My Hero: The Olympian

By Max Vos

After a romantic evening, Rich and Johnny face the light of day as a couple. Johnny’s coming out forces them to face some serious repercussions as the world of collegian jocks adjust to their first openly gay football player.

Rich is still working towards the World Diving Championships with his hopes and dreams set on the 2012 London Olympic Games, while as a couple they deal with concerns closer to home.

With the support of friends and family, the young couple grow closer together, but with prejudices and adversity at every turn will Johnny and Rich be able to tackle the world together?

No matter what, Rich will always be Johnny’s hero.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Max Vos
• Release date: Feb 3, 2016
• ISBN: 9781310316333

Max Vos

Max Vos is the bestselling author of My Hero. He is loved by his readers for his ‘inappropriate’ side, bringing hot and steamy sex to his writing. Not hemmed in by a single genre Max has the ability to woo you with sweet romance, move you with the power of his words and make you question your definition of love. Having retired in 2011 after more than 30 years as a chef, Max turned his creativity to writing. You can always find wonderful Southern charm, well rounded and vibrant characters with a good meaty story line in a Max Vos book. Each book will give you something new and amazing to love.

Book preview

Chapter One

Geronimo!

Rich barely had time to get out of the way before Johnny leapt from the ten-meter platform, nearly landing his cannonball right on top of him. Rich bobbed in the water, watching as it sloshed over the sides of the Olympic-sized pool. He couldn’t help but laugh as his dark-haired lover surfaced.

You’re such a goofball, ya know?

Johnny shook his head like a dog, water flying everywhere. Well, not everyone is an Olympic diver who can fly off that platform like a bird. I just do what I know. He took a big mouthful of the water and spat it at Rich, who laughed dodging it easily.

I think you might want to stick to football. Rich swam effortlessly around the big guy. You’re like a tugboat in the water.

Hey, just be glad I don’t sink and you have to save me again, Johnny panted as he dog-paddled over to Rich. Ever had sex in a pool?

None of your business, Rich said, swimming out of reach and laughing.

"What the hell is going on here? Rich looked up to see his diving coach, Coach Fullmerton, standing by the side of the pool, his hands on his hips. How the hell did the two of you get in here and what exactly are you doing in my pool… naked? Never mind, don’t answer that." Coach Fullmerton held up both hands, stopping them from possibly answering his question.

Sorry, Coach Fullmerton, it’s my fault, Johnny said quickly. I wanted to treat Rich to a— Johnny ran out of words, turning to Rich for help, treading water for all he was worth.

"Never mind that. How did you two get in here, and don’t get out of the water, alright? I don’t think I want to see…that. Just get your stuff and clear out of here. I wasn’t here."

Johnny and Rich watched as the coach stormed out, closing and locking the door behind him. Looking at each other, they both burst out laughing.

So much for the big romantic ending, huh? Johnny said as they made their way to the side of the pool and pulled themselves out.

Oh, I don’t know, John, it’s been pretty romantic. I mean the candles, flowers, and then the pizza. It’s been perfect. I would have never thought of having a picnic on the ten-meter platform, much less sex. Rich caressed Johnny’s furry chest, smiling. I’ll never be able to dive without thinking about what we’ve done tonight.

Johnny frowned. Hope that’s a good thing. Don’t want you distracted or anything.

Oh, trust me. I think it will help keep me focused. It’ll almost be like you’re there with me.

Okay. Sometimes I worry, Johnny admitted as he pulled his lover to him. I know that some of those dives you do can be dangerous.

Thanks for that, but I think I’ll be fine, Rich said as he looked into the milk chocolate eyes flaked with gold of the man he loved with all his heart.

Okay, I’m starting to get a bit cold here, Johnny responded with a shiver.

Yeah, I think they turn the heat off in here at night.

The two athletes climbed the tower to the diving platform to retrieve their clothing and pack up all the stuff Johnny had brought. When they were finished and the door to the Aquatic Center was locked up, they walked back to Rich’s dorm. Rich slipped his hand into Johnny’s big mitt.

I like this. Johnny squeezed Rich’s hand.

I do too, Rich replied as they approached the dorm.

