He Scores

He Scores

By

D. J. Manly

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This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. HE SCORES Copyright © 2007 by D. J. Manly ISBN: 1-55410-809-8 Cover art and design by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.extasybooks.com

Chapter One

“Y

ou look fantastic,” Terry said, bringing himself up from his slouching position. He tried to sound enthusiastic as Eve hesitantly hovered around the door of the changing room. She stood in front of the mirror, fussing with the dress. He wasn’t sure how many times she’d tried that one on. He got up out of the chair, and stifled a yawn. “You don’t have to decide today. The prom is a month away, you know.” “This one makes me look fat.” She glanced at him. “Maybe I could lose another ten pounds before…” “You’re perfect just the way you are.” He came up behind her, and hugged her. He balanced his chin on her shoulder and grinned at her in the mirror. “Come on. Let’s get out of here, okay? I’ll treat you to ice cream.” “No ice cream,” she said firmly, shaking him off, then grinned. “You’re the devil.” He suddenly let out a loud and spooky laugh, which earned him a dirty look from one of the 1

D. J. Manly clerks. Eve giggled and went back into the dressing room to change. Terry hid a smile, and looked over at the clerk innocently. It was Charlene Watkins. She had been ahead of him by a few years in school. One of those who thought they were ‘God’s gift.’ Size six, layered with makeup. She was knocked up before graduation, and living with Marty Wells, wide receiver on the football team. Six months ago, he ran off with some girl who worked at Speedy Dry Cleaners. “Are you buying it, or not?” Charlene gave Eve a snotty look as she came out with the dress. “I’ll come back.” “We don’t have a lot of choices in your size,” she said, lifting up her nose. “And nothing in yours,” she glanced at Terry. Terry rolled his eyes. “Come on, Eve, let’s go,” he grabbed her hand. “Leave the dress with the shop girl,” he remarked, meeting Charlene’s eyes. “It is your job to put them back on the rack, isn’t it?” Charlene grabbed the dress out of Eve’s hand, and hustled off to take care of it. When they got outside, Eve started to laugh. “I can’t believe you said that.” “Why?” He shrugged. “It is her job, isn’t it?” Eve smiled, and took his arm as they walked down Main Street. “It doesn’t bother me that 2

He Scores she…” “Yes, it does. And you’re not fat…just because you don’t look like a Popsicle stick.” When Eve didn’t reply, he said, “Why do you let people like Charlene get to you? She’s not better than you. She’s works in a dress shop for Christ’s sakes, has a baby and a deadbeat boyfriend. She’s cruel and petty, and the only reason she puts others down is to make herself feel better.” “I know,” Eve said as they walked past the park, “but it still hurts. I don’t know how you do it, especially at school.” Terry sighed. “I don’t hear them anymore.” “Don’t you?” she asked, meeting his eyes. “I’ll be eighteen years old in three weeks, as soon as I graduate and get enough money together, I’m getting to hell out of this shit town.” “I don’t want you to go.” “I thought you said you’d come with me.” Eve stopped, and looked at him. “Sometimes I think I’m always going to be stuck here.” Terry swallowed. To be stuck in this town the rest of his life would be nightmare. He knew there was a place out there where people like him were allowed to live their lives. God, how he longed for that freedom. “Coming in?” Eve said, brightening. They had reached the door of Monica’s Diner. “Yeah.” 3

D. J. Manly “Double chocolate, one ball,” she said. Terry grinned. “Okay. Me too.” They sat in Monica’s, off in a corner, eating their ice cream and talking about the upcoming grad. Eve had talked him into going to the grad. Terry had had no intention of it. The only good thing about it was that it signalled the end of a long nightmare. He was weeks away from his eighteenth birthday as well, which meant his mother couldn’t stop him from leaving Norwich. He had saved up a few hundred dollars from jobs he’d done helping people clean up their lawns, and shovelling snow in the winter. A bus trip into Toronto only cost seventy dollars. He needed enough to tide him over a few days, long enough to find a job, and he’d be okay. He could start a new life where no one knew him, and where he could start to live, start to breathe. “Well look,” someone called out suddenly. “It’s Terry, the fairy, with his meaty little sidekick, Evelyn.” Terry glanced up to see Keith Fuller and his evil twin, Russ, walk into Monica’s. The sight of them used to strike fear in his heart, but not anymore. Terry met Eve’s eyes, and gave her a soft smile. He knew it deeply hurt Eve when the kids made fun of her size, although she wasn’t enormous by any counts. “So,” he placed his hand on hers, “since you’ve talked me into going with you to this damn 4

He Scores prom, what kind of a corsage do you want? I noticed that there’s the one’s you pin on and then…” “Hey, fag boy,” Russ called to him, as Monica went into the kitchen to cook him up some fries, “what dress you wearing to the prom?” Keith Fuller found this hilarious because he slammed his fist on the counter and fell on it, laughing at the top of his lungs. “Got one you can lend me?” Terry called over to him, leaning back in his seat. Russ gave him the finger. Keith just kept laughing. Monica made an appearance now, a grey haired woman in her fifties who had known them all since they were kids. She eyed the Fullers, and they quieted down. “Your fries will be ready in a jiff. Go, sit down and behave.” She glanced over at Terry, and Eve. “You kids want something else?” “No,” Terry said. Eve turned and shook her head. “Let’s go.” Terry wanted to get out of there before Russ and Keith did. He wasn’t in the mood to deal with their shit. They walked toward home, Eve suggesting they take the shortcut through the woods. Terry hesitated, but followed when she pulled on his arm. She was telling him that she regretted her decision not to buy that dress. “I think it looked 5

D. J. Manly okay, although the navy one was more slimming and…” Terry listened politely, drifting off a bit. It suddenly dawned on him that he hadn’t taken this shortcut in almost two years. He glanced over at the place where several guys from school had jumped him. They’d beat him up pretty bad. He hadn’t gone to school for a week. He’d had to plead with his mother not to go to police, or report it to the school. He’d never told anyone what had happened, how they’d humiliated him. Not even Eve knew that. He’d told her he had the flu, and the bruises…well…he got those falling off his bike. After that, he stayed away from that path. He stayed away from any place where he could be ambushed. “So?” Eve bellowed at him as they reached the end of the path, and stepped out into the clearing, which was basically the neighbourhood they lived in. “What?” “Have you been listening to me at all?” “Yeah, sure,” he said, breathing a sigh of relief. He hadn’t realised that the fear had crept up into his throat as they travelled through those trees. “So, what do you think? Navy or peach?” “Which one do you like the best?” “You’re such a man.” She shook her head, punching him in the arm, and walking off in the opposite direction. “Bye,” she called over her 6

He Scores shoulder. Terry laughed. “Bye,” he hollered back and strolled across the street to his house. **** Carmen Donaldson was sitting out on the porch as Terry came up the driveway. His parents had divorced two years ago, and Terry lived alone with his mother now. His father was living somewhere in Alberta, working on an oil rig, and he hadn’t seen him since the divorce. He sent his mother support payments off and on, and with that, and his mother’s job as a dental hygienist, they got by okay. “Isn’t the weather great,” Carmen commented with a smile as Terry came up onto the steps. He plunked himself down, and nodded absently. His mother lit a cigarette. “I thought you were quitting?” “I will soon.” “Sure.” “I will.” She laughed, kicking his shoulder lightly with her bare toe. He smirked at her. “What’s for supper?” “Meatloaf.” “Again?” “Leftovers.” “Yum.” “What did you and Eve do today?” 7

D. J. Manly “Prom stuff.” “I’m glad you decided to go after all.” “Why?” “Because it’s your prom too.” “Right.” “It is. You have just as much right as everyone else to…” “But only if I go with a girl.” “I thought you wanted to go with Eve?” “Mother.” Terry looked at her. “Eve and I are friends, that’s all. In fact, she’s my only friend. She’d prefer to go with Eric Dawson, that stuck up bastard, who’s in love with his own reflection, but he doesn’t give her a second look, and I’d prefer to…well…there’s no one I could take anyway.” His mother looked away. “You used to like that Cathy girl…remember?” “In the first grade.” “What ever happened to her?” “They moved away.” Terry looked down at his hands. Cathie’s older brother, Steven, was the one he’d really had a crush on. He was so handsome, even at fourteen. In the seventh grade, Terry had written a love note to him, one he’d never intended to give to him, of course. Keith Fuller had grabbed it out of his hands during math class when the teacher had left the room, and read it out loud to everyone. Terry had been so embarrassed. Everyone had laughed, and called him, “Terry the 8

He Scores Fairy.” Steven got wind of it, and he never spoke to Terry again. Thank God, they’d moved away. After that, his life became a nightmare. He got teased all the time, then beat up. His life was almost unbearable until Eve had moved into town. Eve was a quiet, super intelligent girl, who was better than the guys at math and science, and was considered to be just a few sizes too large to fit in with the popular crowd. So, they automatically gravitated to each other, and had practically been inseparable. And while Eve dreamed about Eric Dawson, Terry swallowed his desires, and focussed his energy on his school work. He learned how to avoid potentially dangerous situations, and tried not to bring undue attention to himself. It seemed to him his mother was in denial, somehow feeling that someday he was going to suddenly ‘outgrow’ these ‘silly’ feelings which had taken hold of him in what she called ‘the hormonal insanity of puberty,’ and start lusting after girls. “It’s a shame,” she’d told him once. “You are so good looking. There are plenty of girls who’d love to go out with you.” It was just better they didn’t discuss it at all. “I didn’t tell your father,” she said suddenly, crushing out her half smoked cigarette. “You heard from Dad?” “He called while you were out. Said he’d call 9

D. J. Manly back. He knows your birthday is coming up. He wants to send you something.” “He doesn’t have to.” “Anyway, I wouldn’t mention it if I were you.” “Mention what?” He stood up. “There’s nothing to mention.” He walked by her, raced up the stairs to his room, and shut the door. He clicked on his computer, and composed an email to Eve. “I prefer the peach one,” he wrote, “’cause you’re a peach. Coming over tonight?” He pressed send. He glanced at his door. His mother wouldn’t let him put a lock on it, although he wanted to. Oh well, if she walked in on him, she walked in on him. He typed “naked men” in the browser, and checked out the free sites. He always felt so guilty looking at those pictures, especially when he got a hard on. He closed his eyes for a second, rubbing his hand across his groin. “Terry the Fairy,” he mouthed. He laughed. That’s what he was. That’s what everyone called him. They were right. To hell with them! He’d never be normal. He pushed away from the computer, fighting back tears. He inspected himself in the mirror for a few seconds. Was he handsome? He was tall, slender, with shoulder length light brown hair. Eve told him he had nice eyes. “Terry, the Fairy,” he whispered to his reflection. He picked up his pillow off the bed, and pressed his face to it. He imagined he was kissing one of those handsome, naked men on the 10

He Scores internet, somewhere else, somewhere he wasn’t the only one. **** “You don’t look like you slept a lot last night,” Eve told him first thing Monday morning at school. Terry opened his locker, and took out his math book. “My dad called me.” “Oh God, really?” “Yeah. He got all apologetic about not coming to see me and shit.” Eve fell quiet. “Sorry.” “Forget it. I just didn’t…I wish he’d just not bother, you know?” She nodded, following him to class. “Are you ready for the exam?” she asked him as she slipped into her desk behind him. “I guess so.” At lunch, they sat at their usual table, eating quietly. Eve got all flustered when Eric walked by. “Did you see that bitch Brie fawn all over Eric today in science lab?” “Yeah.” “I don’t think she’s pretty, do you?” “She’s okay. They’re not going out.” “I know, but…I hear he’s not going to prom.” “Good choice.” 11

D. J. Manly She frowned at him. “Remember what we said, it’s our last hurrah…and we’re going out with a blast. Right?” “Right,” Terry grinned, picking up his tray. “Bell is going to ring. See you second period.” **** After school, they went to Monica’s, and ordered milk shakes at the counter. Monica served them, then, paused on her way to the cash register. She turned to look at them. “Terry?” “Yes?” “What are you doing this summer?” “Ah, don’t know. If I can raise enough cash, I’m going to Toronto.” “I need somebody in the kitchen. Jack is moving out West.” “Kitchen, like cooking?” “Yep.” “I don’t know much about…” Eve nudged him. “Ah…sure but…” “Don’t worry, I’ll show you the ropes. And Eve, if you’re into it, I could use some help waiting tables. You know how it gets here in the summer.” Norwich got a lot of tourists in the summer because of the great campgrounds, and the fact that they were right on Lake Ontario. Eve got excited. “Really?” “Sure,” Monica said. “I could use you both, as 12

He Scores soon as school lets out in a few weeks.” She eyed Terry. “Would help you get that money together you need.” He nodded. “Yeah, thanks, Monica.” He looked at Eve, and smiled. “It will be fun working together.” “Yeah,” Eve said. “Wait until I tell my folks.” **** The first time he’d really ever devoted more than a second thought to Adrian Vincent, was when he overhead a conversation between Eric Dawson, and Keith Fuller, in the guys locker room. He was on the other side, getting dressed when Keith came out of the showers, and said, “Hey, Eric, you heard about The Flash being in town. “The Flash? No shit. Here?” Eric squawked. “What’s he doing here? You seen him?” Terry wasn’t sure who ‘The Flash’ was until Fuller mentioned hockey. Then he remembered. “The Flash” was a professional hockey player, center for the Canadian Rockets. People in town claimed that Adrian Vincent was a hometown boy, having been born in Norwich, but leaving shortly after Adrian was born. But it was more of a rumour than anything else. “No, I didn’t see him,” Keith was saying. “Someone in town said he’s out at the old Carter 13

D. J. Manly house on Grady Road.” “He bought that dump?” “I don’t know.” “I’m going downtown to check it out. Sam told me the press showed up like gang busters this morning. He saw all kinds of TV vehicles and shit at lunch when he went to eat hot dogs at Monica’s.” “I saw him play once in Toronto,” Eric said. “Man, if you see him on ice, you’ll know why they call him the Flash. He is so fast. Did you know he scored over one hundred and forty goals this last season? That’s a record, man.” “He’s the greatest hockey player on earth,” Keith said. “He skates like lighting. He’s fast…and strong…and he can shoot like…did you see the last game against…” Terry had tuned them out at that point, losing interest. Hockey wasn’t really his thing. **** Later that day as Terry walked home with Eve; he casually mentioned the conversation he’d overheard in the locker room. “Did you know there’s some hockey player in town?” “Who? A real hockey player? You mean NHL?” “Yep. Adrian Vincent.” “Adrian Vincent? Oh, man,” she said, grabbing his arm. “He’s a doll. And a great hockey player. Wait until I tell my dad, he thinks he’s a god. He 14

He Scores was born here, you know?” “That’s just a rumour. It’s never been confirmed.” “My dad says he knew his folks.” Terry shrugged. “Maybe, but even if he was born here, they left right away. He’s not really a hometown boy.” “What’s he doing here?” “Don’t know. I hear he’s at the old Carter house on Grady Road. Don’t worry, you’ll hear all about it soon enough. Nothing stays a secret for long in this place.” “Think we’ll get to…” Eve paused suddenly, and then pointed down the street as they turned the corner, “look, Ter…look at all the reporters and shit. Do you think he’s really here, Adrian Vincent? Think we could get his autograph?” Terry smiled. Eve was so excited, but as for him, the appearance of some jock in town…well, he could have cared less really. But, he didn’t want to dampen her enthusiasm. Nothing really exciting ever happened in this town. “I don’t know,” he placed an arm around her shoulder. “Let’s go find out.”

15

D. J. Manly

Chapter Two

T

hat evening, Terry’s mother questioned him about all the reporters in town. “They say Adrian Vincent’s taken up residence at the old farm, out of Grady Road.” “Yeah, maybe he going to give up hockey for farming,” Terry joked. “I doubt that. Do you know how much those guys make for chasing a little puck around the ice?” Terry shrugged. “A lot, I suspect, which is why I doubt some big hockey player is going to hang out here in this shit town. Is it true, he was born here?” His mother stood near the sofa, looking down at where Terry was laying. “That’s what they say. So, no one saw him?” “Nope, and Eve was disappointed.” He laughed. “She thinks he’s to die for.” His mother grinned. “Yes. I’ve seen his picture…if I was twenty years younger. So, what 16

He Scores was going on with all the reporters? Think it’s a hoax?” Terry sighed. “Have no idea. It was just a bunch of reporters interviewing the locals about Adrian Vincent. Now, will you let me watch my program, please?” “Okay, but I want to watch the local news at six. We’ll probably hear all about it then.” “Oh Mom, you are so small town.” He rolled his eyes. She swatted him lightly on the head. “What do you want for supper?” “Anything except meatloaf.” Terry’s mother turned on the little television in the kitchen after she’d served the spaghetti. Promptly at six, the news anchor, Frank Delaney came on. “Good evening, and welcome to the six o’clock news for Norwich County. Residents of Norwich were awaken this morning to a cavalcade of reporters who descended on the town apparently looking for hockey star, Adrian Vincent, nicknamed ‘the Flash’ by his fans. Although nothing has been confirmed by the National Hockey Association, it has been rumoured that Vincent, who plays center for the Canadian Rockets, has asked to be released from his contract. At that moment, a picture of Adrian Vincent playing hockey, appeared on the screen. Terry glanced up from his plate, then went back to 17

D. J. Manly eating. His mother sat transfixed by the images. The announcer threw out a lot of numbers, then, said, “This farm house just on the outskirts of Norwich is reputed to be the home of Vincent’s late maternal grandparents. Although reporters weren’t able to confirm if Vincent was there, a few neighbours reported seeing someone who matched his description. “Look, honey,” Carmen Donaldson said, “it’s Mr. Scott. He used to teach at the school. I think you had him the last year, just before he retired.” Terry sighed, and put down his folk. His grade six history teacher came on the television now, speaking into a microphone someone had shoved at him. “Yes,” he said, “I’m sure the house is being occupied, except I can’t say it was that Vincent fellow I saw. All I know is I was taking my dog, Daisy, for a stroll and I saw this big fellow…must have been six foot four or so, walking around the old Carter house, looked like he was inspecting the foundation. He’s going to have himself a lot of work to do if he stays.” “Do you know anything about the family who owns the house?” “Used to belong to the Carters. I’m sure their daughter married a Vincent. They lived there a spell with her parents, then, moved on. Went to Toronto I think.” “Smart move,” Terry mumbled. “So, the Carters were Adrian Vincent’s grandparents?” 18

