Raven and Conrad

Where It All Began – Part 10

2010-04-21T03:50:00.000-07:00

Written by Brad

Three years had seemed to have passed by in slow motion, but in retrospect were gone in the blink of an eye.

Conrad had watched with joy as the budding friendship between his beloved Brat, Raven, and his best friend, Brandon, developed tentatively but steadily at first and then really caught on fire.

Over the short span of these three years, Conrad and Raven’s love for one another had deepened until it left the older man wondering if his Brat would be able to carry on without him. Although aware of neither man crossing the line, Conrad at times wondered if it had not been for his place in their lives, would Raven and Brandon have become lovers. Privately, Conrad hoped they would once he was out of the picture.

Even though Raven had always been included in and had even participated in the few traditions Conrad and Brandon had established over the years, he never did get the hang of socializing. But under Conrad’s firm guidance, he did learn to be polite in social situations.

For the most part during these three years, Brandon had maintained his hectic schedule of travelling around the country to collect data for the mysteries he wrote and promoting them once they were published. When home, he’d spend hours at the computer writing whatever book he was working on at the time.

Raven had experience mixed feelings whenever Brandon was off on one of his trips. He loved having his Top to himself, but at the same time missed the other man and always looked forward to his return.

The young man knew his worse fears were soon to come true as he gazed down at his sleeping lover. His heart tightened at the ever-present lines of discomfort on Conrad’s face and the sight of the once well-muscled body wasting away. Even in slumber, Conrad could not completely escape the pain.

Last month Raven had completed any obligations he had to his customers and had closed the shop for an indefinite period. He wanted to devote all his time to caring for Conrad. Brandon was away once again and Raven was on his own, which for the time being suited the young man just fine.

Raven sadly glanced at the empty wheelchair, now immobile against the far wall. It had not been used in almost two weeks and he missed the soft whirring sound it made when moving about.

He smiled when he saw Conrad’s eyes open and the older man croaked out a ‘Good morning, my beauty’.

“Mornin’, handsome; did you sleep well?” the younger man kept up a light conversation as he set about meeting his partner’s personal needs before getting him some breakfast.

The day pretty much fell into the pattern the two men had found worked best for both of them. Raven passing the time with household chores whenever Conrad was sleeping, which was the better part of the day. If Raven was lonely, he never mentioned it; nor did he ever let on whether or not he looked forward to their neighbours downstairs dropping by to check on them.

Time dragged on as the days melded together and Conrad grew weaker. He was no longer able to sit up for any length of time.

It was when Raven woke up to find himself lying in a wet bed once again, that he finally began to accept the end was near. He lovingly cleaned up his partner and changed the bedding.

“Send for Brandon, baby,” Conrad beseeched in a barely discernable voice.

Raven quickly left the room in order to hide the tears rolling down his face. He sat down at the computer and opened his email address book, clicking on the one he wanted.

‘Time to come home, Bran’ was all he wrote before hitting the ‘send’ button.

Brandon arrived two days later. He was greeted by their closest neighbours; Adrian with his partner Troy and Chad with his partner Devon. They were seated in the main room of the loft, looking solemn and resigned. It was clear the younger two men had been crying and still appeared very teary-eyed.

“We’ve been taking turns going in to see Conrad,” Adrian quietly informed him but didn’t volunteer anything more.

“Glad you made it in time, Brandon.” Chad seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.

Leaving his bags by the door, Brandon headed for the master bedroom. He found Raven curled up on the left side of the bed, next to his best friend. Conrad’s breathing was laboured and his eyes tightly closed.

Brandon sat down on the right of dying man and took Conrad’s thin hand in his own. He blinked back tears when his friend opened his eyes. Reaching over to gently run his hand through Raven’s long hair, Brandon softy requested a few minutes alone with Conrad. “I won’t keep you waiting long, honey. I promise.”

Five minutes later, Raven was back by Conrad’s side with his head nestled close to his partner’s heaving chest. He didn’t ask what the two men had talked about as he lacked the strength to even care for anything other that the man he had loved for the past three years.

“Who loves you more than life itself, Shop Kitten?” came the whispered question ever so softly next to his head.

“You do.” Raven’s voice broke.

“Who else?” Conrad insisted. Although extremely weak, his voice still held a spark of authority and Raven responded to it.

“I do.” It had taken almost two years for Conrad to drill that concept into his Brat’s head; most of it done via his backside.

“Thank you, my love,” were the last words Conrad uttered. His breathing slowed and in moments his chest stopped rising and falling.

Raven listened as his lover’s heart beat for the very last time, and then he began to wail. His entire body convulsed as he sobbed out his sorrow.

With tears streaming down his face, Brandon tenderly closed Conrad’s eyes and then reached over to offer comfort to the black-haired beauty on the other side of his deceased friend.

He allowed half an hour to pass while the sobbing gradually diminished before softly suggesting, “It’s time to go tell the others, Raven. It’s time to let him go, honey.”

Raven didn’t want to. He wasn’t near ready, but then he never would be if it had been left up to him.

Rising up onto his hands and knees, Raven looked at Conrad’s face; a face no longer showing signs of fatigue and illness. He glanced over his lover’s now still body; a body finally free of pain. He leaned over and placed a kiss on Conrad’s smooth brow. “I will love you forever; my rescuer, my hero, my love. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for loving me when no one else would. Please rest knowing I will be all right.”

As he pushed himself up and off the bed, the young man imagined he heard a sigh of contentment escape Conrad’s lips. It enabled him to finally acknowledge what was meant to be.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 9

2009-05-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

Brandon leaned against the counter and patiently waited for the water to drip through the coffee maker. He could hear the movements coming from the larger of the two bedrooms and knew he wasn’t the only one up.

Gathering the items he needed, he set about making breakfast. He smiled at the thought of Conrad hungrily digging into his infamous Eggs Benedict.

“Only fair,” Brandon grinned to himself. “He made my favs last night.”

He turned several minutes later when a door opened and Conrad wheeled into the room, followed closely by the black-haired beauty Brandon had met the night before.

“Morning, fellas!” he called out and carried on with what he was doing. “Coffee’s on.”

“I trust you slept well, Bran. Glad to be back in your own bed, I bet.” Conrad gratefully accepted the mug thrust at him.

Brandon glanced over at Raven, who was standing tensely behind Conrad, wordlessly and unsuccessfully pleading for sign of reprieve.

A few moments silence was broken when the young man reluctantly stepped forward and lifted his head to look Brandon in the eye.

“I’m sorry,” Raven mumbled, shamefaced. Conrad’s raised eyebrow had resulted in the tendered apology. Sighing deeply, he cleared his throat and added, “I was rude last night and I know it’s unacceptable. At least, that’s what Conrad’s been trying to drill into me.” He slid back to stand next to the wheelchair, relieved the apology was over and reassured by the look of approval on Conrad’s face.

Rolling up to his place at the table, Conrad enthusiastically commented. “Just wait ‘til you sink your teeth into this, baby. You’ll not get better Eggs Benedict anywhere.”

Raven eyed the plate in front of him with distaste. He had never been inclined to try something new and this looked foreign to him. He shifted slightly as his still-tender bottom reminded him of the consequences of rude behaviour. Knowing what was expected; Raven tentatively put a small amount in his mouth and grimaced at the taste.

Brandon’s dubious impression of the young man didn’t improve as he watched Raven painstakingly scrape the hollandaise sauce off the top of his egg. He shook his head and at Conrad’s wink, merely rolled his eyes.

Getting down the last of his breakfast proved a challenge to Raven, but he did it. Then getting to his feet, he mumbled a toneless ‘thanks’, kissed Conrad and left for work.

Brandon began gathering up the dirty dishes, his disgruntlement apparent. Pouring fresh coffee into his companion’s cup, he inquired. “Tell me again why he is here, Con. And why you put up with the little snot’s obnoxious behaviour?”

“I told you, Bran, I love that particular little snot....what more can I say?” Conrad laughed at his friend’s drawn-out groan of resignation.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Raven would forever consider the following week one of his least favourites. It seemed he and Brandon both, were born adversaries. Raven felt so threatened by the man’s presence and hated having to share Conrad’s time and attention. Something he had up until now considered exclusively his.

Twice, he had gone to bed early with swollen eyes and a sore backside. The only upside to that being Conrad’s warm body spooned behind him, as his partner never left him alone after chastisement. It was during these times of privacy that Raven would go on about his fears, to find only temporary respite in Conrad’s reassurances.

Raven had also development the habit of getting up, scoffing down a bowl of cold cereal and taking off for the better part of the day.

But today, nothing could get him down. Today was special and he could hardly wait to get home and tell Conrad the news.

He rushed through the elevator doors as soon as they opened, raced across the open expanse of the loft and the outside deck. He skidded to a stop next to Conrad’s chair and began to chatter excitedly.

“Raven, you can see Bran and I were talking,” Conrad admonished. “How about showing some manners and waiting until we were finished or at least saying excuse me.”

Raven’s cheeks darkened as he glanced back and fore between the two men. “Sorry,” he murmured. His shoulders slumped and he dejectedly back away from them and re-entered the loft.

He had almost made it back to the elevator when he heard the faint whir of the wheelchair and Conrad’s soft voice calling out to him.