I hope that ass-wipe has moved out, Johnny murmured, his voice deep and menacing. He almost ruined everything tonight.

Don’t give Patrick another thought. He’s always been a douchebag. Besides, Jason is really cool, and I’m sure he’s taken care of it by now. Rich answered. I hope so. That Patrick guy is a real jerk. I don’t know how you put up with him as long as you did.

I’m not in the room that much so it wasn’t all that difficult, Rich explained as he put his key in the door, it swinging open, unlocked.

Hey, guys, Jason greeted the two as he crawled around on the floor.

Um, Jason, what are you doing? Rich asked.

Jason stood up. I was just finishing hooking up my PS4 gaming system.

Oh, cool! Johnny exclaimed. "You have All Pro-Football?"

I sure do, Jason answered with a smile. You up for a game?

Hell, yeah, Johnny said as he flopped down on Rich’s bed.

Great, I’m going to be a PlayStation widow, Rich groaned loudly. While you guys do that, I’m gonna grab a shower and rinse off the chlorine.

As he looked at the other two, he realized he might as well have been talking to the wall for all the response he got. He shook his head, got a fresh towel and went into the bathroom. He could still hear the two guys talking about the game as he got into the shower.

As Rich washed his hair, he couldn’t help but think back over the day. He had woken up depressed and in a foul mood. Then lunch with his father had decidedly changed the way he felt about who his dad was. Who’d have known his father was such a shy and insecure guy? All this time, Rich had thought it was him that his father disapproved of—his old man sure blew that theory all to hell. It was going to be different, knowing his dad was going to be there supporting him for a change, but it was a very welcome change.

Then later in the day, he’d gone through his diving list, nailing each dive, with his father watching. He didn’t think it could get any better than that. It was cool to find out Johnny had also witnessed everything without him knowing. It was as if things were falling into place for once.

Then Johnny had surprised him with dinner on the diving platform, which was the most romantic thing that had ever happened to him. The icing on the cake, though, was Johnny declaring his love for him, and making him feel so loved and wanted. Yeah, this was one of the best days ever.

Rich dried off, a smile on his face. He looked in the mirror, liking what he saw. ’Bout time, he grumbled to himself. I was starting to feel like some hormonal girl with all the crying I’ve been doing. Fuck, I hate that. He couldn’t help but smile again as he brushed his teeth.

Man, how do you do that shit? Johnny complained loudly, tossing the PS4 controller on the bed beside him as Rich walked back into the room.

Jason chuckled. I’ve been playing this game since I was a kid. I’m bound to be better at it. More practice.

Yeah, I guess, Johnny conceded. Hey, babe, he said, taking Rich’s hand and pulling him down beside him on the twin-sized bed. Feel better?

Yeah, I do, Rich answered.

Um…do you guys, like… need some alone time? Jason asked, evidently not sure of the proper protocol.

Rich shook his head. No, Jason, we’re good, I think. John needs to get some sleep, he commented as he poked the big man next to him in the ribs. "He has one of those early morning classes."

Oh, don’t remind me, Johnny groaned. It’ll be a miracle if I pass that class. Half the time I don’t remember a thing, even though I’m there. I get up, work out, eat and then it isn’t until after that class, that I feel like I’m awake. It’s like I’m sleep walking or something.

That’s why it’s a good thing you can go online and listen to those lectures, Rich reminded him with another poke in the ribs.

Yeah, thank God for that, Jason agreed. I had the same issue my first year. I was never fully awake until after that first early morning class. I totally relied on those recorded lectures.

Okay, I guess I need to go, Johnny groaned.

I’ll see you at the gym in the morning? Rich asked as he stood up, holding the slightly damp towel around his waist.

Sure thing, babe. Johnny stood and pulled Rich into a hug. He lifted his chin up before planting a scorching kiss on his man.

Uh-hum. I’m still here, guys, Jason interrupted.

Oh, sorry. Sometimes I forget where I am, Johnny said unconvincingly.

Yeah, sorry, Jason. Didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable, Rich added quickly.

Hey, no problem, Jason said, shaking his head. Just wanted to remind you before you guys started going at it or something. Don’t think I’m quite ready for that.

