Ty backed his work truck up the driveway at the house. He was looking over his shoulder as he did it. The studio was coming into his view as he came near the back corner of the house. He stopped there and put the big truck in park, shutting it off. He got out and went to the bed, reaching in and started sliding the sheet of plywood that he needed for the ramp. He carried it over to the corner of the house and set it down, leaning it against the house.
Next were the 2X’s he had brought, pulling them out, placing them near the sheet on the ground. He went to the cab, opened the passenger door, reached in, pulled out the box of construction screws, walked over and set them on the upper step of the house, out of the way. He turned around and smiled as there was a bleary-eyed Aiden standing at the man door of the studio in his underwear, scratching the top of his head.
“Morning, sunshine.” Ty said with a raised eyebrow, “Or should I say…afternoon.”
“What’s goin’ on?” Aiden asked.
“Brought some stuff home to build the ramp for Greg.”
“A ramp?”
“Yeah, remember, for the wheelchair?” Ty asked.
“Oh yeah.”
“Sorry if I woke you up, bud.”
“It’s alright. I should get up anyway and get ready to go to the hospital.” Aiden said in a sleepy voice.
“Aww, go back to bed. Derrick’s at the hospital with Greg right now.”
“I should be there.” Aiden said and went to step back inside.
“You can go later, get some more sleep while you can.”
“Are you going to build that now?”
“No, not now. Tomorrow.” Ty said, “Conner’s coming in the morning to give me a hand with it.”
“Conner’s here?” Aiden asked partially wide eyed.
“Not right now, but he’s back in town.” Ty said raising an eyebrow.
“Oh, okay.” Aiden said and nodded.
“Hey,” Ty said and Aiden looked at him, “go back to bed for a while longer. You look beat.”
“What are you gonna do?” Aiden asked.
“I’m going back to check on a couple of jobs. I wanted to get this while I had time and before the lumberyard closed.” Ty said. Aiden nodded, “There’ll be a delivery in a little while of some other stuff too.”
“What other stuff?” Aiden asked.
“Stuff for something special, for all of us in the long run. You’ll like it. Get some more sleep before it gets here. Chances are they’ll make a lot of noise when they drop it in the driveway, might scare the shit out of you.” Ty said.
“Yeah…okay.” Aiden said sounding drained and exhausted. He went back inside the studio, closing the door. Ty smiled and shook his head. He went to the truck and climbed in.
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“So, I guess we’re right back into it, huh, you know without missing a beat?” Alec asked as he stirred the big pot of Marinara. Conner was standing right beside him at the stove in the kitchen of Lozano’s.
“Kind of.” Conner said as he watched Alec stirring everything into the sauce that had been added, “Ty needs my help I guess tomorrow.”
“I suppose you volunteered.” Alec said with a slight smile with a side glance.
“Yeah, I guess I did. But under the circumstances, I couldn’t turn them down. They’ve been awfully good to us, you know. And, they’re our friends.” Conner said.
“I’m not upset, babe.” Alec said as he looked at Conner, “You know how much I love them. I would never turn them down either. I just wish I could be there to help.”
“Well, how about this. You cook up a bunch of stuff, I’ll pick it up, then take it to the house. That way Derrick doesn’t have to cook while we’re all working. Then when you get off, you can come to the house and join in with everyone, even if it is late.”
“You want a bunch of take out?” Alec asked and looked surprised.
“Why not?” Conner asked as he looked at his love, “If you’re cooking it for everyone, it will be almost like you’re there in a way. Then, you’ll be there after work.”
“Okay.” Alec said as he finished stirring. He lowered the flame under the pot to let it simmer.
“Then, on Monday, we’re supposed to have dinner over there, kind of a dinner party, I guess. It was Derrick’s idea.” Conner said.
“Really? A dinner party? Did he say anything about a menu?” Alec asked and looked a little excited.
“Well, no, not to me. We didn’t get into it, but you know Derrick. I’m sure he’s got something in mind already.” Conner said.
“Yeah, so do I.” Alec said. He looked at Conner fully again, “Tell him I’ve got the appetizers figured out, and I’ll do them, plus the salads. Then tell him I suggest something light for the entrée. How many people?”
“Why don’t you call him.” Conner said, rolling his eyes, “You lost me at appetizer, babe.”
“Ugh.” Alec said hip bumping Conner, “Killin me.” He smiled at Conner and leaned closer to him, “I know, all you want to do is eat it, right?”
“You know me too well, babe.” Conner said with a smile and a flash of his eyes.
“Yeah, I’ll call him when I get a break here shortly.” Alec said, “Now, get out of my kitchen, I’ve got too many things to do. Go home and do some laundry, mister.”
“You’re the boss.” Conner said and looked at Carlito, who was smiling.
“You know I am.” Alec said and kissed his lover tenderly, “I’ve got to get ready for dinner service. I’ll call you later when to pick me up, probably around eleven after we clean.”
“Alright. I know when I’m not wanted.” Conner said. He turned to walk away, Alec slapped his tight butt in the faded jeans, Conner jumped a little.
“Don’t bruise it before you use it.” Conner said over his shoulder.
“Love you, babe.” Alec said.
“Love you, too. See ya, Carlito.” Conner said with a smile and went to the swinging doors that opened into the dining room. Carlito was still smiling at them, shaking his head now. Conner had walked out, Alec looked at Carlito.
“Those lasagna noodles about ready?” Alec asked. Carlito nodded.
“Just about, boss.”
“Good. Let’s get them rinsed and then make up some. I’d like to use extra mozzarella and set one aside for Emilio to taste.” Alec said as he stirred the sauce again. Carlito nodded. Alec flashed his eyes at the sauce.
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Dave Campbell pulled into the parking space of the strip mall across from the gym. He shut off the motor of his Mustang and stared at the front of the gym through his sunglasses. He could see all of the glass of the front of the gym. There were a few people moving about inside but toward the back of the gym it seemed. The glass and the daylight obscured what they looked like for the most part. He kept thinking to himself whether he should really be doing this or not. He absentmindedly started tapping a finger on the steering wheel.
A guy walked out of the gym. He was huge, really bulked up, wearing basketball shorts and a beater that was way too tight. ‘That can’t be him’, Campbell thought, ‘he’s not Latin.’ Campbell watched the huge guy get into a car that was too small for him. He smiled when he saw it, thinking ‘bear in a clown car.’ Two other guys walked out of the gym, another couple of huge muscle guys. They were talking to each other out on the front sidewalk. Campbell watched a lady coming toward them on the sidewalk, noticing that she was older but also that she was really checking them out, she was almost obvious about it, but not to them, looking over the top of her sunglasses. These guys didn’t pay any attention to her at all. She walked past by them and quit her obvious observations.
The two guys split apart from each other after fist bumping, then a slight hand wave. He watched what they each walked to, their own vehicles obviously, one a stylish sedan, the other a plain, simple gas saver economy car that was nice. They each got in and got ready to drive away.
“Yeah, why not.” Campbell said to himself out loud as he opened his car door, pulling his keys. He was looking at the windows still as he came across the parking lot and saw a guy wearing long compression type shorts, white, a black beater it looked like. That caught his eye, the contrast, also the tightness. The guy seemed rather slim, but almost pronounced in them, but daylight and window glare were not letting him get the best view. Campbell put his hand on the glass door and pushed it open, stepping in. He took off his sunglasses and looked around.
The smell is the first thing he noticed, that smell of air-conditioned sweat, almost a sock type odor, but it wasn’t overpowering as some gyms he’d been in before were. As he looked around, he quickly counted people that were in here, five in total, three guys working various machines at the back of the gym, the other two up front. He saw the long white compression shorts, one of the two, seeing only the rear of them. It was a guy for sure and Campbell liked what he saw, slender and tight, but he was with a woman, who was lying on the floor on a mat on her back, he was standing over her to one side, hands on his knees. Campbell could hear him talking to her and she was listening to what this guy was saying. She looked in Campbell’s direction once and then back at the guy above her, giving him some kind of signal obviously. The guy turned his head a little but wasn’t looking.
“I’ll be right with you.” The guy in the compression shorts said over his shoulder. Campbell heard him but didn’t acknowledge it, he went to his left, a long counter that was there, glass top and front that ran along the front windows of the gym. There were several things in it, exercise type bands and ropes, grips, small cushion grip weights. Campbell noticed bottles and tubs of products as well, nutritional supplements, bulking powders, weight loss. Typical things you might find for sale in a gym. Campbell knelt on his haunches, sunglasses dangled between his knees in two fingers of his left hand as he was reading the labels on some of the products, his head down slightly.
