considering a further degree in music with Julliard I would like to stress that this opportunity will be very important in introducing you to the school and the faculty.

I look forward to your positive response and hope you will make an effort to attend.

Sincerely,

William A. DeMarco

Associate Dean of Music

Julliard School of Music, NYC

George looked up at Jessie and smiled, the boy screamed again.

"Oh My God ... Oh My God," Jessie babbled. "I have to call Neil." And he ran half way back up the stairs before turning back and retrieving the letter from George.

"What was that all about?" Diana asked when George returned to the kitchen.

"Success ... Jessie has been invited to attend a summer workshop at Julliard."

"Really ... that's amazing, Nora works fast," Diana said.

"It was Jessie's music teacher Tom. It seems everyone recognizes his talent. We better enjoy his company while we can, soon he'll be off and running."

Diana reached over and patted George's cheek. "Don't worry dear; he'll always call this home."

George smiled. "I suppose, we might even have fun chasing him around the world."

Diana laughed. "You just let me know, I'll do the packing."

Jessie dialed the phone number in Lansing and it rang four times before Nora picked it up.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Mom."

"Jessie ... Merry Christmas," Nora said.

"And the same to you," Jessie replied. "Is Neil there?"

"He's in the shower, sweetie ... you want me to have him call you back?" Nora said.

"Yes, please," Jessie said.

"I'll do that ... wait, I think he just got out." Jessie heard her cover the phone and yell for Neil to pick up. A short pause and Neil came on the line, and then Jessie heard Nora hang up.

"Hey, baby ... Merry Christmas," Neil said.

"Thanks love ... are you sitting down?" Jessie asked.

"Oh ... what's up?"

"Tom sent my name to Julliard, they want me in a piano workshop this summer," Jessie said.

"Oh My God ... that's wonderful ... amazing, I know you're happy," Neil replied.

"Hmm, yeah ... happy, but I can't be in New York for half the summer ... I don't want to be away from you that long."

Neil was silent for a minute and then sighed. "Baby, I can't come between you and what you need ... Julliard ... wow, you have to do it."

"I know ... I just wish ... oh, never mind."

"Jessie ... don't go there. You'll be in that workshop ... Oh Jeez, I just had an idea ... can I call you back?"

"Yeah sure ... " Jessie said.

"I love you, baby ... we are gonna make this happen, OK?"

"Call me back ... soon. I love you too."

"A hour tops ... I need to talk with my Grandfather ... Bye."

New York ... Julliard, the thought kept rolling around in his head. But Jessie knew he would be miserable if Neil wasn't there. It was the greatest opportunity he'd ever had to further his goals in music ... and now he only felt miserable.

He stared at the phone for fifteen minutes, willing it to ring. Everything in life revolved around Neil and his music, they seemed bound together ... inseparable. And then the phone rang.

"Hello?" Jessie said.

"My turn ... are you sitting down?" Neil asked.

"No," Jessie laughed, but he didn't feel any joy.

"Gramps has an apartment in New York ... it's ours for the summer."

"Really! You'll come with me?" Jessie asked.

"I have to ... I'm your muse, remember?" Neil said.

"Oh, Neil ... " And Jessie began to cry.

"Oh no ... baby, don't cry ... I couldn't let you face that alone, you'll never be alone again," Neil said.

"Thank you," Jessie said, wiping his face and trying to smile. "I can't do this without you ... I just can't."

"Three days, baby ... you'll be here then and we'll make plans," Neil said.

"God, I love you," Jessie said.

"And I love you ... so, how was your Christmas?" Neil asked.

The jet pulled back from the gate and ten minutes later they were speeding down the runway. Jessie watched out the window, fascinated and yet terrified as the snow covered landscape fell away beneath them. He felt like he was floating as they lifted off. Here I come lover, Jessie thought.

His body had tortured him several times in the past week, usually in bed at night. At one point he'd had such a stiff erection that he thought it would break off. But he'd promised himself to save it all for Neil, and there were some pretty cold showers on that account.

Neil had suffered similar urges; being alone in bed at night seemed to bring on the worst of them. His mind conjured up all the images and feelings he shared with Jessie until his cock was so swollen if felt like bursting. He couldn't touch it, he didn't want to. But he had several orgasms in his sleep; the dreams just wouldn't go away.

The phone call from Jessie had done it, New York featured prominently in his dreams. He'd been eleven the last time he'd seen his Grandfather's apartment, eighth floor, a view of Central Park. He could imagine himself standing before that huge window and staring out, the city at night, Jessie in his arms. They would both be eighteen and free to wander the city on their own; this would be an awesome summer.

