At the Water's Edge

By Wesley L. Crane

This the second novel in the saga series of Moon Rising. It is a continuation of where novel one left off. It is amazing what friendship can do for one another. Harold and Jay are summon back to help their new found friends.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Jan 30, 2012
• ISBN: 9781468536096

Wesley L. Crane

Wesley L. Crane was born at Russell, Kansas in 1951 and is a graduate of Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre-Speech.1974. He like countless others is continually pursuing his life time goals and dreams of which to become a noted writer and playwright of his time. “Nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it. Dreams do come true when you become determine to see them happen.” Wesley L Crane was nominated for Cambridge who's who among professional businessmen for the year 2007-2008. He also had his own talk radio show for a brief season in 2008 of which he tremendously enjoyed but had to resign from it because of becoming a care giver for his mother who had Alzheimer's disease, which he never regretted for an instant, instead was glad he did. His love for the theatrical world has caused him to become a cofounder of his own theatre group with one of his dearest friends in Brazil. Wesley L. Crane is a man of visionary dreams into today's world of tremendous challenges.

Book preview

Chapter One

_

H e, who tries to look beyond his own time, can only get answers he can not prove yet. Somehow these words seem to ring throughout the endless ages as the midst rolled in and around the cliffs where it all begin. It seemed like it was only yesterday that things happened that changed the course in our lives. We can’t imagine that things happened the way they did? Or even why they happened the way it happened. All we can recall is the vivid picture of the events that made all this happen.

Now we are heading back home to where we started the journey. Ramick brought ultimate joy to both our hearts. We shall never forget the memories that we had with him. Now we were starting our journey in life, and this time with the thanks of fate, we have discovered our ultimate happiness. What could I but say, I owed all our happiness to Ramick, after all he was the one who introduced me to Jay Gorman in the first place. Had it not been for the events that took place heaven knows I would have still been with Ramick.

My heart is still pounding as I recall Jay grabbing my hand and we were running toward the center of the plaza where we were suppose to do the ritual to have us return. What a site it was to see two men dress up in drag with makeup on to be disguised as woman…yes woman in the French courts. I had on the royal blue dress which was very nice and expensive I guess for the time of era that we were caught in. And of course Jay in the emerald green dress, boy did we make a pair. We both stood out like sore thumbs. But it was I guess the only solutions to get us back to where we are today. I am so grateful that we made it safely. When we arrived back into our time in the same location as we had left, we had appeared in the busy part of town and of course right at sundown. Well you can imagine the rest of the incident that unfolded before our eyes. Yes we were the highlight of the evening indeed. Imagine if you will. Two grown men dressed like women and with dresses that were not of the modern day era…we had high heels and boy was that something to behold. Jay was extremely embarrassed to say the least and he wanted to get the dress off as quickly as possible. To me, it didn’t bother me as much as it did Jay for some reason. All I was thankful to be alive and back into my world.

Jay, do you suppose that the others made it safely…I wonder what happened after we left the scene?

Harold sweetheart, no telling but of course we know that the General was baffled to say the least. You recalled how he look as he was about to approach us. Jay said laughing just at the mere thought of the general.

"Jay you look appositely adorable in that dress. My, what will the neighbors think? I started laughing and spoke in a joking mood.

Harold you better cut that out or else…, Jay quickly muttered out his mouth, a little upset.

Harold spoke up, "Or else what? I happen to think you look adorable stunning in that get up. Besides it saved our lives none the least. By the way, you look even cuter with all the makeup on. But most of all your dress is so becoming on you that it brings out the best in your eyes. I wish I had my camera right now, so I could take some pictures of you and have it framed over the mantel of our fireplace at home.

Just then Jay hurriedly takes off the dress and tosses it in the nearest garbage can. You would say something like that, I just knew it. You better follow suite too, we are starting to draw attention to ourselves here.