He Scores “I would say so, yes, but can’t say for sure if that hockey player is the same breed of cats, although it sure would be nice for this town.” “Oh, for Christ’s sakes,” Terry moaned. “Turn that off, Mom. Even if it is that hockey player up there, it looks like he doesn’t want to be bothered. Why don’t they just leave him alone?” “The price of fame,” she said, reaching over and turning off the television. A few minutes later, the phone rang. It was Eve, asking him if he’d seen the news report. “Yeah, I saw it,” he said. “What do you think? Want to go take a bike ride out there and…?” “No.” “Oh come on, Terry. Come with me and check it out.” “You go. Let me know if you see anything.” “Party poop.” He laughed and hung up. After helping his mother with the dishes, he checked the time, and decided that he’d go out to his spot at the lake. He still had to finish that novel he was reading for English class, and it was a great evening, warm with a cool breeze. As he walked along the path, down to the water, he began to breathe easier. He loved this spot. It was a sheltered spot, under a tree, hidden 19

D. J. Manly from the road. It was near to his house, no more than a ten minute walk. He’d been coming here since he was fourteen years old, to read, watch the ducks parade on the water, to think, to be alone. It was his spot, a little piece of heaven in his crazy world. He settled down immediately, looking around him for a minute, locating the ducks which were further out tonight, and letting his gaze span the woods which grew denser around the lake if you ventured deeper. He had started to walk the trail once, but then grew panicky, and returned. His fear of being caught alone somewhere had never disappeared since he’d been attacked. He shook that thought away, and opened his book. He was halfway through. Usually, he liked to read, but this one was boring the hell out of him. When he heard the sound of footsteps, he froze, laid his book on his lap and peered around the tree. When he did, he caught sight of the young man who was standing there. He was wearing a pair of short navy nylon shorts, a light blue t-shirt and jogging shoes. His hair was wet with sweat, and looked to be tied back at the nape of his neck. He saw his face from the side only, strong features, a body like a sculptured statue, muscular calves and thighs, flat stomach, narrow waist, and a powerful torso. Adrian Vincent? Terry scrambled to his feet. 20

He Scores When he did, the man walked around the tree. “Hi,” he said. “I didn’t know anyone was there.” He smiled, and it transformed his face. He had little indentations at the sides of his mouth when he smiled, and his eyes suddenly took on the most beautiful shade of blue. “Ah, well, I’m nobody really. I’m just ah…I came here to read.” Terry couldn’t help but notice the way that t-shirt clung to his upper body. His tanned biceps were gleaming with perspiration. He laughed a little. “Well, I won’t disturb you. I was just jogging.” He was holding a plastic bottle of water in his fist, and he tipped it up and drank deeply from it. It seemed that every muscle in his body moved under his skin as he swallowed. Terry looked away. “I’m ah… Terry. Are you…?” “Yes,” he said, wiping his mouth on the back of his hand. “But please, keep it to yourself. I’m looking for some solitude.” “The…ah…press is gone, I think.” “For now.” He held out his hand. “Adrian. Adrian Vincent.” Terry took it briefly, then, let it go. “Terry Donaldson.” Adrian moved past him, closer to the waters edge. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Terry’s gaze automatically moved over the man’s broad shoulders, down the length of his 21

D. J. Manly back to his ass. He couldn’t help it. It was so…round and tight and…God. Terry wrenched his eyes away. “Yes,” he said, “it’s really beautiful.” Adrian Vincent turned around now and glanced at him. “What are you reading?” “Ah, some crap for school.” He smiled. “What grade?” “Twelfth. I’m graduating, then getting to hell out of here.” After he’d said it, he regretted it. There was no reason to confess that to a stranger. “A little dull, I suppose.” “Ah, yeah, you could say that.” “I remember high school. I really hated to leave it.” “I bet,” Terry said. He was sure that Adrian Vincent had been super popular. “Anyway, I won’t miss it at all.” “You sound bitter.” Terry met his gaze for a second, then, looked away. “No, I…anyway, I want to get a job in Toronto, but looks like I’m stuck here for awhile. I kind of committed to a job at Monica’s.” “What’s Monica’s?” He turned back to the lake again. Terry studied his hair. It was hard to tell the colour given that he’d been jogging, but Terry guessed it was dark brown, or black. His gaze moved back down to his ass. “Ah, it’s a diner in 22

He Scores town, the diner really. If you come into town, you might want to eat there. The food is pretty good.” “I will,” he walked past him now, “when things die down.” Adrian turned to look at him. “Nice meeting you, Terry. And thanks for not telling anyone you saw me just yet.” Terry shrugged. “I won’t. No problem.” “Are you a hockey fan?” “Ah, no. To be honest, I don’t think I’ve ever watched an entire game. Sorry.” He laughed. “Fantastic. See you.” “See you,” Terry said, watching him as he took the trail, and disappeared from view. As Terry walked home, he thought of all the questions he wanted to ask him, like, what he was doing here at the Carter’s farm, but maybe that would have been too forward. When he thought about him standing there, all sweaty, in those shorts and that t-shirt, his mouth went a little dry and his pulse quickened. He sure was handsome… more than handsome. Suddenly, he wanted to know everything about him. He plugged his name into the browser on the computer as soon as he got home, and started reading every thing he could find. Adrian Vincent was twenty years old, six foot four, and weighed two hundred pounds. Last season, he was the top scorer in the league, and was described as the fastest thing on ice. Although 23

D. J. Manly the Rockets had not won the big prize this year, they had moved up from eighth in the division to second, and it was all because of Adrian Vincent. The predictions were that they would take the cup next year with Vincent on board, who had been asked to serve as team captain. The latest news about Vincent was that he was in some kind of a dispute with the NHL, and there was some suggestion that he wanted out of his contract altogether. The details were sketchy. Even sketchier were the details about Adrian Vincent’s private life. No mention of where he was born, or if he were married, engaged…nothing. That was disappointing. At one o’clock in the morning, Terry was searching for photos of him. He found many pictures of Adrian on the ice, but only one where he was dressed in a pair of jeans and a shirt, posing for some endorsement of sport equipment. Finally, he shut off the computer and climbed into bed. He finished out the week without managing to spill his secret to Eve, although he sorely wanted to tell her. Each night he went back to his spot, and waited, but he didn’t come. On the weekend, he hung out with Eve, wanting to suggest that they take a bike ride out onto the old road, but he held back. Finally, after 24

He Scores supper on Sunday, he walked over to Eve’s and rang the bell. Her father answered, a big strapping man who’d always been nice to him. He told him to come in, and hollered to Eve. “So,” Eve’s father said, “you seen the Flash yet?” “The…ah…Adrian? Ah, no…I…” “Heard he was in town today. He went to the bank. My wife called me after he left. She said he made a big deposit. Seems like he’ll be staying for awhile.” Terry’s heart sped up a notch. He nodded. Eve appeared, grabbed his arm, and said goodbye to her father. “Not too late,” he called after her. “It’s a school night.” “Did you hear?” she asked him as they got outside. “Adrian Vincent walked into the bank today. My mom almost got to wait on him. He was standing in line and…” “Your dad told me,” Terry said. “Think he’ll stay all summer?” “I don’t know.” “Can’t wait to run into him. I…” “I already did.” Terry grinned. He couldn’t hold it in any longer. “What? When?” “A few days ago. I didn’t tell you because he asked me not to, but since he’s been in town, I 25

D. J. Manly guess it’s okay.” “You shit!” She slapped him, laughing. “Okay, tell me every detail.” He smiled. “Well, he was jogging, and I was at my secret place, and he stopped, and we talked.” “You talked? You talked about what?” “Nothing really.” “So, what’s he like? Come on, tell me.” “Gorgeous,” he said, smiling. “Oh, Eve, he’s beautiful. I…” Terry blushed. She laughed. “You got a crush on him.” “He’s bigger than life. He has such a cute smile, and little dimples at the sides of his mouth…and a great…well…you’d have to see his body.” “My dad says hockey players have to stay in great shape. They have to have great balance, and strong stomach and leg muscles, because hockey is a very physically demanding sport.” Terry nodded. “Want to bike out by his house and…?” Terry shook his head. “No. I don’t want him to think I’m stalking him, or anything. I think he wants privacy.” “We won’t stop. We’ll just go by.” Terry paused, then, nodded. “Okay.” It was a great evening. They were laughing and talking as they biked along, then quieted some as they turned onto Graydon Road. Just ahead in the distance, up on a small hill sat a sprawling old 26

He Scores farm house. It was in need of repair. The barn was falling down, and a corral which once had had horses, stood rotting in the field. “Think he’ll raise chickens?” Eve called out, laughing. She had pulled out ahead of him, anxious to see if she could catch sight of Adrian Vincent. “I doubt it,” Terry muttered, peddling along slowly. “Doubt he’s the type.” Suddenly a dog barked in the distance, and Terry saw a huge black Lab bounding towards them. Eve let out a scream, and turned the wheel of her bike sharply. The motion propelled her over the handlebars and flat on her face in the dirt. Terry jumped off his bike and ran to her. The lab jumped around in excitement, clearly showing that all he wanted to do was to play. “Eve, are you alright?” She had skinned her knees and her elbows, and she had a nasty gash on her cheek. “Shit.” She was a little dazed. “King,” a deep voice shouted out now, sounding severe. “Where are you? Get back here!” The dog ran in the direction of his master’s voice, barking. Suddenly, Adrian Vincent was standing there in front of them, holding his dog by the collar. “Shit,” he said, “what happened?” Eve tried to brush herself off, and Terry helped her to her feet. 27

D. J. Manly “You’re…” she began with a dazed smile. “You’re hurt,” he said, looking down at her bleeding knees. “I’m sorry. King loves to play and…” “It was my fault,” Eve said. “I panicked and…” Adrian looked at Terry. “Hi. Terry, right?” “Yes,” he smiled. How could he not? Adrian was dressed in jeans and a blue t-shirt. His hair, which was definitely black wasn’t sweaty this time. It hung loose around his shoulders, and there was this shadow on his jaw which meant he hadn’t shaved. Terry turned his attention to Eve. “Are you alright?” “Well, I…” “Come up,” he said. “I have bandages and stuff. I’ll fix you right up,” he said to Eve. She blushed, and Terry hid a smile. “I’ll bring up your bikes,” Adrian said. “King, home.” The dog ran along ahead as Adrian collected the bikes. Terry took Eve’s arm and helped her toward the house. Terry risked one look back at him, then gave Eve the once over again. “Does it hurt?” “Yes, it hurts so good,” she grinned. “He’s…” “I know, to die for.” She laughed. “This is cool.” “Did you fall off that bike on purpose?” “Of course not,” she whispered, “just a lucky 28

He Scores break.” Terry shook his head. Adrian met them at the door, putting both their bikes up against the house. “Come in,” he said. “Don’t mind the mess.” Terry and Eve followed him into the front door. They were in a huge kitchen with an old wood table and chairs. “The appliances are old, but they still work,” Adrian announced. “Take a seat. I’ll go and get the first aid kit.” “Wow,” Eve said, looking around. “That stove looks like it was made in the fifties.” “Yeah. This must be his grandparents’ place. Even the furniture is here.” “You’re right,” he said, startling them, “this was my grandparent’s house. My mother still owns it. She told me I could have it, if I wanted it.” “So, it’s true,” Eve said, watching as Adrian opened the kit and took out some peroxide. “You are a Norwich boy.” He laughed, pouring some peroxide on a sterile cloth. “You might say that. I was born here, but honestly this is the first time I’ve been back since I was a baby.” He leaned down on his haunches in front of Eve. Terry noticed how the material of his jeans tightened across his thighs and his groin. “This is going to sting,” he said, pressing it to her knee. 29

D. J. Manly Eve fidgeted a bit, but Terry knew that it wasn’t only due to the peroxide. Adrian Vincent had his hand on her leg, and that was enough to make anyone fidget. “Didn’t you come and see your grandparents?” Eve asked. Terry wanted to caution her to stop asking so many questions, but there was little he could do to stop her. “My mother had a huge argument with her parents. They didn’t want her to move away I guess. Unfortunately, she never saw them again.” “That’s sad,” Eve said. “Yes,” he said, now applying the peroxide to the other knee. Terry studied his bent head. His hair was black, glossy, looked silky. He almost reached out and touched it. “There,” he said. “Now, let’s take a look at your cheek.” He stood up and bent over her, her chin in his hand as he studied the cut. “Okay, a little peroxide. The bleeding has stopped. I don’t think you’ll have a scar. We wouldn’t want to ruin that beautiful face of yours.” Eve blushed like crazy. Adrian released her chin, dabbed some antiseptic on the cloth and pressed it to her cheek. “Okay,” he said, stepping back. “Now, let me put a bandage on those knees and that should do it.” 30

He Scores “My elbows,” she said, holding them up. Terry rolled his eyes. They were barely grazed. Adrian gave her a patient smile. “Of course,” he said, dapping some peroxide on each elbow. “I can put your bikes in the back of my truck, and take you home if you like.” Eve nodded. Terry hesitated. “I can…well…go on my own. That’s okay.” “It’s up to you,” he said, applying the bandage to Eve’s knees. “Just let me get my keys, ah…Eve…and we’ll be ready to go.” When he left the kitchen, Eve closed her eyes and pretended to lose consciousness in the chair. “Oh Terry, he’s beautiful,” she whispered, “and he’s driving me home. Don’t you want to come?” Terry shook his head. He grinned. “You go ahead. You can tell me all about it later.” “What if he wants to ravish me?” Terry laughed. All he knew is, if Adrian Vincent wanted to ravish him, he wouldn’t complain. But guys like Adrian Vincent wouldn’t be interested in him, and he was sure that Adrian was straight. Big, macho, hockey players usually were. Terry watched as Adrian helped Eve into his 2007 Tundra truck, and put her bike in the back. The dog jumped in with the bike, his tail wagging. 31

D. J. Manly Adrian glanced at him once before getting in. “You sure you don’t want a ride? It’s getting a little dark.” “I’m fine. Thanks, Mr. Vincent.” “Adrian,” he said, getting behind the wheel and starting the engine. He lifted a hand to him, then, drove out of the driveway. Terry sighed and got onto his bike. He drove quickly down Graydon road, and back towards the town. He slowed down a little as he reached Main Street, as there was some traffic. There was a gang of kids from the school in front of Monica’s. He could see Eric and some of the others. Someone hollered out, “Terry the Fairy,” and a tin can went careening down the sidewalk, causing him to brake fast to avoid it. “Assholes!” he yelled back, peddling faster now in the direction of his neighbourhood. He breathed a sigh of relief when he reached his front door. He yelled out, “Hi Mom,” then went up to his room. There was an email from Eve. In big letters, she wrote. I’M IN LOVE! Tell you everything tomorrow. Terry shut down the computer, and got into bed. He closed his eyes. He could see Adrian Vincent down on his knees in front of Eve, then suddenly Eve disappeared, and Adrian was down on his knees in front of him, but he didn’t have any first aid kit. “Terry,” he said softly, “I want you. I want to taste you, suck your cock.” Terry 32

He Scores reached for his cock under the blankets. He squeezed it a few times. “Adrian,” he whispered. “You’re all I’ve ever dreamt of.” Adrian kissed him. Then they were rolling around together on the kitchen floor at the old Carter place and…yes, yes, Adrian. Terry masturbated, imagining that he wasn’t a virgin. He was experienced and hot, and Adrian wanted him. “I’ve slept with a lot of men,” he said aloud, “but never anyone like you, Adrian. I want to please you. Please, let me touch you all over and suck you…and you can fuck me. I want you to…” That was it. His cock exploded in his hand, warm cum running down his thigh, staining the sheets. He got up and cleaned himself up. Nothing was going to ever happen with him and Adrian. Adrian wouldn’t want Terry the Fairy, and he had nothing to give him. He wouldn’t even know how to kiss him, although he’d sure like to try. He looked at himself in the mirror. “I have to get out of here. I have to go to the city, find someone to…to teach me.” He sighed. He was so lonely, and now, with Adrian here, all of a sudden, that loneliness had intensified and he felt it more acutely than ever before. Right after first period, when he went into the guy’s bathroom, Keith and Russ grabbed him and put him up against the wall. “Hey,” Terry 33

D. J. Manly protested, struggling, “what in hell?” “You called me an asshole last night,” Keith said, his teeth bared. “Yeah,” Russ slammed him hard against the wall. “You’re the asshole. Don’t you fags like to take it up the ass…fudgepacker…you would like it …if I stuck it up there? Want me to do it?” “Yeah, maybe it will be your graduation present?” Keith laughed. Terry’s heart was pounding. He swore, struggled again. “Let me go, you fucker. You god damned…” Just then the door opened and the teacher on hall duty walked in. “You guys get to class.” It was Mr. Jenkins, the gym teacher. He’d never liked Terry much. “Not you,” he told Terry. “Sir? I wasn’t doing anything, Sir. It’s Keith and his brother. They were threatening me and…” “I don’t want to hear it,” he said. “It’s time you stop your whining, Donaldson, and be a man. You are turning eighteen in a few days, aren’t you?” “Yes Sir.” Terry glared at him. “Then grow up. They might not call you that name if you’d act more…stand up for yourself. You know what I mean.” He punched him in the arm. Terry didn’t reply. “Who are you taking to the prom?” “Eve, Sir.” 34

He Scores “Good,” he growled. “Now, get to class.” Terry ducked out of the washroom, and went to class. He went to Monica’s after school, and sat in the corner with Eve. They ate French fries and talked about their finals. “What do you want for your birthday?” Eve asked him. “Nothing.” “Oh, come on.” “I don’t know.” Russ, Keith, and Eric walked in suddenly, and Terry sighed. “What?” “Nothing, let’s go, okay?” “Let me finish my fries.” Terry settled back against the seat. The three of them came and sat in the next seat. Keith started throwing fries at him. Russ sang, “Terry, the Fairy, likes his asses hairy…” Terry was just about to get up and leave when the door opened, and Adrian Vincent walked in. Terry thought he was going to die. He didn’t want Adrian Vincent to hear the kids calling him names like that. “There’s Adrian,” Eve announced, which of course alerted the kids in the next table. Luckily, their attention left him, and went immediately to Adrian Vincent. “Hey, man,” Keith said, “it’s him, man.” “No shit,” Eric said, as if in a trance. 35