There was so much they needed to discuss ... and then the moment arrived. Neil found himself standing in Capital City Airport waiting for the door to open. He had to smile, wondering if Jessie had been surprised that the seat had been in first class. But that meant he would be one of the first off the plane ... and the ramp door opened.

The boy who walked through that door took Neil's breath away. The long dark hair tumbling to Jessie's shoulders, the pensive look upon his face and then the smile when they made eye contact. No wonder he loved this boy, Jessie was the most desirable creature he'd ever met.

They came together, the hug warm and full of emotion.

"God, it's so good to see you," Jessie whispered in his ear and Neil grinned.

"I've been counting the hours," Neil replied. "Couldn't face the new year without you."

They stood by the Delta baggage carousel, touching, sharing the warm feelings. Neil couldn't wait to get Jessie home.

"Have a good flight?" Neil asked.

"Yeah, they sat me up front, I was like the only one up there ... wonder why?"

Neil almost laughed. "You were in first class, silly boy ... Mom wouldn't have it any other way."

"Oh, I thought there was something special about the way they treated me ... that was cool. I liked the takeoffs, not sure I'll ever get used to landing, I thought the plane was going to shake itself apart."

"Naw, it's all good. Ah, here come the bags," Neil said.

Jessie had two and they rolled them out towards the curb where a car was waiting.

"You have a chauffeur?" Jessie asked.

"My Grandfather's driver, I don't know my way around town very well," Neil replied.

The driver opened the trunk and placed the bags inside.

"Freddy, this is Jessie," Neil said.

"Hello, young man ... are you ready to return home?" Freddy asked.

"Yes, do we need to make any stops?" Neil asked.

"I don't need anything," Jessie said, but he gave Neil a devilish look.

"Yes, Freddy ... home if you please," Neil said.

The ride through Lansing revealed that the town wasn't a very large city despite being the state capital. The snow here seemed just as deep as what Jessie had left behind in Philadelphia, and yet the streets seemed clear of the debris. Jessie sat close to Neil and they held hands, it was still too public for anything else. Twenty minutes later they pulled up the drive and Jessie smiled.

"Nice mansion," He said.

"Yeah, it is kinda large, but that makes it easier for a little privacy. I pretty much do what I want here and Freddy is available to take us around," Neil said. "Oh, wait until you meet Consuelo, she's the housekeeper and a primo cook."

"Hmm, yeah ... I could do with a sandwich," Jessie said.

Neil smiled. "All set, I figured you might be hungry."

Freddy took care of the bags as Neil led Jessie into the house and straight on back to the kitchen.

"Consuelo, this is Jessie," Neil said.

She smiled. "So glad you could come, Neil has been missing you something terrible."

Neil grinned. "She knows ... they all know, not like I could keep you a secret."

"Thank you, Consuelo," Jessie said.

"Come, you boys sit down and I will bring the food," Consuelo said.

They settled themselves at the kitchen table and Consuelo served up a rich tortilla soup laden with beans and spicy vegetables, but Jessie was enamored of the warm corn bread. He had a taste for unusual food, something he was pleased to indulge with Neil whenever possible.

Nora found them at the table and Jessie rose to share hugs and kisses.

"Sit, finish your food," Nora said, taking an empty seat. "So how are your aunt and uncle?"

"Just fine, they send their love," Jessie said, and then he had to smile. "Uncle George told me to thank you for the offer you made for the summer, like I could ever forget to do that."

Nora patted his hand. "We'll have lots of time to talk about that. Ever since you called about that offer from Julliard Neil has been climbing the walls waiting for you to get here."

Jessie smiled. "I understand the feeling, I'm glad to be here."

"You boys finish up; Neil will show you around the house. I have some errands to run and I'll see you both at dinner," Nora said as she got up to leave. "Maybe you'd like some time alone?"

Neil nodded. "Yeah ... we'll take care of that too."

Jessie followed Neil back into the front hall. "That's Grandpa's study, that way to the living room and over there is the music room," He said.

"Music room?" Jessie asked.

"Yeah, that fancy piano Mom has used to live in there, now there's just a rental she got for you to use."

"Mom rented a piano? For just a week?"

"Sure, baby ... everyone knows how important your music is ... come on, I'll show you."

`The rental' piano turned out to be a brand new Steinway concert grand, sitting there with the lid propped up and looking amazing. Jessie knew how expensive they were, Nora was over the top with this, and he was just beginning to understand that's how she worked. He pulled out the piano bench and sat down.