Oh, my God, you’re so right. Harold screamed as he realized that this wasn’t in New York or Hollywood in California, where almost anything goes and is accepted. No this was in the Caribbean Island. Harold hurriedly takes off the dress and tosses it in the garbage can as well. Both Jay and Harold glance around quickly as they adjusted their clothing. Jay motions for them to start to head back to the resort. Well of course they had drawn a skeptical of themselves. People were stopping. You could hear them laughing, and you could see them pointing in our directions. What a sight to behold. Both Harold and Jay spoke up together as they pass the crowd that was gathering fast. Take a picture it will last longer to say the least. They were running laughing as they did. Oh yeah, must not let you be disappointed to say the least." Jay grabs Harold and pulls him into his arms and then plants a big passionate kiss on his mouth. Then Jay released Harold and they started heading to the resort.

Jay don’t we make a fine pair after all…we know how to appreciate each other where most gay men do not even know how to express their feelings. These shoes are killing my feet and I simply do not know how to walk in them. Harold said laughing at himself. I can’t wait to get this makeup off and get back to my natural looking self.

Well you finally have come to your senses I see. Well so do I my love, so do I? Jay beams a warm big smile at Harold. Deep down in his heart he was wondering what was happening to their new found friends, whom they have grown to love dearly. As he was busy thinking to himself he reached up and felt the necklace that made this all possible for them to return back into their own time.

"Say Jay, what is bothering you? You seem to be in heavy thought at the moment?’ Harold mention as they were busy walking fast back to the resort.

Oh sorry Harold, I was busy thinking about the words I seemed to hear ringing in my ears… He, who tries to look beyond his own time, can only get answers he can not prove yet. I can’t but think that this necklace held the key for us to return…but how can we explain what has happen to us. No one will believe us if we did try.

Jay Darling. You must not think about it right now. We need time to think things over. Besides it might be best not to mention this to anyone just yet. What we need is a good bath, and then time to recollect on everything that took place. I can’t wait to get back to the room, to get refreshed, and out of these clothes. Harold spoke with so much excitement. Besides you my love, have made me the happiest man alive on the planet earth. I am so grateful to be able to express my thoughts to you right now." They both walked the rest of the way in silence thinking to themselves the incidents that had occurred in their lives. And what it meant to each of them. If silence could kill, it sure did then. The walk to the resort this time seemed much longer than it normally did. Maybe it was because we were so engrossed into our thoughts that we had lost track of all time and even place?

Finally after all the silence Harold had the courage to speak first, after all he wanted to break the ice. Silence wasn’t his cup of tea. He preferred to rather talk instead of being the silent type. Talking was an art for him. He enjoyed making conversation. Jay, you know I never really took the time to observe the beauty of the sky at night time. The stars are so beautiful and especially here one can see them glowing in all their brilliance and beauty. Where I came from you would be lucky if you could even see a few stars. The manmade pollution makes it almost impossible to enjoy such beauty as this. You know Ramick was right; there is beauty in the night. I never really thought much about it until now.

Jay looks up from his long concentration of thoughts and looks upward to look at the stars. You know Harold; I never really took the time to really look at this beauty also. I had always been wrapped up in other things. Even in Wicca I never realized that indeed there was beauty in the night time. Thanks for sharing this with me. Jay grabs Harold around his waist as they both gazes into the night time sky. Jay had a big smile on his face.

Jay, I am so glad that things worked out they way they did. I shall never forget what happened to all of us. This is one adventure of a life time that will always hold dear to my heart. It has been etched upon my heart it seems for all eternity. Harold lets out a sighs of relief, as they continue to stare up in the nigh sky they couldn’t but help but consider things that made a drastic difference in their lives.

Well, sweet pea. I think we better get going. We are not too far now. Besides I want to wash off this face paint and get my natural beauty back.

"Jay, Darling So do I. Besides, there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home, there’s no place… as Harold starts clicking his heel together, Jay interrupts him.

Ok, Dorothy, I get the picture, besides this is not Kansas either. Jay spoke laughing his peculiar laugh that made him his own person. You, Harold Darling sure know how to make a person laugh when they need it most. I love that about you. Thanks for making me realize just how wonderful things are right now."

