---

A few days later Wolf suggests that we go Christmas shopping after I get out of school. I hadn't given it much thought since it was no big thing to Walt and my old man wasn't home a lot of times, but I figure I gotta get Wolf something and Mickey, too. Maybe something for my old man, that's all.

It's warm enough so a sweater is all I need. Wolf questions me about Mickey. We look at jewelry, but what I see doesn't say love, or screams it so loud you'd have to be the village idiot not to know if a guy's wearing it he's gay. Wolf spots some heavy silver ID bracelets. They're really masculine, but Wolf suggests I can have the back engraved with 'I love you' and my initials. That way nobody will catch on. While I'm waiting for the engraving, I see Wolf staring at something and go to see. It's a beautiful fountain pen. I didn't think anyone used them any more, but Wolf says a few important men like my father still do and suggests I get him one when I tell him dad was swearing because his pen leaked in his pocket the last time he was home.

The clerk takes it from the case and hands it to Wolf. He's practically drooling as he looks at it. Wolf writes beautifully, unlike my henscratch. I figure this is a problem solved, but the $350 price tag makes me choke.

"Why's it cost so much?" I ask Wolf while the clerk is wrapping it.

"Montblancs are the world's best pens. They have a lifetime warranty, and some are limited editions. Those can cost as much as five thousand dollars. This is a Meisterstuck pen. It's excellent quality and may gain a little in value, but it's not a collector's item or rare."

"But it isn't even gold or silver."

Wolf smiles at me. "It's not always what you can see that makes value. Sometimes it's the workmanship you can't see. That's why my hook is so valuable to me."

"Oh."

Wolf says he needs to run to another store and will be right back. Soon as he's gone, I call the clerk over and buy another pen for Wolf. The clerk looks surprised, but happy. I know I can afford it and the rest of the stuff I need. I ask him to wrap it and put it in the bag with the pen I got for dad and the ID I got for Mickey, so Wolf won't see three packages and ask questions.

When we go out to get the car, it's dark. Wolf tells me to stick close because we're parked behind the mall. It's really dark because some of the security lights are out. Suddenly I'm grabbed from behind and a hand goes over my mouth. I drop my bag and Wolf turns then drops his.

A gruff voice says, "Gimmie your money." I feel something sharp poke me in the back. I try to move, but the man says, "Not you, kid. Your old man."

Guess it's so dark he can't tell how old Wolf is or he don't care.

I see Wolf motion for me to get to one side if I can, then he points his hook at the guy. "I got an artificial arm, so I gotta reach with my right hand."

"Don't play no games or the kid gets it."

Wolf nods slightly and I go limp, instantly dropping to the pavement. I hear a little puffing sound and the man's lying half on top of me and not moving. Wolf helps me up and I see him bend over the man and pull something from his coat. Wolf picks up our bags and we run for his car. Once we're inside, Wolf turns on a little light and asks me to help him take his hook off.

"We got time? I mean that guy might come after us."

Wolf laughs. "He'll probably be there tomorrow morning if security doesn't find him. He's gonna hurt like hell for a few days anyway."

I hold his coat and shirt and take the hook when he shrugs out of the harness. I see tiny wires coming out of the two little holes in the plastic part where the hook screws in.

"Careful," Wolf says, reaching for the hook.

I watch him open a little hatch in the side of the plastic part just below where his stump ends. He takes out a little black plastic thing and pulls the two tiny wires back through the two tiny holes in the plastic part of his arm.

"What's that?"

He smiles. "Secret weapon. It's a taser gun, but I had it adapted to fit my hook. That's why I didn't want you messing with it. When I fired it, these two little darts came out and the needles stuck into his chest. He got hit with fifty thousand volts of electricity."

"It didn't kill him?"

"Not unless he has heart problems. It shorts out the nerves for a while so he loses consciousness and can't move. When he recovers, his muscles will be so sore from the contractions, he won't feel like moving even when he can." He starts the motor.

"You just gonna leave 'im?"

"Yeah. Somebody'll find him. If he dies there's no way anybody can trace my taser even if they figure out what it was. Police tasers have an identity marker, but I had that removed." He leans over and kisses me on the forehead. "You're important, not him. I'm just doing my job even though I would because I love you."

It's the first time I realize Wolf's real job is to protect me so nobody can kidnap me and find out something from the old man. Makes me a little sorry I didn't appreciate Walt more, but like Wolf said, he's doing it because he loves me. That sure makes a difference.

I'm still shook when we get home. I hug Wolf and say, "Thanks, man."

"All part of the day's work." He slaps me on the butt. "Take your stuff upstairs and get ready for dinner."

