Gay Devotion
Chapter three
Mark saw Andy in the cafeteria as he was purchasing his sandwiches for lunch and joined him at his table. He noticed that he already had company and was about to sit at another table when Andy saw him and beckoned to him. Mark sat down.
"Meet Chris Fenton, my classmate, our baritone. He and I sing one of the duets in the concert next Saturday. I was telling Chris what a great accompanist you are and he wanted to meet you."
Chris was not as tall as Andy, more stocky, quite muscular and with a mop of auburn hair which needed a trim. He greeted Mark with a smile.
"I would appreciate it if you could be my accompanist at times, for your usual fee of course."
"You mean to pay me?" There was surprise in Mark's voice.
"So he should. He is filthy rich," said Andy.
"Naturally, from what Andy tells me, you perform like a professional."
"Of course it will mean you will have to entertain the audience between brackets of songs, with your own contribution," said Andy.
"Now where am I going to find the time and a piano to practise?"
"It could be arranged," Andy replied.
"How, when?"
"At my home. I'm sure Chris would also find it more convenient and opportune," he added with a smirk.
Chris grinned. "We are not all randy like you. You will be giving Mark the wrong impressions."
It began to dawn on Mark that Andy and Chris knew each other very well indeed and that Chris had more than singing in mind. He ignored Andy's comment. "I would be pleased to help, just let me know when I can help."
"I was hoping to see you," said Andy. "The performers in the concert can invite friends to an after show stage supper, would you and Aaron be my guests?"
"I accept, it would be an enjoyable ending to what is likely to be a great show. I am sure Aaron will also accept."
Andy hesitated before he continued.
"I am always on a high after performing and hate going home alone to an empty house, Mum and Dad are away, so would you and Aaron both stay over?"
Before Mark could reply Chris butted in. "Of course this dirty old man just wants an opportunity to sleep with you."
Andy blushed. "It is just your sex dominated mind that would think that."
Mark laughed. "I think we could. It is Aaron, not me, who is likely to make the most of any opportunity."
"Why can't I be so fortunate," said Chris enviously. "The way you sing that duet with me, I feel that it is me you want to bed."
Andy laughed. "So it shows?"
"Hell man, you sing as if you are in love with me, haven't you noticed I have a hard on at the end, that's why I am having to wear a jockstrap."
Mark was doubled up with laughter. He spluttered "I hope he doesn't come on stage." At this it was Mark who roared.
"It's not funny, only very difficult concentrating on the song," Chris protested. He looked at his watch. "I have to go, I have a lecture in 10 minutes." With a 'see you', he left.
"I really mean what I said about using my piano and practicing at home. Can we talk about it on Sunday?" Andy laid his hand over Mark's, "we make a good partnership for recitals, I would like it to be permanent."
During the afternoon Andy's words kept interrupting his thoughts. Could there be a deeper meaning and expectation, he wondered. That night as he cuddled Aaron, he told him of Andy's invitation to the stage supper and stay-over. Aaron was delighted to accept both but Mark had some reservations about the stay-over. He liked Andy but wondered if he was the one pursued.
They were relieved that Andy had sent them reserved seats for when they arrived at the theatre, they found it nearly full. Their seats were near the front with an excellent view of the stage. Jerry was parked in his wheelchair at the end of the row of seats with his parents. Mark introduced Aaron who was soon talking to Jerry.
The orchestra began the concert with the overture to La Traviata. The curtain rose with the garret scene of Act one of La Boheme with Andy and Julia on stage. Andy began singing Che gelida manima (your tiny hand is frozen) followed by Julia singing Mi chimana Mimi (my name is Mimi) and ending with the duet O souve fanciulla. The audience erupted with a standing ovation. They had been spellbound by two magnificent voices, clear, full of emotion and with sensitive acting. The revolving stage was being used and quickly another scene appeared. This time the scene was from Act one of the Barber of Seville. Chris Fenton sang the baritone aria Largo al factotum, giving it a robustness and humour which left the audience in no doubt of the character of this schemer . It was a convincing performance displaying a strong voice with a good appreciation of the character. He was then joined by Andy. As the stage lights dimmed, an eastern temple appeared in the background with the introduction to Au fond du temple saint (In the depths of the temple.), the duet in the opening scene of Les Percheurs de perle. (The Pearl Fishers). Their voices were well matched and effectively melded into beautiful harmonies. The singers seemed to be emotionally involved as their memories of a past friendship seemed to become a love song. No wonder Chris felt emotional thought Mark as he listened enraptured. He could feel the emotion himself. When it ended he felt stunned and slowly followed the audience onto its feet, delighted by a great performance. An oriental scene appeared with Andy center stage again. This time he sang Nessun dorma from Turandot. It's high notes seemed to be no effort as Mark's voice reached every part of the theatre, strong and clear including the sensitive nuances that makes it so difficult. 'God you are beautiful, I love you,', thought Mark overwhelmed by the emotion he felt from the magnificent voice.