“Can I help you?” The voice was firm yet gentle above him. Campbell looked up and as he did, he noticed the pause as well as the look in the handsome tanned face behind the counter. Campbell rose to stand fully, taking him in all at once. He was toned, obviously, very, very defined, but not overly muscular. It was his face that caught Campbell’s full attention though, incredibly handsome, gorgeous even. Short sided hair, closely razor cut, slightly longer on the top, almost jet black and shiny being a bit gelled, tanned skin because of his obvious Latin descent, expressive deep brown eyes, a thin well-trimmed goatee, square jaw. Yeah, this was the guy.
“I don’t usually do this, but I think we have a mutual friend.” Campbell said smoothly.
“Ty Caldwell.” The gorgeous Latino guy said with sudden realization and wide eyes, “You’re the ho…I mean, the police officer he was telling me about.”
“David Campbell.” Campbell said with a slight smile, putting out his hand over the top of the glass counter.
“Rico Santiago.” He said as he took the hand firmly. They didn’t shake but just stared at one another for a long moment holding hands, “He certainly was right.” He said but mostly to himself.
“About what?” Campbell asked. Rico almost jerked himself back to reality in hearing him.
“Uh…that you were…” Rico said but couldn’t get it out, like he was out of breath. He blinked hard once still staring.
“I’m what?” Campbell asked with a slight smile. Rico swallowed hard then exhaled a bit and composed himself.
“That you live up to his description.” Rico recovered, then licked his lips with the tip of his tongue to be able to talk.
“I see.” Campbell said. He looked down at their hands and then back into those deep brown eyes, “You think I could have my hand back?” Campbell asked softly with a slight smile and Rico eased with a soft chuckle then a smile that was stunning to Campbell, all those white teeth. He let the hand go.
“Sorry.” Rico said and blushed even with his tanned color, it was visible. Campbell put his hands on the counter edge and slightly cocked his head.
“I wanted to come by and just introduce myself. I hate being blindsided in meeting people sometimes, you know what I mean?” Campbell asked.
“Yeah, I’m kind of the same way.” Rico said.
“He said that we were supposed to meet for dinner Monday night at their house. Were you going to go?”
“Well, I was having second thoughts on it. I’m sure you know how Ty can be, but I’m definitely going now, that is…if you’re going to be there.” Rico finished in a low voice. Campbell smiled and nodded.
“I guess so. I don’t usually socialize like that, but I think that might change after meeting you.” Campbell said suggestively.
“Good.” Rico said and smiled an incredible smile again that lit up his whole face. Campbell’s heart skipped a beat with it.
“I hope we can get to know each other better.” Campbell said.
“Oh…yeah, definitely.” Rico said and flashed his eyes.
“Great.” Campbell said, “As I said, I just wanted to stop by and meet you…before this thing on Monday.”
“I’m really glad you did.” Rico said exhaled heavily.
“Me too.” Campbell said, “I’ve got to go.”
“So do I.” Rico said and looked at the woman as she was done with her reps Rico had her do while he came to the counter. He looked back at Campbell, “It was nice to meet you, David.”
“Dave…to my friends.”
“Dave, right.” Rico said with a slight grimace as they slowly walked toward the end of the counter on opposite sides.
“It’s no problem…Rico. I like that by the way.” Campbell said as they reached the end of the counter. Campbell put out his hand again, Rico took it with both, clasping it firmly, “I’ll see you Monday.”
“For sure. I can’t wait.” Rico said. He slowly let go of the hand and watched the totally hot tight butted guy walk away and out the door. He could barely catch his breath, then swallowed hard.
“What’s next, Rico?” The female asked. Rico growled silently to himself at hearing her voice as he watched through the glass, the gorgeous guy walking away with the most perfect ass he’d ever seen.
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Greg had drifted off to sleep again as Derrick was sitting in the chair next to the bed going through his phone and checking emails. He heard someone come in and looked over his shoulder. It was one of the nurses. She smiled at him and he smiled back, giving her a nod. She looked at the IV, then her manly styled watch, noting the time, then looked at the hanging bag again. She looked down at Greg once. Derrick watched her leave that side of the bed, then she came around to come up beside Derrick. She smiled again and signaled to him to follow her out. He rose up out of the chair and went out into the hallway with her. She had a strange look on her face.
“Something wrong?” Derrick asked her quietly.
“I don’t usually say anything, but…are you his father?” She asked. Derrick smiled and shook his head.
“No, I’m his…guardian if you will.”
“I see.”
“Why do you ask?” Derrick asked.
“Well, the young man that has been here with him…”
“Aiden.” Derrick said. She nodded.
“He had said something about abuse.” She said quietly.
“I see.” Derrick said with understanding now, “And you thought that possibly…”
“It’s what we’re required to do, to watch out for.” She said and seemed apprehensive. Derrick looked at Greg for a moment, then back to her.
“Greg was abused at home, his parents’ home.” Derrick said softly, “He came to us through Aiden. We weren’t about to turn him away. I certainly would hate to see him on the streets.”
“Well, that’s a relief.” She said, “Aiden also said there was a police officer that was involved?”
“Yes, a police detective. He’s a friend of ours that is looking into it on Greg’s behalf. I also have my attorney working on it as well.” Derrick said.
“I hope you don’t misunderstand my asking.”
“No, not at all.” Derrick said and smiled briefly, “I’m actually glad that you did ask. It shows me concern as well as caring. I explained it to Dr. Monroe as well.”
“Most of the doctors will not say anything to the nursing staff if they’re told in private. We don’t usually find out until it’s put into the patients’ chart, if it ever is.”
“I would think that would be counterproductive.” Derrick said.
“And I agree wholeheartedly. But that’s hospital politics for you.” She said, “May I ask about the other man that was here?” Derrick smiled wide.
“My husband.” Derrick said with pride.
“Ah.” She said, “That makes sense. He seems like a nice guy.”
“He is. But he can get a little carried away sometimes.”
“I heard something about it from the ER. Word can travel fast around here, I’m sure you can understand that.” She said.
“Yeah, I’m sure it can.”
“Another thing I wanted to ask if you don’t mind, how are you going to be able to take care of him at home?” She asked side nodding toward Greg.
“Well, we haven’t figured it out completely yet, but between the three of us, Ty, Aiden, and myself, I’m sure we can figure it out and I have no doubt he’ll be well looked after and will never be alone.” Derrick said.
“Don’t think me too forward, but I can help out as well, if that would be alright?” She asked and Derrick was taken a little by surprise.
“You do home health care?” Derrick asked.
“Yes.” She said, “Outside of the hospital of course.”
“I think that goes without saying.” Derrick said, “But it also begs the question, why would you?”
“Let’s just say that I’m a soft touch deep down. I don’t really show it around here, but you guys have shown me something, and I have a funny feeling that Greg is a pretty special guy.” She said.
“I don’t know what to say.”
“Let me help you out with that.” She said as she looked up at Derrick, “He’s going to need help with a few things to begin with. Moving around will be very difficult for him at first, bathroom trips and so forth, getting dressed might even be a chore for him until he gets a little stronger, as well as getting used to what his body is doing throughout the healing process. I know the doctor made it sound rather easy, but that really won’t be the case for Greg.”
“You’ve seen this before.” Derrick said.
“Something very similar, yes. I assisted with that as well. It was a long journey for that man. I think Greg is in a little better shape than the patient I’m talking about, but you guys are going to have your hands full, believe me.”
“I think I’m starting to understand.” Derrick said and thought a moment, “I think we’d welcome your help.”
“I can give him four days a week, the other three I’m here at the hospital. I think also at the most, he’d need or, you gentlemen, would only need help with him for a couple of weeks at most, if he’s doing alright that is.” She said.
“Well it would help out a great deal for sure. We’re pretty flexible with our jobs, but this would definitely help out, and as you say, it wouldn’t be for that long. Do you think Greg’s comfortable with you?” Derrick asked. She smiled.
“I think so, but before you make a final decision about all of this, perhaps you should ask him if he is.”
“I certainly will.” Derrick said and smiled.
“I’ll give you my contact information before I go off shift this evening. If you want references or anything, I can certainly provide those for you.” She said.