Conrad had seen the hurt look on the young man’s face and guilt overtook him. He went after Raven without giving Bran a second thought; his Brat came first.

“Raven, I’m sorry,” Conrad called. “Please come and talk to me, babe.” He held out his hands and was rewarded with his lover’s warm smile and even warmer body joining him in the chair.

“It wasn’t much,” Raven lied and shrugged his shoulders. He relaxed against Conrad as the wheelchair was steered back onto the deck.

“Ah, ah, ah, Shop Kitten; you know how I feel about misrepresenting the truth,” the older man gently scolded.

Picking up the smile in his lover’s voice, Raven lifted his head to look into Conrad’s warm hazel eyes and contentedly returned the smile.

Before Raven could respond, an announcement on the radio attracted his attention. “Listen to that, Con,” he requested.

“The newly decorated 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16 belonging to a well-known celebrity will be unveiled at four o’clock this afternoon.”

“It’s finished,” Raven announced with delight. “Right on time too. I came to get you for a private viewing before they take it away.” His face lit up and his black eyes were sparkling with enthusiasm. His stunning expression very nearly took Conrad’s breath away.

“Then what are we waiting for?” Conrad laughed and patted Raven’s hip as a sign to get up. “Raven, love, is it all right for Brandon to accompany us?”

“Sure, why not?” Raven was hyped and nothing or no one was going to interfere with his moment in the sun. Conrad was coming to see his triumph and that was all that mattered.

Fifteen minutes later, two men were slowly moving around and inspecting Raven’s handiwork. They were beyond impressed; they were spellbound by the genius evident in the young man’s creative achievement.

“This is a one-of-a-kind work of art,” Conrad murmured, his chest swelling with pride in his talented partner.

“Whoa, I’m never seen anything so magnificent,” Brandon sincerely stated in an awed voice as he reverently ran his hand over the hood. “I’m a classic car enthusiast and in all my travels I’ve yet to see one as splendid as this.”

He glanced up at Raven and in that moment the two antagonists found a common ground to begin building a friendship on.

Conrad sat back and just enjoyed the sight of the two most important people in his world finally discovering something that was of interest to both of them.

He smiled knowingly when Raven and Brandon stopped conversing long enough to look his way.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 8

2009-05-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

Brandon stood on the curb looking up at the old brownstone building. ‘God, it’s good to be home!’ He smiled when the large front doors to ‘The Locker Room’ opened and two men exited the gym.

“Hi there! Welcome home, Brandon!” Troy called out before running over to embrace him. “Conrad told us you were due back today.”

“Hey, it’s been a while, man!” Devon greeted, pushing his way into the big man’s arms. “A hell of a long six weeks!” he griped even though his ear-to-ear grin was somewhat weakening his complaint.

“Well, I must admit it’s great to be back on familiar turf,” Brandon laughed at the younger men’s excitement. “How have things been going? Anything new?”

“Not much. You know, same old-same old,” Troy responded with a shrug of his broad shoulders.

“Did Conrad mention the ‘blackbird’ to ya?” Devon asked, then immediately looked uncomfortable when Troy punched him on the arm.

“Explanation, please?” Brandon raised an eyebrow.

“Aah, just forget I said anything, pleeease Brandon,” Devon begged, turning worry-filled, green eyes upwards.

“Let me guess. Mouth engaged before brain in gear, right?” the older man teased, well aware of the younger man having been punished in the past for talking out of line.

“Yeah, kinda,” Devon answered, an embarrassing blush staining his cheeks.

“All right, mum’s the word, kid.” Brandon landed a swat on the seat of Devon’s jeans. “I’ll see you fellas later, okay? Right now, I’m anxious to touch base with Conrad and see how he’s doing.”

With duffel bag and briefcase in hand, Brandon entered the door next to the gym, walked down the hall and stepped into the unoccupied elevator. The closer he rose to his destination, stronger grew the aroma of his favourite meal cooking. Arriving at the top floor, he waited impatiently for the doors to slide open and then, for the first time in three months, set foot inside the loft he shared with his best friend.

Brandon placed his luggage against the wall, hung up his jacket and grinned at the sound of Conrad’s approaching wheelchair. He knelt to embrace his friend and tenderly kissed Conrad’s lips. “God, I’ve missed you, old man!” he murmured. His eyes filled as he gave himself up to the older, stronger man’s encompassing embrace.

“You’ll have plenty of time to un-miss me, because I don’t plan to let you leave the loft for a least a week,” Conrad huskily responded before clearing his throat and pushing Brandon to arms’ length to look at his handsome face.

Feeling the eyes of another, Brandon turned to see a slim, young man standing in the doorway of Conrad’s bedroom, glaring at him. Brandon could just stare. The man had black eyes behind long lashes, thick blue-black hair with matching eyebrows, high cheekbones, a small straight nose and sensuous lips, presently thinned in anger. An elegant strength exuded from him.

Brandon was dumbfounded to find himself physically attracted to the beautiful creature. He felt his balls tighten and the front of his pants tent.

Turning back, Brandon raised a quizzical eyebrow. “You’ve a guest, Con?”

“Not exactly,” was the teasing response. Conrad knew what his friend was asking due to their long-time brotherhood but chose not to answer him just yet. “Bran, I’d like you to meet Raven Croix Hunter. Raven, this is my best friend, Brandon Wyatt. I’ve been telling you a lot about him over the past three months. Come and say Hello.”

‘Raven! The Blackbird!’ Brandon thought with a smile. ‘Only not a blackbird; more like a deer!’ was the older man’s first impression. He held out his hand and was astonished when the man stalked by them without saying a word and sat down at the dining room table. He was further surprised when Conrad did nothing about it.

“You must be hungry, Bran. I’ve made your favs; Lasagne, garlic bread, and a Caesar salad; served with a red wine.”

Brandon followed the other man across the room and both made themselves comfortable. Each man served himself while maintaining light conversation. That is Brandon and Conrad conversed, Raven didn’t say a word. Instead he sat there with his eyes down and a dark scowl marring what Brandon realized was an exceptionally beautiful face.

‘Besides his beauty, what in the hell does Con see in this uncouth creature? The kid obviously has no social skills,’ Brandon thought as he quietly observed the obnoxious, black-haired man.

“More wine, Bran?” Conrad asked, holding out the bottle and pouring when his question resulted in an affirmative nod. “Sorry, Shop Kitten, you know the rules,” he softly reminded when Raven pushed his glass forward, wordlessly hinting for a refill.

The meal was finished in relative quiet, as Raven’s glowering at Conrad and his unmannerly attitude made for an uncomfortable atmosphere.

“Why don’t we take our coffee out to the deck, Bran?” Conrad suggested, thus bring the meal to an end, much to Brandon’s relief. “Raven, I prepared this homecoming feast so I‘d appreciate you taking care of the cleanup for me while Bran and I catch each other up.”

As the two older men made their way out through the large French doors, the younger one got up and started gathering up the dirty dishes. Brandon and Conrad could sense Raven’s disgruntlement even outside. The noise the young man was making made it impossible to miss.

“Okay, Con! What gives?” Brandon quietly demanded, nodding his head towards the interior of the loft and the sounds coming from it.

“Long story, Bran.” Conrad smiled into his coffee cup. He was fully aware of his companion’s insatiable curiosity.

“I’ve plenty of time, but getting real short on patience!” Brandon grumbled. “When and where the hell did you find him and what in the name of God is he doing here?”

“Two days after you left town, I found him face-down, drunk as a skunk and sick as a dog, in the gutter in front of the Paradise Club where he had spent the better part of the evening knocking back one shooter after another.”

“Okay, and Good Samaritan that you are, you had to bring him home,” Brandon stated rather than asked. “So why is he still here?”

“In a nut shell? Because we needed each other, Bran! It’s just that simple,” was Conrad’s brief explanation.

“Oh brother!” Brandon groaned, leaning his head on the back of his chair and looking up at the darkening sky. Sighing in resignation and turning towards the other man, he calmly inquired. “How did you manage to get him home? Wait, don’t tell me! You persuaded Adrian and Chad to help you.”

“You got it. Not that they were exactly thrilled with the idea and even less so when Raven became a permanent part of my life.” Conrad smirked as some of their friends’ uncomplimentary comments came to mind.

“I can just imagine.” Brandon took a mouthful of coffee and swallowed it. “So why didn’t you mention this change in our living arrangements in any of the e-mails we exchanged on a daily basis?”

“I figured it would be easier to just introduce you two when you finally managed to get home. I didn’t realize at the time, that you would be gone three months instead of the originally planned six weeks.”

“Thought you’d surprise me, right?”

“And did I?”

“What the hell do you think?” Brandon was totally unimpressed with his friend’s laughter.

Turning serious, Conrad confided. “I love him, Bran. I can’t explain it, but I do. And by the grace of God, he loves me. He is a gorgeous, healthy, young man while here I am; a useless old cripple confined to a wheelchair for the rest of my life.”

“What the hell are you talking about? You are far from useless and I’m sure we’ve had this discussion before. And I for one don’t consider you crippled, old man.” Brandon laughed at the other man’s derisive snort. “But, for shit-sake, Con, the kid has the social acumen of a…”

“Lone wolf?” Conrad finished. “A wild animal ostracized by the pack. Try not to prejudge him, Bran. He’s running scared. Even though he knew this day would come, your return has unsettled him. He doesn’t do change well.”