Another tenor, baritone, bass and mezzosoprano sang arias from many operas with the choir including many well known choruses. On several occasions encores were demanded including Andy and Chris's duet and Nessun dorma.
It had been a first class concert much appreciated by the enthusiastic audience. As they left their seats. Aaron asked Mr. Weston whether they were attending the stage supper, he said they were. He then asked Jerry if he would like a push, his offer was warmly accepted and he was soon sharing one of Aaron's risque jokes. They followed Mark to the door to the stage and dressing rooms. When they arrived, the stage was already crowded and caterers were serving hot drinks and wine with savories and sandwiches. The atmosphere was charged with the excitement of a successful evening. Julia rushed up to them.
"Well, how did it go?" she asked flushed by feelings of success.
"You were great sis," said Jerry, "you didn't even screech on those high notes. But who was your lover, he is a real dish, and what a voice."
"You were great," said her father, kissing her cheek, pride clearly obvious. "I think you will make the stage yet." He hugged her. Her mother did the same, there were tears in her eyes. Mark watched with a lump in his throat.
"I wish Andy's parents could have been here tonight," said Mark to Aaron, "I'm sure they would have been proud of his performance too."
"He was wonderful, what a voice," said Jerry. "Do you think he would sing any of my songs?"
"So you compose," said Aaron. "If you will send some to me I will persuade him to try them."
"Would you? But don't tell him they are mine, not unless he likes them." Jerry was nervous.
Aaron put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I wont and I promise to let you know his opinion of them."
The hour was growing late and Andy could see that the Dean was wanting the party to end. He suggested to Andy that they give the message with Con Te Partiro. Andy beckoned Mark and they went over to a piano. Mark began playing the introduction. Quietly Andy's voice sang the opening verse with his voice growing louder with the familiar chorus. 'I'll go with you to countries I never saw...' Everyone turned as the volume increased and his voice grew higher to a terrific climax with 'with you I shall experience them.' Julia had joined him and she took the second verse 'When you are far away I dream on the horizon and words fail.' Together they sang the chorus 'I'll go with you....' It was breathtakingly beautiful as their voices rose in unison. As they ended on the high forte, Aaron handed Andy his coat. There was laughter as they applauded. Everybody had got the message
"Thank you Julia, that was perfect", said Andy, "we are good together, at singing anyway. Sorry I can't share more with you."
"I know," she said softly, tears in her voice. She took his hand and gently squeezed it.
Mark and Aaron followed Andy to the Fiat in the car park. They were soon driving up Kelburn Parade, across the viaduct into Karori and Kowhai Crescent. The automatic garage doors were opening as they approached a large two story house. Andy parked his car beside a BMW and a Jaguar. A connecting door gave access to the hall. It was impressive. It was an architect designed house, very modern, with the ceiling of the hall following the roof line. It was lit by suspended panels of illuminated glass. Mark gazed about him impressed by the spaciousness.
"I'll take you on a tour of the house tomorrow," said Andy noticing Mark's interest. "I'll take you to your room." They mounted a wide staircase with a chair lift attached to the inside wall, to a landing that circled the hall. They entered a large room with a queen size bed.
"The en suite is through there," he said pointing to a door. Elizabeth, our housekeeper will have provided everything for you. Tell me if there is anything you need. My room is next door. Come through for a nightcap when you are ready." Andy left them.
"Well this indeed is luxury," said Aaron. "This I can appreciate."
"And I," said Mark as he entered the en suite. It lacked nothing. They showered and dressed in the towelling bath robes that were on the bed, they entered Andy's bedroom. It was similar to their's but with another door, open revealing a study. Andy was naked pouring glasses of wine at a cocktail cabinet.