What? You don’t want to watch two of the hottest guys on campus doing the nasty? Johnny replied in typical jock fashion, curling his arm up, showing off his impressive muscles.

No! Jason exclaimed, holding both hands up. "I don’t think I’ll ever be ready for that."

Rich thumped Johnny on the chest. Excuse me, but don’t I have a say in this?

Trust me, babe, when I start kissing you, you forget everything anyway. Admit it, Johnny teased.

No comment, Rich announced as he pushed his boyfriend away. Time for you to go before you get any other bright ideas.

Yeah, yeah. You’re just afraid I’ll kiss you again and Jason here will get a crash course in some hot man love.

"That’s not going to happen, Rich said, pushing the big football player toward the door. If you’re late for the gym tomorrow, you’ll be the one getting the education."

Oh, I love it when you talk dirty, Johnny said, grinning as he waggled his eyebrows.

Down boy, Rich chuckled, opening the door.

’Night, babe, Johnny whispered before leaning in for a quick kiss. I’ll see you in the morning.

’Night, John. See you tomorrow. Get some sleep.

Rich couldn’t help himself. He pulled Johnny’s face down for another quick goodnight kiss, loving the way his scruffy beard felt on his face.

Love ya, babe. Johnny caressed the side of Rich’s face before turning and walking down the now dimly-lit hallway.

Rich watched for a moment before closing the door.

Wow, that was intense, Jason commented when Rich turned to face his new roommate. I’ve never seen two guys kiss before.

Man, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.

Jason thought a moment. I don’t think I was uncomfortable. It was different, sure, but I think I was unaware of… Jason squinted, his head cocked to one side. I guess I wasn’t prepared for the emotion, I think. I mean, I could tell how much you care for each other, if that makes any sense. It was just not something I was expecting.

Thanks, Jason. It makes sense to me. Rich got out a pair of flannel lounge pants that he slipped on under the towel still draped around his hips. "One of the things I’ve learned is that most people can’t understand that two guys can actually love each other in that way."

Yeah, I guess that is what I was thinking or trying to say. I can see how others might think that. But I gotta say you and Johnny are clearly into each other. It was just different for me to see it.

Thanks, Jason. That means a lot to me. Rich sat down across from his new roomie. I’ll try and keep it to a minimum though.

Hey, don’t sweat it, Rich. It didn’t bother me. Jason laughed a little uncomfortably. Well, until it got to the point where I thought it was going to go a little further than that. No offense or anything, but I don’t think I want to see that.

Trust me, I’d rather you not. Rich laughed, too.

Cool, Jason said as he pulled back the covers on the bed. Don’t know about you, but I’m done for the night.

Me too.

’Night then. Jason got into bed as Rich turned out the light.

’Night.

* * * * *

Johnny Milloway was whistling a nameless tune as he entered the ‘Jock Dorm’, carrying the box he’d used to transport all the stuff he had to set up the impromptu picnic for Rich. He kept remembering the look on his boyfriend’s face when he realized the full impact of what he’d done. It made him so happy to see Rich happy and carefree. Now he was done with all the label crap he’d struggled with, he could honestly say he loved Rich with every fiber of his being. Not only was Rich his lover, which was incredible, but he was also his best friend. Boyfriend. There’s a word I never thought I’d use.

He walked into the common room used by a lot of the other guys on the football team, still whistling.

Looks like someone got lucky, D’Andre, one of the wide receivers said slyly, watching Johnny.

Johnny only smiled as he put away some of the supplies that he’d borrowed from the communal kitchen.

Fucking faggot.

Johnny, D’Andre and the other two players close by turned to Monty Gowan, a third-year linebacker on the team who was sitting on the sofa with another player.

Man, grow up, D’Andre spat out. Ain’t no room for that shit here.

Fags don’t belong in football. Matter of fact, they need to be just shipped off somewhere where the rest of us decent, God-fearing people don’t have to deal with their sickness, snarled Antonio Morris, the other linebacker sitting next to Monty on the large sofa.

Whoa. You guys need to seriously back down, defensive end Darius McMann said, walking into the center of the room. We’re all on the same team here.