D. J. Manly Russ got right up and walked over to him. “Mr…eh…you’re the Flash, man.” “Yep,” he said with a nod. “Can we have your autograph?” “Sure,” he said, “just let me order some food and I’ll do that for you.” “Let’s say hi,” Eve said. “No,” Terry replied, “let’s just…” “Adrian,” Eve called out, waving. Adrian smiled when he saw her, waving back, then, looked at Terry, who sunk down in his seat. God, please, he pleaded in his head, don’t let anyone call me Terry the fairy in front of Adrian Vincent. “It’s going to be awhile, Mr. Vincent,” Monica called out. “Have a seat, and I’ll bring it on over.” “Okay,” he said, walking over to where the three guys sat. “What do you want me to sign?” They all began talking at once, fawning over him, citing his statistics, and asking him about this game and that game. He began to sign their notebooks, then, Terry heard Russ say in a huge voice, “Don’t get too close to that other table. That’s Terry the Fairy and his fat sidekick. You could catch something.” There was laughter. Terry saw Eve’s face fall, and he felt twice as bad for her, as he did for himself. He reached over and touched her hand, then, he saw Adrian out of the corner of his eye. He wasn’t laughing. His pen 36

He Scores froze in mid stroke. “What did you say?” “He’s a queer,” Russ gestured with his wrist, “You know, a fag, a cock sucker.” They all laughed. Eve and Terry both stood up to leave. Adrian turned his head around sharply, put a hand up in the air and looked at Terry. “No, you stay right there. You’re not going anywhere.” Terry swallowed hard. “Whoo hooo….” Russ shouted “You’re in for it now, fairy.” “No,” Adrian said, looking at Russ “you’re in for it now.” The guys at that table went dead silent. “What kind of shit did I hear coming out of your mouths?” No answer. “You know, I don’t know what kind of rednecks you guys are, but I will tell you one thing, you’re not getting my autograph. In fact, don’t ever speak to me again. You got it?” They all looked down, and nodded. “And before you leave, you’re going to apologise, to Terry, and to Eve, who happen to be friends of mine. Do it,” he said, “do it now before I kick your ass.” There was not a sound in the room. Terry couldn’t believe it. Eve placed a hand on her chest. “Sorry there, ah…Terry,” Russ said. “Didn’t 37

D. J. Manly mean it, Eve.” Keith cleared his throat. “Yeah, no hard feelings guys, okay? It was a joke.” “We didn’t mean anything by it,” Eric muttered. “Now,” Adrian said, “leave. And when ever you see me, on the street, in here, anywhere, walk the other way. I don’t want to be anywhere near the likes of you guys. Got it?” They nodded, and very quietly shuffled out the door. “Now,” Adrian turned around and smiled at Terry and Eve, “I hope you guys aren’t leaving. I’d like someone to talk to while I eat.” Terry sat back down, and Adrian slipped in beside him. Eve fell in the seat across from them. “Can I get you guys something?” Both of them shook their head. He smiled again. “So, what’s new?” Eventually when Terry and Eve recovered from what had just happened, they all began to talk. Adrian never once mentioned the incident, and neither did they, but from that day on, a bond had been forged.

38

He Scores

Chapter 3

T

hanks to Adrian, his final weeks of school were the best ones he’d ever had. No teasing, no name calling, no threats. Keith and Russ kept their mouths shut, and Eric even tried to make conversation with him a few times. He saw Adrian in town every once in awhile. He’d say hello, but what with his birthday, exams and graduation, their meetings were short. He always felt a little high after seeing him, and it would take awhile for him to come down. The day of the graduation, he went to his secret spot, just to read and listen to music, and he saw Adrian again. He tapped him on the shoulder, making him jump. Terry took his earphones out of his ears and put his MP3 player aside. “Hey,” he said. “Jogging again?” Adrian plunked himself on the ground beside him, and shook his head. “No. Just taking King for 39

D. J. Manly a walk.” He pointed at the dog playing in the distance on the path. “He’s a great dog.” “Yeah.” “How old is he?” “Four years old. I have to leave him with my parents during hockey season because I’m never home. How’s school?” “Great, actually. Thanks to you, that is.” “Thanks to me?” “I never thanked you for…” He held up his hand. “Don’t.” Terry looked away. “Can I ask you something?” “You want to know if it’s true, if I’m a…like that?” “No. I wasn’t going to ask you that. I was going to ask you, if you had been teased like that for a long time?” He nodded. “Yeah.” “I’m sorry.” “Don’t be. It’s life. It’s one of the reasons I want to get to hell out of here.” He nodded. “Some people are just ignorant.” “Yeah.” He paused, then said, “I am, you know,” Terry said, looking into his eyes. “I am what they say. I hope you don’t mind.” “It doesn’t matter to me. It’s okay, Terry.” “Is it okay? It doesn’t feel that way when 40

He Scores everyone around you isn’t that way…and they tell you it’s wrong.” He fought back the tears. He didn’t want to cry in front of Adrian. “Terry,” Adrian said, placing a hand on his shoulder. “You have to be proud of who you are. If you’re not proud, then…” he paused, and looked away. “What?” Terry said. He could hardly breathe. Adrian was sitting so close to him, and finally someone was acknowledging who he was, and telling him it was okay to be that way. Adrian looked at him again, and smiled. He stood up. “It’s just that you have to respect yourself, then other people will respect you too. Not a lot of people can stand up and admit who they are, especially when they have everything to lose by it. We all want to fit in, want to be accepted.” Terry narrowed his eyes. “I guess…you’re right.” Adrian nodded. “Have fun at the prom tonight.” “Sure. I’m only going for Eve’s sake. Even if there was someone…well…I couldn’t have taken them.” “Is there someone?” “I don’t know any gay guys. I mean…there’s no one else, not in this town.” “What about Eric?” 41

D. J. Manly “Eric?” Terry’s eyes widened. “Listen, Adrian, I’m the only gay guy in the high school. Eric is a homophobic shit head.” “Eric’s gay.” Adrian said, meeting his gaze. Terry stood up. “No, he isn’t. I assure you. Eric is…” “Eric is terrified. Trust me. He’s in the closet, scared to death, hanging out with two kids he really hates…it’s the best way to hide, hang out with homophobes.” “Why didn’t he just come to me then and tell me since he knows…?” “…because he’s not as brave as you are, Terry. You’re a hero.” He put up a hand, and called his dog. “See you later.” Terry watched him go, in shock. A hero? When he told Eve what Adrian had said about Eric that night later at the prom, she looked at him as if he’d just dropped a bomb. “Eric? Gay?” “That’s what he said?” “How would he know that?” “I don’t know. Maybe Eric told him. Let’s dance.” “It’s true, he’s never said fag jokes to you, but he hangs out with the worst…” “Yeah, well, I don’t know. Anyway, Eric’s not even here. Sorry, Eve, I know you like him.” “He wouldn’t have danced with me anyway.” 42

He Scores “Yeah, well maybe it’s not for the reason you thought.” Terry lifted an eyebrow. Eve looked at him and nodded. “Anyway, forget about Eric. I would have loved to have asked Adrian to the prom.” “Yeah, well you know what?” Terry made a comical face, “Me too.” “We could have shared him,” Eve whispered, giggling. Terry started to laugh. “Yeah, you could have lost your virginity while I watched.” Eve hugged him tighter, and giggled again. “Or he could have taken yours while I watched.” “Eve!” He pretended to be shocked. “We shouldn’t be talking like this.” “Oh, what the hell. The guy is a hunk and a half, and he’s nice, and sweet, and if he so much as crooked his finger to either one of us, we’d do anything for him. Tonight’s the last time I’ll ever step foot in this dump, so let’s be honest.” He whirled Eve around in his arms, while she laughed. Later that night, they went to Terry’s favourite place by the lake, and spent the rest of the night there, huddled together under a blanket, looking up at the night sky. At eight in the morning, they walked into Monica’s and ordered a huge breakfast. It was over. His high school days were behind him. He was officially an adult, probably 43

D. J. Manly the only eighteen year old virgin in town, and next week, he and Eve would start working in a greasy spoon. And soon, when he put enough money together, he would climb onto that bus, the one which stopped right outside the diner, and leave this place, and never, ever look back. **** He was thinking about that very thing now as the bus pulled out, and he put some more bacon on the grill. Monica was busy taking orders, and Eve was refilling all the napkins holders. They’d been working at Monica’s for over two weeks. They were starting to get the campground crowd now, and breakfast time, especially on the weekends, was hectic. Adrian came in every once in awhile to eat, always smiling and over tipping. He was nice to the residents, indulging them with hockey stories, signing autographs. When he came in this day, Terry found it difficult to keep his mind on things. He was sitting right where he could see him if he craned his neck a bit, and it was damn distracting. When he finished his breakfast and came to the cash to pay, he poked his head in the kitchen. “Hey,” he said. “Hey, yourself,” Terry said, hoping he wasn’t blushing. “I was wondering if you could give me a hand 44

He Scores on the weekend. I need to fix a few things around the farm. I’ll pay you, of course.” Terry looked at him, surprised. “Me?” “Yes. If you want to. No pressure.” “Yeah, I want to. I mean, I can help you. You don’t have to pay me.” “Terry,” he pointed at the grill suddenly, “I think your…ah…hamburger is…” “Oh shit,” Terry said. He had burnt the meat. “I’ll let you get back to work. Call me.” “I don’t have your number.” “Oh, sorry,” he laughed. “I’ll write it down and leave it with Eve, okay?” “Sure.” “Call me Friday night. What time do you get off?” “Five.” “You want to stay up at my place, get an early start Saturday morning?” “Ah…stay at…ah…yeah…sure.” Terry nodded nervously. “Okay, I’ll pick you up Friday at five o’clock.” He was gone, just like that, and Terry spent the next two days walking around in a dream. “He really asked you to sleep there tonight?” Eve echoed, as she watched Terry putting his overnight bag down on the floor in the corner of the kitchen. 45

D. J. Manly “That’s what he said.” “What did you tell your mom?” “I told her I was doing some work up at the Carter place this weekend, and that Adrian Vincent had asked me to stay up there with him.” “And that was okay?” “I am eighteen. She didn’t bat an eye. Why should she say anything?” Eve shrugged. “Lucky you. Well, have fun.” “I’m supposed to be working, not having fun.” Terry grinned. Eve didn’t return it. She just shook her head. “You have a crush on him. I’m sure he’s straight.” “It’s not like that, okay?” Terry muttered. “Eve, I swear that you’re jealous that I…” Suddenly Monica rushed into the kitchen, and interrupted them. “Did you hear what happened?” “What?” Eve and Terry both said at the same time. “Eric Dawson, they just found his body in the lake. They’re saying its suicide. Apparently, he left a note on his computer.” Eve and Terry were stunned. Eve shed a few tears, and all Terry could do was think about what Adrian had said. Was it true? Had Eric been in the closet? Was that why he killed himself? Maybe he could have done something? Helped him? Shit, but how, he couldn’t even help himself. And Eric 46

He Scores never said more than a few words to him, ever. **** When Terry climbed into Adrian’s truck at five o’clock, Adrian asked him what was wrong. “Is everything alright? You look upset.” “It’s Eric. The one you thought was gay. He’s dead.” Adrian looked at him. “Dead?” “He killed himself.” “I’m sorry.” “We weren’t even friends.” Adrian nodded. “Just the same.” “I…maybe I could have helped him.” “How?” “I don’t know, I…” “Terry, you couldn’t have done anything, unless he came to you, and he didn’t.” Adrian put the truck in drive, and they rode silently the rest of the way. King came out to meet them as they drove up the driveway. Terry patted his head, and followed Adrian inside. “You can have any room you want,” Adrian said, leading him upstairs. Terry chose the one on the end, a small room, with a view of the back. He put his bag down and sat on the bed. Adrian stood watching him for a moment. Terry looked at him. “Is that my fate as well, dead at the bottom of the lake?” 47

D. J. Manly “Why would you think that?” “I’ve felt like doing that sometimes.” Adrian walked in, and sat down next to him on the bed. “But you didn’t. You didn’t do that, Terry.” He nodded, searching his eyes. “I can’t hide anymore. I feel as if I could just curl up and die sometimes.” “I understand.” “Do you?” “Yes,” he said. “I do.” He stood up quickly. “When you get settled, come downstairs, supper is on the stove.” Terry nodded. There was no point in bringing Adrian down in all this. He stood up and followed him downstairs. “What are we having?” “Pasta.” “Love it. Great. It smells great.” “It will be ready soon. After supper, I’ll show you the stuff that needs to be done. I really appreciate you coming out here to help me fix it.” “No problem, Adrian.” Terry walked into the living room. It was small compared to the kitchen, but equipped with a huge plasma television, certainly a new addition, and a comfortable old sofa, and two chairs. He stopped for a second to study all the pictures on the mantle. There were some old ones, probably of the Carters, then, a few hockey pictures. In one, 48

He Scores Adrian was holding up a trophy on the ice, outfitted in his uniform. He looked younger, surrounded by his team mates. A few others showed him with the Rocket jersey on, arms around other players. At the end, there was one of Adrian out of uniform. He was with another guy, blondish hair, handsome, a few years older. Adrian’s head was tilted towards his, almost touching. Adrian walked into the living room at that moment. “It’s ready.” “Good,” Terry replied, picking up the picture. After a brief hesitation, he said, “Who is that, in the picture with you?” “Pierre Trembly, left winger for the Rockets. Coming?” “He’s handsome,” Terry said, putting it back down carefully. Adrian walked back into the kitchen without commenting. Terry sat opposite Adrian. They ate quietly for awhile. Terry was thinking about Eric, and also about that guy with Adrian in the photograph. Finally, Adrian said “I wish I could make your sadness disappear, Terry. Try not to compare yourself to Eric too much.” “You said Eric was gay,” Terry looked at him. “How did you know that?” “I…I met him, remember, in the diner.” Adrian 49

D. J. Manly picked up some pasta on his folk. “But Eric never had any…mannerisms or…” “You can’t always tell.” “If he was gay, you know, maybe he killed himself because of that. Do you think so? Do you think that…?” “Maybe it was, and maybe not. It could have been something else.” “So, how did you know?” Terry insisted. “Why would you say…?” “It was the way he looked at me.” Adrian met his gaze. “You mean, he looked at you, like he wanted you?” “Not exactly. Just like…I don’t know. It’s hard to explain, like…checking me out.” “Do I …I mean…do I do that?” Adrian smiled. “At times, yes.” “Don’t you mind, don’t you mind that some….some virginal, homosexual misfit is sleeping in your house? Aren’t you afraid that I might…” He stood up, tears in his eyes. “I’m just like Eric. It could be me, Adrian, at the bottom of that lake and…” Adrian got up, came around the table, and took Terry’s arm. He pulled him close, wrapping his arms around him, kissing the top of his head. Terry couldn’t stop shaking. The tears came, and as much as he wanted not to cry in front of Adrian 50

He Scores Vincent, there was no stopping the tears. Terry had no idea how long he’d stayed there wrapped in Adrian’s strong arms, crying his heart out, but finally, he struggled away from him, and walked out onto the porch. A few minutes later, Adrian came out to join him, but he didn’t say anything. He waited for Terry to talk. Terry turned around, giving him a slight smile. “I’m sorry.” “For what?” “Making an idiot of myself.” “You didn’t make an idiot out of yourself. It’s perfectly natural you’d be upset.” “Why are you being so nice to me?” “It’s easy to be nice to you.” “That stuff I said before. You don’t have to be afraid, Adrian. I won’t jump you in the middle of the night or try and crawl into your bed. I…” Adrian laughed. “Terry, I’m not worried. Look at the size of me. Do you really think you could do anything to me I didn’t want you to?” Terry laughed too, embarrassed. “No. Of course not. I can be so…” Suddenly, he felt Adrian’s hand on his arm. He looked down into his eyes. “I want to kiss you. Tell me now if I’m misreading the signs because…” Terry opened his mouth to speak. There were no words. Adrian’s hand tightened on his 51

D. J. Manly forearm, then, he pulled him closer. Terry stumbled into his chest. He couldn’t breathe. Adrian’s mouth came down on his hard, a hand moving up behind his head. His mouth opened to Adrian’s, seeking his probing tongue. He heard himself moan softly inside Adrian’s mouth, pressing his lips harder, never wanting it to end. But it did. Adrian released him, and stepped away. He turned his back for a moment, as if he were trying to collect himself. Terry felt like he was drugged. The taste of Adrian’s mouth still tingled on his. His first kiss, the first time he had ever tasted someone’s mouth. He wanted more. He wanted to kiss him again. “Maybe I shouldn’t have…” Adrian began, turning around again. “I’m sorry. I have no idea what possessed me to do that.” “Sorry? Oh God, don’t be sorry,” Terry pleaded. “Please don’t be sorry. I…kiss me again.” Adrian laughed softly. “Okay, if you want me to. Come a little closer and…” Terry moved up against him. He raised his hands to Adrian’s face. “You are so beautiful. Can it be true? Can it be true that you’re…?” “Don’t talk,” he said, placing his arms around Terry’s waist. His mouth came down on his a second time, a little more demanding, a little scary, but thrilling. He felt it all the way down to his toes, and his cock…well, his cock was 52

He Scores suddenly wide awake. This time when they broke apart, Adrian looked a little anxious. His chest heaved, and he ran his tongue over his lips. “I’ve never been kissed like that before.” “Well, maybe we better stop,” Adrian said. He went back inside. Terry followed him inside, anxiously. “Why? Why do we have to stop?” Adrian began to pick the dirty dishes up off the table. “Why? Well, before it goes too far.” Terry grabbed one of the dishes out of his hands. “I’m not a child.” “I know that, but you’re also not…well…it would be your first time and I…” Terry released the plate. Adrian put it into the sink. “So, that guy…that Pierre, is he your lover?” There was a deep, pregnant silence. “Adrian?” “He was, yes.” Terry’s heart sank. “I see.” He stared at his back. “Adrian?” “Can we talk about something else, please?” “Sure,” Terry said. “Look, let’s do the dishes and…” “I’m sorry,” he said, filling the sink with water. “For kissing me?” “No, not for that. I’m sorry for not being honest with you.” 53

