A Song in My Heart: Four Kings & a Queen

By Jacquelyn McGloster

Deciding, individually to hide in plain sight; arriving to class in Long Island University at the same time they grappled determinedly for the very same seat in the very back of the large introductory program amphitheater. They were, in no particular order, Ezra Goldman, Max Ottoman, Douglas Fields and Ira Sinclair. No class was big enough for the four of them.
Try as they might, they couldn’t decide who should occupy the coveted seat, so the seat went empty as the four young assuming gladiators stood guard. Each man had told their co-conspirators just why ‘he’ should be granted the seat. After hearing each argument, ‘No’ one willingly relinquished their hold on the seat. The class ended with those obstinate guys standing in a cluster around the vacant seat. Needless to say taking notes was difficult if not impossible while standing guard holding onto their undeserving possession.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jun 7, 2023
• ISBN: 9781669878957

Jacquelyn McGloster

Travel with author Jacquelyn McGloster as she takes her characters from the back water deep south, thru the sordid backdrop of the heart of the ghetto and moves them up and out to the affluent suburbs where there is a blend of gifted, talented, and dedicated New Yorkers spreading their good influence into the coming generation. There are challenges as well as rewards for those who dare to take this journey, to take this leap of faith!

Book preview

Copyright © 2023 by Jacquelyn McGloster.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 06/07/2023

Xlibris

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CONTENTS

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Epilogue 1

Epilogue 2

Epilogue 3

Epilogue 4

Epilogue 5

Back Book Cover

Dedication

PROLOGUE

A SONG IN MY HEART Book 3

A day, many years ago, in and about September 1, at the very start of the official school year, four impressionable young Jewish men were returning to school after a few years’ hiatus. Excited, determined to do good, but not wanting to draw undue attention to themselves unlike the young set regularly attending school, they each entered their first assigned class.

Deciding individually to hide in plain sight; arriving to class at Long Island University simultaneously they grappled determinedly for the very same seat in the back of the large introductory program amphitheater. They were, in no particular order: Ezra Goldman, Max Ottoman, Douglas Fields, and Ira Sinclair. No class was big enough for the four.

Try as they might, they couldn’t decide who should occupy the coveted seat, so the seat went empty as the four assuming young gladiators stood guard. Each man had told their co-conspirators just why he should be granted the seat. After hearing each argument, no one willingly relinquished their hold on the seat. The class ended with those obstinate guys standing in a cluster around the vacant seat. Taking notes was difficult, if not impossible, while standing guard, holding on to their undeserving possession.

The same four guys met outside the locked classroom door at the next scheduled class session, determined to sit in that desired seat. They crowded about as the professor opened the door, each making a beeline for their chair; but they were more than surprised when the teacher plopped down in the very seat, telling them to sit elsewhere.

He’d witnessed the mass confusion during the last class and wanted no part of it today. Each defiant guy grabbed a chair, dragging it to cluster about the seated teacher in the back of the room. Each different class brought a different scenario over that one seat. The teacher tried all sorts of various ploys to separate the annoying group who constantly grumbled about everything. They would not be separated, quieted, or appeased. As the class started, the class ended.

Introducing the Four Kings

Capitalizing on their similarities, they were drawn together. Amazingly, they turned out to be his best, most attentive students except for the fact they gravitated in a cluster at the back of the room to argue like silly, immature little children. They were often loud and ugly, and arguments moved with them from class to class because their discipline was alike.

At the very end of the semester, they each made the dean’s list. Another source of dissension where fractions and decimals of a point became major issues.

Behind the scenes and openly, their relationship grew, blossomed, and sparkled with life. It was actually a joy to watch them together. Not blood brothers, they were closer, more dedicated, and happier together. Time and shared love served as unbelievable lures that held them together like the strongest glue. Working together, they mounted every hurdle, conquering every challenge.

Although they were different from one another, their similarities brought fun individual improvement in character and increased individual wealth.

At the very top of his game, Ezra, easily recognized as an unofficial leader by dent of the fact he was oldest, was an exceptional, one-of-a-kind Jewelry designer. Well acquainted, ably working with all the precious metals and exclusive gemstones, he was secretly the owner of Marcel Jeweler’s, a leading store at Forty-Seventh Street in the diamond belt in NYC. Married to Hazel with whom he had five children, he was also permanently hooked up with Rebecca, a pretty young Hispanic female with three children of her own. Ezra was quick, smart, and sharp. Improvement was in his immediate future. Devoutly religious, he was actively learning Spanish.

Max Ottoman, educated under the old-school rules, was a son of First Rabbi Jacob Ottoman of the leading First Synagogue of Kings in Brooklyn. He was one of three boys raised by Rabbi Ottoman and the first son to show defiance for the holy temple by signing on as NYPD police officer. Max carried two guns.

Rabbi Ottoman, wanting all his children to be satisfied with their chosen profession, allowed the separation. Max was introduced to Evelyn Sussman, an intended mate from years ago. He could make his choice of mate if it agreed with the dictates of the Jewish sector. Max was a happy-go-lucky guy, but he knew deep down just how far he could pull the family chain. Laugh with him all the way to the world bank! He’ll tickle you pink.

Douglas Fields had disappointment after disappointment. First wanting to be a sports commentator, he studied long and hard, finally achieving his degree after four long years of study. During his school years, as the only trustworthy son, he helped in the family business to help get by: interior designing, his father’s choice. Douglas had no real interest in the subject; it was just a means to an end. Douglas longed for a microphone in hand peering into a full sports arena, not scissors, swatches, and fabrics to tastefully arrange.

Graduation came; and as a reward for good behavior, his parents took one last big excursion, which turned out to be a disaster for everyone. Life-and-death choices made it necessary for Douglas to change occupations midstream in his life. The shocker was that his talents far exceeded those of his parents. His laissez-faire attitude captured his customers’ attention. He offered clipped direction and guidance; and if he met resistance of any kind, he backed away. When his predictions showed true, the realization became evident; and always, the customer had to withdraw their objection for Doug’s choice. End of story.

As the information became widespread, he became renowned. At the top of his game, he became acquainted with Maria Wilkes, a talented musician and travel agent in her own right. Watch for the grapple of power, peace, and persistent improvement up.