No fucking way, Darius, Gowan said, standing up. Once coach hears about Milloway turning queer, he’ll be off the team so fast it’ll make your head spin. There ain’t no queers in football.

Oh, you think so, Monty? You think everyone is as backwoods as your redneck ass? Darius was now joined by D’Andre and the other two players on either side of him.

Johnny Milloway stood in the background as if in a dream state as the drama unfolded around him.

Yeah, I think so, too, and I’m sure as hell no redneck, Antonio said, joining Monty, his dreadlocks dancing on his shoulders. No one wants to be around that kind of sick fag shit.

There were now six big football players standing toe to toe, glaring at each other. The electricity in the room practically sparked between the two opposing sides.

What the hell is goin’ on in here? Alex Carroll, the team captain, barked as he walked into the room. Stand down. Now! he yelled. It was evident that things were about to come to blows.

The six large men backed away from each other. Johnny set the box down quietly and left the dorm, unobserved by the group of large huffing men, who were still arguing.

Chapter Two

Milloway!

Johnny jumped straight up, almost falling into the pool from where he’d been sitting, his back against the diving platform tower pillar. He looked to see Coach Fullmerton standing there with a clipboard in one hand, the whistle on a red lanyard around his neck standing out against his white polo shirt, clashing with the big orange ‘T’ logo.

You still here? The coach looked around. Rich still here, too?

Johnny shook his head, not speaking. His mouth was as dry as the Sahara desert.

Coach Fullmerton took a step closer and studied Johnny’s face. The older man took a step back. Come into my office, Milloway. I think you need a cup of joe.

Johnny followed the coach, stretching out his back as he walked. He was a bit stiff after falling asleep sitting up. Coach Fullerton indicated a chair for Johnny to sit in while he poured two mugs of coffee.

Sorry, you’ll have to take it black. I don’t have any milk or sugar, he said as he pushed the mug toward Johnny. He sat on the edge of a beat-up old desk. You want to tell me what’s going on here? Did you and Rich have a fight?

Johnny took a sip of the hot, dark liquid before he shook his head no.

Then you want to tell me what the hell you’re doing in here? Asleep?

Johnny lowered the mug of steaming coffee and his head. I’m going to be kicked off the football team and lose my scholarship.

What? Coach Fullmerton stood up. Why?

Because I’m… Johnny paused. He’d never come out and said the word gay to describe himself. He glanced up nervously. Because…I’m— He still couldn’t say the word.

"Because you’re gay? the coach asked softly, cutting in. Because you and Rich are dating?"

Johnny could only nod, still not looking at the man in front of him.

Has something happened?

Again, Johnny only nodded yes.

This is going to be a very short conversation if you won’t talk, son. Want to tell me what happened? the coach asked, clearly starting to get frustrated by Johnny’s silence.

When I went back to the dorm last night after dropping Rich off, a few of the guys called me a fag and said that coach would kick me off the team when he found out that Rich and I were…well, together. Johnny said, his voice low, almost a whisper. Even he could hear the pain in his own voice.

You’re a very brave young man, John Milloway.

Johnny jerked his head up. What?

Takes balls to do what you’ve done, Coach Fullerton said, shaking his head. There aren’t many guys your age who would have the balls to do what you’ve done, especially a football player.

I don’t feel very brave. Johnny sighed before taking a large sip of the cooling coffee. I feel more like a coward. I even thought about breaking it off with Rich to save my own ass, but I couldn’t do that. I know I love him more than football, and I’d never hurt him like that.

I also don’t think you’re giving your coach enough credit here. I’ve known him for many, many years, and I think you’re selling him short. Coach Fullmerton picked up the coffee carafe and refilled both their mugs with hot coffee.

So you don’t think he’ll kick me off the team? Johnny asked with a glimmer of hope.

No, I don’t think he will, was the quick answer from the swimming and diving coach. I’ve known Phil since we were in college here, and I think I know the man fairly well. He’s also my best friend.

Thanks, coach, but there’s still the issue of the other guys, Johnny said, almost groaning.