“Thank you.” Derrick said. He looked at a still sleeping Greg.
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Conner rang the doorbell and waited. He looked around the large grand entry of the house. He hated it here, this house. The door opened and there was a slight gasp.
“Conner.”
“Hi, Phoebe. How are you?” He asked and smiled slightly.
“I’m fine.” She said.
“Good. Is my father home?” Conner asked. She opened the door wider for him.
“Yes. He’s in the dining room having a late lunch.” She said, “Please, come in.”
“Thank you.” He said and stepped inside. She closed the door behind him.
“I’ll tell him you’re here.” Phoebe said, “May I get you something?”
“No, thank you. I won’t be here long. And you don’t have to tell him, I think I know the way.” Conner said in a business-like way.
“Alright.” She said softly. She watched him walk away and out of sight. Conner went down the hallway, turned right and went into the large dining room. The elder Van Owen sat at the head of the long table and looked up as Conner walked in.
“Well.” He said in his deep voice, “I wasn’t expecting you, Conner.”
“I’m sorry to disturb you.” Conner said, “I was wondering if we could have a little talk?”
“You’re not disturbing me, Conner. This is your home, too.” The older man said. Conner feigned a smile.
“This was never home to me, Dad, I think you know that.” Conner said.
“Have a seat.” The older man said ignoring what Conner said, holding out a hand indicating a chair to his right, “Would you like something? Iced tea or coffee?”
“No, thank you.” Conner said as he came to the table. He pulled the chair out and sat down.
“What did you want to talk about?”
“First, I wanted to say thank you to you face to face for the villa. It was very thoughtful. Alec was completely overwhelmed by what you did for us.” Conner said, “It was hard for him to leave there.” The older man tried to smile, but couldn’t.
“I always found it very hard to leave there myself. Of all the homes that we have or have had over the years, that was always my favorite. I think I can understand how he feels.” The older man said.
“Julienne was very sad also. She never said anything, but I could see it in her eyes when we left.”
“I spoke with her day before yesterday in fact. She told me that she and Alec had grown rather close.” The older man said.
“Yes, they have.” Conner said.
“What else was on your mind, Conner?”
“Second, I was wondering about the board meeting on Monday. I wanted to be prepared for it and was wondering if you could possibly give me a little bit of a heads up about it.” Conner said.
“It’s nothing to worry about.” The older man said and sat back in his arm chair, “You have been to one before.”
“Yes, I have. However, as an under-member of the board, it didn’t really concern me other than giving statistics of the division when I was asked to the table finally.” Conner said.
“So, what is your concern now?”
“As a full-time member of the board, am I to act differently, have more of an input?” Conner asked.
“Yes…and no. Yes, to having more of an input as you call it, but no to acting differently. I want you to be who you are, Conner. That’s why I need you there. You have a passion for business, I’ve seen it, I’ve heard it as well in some of our phone conversations. You act that way, the way that you are, I have no doubt you’ll gain respect, and as well, possibly put a little bit of fear into some of the older members that will be present. That’s what I’m counting on actually.” The older man said. Conner smiled and shook his head a bit.
“You’re using me.”
“Not at all.” The older man said and narrowed his eyes, “I’m getting you ready.”
“Ready for what?”
“For taking over…to replace me.” The older man said.
“You’re not retiring?”
“No.” The older man said and his expression changed, one Conner had never seen before on him, “I’m sure you remember about my heart. The condition is steadily growing worse. I have named you as my successor when the time comes, I have told you that before. I will not have the board gain control over everything I have worked so hard for all these years. This is why I need you there, Conner, so control stays within the family.”
“And here I thought it was a ploy, a tactic.”
“No, it is true about my condition. Your mother was using it that way, I won’t deny that. And I suppose for the most part, I let her. But what I told you at your hotel that night before you left on your trip was true, is true. I’m on borrowed time, Conner. If you wish to see the medical records, I have them in the study.” The older man said. His voice had lowered from its usual booming tone.
“No. I’ll take your word for it, Dad.” Conner said softly. The older man looked at him carefully as if he was evaluating him somehow, some way.
“All of this could have been done over the phone, Conner. Not that I mind you coming all the way out here, but why? What’s the real reason you’re here?”
“I don’t really know.” Conner said as he looked at the older man, “You’re right, I could have called you. I just wanted to see you, I guess.” Once again, the older man tried to smile, and that look was there again on his face, something new to Conner.
“I’m not about to get emotional or anything like that with you, Conner, you know I’m not that type of a man.” The older man, “I know I was never the ideal father to you. You, being an only child, I’m sure it was very difficult for you. I’m also sure that some of the decisions we made regarding you were not the best. I’m not going to apologize for that however, Conner, because there’s nothing I can do about it now, it’s done.”
“I was angry for a lot of years, Dad.” Conner said softly, “I’m not angry anymore, not at you, not at her. And you’re right, it’s done, all in the past. I survived.” Conner leaned on the glowing beautiful table, looking his father directly in the eyes, “But you said something to me the other day on the phone and it struck me. You told me you were proud of me. And that was the first time I’ve ever heard you say that since I was little. Was it true?”
“You may not believe me, Conner, with all that has happened between us over the years, but I’ve always been proud of you. You’ve been alone so much of your life, Conner. It has given you an inner strength, an air if you will, and you’ve always had an inner pride that is also remarkable. You excelled above my expectations for certain, and with your compassion, your caring for others, it makes you even more remarkable. It makes that pride I feel for you come out even more.” The elder man spoke softly as he looked directly at Conner.
“Why didn’t you ever tell me this? All I ever wanted was just to be told something like that.” Conner said still speaking softly.
“As I said, I’m not an ideal father.” The older man said, “It goes back to my own father I suppose. He always thought that emotion was for the weak. I also suppose that I learned from his example, and that’s not to make excuses, that’s just the reality of it. Quite simply I didn’t know how to show or voice that pride I have for you.”
“But he…”
“He did love you, Conner. It was one of the only times that I saw him show any emotion at all was when he was with you. His habit was to give monetary compensation as a way to make up for it, for his lack of emotion. Hence your trust and the way it reads. That’s why I did what I did for you in regards to that.” The older man said. Conner shook his head at him.
“Don’t you see that that is so very wrong, Dad?” Conner asked.
“Yes, I do.” The older man, “There are a great many things that I would have liked to have changed about us, but I can’t, as I said, because it’s done. All we can do now is move forward from here, Conner, and make it as positive as possible between us with the time remaining, if you’re willing.”
“If you’re serious.” Conner said.
“Of course I am.” The older man said in a softer tone.
“I think I’d like that.” Conner said.
“Good.”
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“Hello?” Ty asked as he drove along going to check on one of the projects before returning to the hospital. The speakers of the truck carried the voice.
“You are not going to believe who was here.”
“Uh…let me guess.” Ty said recognizing the voice as he pulled up to a red light.
“Yeah…and you didn’t say enough about him either.” Rico said.
“So, I guess you like him.” Ty said with a smirk.
“I don’t know whether to thank you or scream at you.” Rico said.
“I told you he was hot.” Ty said. The light turned green, Ty stepped on the gas pedal.
“Yeah, hot doesn’t cover it, he’s way more than that.”
“So, I guess Monday is a go for sure for you?”
“Yeah…oh yeah.” Rico said, “I mean where do guys like that hide?”
“Well, I don’t think he’s hiding, Ri. Did he just drop by the gym or something?”
“Yeah, he came by and said he wanted to just meet me before Monday. He said he didn’t want to be caught off guard or something like that.”
“Ah, sounds like recon to me.” Ty chuckled, “What else did he say?”
“I don’t remember much else actually. I couldn’t take my eyes off him.”
“Wow, okay. Sounds like you’ve got it bad all of a sudden.”
“The dude is way more than hot, he’s…breathtaking.”
“I think you’re just horny.” Ty said and chuckled.
“You’re an asshole, you know that?”
“Now how am I an asshole?” Ty asked as he drove along into the neighborhoods, getting closer to his destination.
“I guess you’re not. I mean, if you were trying to set me with this really hot guy.”
“Yeah, you’re welcome.” Ty said slowly and smirked again, “I’ll text you the time after I talk to Derrick later.”
“Yeah, okay. I really just wanted to call and say thanks I guess.”
