The Farmer and Dale Chapter 7

The Farmer and Dale

Chapter 7

Dale grinned, "Oh yeah, I'd say you were pretty lucky too." Over Steven's shoulder, he could see Rick approaching with their drinks. "Speaking of luck, I'd like you to meet my partner." He indicated Rick who had stopped behind them.

Both men turned. Steven's face filled with astonished disbelief. "Oh my God. Gerald?" He reached out for James' hand. James immediately came to his side. Steven shook his head, pulling himself together. "No, you couldn't possibly be," he murmured.

Dale stepped forward, a confused look on his face. "Steven, James, I'd like you to meet Rick Hunter. Rick, this is Steven Eddington and James Duncan."

Rick handed one of the drinks to Dale, freeing his hand which he offered first to James and then to Steven. "I'm very pleased to meet you both." His gaze turned to Steven. "Did you call me Gerald? That’s my father’s name. I'm told I look just like him."

Surprise and confusion was replaced with comprehension in Steven’s eyes. "Gerald's son, that explains it. My God, you do look just like him. Exactly the way he looked the last time I saw him."

Rick and Dale made eye contact, astonished understanding filling their eyes. "Steven, Steve. You're Steve, the man my dad told us about." Rick's own eyes were filled with disbelief. "I can't believe this!"

"Rick, Dale, could we adjourn to Steven's office? It looks like we have some things to discuss," James suggested.

With nods of agreement, they made their way out of the party and up two floors to Steven's office. James offered drinks, which were declined in favor of discussion.

Steven began, "Your father told you about me?"

Rick nodded, "I ‘came out' to my parents not long ago. I'm bi, something my parents weren't aware of. When I met Dale, well I didn't have any choice. I knew he was the one I'd been waiting for." Sitting beside Dale on a leather sofa, he reached for and held his hand. Dale gave him a smile filled with love.

Rick’s action seemed contagious, Steven echoed Rick’s smile, his own hand reaching for James who was perched on the arm of the chair Steven sat in. He stared at their linked hands and then into James' eyes, a silent message passing between them.

He turned to Rick. "I loved your father. I don't know how much he told you about us, but I loved him. I think he was beginning to feel the same for me but there was someone there before me. Your mother."

Rick nodded, swallowing hard at this gentle confession.

"When your mother discovered us, I had no idea that your dad was engaged to be married. He never told me, never let on." James squeezed Steven's hand, reassurance and love conveyed in that simple act. "Gerald was devastated. I knew then that the only right thing for me to do was to back away. Gerald was so obviously in love with your mother and even though I felt that he was coming to love me... I, well, I."

Steven stopped speaking, emotion closing his throat. James wound an arm around him.

"I understand." Rick spoke, his own voice husky with emotion. "Dad understood too. He told us that you were the most unselfish and giving man he'd ever known and that you told him to follow his heart or that he'd regret it for the rest of his life." Rick captured Steven's gaze. "He said he loved you, that you were a good man and that he hoped you had a good life because no one deserved it more."

Steven nodded with tears in his eyes clearly unable to speak. They waited in silence until he was able to get hold of his emotions. "You've no idea what those words mean to me. At the time it seemed like the end of the world but things worked out for the best. I found this man," he returned James' hug, "I couldn't be happier."

Rick and Dale nodded in understanding, their own love making it clear to them just what Steven and James shared.

"What about your father, Rick, has he been happy?" Steven asked.

"Yeah, I'd say so. I've got a brother and two sisters. Mom and dad have seven grandchildren. But more than that... our home was always filled with laughter and good feelings. We could always feel the love my parents have for each other. It spilled over onto their children and grandchildren."

"That’s wonderful,” Steven said his voice filled with sincerity. "And how did they take the news about you and Dale?"

Rick looked at Dale who nodded. "Mom wasn't real happy about it, to say the least but dad thinks she'll come around. Dad was shocked at first, I never let them see that I had any interested in men." Rick ducked his head sheepishly, a slight blush heating his cheeks.

The other three men chuckled in sympathy at his discomfort. Rick's patented grin made its appearance. "Dad's in our corner now, he says every thing’s going to be all right. I believe him," Rick stated with simple conviction. He gave Dale a shining smile, squeezing his hand.

"Well, I'd say things have worked out well for everyone concerned. What say we return to the party? Our absence is probably causing all kinds of speculation." James rose, Steven with him.