Before I can move the phone rings. I answer, then say "Hi, Mickey. What's up?" I hold up a finger for Wolf to wait. "His mom wants to talk to you." I pass him the phone.

Wolf listens, then hands the phone back to me, and nods. "See ya Friday evening, then." I make a kissing sound. "Love you."

Wolf's grinning. "I didn't think it was necessary to ask if you wanted to go."

"You going, too?"

"Annie needs a day off this close to Christmas and Mrs. Fox was kind enough to invite me."

"But ..." I start to object.

Wolf grins. "Don't sweat it, I'm not into threesomes. I'll talk to Mickey's parents while you guys have fun."

"If you were into a twosome, I wouldn't even go."

"Oh, I could be. Just not with someone young as you."

"I know, damn it." I pick up my bags and give him my disappointed look.

Dinner at Mickey's is great. We are each served a half a small baked chicken and there's lots of veggies. I love cauliflower with cheese sauce and this sauce has a real bite to it. Wish Annie could find cheese this good. Mickey turns up his nose at it, but eats plenty of peas. They're good, too, with mushrooms in them. But everyone looks at me when I carefully skin my chicken. I'd love to pick up the leg with my fingers.

I feel a little self-conscious. "Sorry, Mrs. Fox, but I don't eat the skin on any meat."

"Only kid I know who skins Kentucky Fried," Wolf says with a chuckle.

She's kind enough to say "Michael won't touch cauliflower and, " she looks at her husband, "Warren simply won't touch anything containing a mushroom. That's why the variety tonight."

"This is the best cheese sauce I've ever tasted, " I tell her.

"Thank you, Ric. It took forever, but I found a little country store about five miles out of town that carries old-fashioned rat cheese." She smiles. "A terrible name for properly made and aged cheddar."

"Mom makes great pimento cheese from it. Fantastic for sandwiches," Mickey says.

She looks at him fondly. "That's why I can never seem to keep any on hand. He likes it for grilled cheese sandwiches, too."

I look at Wolf. "Get some for Annie, please?"

"If Mrs. Fox will give me her secret source. I agree, Ric, this is superb."

Soon as dinner is over, Mickey and I excuse ourselves and go to his room. We strip and he gets his leg off then we make our own fun. When Wolf comes up to tell me it's time to go, Mickey and I are talking about getting together Christmas Day. We rush to dress and go down.

"We've got to get a tree and put it up," Wolf says on the way home. "You have lights and all that stuff?"

"I think it's all somewhere in the attic. Walt wouldn't ever have one, so we didn't unless my old man was home."

"Damn, kid, that sucks." He messes with my hair. "We're gonna do it right this year. Soon as we get home we're going hunting in the attic."

Next day I guess we looked at a couple of hundred trees before Wolf finds one he likes. It takes us most of the day with driving from lot to lot. I'd settle for any of them, just to have a tree. I'm wondering how he's gonna get it home, but he uses his cell phone to call the man does our yard and tells him to come get it in his truck. We'll wait for him. Wolf sends me to the McDonalds across the street for coffee.

Putting it up is fun, 'specially with Wolf. He really gets into it. We stop for dinner, then get back with it. I get a kick out of watching Wolf put the balls on. He's taken off his hook, he says to keep from breaking the glass balls, and uses his arm freely to hold the branch while he hangs the ball with his fingers. It really does look great when we're done. He puts his stump around me while we're looking at it so I reach up and hold the end of it in my hand. It feels so great.

"What you want Santa to bring you, kid?" Wolf asks.

This is too good to miss. I reach down and clutch his crotch. "This with a red ribbon on it."

He swats me on the back of my head with his stump. "Damn, but you've got a one-track mind. I thought we had that settled."

I hug him. "I figure my chances of getting it are as good as seeing Santa come down the chimney, but I can always hope."

He hugs me back. "Love you, Ric, you're a good kid. Be glad you found a stud like Mickey."

Next morning I ease down with the things I got for Wolf, Mickey, and my old man, but it looks like Wolf beat me to it because there's several packages under the tree.

My biggest surprise comes the morning of Christmas Eve when I hear a car stop out front and look out the window to see my old man get out of the car, pull his suitcase out, and start toward the house. I get to the bottom of the stairs just in time to hear the lock release and he walks in. He sets his suitcase down, takes off his overcoat, and holds out his arms.

"It's so good to be home to have Christmas with you, Aleric. Did you and Wolf put up the tree? It's looks lovely. So does the wreath on the door."

I hug him tightly. "Wolf's great, father, he makes things fun to do. I'm glad you're here. Now it seems like Christmas."