Last but by no means least, there was Ira Sinclair. Ira, the youngest member, seemed to bring with him a multiple of harsh problems. Behind the scenes, he’s being primed to rise above the mighty heap, making an astounding stride forward. There will be no ceiling for his rise to ultimate power and greatness. Ira Sinclair, lower edge middle of his class, managed to eke through high school and college studying pharmacy, his choice. Since he was the proverbial pretty-boy, hot-shot lover, his grades played second fiddle to his love life. He was happy.

About the time, Ira learned to pay equal attention to his study; while still fornicating with his various partners, he was approaching graduation from pharmacy college.

His luck held, allowing him to pass his licensure testing; but he sadly realized he must learn his craft on his own if he didn’t want to ultimately fail to make mistakes that would ruin his life, keeping him in court. The world was sue-crazy, and he had to shore up his ability or else.

Walking with a book, Ira eventually became proficient at his craft. Working hard, he eventually became a head pharmacist at his brother’s large multipurpose store. It was well earned, and Ira worked long and hard. A good fuck master, Ira was the better-liked Sinclair.

Rarely, if ever, did Ira’s offer to enjoy a romp in bed gets rejected. After repeated success, Ira didn’t know how to handle rejection, never having been exposed to it. Living at home with family, he was well accepted and known at a variety of motels.

Ira, often working overtime at the large city hospital, was on duty one day when a hot-water pipe burst in the surgical narcotic room wall, destroying countless narcotic drug vials. Overwrought, Ira came in contact with Kimberly Graves, the head doctor in charge of the facility that shift.

Awed by her innate abilities, casual manner, fantastic figure, and gorgeous face, he immediately pursued her with negative results. Kimberly Graves, a young black doctor in residence, easily rejected his advance. The longer he worked to convince her to engage in an affair with him, the more he learned about the young black female doctor.

Under normal circumstances, Ira, lucky in business and lucky in love, was stymied at his inability to change Kimberly’s mind. What was he doing wrong? Will his luck hold? Will he ultimately win the prize? Why is Kimberly so persistent? Will Ira relent? Could there be more to life than more money, more fabulous sexual experience, good friends, the next new drug?

A quick mention about the other half. Sometimes the better half. Who motivated Ezra to greatness? What is the relationship between Ezra and Hazel? How does Rebecca fit into this equation? Is there an acceptance of the old-school as it relates to Max? What price is asked or paid for or by Evelyn?

Kimberly, the young black doctor, has met many pretty boys like Ira Sinclair. Has she escaped? Is she susceptible to a pretty face, a very fit body, or the almighty dollar? What of Mariah? Rodney?

The world is a big place, turning around as it does on its axis. Could it make those possibly unsteady creatures fall into those open crevices, established to sidetrack the determined?

We are all subject to pending hardships and disasters. Always, luck can offer a chance where no chance actually existed. Just wait and see.

CHAPTER ONE

Maria and Rodney Moving Up

Masterfully, almost with an undetected swagger, teenager Maria walked into her parents’ bedroom; she was mostly relieved because it was supposedly for the last time. After today, she couldn’t be happier. Much of the past ugliness would be erased by distance, all perceived pain being forced away forever. The picturesque mountains, viewed from the large window and sitting in the background, were high and inviting, majestic and full of promise about life’s lofty aspects.

The Wilkes family—all who remained—craved that promise. They needed the salvation offered to correct that which took those who recently departed and what troubled those who remained behind. To appease everyone who needed that breath of fresh air to regain the missing sure-footing feeling. The current loss was overwhelming and devastating, the experience threatening to cripple their much-needed progress. This amount of loss incorporated so much pain—so much pain.

The promise of a new beginning was needed, and the offered change was just the boost needed to give Maria Wilkes a new bounce to her step. She might inspire her younger brother, Rodney, and her slowly sinking mother, Lena, who suffered most with losing a son and husband all in one day.

As Maria approached the bed, she gazed at the long-lost serene, peaceful expression on her mother’s face; and a feeling of hope lifted her with soft buoyancy. Everyone needed that thunderous sigh of relief that crept through a being holding an uncertainty, a niggling hesitancy that something just wasn’t right.

Even at her tender age of barely sixteen, shy of several months before her seventeenth birthday, Maria never slowed her pace with a reluctance to know for sure. What she did, though, was plaster her resilient smile on her face, shaking Lena awake, who would never move again because she had left her body and this time for good. Quickly, Maria drew back her hand as if she were burned in the short contact with her mother’s cold body.

Strangely, it wasn’t the anticipated heat of fire but the abject cold that brought a chill like nothing she’d ever felt before. A cold instantly felt deep down in her soul, a cold she hoped to never feel again. Trying to ram her fisted hand down her throat, Maria meowed, whining like a stuck cat as her eyes rounded in hurt; and a flash of severe pain engulfed her, causing her to crumble down, folding into her crushed spirit.

Instinctively, Maria knew the real deal while not accepting it as fact. All the signs were there; it all fell into place like a completed puzzle—all parts locked in place. Her mother had opted to join her departed husband and most recent child, leaving both Rodney and Maria afloat to fend for themselves.

During that faithful night, Lena had given up her life here on earth. She would experience no more pain. She had been very unhappy and quiet. She only held back to ensure that Maria and Rodney had a solid chance to survive. They deserved a chance at life, and it was her solemn promise to forge a path onward and upward for her surviving offspring.

With all the many perks she could accrue in place that was due her and Donald secured and transferred to their deserving children, Lena felt their chances of survival were good. Lena had thought it through and hoped the pain and ugliness being ultimately left behind would ease eventually, allowing them to persevere in a brighter atmosphere. A case of out of sight, out of mind.

Lena knew that it wouldn’t be easy. Secretly, she willingly left directions for them to follow, using stealth and some superfluous examples to drive her ideas home. Knowing it was her intent for them to branch out alone, Lena was careful to continuously reaffirm the love both she and Donny had for them—wishing them well, wishing them an easy transference, providing them most of the necessities—and the money amassed was a small fortune.

Lena had taken her last look around, completing her last efforts to free herself and the children she was leaving behind. As life slowly ebbed away, she didn’t fight—all the fight had left her when she buried Donald—signing everything over to Maria and Rodney. A smile of its own accord crept across her face reflecting the peace she experienced. Without fanfare or any recognition, a soulless body was left in that bed; and a freed spirit floated away, hopeful for amnesty and ready to pay the price for abusing one of God’s covenants.