Steven approached Rick. "If you want, you can tell your dad that you saw me and that I'm living that happy life he wished for me. Tell him I'm glad to know that his life has been all he wished it to be. He's a very lucky man. Just as I am." His gaze connected with James'.

"I'll do that," Rick paused. "Oh hell." He wrapped his arms around Steven and gave him a hearty hug. Stepping back he grinned. "I feel like I just met family."

Steven laughed heartily. "You're a good man, Rick. Gerald's a lucky man to have a son like you. Come on men, lets rejoin the party."

With much good will and good feeling they returned to the party.

Dale and Rick were soon separated as they again began to mingle with the crowd. At one point Dale found Rick, noting with a frown that Greg Jamison had again captured Rick's attention and company once again. He sent glances in their direction from time to time, feeling a sense of relief when Greg left the room. His stomach dropped when a few moments later, Rick followed in his wake.

Dale felt a darkness open in his soul as fear and uncertainty poured in. Surely Rick wouldn't...he thought to himself, struggling to make the negative thoughts in his head go away. Still, his experience with Tony made it hard not to feel the insecurity. As he struggled with his feelings, he was unaware of James' scrutiny.

James approached Dale and gently took him aside. "Are you all right?" he asked. Dale shook his head not knowing what to say, how to express his emotional turmoil.

"You know your fears are groundless. Rick loves you. It was so clearly apparent earlier when we spoke. In fact, here he comes now." James nodded in Rick's direction.

Dale turned quickly, relief leaving him mute while tears stung his eyes. He gave James a grateful smile and watched him retreat, turning to greet Rick with an expression that reflected his waning fears but also his growing guilt. How could he have doubted Rick so easily?

Rick took one look and was instantly at his side. "What's wrong, babe? Are you all right?"

Dale again shook his head. "Can we go?" he murmured.

"Of course we can. Come on." Rick gently took Dale's arm and steered him through the crowd, making their excuses, telling anyone who asked that they were tired from their sightseeing and needed to rest.

He caught Steven's eye. Steven nodded his understanding, his look sympathetic yet encouraging. Dale was hurting. Rick didn't know exactly what was going on, but he intended to find out.

The doorman got them a cab, their trip quick and silent. Rick held Dale's hand, his thumb rubbing soothingly over his knuckles. They made their way through the lobby and up the elevator without speaking. On reaching their room Rick swiped the lock with the key card and drew Dale into the room and into his arms.

"Damn, I thought we'd never get here. What's wrong? Tell me," Rick murmured as he rocked Dale.

Dale's arms tightened as he whispered a muffled. "I'm sorry."

"Sorry? Sorry for what?" Rick question, genuinely puzzled.

Dale pulled away. "I doubted you. I saw you leave the room after Greg Jamison and I... I."

Understanding lit Rick's eyes. "You thought I was going to what, get a quick piece of ass in the men’s room or in some deserted office? Greg offered. I turned him down. I did go to the bathroom, but I went there alone." Hurt shadowed Rick's eyes. "I love you Dale, I wouldn't do that to you."

"I know!" Dale wailed. "In my heart I know that but I kept thinking about what happened with Tony and I... I can’t stop the damn doubts. You don’t deserve to be found guilty just because I’m insecure but I can’t help it. I saw you follow Greg out and the floor dropped out from under my feet." He reached out for Rick. "I'm so sorry. I don’t know what else to say."

Rick let his hard gaze rest on Dale for a moment, then he softened. "Come here," he commanded, pulling Dale into his arms.

Dale shuddered with relief. Burrowing into Rick's arms, he pressed himself tightly against Rick.

Rick tightened his hold. "I understand, I really do. I know you were hurt and I didn't help matters by what I did to you when I walked away." His hands rubbed Dale's back with long soothing strokes. "But you've got to learn to trust me again. Trust me when I say I love you, and that I'll never leave you."

Dale sighed. "I'm trying. You help me by showing me everyday how much you love me."

Rick nodded and pulled back. "Good. Because... I'm about to trust you with something. Something I've wanted, but never trusted anyone with. Until you."

Dale frowned and cocked his head, "What is it?"

Suddenly nervous, Rick took a deep breath, "I want you to make love to me."

Astonished comprehension lit Dale's eyes. "You mean you want..?"

"Yeah, I want you inside me," Rick admitted. "I've always been a top. I never felt the need to be fucked. Whenever I thought about it, there was never anyone I wanted to be with in that way. Until you. I want you to truly make me yours. I don't want us to be stuck in some role that we play. You're not my wife, you're my partner, my lover, in every sense of the word. We're equals."