"Yes, it does, son. Forgive me, but I'm very tired. I'm going to take a nap until lunch time. Tell Annie I'm here."

"Yes, sir." I pick up his suitcase and carry it to his room.

Annie meets me in the hall. "Who came in, Ric? You know I'm supposed to answer the door if Wolf's not here."

"I was coming to tell you. Dad's home. He's sleeping until lunch."

"Oh, my goodness! I better get busy. I was going to give you and Wolf hamburgers."

Dad sticks his head out the door. "A big hamburger will be fine, Annie. I haven't had one in a long time."

"Yes, sir. I didn't mean to disturb you, sir."

"You didn't, I just got out of the shower. Let me sleep until lunch."

I'm reading and almost jump out of my skin when I feel something very cold and hard against the back of my neck. It's a hook. Wolf's standing behind me laughing. "Got ya."

I punch him on the arm. "Dad's home."

"No kidding! I'm glad for you, buddy. Now it'll really be Christmas."

Over lunch Wolf tells my father that I've invited Mickey and his parents for dinner that evening. Dad looks pleased when Wolf nods his approval.

"I'm glad you're enjoying a friendship, Aleric. I know it has been difficult for you."

"No, sir. I mean Wolf helps a lot. I just wish he didn't have to take me everywhere. I've got my driver's license now."

"I'm sorry, but it's still necessary." He smiles. "Next year should be much better for you, son. I'm retiring. All this travel has gotten to me."

"I wish you would retire now, cause next year I'll be going to college."

I glance at Wolf and he looks sick. "What's wrong, Wolf?"

"Don't you remember, Ric? When your father retires I'll have retire also."

"Why?"

"Because Wolf is disabled, son, and you won't need his protection any more."

"But, father, I ..." I see Wolf telling me with his eyes to shut up.

"I'm well aware that you and Wolf have become very close, Aleric. Don't let this spoil your Christmas. You have until next fall and any number of things can change by then."

I'm surprised when he follows me to my room and shuts the door. "Aleric, I'm ashamed that I didn't think to get Wolf a gift. May I ask what you got for him?"

I tell him and he nods in approval. "Excellent, son. Would you mind adding my name to the card? I'll pay you for it."

"I'll be glad to, sir. But maybe half? It was a little more than I planned."

"Thank you, son. Would you remind me after Christmas to buy a good fountain pen for myself."

"Yes, sir." I can't believe how great this is working out.

Mickey and his parents show up at 6. I introduce them to my father then Mickey and I go to my room leaving them to talk. By the time Wolf comes to call us to dinner we've worked up an appetite. He grins and tells us to straighten our clothing and comb our hair.

Since father never talks about his work, he's good at drawing other people out. Mr. Fox is soon talking about his holding company. I'm lost, but Wolf winks at me, meaning he'll tell me later. When he speaks to Mickey's mom, she embarrasses me by telling dad all the good stuff she thinks I've done. Mickey's dad agrees with her, and I see my dad glancing at me with a smile.

After dinner Mickey and I would have gone back to my room for some real fun, but dad says he would like us to join them in the living room. As soon as Annie serves us coffee, Mickey's mom says, "I hate to disappoint you, Ric, because I know you and Michael had planned on spending tomorrow together, but I think you should enjoy the time with your father. He has agreed that Michael can come over tomorrow evening and spend the night if you wish. For that reason I told Michael he should bring his present to you to open tonight."

Mickey grins at me and hands me a big box from under the tree. He whispers, "You'll get your real present tomorrow night." and giggles.

I get his and whisper back, "You're a pervert, but I can't resist your stump."

"It's not polite to whisper in front of others, Aleric," my father says.

"Private joke with them, sir," Wolf says.

"We're quite used to it," Mickey's mother says.

Mickey starts to unwrap his, so I wait. When he opens the box I take the bracelet and put it around his right wrist and turn it so he can see 'I love you. R'

"It's beautiful." He says aloud then whispers, "Wish I had gotten a kiss with it."

"Later." I open mine and find ten CD's I've been wanting. "Wow, how did you know?"

Mickey grins. "I listen real good."

I don't care if my old man sees me or not, I hug him.

I'm surprised when Wolf gets up and takes a package from under the tree and hands it to Mickey. " Enjoy, buddy, but open it later." He looks at Mickey's parents and winks.

They leave soon after and I go up to bed. It's after ten when I get up and go down. Wolf's got on old sweats and hands me a glass of juice, saying he'll fix breakfast soon as my dad's up. Annie has today and tomorrow off. I hug Wolf and give him a kiss on the lips which he returns.