As Maria felt the lifeless body that was once her vibrant mother, such anguish caused her to lament with a bone-chilling, heartbreaking deep moan that rocked her body, bringing a shaking Rodney. Rodney instinctively knew something cataclysmic had transpired; and he clutched his sister, holding her for dear life. The two siblings held each other, crying for their major loss and their ever-dissipating family. All was gone but not lost because an almighty force remained.

Slowly, Maria clutched the note Lena left and as instructed, burying it deep in her packed hand luggage. Her final request was written in a shaken script, viewed through tear-streaked eyes, You’ve done well, my love. My baby girl, now call the police, freeing you and our little Rodney, and go live your wonderful life. As instructed, Maria called the police.

The patrol car occupants, both young male officers, were surprised upon arrival finding two children to carry on alone. Amazed, the police took the details, especially no mention of any note; and with no evidence of foul play, they agreed with the coroner that the death was an accident involving misapplication of a formally prescribed medication.

Neither Maria nor Rodney ever mentioned the suicide note; Lena advised against it, stating it would hold up insurance settlements. However, both read and reread those last dear words from their mother.

The officers were uncomfortable dealing with the dead parent and the very young survivors. With success, Maria transferred the keys to the new occupants of their departing home. For two additional days, they lived and worked from the fancy hotel on the main street in town (a suggestion from their mother). Then without fanfare, both Wilkes children eventually moved away, never to return to the household shared with their parents.

As per written instructions, Lena Wilkes’s remains were cremated; and on the first breezy day, she requested her ashes be released from the main pier in Toms River, New Jersey, where she spent the best years of her short life.

Until her release, the remains were kept in an urn locked away in their new home. It was the first chilly but warming spring day where both Maria and Rodney journeyed back to Toms River, emptying their mother’s urn into the sea. Before nightfall, Maria and Rodney were well away from their origins. The arrangements were that they would start over in New York; and they did with much success. Had Donald and/or Lena lived to see the results, they both would have been proud. Both Wilkes were dynamic.

******

After the birth of the last Wilkes baby who was never given a name—and his handicap was devastating for everyone—the entire family experienced a setback. By a mere ten weeks, the entire family was so looking forward to being a family of five before birth. Donald Donny Wilkes, the proud father, eagerly notified his employer, anticipating the joyous event. Lena Wilkes, the anticipating mother of three, also invited her coworkers to celebrate their blessed occurrence.

Maria Wilkes was an almost-seventeen-year-old daughter. A music major, she had graduated early from Toms River High School with honors. Maria had applied and was accepted into Juilliard Music School in New York with a highly coveted scholarship. Rodney Wilkes, six years old, was also a recognized child prodigy. Each Wilkes family member jumped for joy, awaiting the new and different.

The third child’s birth so startled everyone, bringing such ugliness. First, the new baby was immediately adjudged failure to thrive, requiring highly professional skills and very advanced services just to survive. Both new parents were immediately notified of this fact, which created a dilemma because the insurance companies immediately disavowed all responsibility and/or potential cost for said services deemed necessary for meager ADLs. Because the cost for extenuating services would be needed for the entire length of time the child survived, the only logical recourse opened to the parents was for them to denounce the said child. It allowed him to become a ward of the state where being placed in the highly specialized institutions was highly advised because of the designated care of like children. The payment for care was impossible to manage individually.

The options were difficult, if not impossible, for loving, caring individuals to handle without extensive counselling. The rainy night of the child’s birth, while trying to acclimate himself to the problems facing him and his family, Donald Donny Wilkes, who’d traveled this familiar winding path to and from his home for years, had a car accident where his car swerved into an embankment. Some surmised that he quickly lost footing because he was distracted or that his ability to solve minor problems was retarded. In reality, all the fight to continue living caused him to surrender and went over a railing into the inky rising waters. He drowned, leaving his traumatized wife to deal with the entire situation. In hearing the complete story, the investigating highway officer hurriedly filled out the accident report, closing his case. He saw no need to prolong anyone’s agony.

Signing over her unnamed baby boy into the care of professionals was painful. Burying her husband, her lifemate, was painful. What she was doing got to be impossible. She resigned from her job. Without fanfare, she placed their home on the open market, ready to leave everything known behind. Collecting her severance pay and all insurances, she sold their house and purchased another smaller nondescript home away in New York.

Lena had grown to adulthood in and about New Jersey; and although New Jersey and New York bordered each other, she’d never visited New York before this encounter. She had enough presence of mind to have alongside her name both Maria’s and Rodney’s names to the deed.

The night before their big move, Lena apparently mistook a medication. She was found that morning by her daughter and son. No reported note was left. Amazingly, Maria and little Rodney followed directions left where Lena requested cremation and the release of her ashes. The remaining family of two moved as directed, closing a traumatic segment to a promising, unfulfilled Wilkes destiny.

As directed, together, Maria and Rodney Wilkes held tight to each other. Unbeknownst to those who surrounded them, their greatness was coming. Away in the great beyond, a silent cheer rolled toward them, bringing love unbelievable for both. It was so decreed!

CHAPTER TWO

Lena’s Goodbye

Just as there was a meager shift in the eternal gloom and doom of the atmosphere, Maria felt deep down in her bones it was the right time to comply with the final directive issued by her mother. Over meager resistance offered by her younger brother, Rodney, she hastily made the necessary arrangements. Like before, she and Rodney journeyed by prepaid and exclusive-ordered limousine to the almost-hostile, emptied shoreline in Toms River, New Jersey.

Spreading ashes wasn’t what Maria wanted to do with her Saturday; but by examining recent events, their free time threatening to be so consumed by other obligations, it boggled the mind at how obligations could so overwhelm a body.

While new circumstances weren’t always a part of their obligations to maintain the status quo, working hard to fit in with their developing significant others, both Wilkes made time where limits existed and kept the faith.

Only scant weeks after, when they arrived here in New York without chick, child, or friend, they now were inundated with potential significant others. While Rodney was slow to warm to others, there was one boy: Devin Brooke, a young black boy, the same age who seemed to stand out among the many encountered. They grew rapidly on each other.