Jay releases his arm around Harold’s waist, then quickly turns to face him and as he reaches down with his hand, he brings Harold’s chin up to his face. Jay was making his daring move by planting a long passionate kiss on the mouth; one that most girls would swoon over the moment that their lips would touch. As Jay was reaching for Harold, he starts lifting his leg and as he does his high heel fall off. Harold and Jay start bursting out with laughter again only this time they were hysterically silly.

Jay I must say you certainly know how to make all the right moves…besides I wanted to get out of these shoes anyway. How did you know that? You must have mental telepathy indeed. Harold spoke having trouble getting out all the words because he was laughing so hard.

Oh, shut up you twit, It hurts so hard I can hardly move my face hurts, because from all the laughter….cut it out. Jay burst out his words trying not to bend over from so much laughter. He motion with his hands to stop. In the meantime Harold was laughing so hard that he stumbles backwards and falls to the ground. After gaining his composure and catching his breath he speaks up.

Oh my, oh my, did that ever hurt. I never realize just how fun life can be especially when you are sharing it with the man of your dreams. Harold puts his hand up toward Jay so that Jay can help him up. Say, Darling. Could you help me up I seemed to have fallen down. If someone saw me right now they would think I was drunk. And you know what? They would be right, because I am drunk with love…

Jay as he is reach down to help Harold up, Well I can certainly tell that. You have made a total wreck of me but I love you even the more for it. Now let’s get going…I can see our room from here. I need to get refreshed. It certainly has been a hair rising experience for us both. Wouldn’t you agree?

Yes in more ways than one. Harold pauses for a brief moment as he was recalling all the things they experience once again. Then suddenly without warning speaks as he darts off, Last one there is a rotten egg, besides I get dabs on the bathroom first.

Before Jay even realizes it Harold has made his move first. Damn, he sure learns fast. After all he has a great teacher to show him how to make all the right moves. As he smiles he slowly walks toward the room. Jay couldn’t but help realize that if it wasn’t for Ramick introducing him to Harold he would of never had the opportunity to experience true love and what it can do to a person, when they are caught in the trap. You know Ramick; I was a fool for not taking notice of this experience a long time ago. I let too many things hinder me from really seeing the true light what love can do to a person and the joy it can bring for even one split second. Thanks my dearest friend. Jay then quickly starts running toward the room. Shouting as he runs, Love does crazy things to a person…yea, for love…thanks Ramick…I love you for that.

Scene%20breaker.jpg

Jay and Harold were getting nervous because they weren’t quit sure how things would do and if they might be recognize for being men impersonating women. But at this point in time they were not turning back from accomplishing the task at hand. It was sink or swim, and my golly Harold and Jay thought only of swimming. They wanted to go back to their time and home. They had their feel of adventure. This one would last a life time, and their memories they could write memoirs of their adventures and of course of their sexual escapades. But this wasn’t their main concern. They knew it would be hard to adjust to this way of living, when they were use to more modern things. I guess they were spoiled as some would call it, but not to Jay, not even to Harold; instead they would call it more of advancement.

Well Boys I hate to burst your bubble, but it is time that we make our plan move. We have stayed here way to long, but it was the best thing we could do. I do not want to jeopardize the store any longer. After all they are on my side and they hate the soldiers rule over the town and the people who live here. Spoke Monsieur Eric Soufriere with urgency in his voice. "Well Harold? Well Jay? Do you think you can pull it off? Especially being close to the site we need to be at? You know that the sun is setting and is about to go down. Remember what I need for you both is too act natural. We need to walk over to the table area and get close enough to where you were the last time. It is vital that you do not let anyone spoil this for us. Be you charming selves, act up a storm just so that you will not be recognize for who you really are. Remember there is a warrant for your arrest, and if found it could lead to a horrible outcome. Also Jay do you have the necklace around your neck?

Yes I do. I am guarding this for my dear life. Jay said trembling somewhat but he then gain composure so that his nerves were settle and he decided to camp it up a bit, and play this for all it was worth. Come boys, I mustn’t disappoint my fans.