"I don't make a habit of this but this is a special night to be celebrated." He handed each of them a glass of red wine. "Why the robes, there is no need to be shy here. I love getting about naked as long as no one is offended." Aaron grinned and discarded his. Mark did the same.
"Here's to a wonderful friendship and academic success." said Andy. They clinked glasses and drank. Andy refilled them. They lounged on the king size bed. Andy spread his legs as he lay back. He had a thick 8 inch circumcised cock. He was eyeing those of Mark and Aaron. "I love foreskin," he said. "I wish I was not cut, yours look beautiful."
"They make oral sex more interesting," said Aaron with a grin, "but I still enjoy peeling cherries."
"How about you?" he asked Mark. He did not reply. "Mark seems to find it difficult to answer," he said after what seemed to be a long silence.
"Mark is still discovering the smorgasbord of gay sex. He needs some encouragement," said Aaron.
"Oh, sorry Mark, but I hope you will feel free to enjoy opportunities."
They talked abut the concert, drank the wine until the bottle was empty and their speech became increasingly slow and slurred. Then Mark said he was ready to drop. Aaron put his arm around him. "Come on, you can sleep with me tonight."
"We can't leave Andy tonight, it's been a shpeshal night for a shpeshal guy and that guy told me he needs company tonight, all night. Is that not so Andy?"
Andy smiled at Mark. "That's right." He climbed into bed. Mark followed him, lay down and immediately fell asleep. Aaron shrugged, lay down on the other side of Andy and then he whispered in his ear,
"You can have my teddy for tonight. Treat him carefully for he is fragile and has had very few bed-mates."
Mark woke with a hangover and feeling lethargic. He was slow to notice the hand holding his fully erect cock and Andy's face pressed against his chest. Then he felt Aaron's arm across his chest. It felt good so he relaxed enjoying the attention of them both. He recalled Aaron's offer to share his teddy and was glad that Andy had accepted it. He gently stroked Andy's hair and then felt his cock being pumped. Andy slipped down the bed until he reached his genitals. A tongue stroked his cock, his balls, his thighs several times, and fingers peeled back his foreskin. His tongue began to stroke the head. It flicked the slit and circled the ridge, repeatedly, until the sensations surging through Mark were more than he could bear. Andy's mouth engulfed the rigid cock and the warm moist tongue massaged it's length. The pressure of tight lips and the occasional feel of hard teeth intensified the sensations. Mark thrust his cock deeper into Andy's mouth. His body squirmed in response to the charges of intense and exhilarating pleasure that he felt. He moaned, his chest heaved, his arms and legs were rigid as he felt an orgasm developing. Suddenly it fired and with knees bent, Mark thrust his pelvis upward as jet followed jet filling Andy's mouth with cum, until it was overflowing onto Mark's thick pubic hair. Andy swallowed as much as possible but the incessant flow was too much. The last ejaculation and wilting cock did not deter Andy as he continued to suck Mark's cock, gently chew his foreskin and fondle his balls. Mark withdrew his cock and pulled Andy into his arms, hugging him,
"That was wonderful," said Mark
Andy kissed him, forcing his tongue between his lips with a lot of his cum. Mark tried to pull back but Andy would not let go and passionately held him close. Mark relaxed and began to enjoy the experience. He too became passionate as his tongue sought Andy's.
"Break, you randy studs," shouted Aaron. "He's shot his load, what more do you want?"
"You," Andy replied and descended onto Aaron's cock. It took very little time before he also came. Mark's hand caressed Aaron adding to the pleasure he felt. Then Mark kissed him, a gentle kiss conveying more affection than Andy's brutal busking. Aaron suddenly went rigid, his arms and legs outstretched as he again climaxed. As with Mark, Andy passionately kissed him. Unlike Mark, he became equally passionate and they were soon locked in a struggling embrace. It became a wrestling match which ended when they fell off the bed. Flushed with excitement and breathing heavily, they gathered Mark into their arms, their bodies pressed hard against each other.
"What a joy it is to waken with friends like you," said Andy laughing. "Shall we shower together. It will be a squeeze but worth a try."