"Merry Christmas, Ric," he says.

Dad comes in, in his robe and hugs me then, to my surprise, Wolf. "Merry Christmas. I slept like a log last night. It's wonderful to be home."

"Merry Christmas to you, sir. Have a seat and I'll start the waffles."

I love it when Wolf cooks sausage and makes waffles from scratch. He says those frozen waffles are Frisbees some idiot thought would be edible. He gets real maple syrup to go on them, too. My dad must like them because he eats one and a half waffles and six of the little breakfast sausages.

"Delicious, Wolf. It's a treat to have plain American food once more. I'm afraid I don't tell you often enough what an asset you are to this family."

"Thank you, sir. I try."

"Nonsense! You do far more than try. What you have done for Aleric alone is priceless. He has not enjoyed a normal childhood, but you've made it the best it has been. He's quite happy and his grades show your influence also."

Wolf holds up his hook. "I thought I was done when this happened, sir, and I wasn't happy about being told I could babysit or leave my job, but being with Ric has been the best thing in my life. I thank you for accepting me and giving me the opportunity."

Father nods. "Fate occasionally resolves situations to the happiness of everyone. I'll say again how delighted I am at the relationship that you and my son share, Wolf."

"Thank you, sir."

"As for you, son, don't you think it's time you opened your gifts."

My desktop computer is only two years old, but dad's given me a top of the line laptop. He smiles when I open it. "You'll need it in school, son, and this is much easier to carry about than a large one."

Wolf gives me a fantastic black leather fleece-lined bomber jacket. The guys at school are going to flip when they see this. I give him a hug, and when dad looks away, a quick kiss.

Dad opens his pen and smiles. "You anticipated me, Aleric. I couldn't be more delighted and grateful." He holds out his arms and gives me a tight hug. It kinds of gets to me because I'm realizing now that my old man really cares about me.

There are a few other little things, but I save Wolf's for last. "I love you," I whisper when I give it to him.

Wolf opens the case and just stares at it.

My father smiles at him. "A man who has the exquisite penmanship you have, Wolf, deserves a good writing instrument."

Wolf wipes his eyes on his sleeve then hugs me and gives me a kiss on the forehead. "I don't know what to say, sir," he says to my father. "Thank you seems inadequate for a gift like this."

"I hope it will always remind you of a happy time, Wolf."

"It will, sir."

Dad gets a cup of coffee and starts to read the paper. I begin a book Wolf gave me, and Wolf goes to the kitchen. Annie left dinner mostly fixed, so Wolf will finish it up. We'll eat about six.

Mickey comes over about five and we go up to my room. After some heavy kissing, he hands me a little box. I open it and take out a neck chain with a pair of little silver crutches on it.

Mickey's grinning. "Those are for you when I'm not around. I know you like me on crutches best, so hold these in your hand and close your eyes and think of me swinging along."

I do, and damn if the response isn't instantaneous. Mickey starts to laugh and grabs me. "Work better than I thought they would."

"Wish you had yours here."

He grins and goes to my closet, bringing out a pair. "How?" I ask.

"Brought 'em when we came for dinner last night. They're an extra pair."

"Get that leg and your clothes off. Christmas is waiting."

Sure makes a great end to the best Christmas I've ever had. Wolf has a big smirk on his face when he comes to get us for dinner. The minute we enter the dining room I can tell my dad didn't know about Mickey's foot. He raises an eyebrow but doesn't say anything.

When Mickey and I are in bed he punches me and giggles. "You know what Wolf gave me?"

"No. What?"

"A book called The Joy of Gay Sex, some lube, and a box of rubbers."

"He gave me the same thing after you left last night."

"The best thing was he gave me a membership in the Amputee Coalition. They have a great chatroom for kids my age. You're gonna love some of the pics in the magazine."

Mickey and I make the best of the two days we get together. His parents have invited us to a new year's party, an invitation which dad accepts to my surprise. Mickey and I get a little tipsy so I spend the night with him. Trouble is we're tipsy enough nothing happens. I have to go home the next day because his school starts a day earlier than mine.

* * *

I was hoping Wolf and I could go somewhere over spring break, but dad is home and wants me to stay. Mickey's school break came the week before ours. The second day of break, dad calls me into his study.

"Have you given any further thought to college?" He asks me.

"Yes, sir. I want to go to AU for a computer science degree."

"That field is becoming overcrowded, Aleric. I had hoped you would be inclined toward scientific research or medicine."

"I like computers and Wolf has taught me a lot."