Eric opens the front door of the mercantile store. Harold and Jay follow right behind. Then once they were out on the side walk area, Eric offered his arms to the two ladies in waiting and they slowly walk toward the center of plaza area, just as they were doing this, there suddenly appeared soldiers on horses riding into the town square followed by a carriage carrying none other than Monsieur De Longueville.

Make way for our honored guest, Monsieur De Longueville…Quickly now clear the way. Said Lieutenant Pierre waving his sword as he approaches the crowds, Monsieur Soufriere had no choice but to obey Lieutenant‘s command. So Eric and his two adorable ladies of the French court proceed to go to the edge of the square in front of the mercantile store and waited; watching the precession of carriage arriving, and the soldiers clearing the way for the precession.

Eric, what are we going to do now? We have very little time to do things in and now there is a crowd of people. We do not want to get you into trouble. Jay said leaning over and putting the fan up to his face to disguise his voice so no one would see him talking to Eric. Just then as Jay finished talking, Lieutenant Pierre rode up on his horse and saluted Eric and his two guests.

Then Lieutenant Pierre proceeds to dismount from his horse and approached, He then takes Jays hand, Mademoiselles and Mousier. I couldn’t help but notice such beauty that your guest has and I would like to ask Mademoiselle if she would do me the honor this evening by having the first dance with me? Jay still having the fan over his face proceeds to curtsey and then give a little giggle and speaks calmly…Why it would be a pleasure Mousier. Then Lieutenant Pierre kisses the hand of Jay, bows and mounts up on his horse and proceeds with the rest of the soldiers.

Well done, Jay. You did great. Give me a moment to think, awe yes, why didn’t I think of it before now. We need some kind of diversion so that we can carry out our plans. Yes, now I know. Harold go inside quickly and get Gustavo, hurry.

Harold immediately lets go of Eric’s arm and lady like as possible hurried to the mercantile store entrance. Robert saw him and immediately opens the door. Then Harold told Robert to fetch Gustavo. Robert ran to the back where the carriage was and found Gustavo waiting patiently."

Gustavo, come quickly, no time to waist. Mousier Eric Soufriere has requested your help and needs you to come immediately He is out front by the stores entrance go quickly, I shall wait here for your return. Now go we do not have much time. Robert spoke with haste to Gustavo.

Gustavo ran inside and to the entrance of the store. Harold motions for Mousier Eric Soufriere to come inside it would be better. Eric saw him and told Jay to wait quietly and not to panic but to be calm. He immediately went inside and proceeded to tell Gustavo he needed for him to cause a diversion. He told him that the fireworks for the evening celebration were over past the town square along side of the waterfront where the docks were on a barrage, which probably would be guarded with soldiers. He also new that Gustavo was an excellent swimmer and could swim with out being heard.

Gustavo we need for you to help our friends, can you do this within the next few minutes? I need for an explosion to occur so that we can divert everyone’s attention and to get our friends to the spot needed. If you do this for me I will see to it that you are greatly rewarded and you will be surprise what it will be. Eric spoke with much haste and anxiousness in his words.

Sir I will be more than happy to do this for your friends and mine as well. I will go and not delay any more. When I get there I will set fire to the barrage. Please tell them for me that I will greatly miss them. Gustavo said as he heads off in the back and making haste.

Good, be careful we are counting on you now. Eric says as he hears the back door slam. Gustavo everything is resting on you now. We are counting on you.

Eric then proceeds with Harold, heading back outside to where he left Jay. He whispers in Jay’s ear. When you hear the explosions make a move quickly toward the spot and do what you must do. Do not look back just go and remember my good friend we will always be in one another’s hearts. I shall never forget what you have done for me inside, and I appreciate the opportunity to have met your acquaintance. Now get ready we do not have much time. The sun was starting to go down behind the hills and in a matter of minutes it would be sunset.

Jay stood next to Harold right behind Eric. Their hearts were pounding with excitement, racing a mile a minute. But they knew that they must remain calm until the moment of excitement would happen. In the meantime Gustavo was busy making his way to the dock area. He had already found that torches were placed on the barge where the fireworks were stored. He took off his clothes so that they could not slow him down, and quietly enter into the bay area. He didn’t mind the water at all. It was refreshing after sweating up a storm running to this destination.