ENTER FOR LIFE—DEVIN BROOKS

While Devin found it strange that Rodney was missing both parents, openly and constantly trying to get details about the mega loss with Rodney flatly refusing to discuss his family situation, both boys miraculously clung. Their similar temperaments, superior mental acuity, and their like needs and desires drew them together. A big positive aspect of their attraction for each other was that both boys seemed equally suited.

While their focuses differed, their sharp abilities were identical in scope; and their desire to involve themselves in all manner of sports anchored them to each other.

Maria, from the very beginning, always excelled with school matters. When it was Rodney’s turn, he easily matched her every step of the way. Early on, Rodney, like Maria, recognized that neither Wilkes had difficulty mastering the basics; and advanced studies quickly drew their attention. Rodney accepted his gift without further question, moving blithely from one plateau to the next up the rung.

Maria, early on placed in a quasi-supervisory role whereby she readily accepted responsibility for her brother, Rodney, followed the example set by her parents. Maria pondered her and Rodney’s innate abilities and eventually acknowledged their inherited blessing. Peering myopically at her brother hurdling every obstacle with no challenge, Maria breathed a sigh of relief, relaxing her vigil. His gifted abilities would carry him forward; her contributions rested somewhere near her ability to morally influence him. With God’s grace, they would muddle through okay!

Rodney had no difficulty with studies, thankfully thinking it a gift. When Rodney showed signs of excelling, coupled with the ease in which their father breezed through college to become an engineer, sailing through every test without difficulty resulted in both younger Wilkes ultimately being considered prodigies.

Still deeply planted in Rodney’s unconscious was the niggling idea of further destruction to manifest itself with the birth of any future Wilkes. This deep-rooted fear didn’t readily show itself, but Rodney knew it was there; and as quiet as it was kept, Maria felt it lurked just below the surface somewhere, poisoning the memory of their beloved parents or the thought of any future Wilkes.

Coexistence was a relative thing. They moved along without incident as the two Wilkes family members grew closer to each other while instituting themselves into a new and dynamic existence involving very different others.

MARIA’S MUSIC

Maria’s love and absorption with music came as a big plus in Rodney’s life. Music developed the ability to soothe him—to make him joyful when he was saddened. Some music sat comfortably in his background, allowing him to work unobtrusively while different tones and beats had him tapping his toes, clapping his hands, and raising his voice in song to the exclusion of other work. Maria encouraged every aspect of music exciting Rodney, motivating him—some allowing him to relax falling asleep, freeing his busy mind so he used the needed rest periods for positive ventures and ends.

MARIA AND RODNEY—PRODIGIES

When and if Rodney came to Maria hesitantly with a question, it was mainly a curiosity, not with any confusion or ineptitude. Maria breathed a sigh of relief while watching Rodney breeze through the basics, sailing on into the more complicated and diverse.

Amazingly, Rodney readily developed and focused his attention on medicine; and without a qualm, Maria quickly researched their finances. It was always a pleasure while studying the humdrum numbers found in their joint accounts to determine they could afford his education without difficulty while still allowing for her extras. Assured they would manage with the least help, she turned her total attention back to the study of music: composition, orchestration, and arrangement.

Both Wilkes enjoyed the attention showered upon them because of their innate abilities that hadn’t an opportunity to shine when all the ugliness tore their family apart. With the complete change of venue, the uplifting atmosphere, and the positive focus on innovative materials both, Wilkes leaped with both feet, soaring.

As an accepted, talented, and exciting novice working with music, Maria became rapidly knowledgeable about the latest, loudest, innovative instruments, sound-promoting synthesizers, and visually stimulating items available that drew others into her chosen field of endeavor. Many new and innovative items cluttered her area in their shared home, spilling over and saturating spaces designated for Rodney. Rodney couldn’t appreciate his sister’s efforts more and welcomed the intrusion without a qualm. The many parts of initial experiments resting about—awaiting updates, modifications, or necessary improvements—could sit undisturbed. Once or twice finding the odd experiment, Maria was tempted to explore its mechanism; yet when questioning Rodney, Maria was given details far beyond her scope of comprehension. Shaking her curly head negatively, Maria decided it no longer interested her, leaving it to sit undisturbed until ultimately disappearing. After all, she had her music.

MARIA’S MUSIC AND RODNEY’S RESEARCH

Giving music all her attention, studying every document, and explaining its how-to, Maria cultivated a fine appraising ear. She became a novice dynamo in her field. When just Maria and Rodney were home together, Maria usually blasted her music, prompting Rodney to laugh uproariously as he complained about going deaf with her. A lot of her expertise rubbed off on Rodney; and because of Maria’s tutelage, Rodney also developed a fine ear for much music. Neither Wilkes had a musical preference. They each became knowledgeable and comfortable in all the genres.

Maria found the greatest freedom and inner fun working with Disney music. Most songs were well-known, catchy, and upbeat. There were at least a thousand and one ways to accentuate, expose, and illuminate each rendition, all becoming new, exciting, readily accepted, and highly valued in more than one area.

Music was a vast undertaking. It included reading notes, spacing, and understanding significant timing. It wasn’t just tapping your toes to a catchy beat. Maria loved music—all music—and the longer she involved herself, the greater her appreciation. In the silence of her mind, Maria heard music: lovely music, wild music, soothing music, all music. Maria never tired of music.

Music to Maria was all abounding and harmonious; it was her joy. Music to Rodney became a motivator, an incentive, and an inspiration. It promoted a relaxing atmosphere where he could produce magic. Maria’s music was Rodney’s computer, his DNA molecule, his genetic code; and while he could work independent of these various items, when music is used with his expert mind, there was no telling just how high his range expanded.

Maria long realized money wasn’t an issue for her or Rodney, but neither Wilkes was a squanderer. Rodney and Devin seemed to get great pleasure signing up, attending the large city colleges and free programs at the accredited universities, and applying for much subsidy and/or scholarship funds for which they readily qualified for. Their innate abilities qualified them for much free help, and it was the challenge of who got the most help first that seemed to trigger their early course selection.

While Devin remained faithful and dedicated to the study of making money, several course subjects that required his attention also appeared on Rodney’s curriculum at their entry-level. Like Devin, Rodney accepted the silent challenge of putting his name down on the dotted line; and both friends attended class, giving the different subjects the cursory attention necessary to maintain their 4.0 GPA while focusing their dedication to their particular subject.