"May I play ... will it disturb anyone?" Jessie asked.

"No ... go ahead," Neil said.

"The opus I wrote is bigger now, I had more thoughts last week ... I think it may end up being part of a symphony. Well, maybe, I don't know how to write music very well."

"You'll learn ... this is all just part of the beginning, isn't it?" Neil asked.

"Yes ... I still have years of work ahead."

Neil smiled. "Go for it, baby ... I'll be there with you."

And Jessie began to play that familiar tune. But even as Neil listened he could hear the changes, the evolution of the piece made it sound bigger, grander. Jessie was so involved in the music that he didn't hear the door open or see the two gentlemen that walked into the room.

For the next ten minutes Jessie played on, alternately staring at Neil or playing with his eyes closed ... his music was all about the feelings it gave him. And when he finished he smiled and Neil looked over at the door, nodding his head.

"That was very good," Robert Elkins said.

"Jessie, this is my Grandfather," Neil said.

Jessie stood, and walked over to shake the man's hand. "Nice to meet you, sir ... thanks for inviting me here."

"You're most welcome. Boys, this is a friend of mine from New York. Wolfgang, this is my grandson Neil and his friend Jessie."

"You play quite well, young man," Wolfgang said, his German accent quite pronounced. "May I?" He sat down at the piano. "I would ask you, why use this chord progression?" And with that he played several chords in a row.

Jessie smiled. "I wanted the measure to end in the minor chord as a contrast for the four single notes that follow ... no other reason."

"I am not critical, it is unusual, but I understand your thoughts. Is this part of a larger piece?" Wolfgang asked.

"It will be ... probably after someone teaches me how to compose and write it out," Jessie said.

"You have no formal training?"

"Not yet, I took some lessons, but that just taught me fingering and little else. This piece is just something that's been living in my head," Jessie said.

"It could become a grand piece," Wolfgang said, and then he began to play Jessie's music from memory. His fingers flew, adding embellishment to the chords and notes as if there were dozens of parts all playing at one time. Jessie stood there stunned and Neil looked up at the smile on his grandfather's face. Wolfgang was no ordinary `friend,' he should have known, this was so much like his grandfather.

Wolfgang stopped suddenly. "This is a nice bit of work; there is so much you can do with it ... keep after it."

"Who are you?" Jessie asked.

Neil's grandfather laughed. "Jessie, this is Wolfgang Von Scholtz, he's the assistant director of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra these days, but years ago when we met he was their composer in residence, and a damn fine pianist ... those were the days, right Wolfey?"

"Robert was so kind as to take this young German pianist under his wing; I was such a hick, is that how you say it?"

"You were never a hick, just a grand gentleman, one of Europe's finest," Robert said.

Wolfgang bowed his head. "I thank you for that. So, Jessie what are your musical plans?"

"I have an invitation from William DeMarco to attend a Julliard workshop this summer," Jessie said.

"Doctor Billy ... a fine musician, what a wonderful place to start," Wolfgang said. "He may find this piece of yours quite interesting, he is quite an accomplished composer in the modern style. But his piano classes are quite technical, something you must work on. I watched you play; your expression is all emotion. But to compose it is sometimes better to write with emotion and play with passion, they are quite different attributes."

Wolfgang laughed. "I apologize, my statement is not meant to confuse. You are familiar with Beethoven no doubt, let me play you something?"

Wolfgang turned to the keyboard. "Sonata number fourteen C-sharp minor, probably his most recognized." And with that he began to play the familiar Moonlight Sonata.

Jessie stood back and watched the hands as they caressed the keys; he knew what Wolfgang was feeling ... the sonata was emotionally powerful. And then it stopped.

"Beethoven was a master of tonality. While we view his predecessors Mozart and Haydn as masters of precision and style, Beethoven was the more passionate. His sonatas poured out that emotion, tone poems some have called his work; they access the human spirit quite directly.

"But to give the work justice it must be played with passion and precision, let me hear you play it," He asked.

Jessie sat down and took a deep breath, placing himself in the proper frame of mind. And then he closed his eyes and began to play. Wolfgang smiled, taking in the composure, the closed eyes and the sure yet gentle touch of the hands. He looked over at Robert and nodded, this boy was destined for something wonderful.

Jessie stopped after a few minutes and looked up. "What did you hear?" He asked Wolfgang.

"I heard Beethoven well played, what I saw was more important. You have a level of focus, the passion I spoke of earlier, that bodes well for the future. I would love to see you enter Julliard to complete your degree. Billy will give you some focus this next summer, and after you enter the school for your undergraduate work I would like to work with you in some capacity."