Gustavo saw that soldiers were lined everywhere so he proceeded with much caution. He swam pass the soldiers without even being seen and heard. Finally He reached the barge. Gustavo decided to dive under water and come up on the other side of the barge away from the main gathering of soldiers. He quietly lifted himself on the barge and took on of the torches out of it stave and immediately threw it on top of the fire works that were laying on the center of the barge. The fire spread immediately and the whole barge was consumed with flames. Gustavo immediately jump into the water and swam under water pass the guards who were busy trying to put the fire out, but it was too late.

Meanwhile back at the town square Monsieur De Longueville was about to get out of his carriage when the horses started to become spooked and restless. The servant tired to make the horses become still and calm again. Several went to hold the harnesses still so the horses would be still. As De Longueville was about to stop out of the carriage, that is when it happened. There was along explosion and everyone could see the flames over by the dock area. Monsieur De Longueville immediately orders the soldiers to go to where the flames were and to determine what had happen. He got back into the carriage and decided to wait. The explosion was followed by enormous small explosions and it lighted up the surrounding area. People were scattering to and fro from all the noise and not knowing what was happening. Many thought that they were being siege from attack by the British fleet. There was screaming heard everywhere. So now was the perfect time, so Eric turned and motions for Jay and Harold to hurry over to where they were suppose to be. Jay reached for the amulet, He took Harold by the hand and ran to the spot that he knew was where they first had been. Most of the people were to confuse not to even notice them running to the center of the town square instead away from it. They were there now, Jay grab the amulet and look to see if it was glowing. While they were doing this Monsieur De Longueville saw them out of the carriage window heading toward the tables where everything was prepared. He saw with his own eyes something he could not explain. He watches Jay and Harold throw off their wigs and Hats. And that Jay reached for a necklace about his neck.

Harold darling I love you, are you ready? Jay spoke as he pulled the necklace around his neck. And held in one hand and the other hand held whom he loved dearly. Here goes…They could be heard repeating the phrases that they had prepare to say and people weren’t even noticing them, except for Eric as he was moving inside of the mercantile store and found Robert had come inside to see what was happening.. They held each other as they stood there watching what was about to take place. In the mean time Monsieur De Longueville started getting out of his carriage screaming to the soldiers to take notice of the two, but they could not hear him over the confession of the crowds. So then Monsieur De Longueville himself started to run to the spot where Jay and Harold were.

Just then the amulet stared glowing even more and there appeared a gust of wind around the two men…it was spinning in a counter clock wise motion. It started spinning quicker and quicker and all of a sudden there appeared an explosion much like fire crackers on the forth of July evening. The two men were gone with no trace. Monsieur De Longueville stopped dead in his tracks stunned, not able to speak one word. Robert and Eric stood there looking in amazement knowing that their plan had worked. They both marvel as they looked at each other. Robert knew now that there was no turning back for him; he was forever stuck in this new world.

Gustavo you did it. Robert they made it. We have succeeded, now we better get going before we are stopped and question by the soldiers. It will not be long for the General to get orders out to have everyone searched and questioned. Eric said with urgency in his voice.

The two quickly headed out the back entrance to the mercantile store, as they were heading toward the coach they were greeted by none other than Gustavo, who was dripping wet, motioning for them to hurry up.

Sirs hurry quickly; we will not have much time. They are starting to close off the roads to the city. Hurry quickly. Gustavo spoke with excitement and tension in his voice. And as they entered the carriage Eric could see tears forming in Gustavo’s eyes. As Eric closed the carriage door Gustavo makes a quick gesture on the reins as the horse start to pull the carriage along. This time Gustavo takes a different way out of the city. He was heading the back way.