You can’t do anything about them, Johnny. You let the coaching staff deal with those knuckleheads. The best thing for you to do is to hold your head up high and be yourself. Oh, and stay out of trouble. Don’t go giving them any ammunition. Coach Fullmerton patted Johnny on the shoulder just as Johnny’s cell phone rang, playing We Are the Champions, Rich’s special ringtone.

Johnny smiled as he pulled his phone out. Hey, he answered.

Coach Fullmerton laughed when he heard the tirade that Rich was giving Johnny for not being at the gym. Again, he patted Johnny on the shoulder before leaving his office.

Calm down, babe, I’m on my way, okay? Johnny soothed. Yeah—I’m on my way now, keep your shirt on…or not. Johnny couldn’t help but smile at that idea.

Johnny downed the rest of the coffee as he stood up. He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly before leaving the small office.

Johnny rushed to the gym, feeling much better about himself. Coach Fullmerton is right. I need to have faith in my coach and myself. I’m not ashamed of who I am—or of Rich. If I have to give up football, then I’ll give it up. It’s that simple.

Rich’s face was covered in sweat and frowning when Johnny rushed through the double doors.

It’s about damned time, Rich cursed as he dropped the weights, causing a loud clanking noise. Hell, you’re not even dressed.

Johnny walked right up to Rich, picked him up, held him close to his body, and kissed him deeply.

If you think— was all Rich got out before his mouth was filled with Johnny’s tongue.

When Johnny pulled away, Rich dangled in his arms, breathless, his eyes glazed over.

I love you more than anything, you know that? Johnny asked.

Rich nodded, looking numb. I love you, too.

As long as I have you with me, I can deal with anything.

Rich finally regained his composure and frowned. Okay, what’s going on? What happened?

I need more coffee. Johnny said as he pulled Rich out of the weight room. I need to tell you what happened when I got back to the dorm last night, but I want to do it sitting down somewhere quiet.

This doesn’t sound good, Rich said as he opened his locker. I’ll skip the shower. Rich slipped out of his damp T-shirt, and then put on a dry shirt and a heavy sweatshirt. Let’s go.

Johnny sat at their usual table in the coffee shop while Rich went to get their coffees and muffins, which had become their routine. He used to feel bad about Rich always paying, but Rich quickly put that to rest, saying that he was only paying Johnny and his family back for all the meals he’d eaten at their home.

Rich set their coffee and muffins down on the small table. Okay, what’s up?

Johnny took a bite out of the muffin and drank a sip of hot coffee, grimacing before setting it back down. Damn, that’s hot. Had a bit of a run-in with some of the guys last night when I got back to the dorm.

"What do you mean run-in?" Rich’s face contorted as the hot coffee passed his lips.

Two guys called me a fag and said that I was as good as gone from the team.

What? Rich’s expression instantly changed to one of anger. They can’t do that.

Hold on, Johnny said, reaching for Rich’s hand. Everything is going to work out. Trust me.

How can I trust—

Rich was interrupted by Johnny’s cell phone buzzing on the table, indicating a text message, which flashed across the screen.

MANDATORY TEAM MEETING. TODAY. 4 P.M. COACH.

See, I think everything is going to work out for the best, Johnny said after they both read the message.

How do you know that? Rich looked as if he were about to panic. If you get booted from the team, that means no more scholarship.

‘ill be ‘ine, Johnny muttered around what seemed to be half of the giant muffin in his mouth.

First off, John, you have got to stop shoveling food into your mouth and then trying to talk, Rich said, scowling as he brushed the crumbs that had spewed from the footballer’s mouth to the tabletop. It’s rude and not at all attractive. Trust me on this one. No one is going to take your food away from you. I’m thinking you said ‘I’ll be fine.’

Johnny nodded yes. ’orry, he said, causing yet more crumbs to fall.

Rich sighed. And what the fuck do you mean you’ll be fine? How do you know? Think about this a minute, John. What would happen if you lost your scholarship? Huh?

"I have thought about it, Rich. Johnny wiped his chin with the flimsy napkin, crumbs from his beard falling into his lap. If that happens, I’ll just take out student loans, but like I said, I have a feeling everything is going to be okay."

Rich sat there shaking his head in disbelief. For someone who was just fag-bombed by some of your own teammates turning on you, you sure are calm. I don’t understand it. You’re not the least bit concerned, are you?