Jessie smiled. "I would like that very much."

"To enlarge your ability on the instrument there will be hours of technique and study. To become a composer you will need all of that and more, you will also need to study music theory. It will be like learning the language of the composer, and from this you will learn to write music." Wolfgang chuckled. "I am still learning, for often the students bring me the freshest ideas ... just like you have."

"Are you composing now? Does the orchestra let you perform your work?" Jessie asked.

"We have, but audiences love to hear the classics, most of our new work is presented in workshops amidst peers," Wolfgang said. "Someday you will get your chance to play with an orchestra, and most of the music will be classical and old, but you will play for the chance to perform. Have patience, the music has been with us for centuries, your contribution is just beginning."

"Thank you," Jessie said.

"I will see more of you both once you come to the city; it will be my pleasure to show you and Neil around," Wolfgang said.

"I'd like that," Jessie said.

"So I must go and freshen up before dinner," Wolfgang said.

"Yes, I could use a nap as well," Robert said.

Wolfgang laughed. "Age has caught up to us both it seems. I will see you gentlemen later." He shook hands with Neil and then Jessie. "Perhaps we might play again later."

"Yes, that would be fun," Jessie said. He watched Robert and Wolfgang leave, and then he collapsed in a chair. "God ... that was amazing," He said.

Neil took Jessie in his arms and smiled. "You're amazing ... even Wolfgang sees that."

"Is he gay do you think?" Jessie asked.

"Hmm ... don't know, suppose I could ask Mom. Why does it matter?"

"His pleasure to show us around the city ... if he were gay that would take on a whole new meaning," Jessie said.

"Oh ... yeah, it would," Neil said.

"Shall we nap too?" Jessie asked. "Well, at least lie down together."

"Oh yeah ... let me show you our bedroom," Neil said.

The tall windows allowed a view of the vast acreage behind the house, now covered in a blanket of white. But the sunlight lit the room and made it bright and cheerful.

"I ought to shower before we crawl in bed," Jessie said.

"Then we'll shower together, dinner isn't until six, we have lots of time," Neil relied.

The bathroom was elegant, the shower enclosure seemed huge. Neil opened the glass door and turned on the water as Jessie began to undress.

"How like my Grandfather to sneak in some music expert on us ... sorry for the surprise, but he seems to like you," Neil said, removing his own clothes.

"It was quite a shock, but kinda sweet of him to do that," Jessie replied.

"Yeah, I told you, he knows tons of people ... and I guess some of them in the music business."

They stepped in the shower and Jessie laughed. "What's all this?"

"I didn't remember what kind of soap and shampoo you liked so I got a bit of everything," Neil said. "But watch this, I like this part best."

And with that he turned a valve on the wall and water sprayed at them from every direction. Jessie giggled as they moved into the spray. Neil moved closer and they kissed, hands grasping and clutching at one another.

"God, I missed doing that," Neil said, nibbling on Jessie's neck.

"Wash first, then we'll explore." Jessie laughed.

"Oh, you really know how to spoil my fun," Neil said, but he was smiling.

They were both hard as stone by the time the shower ended, and Neil pulled Jessie by the arm until they fell on the bed. Neil rolled on his back and pulled Jessie on top.

"What do you want from me, baby," Neil asked.

Jessie smiled. "It's been over a week, I want everything."

"OK, everything coming up."

Christmas for Pat and Mike was a whirl of old and new. The day Mike got out of school they left for New York to see the bright seasonal lights in the big city. Mike had never been there before; Pat was there to visit old friends and show off his new love.

They were going to stay with Marty Kline, one of Pat's old business partners and a man who could appreciate the nature of love between a man and boy. His Manhattan apartment was almost in the clouds and was always overrun with delightful young things. Pat had been one of those young men at one point in life; Marty would always be close because of that.

Mike was in awe of the city and Pat wanted to show him every bit of it he could, they had only planned to return home for the New Year. Marty was gracious, his eyes dancing in appraisal of the cute young boy at Pat's side.

"So this is Mikey ... so nice to meet you, my dear ... I have a room saved just for you."

The suite was grand, the view spectacular, and Mike was amused at the three young boys running around half naked. They flirted unmercifully with Marty and gave Mike the eye.

"Who's the cutie?" They all wanted to know.

"Off limits, that's Pat's squeeze ... no touching, OK?" Marty commanded.