Well Robert, what can I say…this should be the happiness moment in our lives to see our friends made it safely back? But somehow it is a sad event. What’s more perplexing is the fact that you willing gave up your opportunity to go back and stay with me. Don’t get me wrong…you have made me the happiest man alive and I am so grateful; but it still makes me sadden somewhat you can never go back home again. Robert you will never know just how much you have given too me. Eric speaks with tenderness and gratefulness in his voice. Eric grabs the hand of Robert tightly and squeezes it.

Well, I know I have made the right choice in my heart. I have found what I was looking for all my life. I couldn’t let it slip from my finger. I am glad I made the choice. As Robert finishes speaking Eric grabs his face with both hands and kisses him on the lips passionately. The carriage moves quickly long the back road, as Robert and Eric hold each other. Gustavo is seen pondering in his thoughts. He was so happy that he had the opportunity to do this for his dearest friends that brought him alive to his true passionate side. He was heard speaking, My dearest friends, you will never know what you have done to me; you have given me a new outlook on life that I am so grateful to you both. I shall always remember the night we spent together. I shall always cherish the thoughts. Thank you…Harold. Thank you…Jay. I will never forget the love we shared together.

Eric knew in his heart that General De Longueville would not stop until he found out what had happen the night of his birthday celebration. Of course this would be one he would soon not forget in a long time. It ended up as a mess for some but for others it was a celebration worth celebrating indeed.

Chapter Two

_

The carriage finally arrived at the plantation entrance. Monsieur Eric Soufriere yelled to Gustavo to pull up in front of the main house. Robert spoke up, Eric ,my love I still am amazed to see how in tact the house still was in time and space…Nothing seemed to change…I remember it back in my time. You monsieur Eric have kept this place in tip top shape. I marvel greatly. I remember when I first came here. It is much like a fairy tale comes true. You Eric seem to be a genie in disguise.

Eric just quickly smiled and helped Robert out of the carriage. Gustavo take care of the carriage and when you get finished please see me at once. Eric replied in haste, as Gustavo drove the carriage off to the back side of the plantation. Eric then motions for Robert to join him inside the plantation main house. They walked up the steps of the huge house passing the fluted columns that supported the veranda. Eric speaks in a lovely manner, Robert, Jalousie Plantation shall always be a place of refuge and safety for you my love. This place is now a part of you. You have brought to this place a piece of the puzzle that was missing in my life. Eric takes hold of Roberts hand and then with the other hand motion for them to go inside.

Once inside, Robert noticed immediately that the servants were right there ready for their instruction. It now was dark outside and he felt great to be inside out of the dark night air. Robert watched Eric proceed with grace and charm as he instructed each of the servants what he would like done. As the servants were heading off in all directions to do their job, Eric leans over to Robert and whispers, Well babe, it won’t be long before you will be doing the same thing I just did. I have instructed them that you are now a part of my life, you are no longer consider just a guest. Besides you are my better half and you are now equal partners with me. Eric leans over and kisses Robert on my cheek. Robert then blushes and tears start to flow down his cheeks.

Eric notices that Robert is crying. What’s wrong my love? Have I said something that has offended you?

Robert with much happiness, No Eric, in fact just the opposite you have done. You have touch my heart and made me so happy. I am crying because I am happy. My heart is bursting with much happiness, joy, and satisfaction. I just don’t know what to say at this point in time.

Then no need to say anything. Just the look on your face says it all. How about going into the parlor before we eat something, dinner will be ready shortly? Until then we can relax and unwind in peace. Beside I want to spend some quality time with you since this is our first night back at our home without the others around. Eric motions for Robert to enter into the Parlor. Robert proceeds quickly inside the parlor hoping that Eric would follow pursuit quickly.

However, just before Eric can make his move to follow Robert into the parlor he was suddenly detained by Gustavo. So sorry sir, I didn’t wish to detain you from enjoying the rest of your evening with Monsieur Devaraux. I was just returning from putting things away for the evening, making sure the horses were boarded down for the evening, having plenty to eat. I was just doing as I was instructed to do.