“Con?” The two men glanced towards the opened patio doors at the sound of the softly spoken name. “I finished and thought I’d let you know I’m going for a run,” Raven informed his partner.

“Wait a sec, love, while I call down and see if someone is available to go with you.” Conrad pulled out his cell-phone and started to dial.

“Give me a break, Conrad! I don’t need a babysitter!” The young man’s cheeks colored with embarrassment as he glared at the older one.

“Hello, Adrian. I got a Brat here chompin’ at the bit. Anyone down there feel up to running in the fresh air of this fair city of ours?” Conrad chuckled and snapped the phone shut. “Chad will go with you, Raven.”

“But I’d rather go alone!” Raven griped and he bestowed an award-winning pout on the physically-challenged man.

“You know the rules, Raven. You have someone with you or you stay home. It is your choice.”

“Shit, just one more stupid rule to drive me nuts. As if there weren’t already enough.” Raven’s mumbled complaints faded as he entered the elevator and jabbed angrily at the button to close the doors.

“Coffee’s cold,” Conrad announced. “Let’s go inside and get another cup.”

“What’s with the ‘no running alone’ rule?” Brandon questioned, getting up and following his friend.

“Just a precaution. There’s been a couple of gay-bashing incidents over the last few weeks.”

Brandon just shook his head and sighed his sorrow over the disheartening news.

“So, tell me about your trip, Bran.”

“Well as you know, aside from taking longer than hoped for, the first two investigations went fairly smoothly. A lot of research and footwork but both cold cases are now solved and closed. It was the third unexpected case I was unable to walk away from that proved to be so very time-consuming.”

“But with your help, the authorities finally have the perpetrator behind bars. And you must admit, you gathered a lot of fodder for your next book.” Conrad handed Brandon a fresh mug of black coffee.

“I almost didn’t take that last case due to the Chief of Detectives’ obvious disapproval, but I’m glad I changed my mind. The primary officer had since retired but still maintained his original notes and was a tremendous help. Of course, he had a personal stake in the case, as the victim was his Goddaughter. He and the girl’s family were relieved to have at long last found closure. That in itself made it worthwhile.”

Brandon snickered as he shared a memory. “I graciously accepted the Chief’s parting grunt as a sign of appreciation for all I had accomplished.” At this, Conrad joined in the laughter.

The men continued bringing each other up-to-date on the events surrounding their three-month separation. Their conversation was interrupted an hour later by Raven crashing into the loft. His frame of mind did not seem to be that much better than when he had left. He went straight to his room without saying a word.

“Raven!” Conrad called out, with the only reply that of the sound of water being turned on in the shower.

Once again, Brandon was surprised by his friend’s lack of response to the kid’s behavior.

Fifteen uncomfortable minutes passed by, before Raven appeared at the door of his and Conrad’s bedroom. He was wearing black silk boxers, his freshly washed hair flowing free of the confining braid and hanging well below his waist. He stood there shuffling from one foot to another and had the good grace to look ashamed.

“Come here, Raven!” Conrad commanded, keeping his voice low in light of the tentative expression on the young man’s face. Raven slowly moved forward but stopped a few feet from the wheelchair. “Closer, please,” Conrad insisted and, when the young man was within reach, the ex-police officer grabbed Raven’s arm and firmly guided him around to the front of the chair and unto his lap.

Brandon quietly watched the transformation taking place before him. He marvelled at Conrad’s patience and distinct understanding of his young lover.

For several moments Raven rigidly held his body upright prior to relaxing into Conrad’s loving arms. Shoulders shook as silent tears were shed and a sincere ‘I’m sorry’ was repeatedly murmured.

“You will apologize to Brandon, Shop-kitten,” Conrad sternly instructed. “First thing in the morning,” he relented when he felt Raven tense up, recognizing it as a sign of over-stretched nerves. He knew his partner’s limits.

“Who loves you, Baby?”

“You do,” came the whispered reply.

“And who do you love?”

“You, only you!”

“Not quite. Who else do you love, little one?” Conrad lovingly prodded and waited in the long drawn-out silence that followed. He was just about ready to repeat the question when he picked-up on the barely audible, “Me.” Conrad smiled and gently kissed the damp, black hair on the head nestling into his shoulder. “That’s right,” he said before rolling his eyes at the added “Sometimes!” and deciding not to push further. ‘Pick your battles,’ he reminded himself.

“We are going into our room and taking care of this appalling display you’ve subjected us to. Then we are going to bed as you are evidently over-tired.” Conrad said goodnight to Brandon and wheeled out of the room.

Brandon waited until the bedroom door closed, to get up. He took the dirty coffee cups into the kitchen to rinse out and leave in the drain-board to air-dry. He winced as he heard the unmistakable sounds of a bare-bottom spanking. Picking up his luggage, he carried it into his room to begin the arduous task of unpacking. He was home and that’s all that matter for the time being. Additional questions and concerns could wait until morning.

The End.

Where It All Began - Part 7

2009-05-01T11:22:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

“I’m glad you were all able to join us for supper,” Conrad addressed his guests. “I had two reasons for wanting you here. First, is to celebrate Raven’s latest accomplishments. He has won the bid to paint a sports car belonging to a local celebrity.” Conrad’s pride in the young man was evident in the beaming smile softening his often too-serious face.

“Congratulations, Raven!” Adrian’s booming voice held honest sincerity.

“What make is the car?” Chad asked, knowing Raven would be more interested in talking about the car than about its’ owner.

“A 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4, and it was a real challenge to come up with a design worthy of that beautiful vehicle. I was just lucky to be chosen,” Raven shyly volunteered this information.

“There was no luck involved, Raven. Yours was the best design and that’s all there is to it,” Conrad firmly reminded the young man.

“You sure you didn’t pay someone, Con?” Devon snidely joked.

“It is highly unlikely anyone could have been bought off to begin with, Devon,” Conrad reprimanded with a cold look of disapproval.

Devon had the good grace to blush, even though he was having a hard time withholding the smirk triggered by Troy nudging him under the table.

Conrad’s warm smile offer reassurance and Raven shyly returned it. The older man was pleased to see his loft-mate relax and resume eating his meal, or at least pretend to.

“And the second reason for you wanting us here, Con?” Chad asked out of curiosity.

“Brandon is due home tomorrow.”

“Yippee!” Devon exclaimed excitedly. “I can’t wait to see him again!”

“Man, he’s been gone like forever!” Troy’s face lit up in anticipation of their friend’s much waited-for return.

“Wonder what he’s going to say when he gets a load of Raven here?” Devon tried but failed to keep the comment frivolous.

Raven’s face turned a deep red, even his ears burned. He didn’t know if he was embarrassed, hurt or just plain pissed-off. He felt like getting up from the table and storming out but refrained from doing so, probably saving himself a sore backside in the process.

“That was rude and totally uncalled for, Devon!” Chad sternly scolded his partner.

“It was a joke,” Devon explained.

“Then it was in poor taste and you’ll apologize immediately!” Chad ordered.

“Come on, Chad. I didn’t mean anything by it,” Devon insisted, even knowing no one believed him.

“You can say you’re sorry now or after we have availed ourselves of Brandon’s bedroom,” Chad crossly stated.

Recognizing the threat and knowing beyond a doubt it would be carried out, Devon shamefacedly mumbled. “I’m sorry for saying what I said.”

“Apology accepted,” Conrad acknowledged with a brief nod. “I do have a favor to ask of you all. Brandon has been away for three months and I would appreciate a couple of days for us to catch up.”

“In other words, you’d prefer none of us waylay and involve him in endless conversations on what has or has not been happening during his absence,” Adrian clarified, looking pointedly at his partner, Troy.

“Hmm, something like that,” Conrad laughed.

“In truth, what you’re delicately asking is for us to sod off and give you guys some space,” Chad teased, although his tone demonstrated understanding.

“Yes, exactly!” Conrad emphatically concurred, much to the amusement of his friends.

“But…” Devon’s attempt to disagree was nip in the bud by Chad’s raised eyebrow.

“Let’s take our coffee out to the deck where it’s a bit cooler,” Conrad suggested.

As the others got up from the table and headed outside, Raven quietly offered to wash up from the meal Conrad had prepared. Conrad would have liked to refuse but strongly suspected the younger man needed to be alone.

Raven felt unsettled by Brandon’s pending return. Devon’s comment hadn’t help ease the tension Raven was barely able to keep under wraps and neither had two days of Conrad’s enthusiastic commentary about his long-time friend, their shared interests and the activities they had enjoyed together.

Raven breathed a sigh of relief when the finishing of his self-assigned chore coincided with their guests’ departure. ‘Talk about good fortune,’ he thought. He obeyed Conrad’s beckoning finger and soon found himself comfortably seated on the big man’s lap.

“You did fine tonight, Shop-kitten,” Conrad praised. “I know how anxious you are about Brandon’s homecoming, I’m just not sure why.”

Raven shrugged and burrowed deeper into Conrad’s embrace.

“Talk to me, baby. Please,” Conrad whispered into the black hair beneath his chin.

“What if he doesn’t want me here? What if he persuades you to get rid of me?” Raven murmured his greatest fears.