He was right, the shower in the en suite could only just accommodate them so there was much hilarity as they soaped each other, for it was impossible to soap themselves. Rubbing against each other was quite exciting, rigid cocks were poking others. Mark slid to the floor and his mouth found Andy's cock. It felt wonderful in his mouth as he gently sucked it. It did not take Andy long to come. His salty sweet cum filled his mouth. It was more to his liking than Aaron's or Ralph's as he savoured it slowly before swallowing it. He looked up to see Andy and Aaron kissing.
"I reckon we have sealed our friendship this morning," said Mark.
Andy looked down. "I would like to think so, but I know we will have to work at it if it is to last, and I want to begin right now with breakfast."
Fruit juice, cereals, honey, marmalade and more soon disappeared as they sat around the kitchen table. They wore skivvies and shorts provided by Andy.
"I will show you over the house as soon as we have cleared the table and loaded the dishwasher," said Andy. I know Mark is keen to see it."
They were soon on their way.
"There are 5 large bedrooms upstairs, 3 with en suites the other 2 sharing.. May parents have the largest at the front of the house. They are all very much alike."
"Why do you have a chairlift?" asked Mark
"That was installed for my grandmother who was in a wheelchair. She died last year. She encouraged my musical career and persuaded my parents to support it. I have a lot to thank her for."
He opened the door next to the kitchen into a spacious dining room. There was a large oval table that would seat 12. The decor was in pastel shades including padded dining chairs, drapes and carpet. On the wall were paintings and stereo speakers. A door gave access to a sitting room, cheery bright colours made this a warm welcoming room furnished with settees, easy chairs, coffee tables, a cocktail cabinet and small desk. A Bang and Olufsen TV and VCR with floor standing speakers was the major feature. Magazines and newspapers were on two small tables. "We seem to live in this room mostly," Andy said. They returned to the hall and entered the lounge through glass double doors. This was a very large room lit by two chandeliers and standard lamps. There was elegant furniture, small priceless sculptures stood on pedestals and at one end tall black and silver speakers stood on the floor. Floor to ceiling windows looked out over sweeping lawns to mature trees.
"We seldom use this, as I said, we mostly use the sitting room."
They crossed the hall to the study. It was clearly a work centre with it's two computers, fax machine, and other office equipment. A large polished desk dominated attention. Three leather upholstered chairs were arranged around a low circular table.
"My father spends most of his time here whenever he is at home. That's not often enough for me. I often use it for studying. It also serves as a library." He pointed to the many bookcases , these and filing cases lined the walls. "now for my real home, the music room," he said as they left.
It was a room filled with sunlight coming from floor to ceiling windows. A grand piano was in the centre. Along the walls were bookcases with glass doors containing opera scores, filing boxes labelled with the name of composers, piles of sheet music and books. On a long sideboard was a Bang and Olufsen hi fi stereo system and two massive speakers. There were hundreds of CDs, tapes and records in still more cabinets.
"We live with music in this house, there are speakers in every room all connected to this. It plays tapes, CDs, radio, satellite, records, TV and also the lights from the remote control."
"This is where I practise and become totally immersed in singing and music, so I just about live in here." He played a few notes of Beethoven, seeming to ignore the others for a moment, it was as if he was under a spell. I hope you too will enjoy what it has to offer." He was looking at Mark. "But I have not shown you where I relax."
They followed him through another door into a short passage. He opened a side door into a fully equipped small gymnasium. "Dad and I work out regularly, feel free to use it." They continued down the passage which gave access to a large swimming pool. The outside wall was glass sliding doors opening onto a wide lawn. One end of the room was glassed in and contained a spa pool. At the other end was a conservatory.
"I thought you might like a swim or to spend some time in the spa," he said.
Aaron's smile of delight gave him his agreement. Mark's frown and silence made Andy seek the reason.
"You have so much, you are fortunate to have the means to success," he replied.
"It contributes little unless I am motivated, determined to achieve goals and I need others to keep encouraging me. My parents do this but I need friends who are of a like mind. I hope to find them at the University. All this is worthless unless it is used. I feel that you are friends who might use and enjoy them."
"Thank you for your invitation," said Aaron. " I like to think that as your friends there will be opportunities."
"Do you feel like a swim?" asked Andy.
"I do," Aaron replied and immediately stripped and dived into the pool. The others watched him swim a couple of lengths before joining him. They swam several lengths until Andy noticed Mark breathless resting on the bar at the end of the pool. He swam up to him.
"You are much fitter than me," he said.