Oh indeed Gustavo, you have always done what I have instructed you and without question sometimes. I deeply appreciate everything you do, especially the last that you did early this evening. You were willing to risk your life in order that our friends might be saved. You even risk being caught by the soldiers doing something that most of us would never dream of doing. And as a man of my word, I promised you would be rewarded if you carried out this mission and you wouldn’t be disappointed to say the least. Eric said eagerly as he paced back and forth in the main hallway, near the entrance to the parlor.

Sir I didn’t do this for this to be rewarded or to get on the good side of you my lord. I did this for two of my dearest friends whom you gave me the privilege of knowing a short time. I wanted to do something for them because of their love they showed me, for what they taught me about being true to ones own self. I did it out of respect, wanting them to be able to return back home to where they lived. I only could imagine how hard it must have been for them to see their best friend not knowing at the time that they would not be able to see him return with them back to the future where they came from.

Gustavo, how did you know about that? Only a few of us knew what was happening. Eric said with tenderness and firmness in his voice.

Sir, do not be angry with me, Harold and Jay told me everything about their love for Ramick and what happened to him. We shared many things, not only sexuality…

As Gustavo was speaking this, his mind went back to that night when he had the opportunity to spend with Harold and Jay. He remembered how he garbed a linen cloth of the main table and threw it around his tiny waist. How he garbed the hand of Harold and Jay and leads them toward the main stairs to where there room was for that evening. He recalls vividly as if day dreaming how he lead them to the edge of the main stairs; motioning to them both to follow him upstairs to their assign room. He turned and ran all the way up stairs, as he did he recalls he let drop the linen draped around his tiny waist. He then remembers how it fell down the staircase and landed at the feet of Harold and Jay. Then he recalls how Jay bending down and picking up the linen that fell. Then he recalls saying, ‘Sirs I do declare, what is taking you so long to come and get me. Haven’t you seen a naked man before? Surely I do something to make you want me? Look up here, come and get me.’ Gustavo recalls how he was stark naked and was getting harder by the second…just then a voice interrupted his daydreaming.

Gustavo…are you all right? You seemed as if you were seeing a ghost. Eric replies with a bit of laughter in his voice but yet concern. Eric wondered what Gustavo was thinking that it got him so distracted to what they were saying. Now where were we? Oh Yes…you were telling me to not be angry with you.

Gustavo replies with humbleness. Yes, That is why I did it, not for money, not for any reward, but for something greater than all this. I did it because they helped me discover my true identity about who I am as a person, helping me discover my sexuality…not being afraid to express who I really am as a person. They made me feel alive…they made me feel the importance of being true to one’s own self.

Eric speaks up with a big smile on his face. Yes as a matter of fact, I do recall what a beautiful specimen and such a handsome one at that you were that morning you motion for me to come to your room to talk with me. You were gorgeous standing there is all your nakedness and full frontal at that. I couldn’t help but notice. And might I add also I was thrilled to see you in such a way that could stir a man’s eye to such heavenly bliss.

Gustavo then looks away as if embarrassed somewhat, Sir it does please me very much that you noticed me in my entire splendor. You have paid me a great compliment indeed. For that I have been rewarded greatly.

Eric then walks away briefly, then suddenly turns around, speaking with great happiness, Gustavo, remember I had promise you a reward and one that you would not be disappointed in, to say the least.

Yes sir, I do recall you saying that.

Eric then approaches Gustavo as he puts his hand on his shoulders. Gustavo looks at Eric with wonderment; Gustavo also notices that Eric is looking him straight in the eyes. There appears a wonderful smile as if he is well please. Then the silence is broken by the spoken words of Eric. Gustavo…No longer are you a mere servant in this household, but you now are my full pledge manager of all the servants. You also are now the overseer of this plantation; because you are now my dear friend you have earned the respect of my heart. You will answer only to me and no one else, except for Monsieur Devaraux who now has become a part of my life.

Gustavo is shock, and thrilled at the same time. My lord, I do not know what to say…

You do not half to say a word…your eyes are speaking for you. And besides you have proven yourself to be trustworthy. And that I admire in a person the most. I knew that the day you called me to your quarters to explain to me things…you weren’t afraid to tell me the truth. Not too many people would have done that. And you were not afraid to be yourself in front of me regardless how naked you were…you weren’t ashamed whatsoever. That told me that you would honor my feelings as well. You please me greatly. Now you can also move your things into the guest bedroom…that will be your new sleeping quarters as well. Now go and move you’re belongs…Enjoy your new arrangement.