“That’s not going to happen. Although Bran and I have been in touch throughout his travels, I have not yet told him about us. I wanted him to me you face-to-face first.” Conrad felt Raven tense up. “Do you trust me, little one?” he softly requested confirmation of something he already knew.

“Yes, I trust only you!” Raven avowed once again.

“I have a special treat in mind for you. I want you to go into our room, turn down the blankets, strip and get on the bed. I’ll join you shortly.” Conrad gently swatted Raven’s butt to get him moving before the young man started asking questions.

Raven did as he was told and stretched out on the bed he had been sleeping in since the first time they made love over a month ago. With his hands behind his head, he lay on his back and waited. He closed his eyes and willed himself to relax as he listened to the calming hum of the wheelchair as Conrad moved around the en suite. Scratching his crotch, he made a mental note to get rid of the itchy hair growth first thing in the morning.

After turning off all but one lamp, Conrad placed the supplies he had gathered on the night table and shifted himself onto the bed beside his young lover. He ran a large hand lovingly down the length of Raven’s beautiful supple body. He knew every inch, every curve and angle, and every erogenous spot. He gazed into the black eyes surrounded by long black lashes; lashes that cast shadows over high cheek bones and accented the overall beauty of their owner’s face.

“Spread your legs, Raven,” Conrad instructed, “and stay very still.”

Raven glanced up to see a can of shaving cream and razor in the older man’s hands. A perplexed frown marred his handsome face. “I usually use a chemical depilatory, Con.”

“Yes, but I want to do it this time.” Conrad proceeded to slowly spread the cream over his lover’s pubic area. Next, he gently shaved away all traces of unwanted hair as Raven’s cock hardened.

The act signified trust and intimacy, and resulted in the special bond between them growing stronger. It also heightened their sexual imagination and was a stimulating prelude to sex.

Lastly, Conrad washed away the remaining traces of shaving cream and patted the freshly shorn area dry. Leaning down, he breathed in the clean scent before taking Raven’s erection into his mouth and beginning to suck. He gently fondled the smooth balls, then slipped his middle finger into Raven’s body and lightly brushed the prostate. He grinned when the young man groaned and raise his butt off the bed.

Conrad stopped sucking. He wouldn’t allow Raven to climax. He licked Raven’s balls and then used his tongue to wipe away the precum as he withdrew his finger.

Raven moaned his disappointment until he felt the bigger man’s body lying next to his own. He submitted to Conrad’s manipulations until he was sitting on the older man’s hips with Conrad’s engorged penis deeply embedded in his body. Raven began to move up and down, establishing a rhythm and steadily building towards an orgasm.

“No,” Conrad whispered, taking Raven’s hands in his. “Let my being inside you be enough for you to cum.”

Heart rates increased and internal organs contracted, finally culminating in crashing climaxes. Conrad shot into Raven’s body while Raven shot over Conrad’s stomach and chest.

Raven collapsed on his lover and rested there as their bodies reverted to a normal state. “Man, I think I’ve died or something,” he tiredly mumbled.

Conrad eventually pulled out of Raven’s body and moved the young man off him. Both were sticky with semen and sweat. Conrad reached for the towel he had used earlier and cleaned first his partner and then himself. He turned off the bedside lamp, pulled his well-satiated and sleeping lover into his arms, lovingly kissed Raven’s forehead and fell asleep.

Tomorrow would bring new challenges.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 6

2009-05-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

Raven leaned against the frame of the patio door leading from his room to the deck. He gazed up at the night sky, relishing the cooling breeze blowing across his heated flesh. He let his mind replay the mind-blowing events of the day, his excitement returning.

************

This morning’s meeting had not gone remotely like Raven had imagined it would. The meeting he had thought would last only a few tense-filled minutes ended a couple of hours after he and Mr. Campbell had introduced themselves. Raven had rushed home to share the news with Conrad.

“So I didn’t lose my job after all!” Raven excited informed his friend as he circled the room once again. “In fact, it’s better than ever ‘cause the new owners have asked me to sort of take over the entire operation.”

“And you feel comfortable doing that?” Conrad asked, wondering if the young man realized all that would entail. Raven was an artist, not an entrepreneur.

“Well, there are going to be a lot of changes. First off, anything to do with the mechanical repair end of the business is being done away with. The entire place is going to be gutted and painted; a down-draft system is going to be installed. Even the outside of the building will be given a new face-lift. We will no longer be doing body repair either; only specialized one-of-a-kind paint jobs. I’ll get to make my own designs and templates; show them to the customer who then chooses which one he wants and what colors.”

“And just who does the bookwork, the ordering of supplies, promoting and advertising, bill paying, etc while you color?” Conrad laughed at the younger man’s stance of hands on hips and bogus frown of annoyance at his teasing. He knew it would take a lot to ruffle Raven’s feathers at this particular time.

“Mr. Campbell told me one of the new owners had connections to several body shops that were unable to do customized designs but were willing to refer their customers to me. He also told me that they had their own accountant and PR people, but that I’d have the shop to myself unless I felt the need to hire an assistant.” Raven was almost bouncing with pent-up energy as he began pacing again. “Man, I can’t wait to get started.”

“I’m so sorry I played the ogre and forced you into meeting with this guy,” Conrad teased with a self-satisfied smile. He had never seen Raven so full of life. The young man was absolutely stunning; his black eyes sparkling, his waist-length hair flowing out behind him as he moved around the loft. His movements were unconsciously graceful, almost sensual, and very beautiful to watch.

Raven stopped in his tracks and turned to face the man in the wheelchair.

The man, who had taken him in, provided refuge and more importantly, offered a desperately needed friendship. This wonderful man, who had put up with his mood swings and his lack of social skills; had given in to his need for personal space. This man who was willing to teach him how to love himself and hopefully to trust others, and the one who was steadily becoming the pivotal person in his world.

Raven knelt in front of Conrad and looked deeply into his smiling hazel eye. “I-I don’t know how to thank you for all you’ve done for me, Conrad. You really are the best thing that ever happened to me.” Although meaning it with all his heart, Raven felt his words were inadequate.

“Likewise, my friend! You owe me nothing, as you’re having given me a new lease on life is payment enough.” Conrad reached out and tenderly caressed Raven’s cheek. “Humph,” he cleared his throat of lump forming there.

“You’re the only one I trust, Conrad,” Raven softly declared.

“Do you still maintain that I am the first one other than your mother and grandfather?” Conrad gently asked.

Raven sat back in the corner of the big chesterfield to give Conrad’s question some serious thought.

“Two,” he murmured, “before you. An elderly neighbor lady who lived in the house next door to one of the foster homes I’d been dumped in when I was about fifteen. She used to take me in when the people I was staying with locked me out.”

“Why would they do that, Raven?”

“They didn’t trust me in their home unsupervised, but didn’t want to take me anywhere with them,” the young man quietly explained. “Inez was her name. She called herself a war-bride. She was really very old or so it seemed to me at the time. All the years in the system and I only cried the one time. It was when she died. I was dumped somewhere else after that.”

“Who was the other one, Raven?”

“My senior high art teacher, Mr. Rydell. He encouraged my art form. He’d allow me to paint anything I wanted during class. He even let me paint his car when the auto-body instructor refused to give me a chance on an old beater his students were working on.”

Conrad nodded his understanding. He felt he was making headway in helping Raven recognize the kindnesses the young man had encountered even if they had been few and far between.

************

Raven turned to stare at the closed door that separated his room from Conrad’s. Walking across the floor, he opens it as quietly as possible and peered into the shadows.

His eyes slowly adjusted to the moonlight filtering through the window curtains, allowing him to make out the man stretched out on his back in the large double bed.

He took his time to appreciate Conrad’s striking features. In sleep, the man’s face gave no indication of the times when its’ beauty was marred by lines of pain and fatigue. Raven tried hard to commit to memory the naked body that even in sleep exuded a sense of strength and power. How he would have loved to touch, to kiss, to taste and explore it. He felt himself harden at the thought of being screwed by the cock that presently lay flaccid against its owner’s left leg.

As he continued to stare at the object of his desires, Raven saw it take on a life of its’ own as it too began to harden. How long had Conrad been awake and aware of being studied?

With heart beating faster, Raven raised his eyes and gazed into Conrad’s smoldering hazel ones. Though no words were spoken, the invitation was clear. Raven hesitantly approached the bed and stopped beside it.

“Come to me,” Conrad whispered and Raven could no more refuse that he could cease to draw breath.

Curled up next to Conrad, Raven sighed with delight as the big man’s hands moved over his body, removing his underwear in the process.

“Do you keep your entire body shaved, Raven?” Conrad asked as he caressed areas of the young man’s anatomy where hair should have been but wasn’t.

“Yes, I enjoy the sensations of my clothes rubbing against me. It’s why I wear silk boxers. Besides, it heightens sexual awareness,” Raven purred as his balls were gently fondled.

“I take it you are not inexperienced then,” Conrad commented.

“I’ve had many one-night stands, too many in fact; all very much same-old, same-old.”

‘No emotional involvement,’ Conrad thought, determined to make this night different as he drew Raven closer.

The two men were amazed at how well their bodies conformed to each other and touching became their method of communicating as they took their time to learn of one another’s preferences.

Raven quickly picked up on the signals; one of which was that Conrad topped exclusively. This suited the young man fine as he preferred to bottom. Nor was Raven disappointed once he became conscious of Conrad’s expertise as a lover.