Dale nodded, a warm and loving smile gracing his face.

Rick frowned and bit his lip. "Um, you have done this before, haven't you?" he asked uncertainly.

Dale laughed. "Yeah, I've done it before." He approached Rick and circled round him. "I've had some thoughts about this beauty." His hands ran over Rick's taut ass. "You just never seemed interested in changing the status quo and I really didn't have any complaints." He continued his circle, coming round to face Rick. "Don't worry, babe, I can handle it,” Dale said with sure confidence.

Dale left Rick standing in the middle of the room and picked up the phone. He spoke with the front desk, asking to be connected with the airport. Once connected, he made arrangements for the quickest flight out. Finished, he turned to find a frowning Rick.

"What are you doing? I thought you were going to do me."

Dale went to Rick and took him in his arms, kissing him with sultry, heated, passion until Rick moaned. Dale pulled back. "You think I'm doing something this important in a hotel room? Not on you're life, babe. We're going home. I'm going to pluck your cherry in our bed." Dale chuckled at Rick's sudden blush and smacked his ass. "Now get packed, our plane leaves in two hours."

In the dimly lit passenger cabin, Rick fidgeted in his seat. It seemed to him that the flight home was taking forever.

"Settle down. It won't be long now," Dale reprimanded lightly.

Rick sighed. "I know, it's just that, hell. You’re too much of a romantic. We should have just done it at the hotel. I wouldn’t have minded, you know."

"I know. But I would have minded. Besides you’re just antsy know cause you're horny," Dale teased with smile. He laid his hand on Rick's thigh and slid it slowly inward and upward.

"Jeez, Dale!" Rick tensed under his hand, sitting rigidly upright. "If you don't stop that I'm going to.... ohhh damn," he groaned softly. Rick's eyes closed, his breaths shortening as Dale lightly, but firmly massaged his rapidly filling cock. "Oh fuck, oh yeah," he whispered. Rick strove to keep still, but his buttocks tightened, his hips pushing up, grinding his erection into the welcome friction Dale provided.

"Easy," Dale whispered. "Not yet, lover, not yet." He withdrew his hand.

Rick ground his teeth together, his jaw flexing. Opening his eyes he gave Dale what he hoped was a scorching glare. "You better cut it out. I'm warning you now, if you get me any more riled up we'll be joining the mile high club. And I won't be filling out the application in the bathroom."

Dale grinned and chuckled. "Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. The thought of your sweet, tight, virgin little ass is driving me nuts."

Rick flushed, and looked around. Thankfully the seats in first class weren't squashed together. "Would you shut up!" he whispered urgently. This new aspect of Dale's behavior, this sudden dominance was causing some very new feelings for Rick to deal with. He felt off balance, almost jittery.

"Nobody can hear us." Dale drew his fingertips over Rick's cheek. "I like the way you blush. It's sweet, angel."

"Damn." Rick cursed softly, shaking his head, "You'd think I'd never had sex before."

"Well, in a way you haven't," Dale told him. "Not like this." He took Rick's hand, lifting it to his lips while lightly kissing then stroking his tongue over the knuckles. "Don't worry, baby. Daddy's gonna take care of everything."

Rick squeezed his eyes shut as another blush heated his face. A hot tingle twisted his gut with anticipation and uncertainty. "Well, shit." he sighed. "You're making me crazy."

"That's the idea." Dale flashed him a soft, knowingly smug smile.

Rick, giving Dale a frowning half smile half grimace, pouted silently.

The Farmer and Dale Chapter 6

THE FARMER AND DALE


Chapter 6


Humid, steamy heat filled the bathroom. Water streamed from multiple shower heads, pulsing against firmly muscled bodies that were naked, slippery and wet. They moved together with hypnotic rhythm. A guttural groan echoed in the glass enclosed grotto. Pressed against the shower wall, arms braced, breath heaving, Dale welcomed each slow, deep, invasive thrust of Rick's thick, vein-wrapped cock as it filled him.

Rick's heated murmurs made Dale quiver from the top of his head to the tips of his toes. "Ah God, you're so tight, so hot. Take me in. Yeah baby, take me in all the way. Oh fuck yeah, don't let go."