Nope, not at all. Johnny smiled as he took Rich’s hand in his. "I have faith in us. Remember me telling you what mom said? That love was love? She was right. And I know deep down that true love will win out."

When did you become such a romantic sap? Rich had to smile at his boyfriend, taking his hand back to peel away the wrapper of his own muffin.

It was Coach Fullmerton that set me straight this morning. I…I had a real hard time with everything last night, but he helped me get over all that.

"My coach?" Rich sat back in his chair, his mouth hanging open.

Yep. After everything went down in the common room, I left. I had to get out of there. I still had the key to the Aquatic Center, so I went there to think. Anyway, I fell asleep next to the pool and Coach Fullmerton woke me up this morning. He gave me some coffee and some damned good advice.

Why did you go there? And what was this great advice? Rich asked, still dumbfounded.

He said I needed to trust Coach, and he was right. Johnny took a big sip of the lukewarm coffee. I was wrong not trusting in him, or in us.

Unbelievable, Rich mumbled, shaking his head. I gotta say, John, you have some gonads, that’s for sure.

You would know. Johnny smirked.

"So not what I meant. Anyway, can you just be serious for a minute? Please?"

What makes you think I’m not being serious? Johnny said seriously. I know I can trust Coach to do the right thing. I know it here, he said, thumping his chest with his fist. Coach is a good man, and he’ll do the right thing.

I sure hope you’re right, John. Rich took a sip of his cooling coffee and grimaced at the bitter taste.

Neither paid any attention when the bell jingled over the front door. It wasn’t until Brittney stood next to their table that either one of them looked up.

If you filthy fags are going to keep coming here, I’m going to have to find another place to get my lattes. Brittney tossed her long bottle-blond hair over her shoulder.

It’s a free country, Brittney. Johnny shrugged as he smiled. You can go anywhere you want, I’m sure.

"I wonder if the owners of this place would be so accommodating of your kind if their other customers stopped coming here?" she snapped.

"Oh, I don’t know, Brittney. They seem to be okay with letting the likes of you in here, Johnny snarled. I’m sure even they’ve seen that picture of you that’s going around. Everyone else has. I’m sure you know the one. The one of you paying homage to that very large cucumber…"

Brittney visibly paled.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot about that, Rich chimed in.

Actually, I think I have it right here on my phone. I had deleted it, but then another round of it showed up again. Johnny reached for his phone. Let me pull it up and I can show you.

Don’t. You. Dare! Brittney screeched, tears rolling down her face as she started to grab for Johnny’s smartphone, but he pulled it out of her reach.

People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. Isn’t that what they say, Rich?

Yeah, I’ve heard that before. Rich looked as if he felt sorry for the Barbie-wannabe suddenly. Delete that, John, and don’t… just don’t say anything, okay? This isn’t right.

Johnny looked at Rich and saw the expression on his face. You’re right, Rich. Brittney, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that. Johnny proceeded to delete the offensive picture. But, Brit, you should know it’s been going around like wild fire. I don’t know the circumstances around it, or who got it, but you… well, you might need to, you know, deal with whoever got it first.

Brittney covered her face with both hands and stood there for a moment, shaking. After she dropped her hands she said, You can tell that creep teammate of yours, Monty Gowan, that he’d better crawl back under that rock he came out from if he wants to keep his balls. She hesitated a moment. Thanks for telling me.

Um, I’ll give him the message for you, Brit. Johnny’s eyes were wide. Again, I’m really sorry, Brittney. I had no right to say that to you.

Brittney’s eyes softened toward Johnny. "I’m sorry too, Johnny. You at least act like a gentleman." She glanced at Rich, nodded, and then left the coffee shop.

Holy hell, Johnny said, leaning back against the chair.

What? Rich asked, his eyebrows raised.

Gowan was one of the ones giving me a hard time last night. He’s also the one who said that once coach found out I was— Johnny stopped.

Rich sat there, knowing the turmoil his boyfriend was going through. He remembered going through the same thing. It was one thing to think it, but another to actually say it. He reached for Johnny’s hand.