Gustavo leans toward Eric and for the first time reaches over and kisses him on the cheek. Monsieur Soufriere I am flattered to say the least that you would trust me and appoint me to such a high honor as this…I will make Monsieur Robert and you very happy indeed. Now I will do as you have instructed me. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart. Gustavo then turns around and proceeds to go to his quarter to get things started for the transition of moving into his new room. As suddenly he glances over his shoulder to see Monsieur Eric giving a big smile at him and a wink. Then he quickly disappears. Eric calling out as Gustavo leaves the hallway in a hurry. See too it that you start work you new position first thing tomorrow, come see me in the morning. Monsieur Soufriere could hear Gustavo yelling back, Sir Thing my lord…will see you in the morning. Then as Eric stood silent for a brief moment he could hear the door kitchen door slam shut, he then turns toward the parlor entrance and quickly enters with a smile on his face.

Robert quickly takes notice of Eric entering the parlor as he turns from staring over the mantel at the portrait of Ramick. Oh, Eric darling, what keep you? I wonder if something had happen to you.

Yes, I was detained by Gustavo. I had some business to discuss with him concerning the job he did early this evening for all of us. Eric speaks as he approaches where Robert is standing near the hearth of the fireplace.

Yes I do recall you promise you would reward him if he succeeded in his mission of helping Jay and Harold overcomes the obstacles that were before them. Robert spoke with enthusiasm. So what happened?

Well I promoted Gustavo to the head overseer of the plantation. And the servants are now in his charge. He is the manger of them. That is the least I could do for him. He deserves so much more. I also told him he is to answer only to us.

Robert stops and stare to Eric passionately, Oh, honey, you are really serious aren’t you? Know I know that you are a man of your words. You trust me this much to lay claim to allowing me to become totally part of your life. I am so faltered and overwhelm with much joy that I am speechless. Robert states as he stare into the eye of his beloved. He stands amazed to see Eric smiling back and then putting his arms around his waist and proceeded to kiss him on the lips. After what appeared to be moments of long gaps in time, Robert then motions for Eric to seat down.

Eric my love, I worried about what might happen? You know that the general was really mad, and I feel he will stop to know ends to find out what happened. And do you think that they might come here question us. Remember that the Lieutenant of the soldiers, who had stopped us when we came into the city questioning us? You don’t suppose that he would remember all of us? What if he recalls the two ladies that were with you? What if they want to question them as well?

Robert Darling pleases try getting a hold of your self. You are putting the cart before the horse again. You must not let things upset you so. Do not make a mountain of a mole hill as my dear mother always would say to me when I was getting upset always. Let nature take it course, besides I believe that we have a greater force watching over us and protecting us from any danger that might occur. Beside it would look mighty silly if the general claims he saw what he did. No one will believe him and think he would be crazy. It would be in his best interest to forget this episode. He is losing favor with lots of town people here and he can’t afford to let something like this ruin his career. Eric then is interrupted by a man servant who enters and announces that dinner is now ready to be served. Eric motions to the servant that they will be right there. He turns to Robert and say, Robert my love, shall we get a bite to eat? After all this you must be hungry?

We yes I am to tell the truth, but not for food. Robert smiles back at Eric.

Oh, a man of much delights…you sure do know how to make a man laugh to say the least. I love that. Eric says laughing a quite laugh. He motions for Robert to follow. As they exit you can hear the Grandfather clock striking out the hour. A bewitching hour to say the least, strange it seems like only yesterday we were doing this. Well come must not let the food get cold.

Eric and Robert both head toward the dinning room. And they sit down to a meal fit for a king. The time seems to pass quickly as they are enjoying their dinner. The servant goes about doing their duties as always. After the servants had brought out the main course for the evening they retire to the kitchen area leaving