"I jog with Aaron each evening and that has helped my fitness and breathing. Regular exercise is the reason. You should join us."
"I wish I could. My regular exercise means practising every day, and so while you both enjoy yourselves, I had better get started."
Andy climbed out of the pool, showered, dressed and left. Aaron and Mark. They did not stay much longer and as they entered the hall, they could hear Andy practising scales. Mark listened while Aaron went the sitting room. Mark quietly entered the music room unnoticed. Andy sat at the piano striking chords with the key for each scale. Mark sat on a chair behind him. After some 15 minutes, Andy placed the score of La Traviata on the music stand. He noticed Mark.
"Would you like to accompany me?" he asked.
Mark nodded and took his place at the keyboard.
"This is my current exercise for the course," he said. It was Questa o quella form Rigolleto. Mark looked through the aria and then began to play the introduction. Andy's performance was rough.
"How long have you been practising this?"
"A week. Not good?"
"Bloody awful." Mark played a line. "That is how it supposed to go. Now listen to this, that is how you sang it."
He took Andy carefully through the aria, emphasising the phrasing while making it note perfect. "You can polish the sound once you have perfected the tune," Mark said. They spent an hour with Mark correcting Andy's errors.
"We could have another practise after lunch," suggested Mark.
"Would you? Man that would be great." Andy placed his arms around Mark from behind and hugged him. Mark looked up, Andy kissed him then kissed him again. Mark smiled,
"I like my reward."
"Finished?" asked Aaron from the door.
Andy looked at his watch. I must get lunch ready, it wont take long." He rushed out of the door.
"Can we help," shouted Aaron as he followed him.
Elizabeth had prepared meals which only needed heating for the weekend. Andy put the potatoes and frozen vegetables on the stove and the meat pie in the microwave while Aaron set the table. With a bottle of wine that Andy produced, the meal was much enjoyed with Aaron commenting that it was better than the one they would have had at the House.
Aaron had found some gay magazines and was keen to get back to them. Andy and Mark spent an hour again practising the aria with Andy's rendition continuing to improve.
"How do you feel about helping me every weekend?" asked Andy. "I could call for you each Saturday morning and return you to the House on Sunday."
"Sure I would like to, but I need to study as well so I would like time to spend on my assignments as well."
"That's fine, you can use the study, or mine when my parents return. Shall we start next weekend?"
Mark agreed. They joined Aaron in the sitting room.
When Mark returned to his room after the evening meal, he saw a large envelope addressed to him on the table. He opened it to find several sheets of music, songs written in an unfamiliar hand.
"Where have these come from and why are they sent to me?" he asked Aaron."
"I called on Jerry and he has asked me to ask you to persuade Andy to give him his honest opinion of them. They are his compositions, both words and music."
"Why Andy?"
"Oh he thinks he is the greatest, he is his idol, and he is terribly shy about it. He wants the source to be anonymous, poor lad, an impossible expectation."
Mark had been looking at several of the songs as Aaron spoke. "You know, they are not bad. I could suggest a few changes, sure I will take them with me next Saturday. How come you visited Jerry?"
Aaron hesitated before answering as if he was uncertain how to reply. "Oh I like the guy. I think he needs company, more friends. Anyway Julia thinks so."
"Do you think he is gay?"
"There are some indications, it is very likely. What bad luck being both disabled and gay, it can't be much fun. Anyway he wants to study for a music degree at varsity.
"He should meet Andy and hear his experiences and impressions of the course," said Aaron.
Andy arrived at 10 to collect Mark. He had packed for a stay-over and had included texts with his assignments. They immediately began Andy's exercises and working on improving his performance of Questa o quella which he was to present the following week.
"Do you have Rigolleto among your CDs? " Mark asked.
Andy quickly found it and located the aria. They played it several times before Mark said
"I believe you have got it fairly right, now you have to give feeling to the message. This Duke of Mantua is a lecherous young stud whose ambition is to seduce every maiden that takes his fancy. Substitute guys for maidens, presume the Duke is gay, and sing it like a randy stud who always wants to score."
Andy laughed. "I'll think of you and that should convey the right impression."
Mark began the introduction and this time the aria took off providing a clear image of a lascivious enticer with only sex on his mind. When Andy finished it, Mark was laughing. "If you perform like that you should get a good grade, you sound like the ultimate predator."