Johnny looked at the hand on top of his. He looked up and his eyes focused on Rich’s. "He’s the one who said that once Coach found out I was… gay, he would be sure to kick me off the team."

Rich could see the tears about to spill down Johnny’s cheeks. I know it hurts, John. But I can tell you though that it does get better. Easier even.

Johnny nodded. Okay. What is it they say? Out and proud?

Rich smiled slightly. Yeah, something like that, he answered softly.

Okay then. I’m proud, Johnny said as he squared his shoulders. I’m proud to be seen with you, Rich.

Rich nodded. And I’m proud of you, John.

"Anyway, if it was Gowan who sent that picture around, and Coach finds out, he’ll be the one kicked off the team."

Rich looked puzzled.

There’s this whole rulebook that we get when we first join the team. The football team, that is. Johnny was grinning like crazy. One thing that was in there was about sexting. A big no-no.

Oh shit, Rich said hoarsely. That means…

That means if it comes out that it was Gowan who sent that around, then he’s as good as gone, Johnny said, smirking.

Come on, Rich said standing. Let’s go see if we can catch Jason before he heads off to class.

Okay, but why? Johnny got up to follow Rich.

Because he is a techno guru or something. Rich held the door open until Johnny caught up. If it was Gowan who sent you that first text, but you deleted it, Jason will be able to get it back, if anyone can.

He can do that? And why?

I’m sure Jason can do it, but if he can’t, he’ll know who can, Rich said as he all but ran toward his dorm. Never mind why.

Hey, I’m gonna miss my class, Johnny complained.

You yourself said you never hear anything in there anyway, Rich said, pulling on Johnny’s arm, trying to get him to hurry. We’ll get you set up on the internet recording of the lecture, so you won’t actually miss anything.

Yeah, well you got a point there. Johnny looked at Rich, a big goofy grin on his face. Race ya! he shouted and took off, getting a good head start.

You over-stuffed furball! Rich yelled as he started to sprint. You know you’re never gonna win.

Johnny yelled over his shoulder. Wanna bet?

The two jocks had reached Rich’s dorm in less than three minutes, touching the door at almost exactly the same time.

How… Rich walked in a circle trying to catch his breath. How did…you…do that? I’ve always been…able to…beat you.

Johnny was bent over, his hands on his knees, huffing like a bull. Coach’s…been making us…run sprints. Johnny stood and started to walk, swinging his arms. I’ve been… getting faster.

I can see, Rich huffed out. Let’s go before…Jason leaves.

Chapter Three

Jason was just about to leave when Rich and Johnny entered the small dorm room.

Good, Rich said still huffing a bit from his sprint across campus. I was afraid that we’d missed you.

Hey, guys. What’s up? Jason asked as he picked up his backpack.

Need a favor, Jason, Rich said. Got a bit of a problem that I hope you can help with.

Is it Patrick again? That guy needs to just get a life if he’s—

No, it isn’t Patrick, it’s…I’ll let John tell you while I grab a quick shower. Rich peeled off his sweatshirt, tossing it in the dirty clothes hamper at the foot of his bed.

What’s up? You’ve got me curious now, Jason asked, dropping his backpack on the floor with a thump.

Think you can get a text message back after it’s been deleted? Johnny asked, hearing the shower start.

Sure, that’s a no brainer, Jason said. Your phone?

Yeah. Johnny answered handing Jason his iPhone.

Man, you need to think about getting an Android. Jason frowned and took the phone. Might take me a few minutes, but I need to get to class. How important is it?

Johnny proceeded to tell him what had happened after he’d left the night before. So, yeah, it’s kinda important. Johnny looked expectantly at Jason.

Okay, that’s important enough to blow this class for. It shouldn’t be much of a problem, but iPhones tend to be a bit of a pain in the ass.

Jason pulled his laptop out of his backpack and set it on the desk. Johnny watched with interest.

Damn, you don’t have the power cord for this thing do ya? Jason frowned at the device in his hand. Damn Apple and their proprietary crap.

Um, no. I don’t, answered Johnny.

I think Mikey has an iPhone. Let me go see if he’s around, Jason bitched, leaving the room.