“Yeah, and I guess you’re welcome.” Ty said pulling up to this project, “Listen, I just pulled up to this thing I have to take care of, so go and sweat over someone or something.”
“There you go again.” Rico said through the speakers of the truck. Ty chuckled, “Alright, text me later, muscle boy.” Rico said with a sigh.
“Yeah I will, bye.” Ty said and pushed the button ending the call.
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Aiden walked into the hospital room. He had seen Derrick sitting in the chair beside the bed, Greg sleeping, and he smiled at seeing Greg. Aiden walked up beside Derrick, who looked up at him, and smiled himself.
“I thought you were going to sleep for a while longer.” Derrick said above a whisper.
“I should be here, not sleeping.” Aiden said in the same tone, “How is he?”
“He’s fine.” Derrick said and got to his feet, “Let’s step outside a second, I need to talk to you.” Derrick led Aiden out into the hallway. Aiden looked at him, “First, how much sleep did you get?”
“Enough I guess.” Aiden said.
“Yeah, I get it.” Derrick said with a smirk, “Second, I made that phone call finally this morning.”
“What phone call?” Aiden asked and then it dawned on him, “Croft Manufacturing?” Aiden asked and Derrick nodded with a slight smile now.
“I told you that I know Stanley Croft.” Derrick said, “He’s a really nice guy, always has been. I asked him about a private tour for you and he said it was no problem. He suggested late next week because he has several things going on right now. While we were talking, he started telling me about something that I found very interesting and I think you might be interested as well.”
“What’s that?” Aiden asked and looked like he was going to explode with excitement.
“He has an intern program like I do at the firm.” Derrick said, “He takes students and gives them practical aptitude with work experience, in return it helps them with their degrees for engineering. Most of them have come back to work for him after graduating from what he said.”
“You mean he wants to give me a job or something?” Aiden asked and he wanted to scream.
“Possibly.” Derrick said, “But the really cool thing is, he has a scholarship program for college to be able to get your degree. He was telling me all about it, and I think it’s pretty amazing. I told him a little bit about you and he was very interested in meeting you. I’ll give you his number and you can call him and set it up an appointment with him for next week.”
“Are you serious?” Aiden asked. Derrick thought Aiden’s eyes were going to pop out of his head, Derrick nodded.
“Very.”
“That’s my dream.” Aiden said, “I don’t know what to say.”
“Well, I’ll write down the number for you when I get back to the office, you can give him a call on Monday, and see what he says.”
“That is so cool.” Aiden said and stepped into Derrick, hugging him tighter than tight, “Thank you.” Derrick hugged him in return, patting his back.
“It’s no trouble at all, bud. I’m just sorry I didn’t do it sooner for you.” Derrick said and Aiden pulled back from him. Derrick could feel Aiden was trembling with pure excitement.
“No, it’s okay, really it is. I just can’t believe this.”
“Nothing is carved in stone, so it’s just a first step, okay?” Derrick said with a smile.
“Yeah, but what a step. I mean, he wants to meet me, Stanley Croft.” Aiden said, “He’s like a pioneer in what he does.”
“I didn’t know that.” Derrick said, losing the smile.
“Everybody talks about him in robotics. He’s really intelligent and knows how to do things that other manufacturers have trouble with.” Aiden said.
“I didn’t know that either.” Derrick said, “Then this might be a really good thing for you, who knows.” Derrick could see Aiden was thinking, running all kinds of things through his mind all at once, “Guess you’re really excited about it, huh?”
“This is amazing. But what if he doesn’t like me?” Aiden said and looked anxious now.
“I’m sure he will, bud. You’re an amazing guy. I know he’ll see that right away. Don’t start getting uptight about it or go into a panic mode over it.” Derrick said in a calming voice, putting a hand on Aiden’s shoulder, “I wanted to talk to you about it when it was quiet and just us.”
“Yeah, okay.” Aiden said calming down a bit.
“Are you going to sit with him for a while then?” Derrick asked. Aiden nodded, “Okay. I’m going back to the office and see what’s going on there. Then I’ll go to the house. Ty should be back here when he finishes up.”
“Yeah, he dropped stuff off at the house already.” Aiden said.
“Good.” Derrick said, “I’ll make something for dinner. You come home when visiting hours are over, okay?”
“But what about Greg?” Aiden asked, focusing totally on Greg now.
“I’ll think he’ll be alright for one night here with the nurses. Besides, they’re going to release him tomorrow, remember?”
“Yeah, after they cast him.” Aiden said.
“Exactly.” Derrick said, “You may need a good night’s sleep tonight. Then the fun will really start when we get him home.” He smiled and flashed his eyes.
“Okay.” Aiden said and nodded. Derrick pat Aiden’s upper arm with a hand.
“Alright, see you later.” Derrick said and walked away toward the elevators. Aiden went in and took up his usual place, sitting in the chair, putting his hand through the rail and resting it on Greg’s while he slept.
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Ty walked in the back door of Beckett Builders carrying his clipboard. He went to the front area, passing Sam’s office, not looking in, and went to the desk he was supposed to use out front. Mike Pershing was sitting there at it, using the computer.
“Having second thoughts about retiring?” Ty asked softly. Mike rolled his eyes as he looked at Ty.
“You out of your fucking mind? I can’t wait. There’s a beach in Mexico with my name on it.” Mike said softly as well, “How’s the kid?”
“He was doing fine when I left him earlier. I’m going to go back in a bit. They’re supposed to release him tomorrow.”
“That’s good, right?” Mike asked.
“Yeah, it is, I guess. They’re going to put him in a partial body cast. We got a wheelchair for him. I’m going to build a ramp to get him in and out of the house tomorrow.”
“You need a hand with it?”
“Nah, I’ve got tons of help already lined up, but thanks for the offer.” Ty said as he set his clipboard down on the desk.
“What are you doing here?” Mike asked.
“I guess I need to put this stuff into the computer from what Annie said, these progress reports for the jobs. I guess I’m behind already.” Ty said.
“Yeah, that was my favorite part of the job.” Mike said with heavy sarcasm and an eye roll, “She was always on my ass about that because I never really did it either.”
“Hmm, I can see why, computers and I never really get along.” Ty said, “Do you know how to do this?”
“Yeah, let me show you.” Mike said and turned in the chair. He brought up the computer program they used inhouse. Ty watched him peck at the keyboard, then used the mouse, “You have to bring up the specific job first…” He clicked on one, “then you go to notes here…” He said slowly, then clicked on what he needed, the screen opened a window, “then you have to put in any additional materials ordered or used…” Mike said and looked up at Ty, “anything new added?”
“No, not that they told me.” Ty said.
“Okay. You got to make sure you ask them when you’re on site because sometimes the guys forget to say anything. If they do add something, make sure you get the receipts or tags from them to turn in to go with the job paperwork.” Mike said and looked at the screen again. He moved the mouse around and found what he needed.
“You have to do this all the time?” Ty asked.
“Yeah, for each and every job. It’s supposed to be daily and is a real pain.” Mike said.
“There’s got to be an easier way. I’m a fuckin nail banger, not a typist.” Ty said over Mike’s shoulder.
“That’s why I said you needed a secretary.” The deep voice said beside Ty. He looked up, Sam Beckett was standing there, “I need to talk to you guys for a minute.” He said and nodded his head to one side, then turned. Ty looked at Mike, who looked at Ty. They both followed Sam into his office. He sat down behind his desk. Mike closed the door behind them.
“What’s up?” Mike asked. Sam looked at Ty, who crossed his big arms over his big chest.
“A few things.” Sam said, “First, how’s Greg?”
“Better.” Ty said.
“Good.” Sam said then waited a moment like he wanted more but Ty was quiet about it, “Yeah, alright. Next, I’ve been dealing with the project downtown. I’ve talked to my lawyer and the owners of the building. I wanted to let you both know where we stand.” Sam said and opened a file on his desk, he pulled out the structural engineers report, turned it, and slid it across the desk, “It comes as no surprise, he recommends it be torn down. The owners will have a copy of this as well. They say they’re going to sue for breach of contract.”
“And?” Ty asked.
“I told them to go ahead and try. My lawyer said that they don’t have a chance in winning but it will damage our reputation for sure.” Sam said with a glare.
“Bullshit.” Ty said. Sam narrowed his eyes at him.
“What do you mean?” Sam asked.
“Who are these guys anyway?” Ty asked.