For Rodney, it was the dynamic, thought-provoking DNA molecule that governed the makeup of each person. With his counterpart Devin, his focus was just how the stock market could be manipulated or how new companies found their place alongside well-known listed firms. Both young men watched hypnotized as their acquired knowledge grew proportionate to their vast learning and real dedication.

******

Because she spared no expense with items necessary to remain active in her trade, Maria always obtained the latest and most appropriate innovations, feeling slightly overindulgent. She watched her brother and his friend Devin scrimp and save every penny jokingly as they made good on an exceptionally brilliant education. Each boy or young man seemed talented enough that sufficient money materialized to carry them from one plateau to the next higher plain through recognition by their peers because of their expertise.

There was no question it was well deserved because eventually they would bring wonders unimaginable into their chosen profession, setting records, answering questions, and pointing the way to positive attributes that would ultimately change much that was bad into that was gloriously good.

As a whim, during one of their many conversations, highly talented and very diverse Devin requested Rodney to support his beliefs in Devin’s ability to invest and control the Wilkes finances, ensuring profits with his keen money-making skills.

It was a brief suggestion but one Rodney firmly believed in wholeheartedly. Without a qualm, Rodney immediately contacted Maria, directing her to release at least $15,000 of his inheritance so he could put his money where his mouth was. He finished the missive with a big exclamation point. During the initial transaction, Maria had many misgivings about Devin. He was so young in control of so much money that it might create an impact that could have a negatively lasting effect.

Maria soon learned her fears were unfounded and groundless; and as a consequence, she increased sums, more than doubling the original amount. Surprise wasn’t the word Maria ultimately expressed when speaking about Devin’s skills in manipulating money. From the first review, Rodney’s steadfast belief in his friend’s competent ability was seconded by an awed Maria who readily raised the amount to over the hundred-thousand-dollar mark.

Since the siblings maintained their frugal lifestyle, only Devin seemed to know that Rodney and Maria soon topped the million-dollar limit. Devin was surprised when he realized their collective wealth was so sizable, but nothing allowed him not to give their accounts continuous perusal and needed updates.

After a fashion, where Rodney stopped constantly checking his balance, watching his money grow, leaving the results for success completely in Devin’s hands, the overall checks came when Rodney desired to buy something.

Maria soon adopted the same attitude, only paying attention when she was ready to travel out of the country. Because she worked primarily on commission, not hourly, and her travels were primarily ‘fam’s’ where those sponsors who desired visitors follow their protocol, using their hotels, selected airlines, shopping in their chosen stores, eating in their restaurant’s extended many pluses to those who sent business their way, opting to use these packaged trips.

Relatively soon, Maria’s passport carried many stamps. With the needed extended pages, she still had to renew earlier than the ten years allotted.

Oh, what joy to be on the outside looking in, seeing the improvements needed come to life and make history! Rodney had been issued a front-row seat to Maria’s many contributions, and he was given equal opportunity to also be on the receiving end for her accomplishments.

Maria heaved a shaky sigh, thinking of what she might do to contribute to the budding Wilkes family’s overall acceptance. Music was her destiny, her love, and it promised to be the vehicle that transported them to posterity. Because of her age and place in the family structure, she would be first!

She casually mentioned her mild dilemma to schoolmate Cassandra who frowned at such trivia, not giving the matter credence; both girls became busy trying to think of something good Maria might do to help others, like that which motivated Rodney to help humanity.

Soon they were joined in the Julliard cafeteria by another classmate, Allie, who eagerly invited herself into their midst, readily admitting she needed to hurry.

Hastily wolfing down her plain yogurt, black coffee, and protein bar, Allie listened as she ate. Not sparing any wasted time, she agreed Maria might better use her time being more productive. Being practical-minded, she blithely suggested Maria think about getting a job just before she departed. Allie thought that having more money available to meet sudden upcoming needs would spread joy, making life easier. Working never crossed Maria’s mind. Her financial position never affected her need for anything. With the innovation, Maria suddenly thought that work might bring more to the table than mere money.

She pondered on how getting a job might help her situation. She couldn’t imagine, yet Maria walked about in a daze for days. Unknown windows opened, piquing Maria’s interest.

Closely scrutinizing the want-ads only planted doubt in her mind, wrinkling her brow when she realized she wasn’t trained to fit into any mold. Looking about herself only made her more morose. She was trained for nothing! Drifting downward, Maria often felt like crying because of her ineptitude with life’s demands.

In her deepest despair, sitting alone over a cup of strong coffee at a chilled outdoor cafe, she glanced across the street, seeing for the first time a small travel agency. With her attention fixed thereat, her inner voice kept motivating her to get up and go inside. Shaking her head violently, trying to convince herself that it was a crazy idea, she wasn’t ready to take a trip anywhere. She was knee-deep in her studies. Plus, if she took a trip, what would Rodney do alone in their house?

Rodney—also enwrapped in his studies, very involved in his sports, engrossed in developing new and exciting relationships—wouldn’t welcome an interruption at this time to the break in creating miracles with his special abilities time. The feeling of crossing the street and entering the small darkened interior was almost overwhelming.

Unable to understand the whys or wherefores, Maria rose to her feet, hastily paid her tab, and walked with determination and purpose directly into the travel agency. It was the middle of the afternoon, and the sun was at its peak. Dust seemed to float in the almost-still air; and the quiet was unusual for some unknown reason. The place was empty but opened for business. Meekly, Maria called out like she was a customer needing service. Hello, she called out, looking anxiously about. When greeted with more silence, Maria called louder, Hello! Hello . . . Anyone here? Gazing boldly about herself, Maria even looked back across the street from where she came. Her table was still empty; but others sat about where the waiter was now flittering, bringing utensils, water, and menus.

Her attention now focused on the customers in the cafe, Maria felt a second of alarm when the little woman, who’d silently arrived at her side, lightly touched her arm. Both women looked surprised at each other. Maria clutched her chest as a bright smile spread about Mrs. Sloan’s face.

MARIA-ANASTASIA SLOAN TRAVELS

First to recover, Mrs. Sloan signaled for Maria to take a seat at the cluttered desk where she stood. Maria sighed, shaking her head negatively, but sat down as she just indicated she would not do. Mrs. Sloan perched daintily at the desk, looking expectantly at apparently troubled Maria awaiting her response. Maria was at a total loss, looking helplessly at the older woman, realizing she now needed to come up with an explanation for her presence and insistence in summoning help.