Dale tightened his sphincter, holding onto Rick through each withdrawal. The sensation was exquisite. Rick had used some ultra slippery lube to prepare Dale, with the result that each movement was a hot, silky-smooth glide. His chute welcomed the thick, burning invasion, protesting the outward movement, seeking to hold that hot, solid mass within.

He felt as though he was being impaled to his very core. Taken, pillaged, claimed. Loved. Each piercing thrust was a physical symbol of their commitment, each to the other. Rick's arms held him firmly, his hands caressing, arousing, driving Dale to the limits of his endurance. Eyes tightly shut, he wore a grimace of determined effort on his face. He fought to hold back his orgasm, fought for every second of pleasure, every minute bit of this precious joining.

Rick shifted. A slight bend of the knees, a tiny change in the angle of his entry brought his cock firmly against Dale’s prostate with spectacular result. His steady groans turned to frantic cries of agonized pleasure. His mind shredded. Any coherent thought fled as pure sensation pierced his gut. Rick's tempo increased. His words of praise, love and encouragement, deteriorated to grunts of effort as he de-evolved from a modern thinking man into a primitive creature of instinct with but one need. To fuck, to breed one's mate.

Short staccato thrusts punched Dale's gland again and again the pleasure shocking, debilitating in its intensity. The first touch of Rick's hand on Dale’s rock hard cock triggered the explosion. Thick shots of hot cream splattered against the shower wall as he roared out his release. He felt the heated rush of Rick's seed fill him. The intense pleasure gathered in his gut, twisting, eviscerating him with sensation.

Rick's own guttural shout joined Dale's as he shot his load deep within the hot welcoming depths of his lover. Dale had tightened on Rick's cock to a near painful degree, milking his hard pulsing shaft. Rick thrust deep and held on, hips straining with hard, pumping undulations that echoed each rocketing burst of cum. Completely buried and flush against his lover, his buttocks flexed as he filled Dale and felt the backwash of his cum as it leaked from the tight seal of their joining,
soaking his pubic hair.

They rested for long moments, no words spoken as they recovered. The water continued to pelt their skin, soothing, easing muscles that moments before had been taut with effort.

Rick began the long, slow retreat, dragging his still semi-solid length from Dale's body. His movement drew a weak groan, a shiver and a few errant drops of cum from Dale’s cock. Rick smiled weakly. He felt overwhelming pride and satisfaction from having so well pleasured his mate.

"Come here, baby." he murmured.

Turning a dazed and compliant Dale into the spray, he gently washed the remnants of their mutual release from Dale's body and then from his own. Rick shut off the water and directed a slowly rousing Dale out of the shower. With brisk but tender movements he dried Dale and was pleasantly surprised when Dale revived sufficiently to return the favor.

Dale rubbed the towel over Rick's face and hair. He dropped it around his shoulders and placed his hands on Rick's cheeks. Cupping his face, he leaned in for a kiss. One hand slid around to the back of Rick's neck, holding him, as the other hand continued to softly pet the rough stubble on the skin of his face. His tongue delved between Rick's lips and slid inside. Swirling slowly, tangling with careful, sensual deliberation with Rick's tongue, Dale reveled in the heady, unique flavor that was Rick.

Their warm, damp bodies melded together, Rick's arms circling Dale and pulling him in. Cocks so recently well used, stirred and thickened only slightly. Eventually Dale eased back. His eyes resembled intense green pools when they met the almost dazed blue-green of Rick's.

"I love you, Rick Hunter," he murmured softly.

Rick's smile was angelic. "I love you more, Dale Vaden," he answered, "Come to bed."

Dale chuckled softly. "I don't think I have the stuff to go another round."

"Is sex all you ever think about?" Rick teased. He pulled Dale with him into the bedroom of their hotel room. Pulling down the comforter, blanket and sheet, he urged Dale in.

"What do you say to some room service and a movie?" Rick asked as he settled next to him.

Following their plan to take a trip to New York City, Dale and Rick had made the arrangements. Deciding to take things at a leisurely pace, they opted for late flights. The trip began at Capitol airport in Springfield and ended at JFK at 9:15 p.m. Tired from the trip and the endless yet necessary airport security, they arrived at their destination, The Four Seasons, in the heart of Manhattan.

They'd decided to stay in for the remainder of the evening. Tomorrow would see them playing tourist, taking in the sights of New York. Rick looked forward to the day with great anticipation. He wanted to see everything. The Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Empire State Building and even Ground Zero, though he knew that would be a sad and sobering experience.