D. J. Manly “You didn’t have to tell me you were gay if that’s what...” Terry touched his shoulder. “I’m just so damn happy to have someone in this town to talk to, someone like me who…I won’t tell anyone.” “That’s just it. I want to tell everyone. They won’t let me.” “Who won’t let you?” “I have to choose between staying in the closet, or playing hockey.” “Why? That’s not fair.” “No, it’s not fair but it’s the way it is. That’s why I don’t know if I can pretend anymore.” He turned the water off. “Look, none of this is your problem so…” “No. Tell me.” Terry urged. “I’ve certainly dumped on you enough.” They walked into the living room. Adrian stood looking out the window. Terry sat on the sofa. “When did you know you were gay?” “When I was twelve years old.” “And the hockey? You always wanted to play that game?” “Oh God, yes. I started playing when I was five years old. It’s like breathing to me. I never came out to anyone, although unlike you, I was in the city, and I could go to the gay districts, get what I needed. No one knew. I was good at it, good in my closet. Then I met Pierre. Like me, he’s in the 54

He Scores closet too. No choice. We fell in love on the road, or, at least, I did. I told him I wanted to come out, and he said he’d do it too, support me, but when it came down to it, he left me high and dry.” “You were going to tell ah…the hockey people together?” “Yes. So, I did…even when he backed out, I went ahead with what I said I was going to do.” “That was brave of you.” “Ha,” he scoffed, “they didn’t think so. I was told to keep it to myself, that the hockey league won’t accept an ‘out’ gay player. They say it’s because the fans aren’t ready for it. Terry,” he said, turning around, “Pierre, and I aren’t the only gay players in hockey. There are others, too scared to say anything…too scared to…” “Why don’t you just say fuck ‘em, and…?” Terry stood up, meeting his gaze. “I’d have to give up the game. I want to come out, but if it means the end of my career then…I’m young. I have a lot of good years left. I don’t think I could…” He stopped. “And now, I have to play with Pierre. He’s in my line, but it’s over between us now…” He stopped. “Fuck. I sound so pathetic. I can’t believe that I…I’m sorry I told you all this and…” Terry placed a hand on his shoulder. “I don’t think I have the answers, Adrian, but I’m here. I’m here, and if I can help you. Maybe all I can do is 55

D. J. Manly listen. You’ve done so much for me. You don’t know how…” Adrian pulled him up against him again. Their mouths met, and Terry surrendered totally to that kiss. After a few seconds, Adrian released him. “It was a bad idea, me asking you to stay here tonight. I should have just…” He threw himself into the chair by the window. Terry’s heart sank. “I really did ask you here to help me fix some stuff, Terry, believe me. I had no ulterior motives. I just didn’t realise how lonely it’s been.” He stood up. “Perhaps it’s better if I take you home, come and pick you up tomorrow.” Terry shook his head. “No. It’s okay. We don’t have to kiss anymore if you don’t want to.” “Oh God,” Adrian said, coming over and placing a hand on Terry’s cheek. He traced his cheek bone with his finger. “You are so sweet, so young and innocent and I…” He withdrew his hand. “You don’t understand, do you, Terry? The problem isn’t that I want to stop kissing you. It’s that, I don’t want to stop kissing you.” “Then don’t,” Terry replied softly, searching his eyes. “Don’t stop kissing me, and don’t send me away tonight. Adrian. I want to…” he swallowed, desire and fear mingling together to cause his words to die in his throat. Adrian met his gaze. Whatever Terry was 56

He Scores unable at that moment to articulate verbally, he did with his eyes. He swept Adrian’s body with his gaze, pausing at his groin, then moving to his feet. Adrian apparently understood the communication because he moved closer again. “Are you sure?” he asked him softly. Terry bit down on his lower lip. “Yes,” he said, his hands shaking. “I’m sure.”

57

D. J. Manly

Chapter Four

I

f Terry ever doubted that there was a difference between being a man, and being a boy, his doubt instantly disappeared when Adrian Vincent took off his clothes. Adrian wasn’t shy. Maybe it was all those times he’d been naked with other hockey players in the locker rooms, or maybe it because he had the most incredibly, beautiful body. All those hard, naked bodies Terry had ogled on the internet could never compare to that. Anyway, after taking his hand and leading him upstairs to the bedroom, he had simply stripped off his clothes without fanfare, while Terry stood in the corner, wondering if this was real, or a dream. Was it finally going to happen? Was he finally going to experience what it was like to make love to a man…and not just any man, a beautiful, sexy, experienced man, with a body which looked as if it had been carved out of granite. The little lamp burning on the night stand was 58

He Scores the only light in the room, but it was just enough to illuminate Adrian’s incredible body. Terry hadn’t realised that he’d moved to the other side of the bed, and backed himself into the corner. He couldn’t stop staring at him, and each time his gaze dipped below his waist, he hastily brought it back up to his face. Adrian smiled at him. “Are you alright? Don’t be embarrassed.” “I’m not…I’m…” Terry laughed slightly, maybe out of nervousness. “Do you want me to help you out of your clothes?” Terry felt a little flushed. “Ah, no. I…” He stopped as Adrian stretched himself out on top of the bed. “Jesus,” he breathed. Adrian looked up at him. “Do you want to touch me?” Terry nodded. “You can’t touch me from over there.” Terry scrambled to take off his t-shirt. He let it drop to the floor. He took off one shoe by pushing the toe of his shoe into the heel, and did the same with the other, his gaze never leaving Adrian’s naked body. And suddenly, he couldn’t hold himself back anymore. He allowed his gaze to move down to Adrian’s cock, which was erect, resting half on his flat stomach. Terry put his hands in front of his groin. He was hard himself, 59

D. J. Manly his cock already leaking, staining his underwear. Adrian held out his hand. “Come here. Don’t be scared. I won’t hurt you.” “I’m not scared, I’m…” Terry moved closer, “a little nervous, I guess.” The right word might have been ‘in awe.’ He was in awe. He placed one knee hesitantly on the bed, and Adrian reached for his hand, and pulled him down on top of him. Adrian kissed his mouth, then, sat up and pressed Terry’s shoulder down to the bed. “Let me help you with these,” he said, undoing the zipper on his pants, and pulling them down over his hips with one strong hand. The underwear came along with them. Terry closed his eyes. He didn’t have time to protest, and as he felt Adrian’s lips on his sex, he didn’t want to. He felt his balls shrink up, and then, that was it, he came. He sat up quickly, embarrassed. He opened his eyes, wiping at himself. “God damn it,” he muttered. Adrian was sitting back on his knees, watching him. “Fuck. Look at me, I’m such a geek, I couldn’t even…” “Shush,” Adrian said. He kissed his mouth gently, and then moved his lips to Terry’s throat, his chest. “It happens to everyone. I’m flattered. You’re just inexperienced, that’s all. Lay back, relax, breathe,” he told him. “We’ll take it nice and 60

He Scores slow. We have all night.” Terry closed his eyes. He felt Adrian’s hand move down to his cock, which was quickly reviving. His lips were moving over one of his nipples, as the hand stroked his cock, his balls. Terry moaned, grabbing some of the blanket in his fist. His cock stiffened more, shivering in ecstasy with every touch of Adrian’s lips. Then, suddenly it was being enveloped, wrapped in the velvet haven of Adrian’s mouth. His tongue was doing incredible things, unimaginable things, to his cock, and Terry cried out something nonsensical, again on the brink, then it stopped. Adrian’s mouth moved back up over to him, then, taking his mouth again. Terry moaned against him, rearing up, feeling suddenly aggressive. He pushed Adrian down on his back, and looked down into those eyes, which were blue, almost smoky colour, and ground his mouth down into his. He wanted to touch him so much now, touch him all over. He threw off his fear, his inhibitions, and began to move his mouth down to his chin, his throat, pausing to kiss his nipples, then his navel. His hand reached for his sex. He lightly fingered it. “Don’t be afraid. You won’t hurt me,” Adrian urged. “What do you want to do with it?” “Put it in my mouth.” “Go ahead.” “I don’t know…” Terry began. “I won’t be 61

D. J. Manly good.” “Right now, I’ll stand for mediocre.” Terry grinned. “Okay.” He lowered his mouth, and tasted his cock. He let his tongue slide over the shaft. This earned him a favourable grunt, and he felt encouraged. He wanted so much to please him, but Adrian Vincent was larger than life; his cock, the man, the hockey legend. It was intimidating to say the least. But somehow, his instincts, his needs took command, and he closed off his mind, and let his feelings take control. He took Adrian’s cock into his mouth and discovered heaven. With a few, well meaning instructions from Adrian, he brought him to orgasm. Several seconds later, Adrian returned the favour by jacking him off with his hand, and Terry came too. They both laid there for a few minutes, then, Terry turned to Adrian and let his hand wander over his chest and down to his stomach. “You touching me, it felt so good…like,” he paused, then, kissed his mouth, “like I’d only just begun to live. You are the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen. I never dreamt my first time would be with someone like you.” “You’ll have many more to compare me with one day.” “I’ve seen lots of naked men…on the internet.” Adrian laughed, looking into his eyes. “Ah.” Terry kissed his mouth again softly, then with a 62

He Scores little more intent. “I want…everything,” he told him, touching his hair. “I’ve created a monster.” “I want you to…to fuck me.” Terry waited for a change of expression in Adrian's eyes. Adrian just looked at him. “Are you shocked?” “No.” “Would it be alright?” “Why don’t we just take things as they come, okay?” “You don’t think I’m ready for that?” Terry wrapped Adrian up in his arms. He let his hands move down to his ass. He was hard again. “How old were you when…?” “Fifteen,” he said. “I was an early bloomer.” Terry looked him in the eye. “Did it hurt?” “Yes. It hurt like hell.” Terry stuck his chin out. “I’m not afraid.” He laughed, pushing him away. He sat up. “I know, but it’s a big thing. It should be with someone you…well, care about…” Terry put a hand on his shoulder. “I care about you.” “You know what I mean,” he said. “I have to take a piss. Maybe we should get some sleep now.” “You’re going to stay here with me, aren’t you?” 63

D. J. Manly Adrian stood up. He glanced at him over his shoulder. “Of course.” A few minutes later, Adrian crawled back into bed beside him, and turned out the lamp. He pulled Terry close, and put an arm around him. “Goodnight.” Terry smiled, closed his eyes, and snuggled down close to him. “Goodnight, Adrian.” **** When Terry opened his eyes, Adrian was sleeping on his back, the blankets had been thrown off, and his cock was hard. Terry unconsciously licked his lips. He’d loved touching him last night. He’d loved it when Adrian had taken his cock into his mouth. He was hard himself, just looking at him lying there like that. With a smile, he moved his lips over Adrian’s stomach, a wave of muscles, and down to the tip of his cock. He ran his tongue over it, then, wrapped his lips around the head. Um. God, he tasted incredible. He crawled in between his thighs, and took Adrian’s cock deeper into his mouth. Adrian stirred, moaned something, and thrashed a bit as Terry began to move his mouth up and down his shaft, holding his balls in one hand, the base of his cock in the other. He did as Adrian had taught him last night, and he checked 64

He Scores Adrian’s face every once and awhile to assure himself that he was doing it right. Adrian’s face contorted, and he moaned deeply in his throat. At one point, he whimpered, “God, yes…Jesus,” and Terry smiled to himself, redoubling his effort. Finally, Adrian began to beg him to stop. He pushed him back, and shot up in the air. Terry sat there, watching him, pleased with his efforts. Adrian laughed when he finally caught his breath. “Devil,” he said, pulling him down on top of him. “You ambushed me.” They kissed deeply, Terry running his hands freely over Adrian’s firm, taut torso. The kissing intensified, Adrian’s hand on Terry’s cock, making him go half mad with desire. Terry’s breathing grew shallow. He tumbled onto his back, allowing Adrian to take the lead. His cock was inside Adrian’s mouth again, his balls being gently fondled. He closed his eyes tightly, his hips moving. Adrian backed off from his cock, laughing. “Be still, nut,” he told him. “Oh, I can’t, I can’t,” Terry moaned. “God, what you do to me.” Adrian pressed his hip to the mattress with his hand, and intensified his efforts. Terry felt himself coming. “Stop, stop, I want…I want…damn…” His entire body shuddered its release, this time Adrian didn’t back off. Terry watched, fascinated 65

D. J. Manly as he shot into his mouth. He reached down and touched Adrian’s hair. He sat up, wiping his mouth on the back of his hand. “You…you swallowed it.” He grinned. “Yeah. Don’t try that at home, kiddies.” “Ha, ha.” “It takes practise.” “Teach me. I want to swallow yours,” he said, sitting up. Adrian laughed. “All in good time. Let’s take a shower, and get something to eat, okay?” “Adrian.” Terry watched him as he got out of bed. God, he had a beautiful body. “Yeah?” He looked at him over his shoulder. “Why don’t you want to…I mean, is it because I’m not…well…I’m not exactly gorgeous or anything but…” “Terry,” Adrian said, leaning over now and took his chin in his hand. “You are gorgeous, sweet, sexy. Do you know how hard it is for me not to fuck you?” “You mean, you want to?” He met his gaze. Adrian released his chin. “Sure, I want to,” he said. “But, it’s a big step and you have to be ready.” “Ready?” Terry jumped out of bed and followed him to the bathroom. “I’ve been ready for…Adrian.” 66

He Scores Adrian turned the shower on, then, looked at him. “What?” “I want it to be you.” He looked at him, then, let his gaze slide down over him. “I want it to be you.” Adrian nodded. “Get in the shower, will ya?” Terry smiled, and hopped in. Adrian stepped in behind him and closed the shower door. Terry felt the soap touch his shoulder, then slide down his back to his ass. He closed his eyes as Adrian’s hand slipped in between his ass cheeks, soaping him there. When a finger touched his anus, he experienced the most pleasurable sensation. The finger delved deeper, Adrian’s other hand reaching around to slide up and down his shaft. He was hard again. He let his head loll back on Adrian’s broad shoulder as Adrian’s finger began to move around his opening, then push in slightly, out, then in, the muscles there putting up resistance. This delicious feeling seized him, his cock lifting and lengthening in Adrian’s capable hand. “You have a great cock,” Adrian mouthed beside his ear, then planted small kisses there on his skin. The finger had made progress, pushing past the first set of muscles, the movement more fluid. In, then out, then in again. “Oh God,” Terry moaned. “God, yes, Adrian, fuck me. Fuck me.” He chuckled softly from behind him. “Not yet,” he said. “Just close your eyes, feel it, and realise 67

D. J. Manly that that’s nothing compared to a cock.” “I want your cock,” he heaved, “your cock inside me.” “Terry,” Adrian groaned, removing his finger. Terry moved around in his arms. He lifted his rough jaw, kissed his throat, then, followed down to his chest. His hand reached for his cock, hard, ready, the other hand allowed his finger to flirt with one of his erect nipples. “Please,” he pleaded. “God, Terry,” he croaked, taking a step backwards, “you’re driving me out of my mind.” He wiped the water out of his face, pushed his damp hair back. Terry watched his chest heave, saw the desire in his eyes. “Look at me. Look at my cock. You’ve done this to me. So finish the job. Please, baby.” He met his gaze, reaching out to take his cock in his hand. “Terry, it’s a big responsibility to…” he stopped. Terry saw him swallow the lump in his throat. He dipped down to his knees, and took his cock into his mouth. He tasted it for a few minutes, letting his tongue and lips savour it, then he stood back up, looked into his eyes. “You’re more scared that I am.” He reached out and touched his jaw. “You’re scared to hurt me.” “It’s more than that,” he said, opening the door and getting out of the shower. 68

He Scores “What then?” Terry turned off the water. He sighed. “It’s a life altering step, Terry. You’re young.” “I’m a man. You’re not much older than I am. You’re only what…twenty one?” “Twenty,” he said, tilting his head. “And you think you’re so much more worldly than I am?” He smiled, but he didn’t say anything. “Can we drop it for now? I’m not saying no, but…” Terry nodded. “Okay. Come back in and take your shower. I won’t bother you.” “Terry,” he said, “you’re not bothering me.” He got back into the shower. Terry turned on the water, and let him under the spray. Terry watched him as he quickly washed. He took his own shower, and then joined him at breakfast. Adrian made waffles, and coffee. They sat there not talking for awhile. Finally, Terry stood up. “Alright, stud,” he said, “how about you show me what needs fixing, and we get to it?” He laughed. “Stud?” Terry’s face erupted into laughter, as Adrian took a swat at him, and chased him outside. They were still laughing as Adrian led Terry down to the beat up old barn. “I want to fix it,” he said. “I picked up the material the other day.” “Jesus,” Terry replied. “Are you planning on raising chickens?” 69

D. J. Manly He grinned. “No.” “Then?” “I don’t know, but it needs fixing, and the corral. I wouldn’t mind a horse.” “Horse? Aren’t you a city slicker?” “Never mind. Are you going to help me, or not?” “That’s what I’m here for.” **** They worked most of the morning tearing off all the old broken pieces of wood from the old barn. Terry felt invincible in the warm sunshine, pausing to look over at Adrian every once in awhile in his loose fitting saddle shorts and oversized t-shirt. It was almost one o’clock when Adrian announced that he was hungry. “Want to drive into town and eat at the diner?” Frankly, no. He didn’t want to drive into town. He wanted to stay out here, all alone with Adrian, forever. He felt different today, strong, proud of who he was for the first time, and a little crazy. His cock had been hard half the morning, and all he could think about was getting Adrian back into that bed. He was looking up at the bedroom window when Adrian asked him again if he wanted to go and eat something. “Can we eat here?” He met Adrian’s gaze, then 70