"That's because I was thinking of you," he replied with a broad grin.
"You may not need to be so determined, you have already seduced me," said Mark. He took Andy's hand, pulled him close and kissed him.
"But I enjoy seducing you."
"And I love being ravished but it may take time for me to be the seducer."
"You wont have to try very hard," Andy replied. "Shall we go through the aria once more then call it a day."
When they had finished, Mark said to him, "I have been asked to give an opinion of some songs that have been sent to me, I would like to hear your opinion."
He began to play one titled "Could that be me." It was a wistful plaintive melody with words conveying a longing for a different self image. This was followed by "Serenade for Stephen", an emotional adoration of a beautiful man. The third was a ballad of unrequited love. The melody was quite beautiful with periodic changes of tempo.
"Well, what do you think?" asked Mark.
"Interesting, very interesting. I like them even though I would like to make minor changes. I see they are hand written so I presume they are original compositions."
"That's right, but are they worth performing.?"
Andy looked carefully at each score before replying. "I think they are and they are likely to be well received by gay listeners. I do think minor changes could improve them. Do I know the composer?"
"You do, but he was too shy to approach you hence my involvement."
Andy laughed. "Let me guess, it was Aaron?" Mark shook his head. Andy looked puzzled. "I have no idea, who then?"
"Jerry. If you like them he wants you to sing them "
"Well, well, for one who lacks training, he shows real talent. Do you think he would agree to minor changes?"
"More than likely, he thinks you are the greatest and will probably agree to your suggestions."
"I have an idea, shall we invite Jerry and his family to dinner next Saturday, We will include Aaron."
"I like it, it is a great idea. I think Aaron has the hots for Jerry and it will give his family an opportunity to meet other gay guys should they ever have to accept Jerry's sexuality, that is, if he is gay."
"I will phone them now," Andy said as he reached for the cordless phone.
The call was answered by Mrs Weston. She at first found it difficult to identify Andy until he mentioned his duet with Julia. He told her he had been trying some of Jerry's songs, that he liked them and would like them to hear them, so would they all come to dinner next Saturday. Yes the invitation included Jerry and Julia. Mark and Aaron would also be invited. She promised to return his call after consulting the family.
"Shall we again try 'Could that be me'." Asked Andy. Mark played as Andy stood behind him reading the score and lyrics. It was a pensive reverie of future hopes and dreams. There was no doubt it was a longing for a friend and lover to provide reassurance. It was not clear whether it was love from a woman or a man and therefore suitable for any audience. "I like it. Should it be changed at all?" After careful consideration they agreed it was fine. They spent the rest of the morning performing the other songs and identifying a few improvements.
It was during lunch that Mrs Weston phoned. They were pleased to accept Andy's invitation but she was puzzled by Jerry's excitement. "You will know when you hear the songs" said Andy leaving her none the wiser.
As the afternoon was warm and sunny, Andy suggested that Mark might like to visit the family beach house at Raumati, an hour's drive north on the Kapiti coast. Mark said he should be studying but was easily persuaded to agree. They were soon well on the way in the Fiat and within the hour they turned off State Highway One onto the Raumati South road. Before they reached the beach they turned south and travelled to the end of the road. Andy drove onto the lawn and pulled up at the front door of a small wooden house.
"Here we provide for only basic needs, this is a place to relax, keep out of sight and avoid pressures. I use it most, sharing it with friends," said Andy as he unlocked the door. They entered a living room with a kitchen at one end. "There are two bedrooms and a bathroom with a toilet. That's all. Now make yourself at home."
There were rugs on the floor, a few chairs around a table and four easy chairs. In one corner was a baby grand piano. Andy went into the bedrooms and opened the windows and the sliding doors from the living room.
"This is our hideaway when we want to be on our own," said Andy.
"Is that why we are here?" asked Mark. Andy nodded. "Surely you see enough of me every weekend?"
Andy looked out of the open door, his back to Mark. "I don't, you are always on my mind and I want to be with you all the time." He turned to face Mark and took a deep breath. "I love you very much, more each day, yes I am crazy about you." He looked down at is feet. "I don't expect you to love me, well not yet, but hope you will one day."
"I am scared of my sexuality," Mark replied. " I haven't accepted it like you and Aaron. Ralph has helped as have both of you, but I don't love myself enough to give myself to you. I admit I like you more than anyone else, but I am beginning to feel dependent on you."