Taking the bull by the horns, Mrs. Sloan, seeing the confusion and unsettled fidgeting in Maria, asked, Thinking about taking a trip? In need of a vacation, a quick restful getaway? She looked at Maria directly in her evasive eyes. Maria, more confused now that she was confronted and challenged to answer for her abrupt presence, stammered, making excuses, No. I was across the street . . . She waved her hand haplessly in that direction, looking beseechingly at the other woman for guidance. Suddenly Maria’s whole continence broke, her face crumpled, and tears appeared rolling down her cheeks in flood. Further conversation was impossible. Compelled to soothe the younger woman, Mrs. Sloan, displaying unimagined strength, hoisted Maria to her feet, allowing her to rest her head in the cruck of her shoulder and stroking Maria’s back rhythmically, immediately soothing her, offering a peace so desperately needed.

Maria cried tears that came from deep within—tears she wasn’t allowed to shed when her poor, handicapped brother came and left this life without her getting to tell him he was loved. Tears poured out of her when she stood stoic beside her equally grieving brother, Rodney, when they said goodbye to their loving parent, that day when they alone stood out in the open at the New Jersey shore near Toms River, letting her mother’s ashes float on tides winding out to sea.

Maria cried for all the loss she experienced in her young life: the promise of a supportive family, the parents standing arms about the sagging shoulder, the missing words of confidence. Mrs. Sloan didn’t utter a word; she stood quiet, holding the quieting Maria as an unknown peace entered Maria, saturating her being. A sudden feeling of embarrassment caused Maria to avert her ashamed eyes while wadding up tissue, holding it to her face. Astute, Mrs. Sloan released her grip on Maria; and both exhausted women reclaimed their occupied seats. Nodding, Mrs. Sloan smiled at Maria, saying, There now, little miss, I hope you feel better because I needed that!

An apprehensive Maria looked at Mrs. Sloan for direction. The contented smile coming to her from Mrs. Sloan was a godsend. At a loss for words, Maria looked toward Mrs. Sloan again for direction and guidance.

Quietly, Mrs. Sloan said, Sometimes he brings people together to remind us that he is watching and waiting for that right moment. It’ll be okay. So, dearie, tell me your name. Sheepishly, Maria fiddled with her fingers, a shy look about her as she peeked up at Mrs. Sloan.

My name is Maria Wilkes, and I attend the Juilliard School of Music. To indicate the noted location’s significance, Maria pointed in a vague direction somewhere behind her back. Mrs. Sloan, saying nothing, continued to smile, encouraging the younger girl. Forging onward, Maria said, Not too long ago, I’ve lost both my parents and a baby brother. Maria’s lower lip trembled; but courageously, she heaved a sigh, blinking back tears, letting the ugly truth spill from her overburdened soul. But I’ve had to be strong for my remaining little brother, Rodney. It was awful for me, and I can’t imagine just how terrible losing one’s entire family is for a child. Rodney was only seven then. He’s ten now and seems better. Lowering her head, slowly shaking it from side to side, Maria hiccupped. Her lower lip trembled, and new tears threatened to fall. I don’t understand what just happened, but I guess I needed a shoulder to cry on, and there you were.

Mrs. Sloan continued to smile and nod. She said, My name is Anastasia Sloan, and I’m proprietor here. I considered myself a globetrotter until recently. I’ve always loved to travel and have organized so many tours and trips all over this world that some of the nondescript places have become hazy over time. Some of my greatest joys have been off-the-beaten track with unknown foreigners as witnesses, cohorts, and celebrants. Heaving a tremendous sigh herself, blinking away a painful memory, Anastasia Sloan smiled sadly as she patted Maria’s hand that rested on the corner of the cluttered desk.

The two women fell silent as they each watched the other, anticipating the next move. For some unknown reason, these two individuals were forming a bond, something that would service them both, Crazy? Yes!

Momentarily ashamed, Maria physically resisted the strong urge to jump and flee this unsettling feeling—a feeling that produced a sense of obligation. How could she have so suddenly become indebted to this gentlewoman unknown to her mere moments ago? Maria fixed her undivided attention on Anastasia Sloan’s face, suddenly recognizing the sadness resting there. Impulsivity prompted Maria to clutch Anastasia’s hand, lacing her fingers with that of the older woman. Was it my tale of woe that’s caused you such pain? I’m so sorry. It wasn’t intentional. Please let me help you to make it all better.

Having spoken in an uplifting manner, Maria tried hard to focus on the quivering silence that hung about them, wanting desperately to understand this woman who had willingly accepted her grief, freely offering unlimited solace, sharing the weight of Maria’s mighty burden. Taking a hard look around, Maria began actively moving to flee the weighted burden she was imposing so unwittingly on others. Anastasia, offering genuine acceptance, would not be put off.

Commiserating by sharing this weighty burden, Anastasia again patted Maria’s hand. She sighed, reminiscing, We all have our crosses to bear. I’ve indulged my wanderlust, leaving many of my significant others to accept and carry the hardships life imposes, moving just before the crushing blows that cripple those weaker, less prepared for a disaster or those who can’t manage to get out of the way of the lowering boom. She shook her head, her vision fixed somewhere beyond her immediate location, possibly a great distance in space and time. You and your brother have today. Treasure today. It comes with its blessing, its reward. Overwhelmed, Maria nodded one final time then without further conversation stood, looked Anastasia in the eye, turned, and walked out of the quiet travel agency office.

Journeying home, Maria encountered no one else. Reaching home, she fixed a quick meal, which she ultimately ate alone; Rodney again ate with his friend, Devin. She was hypnotized yet inexplicably drawn back to experience more of the peace and contentment that rose and surrounded her in that quiet travel agency; it took a mere two days before Maria returned to visit Anastasia Sloan after the end of her studies that ordinary day.

This time, their conversation was lighter in context. Maria told her new friend about her love of music. Anastasia was unusually busy with a difficult booking of excursions from a cruise ship sailing around in the Mediterranean. Maria listened with rapt attention about the ports of call. Somehow Maria felt the call of a new wanderlust.

Without conscious thought, it became almost a daily routine for Maria to stop and visit Anastasia; and miraculously, as time passed, Maria so enjoyed the stories about travel she came to infect others with her repeated tales of travel here and abroad. Naturally, Maria inadvertently drew increased clients to Anastasia Sloan’s business, reversing recent days’ slump.