Dale had laughed when Rick told him of his plans, but seeing his partner’s enthusiasm, he soon waded in and they were planning several days of tourist activities. In the midst of their fun, they had a scheduled meeting with Dale's agent. Sarah Anscotti had assured Dale that she was very interested in reading Rick's work. Dale was an important client, his work and opinion well respected. If he felt Rick had something to offer than Sarah was going to give it a read. Dale's publishing company had been informed of his visit and contacted him. They were throwing a party one evening while he was in town and invited him and whomever he wished to bring with him.

Dale's visit coincided with the signing of another client whose books the publishing company was very excited about. In addition, they had just signed a very lucrative deal with two international and well known book chains. The publishing company was having a celebration. The owner of the company himself, a charming, older man that Dale had met several times, was putting in an appearance with his partner.

"He's one of us?" Rick had questioned when Dale told him about the party.

"Oh yeah. You'll like him. Steven Eddington, he's very sophisticated yet down to earth. He and his partner are very open about their relationship. His partner, James Duncan, is a lawyer. His firm handles all the legal business for the publishing company. They're partners in every sense of the word. They don't paw each other in public but you can feel the love between them. It's how I hope to see us years from now."

This confession had struck Rick straight to the heart. He'd pulled Dale with him to the sofa in the living room and cuddled with him, kissing and caressing him until the two of them were so hot they'd made love on the living room floor. Knowing that Dale loved him so much, that he envisioned them together all their lives gave Rick such a feeling of warmth and security. He'd shuddered with the joy of it, the overwhelming rightness of it, giving of himself without hesitation.

Rick had truly and completely lost his heart to Dale. Dale for his part was every bit as committed. Any fears they had were completely laid to rest as daily they meshed and melded, physically, mentally and emotionally.

Now in their hotel room the adventure having begun, Dale agreed to the movie. Together, giggling and teasing each other like children, they put together a feast to be delivered by room service.

When the food arrived, Rick donned a hotel robe to let the bellman in. After a whispered conversation, the young man left and returned ten minutes later handing Rick a can of spray whipped topping. Rick gave him a generous tip and a wink that sent him on his way with a pleased blush.

"Just what do you think you're going to do with that?" Dale asked with mock severity.

"I happen to like whipped cream on my fruit," Rick answered. His was expression completely innocent as he indicated the large bowl of freshly sliced strawberries, peaches, bananas, grapes, and apples.

Dale raised an eyebrow. "Remarks like that can get you thrown out of the organization, you know."

"What?" Rick dead panned. "I wasn't talking about you, babe. But now that you mention it..."

Dale smiled. "Maybe later. I'm hungry for food right now. We're not going to let all this go to waste are we?"

"Hell no!" Rick grinned.

They turned on the television and found Pirates of the Caribbean playing on one of the movie channels. Both had seen the movie before but they liked it and didn’t mind watching it again.

As they watched, they devoured their feast, both starving as their last meal had been hours ago. Partway through the movie, they finished and settled back to watch, sitting propped against the pillows. Rick wrapped an arm around Dale's waist and snuggled in, his head resting in the hollow of Dale's shoulder. Dale's chin rubbed the top of his head, the movement bringing a soft contented smile to Rick's lips.

As the movie neared its conclusion, Rick slipped out of Dale's arms and retrieved the bowl of fruit, bringing it and the whipped cream back to bed. He sprayed the whipped cream over the fruit and the two of them fed each other bites of fluff-covered fruit. Laughter soon followed as juice and cream smeared their fingers and dribbled down their chins when they tried to stuff too much into their mouths.

Rick accidentally dropped a slice of peach in Dale's lap and went searching for it. His search had Dale moaning as the slippery piece of peach slid over his growing erection. Finally capturing the errant piece of fruit, Rick fed it to Dale. Declining the use of a napkin, he began to clean the juice from Dale with his tongue, an action that sent Dale back against the pillows with a groan.

Dale felt a cool foamy weight against his skin and looked down to see Rick decorating his groin with whipped cream. He groaned, smiling as Rick placed pieces of fruit in the rich cream and proceeded to eat his creation. By the time he'd finished, Dale was twisting and squirming under Rick, his cock a throbbing mass of sensation.

He sat up and took the whipped cream from Rick. "I need some of this dessert too." he explained to a grinning Rick. Rick, who had whipped cream dotted and smeared on his smiling face, was a sight that made Dale laugh.