"I never want you to feel shackled to me, God no, my love can only be worthy of you when you are free to choose. I have to earn your love, not buy it, for it is priceless. It is not going to be easy for me for as you can see, I have all that money can buy but not true love, the kind that I hope one day you will feel for me."
He took Mark in his arms. "Believe me, I love you dearly. I don't want to lose you."
Mark was feeling very emotional after Andy's heartfelt confession. He kissed him then stroked his cheek. "I believe you. I am never impulsive, my love may grow, and when it does it will be true and steadfast, never fear."
"I would like you to live with me, don't decide now but think about it. Whatever you decide will make no difference to how I feel about you."
Mark saw a man approaching the house. He did not knock but walked in.
"We saw you arriving Andrew," he said. "We've missed you." He hugged Andy.
"This is Paul my godfather and my father's best friend," Andy said to Mark by way of explanation for the familiarity. "Meet my friend Mark, he is special," he said to Paul.
"I am delighted to meet you. This lad needs special friends, I hope you share his bed."
Mark's face was a picture of disbelief at what he heard.
"Don't mind Paul, he and his partner Peter have slept together for years and think I should too." He grinned. "Peter is another godfather and a director on my father's Board.:
"We want you both to have tea with us, can do?"
"I guess so," Andy replied.
"Good, about 5. Now I will leave you to an afternoon of incessant sex. Have fun." Paul departed leaving Mark still not believing what he had heard.
Andy laughed. "I have known Paul and Peter all my life. They soon figured that I was gay and helped my self acceptance. They are not paedophiles, they only love and support me like worthwhile godfathers. They are also trustees for my investments, along with my father. I hope you will like them."
"Well is it to be sex or a walk on the beach?" asked Mark.
"You choose."
"A stroll along the beach with a wonderful guy will make my day."
He put his arm around Andy's waist and together they went through a small gate over the sand hills onto the beach. A sea breeze ruffled their hair and billowed their shirts. They paddled at the edge of the surf, periodically jumping as a higher wave threatened to soak their shorts. Mark tried to flick water onto Andy who gave chase as Mark tried to avoid retaliation. They laughed at their childish antics. They chased each other, scattered seagulls, climbed up and down sand hills and revelled in the joy they felt in being together. Mark checked his watch and suggested that it was time they returned.
Paul and Peter's home was very close. The door opened as they approached. A tall man with thinning hair hugged and kissed Andy as soon as he stepped inside. We have missed you dear boy," he said hugging him again. Andy introduced Peter. "And this will be the love of your life, Mark. It is a pleasure to meet you Mark. Andy is family so we very much wanted to meet you."
Paul appeared in an apron on which was printed the picture of a naked man. He first hugged and kissed Andy and then hugged Mark.
"Peter give the lads a drink and stop being so envious of Andy. I know you like bears. Dinner is nearly ready. Peter raised his eyes to the ceiling. Andy laughed, "he's not for sharing. He's mine all mine." He took Mark's hand and pulled him over to the settee to sit beside him.
Peter and Paul have been partners for, how long is it Peter?"
"25 wonderful years. We do have the occasional tiff but always make up in bed that night. I hope you will both be together even longer."
Mark took the rum and coke from the silver salver he was offered. Andy did the same. Paul joined them and took the small glass of whisky. "Here's to a happy and successful future ," said Paul raising his glass. They clinked glasses and drank.
"So what have you been up to?" asked Paul
"I'm sure that's private," said Peter winking at Mark..
"Quite a lot," Andy replied. He told them about the Music Department concert and Le Bistro and of Mark's contribution.
"I heard about that. I am told you were a hit," said Paul.
"And at the concert," interrupted Peter. I have since heard there is talk of a recital at St. Andrews on the Terrace."
"Really? I have heard nothing," said Andy.
Paul wanted to know more about Mark and it did not take him long to realise that they were very close
"Andy I have been intending to call on you to discuss your investments," said Paul. "Should I wait until your parents return?"
"Perhaps that would be better, they expect to be back at the end of the month," he replied.
Peter appeared in the doorway. "Dinner is ready, it's a roast. I bet you seldom have them dining alone, " said Peter.
Mark soon realised that Andy often dined with Paul and Peter when visiting Raumati. They were very interested in his progress at University and were pleased to hear that he had joined the Gay Student's Club.