The three nodded, it was obvious who was captain of this ship. But even if he hadn't been with Pat Mike wouldn't have been interested, he wasn't into kids, and these were barely pubescent he figured. They took their bags to the room and Pat shut the door.

"God, he likes them young," Mike said.

"He finds them on the street, Mike. Some parents just won't raise a gay kid; they throw them out with the garbage. But Marty gets them medical treatment and feeds them, and if they sleep with him that has to be their choice," Pat said.

"That's fucked up ... they're just kids."

"I think if Marty didn't take them in they'd die out there on the streets or face horrible abuse. He won't ever hurt them, it's not his nature. I don't think the age matters to him, their safety and well being come first."

"Saint Marty, huh?" Mike laughed.

"Not really, he just feels a need to do something while so many do nothing," Pat said.

Mike smiled and put his arms around Pat's neck. "You did something for a lonely boy." And then he giggled. "Sorry, there's already Saint Patrick."

Pat smiled. "I'm just a humble monk by comparison. You hungry?"

"I'm always hungry ... Oh, you mean food ... yeah, we could eat," Mike laughed.

They grabbed a cab in front of the building since Pat explained that once he'd parked the car it wouldn't leave the garage until they drove home. Domellie's Delicatessen was the first place Pat wanted to visit; their old world cooking was something he'd missed.

Perogies and red cabbage, sausage and dumplings ... food for the gods, and Mike seemed to agree. They walked over five blocks to look at Times Square and see what was set up for tomorrow evening's festivities. Pat wasn't sure he wanted to stand in the cold just to watch the ball drop and endure the crowd; Mike had only seen the event on television. They caught a cab on Forty-second and headed back to Marty's place as the first snow flakes began to fall.

The apartment smelled of pot smoke, the three boys were stoned and lying naked on the couch ... Marty was nowhere in sight.

"Where did Marty go?" Pat asked. "Jeffrey, isn't it?"

"He had a date, went to some party," Jeffrey responded, and then he giggled. "We decided to have our own little party."

"So I see," Pat said.

"You guys wanna join us?" The little twelve year old named Paul asked.

"Nope, I already have a party of my own planned," Pat said. He left the room with a smile on his face.

Jeffrey laughed and looked at Mike. "Lucky bastard."

Mike smiled. "I think so ... but you guys have each other."

"True," Jeffrey said. "I just like playing with the big boys, they know so much more."

"Besides, who likes getting fucked all the time?" Paul said.

"I do," Mike laughed. "Don't you guys share things?"

"Jeffy likes to share his cock with my butt," The eleven year old named Adam said.

"Soon as you get one I'll be glad to give you my ass," Jeffrey said.

"Just because he isn't as big as you doesn't mean he can't enjoy the ride." Mike looked from cock to cock, pretty sure that only Jeffrey was able to produce cum. "You guys need to swap around," Mike said.

"Maybe you could give us some coaching," Adam said.

Mike laughed. "Not gonna happen, you'll figure it out. See ya."

He found Pat in the bedroom unpacking some clothes. "Those kids are too much," Mike said.

"Yeah, boys like that start off thinking about sex much too young. If they're out on the streets they get abused, trading sex for food is a rotten deal. And I don't approve of Marty allowing them to get high in his apartment, he's asking for trouble," Pat said.

Mike smiled. "You've been a very good boy about that ... maybe I ought to reward you?"

"Oh, I like the sound of that," Pat laughed.

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Steve had spent a fairly miserable Christmas with his mother; the rest of the family was off in distant places, coming home was not an option. But because his mother was in the middle of a huge design project for some wealthy clients Steve was pretty much on his own.

They went out for Christmas dinner at a fancy restaurant; his mother hadn't cooked in years. But Steve was glum and finally gave up trying to hide the reason.

"I'm in love, Mom ... and here it is Christmas and I miss him."

"Him ... ? Oh, honey ... are you sure?"

"Yeah, Mom ... we've talked about this before."

"I remember, Steve, but you were only twelve when you had those feelings. I thought you'd grown out of them."

Steve smiled. "No, if anything I've grown into them. I didn't know sh ... um ... I didn't understand anything back then, now I do."

His mother smiled. "So you've decided you're gay ... that's a mighty big step. So who is the lucky guy?"

"His name is Wayne, we all call him Red because of all the red hair and ... well, he looks like a frickin strawberry when he gets embarrassed, it's so cute."

"So he goes to school with you?" She asked.

"Yeah, he's a junior ... that means two years older than me, does that bother you?" Steve asked.

She shook her head. "No, just as long as he's responsible. Do you get my meaning?"