“A local corporation.” Sam said.
“Who?” Ty asked cocking his head a little.
“JBL Corporation.” Sam said, “Owned by a guy named Van Owen.” Ty busted out laughing and clapped his hands once loudly, “What’s so fuckin funny?” Sam asked. Ty slowly stopped laughing.
“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” Ty said.
“Try me.” Sam said. Ty pulled out his phone from his back pocket. He opened it and went to contacts. He pushed the one he wanted and put it to his ear.
“Hey, cheeseball, what are you doin?” Ty asked and listened, “Laundry? I thought you had a maid or something…? No, you dick, I don’t mean Alec.” Ty said and then chuckled once, “Hey, I got a little problem. You too busy to come down here for a few minutes?” Ty asked and listened, “Beckett Builders, you know the place?” Ty asked and listened again, “Yeah, that’s it. No, it has to do with a possible lawsuit. I just want your opinion, Mr. Executive. Yeah, alright, see you in a bit. Thanks.” Ty ended the call.
“What was that all about?” Sam asked.
“It’s about who you know.” Ty said as he put his phone back in his pocket, “I’ll introduce you when he gets here in about fifteen minutes. I’m about to save your ass.”
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“Hey, boss. Everything alright?” Terry asked as Derrick walked in the door of his firm. Derrick smiled at Terry and Kim, sitting at her desk.
“It’s getting there. How are things here?” Derrick asked.
“Good.” Terry said, “Claire needs to see you about a few things before we close.”
“Great, more money.” Derrick groaned.
“There’s a few messages for you as well.” Kim said as she handed up the slips of paper. Derrick took them and went through them.
“Did Sid say what he wanted?” Derrick asked as he saw the one.
“No, he didn’t, but he did say it was important but not urgent.” Kim said. Derrick only pursed his lips a bit. He read another one.
“Adam Ralston. He’s from the building department. Did he say anything?” Derrick asked Kim.
“Just that it was a personal matter and that he would call back.” Kim said.
“Okay, thanks.” Derrick said and smiled at her, “I guess I’ll go see Claire and sign my life away.” Terry smiled at him. Derrick looked at him as he started walking toward the back.
“We got that list done for the projects.” Terry said as he walked along with Derrick, “Do you want it now?”
“No, we can wait till Monday.” Derrick said, “Good job on that by the way, bud.”
“Thanks. Neil was pretty thorough with it.” Terry said as they reached Terry’s office door.
“So, you guys are good then?” Derrick asked.
“Yeah, but I’m still going to kick his butt for not talking to me, but not here, so don’t worry.” Terry said. Derrick chuckled and shook his head. He walked away to go see his payables lady.
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Conner walked in the front door of Beckett Builders. The three girls there at the desks looked up, Annie Beckett was one of them. The looks from them were long and a bit wide eyed taking Conner all in. Conner smiled that million-dollar smile of his at all of them.
“Hi.” He said, looking at Annie, “I’m looking for Ty Caldwell.”
“Yeah, hold on a second.” Annie said and picked up the phone, “There’s someone here to see Ty.” She said and then hung up the phone. Ty walked into the front of the office out of a hallway and Conner smiled wider and went toward him, Ty put out his arms and they hugged tight, Conner kissing Ty’s cheek. All eyes of the girls were on the both of them.
“Thanks for coming.” Ty said.
“No problem.” Conner said as he pulled back. Mike Pershing was there as well.
“Conner, this is Mike, Mike, Conner.” Ty said. Conner reached out a hand and took it, giving it a firm shake.
“Hey there.” Mike said.
“How do you do?” Conner asked, taking his hand back, “So, what’s going on?” Conner asked Ty.
“Need your opinion on something.” Ty said, “It involves your company, and I don’t want to put you in a bad spot. So this is just between us…as friends.”
“Okay.” Conner said with a raised eyebrow, “Is it bad?”
“I’ll let you be the judge of it. Come with us.” Ty said and led the way, Mike and Conner followed, going into Sam’s office, “Conner, this is Sam Beckett, the owner here.”
“How do you do?” Conner said, putting out his hand. Sam took it and gave a firm grip with his bear paw.
“Doing well, I think.” Sam said. Ty raised an eyebrow.
“Sam, this is Conner…Conner Van Owen.” Ty said slowly to let it sink in.
“Are you serious?” Sam asked with a shocked look.
“Very.” Ty said, “I’ve asked him here for his opinion only, not to take any action or to give any kind of decision. Show him the contract and everything else you’ve got.”
“Alright.” Sam said quietly.
“What’s this all about?” Conner asked.
“Read it first.” Ty said. Conner was handed the folder. Conner opened it and started to go through the various documents, proposal, bid, contract, then the accident report. Conner stopped and looked at Ty.
“Is this where the…” Conner started to ask and Ty nodded.
“Keep reading.” Ty said gently. Conner went back to it, then looked at the structural engineer’s report and its recommendation. He looked at Sam, then Ty.
“You want my opinion on this because there’s going to be a lawsuit…from JBL.”
“Like I said, I’m not trying to put you in a bad spot.” Ty said.
“And you’re not.” Conner said. He closed the file and handed it back to Sam, “It’s standard procedure with the company, Mr. Beckett. Anytime there is a change or an occurrence that might be deemed as breach of contract from a contractor, any outside contractor, our legal department steps in and will file suit automatically. It’s that way with all departments of the company for any type of outside contractor.”
“So, what happens now?” Sam asked.
“Well, I’m not a lawyer, but I’m just saying what happens.” Conner said, “I will look into this for you however, as a favor to Ty. I can see why you would be concerned. I mean two of your workers have already been injured because of the unsoundness of the building, and I can see where you would want to get away from the project, if that’s what you’re intending, especially after reading the structural report. The company will probably ask for a second opinion in that just to confirm the findings of the first, I’m sure you understand.”
“Yeah, I would like to get out of it. How would you know?” Sam asked.
“Because I run the real estate division for the company, Mr. Beckett.” Conner said, “I’m sure that’s why Ty asked for my opinion.”
“I didn’t know that.” Sam said.
“Well now you do.” Ty said with a raised eyebrow.
“They didn’t ask me for the second report though.” Sam said.
“I would take the initiative and get it, and soon.” Conner said, “These lawyers for the company are sharp, don’t give them any reason to not let you walk away from this. That’s my advice.”
“I’ll do that, thank you.”
“And just between us, if they do file suit, and you have done everything you can to show them and the company that this is a loss for everyone involved, take it to the media.” Conner said, “But I didn’t say that, officially or unofficially.”
“I hear you.” Sam said.
“My father can be very ruthless when it comes to business, Mr. Beckett. But I think this time, I have a little bit of an edge and can help you.” Conner said.
“How?”
“Two things.” Conner said, “One, this man standing right here.” Conner nodded his head toward Ty, “My father has the utmost respect for Ty. Two, he’ll listen to me. Once he reads all of your documentation, it’ll help to change his mind. Get that other report before they ask for it.”
“I will, right now.” Sam said and put out his hand. Conner took it, “Thank you.” Sam said softly.
“Don’t mention it.” Conner said, “And I mean, don’t mention it.”
“I get it.” Sam said. Conner looked at Ty and flashed his eyes. They walked out of the office together as Sam was dialing the phone to get another structural engineer. Ty led Conner out the front door and out onto the front sidewalk.
“Holy shit.” Conner said, “Thanks for giving me more of a heads up, buddy. I’m back in town one day and you drop a bombshell on me.”
“I told you I didn’t want to get you into trouble over this, I’m sorry if I have.” Ty said, “But he’s about ready to fall apart and I’m just trying to hold it all together here. This accident has really rattled him, rattled him pretty bad. He was about ready to close his business down because of it.”
“Are you serious?” Conner asked. Ty nodded, “I’ve heard he’s got a good reputation as a builder. Is that why you’re working for him?”
“Yeah, that and he made me an offer that was just too good to pass up. Like I said, I’m just trying to hold it together here.” Ty said.
“Alright. I’ll do what I can, I promise.” Conner said, “We still on for tomorrow?”
“Yeah, if you’re good with it.” Ty said.
“Yeah. What time?”
“Around eight alright?” Ty asked.
“Sure. I just hope there’s coffee.” Conner said and smiled with a nod. They hugged each other tight. Ty smiled.
“There always is, you know that.” Ty said.
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“How many more vultures?” Derrick asked as he signed another check.