Dale proceeded to design his own elaborate concoction of fruit and whipped cream, using Rick's body as his plate. Then he began to feast. His tongue swirled in the sweet cream, the taste of Rick's skin mixing with that of whipped cream and various sweet, mellow and tangy fruits. His mouth eventually made it to the tip of Rick's full erection which was leaking a sweet, honeyed liquid of its own. Dale growled as he sucked in the unique flavor of his lover.

His mouth slid down the hot, solid length, his lips relishing the feel of the velvety smooth skin that covered the thick pulsing shaft that slid slowly over his tongue. Dale growled again, unable to contain the sheer animal satisfaction of having his lover’s cock so intimately, orally a part of him. He felt Rick's hands on his body, striving to move him. He growled a protest, holding tighter to his prize until he realized Rick's intension. He moved then positioning himself over Rick, feeling his own fully erect penis engulfed in heated warmth.

A guttural groan rumbled from his chest, vibrating in his throat and mouth, transmitting to the slippery column of Rick’s erection. Rick echoed his groan, the vibrations returning, sending quivers through Dale's tightening groin. He began to earnestly work Rick, sucking, laving and stroking with mouth and tongue.

Eyes closed constant groans working their way into his mouth, he held on to his prize lost in the silky glide of the thick shaft that filled his mouth. His own cock was near to bursting. Rick's groans sent a steady stream of shocking vibration through his cock, into his balls and up his spine. With a muffled roar Dale came, his cock shooting thick spurts of cream down Rick's throat and into his mouth. Rick's own release followed immediately and Dale swallowed each spray of hot seed finding it tastier that any whipped cream.

Drained, they released each other with slow gentle licks. Rick moved around and crawled up to Dale. Dale began to laugh weakly at the sight. Rick's face was still smeared with whipped cream which had somehow made its way into his hair, part of which was standing on end.

Rick too began to laugh. Dale put a hand to his own face coming away with whipped cream. The two of them clung to each other, laughing hysterically at the crazy picture they presented. Finally sobering, they stumbled into the bathroom for a quick wash in the shower.

The bed, amazingly enough, had suffered very little damage beyond being rumpled as hell. They returned everything to the room service cart and Dale wheeled it out their door as Rick began straightening the bed. The movie was long since over and they shut off the television, settling into bed with satisfied sighs.

"I'll never forget my first night in New York," Rick murmured with a sleepy chuckle.

Dale snorted. "I just wish we had pictures. Your hair was blackmail material for the next ten years."

Rick gave Dale a slight pinch on the butt causing Dale to jump. He pulled him back, spooning himself tightly against Dale. "You don't have to blackmail me. Just keep treating me the way you do and I'll give you everything I have."

Dale wiggled contentedly against Rick. "Same here, love, same here."

Sleep gently swooped in to claim them.

* * *

Waking late, Dale and Rick ate a leisurely breakfast before donning casual clothes and comfortable shoes. They wandered out of the hotel and onto the busy streets of New York. Rick was awed by the tall buildings, all the people and the never ending bustle. Dale urged him along while Rick shook his head in wonder of it. It was all very different and exciting but after breathing in a lung-full of exhaust laden air he knew that this was not a place he would choose to live. Still, this visit was proving to be an education in itself.

They visited Grand Central Station and ate lunch there. They rode the Staten Island Ferry and saw the Statue of Liberty. The Empire State Building was also inspected and admired with appropriate awe. Slowly they made their way through Rick's list, returning gratefully to the hotel at days end. Both were exhausted. After a quick shower and a meal delivered by room service, they fell into bed and immediately succumbed to sleep.

Their second day they agreed to slow the pace and found they enjoyed themselves more. They visited the Museum of Natural History and spent several hours, fascinated by the exhibits. After lunch they went to Central Park and took a leisurely stroll. Time's Square and Rockefeller Center got equal attention. By the end of the day, they were able to enjoy a wonderful dinner at a small Italian restaurant and returned to the hotel to make love. Both agreed it was a more satisfactory end to the day’s activities.

Their third day was to be devoted to pleasure of a different kind. They lounged around the hotel until mid-morning then met with Dale's agent, Sarah. She turned out to be a dark-haired, well-groomed, no-nonsense woman in her forties who, after reading through some of Rick's work saying it had great potential. She asked Rick if he had any ideas for a longer work, to which he replied in the affirmative. She urged him to write his manuscript and then send it to her.