Spooned behind the smaller man, Conrad firmly pressed his well-lubed, condom-encased cock against Raven’s puckered opening and slowly entered the other man’s body. After allowing time for adjustment, the big man utilized his upper-body strength to move Raven and gradually established the tempo that led them both to a glorious climate.

It was in the aftermath of their lovemaking that Raven wondered if he was getting in over his head. He was experiencing new, never-before-felt emotions and was unnerved by them.

‘Am I setting myself up to be hurt?’ he silently questioned; then somehow managed to convince himself, ‘What the hell, if it gets too intense, I can always walk away.’

……but can he?

The End

Where It All Began - Part 5

2009-05-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

The sun was sinking in the western sky when Raven slowed to a full stop and parked his motorcycle in its’ designated spot in the garage at the back of the brownstone building that housed the loft, his usually placid features mirroring apprehension. “Maybe I shouldn’t have taken off like I did,” he muttered as he seconded guessed his badly thought out actions.

He turned off the motor, removed his helmet and swung his leg over the seat of the bike. He was pulling off his gloves and nearing the elevator when the doors slid opened and two of his least favorite people stepped out.

“Well, it about time you showed up!” Troy berated. “Where the hell have you been all day?”

“You’ve really blown it this time, dick-head!” Devon sneered. “Conrad is pissed enough to finally give you your walking papers.”

“Fuck off!” Raven retorted angrily as he punched the button to close the doors on their self-satisfied smirks.

Minutes late, Raven entered the loft and removed his boots. Hearing the low humming drawing nearer, he turned to find himself facing a very irate ex-cop. Raven lost the ensuing staring match and dropped his eyes. He twisted at the fringe on his jacket and waited for the words telling him to pack up and get out.

Unable to withstand the uncomfortable silence, Raven opted for going into defense mode and angrily spat out, “Okay, you don’t have to say it! I’ll just get my stuff and get out of your life.” He glared at Conrad, fully anticipating the older man’s agreement that parting company was for the best.

Instead he heard a soft, slightly exasperated question. “What happened, Raven?” Getting a shrug, Conrad commented. “I was worried about you.”

It took several moments for Raven to realize Conrad had not agreed to him leaving; at least not before some questions were answered. Raven drew in a deep breath and tried to calm down enough to talk coherently.

“I’m sorry for worrying you but I got to the shop early and it gave me too much time to think.” Raven started pacing; getting himself more wounded up with every other step. He stopped and spun around to face his interrogator. “I suddenly wondered what the hell I was hanging around for. Why should I give this guy the pleasure of telling me to my face that my services were no longer required? So I got on my bike and I was out of there.”

“Did it ever cross your mind that Mr. Campbell might have something else to discuss with you?” Conrad struggled to keep his voice free of censure.

“Get real, man! What else could there possibly be to talk about?” Raven scowled at the older man.

“You will have to wait until tomorrow to find out,” Conrad quietly informed him.

“What? This guy a little slow or something? Can’t he take a hint?” he scoffed as he took off his jacket and hung it up.

“Maybe for some reason known only to the new owners, or at least one of them, you seem to be worth the effort being made on your behalf. Not everyone is out to get you, Raven. Get rid of that chip on your shoulder and give yourself a break. At this point, what have you got to lose?”

“Okay! What the hell! If it means so much to you, I’ll see this Mr. Campbell or whatever his name is,” Raven grumbled, still not happy with the situation.

“Good choice.” For a brief moment Conrad smiled in the face of the other man’s angry glower before sternly bringing up another matter. “Now we just have today’s rudeness to take care of.” He purposefully raised the arms on his wheelchair.

Raven blanched as comprehension hit him. He slowly shook his head at Conrad’s softly spoken “Come here, please.” He accepted his deserving of castigation but was unable to take the next step. “I-I can’t,” he implored.

“I am not coming after you, Raven. I expect you to exhibit some submission. Get over here and lower your pants.” Conrad sat patiently waiting and watched as the indecision was slowly replaced by resolve.

Raven stepped over to the older man’s right side. “This is the best I can do, Conrad,” he whispered and almost sighed with relief when Conrad’s hands lifted to undo his belt and unzip his fly before lowering his jeans and boxers. He complied with the gentle tug that ended with him facing the floor from across rock-hard thighs.

The spanking that followed more than adequately expressed Conrad’s disapproval and drove home the point that disrespect and lack of consideration for others were inappropriate behaviors.

Several minutes later, after the chastiser had turned comforter, Raven found himself sitting on the lap he had been lying over. Soothing words were being spoken and the hard hand that had been setting his butt on fire was now rubbing comforting circles on his back.

“Who cares for you, Raven?” Conrad’s gentle voice overrode the remaining hitches and sniffles. Not receiving an answer, he squeezed the man in his arms and prodded. “Someone cares about you, little one. Tell me who it is.”

“Nobody.”

“That’s not true.” Conrad landed another swat on the already sore bottom.

“Oww!” Raven yelped and reached around to swipe at the other man’s hand. “I guess you do,” he begrudgingly admitted.

“Anyone else?” Conrad used his handkerchief to wipe the tears from Raven’s damp cheeks.

“No!”

Conrad let it go as he wheeled them into Raven’s bedroom and after helping the younger man out of his clothes, waited for him to lie face down on his bed, then pulled the blankets over him. He left the room only to return shortly with a small tray.

“I bet you haven’t eaten a bite since breakfast,” Conrad commented as he set his offering next to Raven’s pillow.

Raven glanced at the comfort food consisting of a peanut butter and jam sandwich, homemade oatmeal-raisin cookies and a large glass of milk before raising his eyes to Conrad’s. It was on his lips to claim he wasn’t hungry just as his stomach made its’ emptiness known.

Fifteen minutes later, Conrad brushed the long black hair away from the sleeping man’s face. ‘When did I fall in love with him?’ he wondered. ‘God, I hope he stays around long enough for me to meet his needs and help him heal,’ he silently prayed as he wheeled out of the room with the used plate and glass resting on the tray on his lap.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 4

2009-05-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

Raven stepped off the elevator ahead of Conrad. “Man, it’s good to be home!” he exclaimed. He stopped suddenly and spun around to stare at his companion, a wide-eyed expression of consternation on his handsome face. When had he started referring to the loft as ‘home’? He had never once considered any of the numerous places he had lived in since leaving the reservation, home.

‘Shit, I better get this out of my head, ‘cause it will only lead to disappointment,’ he thought with self-derision. “I’ll just put my bag in the bedroom, Conrad.” His attempt at distracting from his unintended revelation was unsuccessful.

“You’re heading in the wrong direction, kid.” Conrad wheeled towards his own bedroom. “I’ve a surprise for you.” He was pleased with what Raven’s declaration had revealed.

Opening a door on the far side of his room, Conrad invited Raven to enter. “It’s all yours, a space of your own for as long as you want. We can share the master bath.”

Raven walked into the ten-by-twelve ex-storage area to see it had been completely transformed. Gone were the boxes of rarely used clothing, shelves of old books and magazines, along with the miscellaneous items that had all but been forgotten. Instead there was a single bed, a nightstand, a chest of drawers and a small workstation.

“Where’s all the junk that was in here?” Raven bluntly inquired.

Conrad laughed at Raven’s lack of artfulness. “Most of it made its’ way to the trash bin where it should have been long ago. Brandon’s ‘junk’ as you refer to it, is in a locker in the basement.”

“So this means I won’t have to leave when your friend gets home?”

“You got it, kid!” Conrad smiled at the man’s shy grin of pleasure and watched as Raven walked over to the French doors that opened out onto the deck. “You have to go through my room to get to yours from inside the loft, but you have our own entrance from outside.”

“When did you install the new doorway and get everything fixed up?” Raven was having trouble taking it all in.

“While you were in the hospital; had a little help from some friends. We just finished this morning before I went to fetch you.”

“Thanks, man. This is great!” Raven considered his words inadequate in expressing how he felt at the moment. He worked at swallowing the lump in his throat. He turned and for the first time noticed his art portfolio lying on the bed. He glanced uncomfortably at Conrad.

“Adrian found it under Brandon’s bed. Don’t worry, Raven, no one looked in it and would not, without your permission.” Conrad heard the sigh of relief and noticed the relaxed stance. “Let's go to the living room to have our talk. It will be more comfortable there.”

Raven complied with the suggestion and followed the older man’s lead. He stood by as Conrad maneuvered himself out of his wheelchair and onto one of the leather sofas.

“I’m getting a drink, want one?”

“Yes, please. Orange juice will do.”

Handing Conrad a glass, Raven informed him of his thoughts. “I just want to let you know up front that my listening to what you have to say doesn’t automatically mean I’m agreeing with it.”

“Fair enough.” Conrad smiled and kept his eyes on the other man as Raven took a seat across from him. “Although I was planning to ask questions first.”

“What kind of questions?” Raven asked, misgiving causing his eyes to narrow.

“Tell me, Raven, who have you loved besides your mother and grandfather?”

“Why would it be necessary for me to love anyone?”

“It’s not, and I guess that answers that question. Has there ever been anyone you cared about or looked up to?” Conrad watched his companion shift uncomfortably and wasn’t surprised when Raven resorted to anger in order to mask his uneasiness.