“Four more.” Claire said in that motherly voice of hers as she took the signed check from Derrick, handing him another to sign. Derrick groaned softly, it was their little game with each other.
“And I always ask this as I’m signing checks, how are receivables?” Derrick asked.
“Beckett is caught up finally after that little snafu with them.” She said, “There’s only one hold out but it should be here by early next week.”
“Who’s that?” Derrick as she handed him another check to sign.
“A private party. Terry gave it over to me a little over a week ago to bill out, something Neil was working on.” Claire said as she handed the last check over, “But on the whole, for once, we have more coming in rather than going out. So, this shouldn’t have been too painful for you.” She took the last check from him, “I’ll get these out in the mail today.”
“Glad to hear we’re on the plus side for once.” Derrick said and sighed. She gave him a raised eyebrow, “What about payroll?” Derrick asked.
“I input everything already for next week.” She said and opened the payroll program on her computer, Derrick looked at it carefully seeing only one thing. He pointed at it.
“Start that as of today, not Monday, please?” Derrick asked.
“Do you think Neil’s ready for that kind of responsibility?” She asked softly as she changed it in the program.
“Yeah, I do.” Derrick said. He always appreciated Claire’s input. She never stepped out of bounds with it and he respected her opinion greatly. She saved the change to the program and logged out of it to protect it, “Need anything else?” He asked her. She turned and looked up at him.
“As a matter of fact, yes.” She said. He cocked his head slightly as she never asked for anything, “It’s our wedding anniversary today. I was wondering if I could skip out of here early.” He was wide eyed.
“Of course you can. What are you still doing here?” He asked her.
“Trying to do my job.” She said with a serious tone. Derrick rolled his eyes.
“Congratulations on your anniversary. Do you have plans?” Derrick asked.
“It’s our fortieth, so I’m sure he wants to take me out to dinner or something. If he makes me cook…” She said with an almost growl.
“Well then, as an anniversary gift, allow me.” Derrick said. He picked up the phone on her desk and dialed, “What time is dinner usually?”
“Probably around six. What are you doing?” She asked as Derrick looked at her.
“Emilio?” Derrick asked into the phone, “How are things there, old friend?” Derrick listened for a minute, “Good, I’m glad he’s there. I need to make a reservation for a very special couple, it’s their anniversary. I want the best in the house for them. Give them my table if you would, and their cheque goes on my tab, alright? Anything they want, sky’s the limit, probably a bottle of the ’96 also.” Derrick said never taking his eyes off her. She had a shocked look on her face, “Reservation is for six this evening. Tell Alec I said it’s very special. Thank you, old friend.” Derrick said, “Yes, I’ll talk to you soon, alright, ciao.” He hung up the phone.
“What are you doing?” She asked.
“Taking care of someone that is very special to me. Breathe a word of this and I’ll deny it all.” Derrick said with bugged eyes and a smile, “Do you know Lozano’s?”
“Yes, we’ve been there before.” She said.
“Good, happy anniversary.” Derrick said and winked.
“You shouldn’t be doing things like this, young man.” She said in her stern motherly tone.
“It’s only one night a year and it’s your special day, and besides it’s no big deal. Now, go home, collect your husband, and go and have a wonderful evening. I’ll mail those out for you, just leave them on your desk.”
“I don’t know what to say.”
“I do and let’s just let it go.” Derrick said with a smirk, “Next time, say something beforehand when you need some time. And believe me, I will write this on my calendar and I will be prepared next year for your anniversary.” He said, she stood up, “Now go.” He said above a whisper and kissed her cheek. She gave him a hug, which was rare. Derrick smiled.
“I still don’t like the beard.” She said and Derrick chuckled, “Oh, and I’m preparing the financials to go to the accountant next week for the quarterlies. Does Tom need to see them before they’re sent?”
“No, I don’t think so. We can review them without him when you’re done, then send them off. I think he’s a little preoccupied anyway with the new baby. I can tell him afterwards.” Derrick said.
“Alright.” She said. She began to gather her things and set them aside, then started to finish up her tasks quickly. Derrick walked away from her with a slight smile.
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Ty was walking toward the back door of Beckett Builders. He had almost reached it when he heard his name called. He turned and saw the big man coming toward him, looking a little apprehensive. Ty cocked his head slightly.
“Can I talk to you a minute?” Sam asked.
“Yeah.” Ty said.
“I don’t want to hold you up too long. You’re going to the hospital, right?”
“Yeah.” Ty said.
“Let’s go outside a minute.” Sam said. Ty pushed open the door and went out into the back parking lot, “I, uh, I’m not very good at this.” Sam said, looking down at the concrete, “I wanted to say thank you for calling in your friend like that.” Sam lifted his head and looked at Ty.
“No problem.” Ty said.
“Why’d you do it?” Sam asked.
“Let’s just say I have an interest in seeing you succeed.” Ty said.
“What do you mean by that?” Sam asked carefully.
“What I mean is…you came looking for me to come work for you. I did. I’ve let my own business slide, not that I had anything lined up immediately, but it never takes me long to get something, never has.” Ty said as he squared off with the big man, “So here I am, locked in with you, and then this fuckin disaster hits. It occurs to me, Sam, that pretty soon it’s just going to be you and me. Mike will be gone at the end of next week, fishing on a beach in Mexico, and you’re stuck with me. Now, I can give you my total loyalty, because that’s another thing that you hired when you hired me. All I want from you is to know that you’ll be loyal to me, to me and all the others that work for you, Sam, for you to stick with it, good or bad. Can you do that?”
“Yeah…yeah, I can.” Sam said.
“Good, you’d better.” Ty said, “I’ll see you Monday at some point. I’m moving some of the crews around at some of the jobs so I’m going to be busy most of the day. Two jobs are near completion and I want punch lists made. You’d better get on it and find something else for these guys pretty damn quick.”
“I’ll confirm a few things on Monday. We can get together on Tuesday and I can go over a few things with you then.”
“Yeah, sounds fine.” Ty said. Sam slowly put out his hand. Ty looked at the big bear paw and took it giving it a firm grip.
“You’ve done a lot for me and for this company. I won’t forget it.”
“See that you don’t.” Ty said flatly and took his hand back. He turned and went to the truck and climbed in, starting it. He pulled out as Sam just watched from where they had stood.
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Aiden sat next to Greg’s bed in the hospital room. He kept looking at Greg and smiling at him. Greg looked so much better for some reason. He had more color to him and seemed to be breathing easier which was a relief to Aiden but he didn’t say anything about it to Greg.
“How is this going to work at the house?” Greg asked in a whisper.
“I’m not sure yet.” Aiden said, “I think maybe that you can take the bed though. I’ll go get some more pillows so you can get propped up a bit more. We’ve only got the two there now you know.”
“Don’t go to any trouble for me.” Greg whispered.
“I’m not, don’t worry. It’ll be fine, tough guy. Probably should get a fan too. You might be hot in that cast they want to put you in. I broke my arm once and had it casted. It was during the summer and it was warm like it is now. I was miserable.” Aiden said, “Got all itchy and everything in it.”
“You shouldn’t spend money on me.” Greg whispered.
“I might as well. I don’t spend money on myself, might as well spend some on you. It’s no big deal.” Aiden said. Greg shook his head slightly, “Once you’re better and are back to work, things will be different. Don’t you think?”
“Yeah, I guess.” Greg whispered. Aiden was reading what was going through Greg’s mind.
“Look, what we need to do is just concentrate on getting you better. Don’t worry about anything else right now, it’ll all work out, you’ll see.” Aiden said gently with a smile. Greg just looked at him and had a sad look on his face.
“I made a mess of things by getting hurt.”
“You did something that was very brave. I don’t think I would have done it or been able to.” Aiden was leaning toward the bed from the chair, “Makes me love you even more.”
“It was stupid.” Greg whispered.
“I don’t think that other guy sees it that way. He’s probably really grateful with what you did.” Aiden said.
“You’re not mad?” Greg whispered.
“How could I be mad at you?” Aiden asked, “Look, the important thing is that you’re going to be okay.”
“I guess.” Greg whispered. Aiden thought that he needed to change the subject seeing the look on Greg’s face.
“Derrick wants me to come home when visiting hours are over.” Aiden said, “He says I need a full night’s sleep before they let you out of here tomorrow.”
“You do need to sleep.” Greg whispered.