"Jeez, Mom ... he's very responsible, I'm still a virgin. That's what you want to hear, isn't it?"

"Yes ... I suppose. I don't have any experience with this, honey ... forgive me."

Steve laughed. "And I have almost no experience, what a pair we make. Look, I know you're busy ... I want to go back and see Red, I want to spend the New Year with him."

"I'm sorry ... I have been ignoring you. Can you do that, does he live at home?"

"His mom is nice, she lets me stay there on weekends ... can I go?" Steve asked.

"In love, huh?" She said, and then sighed. "I remember what that was like, of course you can go."

Steve almost leapt across the table in his hurry to give her a hug. "Thank you ... I love you too."

"Just one thing, if you guys make any New Year's resolutions try to keep things safe and sound. I have to trust you, honey ... we've only got each other," She said.

"I don't know if I can talk to my mother about what we do, but we're committed to each other ... that's safe," Steve said. "Honest, I wanted to change ... uh ... things and feel grown up, but Red won't let me. I love him enough to respect that, he won't ever hurt me."

"Then you'll have to bring him home some day, he sounds exceptionally smart."

"When can I get a flight?" Steve asked. "I know he'll come get me at the airport."

"I'll call and make reservations when we get home, OK?"

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

New Year's Eve found Neil and Jessie, Pat and Mike and now even little Stevie in the arms of the ones they loved. And as the snow fell quietly around them, the New Year began at the stroke of midnight ... but they were all engaged with something else.

To each of these special couples, the act of love seemed the perfect way to begin the year ahead. For Jessie, as he knelt between Neil's legs and fed his lover every inch he had, it was about giving. Neil was more dominant in bed, but he needed to feel connected to Jessie like this.

Mike would always remember the time Pat took his virginity, and he loved to play that moment out time and time again. Pleasing his man would always be a two way street, for the giving was just as sweet as the taking. By lying there looking up at Pat's face, Mike could share the giving, it was all he ever wanted to do.

And in tiny little Littleton, while a new blanket of snow covered the town, Red gazed up in adoration as Steve gave of himself in the only way he could. They had all the time in the world to reverse the roles ... and boy, wasn't it fun trying to get there. Red could only admire the little man who worked so hard to please; Steve could cum three times in a row. No one had ever been that lusty with him in bed, and Red could only gasp and moan as the boy's sweat fell on his chest.

So when school began a week later there were a lot of smiling faces sitting in classrooms across the Bradford campus. The memories would have to survive for months through the dark cold nights and brisk days of academic excellence demanded of each boy.

But as the boys sat at the same table for lunch they soon discovered that the example they set had not gone unnoticed, for now there were twelve. Somehow the chill of winter had caused two young boys to quietly huddle in the solitude of their dorm room and discover one another. Steve had been the first to recognize that what they shared was deeper than mere friendship.

"Brent ... Tyrone, these are my friends," Steve said as the two new boys joined the table.

Steve had seen them looking at one another in the showers. They had been roomies all last semester and Tyrone had become a curiosity as the only black boy in the freshman class. Not that African-American students were that unusual at Bradford, there were three others at the moment. But Tyrone was light skinned with blue eyes, and without a doubt the most beautiful boy on the freshman dorm.

That alone had attracted Steve's attention, as did his roomie. Brent was a soft spoken boy from Alabama and teaming him up with Tyrone shocked a few of the boys on the dorm. But Brent didn't have a prejudiced bone in his body and the only shock Steve got was when he figured out that the boys were lovers.

And so breaking a few little rules, Steve slid in their room after lights out and confronted them with what he knew. Both boys knew Steve, and knew he was in love with the red headed sophomore.

"Look, I get what you guys share, you can trust me," Steve began. "I just don't want Tom to find out and think you guys are in here having sex all night long. I think it's cool, and someday maybe you'll feel comfortable coming out about it."

"I could handle that, I don't think Brent is ready quite yet," Tyrone said.

"Brent?" Steve said.

"I ... I don't want anyone to know. I got shit for this stuff before at home," Brent said.

"OK, then just be careful. But no one here will hassle you about being gay, I thought the same thing," Steve said.

"Neither of us is out, Steve ... Brent isn't even comfortable with the gay thing," Tyrone said, and then he smiled. "But that doesn't apply to what we do in private."

"Ty ... hush," Brent said.

"Guys, I don't want to know the details ... if it helps, then technically I'm still a virgin. I don't want to be but my body isn't ready for that yet."

"Wow ... that was honest," Brent said.

Steve smiled. "I just don't want either of you getting hurt thinking you ought to do something you're not ready to handle."