“Look, Conrad, ten years ago I was with the wrong group of kids at the wrong time. It only happened once but things were blown out of proportion and they took me from the only home I’ve ever know, to shuffle me from one place to another. I was only twelve years old at the time, for shit’s sake. The only emotion I felt for a long time was hatred; it helped me deal with the fear, the pain and the hopelessness. Now, I have no feelings for anyone or anything.”

“How many homes were you in, Raven?” Conrad maintained a calm manner and tone of voice, regardless of the anger he was experiencing on behalf of that displaced youngster so many years ago.

“After the first dozen, I didn’t bother keeping track. It was never important.”

“Why do you think there were so many?”

“Because no one wanted me and I only wanted my grandfather. I wasn’t able to resign myself to living anywhere other than where I wanted to be. I was what the system termed ‘incorrigible’ and I worked very hard to live up to their expectations.” Raven’s eyes dared Conrad to berate him for his attitude and tell him he deserved everything he got.

Conrad patiently shook his head and ignored the challenge. “So you are saying that you have never met one solitary soul you could or would admire and trust, is that right?”

“You got it!” Raven would never admit there was one such person because he’d first have to acknowledge that fact to himself and he was afraid to go there.

“Hmm, including yourself,” Conrad mused softly, almost under his breath.

Raven questioningly quirked an eyebrow and waited for clarification.

“Have you developed any self-love, Raven?”

“Yeah, right!” the younger man snorted contemptuously. He drained the last of his juice.

“I think that is an excellent premise on which to establish our rules and consequences. Together we are going to help you treat people respectfully and thoughtfully, yourself included."

“So the rules would be….what exactly?” Raven wanted to get this conversation over with. “I hope you’re not expecting me to answer to you for everything I do, because you are in for a major disappointment.”

“I expect both of us to keep each other informed of our whereabouts, to be on time and mindful of each other’s feelings. It is no different than how Brandon and I have conducted ourselves since becoming good friends.” Conrad observed the expressions parading across the other man’s features and waited patiently for a response.

“Anything else?” Raven cautiously asked. He acknowledged that given his tendency to keep people at arms’ length by being rude and uncaring, Conrad was being very reasonable.

“Yes, as a matter of fact there is. You are a valuable person, Raven, and it is time you learned to see that in yourself. It is time you learned to love and respect the man who is Raven Hunter.”

“I don’t know if I can do that.” Raven ducked his head and toyed with his empty glass.

“You can! I will help you. I know how it works, Raven, because I have had to do it myself; more than once actually.”

“And the consequences?” Raven hesitantly inquired.

“Very much in line with what happened the last time you lost control and let me take over.”

“That was a one-time occurrence, man, never to be repeated.”

“It worked though, didn’t it?” Conrad wasn’t surprised when his softly spoken query met with an abashed blush.

“In other words, you think discipline is the answer, right?” Getting a nod to his question, Raven requested an additional guarantee. “I really don’t do corner-time very well and I won’t be sent to bed like a naughty kid.”

“Would you consider timeouts, writing lines or grounding as productive deterrents?”

“I guess,” Raven shrugged indifferently, satisfied that he’d had some say in the set-up.

Conrad took a business card out of his shirt pocket and placed it on the coffee table. “We’ll start with this. The representative of Stedman’s new owner dropped it off. I told him you were indisposed for a few days but would be available tomorrow. You are to meet with him at ten o’clock in the morning at the shop.”

“I don’t think so,” Raven muttered, making a move to get up.

“You do not have a choice, Raven. Common courtesy dictates that you do so,” Conrad firmly admonished.

“Seems to me you’re the one playing at being the dictator here,” Raven muttered, much for form’s sake. He glared at the man facing him, folded his arms across his chest and crunched himself against the back of the sofa.

“I am merely pointing out your lack of options in the situation.” Conrad leaned forward and gently entreated, “Do you trust me enough to accept guidance from me; enough to permit me to discipline you, Raven?”

Black eyes gazed into hazel ones as Raven gave serious thought to what he was being asked. He had stood so long on his own, fought and clawed his way through the system without anyone by his side, and he was so tired of it all. But could he submit to the will of another, even knowing everything possible would be done to meet his needs and assist him in becoming someone he could be proud of.

“Why are you willing to do this, Conrad?” Raven murmured, unsure of what he was looking for.

“Because I care about you.” Hazel eyes solemnly scrutinized tearing, black ones. “Now, will you please answer my question, preferably without another one of your own.” Conrad gently smiled to take any would-be sting out of his words.

“Yes, I trust you!” was Raven’s quietly spoken, simple and honest reply.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 3

2009-05-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

Raven lay stretched out on the bed, flat on his back with arms up and hands behind his head. He stared up at the ceiling, contemplating the recent events in his life while he waited for Conrad’s arrival.

He had moved into the loft, surprising the older man with the small amount of belongings he’d brought with him.

“Is that all you own?” Conrad questioned, having expected a young man like Raven to show up with numerous bags and boxes.

“Yeah, with the exception of my CD player and a handful of CD’s which I keep at the shop. I also own a motorcycle but I didn’t think you’d appreciate me bringing it up here.” Raven shrugged his shoulders and smirked at the long-suffering expression on Conrad’s face. “I have all I need in those duffel bags; clothes, personal items and my art supplies. I’ve had to move so often that I’ve learned to pack fast and travel light. Plus, I don’t hoard stuff.”

Conrad was inclined to believe the young man had just adjusted to going without many of the toys and gadgets others considered necessities, but didn’t comment further. “May as well get you settled then,” he suggested as he picked up one of the bags and led the way down the hall to the room soon to be occupied by his new loft-mate.

Raven grabbed up the second piece of luggage and followed the wheelchair. Entering the bedroom he had slept in the night before, he haphazardly tossed his bag on the bed. “I just want you to know that I do appreciate you letting me stay here for awhile,” he said as he accepted the other bag from Conrad.

“It’s my pleasure, Raven. I mean it, so just relax and make yourself at home.”

Things had easily fallen into a routine over the next month, even though the men rarely spent time together other than briefly at the breakfast table and again for their evening meal. Meals Conrad planned and prepared. Meals Raven got in the habit of cleaning up after.

During the day, Raven worked while Conrad stuck to his custom of going to the gym and working out. Conrad had numerous friends who visited frequently whereas Raven was a loner and much to the younger man’s chagrin, his benefactor entertained regularly. Raven hated these seemingly endless soirees and made it a point to avoid them like the plague. As much as Conrad would have liked Raven’s presence, he never pressured him into attending.

The one and only time Raven hung around for one of Conrad’s dinner parties, the evening ended in disaster. Raven was uncommunicative to the point of being downright rude. Conrad’s friends, Adrian and Chad, just brushed it off for the sake of their host. However, their younger partners, Troy and Devon, were completely unhesitant in airing their opinions.

Conrad discussed Raven’s unacceptable behaviour with him and all but forced him into tendering his apologies the next morning. The apologies had been graciously accepted by Conrad’s two older guests and begrudgingly by the other two.

Besides adjusting to his new living arrangements, Raven was also trying to deal with the anticipated sale of his work place. He was resentfully putting in long hours to complete the present owner’s obligations to his last few customers. The effort involved in keeping his temper at bay was taking its’ toll.

Then the word came. The business had been sold. To make matters worse, Conrad’s friend, Brandon, was due back in less than two weeks. Raven, even knowing they were coming, found himself unable to acclimatise with these changes he feared. That evening, his loss of control ended in a major blow-up.

“Would it help to talk about it, Raven?” Conrad had thoughtfully offered a listening ear in hopes of heading off the impending storm.

“No! Talking won’t change nothing!” Raven muttered. He was lacing his sneakers, intent on going for a walk to cool off, when the lace broke. “Fuck it!” he hollered and threw the offensive shoe at the wall.

“Pick that up immediately!” Conrad commanded, eyes narrowing and glinting dangerously.

“Like hell I will! I don’t take orders from you!” The second shoe followed the first one and landed against the wall next to it. “You can just fuck-off too, Conrad!” Raven shouted. He stormed into his bedroom and slammed the door.

He had just stepped out of his jeans and was in the midst of pulling his sweatshirt over his head, when the bedroom door opened and the humming sound of the wheelchair became more distinct.

“There will be no more door-slamming around here, young man. Nor will I tolerate you swearing at me.” Conrad made his displeasure known.

“Oh, yeah! And just what are you going to do about it?” Raven challenged, unaware of the territory he was entering. He realised he was out of control but wasn’t able to do anything about it. It frightened him to the point of wishing someone would take over. “Just what can you do about it?” His challenge bordered on a plea.

Conrad slowly advanced. “Give me your permission and I’ll take care of it, Raven,” he softly promised, raising the armrests on the wheelchair.

Raven gazed into calm hazel eyes and acknowledged to himself the trust he had in this man; the trust to rein him in and save him from himself. A slight nod and in less than a heartbeat, Raven found himself face first over the ex-cop’s thighs. He momentarily reconsidered his decision when he felt a cool breeze play over his bared bottom, as his boxers were pulled down. He gasped when Conrad’s powerful right hand landed with a resounding smack on his right cheek, directly superseded by one on his left. He lost track of the number of times the hard hand rose and fell as the heat built. He was sobbing out his remorse long before it was over.