To show her appreciation, Anastasia encouraged Maria to travel herself, which she did with Anastasia’s blessing as representative of the agency, always at a reduced travel rate or as a fam representative. Traveling on fams—those trips for agency representatives and local travel workers to expose and encourage travel using specific hotels, restaurants, routes, and designated stores—allowed Maria to see the world on a shoestring.

Here again, the blessing of being friendly with the Brooke family served both Rodney and Maria. Understanding Maria was developing a new job potential, Devin shifted over readily, allowing Rodney to bunk with him and the family. In truth, the two boys acted more like long-lost brothers. Rodney was drawn under Samuel’s wing, often thinking of him as a father figure. Watching Samuel, Devin and Rodney gave pause only because Rodney was white.

With Rodney situated and gently encroached in the Brooke household where after the fact he grew to be accepted as belonging, Maria released her inability to travel. The world was her backyard. She was gone more than she was at home, never shirking her responsibility to her first love: music. Piece by piece, Rodney moved into the Brooke family, routinely coming and going to pick up odd items, gathering the mail, relocking his empty home, and journeying back to the Brooke household with his constant companion, Devin Brooke.

During the beginning of this arrangement, when Maria offered and sent money to the Brooke parents to compensate and forestall any potential extra expense they might incur with Rodney eating, sleeping, and living there, the reprimand from Samuel was swift and without question frightening.

Maria quickly apologized and withdrew further thoughts of paying her and Rodney’s way. The Brooke family was thoughtful; this benevolence was rewarded with Maria offering the Brooke family many extraordinary gifts of foreign artwork, expensive trinkets, unusual rare items, and one-of-kind keepsakes from her strange, exotic, and different ports of call.

Constantly worrying about her and Rodney not being fair with their dealings, taking too much, and not giving back anything to the Brookes, Maria touched upon an easy method of reward for their thoughtfulness when she shared her travel.

It was one of many opportunities where Maria, time permitting, gathered both boys, Rodney and Devin, taking them on short joints such as weekend hot-air balloon rides over the Grand Canyon, a quickie trip to Mount Rushmore, a visit to the Carlsbad cavern in New Mexico, or a four-day Caribbean cruise. They were in heaven, and Maria felt better contributing to their enjoyment. Rodney and Devin still carried their weight, excelling in their chosen field of endeavor: Rodney, medicine, and Devin, finance.

Juilliard was Maria’s first obligation, her first love; and without question, she was dedicated to learning everything possible so she too could excel in her chosen profession. She could never shirk her duty because, like the busy boys, she was dedicated to music. Maria worked hard to stay abreast of her subject. She marveled at the intricate movements that captured a person’s undivided attention—the mind, soul, and spirit—raising someone high above all else or depositing the same body down low below the bowels of the earth, all manipulated with mere sound.

She learned to read music, and it became more real to Maria when by just looking at the notes that represented sounds, she could hear an entire symphony in her head surrounded by abject silence—and she smiled with joy.

There was no question music captured her attention, and it was a solid portion of her being. Maria did not doubt that music would play a big part in her future just like her newest source of pleasure: travel.

Travel allowed her to see many places and meet countless others she wouldn’t encounter staying in one place. Her understanding of different ideas magnified with seeing up close and personal how different approaches were instituted because of climate change or the shortage of one substance and an overabundance of another. Maria knew language barriers and the need to overcome stigmas that burden others, making their lives unbearable.

Over top of all the pain, the staunch upper-crust individuals who seek to hoard the goods for themselves while burdening the masses with a pittance of the pie, she came to witness that life inevitably existed in a vast vortex where periodically there was a tremendous rumbling upheaval, a churning where those on the top were swept around and about, landing back into the center of the universe with the masses. The result was everyone scrambled, trying to get a foothold, trying to climb up and out of the sucking pits where some sank into oblivion. Then there were the fortunate ones who climb above the seeping disaster away from omnipresent clinging quicksand, while others just kept their heads up enough to breathe occasionally.

Life’s lesson wasn’t lost on Maria for her being young and inexperienced with Anastasia Sloan standing at her side, guiding her along step by step. As Anastasia had stood at Maria’s side, watchful and attentive when a hand was necessary, Anastasia reached out, buoying her, easing the pain, showing her the way, and celebrating the victory when Maria reached solid ground.

Anastasia breathed easier as she watched Maria turn abruptly, grabbing her outstretched hand, pulling her up and out of the quagmire that threatened to swallow everyone up whole.

Maria hugged the waning Anastasia, holding her tight and upright until her footing was sure. Anastasia, the experienced and aged one, thanked her unusual savior and twenty other responsible bodies because she’d done right when called upon and now she was reaping her reward.

Thoughtfully, yet as an afterthought, Anastasia offered Maria a job as an assistant; and it was the first time the two women discussed money and work assignments. Maria readily accepted the final offer, understanding music was her passion. School came first. Rodney needed her, and family was a close second; but with those two entities out of the way, Maria was all hers!

Maria threw herself into her latest pleasure, and their relationship took off like a bullet fired from an automatic weapon: rapidly, with a sure aim. The advertisement was a great inducement. The more customers she brought to the small agency, the wider the range Anastasia exposed Maria to. It was fortunate that Rodney and Devin were so compatible and drawn to each other because it freed Maria to globetrot on a megascale. No longer involved in a sedentary life with just music to soothe her, Maria was everywhere all at the same time.

A Wrinkle in Time

A strange feeling of disquiet seemed to permeate the very air of their first solitary home, where she and Rodney were starting over. Not identifying the source, Maria scrunched up her nose as she peered into every nook and cranny for what was causing her such displeasure. The house was clean, not a hair out of place. Peering about herself, she stood in the room looking over the unusual atmosphere, wondering just what was going on. Maria felt a niggling of fear rise up like a giant behemoth, moving with great stealth, touching nothing in its travels, just watching beyond the perimeter waiting to pounce, to destroy.

Not finding a clue for her disquiet, Maria unpacked from her latest trip. Her work consumed her time, and it was when noisy Rodney burst into the house banging doors and shouting over her music that Maria realized there was a subtle change in her Rodney. Watching him flitter about his unsettled aura made her pay particular attention to her brother with grave concern.