"Neither of us is a virgin ... anymore," Tyrone said.

Brent groaned and covered his face with his hands. Steve laughed at the reaction.

"Look, no one is keeping score. Is this more than fooling around?" Steve asked.

"You asking if I love him?" Tyrone asked. "I don't know the answer to that one yet, he doesn't either. But the emotion is there, we both feel it." He looked over at Brent. "I have to say this, don't be mad, OK?" Brent nodded.

"Brent is very talented ... it takes him forever to get off. He can ride my ass for an hour until I'm over the edge, you know what I mean?"

Steve shook his head. "No ... but I wish I did."

Tyrone smiled. "You will ... it's worth waiting for. But Brent told me he fooled around at home; he was just being honest with his roomie. So I seduced him and became his first fuck, now he's got it bad for me."

Steve laughed. "I've seen him in the showers ... I'd say you have it bad for him, he's big enough."

"Oh Jeez, you don't have to talk about me," Brent said.

"Brent, don't get embarrassed, everyone know you have, uh ... talent," Steve said. "I'd say Tyrone is a very lucky guy."

"Uh ... thanks," Brent said. "So all you guys sit together for lunch."

"Yeah, you can join us if you want," Steve said.

"I dunno ... that sorta makes a statement, what do you think Ty?"

"We will ... when you're ready, OK?" Tyrone said.

And a month later they sat down and Steve introduced them around the table. Everyone already knew their names but this was a formality, now they were twelve. And that brought Neil's mind back to the GSA, it was time to begin. The National Day of Silence was just a month away; it would be incredible if they got the whole school to participate. But first he had a very important day to celebrate.

To Jessie, turning eighteen was a defining moment in life. For although his aunt and uncle always recognized the moment, his family had never done much of anything. But now Neil was in his life and as expected Jessie laughed when he returned to his dorm room after a shower and found it filled with balloons. It was only the beginning.

Nora took them to dinner and the restaurant provided a birthday cake.

"We'll get to celebrate for real this weekend, sweetie," Nora said.

"No, Mom ... this is enough," Jessie replied.

"Too late, the arrangements are already made," She said.

And when Saturday came Jessie found himself in a suit sitting in a corner of the Endive Restaurant surrounded by a string quartet and all the loving attention Neil could provide. Needless to say he wasn't at all surprised when Neil escorted him to a suite at the Thayer, it was a blissful night. In only a few short months Neil would turn eighteen, life would be equal once again.

Jessie was beside him when Neil knocked on Tom's door to discuss their plans; it was only fair that they start here. Tom welcomed them in and listened to their proposal with a smile. Gay activism was something he admired; forming a GSA at a gay friendly school would not cause issues. He even went with them when they took the proposal to Dr. Thorne.

"So we have twelve students that recognize their difference," Thorne said, and then he smiled. "How wonderful."

Neil explained the national organization that was now spread across the country in over four thousands schools. Bradford was not a troubled school where the GSA was encouraged to make a difference. But Neil thought having an outstanding organization at Bradford would receive national recognition. He knew the students of the school would be supportive, and Thorne agreed.

"You must remember the nature of our commitment to education, and the reasoning behind the Society of Friends," Dr. Thorne said. "The example you set for others is the most responsible means of showing your commitment to these ideals. I will support your goals if they stay focused on learning and sharing amongst all the students here, I am not in favor of exclusive clubs."

"Yes sir, that's exactly the intention. We have the most vocal collection of students in the state, I'm sure of that. The very idea of a National Day of Silence is non-violent and a means of making others aware of the issues, I think the Friends would be very proud of us for participating."

Thorne turned to Tom and smiled. "You know he has a point, this is a very positive means of disseminating the message. I feel we should offer this Day of Silence to the Meeting, they might wish to participate."

"Yes, I agree," Tom said. And thus the Bradford Gay/Straight Alliance was born, they would observe April seventeenth with silence. The group held meetings on Thursday afternoons, and the first order of business was to get in touch with the national organization, right after they elected Barry as president. As George had mentioned, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network was the parent group for the GSA, they wrote to them first.

Spring Break started the last week of March, a week where Jessie stayed with Neil and Steve with Red. All too soon the semester would end and they all had plans to make for the summer. For Alan and his senior Brian it was a long week of wondering what would happen to their relationship after graduation. They had to accept that the distance between them would end what they had as lovers, but it would never end the friendship.

It was also a week of revelation and triumph for Steve; he now felt he was ready for the big event with Red. And as before there was pain when he sat down on Red's cock, but by then it was a done deal and Steve relaxed.