He Scores again looked up at the window. A slow smile spread over Adrian’s face. “Terry?” He lifted an eyebrow. Terry blushed a little. Adrian knew what he was thinking, but he didn’t care. He wanted him to know. He wanted him to know how much he wanted him. “I’m not very hungry…for ah…food.” He moved closer to him, and took his hand. “We did do a lot of work today. There’s always tomorrow, you know.” Adrian looked down into his eyes. “I guess I could find…something in the house.” “Um,” Terry nodded. “I don’t want to share you…with anyone right now. Okay?” “Okay.” He squeezed his hand, and they walked together into the house. The minute they were inside the kitchen, Terry pushed him against the wall, and pulled on his t-shirt, lifting it over his head. Adrian laughed. Terry let his gaze trail over his chest, then, thoughtfully rubbed his thumb over one of his nipples. “You have a great chest, great definition. And your nipples are…um…” He teased it with the tip of his tongue, then, did the other one, while fumbling with his shorts. He pushed them down over his hips and grabbed his cock in his fist, stroking it. He heard Adrian’s breathing speed up. “How many men have you fucked?” 71

D. J. Manly Adrian let his head go back against the wall. “I…I…ah…yes…yes…Terry, that’s good. Keep stroking it like that…umm…did I teach you that?” “Probably. So, answer me. How many men have you fucked?” “I don’t know,” he grunted. “A lot.” “Have they ever fucked you?” “Sometimes.” His chest heaved, then, he slammed his fist into the wall as Terry began to jerk his cock with his fist. “I want to do that too. I want to fuck you.” He let his tongue lap his nipple again. “Terry, stop…stop…” he begged. “You’re ready now,” Terry whispered against his ear. “Take me upstairs…take me upstairs and make me a man. Come on, Adrian, please,” he begged. Adrian reached out and touched his hair. He leaned down and kissed his mouth, gently at first, then more demandingly. He broke away from him, and nodded. “If that’s what you want.” “It’s what I want. I want you,” he said. “I’m not afraid.” He smiled. “Okay. Go upstairs. I’ll be there in a minute.” Terry reached up and kissed his mouth again, then left the kitchen. As he climbed the stairs, he realised that he’d be coming down them a different person, a man finally. God, he felt so 72

He Scores lucky, a little bit of fear, but the need, the craving was so much more overpowering. He took off his clothes, and lay down on the bed on his stomach. The warm sunshine beat down on his buttocks through the window. Then he heard Adrian’s voice, strong, deep, so male. “Roll over on your back.” “But I thought,” he said, then, paused, stifling a moan. Adrian stood there, naked, his hair loose. In his hands was a tube of something and some condoms. “I want you to see my face, I want to look at you when I’m inside you.” Terry melted. Oh God. “Okay,” he managed. “Put your knees up, spread your legs.” The nerves were back. He began to tremble. Adrian knelt between his knees. He opened the tube and spread some gel on his fingers. “Lube. It’s a little cold, but it will get warmer. I’m going to…” “I know,” Terry nodded. When Adrian’s hand moved there between his cheeks, and began to rub the lube on his anus, Terry’s teeth began to chatter. His cock stiffened even more as he watched him, his finger going deeper up inside of him. “Oh God.” “You alright?” Terry grabbed him around the neck and kissed him deeply. He was more than alright. 73

D. J. Manly Adrian met his eyes. “Put the condom on me.” He had to help him tear it open Terry’s fingers were shaking so badly. He finally opened it and together they rolled it onto Adrian’s cock. God, it was sexy. He was so sexy. Adrian smiled at him. He kissed him hotly, his mouth, his neck, both his nipples, then down to his cock, his balls. Terry groaned, his body undulating. Then suddenly, Adrian grabbed his hips. He pulled him down some on the bed, lifting his legs over his broad shoulders. “It’s going to hurt at first, just…we’ll go slow.” Terry let his head go back. He closed his eyes. When Adrian began to enter him, the pain was intense, searing. He chocked back the tears. Adrian would stop, then, begin again, going a little deeper, then deeper still. Terry cried out. He never expected such pain. “Relax,” Adrian said, “relax your muscles.” Then something else happened. He couldn’t even pinpoint when. The pain grew into something else, something that seized his entire body, and filled him completely. When Adrian began to move in and out of him, Terry watched his face, and he fell in love. If he hadn’t already fallen, he did at that moment. Terry knew he was holding back, going slow on purpose, trying not to hurt him. “It’s okay,” Terry grunted. “Do it. Fuck me 74

He Scores really like I was…go, let go, baby. God, it feels good. You feel good.” And suddenly, it was like a dam breaking away. Adrian grunted. He grabbed his hips tighter, and began to move, his face transforming into some kind of ecstatic mask. Adrian came, collapsing on top of him with a satisfied moan, and Terry closed his eyes, smiling, kissing his damp shoulder. A few seconds later, Adrian lifted his head and asked him if he were alright. Terry kissed him hotly on the mouth. “Baby. You’ve given me everything.” Tears stung his eyes. “Thank you.” Adrian kissed him back, stroking his hair. “I’m glad you’re alright. I didn’t hurt you too much?” “The pain was nothing compared to the pleasure.” They laid there for the longest time, just cuddling, talking about nonsense, then Adrian made grilled cheese sandwiches and they drank lemonade. Later, they took a walk down by the water. Terry couldn’t take his eyes off him. “You’ll need me tomorrow, right?” Terry asked suddenly, throwing a stone into the water. “If you want to stay,” he said. “I have to go home tomorrow night, or maybe…if you could drive me to the diner early Monday, I…” Adrian laughed. “You need your sleep. Stay 75

D. J. Manly tonight. We’ll work a bit more on the barn, and then I’ll take you back home.” Terry nodded. He never wanted to go home. He wanted to stay up here with him forever. That evening, they stripped off all their clothes and went swimming. They had a great time. Adrian made hot chocolate later that night and they sat near the fire. Terry let his head loll back, his, watching him. Then his gaze went to the picture on the mantle. “So, is it really over, with you and Pierre?” He seemed surprised. “Can we not talk about that?” “Were you…did you love him?” He stood up suddenly. “What’s love?” “Well…” Terry began, then, stopped. “Do you miss him?” There was no answer for a few seconds. Terry held his breath. “It’s over, so it’s better not to…” He turned around, an overly bright smile on his face. “I’ve been bad today. I haven’t worked out at all.” “That’s okay,” Terry said, putting down the chocolate. “I can give you a workout, in bed.” He grinned at him. Adrian crossed the floor, and took his face between his hands. “It’s a deal. I’ll race you upstairs.” “Okay, don’t forget the lube and the condoms,” Terry said, then pushed ahead of him, laughing. 76

He Scores

Chapter Five

A

drian dropped Terry off at Monica’s at precisely seven o’clock Monday morning. Terry had persuaded Adrian to let him stay over Sunday night. He wanted to kiss him before getting out of his truck that morning, but he knew he couldn’t. Everything had changed since they’d gotten back to town. Adrian followed him inside, deciding to stay for breakfast. Terry was humming as he said good morning to Monica. He walked into the kitchen and started the grill. Eve was setting up the tables, and waved to him as he came in. Adrian said hello to her, and she rushed over to his table, pouring some coffee for him. Terry watched Eve fawn over him, and grinned. If only she knew. Adrian was his, and Saturday and Sunday night, he’d had him inside him again. He’d even managed to have him this morning, 77

D. J. Manly which is why they just arrived on time. Adrian ate his breakfast, then, took off. The morning passed quickly as there were a lot of customers. There wasn’t a loll until around three o’clock. Terry went outside in the back and took some air. The week went by slowly. Adrian didn’t come into the diner at all, and he didn’t phone. Terry wanted to call him but thought he’d better wait until Friday. Friday afternoon, Adrian stopped by. Terry came out of the kitchen to see him. He was so happy, he was sure he was gushing. “So,” Adrian said, “are you up for this weekend?” Terry smiled. Oh, he was up alright. “I will need to go home and get my stuff. Pick me up there around seven?” “Sounds good. I’ve been working on the barn. I’ve got the whole left side down.” “Cool. We’ll get at it tomorrow first thing.” Adrian winked at him, and smiled, then, he waved to Eve, and was gone. “So,” Eve said, walking over, “what you got planned for the weekend?” “Helping Adrian.” “Again?” “He’s paying me. We’re trying to fix the barn.” Eve nodded, and walked away.

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He Scores **** Terry spent the next few weeks living for the weekends. Every Friday night, he went up to the old Carter house, and every Monday morning, Adrian drove him back to the diner. It was August when Eve finally told him that ‘people in town were talking.’ “Talking about what?” Terry asked, flipping the burgers on the grill. “You, with that hockey star, up at the old Carter place.” “Now, he’s that hockey star. What happened to Adrian?” Eve came closer to him. “Are you…Terry? Tell me the truth.” “Not here.” When things slowed down and he and Eve were able to go outside, he told her. “We’re in love.” “What?” “In love.” “Give me a break,” she snorted. Terry bristled. “Why is that so hard to…” “He may be fucking you, but he doesn’t love you.” “How in hell do you know?” “Because…and even if he does, he’s not going to stay around here.” 79

D. J. Manly “He’s fixing up the house, and the barn and…” “Yes, to sell it.” Terry swallowed. “No, he…” “Terry, if you spent any time in town anymore, you would have seen a picture of the old Carter house up on the poster at the real estate office. It’s for sale.” Terry didn’t know what to say. He lashed out at the only person he could. “You’re a fucking liar. You’re just jealous because he’s not fucking you, that’s all.” “You’ve lost your mind,” she accused. “Not only is he using you, you’re going to let him break your heart.” Terry pinched his lips together. “He’s going to break your heart, Terry,” she said stiffly. “And don’t expect to cry on my shoulder.” She marched back inside, leaving Terry shaking like a leaf. It couldn’t be. He couldn’t have put the house up for sale. “Monica,” he said, walking back inside the restaurant, “something’s come up. Can I go have the rest of the day off?” “Ah, sure,” she said. “I can handle the cooking by myself. It’s Tuesday.” He nodded, took off his apron, and threw it aside. He walked home, and grabbed his bike. He biked out to the old farmhouse, practically out of breath when he arrived. He could hear the 80

He Scores banging of a hammer off in the distance. Adrian was out working on the roof of the barn. Terry looked up at him when he rounded the corner. He was balanced on the roof of the barn, pounding a nail into an old plank. He watched him silently for awhile. God, they’d had so much fun together, not only in bed, but Adrian had become his best friend. He’d become his entire world. “Hey,” he said suddenly. Adrian looked down at him, surprised. “Hey. What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be working?” “I begged off.” “Ah, slacker,” he teased, coming down off the roof. “Well, time for a break anyway. Want some lemonade?” Terry followed him into the house. “No, thanks.” He watched him as he downed some lemonade directly from the pitcher. Some of it ran down his chin and dripped onto his sweat drenched t-shirt. He wanted to rip it off. He wanted to…His mouth was watering, his cock hard, and he wanted to cry for some reason. “What is it?” Adrian asked, putting the pitcher down. “Oh, I know,” he said, snapping his fingers. “I owe you some money. Wait, I’ll…” “No,” Terry said, reaching out and taking his arm. He couldn’t bear it if he paid him. “Is it true? This place…you’re going to sell it?” 81

D. J. Manly He shrugged. “Well, yeah. That’s why I’m trying to fix it up, for my mother really. She…” He met his gaze. “I thought you said your mother gave you this house?” “Yes, if I wanted it, but I can’t live here. Hockey season…” “You’re going to play hockey again?” He nodded. “I signed the new contract last week.” “Then you are leaving?” “Not right away.” “When were you…?” Terry took a breath, swallowing the pain. “When were you planning on telling me this?” “I just assumed that you…” “Well,” he snapped, “you assumed wrong.” There was a dead silence. “Terry.” “I guess you made your choice. You’ll stay in the closet and play your fucking stupid game, and…” “It’s not a fucking, stupid game,” Adrian protested. “And what about this Pierre guy, the one who betrayed you and…?” He looked away. “Hasn’t this summer meant anything to you, or was it just passing time?” He pushed the tears away. 82

He Scores Adrian looked at him. “Terry, we’re friends.” “Friends?” “Of course. What else did you…?” He stopped. “I know how it is, with the first one, it’s…” “Oh fuck you, Adrian,” he muttered, tears spilling down his cheeks. “Fuck you!” He turned on his heel and ran outside. Adrian was on his heels. He caught up to him just as Terry picked his bicycle up off the ground. “Don’t be like this, Terry. Let’s talk about…” “There is fuck all nothing to talk about, and don’t touch me,” he said, hopping on his bike and moving past him. When he was on the road, he began to peddle hard. He looked back once to see that Adrian was still standing there at the top of the little hill, watching him. **** When he got home, he ran upstairs and slammed the door. He lay down on his bed, and closed his eyes. He cried bitter tears, then got up, and went to his stash of money, and began to count it. He would finish out his summer job, then, he was getting to hell out of this town, and never coming back. If he thought Adrian was going to try and call him, he didn’t. However, Adrian did leave an envelope with his mother one day while he was at 83

D. J. Manly work. Terry grabbed it from her, and flew upstairs, tearing it open as he closed the door. He took out a single sheet of paper, and a check. The note was short and simple. It said: “Dear Terry, I hope there are no hard feelings. Here is the money I owe you for the work you did. I hope we can still be friends. Adrian.” “Friends,” Terry mouthed, looking at the check, whose amount was far greater than he knew he was owed. Did this mean he was gone already? Had he left? He hadn’t seen him at the diner. Suddenly, he felt quite desperate. He came downstairs and asked his mother if he could borrow the car. “Sure,” she said. “Bring it back in one piece.” He made a face, and took the car keys. He drove out to the old farm, parked the car on the road below, and walked up the driveway. He knocked at the door, and waited with baited breath until he opened the door. Adrian looked surprised. “Terry?” “Yeah. Can I come in?” “Sure,” he said, holding the door open. “I won’t stay long. Apparently, people are gossiping in the town. You know, the town faggot hanging out with a hockey player. Probably think I’m trying to corrupt you.” Adrian looked at him, pursing his lips. “You’re not the town faggot. Stop talking like that.” 84

He Scores “Okay, then, the town fairy.” He laughed sharply. “Did you get the money I left you?” “Yes, it’s too much.” “It’s okay. I can afford it. Don’t worry.” He walked into the living room, Terry followed, trying to focus his attention on anything, other than him. “I want to apologise.” “You? Why?” “I realised that…well…you never promised me anything, and I had no right to expect…” He paused. “It’s just that I…” Adrian moved to him and took him into his embrace. He held him, stroking his hair, then, he released him. “I understand.” Terry nodded. He couldn’t speak. “I’m leaving Monday.” “Okay.” Terry tried to control the trembling inside of him. “And going where?” “Ah, well, my condo is in Montreal. I live there when I’m not on the road with the team. I’ve got to beef up my training.” He laughed. “I’ve been lazy. Then there’s training camp. It starts soon.” Terry nodded again. “I see.” “Hey, if you’re ever in Montreal, well…stop by.” He walked over to the phone table, and scribbled an address on a piece of paper. “Here you go,” he said, handing it to him. 85

D. J. Manly “Really?” Terry brightened, taking it into his hand. “Sure. Anytime.” “I was going to go to Toronto, but Montreal is more fun I guess.” “The gay scene’s better.” “I don’t speak French though.” “You’ll pick it up, plus a lot of people speak English there. It would be an adventure.” “Yeah, I guess.” “Terry,” he looked at him, “it doesn’t mean that you and I…I don’t want you to get the wrong idea.” “I know that. Don’t worry. I won’t become your stalker.” Adrian laughed slightly. “Okay.” “And what about…ah…” he was finding it difficult to say his name, “this Pierre guy?” “We’ve talked on the phone a few times.” “And?” “I don’t know. He says he still loves me.” “That I can believe.” “I guess I pushed him a little hard.” He sighed. “We’ll talk when I get home.” “And you love him?” He nodded. “Yes.” Terry felt that clear through to his heart. “So, guess you’ll stay in the closet and play hockey?” “Basically, yeah. I don’t have a choice. I’m an 86

He Scores idealist, but I guess realism has a way of slapping you back to reality every once in awhile.” Terry held out his hand. He had to leave now. He was going to break down again, and he didn’t want to. Adrian took his hand. “Bye, Terry.” Terry squeezed his hand, then, he pulled Adrian against him and held him, kissing his hair, fighting the tears. “You don’t know what you’ve given me. I’ll never forget you.” Adrian hugged him back. “I won’t forget you either, Terry.” Terry released him, and turned away. He walked straight through the kitchen and out the door, not aware that he was running, until he arrived at his car, out of breath. He got in, started the engine, and drove slowly down the road. He fought the urge to look back at the house. When he got home, he sat alone in the driveway, the address Adrian had given him, scrunched up in his fist. He was all grown up now. Adrian had helped him to do that. He had showed him there was nothing wrong with being who he was, but he couldn’t be that person here in Norwich. Whether it was Montreal, or Toronto, he had to put Adrian Vincent out of his mind, and out of his heart. Adrian was in love with another man. It was over. **** 87

D. J. Manly Eve took pity on Terry the day Adrian left town. She walked over to him in the kitchen at Monica’s, and hugged him. “What was that for?” he asked. “Nothing, just because.” “I need to apologise to you. I basically ignored you while Adrian was here, and…” “You don’t have to apologise,” she shook her head. “If I’d had something that good to distract me, I would have forgotten all about you too.” She giggled. He swatted her. “Is that right?” “Are you alright?” He nodded. “I guess I’ll have to be. It wasn’t Adrian’s fault. I wanted him. He was being a friend, that’s all, and I read far too much into it. He never took advantage of me, Eve. Honest.” “Well, we all have to get our hearts broke sometimes. Was it worth it?” “Oh yeah,” he moaned. She laughed. “Anyway, I’m jealous.” “I know.” “So, are you still thinking of leaving here?” “I gave Monica my notice yesterday. Another six weeks, and I’m gone.” “Where to?” “Montreal, maybe.” “Montreal. Wow!” “Want to come?” 88

He Scores She shook her head. “No. I’m not brave like you.” He shrugged. “Well, invitation is open, if you change your mind.” “Okay, thanks.” * * * ** TWO YEARS LATER… Terry shoved Louis away from him playfully as he pushed up to the bar, craning his neck to see the television over head. “Stop,” he protested, “I’m trying to watch the game.” “What do you care about a stupid hockey game?” Terry indicated that he wanted a beer to the bartender, and glanced back at the screen. “It’s the Rockets. It’s the third period, and it’s tied.” “There’s enough testosterone on that ice to kill a horse,” Louis laughed, thinking he was being funny. Terry wrinkled up his nose at him. “What?” “Nothing,” he snuggled up behind him. “Let’s go back to my place and…” “Shit,” Terry said, “did you see that?” He pointed to the screen. “In the penalty box again. I swear that ref has it out for…” “Terry!” Louis growled. 89