Hey, did Jason leave? Rich asked as he came out of the steaming bathroom with a towel around his waist.

Johnny swallowed hard as he looked at his boyfriend, still damp from the shower. He...uh. He swallowed again. He went to see if someone had a power cord for my phone.

Oh, okay. Rich dropped the towel, opening the dresser and pulling clothes out.

Rich?

Yeah? Rich replied, not looking up from his sock and underwear drawer.

Do you have any idea how horny you’re making me?

Rich looked up with a shocked look on his face. "Are you always horny?"

Whenever you’re around, yeah, I am. Johnny stood up and moved behind his still naked lover. I can’t ever seem to get enough of you.

"I don’t think we have enough time for…that," Rich said, his voice husky as Johnny started nibbling at his neck.

Sheesh, are you guys like rabbits or something? Damn, Rich. Put some clothes on would ya? Jason said, announcing he had returned.

Johnny turned to see Rich’s new geeky roommate standing facing the wall.

Sorry, Jason, Rich apologized as he pulled on a pair of boxer briefs. I’m covered.

Thank God, Jason grumbled as he made his way to the desk, his eyes still averted.

Did you get a power cord? Rich asked as he pushed Johnny away from him before pulling on a T-shirt.

Yeah, I got one, Jason murmured as hooked the phone up to his laptop. Do you know who sent you the message? It’ll be easier to find if I had a name.

Yeah, it was Monty Gowan. Johnny moved closer to watch what Jason was doing.

Jason frowned, still looking at his computer. What a douche.

You got that one right, Rich said, standing beside Johnny and watching Jason work his magic.

Let me bypass… Jason’s fingers whipped over the keyboard One more… He stopped as the screen changed. And… there ya go.

The picture of Brittney filled the screen. Holy shit! Jason yelled. That’s Brittney…what’s her name, the cheerleader? Is that a cucumber?

Yeah, yeah, shut your mouth, Jason, Rich said chastising his roomie. Does it show who sent it?

Oh yeah, I got that. Jason’s eyes never leaving the screen. It was sent under a screen name different from Monty’s name, but I have the number. If that’s his number, we’ve got him.

Jason’s hands started to move on the keyboard. Don’t you dare try and save that, Jason, Rich commanded, stopping Jason dead in his tracks.

Man… Jason looked like a kid who had just been caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

How can we prove it was Monty? Rich asked, a worried look on his face.

Don’t worry, babe. Johnny looked at Rich with a slight upward turn at the corner of his mouth. I’m sure Jason here can get all the proof we need.

It’s gonna take me a few minutes, but I think I can get it tracked down, no problem.

Jason attacked the keyboard again. He was going so fast that neither Rich nor Johnny could keep up with what he was doing.

Damn, Jason, how do you know all this stuff? Johnny asked, shaking his head in amazement.

Technology has always been my thing. Jason explained, his hands never stopping. Smartphones have always fascinated me. Tablets, same thing. One day, tablets are going to just be mini-computers that will be able to run everything.

Hell, that’s almost here now, Rich said as he watched in admiration.

Getting closer, that’s for sure, Jason added.

And here I thought I was good with computers, Johnny said.

Well…there you have it. Jason sat back in his chair as a video—a very explicit video—began to play. It was Brittney doing her thing with the cucumber. Suddenly, her voice came through the small speaker on the laptop.

"Hey, Monty, is this what you wanted? Is this inspiration enough for you? She moaned sexily into the camera. Think you’ll have enough energy after the game for this? Brittney tossed her long hair back as she moved her hips further onto the large vegetable while tweaking a nipple on her ample breast with one manicured hand. Looking back at the camera she said, Go win this one, baby, and I’m all yours." She blew the camera a kiss and then the screen went black.

The small room was deadly silent for several moments.

At least the dirtbag didn’t send the video out, Rich said disgustingly. He had no right to do that to her, even if she is a total bitch.

Um, …yeah, he did too, Jason responded. He only sent the still picture out en masse, but he sent the whole video out to a few. Hold on…

What? Johnny asked,

Reviews for My Hero

[Donald Watson · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Two much always hungry two sloppy these were young guys not queens but that is what it read like