Conrad gently replaced the underwear, lifted the well-chastened man and held him close while still being mindful of the heated flesh. When the crying had tapered to a sniffle or two, he used his own handkerchief to wipe the dampness from Raven’s flushed face.

“Better?” he asked and smiled at the wide-eyed glare thrown his way.

Raven reached back and ruefully rubbed his rear-end. He fought back the urge to give way to more tears, and was surprised to realise he actually did feel better. This time his nod resulted in a chase kiss being placed on his forehead as he laid his head on the muscular shoulder.

Securely held, Raven eventually fell asleep in the silent aftermath. He was vaguely aware of Conrad tucking him into bed and murmuring. “Thank you for the new purpose you’ve presented me with.”

The sense of peace following that event had been shattered four days ago. Raven received a letter informing him the representative of the new owners wanted a personal interview with him. That very evening, Raven went out to find solace at the nearest bar. A dozen beer and three-quarters of a large pizza later, he staggered home.

Two hours later, an insistent tugging on his arm awakened Conrad. Raven had been vomiting and was in serious enough pain to warrant a trip to the ER. There he was diagnosed with Pancreatitis. The attack was a direct result of over-indulging and falling asleep so soon after. The treatment involved an extended stay at the hospital; being hooked up to an intravenous line to prevent dehydration and a tube down his throat to clean out his stomach; antibiotics and pain medication. It also meant having no food pass through his system in order to allow the pancreas to rest. Neither man was overly pleased with the entire procedure, least of all Raven.

“Aah!” Raven groaned as the memory of the upcoming discussion surfaced. ‘Conrad is insisting we discuss rules and consequences when we get home today. I know he’s right. I gotta pull my life together, but I don’t know about this consequences shit. I’ll talk to him but I’m not gonna start living like some little kid. I’m a grown man.’ His mind wandered back to the day Conrad had taken control. ‘That spanking hurt like hell but if I’m honest with myself, it did help me. Okay, I’ll listen to what he has to say but he’s gonna have to listen to me too.’

“Nuts! Like there haven’t been some form of rules all along. It’s the consequence shit that I have concerns about,” he grumbled. ‘On the bright side,’ he smiled as he reminded himself, ‘I’ve been granted a reprieve, because Brandon is not coming home for another six weeks.’

Raven turned his head at the humming sound of Conrad wheeling into his hospital room. Both men’s eyes shone with a new determination to put things right.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 2

2009-05-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

Raven pushed away his empty plate and sat back in his chair to contemplate the man across the table from him. He took in the broad shoulders, muscular arms, and large hands with well-manicured fingernails. He admitted to himself that he liked what he saw. He studied the handsome face and found himself inexplicably drawn to the kind hazel eyes, which appeared all knowing and understanding.

Raven was at a loss to understand why he knew beyond a doubt, he could trust this man. Trust in someone was not something he had a lot of. In fact he had little faith in anything and in order to avoid being disappointed had deliberately developed the habit of turning his nose up at any type of overture on anyone else’s part.

“Huh, what would your expectations be of me? I mean, you must have some. Everyone usually does,” Raven muttered, desperately trying to re-erect the walls he habitually hid behind and sought protection with. How and when had his defences crumbled, leaving him temporarily feeling so vulnerable?

“Well, I would certainly appreciate you getting in at a decent hour, keeping any noise down to a reasonable level, picking up after yourself and doing your fair share of the general daily upkeep around the loft.” Conrad watched the expressions playing across Raven’s beautiful youthful face. He saw the wariness, disbelief, longing and finally a ray of optimism. “Tell me, Raven, can you cook?”

“Enough to keep myself alive,” the young man snorted. “I excel at can-opening and re-heating.”

“Humph! I can see where most the meal preparation will fall to me,” Conrad predicted with a good-natured chuckle. “So maybe you could take care of the clean-up after our meals, fair enough?”

“Yeah,” Raven shrugged his shoulders indifferently. “I guess I can do that as long as you don’t expect me to assume responsibility for all the menial tasks about the place.”

“Actually I have maid-service twice a week to handle the vast amount of housecleaning involved in maintaining a two-bedroom apartment averaging one occupant, and a neat one at that.” Conrad laughed at the look of exasperation that resulted from his satirical comment.

“How much rent would you charge me?”

“We can work that out later. It’s not a big deal,” Conrad assured him. “So, what do you say, kid?”

Seeing the hesitancy to make a decision, Conrad made a suggestion. “Would it help if we exchanged a bit of info on ourselves?” Getting a nod of agreement, he continued. “Okay! How about you refilling our mugs with hot coffee and I’ll start?”

“Hmmm, that’s better!” Conrad hummed appreciatively when Raven had filled his request. “Well let’s see. I was raised in what some would refer to as the lap of luxury. There are plenty of people who erroneously still believe money can buy everything, including happiness.” He paused to collect his thoughts, his childhood always a sore subject for him.

“My mother eventually got tired of the constant need to attend the social ladder-climbing activities she was totally uninterested in. She also decided spending any more time with a cold, unapproachable man held little advantages and opted out for a place in warmer climates. We haven’t heard from her since and that was over fifteen years ago.”

“I grew up to realise my father and I had absolutely nothing in common. Nothing I did pleased him and I actually began to enjoy considerable satisfaction in opposing him. His outrage at my desire to become a police officer, cemented my occupational choice.” Conrad grimaced at the memory of his father’s tight-lipped, angry-red face when he had made the announcement of having enrolled at the Police Academy.

“I met my loft-mate, Brandon, on my first day at the Academy. We roomed together and quickly became inseparable friends; like brothers actually. We graduated and moved through the ranks together until the accident that ended my career just over a year ago. Brandon made his own choice to resign the force. He has since turned his energies to becoming an author of mysteries.” Conrad took another mouthful of his cooling drink.

“Are you gay?”

Raven’s blunt question coming at him from left field, caused Conrad to spray coffee over the table. Wiping his mouth and chin, he answered honestly. “Brandon and I are both gay. Although we love each other, we have never been nor will we ever be lovers. What made you ask that?”

“It suddenly occurred to me that it was at the gay bar last night where I first saw you.” Raven shifted in his seat, wondering how invasive his wanting to ask more questions would be. “Ah, How long have you known….I mean when did you discover your….” He blushed uncomfortably, unable to continue and lifted his coffee mug to his lips in hopes of diverting attention from his uneasiness.

“I was in my teens. I only told my mother and at one time wondered if it hadn’t added to her reasons for leaving. Before your curiosity gets the better of you, I have had numerous short-lived affairs but no long-term relationships.” Conrad smiled into his cup as the blush on Raven’s face intensified, darkening the already deeply coloured features. “Your turn!” he abruptly announced.

“I, ah, grew up on a reservation quite far from here,” the young man haltingly started. He sat up straighter, shook back the hair that had escaped his braid, cleared his throat and continued. “My father died in a hunting accident a couple of months before I was born. My mother died of undetected breast cancer when I was five. I was raised until the age of twelve by my maternal grandfather.” Raven took a deep breath and quietly added. “I was much happier back then. I was home.”

Conrad instinctively picked-up on a sadness that some event at the time must have caused and waited patiently for the young man to go on with his story. After several moments of silence, he gently encouraged. “What happened after you turned twelve?”

“They came; the social workers who said my grandfather was too old to be raising a boy who had started hanging around with the wrong crowd and was heading down the road to trouble. They took me away from him and placed me in foster care. I was shoved from one house to another throughout my teens before being moved into the group place. I had to figure it out for myself how I was different from the other boys I came in contact with.” Raven spent several more minutes contemplating that period in his young life. “What the hell,” he stated and looked up to read Conrad’s expression. He was surprised to see a complete lack of judgement. “At least I got most my Bachelor Degree paid for before they kicked me out of the system. I’ve been on my own since graduating over a year ago. I have a degree in fine arts and the only work I’ve been able to find that holds my interest, is part-time at Stedman’s Auto Body. I moved into the flat with three guys who placed an ad for a fourth roommate. ”

“Have you ever had any other jobs?” Conrad asked conversationally.

“Sure! Off and on during high school and college I slaved in some fast-food joints,” was the sneered answer.

“Ever think of returning to the reservation and your grandfather?” Conrad softly prodded, wondering what wounds if any he would be opening.

“Can’t! He died when I was sixteen. The bastards didn’t even tell me until two years later. I never even got the chance to thank him or tell him how much I loved and missed him. I never said a proper goodbye,” Raven murmured, keeping his head down in hopes of hiding tear-filled eyes, but his posture gave away his emotional distress.

Giving his guest time to regain his composure, Conrad mentally reviewed all that had been said and all that had been left unsaid. Raven deliberately avoided calling any place home other than the reservation. He unconsciously unveiled his lack of trust in people and his lack of faith in the world in general; the reasons for his deficiency in social skills both apparent and understandable. The boy was an island. He stood alone, frightened and unsure of his future or in his place in the scheme of things.

“You are more than welcome to make a place for yourself here, Raven, with me. This may only be a loft to you but I believe together, we can turn it into a home. What do you say, kid?”

Raven drained the last of his coffee, then fiddle with the used cutlery by his plate as he glanced about the spacious room. He liked it here. It felt warm and inviting. He hung his head, took a couple of minutes to build up his courage enough to take a chance. “Okay, I’ll accept your offer,” he replied in a small uncertain voice. “Ah, thanks!” He smiled tentatively and was rewarded with a face-splitting grin from his benefactor.