D. J. Manly “Not tonight,” Terry picked up his beer. “I’ve got an exam tomorrow. And I have to work late at Larry’s.” “You should quit that job.” “I can’t afford to, and my rent’s going up again. Can you believe it?” “Move in with me?” “Not right now.” Suddenly, a roar went up in the bar. “Shit, what did I miss?” “Adrian Vincent scored on a rebound shot,” someone told him. “Yes!” He got up off the stool and danced around. Louis shook his head. “You’re pathetic.” He laughed. “They’re going to win. I’d beg, steal and borrow to go to the game Saturday night.” “I could get us tickets maybe.” “You can’t get shit, Louis.” Terry punched him, finishing his beer. “I’m going. I got to get up early. See you later.” He walked the three blocks to his apartment building, and turned on the game the minute he got in the door. The Rockets won. He turned off the set and climbed into the bed. It seemed that he lived to catch glimpses of Adrian on television, never missing a game when the Rockets played. Of course, he couldn’t avoid 90

He Scores catching glimpses of Pierre Trembly either. That was the disadvantage. He had left Norwich for Montreal, like he planned. It had been a lot tougher than he’d thought making it on his own. He was taking courses at the University part time, and waiting tables in a gay bar. He lived in a small, sometimes roach plagued two room apartment, and he struggled with his French. But he was free. He had friends, and he had lovers, and Adrian, well Adrian lived less than a few miles away, although he’d never had the nerve to knock on his door. It was weird, how the thought that Adrian lived nearby brought him comfort. And when he felt especially lonely, he took that little scrap of paper out, and stared at Adrian’s address. **** Friday night was his only night off, and it was the night he usually let loose and had fun. Louis, his friend, and sometimes lover, called it “his whoring night” and he guessed that was a good way to put it. He had spent so many years hiding, that it felt damn good not to do that anymore. Montreal was a great city, and he had fallen in love with the mix of cultures and smells, and people. Terry went out this particular Friday night in 91

D. J. Manly late May, ready to celebrate. It was a beautiful evening, and he dressed in his black leather pants, that he’d put on his credit card, and a silky white shirt it had taken him months to pay for, and went out. He met some people he knew at Shivers, a rather raunchy bar parked on a side street in the village. There was a great back room where just about anything could happen sexually, and the dance floor was always packed with half dressed hunks gyrating to the music. Andy, one of his friends, who was hanging out with him at the bar suddenly said, ‘Hey, Terry, that’s Adrian Vincent, isn’t it?” Terry just about choked on his drink. “Where?” he said, searching the dance floor. “Over there, by the door, see.” Terry followed his finger. His heart began to thud in his chest. It was Adrian. You couldn’t miss him. He was so tall and broad shouldered. His hair looked a little longer, and he had a close cropped beard, but it was him. “Don’t you know him? Didn’t you say you met him once?” “Yes, once,” he said quietly, swallowing. He couldn’t believe it. He couldn’t believe that Adrian was here at Shivers. “He’s a hunk. Why don’t you go say hello? Introduce me? I didn’t know that he was gay.” 92

He Scores “Ah, me neither. Come on,” Terry said, shrugging as if it were of no consequence. “I’ll introduce you.” His heart was hammering in his chest as he approached. Some guy was already standing in front of Adrian, cruising him. “Hi, Adrian,” Terry said, moving forward. Adrian paused, and looked at him. After a few seconds, recognition dawned on his face, and he said, “Terry? Holy shit, how are you?” The guy who was cruising him, moved off. Adrian reached out his hand, and pulled him closer. Terry could smell the alcohol on his breath. Adrian ran his gaze over him. “Wow, you’ve changed. I hardly recognized you. You look great.” It’s true, he’d changed. Filled out a bit, got his ear pierced, streaked his hair some. Nothing drastic. “Thanks.” Terry tried to keep himself from shaking. “This is my friend, Andy.” “Hey, man,” Adrian said, nodding at him. “I love you. You’re a great hockey player.” Terry hid a smile. He doubted if Andy had ever seen a hockey game. “Thanks,” Adrian told him, but he was looking at Terry. Terry couldn’t help but look back. He was getting lost in those eyes, those familiar, beautiful blue eyes. 93

D. J. Manly Andy cleared his throat. “I see someone over there I know. See you guys later.” “So, what have you been up to?” Adrian asked him. “Why didn’t you tell me you were here in Montreal?” Terry shrugged. “Didn’t want to be a nuisance, I guess. Make you think I was your stalker.” He laughed. Adrian smiled. “So, how are you?” “Feeling great.” “Why aren’t you celebrating with the team? You won the game tonight.” He shrugged. “Looking for a different kind a party I guess.” Terry swallowed. “I see. What about Pierre?” “Fuck Pierre,” he said, grabbing his hand and moving forward. “Let’s get a drink, then, go dance.” He was completely swept away, being with Adrian again. It rendered him totally under his spell. He hadn’t realised how much it would hurt to see him again, his first love, his only love. Adrian drank a lot, and they danced to the erratic beat of tribal drums, and electric guitars. In his tight jeans and navy shirt, which was half open, he had become the center of attention. The more he drank, the more he moved his hips provocatively on the dance floor. He was revelling 94

He Scores in the attention. It wasn’t long until most of the guys in the bar realised who he was, and everyone wanted to be close to him. Terry eventually bowed out and went to the bar to get a drink. He was surprised when Adrian came up to the bar a few minutes later and put an arm around him. “Where’d you go?” “I was in the way,” Terry laughed. Adrian was leaning on him, and he could smell the booze, and the sweat. “Want to get out of here?” Terry glanced at him. “Really? Where do you want to go?” “Back to my place?” Terry froze. Did he want to go back to his place? Yes, oh yes…God yes, but… “I don’t know. I…” “Come on, for a drink,” he said, with a grin. “Okay, but you don’t look like you need anymore to drink.” Adrian didn’t pay any attention. He took his hand and led him outside. He hailed a taxi, and they rode quietly in the back seat, Adrian looked over at him with a smile every once in awhile. When they had finally stopped in front of a high rise condominium near the Olympic stadium, Terry was super-conscious of the fact that Adrian had his hand on his thigh. Adrian got out, and paid the driver. He slung an arm around Terry’s 95

D. J. Manly waist and pulled him closer as they went into the building. His hold was intense, and Terry knew exactly where Adrian was headed. They took the elevator to the fifth floor, and Terry murmured, “Five hundred and nine.” Adrian stopped. He moved away from him and jingled his keys in his hand. When Terry realised that Adrian was looking at him, he muttered, “I memorized the address.” “Why didn’t you come see me then?” “I told you,” Terry said, hesitantly, “I didn’t want to be your stalker.” It was as good of an excuse as possible. The truth was, he was afraid to get his heart broken. Adrian laughed, then, stumbled as he turned around and began to walk, continuing down the hallway. Terry reached out to steady him, but he’d already righted himself. “I’m a hockey player, remember,” he scoffed, pushing Terry’s hand away, “we have good balance.” He put the key in the door after a few attempts, opened it, and stood aside. “Here we are, home sweet home.” “Wow,” Terry said, walking in. It was one big room. Galley kitchen at the end, table and two chairs, sofa, huge television, stereo, and bar. The bed was over in the corner of the room, sheltered by a room divider, and raised on a platform. Terry tried not to pay too much attention to it, but it was like an elephant in the room. Everything was 96

He Scores wood, the floors, and the walls. The kitchen was all stainless steel. “You like it?” He threw his keys on the coffee table. “Yeah. Who wouldn’t?” “What do you want to drink?” “Ah, just water. I drank enough tonight,” Terry said, glancing around. No pictures on the wall. Adrian walked to the kitchen, and came back with some water. “Sit down, make yourself at home. Tell me everything.” Terry sat on the sofa, the water in his hand. He knew he was shaking, and he didn’t want to spill water on the sofa. “I ah…well…I took your advice and came here, instead of going to Toronto.” He didn’t tell him that he came here because he knew he’d be in the same city, or how many times he’d walked by this condo, hoping to catch a glimpse of him. “I’m doing courses at Concordia, and working in a bar. It’s a little tough, money wise but I’m living my life, you know.” “I would have helped you if you…” “No. You’re not my keeper, Adrian. You already gave me so much.” “I’ve missed you.” “Have you?” Terry put the water down. “I never heard from you.” “I didn’t think you…anyway, it was better that I didn’t…you know.” He undid the buttons on his 97

D. J. Manly shirt. Terry licked his lips, and focussed on the floor. “Nice ah…it’s natural wood, right?” “Terry.” Terry looked up at him. He was undoing the zipper on his pants. Terry stood up. “What are you…doing?” He shrugged. “Don’t you want to? You wanted me once, couldn’t get enough of me, if I remember. You still want me?” “Just like that?” He looked a little confused. He shrugged. “Are you drunk?” “Probably, but that’s not why. I’ve missed you.” “And if you hadn’t met me tonight?” Terry looked at him. “Anyone would have done, right?” “Okay,” he threw up his hands, “fuck it. Forget it. Let’s just…ah…talk.” He turned his back, did his pants back up. “You broke my heart when you left. I don’t know if I can do this again.” “I’m not asking for your heart,” he snapped. “All I want is your god damned cock.” That shocked him. This didn’t sound like the Adrian he knew. “Adrian, are you alright?” “Why shouldn’t I be?” He growled. He turned around. “You don’t want me, so…let’s forget it. I won’t pressure you.” 98

He Scores “I do,” Terry said. “I do want you. I just don’t want you like…this. It’s not how I imagined…” “What?” He looked at him. “It’s not how you imagined what? Either you want to fuck, or you don’t. Grow up, Terry. This isn’t a romance novel.” Terry looked down at his hands. “What’s happened to you?” “Nothing. Life, everything. You’re not the same either. You’re not that guy I met back in Norwich anymore, are you? You’ve probably fucked with tons of guys since you left that little shit town. You’re all grown up.” He didn’t answer. “I saw to that.” The anger seemed to drain away suddenly. Terry narrowed his eyes. “I stole your innocence.” He smiled slightly. “Well,” Terry couldn’t help but grin in return. “Someone had to. It might as well have been you. I couldn’t have stayed a virgin all my life.” Adrian laughed. “No. That would have been a tragedy.” Terry came closer. He touched his hair. “You can call it a romance novel if you want to. Call me crazy, but with all the lovers I’ve had since you, I’ve never felt the same. None of them have been you.” He sighed. “I may have changed, but the way I feel about you hasn’t, and that’s why I 99

D. J. Manly haven’t come by here. I…” Suddenly, Terry froze as he heard someone at the door. He stepped away from Adrian, and watched as the door opened. Pierre Trembly stood there. He recognized him right away from his picture. “Ah, oui,” he said. “Who in fuck is this one?” Pierre Trembly was almost as big as Adrian was, and at the moment, he looked really pissed off. “Pierre, meet Terry,” Adrian said flippantly. Terry nodded at him. “Hello, Pierre. Adrian and I are old friends from…” “Spare me,” he said, glaring at Adrian. “You left me high and dry. The others wanted to know where you’d gone.” “Kiss my ass,” Adrian said. Terry glanced at the door. Now he understood why Adrian had been in such a shitty mood. “I’d love to, but where does the line form?” “Fuck you,” he muttered, walking over to where the bed was. He stepped up behind the partition, and began to take off his clothes. “Well, I guess I…” Terry began, clearing his throat. Pierre eyed him. “You guess what?” “I better be going.” He began to move toward the door. Pierre placed a hand on his shoulder. “Where do you think you’re going?” 100

He Scores Adrian walked out from behind the room divider, absolutely naked. He stood in front of Terry, who tried not to let his gaze slide over his body, but it was a losing battle. He was just too beautiful. “Leave him alone, Pierre,” Adrian demanded. “Terry’s a friend of mine.” “They’re all friends of yours.” He cast a glance at Terry. “Adrian has a lot of little friends,” he sneered, raking Adrian’s body with a sweeping glance. “Why don’t you leave? I didn’t fucking invite you here tonight. Go home to your wife,” Adrian growled. Terry blinked. Wife? “Oh, I forgot, she doesn’t have the right equipment.” Their glances locked at this point, and Terry felt as if he were being held in a vice, unable to escape. He didn’t make a move. Pierre swore under his breath in French. Adrian said something to him in French Terry didn’t totally understand, but it sounded really nasty. Pierre stood his ground. “I’m not leaving,” he said. “Well then, I’ll throw your ass out.” Adrian made a threatening move towards him. “And you know I can do it.” 101

D. J. Manly Pierre didn’t seem perturbed by the threat. He looked at Terry. “Why don’t you stay with us tonight? I’m always pleased to meet Adrian’s friends.” Adrian opened his mouth to say something when Pierre took a step closer. The move squeezed Terry in between both men. His apprehension was quickly being replaced by sexual intoxication. He could feel Adrian’s erection pressing against the small of his back, and Pierre’s hot breath brushing his temple. When Pierre reached for his shirt and began to undo the buttons there, Terry shifted his weight a little, wanting to protest, but knowing he wasn’t going to. At the same time, Adrian’s hands slid around his waist and moved to the zipper on his leather pants, while his lips pressed against the back of his neck. Pierre’s mouth was on his chest, his tongue almost casually lapping one of his nipples. Adrian took his time unzipping his pants. He pushed them over his hips, and to the floor. Terry had taken not to wearing underwear, especially with tight pants. Adrian was on his haunches, kissing his buttocks, while Pierre moved his lips down to his stomach, and sunk to his knees. He smiled up at him. “You’re really hard,” he whispered. Terry swallowed, feeling Adrian’s tongue slide between his buttocks and lightly tease his anus. 102

He Scores He let his head fall back, moaning softly as the tongue action increased. Pierre began to roughly handle his cock, and then just as Adrian was beginning to drive him crazy with his tongue, Pierre took his cock into his mouth and started to give it some serious attention. He ceased to think. All he could do was surrender to the sensations of pleasure that were shooting through his body, and try not to come too fast. Adrian got up on his feet suddenly, moving his hands up over his back, and then turning Terry’s head to the side. He smiled at him for a few seconds, those smoky blue eyes looking down into his, then, he bent his head in for a kiss. When their lips met, Terry felt his cock pulse, and his balls tighten. He couldn’t hold on anymore. Adrian’s arms wrapped around his waist from behind, and the kiss deepened passionately, his hot mouth devouring his. Terry let out a muffled cry as his hips plunged forward, his cock pumping into Pierre’s mouth. A shudder of pleasure ran though his entire body as Adrian pulled him around in his arms and clutched his buttocks in his hands. He kept kissing him, and Terry’s cock was stiffening once again. Adrian searched for Terry’s hand and placed it on his cock. Pierre rose off his knees and came over and stood behind Adrian. As Adrian continued to kiss Terry, Terry fondled his cock, and reached lower to massage his testicles. This 103

D. J. Manly was met with a grunt of satisfaction, and Adrian broke away from him, as Pierre lowered his mouth to Adrian’s throat. Terry sunk down to take Adrian’s cock in his mouth. God, he had missed that cock. He had missed him so much. As he took it into his mouth, he tried not to think about Pierre, who was passionately kissing Adrian. Terry looked up to see that Pierre had wrapped his arms around Adrian from behind and was quite brutally twisting his nipples. Terry wrapped his hand around the base of Adrian’s cock, and began to put all his energy into sucking it. He wanted to drive him crazy. He wasn’t that naïve little virgin anymore. Adrian was giving himself over to the pleasure, his body surrendering to Pierre’s roaming hands, and Terry’s cock sucking. When Pierre suddenly disappeared, Terry stopped and looked up at Adrian. Adrian swayed a little, his eyes closed, the tip of his tongue snaking out to wet his lips every once in awhile. Terry wanted him to look down at him. Look at me, baby. Look at me. Suddenly, Adrian opened his eyes and did just that, a slight smile on his lips. “Don’t stop,” he urged softly. “Don’t stop.” Terry smiled back at him, and put his cock back into his mouth. Pierre was back. He could hear him ripping open a condom. Was he going to fuck Adrian? Terry redoubled his efforts, wanting to 104

He Scores make Adrian come now, wanting to hear him cry out. Adrian was pleading now, ready to come, and Terry released him as he shot, and cried out something, rearing back into Pierre’s welcoming arms. Terry sat there on the floor, feeling a little resentful. He wanted to hold him. In fact, he didn’t like watching Pierre’s arms fold around him, or his mouth roughly claim his. Terry stood up, and Pierre released Adrian. He held up the condom. “I want to fuck you,” he said, looking down at Terry. “Me?” He scrambled up to his feet. Pierre rolled the condom on his cock, still hard. Adrian reached out and took Terry’s hand. “Come on,” he said. “Come with us to the bed.” Terry swallowed. Pierre was already halfway across the floor. “But I want you,” Terry moaned, pressing his lips against Adrian’s shoulder. “Do you?” He smiled. “Oh God yes, I want…” Adrian placed a finger on his lips. He pulled Terry up against him. “Put a condom on, and you can have me.” He released him with a laugh and headed to the bed. Terry followed, in a daze. Adrian jumped onto the bed, and lay on his stomach. He threw a glance over his shoulder, and grinned. “Fuck me, Terry.” 105

D. J. Manly “Hey,” Pierre said, “that’s not…” Adrian sat up on his knees, and looked at Pierre. “I want to feel both of you, him inside me, and you inside him. Think you can handle it, stud?” Pierre shrugged, looking at Terry’s cock. “You up for it?” He laughed. “Looks like it.” Terry let his gaze glide over Adrian’s ass. Beautiful. All those nights, they’d made love in Norwich, and not once had he fucked Adrian. He didn’t have the courage, or the know-how. Now, well, he’d fucked a lot of guys, but Adrian was not a lot of guys. Pierre came up behind him and began to let his hands move down over his hips. One hand grabbed his cock and began to stroke it, and the other separated his ass cheeks, and began to lube his anus. Terry wasn’t sure what was turning him on more, Pierre’s slick finger moving in and out of him, or Adrian, who had turned over on the bed, and was watching them. Terry’s gaze moved to Adrian’s hard cock. God, it was beautiful. He was beautiful, even more so than he was that summer two years ago. Terry let out a deep moan. “I think he’s ready,” Pierre announced, letting go of Terry’s cock, and removing his finger. “Get on the bed, on your knees, behind Adrian.” 106