"Rick, you should know, and Dale will back me up on this," Sarah told him. "I hold to some very high standards. I wouldn't care if you were married to the President of the United States, although that would be a hell of a drawing card, but if your work is not up to my standards I won't represent you. I won't embarrass either of us by trying to get shoddy, sub-standard work published. Even if your partner is my best client."

"I've already told Rick that, Sarah. And truly," Dale added with a smile, "we appreciate your candor."

Rick nodded his agreement. "I don't want to ride on Dale's coat-tails. If my writing doesn't stand on its own then it doesn't stand."

Sarah smiled and nodded. "From what I've seen here," she indicated Rick's binder of short stories, "your work is going to stand very well. It may even do some marching," she added with a grin. Both men laughed and rose from their seats, shaking the hand Sarah held out to them.

“You’ll be at the party tonight?” Dale asked.

“Of course. I expect to see you both there with bells on,” Sarah replied.

As they left the building and hit the street, Rick let out a sigh. "Wow, she doesn't pull her punches, does she?"

"Nope. That's why I like her, she tells you the truth and lets you know where you stand. She doesn't try to build your ego. If you're good she lets you know and if you're slacking she lets you know that too."

"This is a whole ‘nuther ball game' isn't it?" Rick commented. "I'm sure glad you're here, city boy."

Dale smiled, touched at Rick's sudden vulnerability. "I'll always be here for you, babe. You know that don't you?"

Rick paused and gazed into Dale's eyes. "I do know that." He looked around at the people who bustled by them in the street. "I so much want to kiss you right now. Can we go back to the hotel?"

"Oh yeah, my pleasure, lover." Dale stepped to the curb and hailed a cab.

* * *

Later that evening Dale and Rick drew many an appreciative glance to outright stares as they walked through the lobby of their hotel on the way to the party being thrown by Dale's publisher. Dressed casually in trousers, simple silk tees and jackets they were a very handsome duo.

Arriving at the party they again drew the attention of many of those in the room. Dale was well known to the publishing house staff. He and Rick were immediately approached by Steven Eddington's assistant and made to feel welcome. He explained that Steven and James were running a bit late but they would be there soon.

Sarah was there and so they began their rounds of socializing and chit chat. Many seemed eager to approach Dale, who with Rick at his side, was soon drawn into discussions of books and the publishing house's new deal. Rick excused himself to obtain drinks for himself and Dale.

He was approached by a very good looking man, Greg Jamison, an executive vice president of the company. Dale glanced in their direction. Noting their conversation and thinking nothing of it, he returned to his own. Five minutes later, Steven Eddington and James Duncan arrived. Steven and James greeted guest after guest as they made their way to Dale. Rick had not yet returned.

Dale gave them a welcoming smile as the two men approached. He genuinely liked this older couple, admiring not only their professionalism but the way they handled their personal life. He'd been quite sincere when he told Rick that this was what he envisioned for them.

Steven was a tall, distinguished looking man with silvery hair and rim-less glasses. At 58, he wore his age very well. James was several inches shorter, his hair dark, with silver at the temples. His intense blue eyes seemed to take in everything. Both men were well and fashionably dressed, exuding understated wealth and taste.

Finally they were able to come within speaking range. Steven held out his hand. "Dale, it's good to see you again, I'm hearing great things from Sarah about the new book."

Dale shook Steven's hand. "I can always count on Sarah to build me up. Of course that's just good policy. Gets us more money from you guys," he said with a laugh. "James," He shook the other man's hand. "How have you been?"

James Duncan gave Dale a smile. "Tolerable, Dale, tolerable. I have my hands full trying to keep this guy out of litigation."

Steven's brow rose. "Now James..."

James cut him off. "Oh no, don't start, this is a party. We are not going to discuss legal matters."

"You, my dear, started it," Steven told him, assuming an offended air.

"You're absolutely right. I apologize. Forgive me?" James teased, a charming smile lighting his face.

Steven returned the smile. The air between the two of them shimmered with their mutual love and affection.

Steven pulled Dale into their play. "You see what I have to put up with?"

Dale grinned. "Oh yeah, I'd say you were pretty lucky too." Over Steven's shoulder, he could see Rick approaching with their drinks. "Speaking of luck, I'd like you to meet my partner." He indicated Rick who had stopped behind them.

Both men turned. Steven's face filled with astonished disbelief. "Oh my God. Gerald?"