Contrary to what she remembered, her baby brother was now a gangly young man, showing strides toward adulthood, no longer that eager, starry-eyed boy. The outward change only brought home the overall changes she’d missed being so involved with her agenda of school, working at the travel agency, and being away from him for those long stretches of time. Unsure of her next move, Maria watched with an unusual disquiet, pondering positive intervention that would help settle both the skittish Rodney and agitated Maria.

Without further thought, Maria said, I see you’ve been here cleaning while I’ve been away. Did Devin stay over here with you? What are you boys up to?

At that moment, Rodney tightened up, shook himself, blinked, and mumbled something incoherent. A sheepish smirk crossed his beautiful face, only adding to her unease. Rodney blithely changed the subject, saying, No, I was studying with a new friend Elliott. You remember Elliott, sis? I’ve written a new manuscript for the AMA, and they’re interested in publishing it. I’ve refined it, sending the final copy in. It looks good to go.

Maria’s eyes showed admiration for her little brother who was so talented. The topic of recognition for his work turned the conversation into a different direction, and excitement took over their conversation as Rodney well knew it would. Rodney wasn’t happy discussing his very personal, intimate, and sexual budding relationship with Elliott with someone responsible; he first had to come to grips with his feelings about it.

The thought of his being gay came with a negative connotation and was so disconcerting Rodney wanted to hide everything. It was unfortunate that his relationship with Devin had hit a rocky point. Since Elliott had initiated him to the pleasures of sex, new and alien but unbelievably mind-blowing, it never crossed Rodney’s mind that people did such things to and with each other.

Just the thought of those mind-blowing hours he spent lying beneath Elliott’s inviting mouth, Rodney felt the tightening of the muscles in his groin. With the sudden explosion in his mind’s eye and his penis getting stiff, Rodney felt the need to flee his sister’s presence.

Maria asked fifty questions about his new manuscript, making him recall details he’d salted away for future reference. The information floating around in his head was very precise. His primary concern involved activity that occurred in the upper alleles and fingerprinting of the DNA molecule.

ELLIOTT’S ENFORCED CHANGE

Rodney knew of the fact that except for identical twins, no two people on this earth have identical DNA. When Rodney thought and spoke about his life’s ambition, he was exact. He had to maintain a precise protocol. It was the only way one could work in this area. Mistakes were detrimental, life-shattering, and deadly. Now that he’d brought Elliott to mind, all he wanted to do was recapture the rapture experienced while in the throes of passion, not focusing on helping the world rise from deep despair or correcting congenital defects.

Rodney wanted to spend more time with his sister but was finding it difficult to focus. His only recourse was to lie. Rodney snapped his finger like he’d just remembered something, telling Maria he promised to call Devin. Maria laughed good-naturedly, waving her brother off, saying, Go on. I’ll have dinner right away. You talk to your friend entirely too much. We’ll talk more at dinner.

Rodney safely escaped, entering his bedroom, locking his door. Seating himself, Rodney heaved a sigh as he exposed his penis, grinning to himself. Like the cat that ate the canary and got away with the crime, Rodney rested his head against his headboard, bringing to mind his encounter with Elliott.

Both Devin and Rodney knew there was something not right about meek and mealymouthed Elliott, one guy on the new soccer team they were trying out for. He moved creepily, got too close when he spoke to you, and always wanted to touch you.

Meanwhile, his best buddy, Devin, had developed a cloak-and-dagger relationship with an older woman: Blanche Cayne, his mother’s friend who’d just lost her husband of twenty-nine years. She was having difficulty managing her financial portfolio; supposedly, she made bad decisions, losing quite a lot of her savings.

Devin found her exciting for some undetermined reason, and he initiated, according to Devin, a mind-blowing sexual relationship. It was one of the many occasions where Rodney covered for Devin’s disappearing act.

Elliott had often asked both boys over to his house (supposedly a small mansion) for a private pool party. Between his work, management of several financial accounts, tedious and very involved study regarding finance, many sporting events, and now his clandestine affair with his mother’s friend, Devin had little time left over. Devin kept all that he juggled afloat, and time was wearing on him. Rodney jumped at it with both feet, ready to help wherever he could. Devin never questioned Rodney. He was too busy himself, doing everything all at one time.

As luck would have it, with Devin away so much of the time, Rodney quietly invited Elliott over to his empty house for a private dinner. Rodney never imagined just what Elliott had in mind, believing in his heart it involved clandestine activities. Without question, when Elliott jumped at the invite, Rodney’s suspicions presented themselves.

Elliott was excited when he discovered they were alone. It was hard for him to contain himself, which he did poorly. Devin, intent on spending more time with Blanche, never batted an eye as Rodney slinked away for a mysterious dinner alone with Elliott. Rodney barely ate the great meal Rodney prepared; and while cleaning afterward, he did such a spectacular job it didn’t go unnoticed by a suspicious Maria upon her return two days later.

Elliott all but cried real tears as he whined and begged Rodney to allow him just a little taste. Confused but tempted, Rodney did little more than stand in his sister’s bedroom in front of her large screen TV watching Elliott drop to his knees before him. He made a production of unzipping Rodney’s pants, and Elliott’s eyes lit up as he pulled Rodney’s penis out. Fondling and caressing it, he grinned at Rodney. The feelings were so glorious to Rodney he forgot to feel guilty or embarrassed, and watching the act unfolding before him was so stimulating poor Rodney ejaculated all over the floral-printed chenille bedspread. He was incapable of any control. His reaction captivated the eager Elliott who outdid himself, masterfully exciting the novice beyond all restraint. From that first orgasm until the last where Rodney cried out helplessly, allowing Elliott total control, that first time was the deciding factor for the captivated Rodney.

The act of kissing his genitals had Rodney instantly as stiff as a steel rod. His legs threatened to buckle beneath him where Elliott gently encouraged Rodney to undress from the waist down. Lying on his sister’s bed, Elliott filled his mouth repeatedly, allowing Rodney to thrust his penis deep into his throat. It didn’t take long for Rodney to ejaculate, and he did try to withdraw his penis out of Elliott’s mouth.

Elliott held Rodney’s hips, drawing deeply, encouraging him to cum. Rodney let go, putty in Elliott’s hands; and for the first time in his life, Rodney