“But I don’t want to leave you either.” Aiden said.
“It’s just one night.” Greg whispered, smiling out of the corner of his mouth, “I’ll live.”
“Oh.” Aiden said and looked like he was hurt. He clutched his chest with one hand, “He doesn’t want me.” Aiden said painfully.
“I didn’t say that, goof.” Greg whispered, then shook his head, “So dramatic.”
“Well, he did give me some good news.” Aiden said and Greg gave him a questioning look, “There’s this place outside of the city. We went there for our science class. Do you remember it?”
“That factory?” Greg asked. Aiden nodded and smiled really big, “What about it?”
“The guy that owns and runs it wants to talk to me, maybe give me a job. He’s also got a scholarship program for college.” Aiden said. Greg could see the excitement in his face.
“How does Derrick know him?” Greg asked in a whisper.
“I guess he did the whatever for his office building or something. You know it’s my dream to work in robotics, right?” Aiden asked and Greg nodded with a smile.
“I think that’s great.” Greg whispered, “You deserve it.” Greg looked up as there was a knock on the open door.
“Knock, knock.” The pleasant sounding voice said. Aiden looked over his shoulder then turned in his chair to look. The young man stepped into the room and was wearing scrubs. Aiden recognized him from this morning when he had breakfast in the cafeteria, “Hi, I’m Dr. Prentice.” Aiden got out of his chair and stood beside the bed. The young man came to the foot of the bed and put his hands on the footboard. He looked at Greg, “You look pretty good. Better than the last time I saw you.”
“Hi there.” Aiden said. The eyes of the young man shifted to Aiden and gave Aiden a nod.
“How are you doing?” Prentice asked.
“Doing okay.” Aiden said.
“You look a little better than you did this morning. Get some sleep?”
“A little.” Aiden said.
“Good.” Prentice said and looked at Greg, “I assisted Dr. Monroe with your surgery. How are you feeling?”
“Okay. Just tired.” Greg said.
“I bet.” Prentice said, “You should sleep as much as you can, it’ll help with your healing. I understand you’re going to be released tomorrow.” Prentice said and Greg nodded.
“They’re gonna put him in a cast in the morning.” Aiden said.
“Yeah, that’ll be stylish.” Prentice smiled, “But it will help. I hope I didn’t interrupt you guys with your conversation.”
“No.” Greg whispered.
“We were talking about my dream job.” Aiden said.
“Oh? What’s that?” Prentice asked.
“It’s in robotics.” Aiden said.
“Wow, that’s cool.” Prentice said then looked at Greg, “What’s your dream job?”
“I want to play baseball in the majors.” Greg whispered.
“You play now?” Prentice asked. Greg nodded, “Any good?” Greg rolled his eyes.
“They say he’s the best pitcher they’ve seen at our school in years.” Aiden said proudly, “He’s got a fast ball no one can hit.”
“Awesome.” Prentice said and was watching Greg the whole time, seeing the doubt on his face, “You’re not thinking because of what you went through that it’s going to affect it, are you?”
“Are you?” Aiden asked as he looked down at Greg. Greg’s eyes welled and he nodded.
“Let me kind of set something right for you.” Prentice said as he came around and sat on the foot of the bed next to Greg’s foot, “When things like this happen, sometimes it’s for the best.” Prentice said, “Dr. Monroe might agree with me on this too. I’m sure he’s seen it a few times, I know I have.”
“What?” Greg asked.
“When you heal up from a massive trauma like this, sometimes it just makes things better. Makes things a little tougher, a little stronger on the inside.” Prentice said then smiled, “I’ll tell you a little story. I broke both my legs once when I was a kid, a really stupid accident that was my fault. I jumped out of the back of a truck my dad was driving at about 40 miles an hour. I didn’t think I’d ever ski again, let alone walk. But after I healed up, I discovered that my skiing was even better, and my legs are even tougher. All because I was stupid, but I’m not saying what happened to you was stupid because it wasn’t, I’ve heard differently. No, I jog like a fool now, just to keep my legs in shape for skiing.”
“Seriously?” Greg asked.
“You bet.” Prentice said, “And I’d also bet you any amount of money, you pitch a no-hitter your first game next season.”
“That’d be cool.” Greg whispered then smiled slightly.
“You’re going to be just fine, buddy.” Prentice said, “I wanted to just stop by and say hello, see how you were feeling.”
“Thank you.” Greg whispered. Prentice got up off the bed, nodded toward Greg, smiled and winked at him, then nodded toward Aiden. Prentice walked out of the room as Ty was walking in.
“Who was that?” Ty asked as he came to the bed.
“Dr. Prentice.” Greg said in a whisper.
“He helped with Greg’s surgery.” Aiden said.
“Did he?” Ty asked, “Wow, he looks pretty young.”
“That’s what he said at least.” Aiden said.
“So, how you feeling?” Ty asked Greg, “Looking forward to getting out of here tomorrow?”
“You bet I am.” Greg whispered, “Tired of laying around.”
“Well, you’re going to do a lot of laying around at the house too, you know.” Ty said making a goofy face. Greg smiled a little as did Aiden. Ty leaned forward a little, “Sex is probably out of the question too.” Both Greg and Aiden blushed with embarrassment, “But we can ask the doctor…just to make sure.” Ty teased then winked really big.
“Uh…no…that’s okay.” Aiden said looking like he was going to pass out. Ty chuckled then shook his head.
“You guys are too much, so easy to tease.” Ty said.
“You’re terrible, Uncle T.” Aiden said with a sigh.
“Yeah I know. Part of my charm.” Ty said and Greg was trying not to laugh because it hurt.
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Derrick walked out of his office as everyone was starting to walk out of the building to go home for the weekend. As was the usual he and Terry would be the last ones out. Either one of them would lock up the building then set the alarm. Derrick said good night to those that passed him by, smiling at them and thanking them all for a good job and a good week, telling them all to have a good weekend as well.
He liked his people, all of them, and enjoyed being here with them. It had always been that way with him. There had been a few that didn’t quite mix in this extended family of the firm, but they had all gone and what was left had become a tight knit group. There had been additions to fill those that had vacated and gone elsewhere, and now Derrick liked the way things were. But he also knew that if they moved the firm, and hopefully were able to grow, there would have to be more added to the mix. Change was inevitable, that is the way of business, something else he knew quite well. He remembered what his own father had told him years ago.
‘Embrace change, son. Not change for the sake of change, but if you do not make changes as they are needed, you could find yourself suddenly out of business. Always be aware.’
Derrick had always remembered that and he lived by it. He and Ty’s marriage were positive proof of that as well. That thought of Ty made Derrick smile, and also remembered what Ty had said in bed last night, how far they had come together in their relationship.
“What are you thinking about, boss?” Terry asked. Derrick snapped out of his thoughts and looked at him.
“Was thinking how good this is.”
“You mean the business?” Terry asked.
“That and other things, life in general.” Derrick said, “I’ve been meaning to ask you, how are things with you and Annie?”
“They’re really good.” Terry said, “I asked her to move in with me, but she wants to wait for a while to help her parents out.”
“What’s wrong with her parents?” Derrick asked.
“I guess her mom has been kind of sick.”
“Carol?” Derrick asked, “Sam hasn’t mentioned it when I’ve seen him. Is she alright?”
“I think so. Annie says she’s pretty tough and is getting over it.”
“I’ve known Carol for a number of years, and I can tell you, there’s no one tougher than her.” Derrick said.
“Yeah, I’d agree with that.” Terry said softly.
“She a little rough on you?” Derrick asked and grinned. Terry rolled his eyes a little and nodded, “Yeah, getting the future son-in-law whipped into shape, that’d be her for sure.” Derrick chuckled.
“I really like her though.” Terry smiled, “I introduced her to my mom and they hit it off real big.”
“Really? I guess you’re serious about this.” Derrick said. Terry nodded.
“Yeah, Annie’s the one.” Terry said.
“Have you proposed?”
“Not yet.” Terry said, “I was going to wait for a bit.”
“Little piece of advice.” Derrick said and put a hand on the young shoulder looking him in the eye, “Don’t wait too long. If it’s right, and you both know it is, don’t wait, bud. Life’s too short.”
“Is it that way with you and Ty, boss?”
“It’s a little different with us.” Derrick said, “And it’s not the gay thing either. I think we both knew but I had a little baggage to get rid of first and I almost lost him over it. A friend of mine put a boot in my butt and made me see it.”