The End

Where It All Began - Part 1

2009-05-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

Written by: Brad

A soft whimper escaped from between dry, cracked lips as the young man slowly passed through the veils of sleep to a state of full consciousness.

“If there’s a god, please let me die now,” he beseeched as the pain in his head reached a new level of intensity. He started to open his eyes but immediately squeezed them shut when the sunlight in the room added to his agony.

“It’s time to rise and shine, kid,” said a soft, disembodied voice next to him. The voice was not totally unfamiliar as he had heard it several times before and always accompanied by the low, unidentifiable, humming sound not unlike that of an almost inaudible motor. “I’ve put a couple of Tylenol and a glass of water on the night table. The condition of the tuxedo you were wearing necessitated it being sent to the cleaners, so there are clean sweats at the foot of the bed for you to put on after you’ve showered. The bathroom is to your right. Just help yourself to clean towels and anything else you need. I’ll expect you at the breakfast table in fifteen minutes or less.” The voice went silent and the humming gradually faded away as a door quietly closed.

The young man moaned as he turned on his side and painstakingly pushed himself up to sit on the edge of the bed with his head cradled in his hands. Squinting through partially opened eyes, he located and plucked up the little white pills and washed them down with a mouthful of water, then placed the glass back where he found it.

‘I’ll stand up as soon as the room stops spinning,’ he thought as he willed his stomach to return to its’ proper place.

Once he felt confident enough, he grabbed onto the bedside table for support and rose to stand on very wobbly legs. After taking a few moments to steady himself, he plodded his way to the bathroom.

He lost track of time as he gave himself up to the comfort of the hot water cascading down his body. The queasiness in his stomach had abated and the headache was slowly dissipating. ‘God,’ he thought, ‘at this rate I just might feel like living after all.’ He shampooed his straight, waist-length ebony hair before applying a generous amount of conditioner and rinsing it all out. Feeling refreshed, he stepped out of the shower and looked around the well-appointed bathroom as he dried himself off. His artist nature appreciated the work that had gone into decorating the room. Along one wall there was a long vanity with custom-crafted, hand-painted tiles for the back-splash that continued into the extra-large shower surround. It was compact, functional and very pleasing to the eye. Taking advantage of the articles left by the sink, he quickly shaved and cleaned his teeth, then brushed his hair before braiding it.

Wrapping the damp towel around his waist, he walked back into the bedroom to put on the clothing laid out for him. The bedroom was as tastefully decorated as its’ en suite with similar shades and coloring. Floor to ceiling windows adorned one wall and gave access to the warm summer breezes. He dressed in the borrowed outfit, straightened up the area and went to find the kitchen and hopefully the person who the voice belonged to.

The short hallway led to an opened-concept great room, bare of carpeting and walls; the only divisions being set up by the way the furniture was arranged. Two cream-colored, over-stuffed, leather sofas flanked a massive fireplace with a large, square oak coffee table in between and matching tables on either end of each sofa. In one corner next to the bookcase sat twin leather recliners forming a reading area. In another corner was a small office of sorts, complete with desk, filing cabinet and computer system. Off to the side, a dining room table with eight chairs took up a large space, beyond which lay the kitchen area partially surrounded by a bar-type counter. Here too, tall windows dominated the main wall and two sets of French doors led out to a large rooftop patio.

But there was still no sign of the voice’s owner as the young man walked over to the glass doors and looked out onto a spacious deck. He took at the hot tub and thought, ‘Well, somebody sure has it made!’ Hearing that strange humming sound, he whirled around to find himself face-to-face with his host.

“Well, kid, you almost made the fifteen minute dead-line but not quite. You’re three minutes over.” The laughter in the man’s eyes belied his stern features.

“I-I’m sorry, sir. I didn’t mean to keep you waiting,’ the young man sincerely apologized. He didn’t know if he was facing a friend or foe, so he decided to exercise caution until he learned more about the person to whose home he had been taken. He was still having a problem remembering all the events from yesterday and had no idea how he had ended up here. He stood aside to let the other man pass and then followed him into the kitchen.

“Is there anything I can do to help?” the young man offered, watching the other man move smoothly and competently from place to place.

“No, thanks. I’ve got everything pretty much ready. Just take a seat and I’ll be right with you,” the older man explained, as he opened the oven door and used potholders to remove two plates containing bacon, eggs, toast, and hash browns. Setting them on the table, he said, “I’ll just get the coffee, then we can introduce ourselves and get acquainted.”

The young man looked at the plate in front of him. He didn’t think his stomach was in any condition to handle so much but the first forkful surprised him. He was starving.

“When was the last time you ate, kid?”

“Hmmm, I think it was yesterday morning maybe, but I’m not sure,” he mumbled through a mouthful of scrambled eggs. He washed it down with a slurp of sweetened coffee before saying more coherently, “This is real good. Thanks! I was hungrier than I thought.”

“Glad you’re enjoying it. My name is Conrad Flynn, but I answer best to Con. What’s yours?”

“Raven….Raven Hunter.”

“How old are you, Raven?”

“I’ll be twenty-two in a couple of months.” Raven didn’t like answering questions about himself but figured he owed the guy something. Besides, he had a few questions of his own. “How old are you?”

“Ten years your senior.” Conrad smiled at the look of surprise on the kid’s face. “Thought I was older, did you?”

“I wasn’t sure. I’m not very good at guessing ages. I just thought….actually I don’t know what I thought.” Raven blushed and squirmed in his chair. “Uumm, what happened to you?” he murmured, pointedly indicating the wheelchair. The mystery surrounding the humming noise had been solved the moment Raven had set eyes on his host.

“Occupational mishap!” Conrad instantly realized the young man wanted more information. “I was involved in a murder investigation when things took a turn for the worse.”

“You’re a cop?” Raven’s eyes widened and he shifted uncomfortably, thinking of the condition he must have been in last night and wondering what kind of an impression he had made. ‘Couldn’t have been a good one?’ he groaned.

“Ex-cop!” Conrad smoothly corrected. He understood the young man’s concerns. “Don’t worry about it.”

Raven picked up his coffee mug to hide behind.

“Where do you usually call home, Raven?” Conrad restarted the conversation when his guest remained close-mouthed.

“I don’t,” Raven responded, replacing his cup and picking up his fork.

“Come now, you must live somewhere,” Conrad insisted.

“Yeah, but not for much longer.” Raven stopped talking to shovel more food into his mouth.

“Care to explain yourself, please?” Conrad’s request was made in such a way as to enable his guest to tune-in to it being more of a command.

“For the past year or so, I’ve been sharing a flat with three other guys. One recently got a work transfer to another city and another, for reasons best known to him, got married yesterday. He’s not even in love with the girl, just her family’s money,” Raven grumbled and his lip curled in disdain. “Hence the penguin suit. I skipped out on the reception at the earliest possible moment to find my own fun.”

“Fun which just happened to include getting pissed to the gills in your friendly neighborhood gay bar.”

“Something like that,” Raven answered with a shrug.

“So let me guess. The two of you remaining couldn’t afford to keep the place. Am I close?”

“Right on the money! The last guy decided to go back home and live with his parents. Not that I blame him, if free rent is what he’s looking for. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it.”

“And your plans are what, exactly?” Conrad prodded.

“Exactly none at this time. Well, none that bear thinking or talking about,” Raven muttered dejectedly.

“Nevertheless, I’m rather interested in hearing about them.”

The man’s persistence was starting to wear on Raven’s nerves. “Why?” he asked, making no attempt at keeping the belligerence out of his tone.

“Let’s just say I might have a proposition for you.” Conrad didn’t want to give much thought to what he was saying for fear of changing his mind. After all, what was this kid to him? Why was he not just giving him the bum’s rush out the door and out of his life? ‘Because you sense a need here!’ he acknowledged to himself.

“For the time being, I’ve moved most my stuff to the shop I work at part-time. Only I’ll have to get it out of there when the owner sells the place.”

“And where exactly is that?”

“Stedman’s Auto Body. He repairs and paints vehicles. I do paragraphics. I’m an artist.”

“I know that place. It’s on the other side of the back alley, not far from this building. Jack used to do some good work before he slowed down to prepare for his retirement. I’d heard he had recently put the business up for sale.” Conrad nodded his head, remembering. “How long have you been working for Jack?”

“Off and on for just over a year,” Raven replied with another shrug. “And who the hell knows what I’m going to do now, or even cares. Anyway, I don’t want to talk about it anymore!” he pouted, in no frame of mind to deal with his problems.

“I have an empty bedroom I can offer you the use of for the next several weeks until my loft mate returns. It will give you time to find something else and look for new employment in case new owners take over Stedman’s and don’t keep you on.” Conrad was surprised at his own offer but didn’t dwell on it.

“What’s the catch?” Raven asked suspiciously.

“No catch! I could use the company and you need a safe haven to plan your next step.”

“This is a fancy place you got here and I can’t pay much.” Raven shyly glanced around, wishing he really could stay here.

“We’ll work something out, okay?” Conrad smiled. He sensed Raven’s desire to accept his proposal as well as the indecision. “It’s going to be okay, Raven. Trust me. God knows you have to start trusting someone sometime!”

The End