He Scores Terry focused on Adrian, who got up on his knees on the bed. Terry crawled in behind him, letting his hands move over his ass for a moment, then, reaching under him to fondle his cock. “Um,” Adrian urged. “Keep doing that. God, you have great hands, Terry. You’ve really…ah…yeah…grown up.” Terry laid his head on Adrian’s back as he felt Pierre’s cock nudge his entrance. Pierre pressed the tube of lube into his hand, and Terry squeezed some onto his hand. Almost reverently, he inserted a finger up inside Adrian’s ass and began to gently move it in and out. Adrian’s body shuddered. Terry felt that in his cock. Then Pierre seized hold of his hips, and he began to thrust himself inside of him. Terry moaned, in part because Pierre’s cock was substantial, and he was a little impatient. Once he pushed through the first ring of muscles, it felt good. It felt more than good, especially when Terry positioned his own cock between Adrian’s ass cheeks. “Are you ready?” he asked him, rearing back a little as Pierre started to pump him. “Go,” he whispered. “Fuck me.” Terry almost came before he was inside of him from a combination of Pierre fucking him, and the fact that he was finally inside of Adrian. He was shaking so bad once he pushed into him, he couldn’t do anything. Pierre was controlling the 107

D. J. Manly movements, causing him to involuntarily begin to fuck Adrian quite frantically. Their bodies were slick with sweat. Adrian pushed upwards with a deep groan, and Pierre shot inside of him, saying something over and over in French, then falling away from him. Terry wrapped his arms around Adrian. “I love you,” he moaned against his back, running his hands down over his chest, over his hard nipples, taking his cock in his hand and stroking it frantically. He pressed his body against the headboard and lost all control, as he began to pump into him hard. God, all that hard, muscular flesh in his arms, a firm, round ass pressed against his groin, soft, silky hair against his cheek, this had to heaven. “Adrian,” he groaned, “Oh God, I’m com…ming…” He continued to stroke him as he shot his load deep into his ass, experiencing Adrian’s orgasm as his own as he held him close when he came. Terry drew Adrian back into his arms. He rocked him, and kissed his temple, turned his head around to kiss his mouth. If Pierre was nearby, Terry didn’t know it. He didn’t care. “God, I’ve missed you so much,” he said, kissing him again. Pierre’s deep voice shattered the moment, as he called out, “Got any juice, Drin?” Adrian disentangled himself from Terry. He 108

He Scores gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, and then got up off the bed. “There’s some orange juice in the fridge, bottom shelf.” Terry lay back on the bed, and closed his eyes. He wasn’t sure what had just happened here. He felt kind of dazed. “Okay, cool. Taking off. See you later.” Footsteps, then the front door opened, and closed. Terry got up off the bed. He came out from behind the partition. Adrian was standing by the window, looking out. The sun was coming up. “Pierre is a…an interesting guy.” Adrian turned around from the window. “Yeah. You might say that.” “Did I hear you say…something about his wife earlier?” Adrian walked over to the refrigerator. “Want some juice?” “Okay, sure.” Adrian threw him a juice box. Terry caught it with a laugh. “Thanks.” “No problem.” Terry watched him walk across the wood floor, and throw himself onto the sofa. He stuck the straw in his juice box and began to drink it. “So, he’s married, or what?” “Last year. I was his best man.” Terry narrowed his eyes. “I don’t get it.” He came over and sat beside him. “He’s your lover, 109

D. J. Manly isn’t he?” Adrian looked at him. “Unfortunately, yes.” “Why’d he marry her?” “Keeping up appearances,” Adrian said flippantly. “Running scared. There was talk. He likes to hang out in the baths, and he was spotted there. He figured if he got married, the rumours would stop. The league was getting on his case about it.” “What about you?” “What about me?” “It must hurt that he…” He shrugged. “So, tell me about you.” “Well, I’m taking courses and working in a bar. It’s tough. My landlord is raising my rent and…” “Come and live here.” “What?” “Come, and live here,” he said, sitting up. “I’m gone half the time, on the road. I wouldn’t have to worry about the place. I wouldn’t charge you rent.” “Are you serious?” “Why not?” Terry grinned. “I would…love it…but what about…well, what about Pierre?” “This is my place, not Pierre’s,” Adrian said. “He and the little woman bought a house together in the West Island.” “Oh. Well…I…my lease is up next month 110

He Scores and…” Adrian stood up. “It’s settled then. You’ll move in here. I’ll get you the key, and the security code and all that stuff.” Terry stood up too. “Adrian, you don’t have to do this. I don’t want to cause trouble between you and Pierre. I’m not even sure what happened here tonight.” Adrian smiled at him. “Nothing. Nothing happened. We just had a good time, that’s all. Relax.” Terry laughed. “Okay. Sure, okay.” “I’ve going to be out of town for the next two weeks, then, I’ll be back. I’ll help you move in then, okay?”

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Chapter Six

T

erry was on the phone with Eve as soon as he got back home that day. He wanted to tell her that he’d met up with Adrian again. “You’re kidding me,” she said. “Adrian Vincent. How?” “I just ran into him.” “Wow. And?” “Well, he was with Pierre of course.” Terry didn’t tell her what had happened between the three of them. He wasn’t sure Eve would approve. Although they were still good friends, Terry had done a lot of things since he’d been on his own in the city that he wouldn’t tell her about. “I’m sorry, Terry.” “No, it’s okay. They have a weird relationship. Like, Pierre is married.” “Really? I didn’t hear about that.” “Maybe it wasn’t advertised a lot, but he married some girl. I think it was to quiet rumours about his sexuality.” 112

He Scores “And how does Adrian feel about that?” “I’m not sure. Anyway, the big news is…you ready?” “Yeah?” “Adrian asked me to move in with him.” There was silence. “Eve?” “With him, and Pierre?” “Pierre lives with his wife, and Adrian is hardly home.” “Do you think that’s wise, considering how you feel about him?” “What do you mean, we’re friends?” “You were more than friends, and you were devastated when he left that summer.” “I was a kid.” “Terry?” “Eve, don’t give me a hard time over this.” “Are you sure? What about that other hockey player?” “Don’t worry about it.” Time to change the subject. “So, how is Norwich?” “The same shit hole.” “Eve, come to Montreal. Why are you staying there? You could get a job here.” She sighed. “I know. I’m not brave like you. Big cities scare me.” “Come for a visit at least.” “I will, soon. Got to go, got to go to work.” 113

D. J. Manly “Say hi to Monica for me.” “Will do, love you,” she said. “Me too.” He hung up. Three weeks later, Adrian was helping Terry move into his apartment. “I’m sorry I can’t hang around too long,” he said. “We’re back on the road Monday night, but I have the weekend.” Terry watched him as he walked across the room. God, what a hunk he was. He hoped that he was going to at least stay in tonight, and that they’d be alone. “Adrian,” he said, getting up from the sofa and joining him behind the kitchen counter. “Are you going anywhere tonight?” “No,” he said. “Want to get take-out?” He smiled, and Terry just about melted right there. It was as if he’d never left that summer. God, could it be that he still felt the same after all this time. The answer was definitely yes. “Sounds great. Ah, what’s Pierre doing tonight?” he asked slyly. “Ah, family stuff with his wife I guess.” He picked up the phone and dialled. “Pizza or…?” “I like pizza.” “All dressed?” “Fine,” Terry grinned. They pigged out on pizza and watched some comedy show on television. Adrian seemed relaxed. He had turned the ringer off on the 114

He Scores phone, saying he didn’t want to be bothered by anyone. It was damn nice to have him all to himself. They talked, mostly about Terry’s classes at the university. A movie came on that Adrian wanted to watch, and Terry moved closer to him. A few minutes after the movie started, Adrian moved his head onto Terry’s lap. Terry’s heart pounded in his chest. He allowed his fingers to curl in his silky hair. Halfway through the movie, Adrian turned his head around in Terry’s lap, and reached over with his hand and undid the zip on his jeans. Terry let his head go back against the sofa. He swallowed hard, closing his eyes as he felt Adrian’s lips move over his cock, which had been hard half the night. When Adrian began to suck it in earnest, he got down on the floor between his knees. “Oh God,” Terry gasped. “You are so go…ood at that.” He was near the brink, his entire body trembling, aching, teetering on the edge…then, he let out a shout as the cum thundered up his shaft and into Adrian’s mouth. Adrian was sitting back now, wiping his mouth on his hand while Terry tried to recover his breath. As soon as he was able, he got off the sofa and pressed Adrian back on the floor. He lifted his t-shirt over his head and threw it aside, all the time looking down into those beautiful eyes of his. His hand crept down to his jeans, and he unzipped them. Adrian lay quiet, just watching 115

D. J. Manly him. God, how he loved this man. Maybe it was only because he was his first, but you’d think he would have gotten over that by now. To have him all to himself was exhilarating and he was totally hard again as he began to lick the pre-cum off Adrian’s cock. Adrian let his head roll to the side. He moaned low in his throat. It made Terry crazy, and he increased his effort, spreading his thighs and going to work on his balls, a finger creeping between his ass cheeks at the same time. “I want you,” Terry said, looking up. “I want to be inside of you.” “There’s lube in the drawer beside my bed,” he said, sitting up. “Let’s go to the bedroom.” Terry’s heart thudded in his chest. He stood up and followed him, leaving the clothes on the floor in a pile. Adrian rummaged in the drawer and handed him lube and a condom. Last time, Pierre had been with them. This time they were alone. “You’re all I’ve ever wanted,” he told him as he inserted his lube covered finger up inside of Adrian. Adrian was on the bed now, up on his hands and knees, moving his hips a little in response to Terry’s finger. “I want you bad, Terry,” he urged. “It’s enough. Do it now.” Terry withdrew his finger. He positioned himself behind him, capturing his cock in his fist, using his other hand to guide his cock. As he felt himself sink into his body, Terry closed his eyes. 116

He Scores He had all he could do not to explode right then and there. The feeling was incredible. He was shaking, not just from the sexual tension, but from the emotion. He began to move inside of him. Adrian groaned, his hips bucking a little, urging him to pump harder. His emotions wouldn’t allow him to let go. He felt he needed some control, some way not to let himself feel it all. If he did, he’d go mad maybe because Adrian wasn’t his. He didn’t belong to him. He probably never would. There was Pierre, and he wasn’t sure what that was all about…but he knew it made him a third party. “Adrian…” he cried out, clutching his hair, pulling his head back. He wanted to kiss him, to see his face when he came. He grabbed his hips now, drilling into him, wanting to make him feel him, know he was there. They were both breathing hard now, grunting little sounds, their sweat mixing, the need electric, then Terry came, with a series of sounds, and Adrian’s cock pulsed out its release in Terry’s hand. Adrian flattened himself out on the bed, a satisfied sound in his throat. Terry rolled onto his back and stared at the ceiling, wondering if he’d survive this. He almost regretted his decision to move in here. His heart was breaking already, and he knew there was no rational reason for it. When he rolled onto his side, and pressed his lips to Adrian’s shoulder, he realised that he was 117

D. J. Manly sleeping. He closed his eyes and moved closer to him, slipping into sleep himself. **** Terry awoke to arguing. He recognized right away the accented voice of Pierre. “So what in hell do you want me to do about it?” Adrian was saying. “You married her. What did you think?” “I’m not ready for all this,” Pierre grunted back. “She’s upset with me because I suggested an abortion.” “You really are a piece of work,” Adrian threw back at him. “I’d be upset with you too. I’ve got a newsflash for you, Pierre. When people get married, they generally want to have kids, don’t they?” “She didn’t even discuss it with me.” “It happened. Were you using something?” Terry heard some dishes rattle around in the sink. “Condom.” “Well, they break. Why in fuck are you coming to me with all this? It’s not like I can do anything about it.” “You can have some compassion for me.” “The only person I feel compassion for is that poor girl you married.” “Fuck you, Adrian. And what about that Terry guy? You really serious about him moving in 118

He Scores here?” “He already has.” “I don’t think…” “This is my condo, not yours.” “It could have been ours. We chose it together.” “Um, and then you went and chose a house with your wife.” Terry got out of bed. He couldn’t hide in there forever. He grabbed Adrian’s robe off the chair. When he walked out of the room, Pierre gave him a hostile look. “You don’t waste much time.” Terry sighed. “Hello, Pierre. Didn’t expect you.” Pierre stood up from where he was sitting around the kitchen counter. Adrian was drinking coffee beside the sink. He didn’t say anything. “I’ll see you on the road,” he grunted to Adrian, and stalked out, slamming the door behind him. Adrian didn’t say anything. Terry walked over to him, and looked him in the eye. “Why do you put up with that guy?” He shrugged. “Adrian? Do you still love him?” Terry’s heart pounded in his chest as he waited for Adrian to answer. “Yes,” he said. “I love him.” Terry bit his lip. “Why?” He smiled a little sadly. “He was my first.” “Oh.” 119

D. J. Manly Adrian reached out and squeezed Terry’s shoulder. “Don’t worry about it. What do you want to do today?” Terry smiled. “Really?” “Yeah.” “Whatever you want.” “How about I take you to breakfast?” “Sounds great. I’m starved.” “Then, we’ll take it from there.” **** They had a wonderful day. Adrian took him to a great place for breakfast, then they took a boat ride down at the Old Port. They did a bit of shopping, and Adrian ended up signing a few autographs. They went home, showered, and changed, then went out again. They had an expensive dinner at a Greek place, then Adrian suggested to go dancing. They went to a club and danced to a great rock band. It was almost four in the morning when they came home. The first thing Terry noticed when they came in the door was the answering machine flashing. He knew who it was. He threw his t-shirt over the phone so Adrian wouldn’t notice and steered him into the bedroom. “I want you,” he said. “Adrian, fuck me.” Adrian pulled him into his arms and kissed 120

He Scores him. Terry moaned and snuggled up against him. He’d waited all night for this. Dancing had been fun, but watching him move the way he did on the dance floor almost drove him out of his mind. “You teased me all night,” Terry whispered, kissing his rough jaw as he undid his pants. “Now it’s time to please.” Adrian laughed, taking off Terry’s clothes. “My pleasure,” he said softly, moving his lips over Terry’s shoulder, then down to his right nipple. His hand gently fondled his cock as he slid his other hand around to his ass. “Get me the lube,” he urged. Terry quickly found the tube and bounced onto the bed on his back. He handed it to him. “I want to see your face when you come.” Adrian smiled, leaning over him and beginning to move the tip of his greased index finger around his tender and sensitive opening. Terry watched him, his vision filled with him, the muscular lines of his incredible body, the rough outline of his jaw, the way his hair fell around his gentle face. His face contorted as the motion Adrian’s finger was awakening all kinds of sensations. His cock pulsed. “Um, Adrian, baby, come on…now,” he hissed, “inside me now.” Adrian lifted Terry’s legs over his shoulders, and probed his ass with the head of his cock, then, um, there it was, throbbing into his opening, 121

D. J. Manly penetrating his soul. Their bodies rocked back and forth in pleasure, both of them shouting out their release precious moments later. Oh yeah. This was definitely heaven. Terry awoke to a note. The flashing on the answering machine had stopped. The note said… Pierre got into some problems last night. He needs me. I’ll try to get back in time to say goodbye. We leave tonight at seven. Adrian. Terry threw the note aside. He swore. Adrian said they’d spend the day together before he left. Damn that Pierre. Terry fumed all day, waiting for Adrian to come home. Finally, around five, the door rattled open, and Adrian walked in. He looked frazzled. “Hey Terry. Sorry. God, I got to get packed and…” He was walking toward the bedroom, still rambling on about the things he had to do. Terry stood up and followed him. It wasn’t his intention to give him a hard time, the words just came out. “He’s using you, you know. He plays on your emotions, gets himself into trouble because he can’t face who he is.” Adrian put down his sports bag, and turned to look at him. “Terry, I don’t want to discuss this now. I don’t have the time and…” “You say you love him. Are you waiting for him to love you…to leave his wife and…?” 122

He Scores Adrian looked angry all of a sudden. “Terry, this is none of your business. I don’t want to talk about it with you now, or at any other time.” “Not my business? We slept together, didn’t we? Did it mean so little to you?” Adrian turned his back. “I never said it didn’t mean anything. I never lied to you about Pierre.” Terry took his arm and turned him around. “I know that. But he’s hurting you. I’d never do that.” Adrian moved his arm away. “I got to go.” He leaned down and kissed Terry gently on the cheek. “I appreciate your concern, Terry, but please, stay out of it. And you’re not obligated to fuck me. If you want to, and we keep it uncomplicated, fine, but we can just be friends if…” “Uncomplicated?” Terry blinked. Adrian was moving again. Terry followed him to the door. “I should be back in a few weeks. Enjoy the place. See you soon. Oh, before I forget,” he fished in his pocket and handed him two tickets, “we’re playing here in three weeks. Bring whoever you want.” Terry took the tickets from his hand. He was about to say something, but he was gone. ****

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D. J. Manly He poured out his heart to Eve on the phone. He hadn’t meant to, but somehow she was the first person he thought of. His other friends had called him, but he didn’t feel like telling them about it. “Poor baby,” Eve said. “I’d move out of there.” “I can’t.” “Why not?” Terry sighed. “I love him, Eve. I always have. As long as I’m here, there’s a chance that…” “A chance he’ll break your heart in two. Don’t you see, he’s playing you just like Pierre is playing him?” “No. It’s not the same. He’s being honest with me. Pierre is in love with Adrian, but he’ll never give him what he wants. He wants it all, big tough image, and Adrian to fuck. Adrian never promised me anything.” “Don’t get involved.” “I’m already involved. It’s too late for that.” He took a breath. “Want to go to a hockey game?” “What?” She laughed. “Come visit, and we’ll go see Adrian play. I’ve always wanted to see him play in person, could never afford the tickets.” “I’ll see what I can do. I’d love it,” she said. **** The days went by slowly. Terry went to school, and to work. He watched Adrian play hockey on the television whenever he got the chance. Eve 124