The Farmer and Dale Chapter 5

The Farmer and Dale

Chapter 5

The next morning Dale and Rick 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. It would take time for them to regain their full strength. Still, there was something about his lover’s air of quiet contemplation that triggered an alarm inside Dale.

Scooting back from the table, he stood and began clearing the dishes, while Rick finished his coffee. After dumping them into hot, soapy water, he turned back to Rick, sidled up behind him and placing his hands on Rick's shoulders, 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 okay, 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 and have a talk with them. About us."

Dale's stomach lurched in sympathy. Now he understood. 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 Rick’s beautiful, solemn, yet expectant, blue-green eyes. "I love you Rick Hunter. No doubts."

Rick nodded decisively, curtly, his eyes suspiciously bright.

“Come here a minute.” Dale dropped one of Rick’s hands, but kept a firm hold of the other. He led him into the living room, leaving Rick in front of the sofa with the admonition to stay put. Going to the stereo, he pushed a button and selected a song. 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. They enfolded each other 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. Rick’s arms tightened and Dale returned his grip with interest, 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. From the moment we met 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 want to be sure you know I’m here for you."

Rick took a deep breath and nodded, turning, he walked out of the living room, through the kitchen and out the back door. Dale was surprised at Rick’s wordless departure then even more so when a few moments later he returned, carrying a ringed binder filled with papers.

"I've been carrying this around in my truck 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, looked back and winked. "It’ll give you something to do while I’m gone. I love you. 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 soon up and running and by the sound, he could tell it was on the move.

Curious about what Rich had given him, he settled back and opened the binder. Inside was a series of short stories. Dale began with the first one and was immediately 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." he murmured softly, and drew back to study Rick as he spoke.

"Mom...” Rick swallowed hard. “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, clearly 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 allergy-related headaches. Keeping his head half frozen was the only way he got relief from the pain 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. Placing the ice bag on Rick's red and slightly swollen cheek.

"How does that feel? 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 okay?"

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.

"Yeah, I’m all right. Guess I was a little out of it when I got back, huh?”
“Just a little.”

“I'm okay 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’ll deal with it. I can’t live my life by what other people expect of me. I’m not going to let anyone tell me who I can love. Not even my parents.” He blew out a deep breath. "This shit has got to stop."

"What shit?" Dale questioned.

"All this emotional upheaval. I haven't cried 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. "Let’s 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 all right?"

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

Despite his earlier troubles, Rick 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 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 like a stag in rut. Dale reveled in it. When he woke the next morning it was with little surprise to find they’d slept late.

For 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 stated 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 Dale gasping 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 alive." 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.

Dale was on the second step with Rick just behind them when they heard a vehicle pull into the driveway. Rick descended the step and went to look out the window by the front door. A familiar truck was parked in the driveway. "Oh shit," he whispered, his erection deflating.

"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. 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 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. “I’m sorry, son.”

“About what, exactly,” Rick as cautiously.

“About not standing up for you yesterday.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. Come here, boy.”

Rick stepped into the arms his dad opened to him.

From inside the house, Dale watched them, relief and happiness making him smile. Rick's dad rocked him a bit, his hands patting Rick’s back. "I'm sorry son, I'm so sorry," he murmured.

Rick stepped back. "What are you sorry for? You’re not the one who hit me."

Gerald Hunter shook his head. "I know but 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."

"Yeah of course, come in." He opened the door, letting his dad precede him. Inside he introduced Dale. "Dad, this is Dale Vaden, my, um, lover.” Rick’s cheek’s reddened.

Despite his jittery nerves, he gave Rick a wicked, yet understanding 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. "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 this one get away from you. 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. 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."

"What do you mean?"

"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, 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 to be with him. One day I found out. I'm not going into the details, just suffice it to say that I found sex with women to be sweet and hot. Being with a woman made me feel strong and protective but being with a man was totally different. There 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. "Is it gettin' a little hot in here?"

Rick and Dale chuckled, sympathizing with how hard this confession had to be for the older man.

"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 momma."

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 that," Rick assured him. "So, what happens now? Is Mom prepared to accept Dale?"

Gerald shook his head. "Not yet, 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 their 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, just give it time." Gerald sighed, pushed his chair back and stood. "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."

"We will," 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, backed out of the driveway and 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....

*Footnote: Dale and Rick’s song is for real. It’s called Frightened by Toby Lightman. That song inspired this story.