As with any boy so deeply in love with his mate, the pain soon turned to pleasure and with patience Red soon found himself in awe of the feelings he could plainly see expressed on Steve's face. Steve wept with the joy of their success and groaned when Red gushed inside of him. The moment was so spectacular, the feelings so overwhelming that Steve ejaculated in response, another first.

Like many of the boys who went home for the break, Brent and Tyrone missed one another, and that gave them each time to think. It was no surprise to Steve when the two roomies walked over and knocked on Tom's door, it was time to share what was now a love affair.

The boys talked amongst their friends and as the first week of April began they spoke of the coming Day of Silence. Thorne had indeed brought the subject up at the community meeting house, and the Friends decided to hold an inquiry which meant the elders would study the issue. But it was Barry who felt inspired to stand up at a morning meeting and share his thoughts with the student body.

"Today my thoughts turn to May twenty-third, the day of my graduation. Bradford has been a kind place, a welcome place in my life. For here I have found acceptance as a person and a student amidst a sea of friendly faces. If only all of life's lessons could be so easily won, but we all know this place is the exception because we are exceptional people.

"And as my thoughts turn towards the greater goal of college and the success of life beyond the academic sphere, I want to leave a legacy for those left behind in the struggle. You have all heard about the formation of the Gay Straight Alliance, and I have heard many comments of support and concern from my fellow students.

"As we have been taught in class, the best way to achieve greatness is to embrace the unknown. Being a gay man has taught me that my goals and objectives are no different than the majority of you sitting here today. We each seek knowledge and respect in our lives, whether we are gay, straight or bisexual.

"A very learned Friend named George Fox said `Let your lives speak,' we see that truth every day in the leadership and faculty of this school. It's something we all need to embrace and remember. Beyond these walls and outside that front gate stands the world which needs to see us as the embodiment of those words. For only by example will we serve the true meaning of what we have been taught here. Thank you." And Barry sat down.

As was the tradition of meeting no one applauded, there was only silence and quiet contemplation. And then Dr. Thorne stood up and walked across the open square to where Barry sat and held out his hand. Barry stood and Thorne hugged the boy, a gesture no one had ever seen him perform with a student. It brought smiles around the room and the meeting broke up.

Barry was the hero of the moment for the students of the GSA, and they could no longer count themselves as just the twelve, it didn't seem right anymore. Their Thursday afternoon meeting was now held in the cafeteria to accommodate the sixty some boys who attended.

Neil and Jessie could sit back and watch the younger students take a role in the organization. Steve had been elected vice-president, Tyrone given the role of secretary. The straight and bisexual students had talked about and agreed that the gay students should take the lead during the beginning phases of the GSA. Barry accepted that idea and did all he could to make sure the others didn't feel left out of the decision making process.

The GLSEN organization sent them educational materials and posters for the Day of Silence. The school rules did not allow buttons for any one specific cause, it wasn't needed. As the day approached the GSA passed out stickers for the students to wear, and each one said only `Let your lives speak.' It was all that needed to be said.

The Day of Silence lasted the entire school day, from the morning meeting on the school was silent except for the teachers. But in every class the subject matter was very different; it was all about the contributions of gay men and lesbian women in history. And then at three-thirty the students gathered on the quad in the bright spring sunshine and the members of the GSA cheered.

And four weeks later the school went into finals week, this time inspired by the vision of summer vacation. It would be a summer of fun and frolic for some, but for Jessie it would be a summer of revelation. Neil had assured him that his Grandfather's apartment would fulfill their every need.

The exams were tough and yet all the students seemed fully prepared. Barry went around and kissed every boy he could find in the GSA, he was off on a morning flight. Steve and Red shared smiles and a plan to spend the entire summer together. Brent and Tyrone were heading back south and at least lived in adjoining states. Alan kissed his senior good bye and wept in Red's arms, there was no solution to his problem.

Neil and Jessie drove south towards Philly with just a few weeks to gather themselves together for the trek to New York. Nora would join them for Neil's eighteenth birthday; it would be a time for many celebrations. Bradford Academy had forged many smart young men and several strong relationships, but none of them would endure like Neil and Jessie.


On to Chapter Ten

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"Seasons for the Boy" Copyright © 13 April 2009 Chris James. All rights reserved.
    This work may not be duplicated in any form (physical, electronic, audio, or otherwise) without the author's written permission. All applicable copyright laws apply. All individuals depicted are fictional with any resemblance to real persons being purely coincidental.

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