He Scores wanted to come out for the game, but couldn’t get the money together. She promised it would be soon. Terry was disappointed. He missed Eve, and he missed Adrian, and the fact that he knew he was on the road with Pierre, didn’t help. The night of the game, Terry was excited. Adrian was home, although he wasn’t sure for how long. He invited his friend, Louis, to go with him. When they entered the arena, Louis looked around him and sniffed, “I don’t get it,” he said. “Why do people get all worked up about sitting in a freezing cold arena, and watching grown men push a little puck around on the ice?” “It’s Canada’s national sport,” Terry said. “No, Canada’s national sport is Lacrosse, not hockey.” “Well, we think it’s our national sport then. You didn’t have to come.” Louis laughed. “Yes, I did. You are nuts over that Vincent guy.” Terry grumbled something. “What?” They went to take their seats right behind the bench where the Rockets would be sitting. “I’m not nuts over him. He just happens to be my roommate.” “Yeah, and you knew him back in that shit town you come from.” “Briefly.” 125

D. J. Manly “You never did tell me what happened? Is it true? Is The Flash gay?” “No.” “I know Trembly is.” “Who told you that?” Terry looked at him. “It was rumoured a while back, then he went and got hitched to a woman to cover it up.” Terry wanted to laugh. Poor Pierre. He went to all that trouble to cover it up, and it seemed obvious to everyone. Adrian didn’t bother to hide it, and no one suspected. They stood now for both national anthems as the Rockets were playing an American team, and the action began. It was wild to see Adrian live up to his nick name on that ice. He skated so fast, it was hard to follow him. He scored twice in the first period, and made two assists. The Rockets were hot. Terry found himself on his feet, more than in his seat. And by the third period, Louis was on his feet as well. It was a great game, and tense, because the other team almost tied it up in the second period. Adrian looked up at him at the end of the game, and waved, then pointed to the dressing room. “You up for it?” Terry grinned at Louis. “Are you kidding, hot, naked men? Bring it on!” They made their way out of their seats, down to 126

He Scores the passage underneath. They stood there watching the hockey players walk by. When Adrian saw Terry, he reached out his hand, and slapped it. “Come on,” he urged. Terry introduced Louis, who was suddenly gushing all over the place. Even in his heavily padded uniform, with his hair all plastered to his head with sweat, Adrian Vincent was a sight to behold. Adrian was discussing the game with Terry, his voice filled with excitement as they entered the dressing room. Terry moved aside, taking Louis with them as the others filed in, anxious to get their clothes off, and into the showers. Pierre was nearby, taking off his skates, talking in French to another player. He looked over at Terry at one time, and grinned at him. This worried Terry a little. What in hell did that mean?” Adrian walked over with a towel wrapped around him before heading to the showers, and invited them to a party afterwards. Terry and Louis said they’d be happy to go. When Adrian walked away, Louis put his fist into mouth, indicating that he had not been immune to the effect a half naked Adrian Vincent had on him. “Jesus Christ,” he whispered. Terry grinned. “Nice, eh?” Louis groaned. 127

D. J. Manly Terry laughed. “Come on, let’s wait outside. It’s really hot in here, and I’m getting high on the scent of jock straps.” Louis nodded, and they walked out into the corridor. “Terry,” Louis said, lowering his head so that his voice was at a whisper, “tell me the truth, did you make it with him?” Terry looked away. “No, no. Why would you think…?” “I don’t know. It’s just the way you look at him.” “I’d love to,” he said, “if he was willing but…you know these macho types. He’s just a friend.” A little while later, Adrian appeared. His hair was still damp from the shower. He smelt of soap and some cologne. Several other players slapped him on the back as they left. He nodded at Louis. “Where are we going?” Terry asked him. “…just waiting for Pierre. Decided to have some guys back to my place.” Terry’s heart sank. “So,” he said, looking at Adrian, “where is Pierre’s wife tonight?” “They’ve split up temporarily,” Adrian said, looking around a little uncomfortably. Terry narrowed his eyes, but he didn’t say anything. They called a cab, and Pierre sat in back with Adrian and Louis, while Terry sat in the front. 128

He Scores Another cab followed behind them with two so called friends of Pierre. All the way, Adrian and Pierre discussed the hockey game. Louis acted like he was really into hockey. Terry lost track of the conversation. Pierre and Louis were both French, and Adrian had a French speaking father. When they all started speaking French at the same time, even the taxi driver chimed in, and Terry understood only about every third word. He was practically deaf when they got out of the cab. The taxi driver got autographs from both Pierre and Adrian, and went on his way, shouting some cheer in French as he drove away. The next cab appeared, and again the driver got autographs from Adrian and Pierre, and Adrian introduced the other two guys, who were obvious not hockey players. There were drinks all around when they got upstairs, and Louis looked pretty chummy with Pierre in the corner, clicking his beer bottle against his. Adrian looked happy, and Terry didn’t want to bring him down, but he was seriously concerned that Pierre was going to move into the condo, and he’d be out in the cold. When the two guys who’d been in the other cab began doing a slow strip, Terry’s suspicions were confirmed. Everyone started whistling, and cheering, including Adrian. Terry stood alone off to the side, chastising himself for not loosening up 129

D. J. Manly and joining in. One of the strippers obviously had eyes for Adrian because he kept his gaze on him as he swayed his hips provocatively. Even Pierre didn’t seem to like it. Then both of them pushed Adrian into the chair and began to take off his shirt. Pierre was on his feet, a little drunk. He pulled one stripper back. “Hey, I paid you to strip yourself, not Adrian. Back off.” “Relax,” Adrian laughed. “They’re just having some fun.” “Fun’s over,” he growled. “Get dressed and get out.” Louis looked at Terry, who shrugged. Everyone was silent as the two men left, half dressed. “That was a little heavy,” Adrian said, raising an eyebrow at Pierre. Pierre ignored Adrian and looked over at Terry. “Still here, eh?” “Where would you like me to be?” Terry asked him, meeting his gaze. “Out of here.” Adrian stood up. “Pierre,” he said. “Terry is my roommate. Knock it off.” “Yeah, yeah, one of your friends. I know. But does he know that, you think?” Louis stood up. “Maybe I better go.” “Stay right there,” Pierre barked. Adrian looked at Louis. “Go if you want, Louis. 130

He Scores I apologise.” “You don’t need to apologise for me. And if you’re staying here tonight,” Pierre said to Terry, “you’re sleeping on the sofa.” Terry nodded. “That’s fine. And where are you sleeping, Pierre?” “Enough,” Adrian said. “We’ve all had a little too much to drink.” “I’m going to Louis’s tonight,” Terry said. He walked towards the bedroom. “Wait for me outside in the hall, Louis, okay?” “Sure,” Louis said, and quietly made his way to the door. “Proud of yourself?” Adrian asked Pierre. “Look, I left my wife for you, and this little fuck head….” “You left your wife for you, because you can’t handle the responsibility of being a father.” Terry jammed some clothes in a bag. He swallowed. What was he doing here? He was only banging his head up against the wall. They were shouting at each other now. And when Terry came out with his bag, Pierre was sulking in the corner. “Well, I’ll leave you guys to it then,” Terry said. “Terry,” Adrian said, following him into the hallway. “Don’t go. I’m sorry. Pierre is just drunk and…” “Adrian,” Terry said, meeting his gaze. “I love you so much. You are so hung up on Pierre, you 131

D. J. Manly can’t see the truth. I don’t think this is going to work. I don’t think…” He choked, shook his head and walked off down the hall. He didn’t even realise that Louis was beside him until he felt him touch his shoulder. “Are you alright?” They were outside. It had started to rain. Perfect. “Did I hear you tell him that you…you loved him?” He looked at Louis, his eyes filled with tears. “I lied to you. We did know each other before. He was my first lover, Louis. I thought I’d stopped loving him, but I haven’t, and I’m never going to. Pierre treats him like shit, and you know, Pierre was his first as well. Maybe there’s something about your first.” Louis put an arm around Terry, and he sobbed into his shoulder. “I’m going home, Louis. I’m going back home.”

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Chapter Seven

E

ve met him at the bus terminal in Norwich. She started crying when she saw him. He held onto her for a long time, but he didn’t cry. He didn’t have any tears left. Eve put his bags in her car, and they began to walk down by the river. It was the place they always went when things weren’t going so well for either one of them. “Does he know you’ve left?” He shook his head. “I don’t think so. I stayed with a friend until I was sure he was gone back out on the road, then, I went back, got my stuff, left the key.” “Didn’t he try to contact you after you left that night?” “He wouldn’t have known how. He didn’t know Louis really. He wouldn’t have had his number.” “Did you leave a note?” Terry shook his head again, sitting down in the 133

D. J. Manly grass. “I wouldn’t have known what to say.” Eve sat down beside him. She put her arm around him. “I’m sorry.” Terry stared out into the water. He would have never guessed that he’d come back here, never believed that he’d be happy to. “It’s my own fault. I should have never gone to Montreal in the first place.” “Your mom is probably anxious to see you,” Eve said. “I know. I just don’t feel like going home right now. She’s a little miffed about me dropping out of school.” “You can always go back.” “No. I’m never going back there,” Terry said, getting up, and extending his hand to Eve. “Think I can get my old job back at the diner?” he asked sadly. She hugged him again. “Oh Terry,” she whispered. “I was so hoping it would work out for you and Adrian.” “It was a dream. He’s a dream. A dream I’d better try to forget. Let’s go.” **** Spring arrived shortly after he did, and he helped his mother plant flowers around the house. He had resigned himself to life in Norwich again, 134

He Scores trying to avoid questions from the curious about why he dropped out of school. His mother had come to terms with his decision but she didn’t understand it. “I’m worried about you,” she said one evening. “You seem depressed.” “I’m fine,” he told her, but depression wasn’t the word for it. He felt as if he was being weighed down by a shroud of misery. Even the blooming tulips and the warm sunshine didn’t elevate it. The hockey playoffs were on, and that didn’t help. Everywhere in town, people were talking about The Rockets, and how, along with Adrian Vincent, they had a real chance at the winning the cup this year. He told himself he wouldn’t watch the play off games but he found himself glued to the television anyway. They were down to the line. The Rockets were down one. They had a chance to tie up the series, three to three. Eve came over to his place, and along with Terry’s mother, they all sat down to watch the game. It was an exciting game, each team playing hard. They could tell that the players really could taste the victory. Then in the second period, all hell broke loose. It wasn’t unusual to see hockey players get into fights on the ice, but it was unusual to see two hockey players on the same team get into it. There was an icing call, and 135

D. J. Manly Adrian who played center skated up to the face off line. Pierre suddenly walked up to Adrian just as he was going to go for the puck, and knocked him on his ass. It was so unexpected. The announcer went…”Whoa…what’s happening here? Looks like Trembly has decided to give The Flash a bashing…” Terry couldn’t believe it. “What in hell is that fool doing?” They were decking it out on the ice, really going at it, while their team mates and the refs were trying to drag them off each other. “Someone is in trouble…” the announcer added. “The coach is hitting the roof over there…oh…and here he comes…we can’t explain it folks, first time in hockey history that two players on the same team start slugging each other.” When they were dragged apart, Terry gasped. Blood ran down the side of Adrian’s face. Pierre was swearing at him in French, and Adrian was shouting back in English. “There’s going to be a little pause for now,” the announcer said. “Let’s go to commercial. Eve looked at Terry. Terry shook his head. His mother stood up. “That’s odd, and that Vincent fellow seemed so nice.” Terry rolled his eyes. “What do you think it means?” Eve asked, after 136

He Scores Terry’s mother left the room. “I don’t know, but you know what,” Terry said, “it’s just another example of their volatile relationship. Pierre can’t commit but he doesn’t want Adrian with anyone else, and Adrian is still hopelessly hung up on him. They can kill each other for all I care,” Terry growled. He stood up and switched off the set. **** Summer came, and he and Eve drove up to the lake and spent their time swimming. Terry pitched in once in awhile at the diner, but he didn’t want to go back there full time. The tourists came, and he was being pressured to put in more hours. He did so grudgingly because Monica was in a fix. It was a hot day in early July when he was cooking in the kitchen, and not too happy about it, that he wished he was up at the lake. Eve kept teasing him, splashing water on his face, and she made him laugh. At supper, the crowd got intense, and Terry was ready to drop. “Take a break outside,” Monica said, “I’ll take over.” Terry went outside. There was absolutely no breeze at all. He longed to go to the lake. When Eve came outside a few minutes later, he said, “I know, I know, Monica needs me.” Eve shook her head. “Terry,” she said, putting a 137

D. J. Manly hand on his forearm, “Adrian Vincent is here.” Terry felt a lump settle in his throat. “What?” “He’s here,” she said, looking as shocked as he felt. “What’s he doing here?” “I don’t know. He asked for you.” “What did you tell him?” “She said you were out here,” a voice said suddenly. Eve smiled at Terry. “I got customers,” she said, and disappeared inside. Terry tried to hold back the tears. Adrian standing there, right in front of him, was a little too much for him. He looked down to see that he had King with him. King came up to him for a pat, and Terry absently scratched his ears. Then, gripped with emotion, he turned his back. “What do you want?” He didn’t want him to see him cry. “Can’t you even look at me, Terry?” “I have dust in my eyes and the wind…” A hand clamped down on his shoulder and turned him around. “You don’t have dust in your eyes. I couldn’t blame you if you never wanted to see me again.” “What are you doing here?” Terry searched his face. There was a slight scar beside his left eye. He was sure that bastard Pierre had put it there when he socked him on the ice. “I needed to see you.” 138

He Scores Terry laughed, and it came out as a sob. “Go away, Adrian, please.” He began to walk. Adrian followed him down the street, King at his heels. “God damn it, Terry. Stop being such a drama queen. I came here to tell you that I love you.” Terry froze. He turned around, looked at him. “What did you say?” “I said I love you.” He sighed. “Look, after you left, I realised that…well…Pierre was everything you said he was. The only person Pierre loves is Pierre. And he only wants to hide. He’ll never grow up. He’ll never be the man I need him to be.” There were people gawking at them now. “Look, let’s go somewhere where we can talk.” Terry said. “People are staring and…” “I don’t give a shit who’s staring,” he said, looking down at him. He put his hands on his shoulders. “Terry. Please don’t send me away. I made a mistake. Pierre and I are really over. I swear to you on my life, on my career as a hockey player. I’ve never been able to say that before, and mean it. I don’t care if I never see him again.” “Is that why you had that fight on the ice?” “Yes. He knew I really meant it this time. He wouldn’t accept it. He was fuming that night, and he just lost it, right there on the ice in front of everyone.” “And, after? If you have to play with him again?” 139

D. J. Manly “He’s been suspended for a year, and he’s being transferred to an American team.” “What about his wife?” “She’s left him. She knows the truth now, everyone does.” “Will she be alright?” “I think so. She’s better off without him, that’s for sure. She’s going to keep the baby. Terry, I told the coach the truth. I told him that Pierre and I had been lovers, and that I wanted to end it, and that’s why he attacked me on the ice.” “Oh my God. You did?” “I did. And you know what else I told the coach? I said, listen, I’m gay, and I’m also one hell of a good hockey player. You wouldn’t have won the cup without me this year. I was also voted most valuable player. I don’t need to tell everyone about my sexuality, but, from now on, I’m not going to hide it anymore from anyone. So, suspend me if you want, but I guarantee you, I will sue the hockey association for civil rights violations until their head spins.” “What did he say?” Terry stared at him, flabbergasted. “He said ‘don’t be late for training camp in September, Vincent, or I’ll kick your ass.” Terry howled with laughter. “Congratulations.” He moved closer. “So, will you give me a chance? Will you give us a chance? Terry, you’re 140

He Scores the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I realised that when I came back, and you were gone. I tried to reach you, but I didn’t know how. I didn’t even know if you’d come here. I came up here on the chance that I’d find you.” Terry was so happy. He couldn’t help smiling, and he couldn’t wait to get him alone. He wanted to kiss him. He glanced around to see that people were still staring. “Come on, baby, say yes,” he urged. “Tell me you still feel the same way, or I think I’ll die.” Terry smiled, softly. “I’ve missed you so much, it hurts. I never did do a good job of hiding how I feel about you. Adrian, I’ll never stop loving you.” Adrian swallowed, smiling at him. “Guess I got the answer I came here for.” Glancing over at the people standing around suddenly, he asked, “Who are all those people anyway?” “Your fans, and my critics.” “Oh really?” he muttered. “Um, well, let them critique this,” he growled. Terry gasped as Adrian pulled him into his arms, and pressed his mouth firmly against his. The kiss lasted an indecently long time. When Adrian Vincent released him, he looked boldly over at the stunned crowd, and called out loudly. “He shoots, he scores!” Terry’s eyes widened. He collapsed into laughter, burying his face against Adrian’s 141

D. J. Manly shoulder. Adrian put his arm around him, and propelled him down the street. “You’re crazy,” Terry told him, hugging him close. “Yep. Crazy about you.” He stopped then for a second, and looked down into Terry’s eyes. “Baby, you’re the best thing I’ve ever scored in my life, and I’m not about to let you forget it.” Terry grinned, as they continued on their way, King following enthusiastically behind them. “Don’t think this little town will ever forget it either.” To this, Adrian cocked an eyebrow. “Wonder if they’ll still try and claim me as their hometown boy now?” “Who cares!” Terry kissed him again, laughing. And leaning down to pet King, he said, “Let’s get to hell out of here, boy.”

The end

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About the Author I write not only for my own pleasure, but for the pleasure of my readers. I can’t remember a time in my life when I haven’t written and told stories. When I’m not writing, I’m dreaming about writing, doing something wild and adventurous, or trying to make the world a better and more open minded place to live in. I adore beautiful men, and I know I’m not alone in this! Eroticism between consenting adults, in all its many forms is the icing on the cake of life! PUBLISHED BOOKS: Eternal Souls Book 1 Vampire Lust Eternal Souls 2: Beloved Foe Brennus’ Witch Christmas with Wistan Dreaming of Brandon Archer The Initiator The Sexshifters The Sexshifters II Ash: Son of the Demon God Brennus’ Witch — Body and Soul Borderline Tainted — Tarot — The Hanged Man Eternal Souls 3 —Wanton Renegade Essence The Staircase Nicholas Le Metro The Other Man Find them all at: www.extasybooks.com