"I am very glad that you have at last found real friends," he said to Andy. Turning to Mark, he added, "He is a very lonely boy."
Soon after the meal ended, Andy asked that they be excused as they had to return to town.. They are my second parents, always keeping an eye on me when my parents are overseas. I love them dearly, and they me. That is why they were curious about you. I hope you didn't mind."
"Did you ever sleep with them?" asked Mark.
"No, but we often talked about sex and they have told me about their own promiscuous lives before they met. They truly are a married couple."
The lights of the city and the moon's reflection on the harbour as they drove down the Ngauranga Gorge was a beautiful sight. Andy put his hand over Mark's.
"Do you have to return to the House tonight, could you stay over?"
"Sure, I have all I need for tomorrow. I don't want this weekend to end. either"
"You know it need never end if you would move in with me."
"I doubt that your parents would approve."
"I believe they would, once they get to know you. Anyway, they will meet you when you are with me at weekends."
As they travelled under the Kelburn Viaduct, climbed the hill and passed through the Karori tunnel, Andy said
"Would you like to call your parents tonight? It must be difficult getting access to a phone at the House."
"That's right and I admit I don't write very often,. I really would like to surprise them." Mark chuckled at the thought.
As soon as they entered the sitting room, Andy handed Mark the cordless phone. "Do it now while I make some coffee."
The call was answered by his brother Luke who, on recognising Mark's voice, yelled excitedly to his family that Mark was on the line. His mother grabbed the phone her delight, apparent in her rapid questions as to his welfare and progress. It was a long call with everyone wanting to speak to him. He told his father that he was calling from the home of his friend Andy. He soon learnt that he was a close friend and told him that he would like to meet him. There was a few minutes silence as he conferred with his wife followed by a suggestion that they come home for a weekend. Mark consulted Andy and it was agreed that they could two weeks hence, arriving on the Saturday and returning on the Sunday. He could hear the delight in his father's voice echoed by the others that were close by. They each spoke again. Before Luke passed the phone back to his mother, he said, "There is a very important matter I have to discuss with you. We must make time, ok?" Mark promised puzzled by his insistence.
"I'm afraid that will be a hefty toll bill," said Mark as he lifted his mug of coffee. "It was great hearing them again. I'm glad you will be with me, I so much want them to meet you."
"It must be fun having a brother and sister'" Andy said wistfully.
"It can be a pain at times. We seldom agree."
They were preparing for bed and Andy was turning down the sheet. Since the call, Mark had been feeling quite emotional about Andy. There were only small indicators but he knew the brief glances, sly smiles and gentle touches from Andy were making his heart leap. A surge of affection for this guy caused Mark to move behind him, to place his arms around him and rest his cheek between his shoulders.
"It's been a wonderful day. You really are special and I admit I am loving you more."
"Andy turned around, his face beaming with joy. "You are sure? I hoped you would on day. God you are my sunlight. I hate Monday to Friday when you are not here."
He held Mark close and they kissed, sinking onto the bed in a long embrace.
Mark told Aaron that Jerry's songs had been well received, that Andy thought they were very good and wanted to discuss them with him. He told him about the dinner party next weekend to which he was invited. Aaron's smile said it all.
"I've been seeing quite a lot of Jerry when you have been away. We have gone for long walks. He knows that I am gay and admits that he feels the same. He is not out and is scared that his family will find out.
"The dinner party could help their understanding of gay relationships," aid Mark. "Julia knows that Andy is gay, and no doubt me too, that may help."
Aaron was strongly attracted to Jerry and it was obvious that he wanted their friendship to grow. He talked of little else each evening.
"I suppose you realise that Andy and I are more than friends," said Mark
"Sure, and others have noticed. That's great. I will miss my teddy bear, and as much as I like you in bed, sorry Mark, I can't love you."
"I hope Jerry might be the one."
"May be, but it will take time and a lot of work. Poor kid he is quite confused."
"So you wont mind if I move in with Andy?"
"Not at all, but I still want to be a friend."
"Of course you will, we need your friendship. We hope you will call often and don't wait to be asked. I nearly forgot, would you come early on Saturday and check us out so that there will be no access or other difficulties for Jerry?"
To be continued.
The author Stewart Ransom invites comments. E-mail address: nivision@manawatu.gen.nz