“I bet that hurt.” Terry said and they both laughed.
“Annie’s a sweet girl. I’ve known her for years. They used to live right down the street from us when I was at my parent’s house.”
“Yeah, she said something about that.” Terry said. Derrick’s phone started ringing. He reached into his pocket and pulled it out. He opened his phone and smiled.
“Well, hello stranger. Hold on a second.” Derrick said into the phone. Derrick looked at Terry, “Why don’t you go ahead and go. I’ll lock up.”
“You sure, boss?”
“Yeah, I got it. See you Monday. Have a good weekend.” Derrick said and winked at Terry, turning, and went back to his office, “I was wondering when you were going to call.” Derrick said into the phone.
“Sorry, got a little caught up with what’s going on here.” Alec said. Derrick went around his desk and sat down.
“I can understand. How is it there?” Derrick asked.
“It’s good.” Alec said, “I had a few minutes before dinner service starts and wanted to talk to you. Conner says there’s supposed to be a dinner party on Monday?”
“Yes.” Derrick said, “Just a few of us, a little get together, nothing fancy.”
“I told Conner I want to help.”
“I would love it. We haven’t cooked together in a while, I miss it.” Derrick said.
“So do I. Do you have a menu in mind?”
“Well, I’m thinking something easy and not too elaborate but really good.” Derrick said.
“How many people?”
“Eight.” Derrick said.
“Chicken or fish?” Alec asked.
“You know me too well.” Derrick chuckled into the phone, “I would think chicken.”
“Piccata or Marsala?” Alec asked.
“I would think Piccata. It’s Ty’s favorite.” Derrick said.
“Mine too. I’ve got appetizers figured out already.” Alec said and could hear Derrick chuckling on the other end, “What?”
“Nothing changes.” Derrick said, “Should I just stay out of the way in my own kitchen?”
“Well, you could, but it wouldn’t be any fun, now would it?” Alec asked and chuckled himself.
“I sure missed you, bud.”
“Me too.” Alec said, “Oh, Conner told me what’s going on at the house. You have Aiden there now?”
“Yeah. You know him, right?”
“I do, but barely. We went to the same schools, but he was behind me by a few years. I always remember him being a really nice guy, that and kind of cute, too.” Alec said, “I remember him working at the house too with his uncle and his brother.”
“Yeah. He is a good kid, that’s for sure. Did Conner mention Greg?”
“Kind of, but only what he knew from what you told him, but I think I remember him from school too, if it’s the same guy.” Alec said.
“Could be. You’ll get the chance to meet him Monday.”
“What time is the party?”
“I was thinking around six, if that works for everybody.” Derrick said.
“Good. I’ll be there plenty early to prep.” Alec said.
“It’s supposed to be fun remember.”
“Cooking is fun.” Alec said.
“I know.”
“Dinner tomorrow night is covered as well.” Alec said.
“What do you mean?” Derrick asked.
“Conner asked for takeout from here after working all day tomorrow there apparently.” Alec said.
“I see. I didn’t know that.” Derrick said, “But it may be a good idea. Have Emilio put it on my tab.”
“Conner’s got it.” Alec said.
“He shouldn’t do that.”
“Yeah, you try and stop him then.” Alec said and chuckled, “He got a big raise I guess, so he’s beyond stinking rich now.”
“I didn’t know that either. He said to me that you wanted to move?” Derrick asked.
“Yeah.” Alec said softly. Derrick heard the tone and knew Alec was embarrassed about it from what Conner had said.
“I’ll have something for you to look at, at the house. Conner and I talked about it, but I want your opinion too.” Derrick said.
“What is it?”
“You’ll see.” Derrick said, “Well, I’ve got to lock up the building and get to the store.”
“Yeah, I’ve got to get ready for dinner service. Carlito’s waving a big knife in my direction right now.” Alec said.
“Be careful with him. I’ve heard he can be dangerous because he’s Sicilian.” Derrick said and chuckled.
“Yeah,” Alec said and flashed his eyes at Carlito smiling. Carlito shook his head as they were standing close to one another and there was no knife, “Talk to you later.”
“Love you, bud.” Derrick said.
“Love you too.” Alec said and hung up the phone.
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Ty pulled in the driveway of the house and backed the truck up the driveway. He stopped just where the unit of material he had ordered had been dropped. There was a tag on the banded stack, an edge of the paper lifting now and then in the slight breeze. Ty shut off the truck and got out. He went to the stack and looked it over but left it banded.
He walked to his own truck, the Ford, parked up next to the studio and opened the truck box in the bed. He looked around then found what he was looking for. He pulled out the spray can of marking paint and closed the lid of the truck box. He started shaking the can in his hand making it rattle to mix up the paint inside.
At the back steps of the house he looked from there to the man door of the studio, gauging distance and also appearance with what he wanted to build for the boys, as well as for he and Derrick. The snows would come, and if it was a hard winter, they would be deep. What was to be built would help all that was there in the house and the studio.
Ty used the spray can, marking the one side of the new catwalk that was to be built from the steps to the man door of the studio. He sprayed along until he reached it, then backed up and looked at it. He liked the line that he had made, now it was time for width. He looked at the man door, pulled his tape measure clipped on his front pants pocket and began to mark out for the width, four feet. He made small dots of paint, then moved along toward the back steps of the house. He would connect the dots later when he reached the steps. His phone started ringing in his back pocket. He let the tape snap back, then put it on the grass then he pulled out his phone.
“I love it when you vibrate my butt.” Ty said into the phone. He heard the chuckle on the other end.
“Just wait till I eat it out.” Derrick said. Ty growled into the phone.
“Please tell me you’re horny.”
“Told you before, always horny for you, baby.” Derrick said, “What’re you doing?”
“Some layout for the catwalk.” Ty said.
“Catwalk?” Derrick asked, “Oh that’s right, I forgot. I wanted to call and let you know I was on my way home. Did you need anything from the store?”
“Nope, just you.” Ty said in a husky tone. Derrick growled in the phone this time.
“I’ll be there shortly. I’m leaving the store now.” Derrick said, Ty putting the phone back in his pocket. He continued measuring and marking with the paint. He reached the steps and went up on them and looked back out to see if all was correct and it was. He wiggled his eyebrows and went back down to the grass now connecting the dots with the paint. He reached the man door and looked again, nice straight lines all the way through.
“Gonna be hot.” Ty said. He went back to his truck and opened the box in the bed, putting the paint back, then closing the box. He knew how much time he had before Derrick came home from the store.
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Derrick opened the front door of the house. He bent down and picked up the grocery bags by their handles, carrying them in, seeing the folded wheelchair on the porch for Greg. He used his foot to close the door behind him, going through the living room, then the dining room, into the kitchen. He set the bags down on the counter of the island. It only took a couple of minutes to organize and put things away into the fridge and cabinets. He folded the bags and put them under the island counter in the end door. He went to the back door, knowing Ty was home as the truck was there, and went to the back door, opening it. He opened the screen door with a smile and his lust for his husband took him seeing what was going on in the yard.
Derrick walked down the steps, noticing what Ty had done with the spray paint, but it was Ty himself that was drawing Derrick’s full attention, making Derrick begin to grow in his slacks. Ty was lying partially on his left side in the grass, totally nude, one leg bent, his muscular beauty on display for any aircraft overhead to see, if they were flying low enough.
“Now there’s a sight to come home to.” Derrick said as he came off the steps toward Ty.
“What kept you?”
“Oh, you know, long lines at the grocery store, little old ladies and coupon day. You know how they can be, fighting with each other and anyone else that gets in their way.” Derrick said as he dropped to his knees next to Ty.
“They need to learn that when I’m horny, they need to let you get by them and get home really quick. I don’t like to wait.” Ty said in a husky tone.
“I guess from now on I should carry a big stick with me to beat them off, and to not keep me away.” Derrick said. Ty looked at Derrick’s bulging slacks. He reached for it slowly, putting his hand around it.
“I know you already have a really big stick with you, in your pants…and it belongs to me,” Ty said as he kneaded the bulge, “it’d be unfair to use it on them and such a waste too.”
“Yeah, it belongs to only you, baby.” Derrick groaned as Ty was kneading Derrick’s massive bulge, throwing his head back as he was being worked by the hand, “Oh fuck…”
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