"Your choice of a school is excellent. You may begin in computer science, but make a switch if you find some other area of equal interest. You won't lose more than a few credits if you change in the first two years as those are basic courses you'd be taking regardless of major."

"Thank you, sir."

"Do you wish to live on campus or here at home?"

"I hadn't thought about living on campus because housing is so short."

"Considerate of you. There will be students from places too far away for them to commute. You do realize that you'll be largely responsible for your own welfare. I'll be here and so will Annie, but Wolf will retire and go to his home in Carolina I should think."

"Yes, sir." After dad first told me Wolf would retire when I went to college I forgot about him leaving because I don't want him to. Mickey is my love, but Wolf is everything to me. I go up to my room to think.

Dinner is quiet. Immediately after, dad goes into his study, Wolf goes to his room to read or watch TV, and I go to mine to think some more. About eleven I go to Wolf's room and tap on the door then open it. Wolf's in bed watching the late news. He turns it off and asks, "What's wrong, Ric?"

I go across and prop up on pillows beside him. "Dad was talking to me about college."

"And?"

"I want to go to AU and take computer science. I'll be living here and commuting."

"Makes sense to me."

"Dad says you'll be leaving."

Wolf nods slowly. "Yeah. My boss made it clear he has no more use for a one-armed guy, so he's forcing me to take medical retirement. He'd have made me retire four years ago if it hadn't been for you and your father. Damn it, Ric, I'm too young to retire, and my income will suck but what can I do? I couldn't afford to go to college and there's no demand for the skills I've learned. I guess maybe I could get a job with a security firm, but with one hand they'd probably have me punching a time clock as a night watchman somewhere." I see tears rise in his eyes. "I'm worth more than that, buddy."

"Damn right you are! Don't your job carry some kind of education benefits?"

"I don't know. I never looked."

"Find out. If there is, stay here and go to school with me."

He shakes his head. "I'm too old now. I'm almost twenty-nine and you're still a kid. I'll be a drag."

Now I'm pissed. "Bullshit!" I yell. "My birthday's in two weeks and you know what you're giving me?"

He shakes his head which makes me madder.

"What you told me you'd give me four years ago. I'm gonna get it, too."

Wolf looks lost. "I've forgotten."

I grin. "I don't know how when I remind you every so often." I reach down and grope him.

Wolf's face turns bright red. "You still love me after all this time?"

"A dev like me don't give up. I fell in love with you that first day and I'm more in love with you than ever, Alex." It's the first time I remember ever using his given name. "You remember what 'grandfather' told you. He was the wisest man I ever knew."

"But what about Mickey?"

"He's a great guy and my best friend. We've had fun, but he's going away to school. We've agreed to stay friends, but that's all." I lean down and kiss Wolf the best I know how. "It's you I really love and nobody else."

Wolf hugs me to him and starts to cry. "Ric, I couldn't take advantage of you, but I tried to show you how much I loved you in every way I could. Taking care of you wasn't a job for me, it was love. I was glad when you found Mickey, and it made me happy that you could do so much for him, but it hurt when I could guess what you and he were doing and knowing I couldn't do the same with you. I thought maybe you loved him more than me. I could understand that because he's the same age as you and I'm ten years older. That's a lot of difference."

"It gets less important as we get older, but I love you, Alex. Say you'll show me how much you love me on my birthday. I've waited this long so I can wait for two weeks, cause I want to be with you for the rest of my life."

"How can we tell your father? He'll know."

"Let's see how he goes with your going to school with me and living here."

"For a while, but I can't lie to him. He's been too good to me."

For the first time in quite a while I sleep with Wolf's arms around me. It's just as wonderful and comforting as it has always been, maybe even more.

The next morning Wolf disappears early without saying anything. My old man is out, too, so I eat lunch in the dining nook that's part of the kitchen. I'm glad Annie eats with me so I have a chance to ask her something.

"Annie, are you going to retire when my father does?"

"Goodness no. Why did you think that?"

I shrug. "Maybe because Wolf's got to when I leave for school. I mean I don't even know who he and dad work for, but I figured you did too."

Annie smiles. "Don't worry your pretty head about it. Some men interviewed me and told me I had to do certain things before I came to work here, but I work for your father. 'Less he fires me, I plan on being around for a long time yet."

I get up and hug her. "I'm glad, Annie. I'll be going to college in the fall, but I'm going to keep living here." I smile. "Glad to know I'm gonna get to eat well, cause I can't cook worth a damn."

"Don't you worry, baby, Annie's gonna keep looking out for you. Maybe I shouldn't ask, but do you know where Wolf is going?"

"He was going back home to North Carolina, but I told him to find out if gets some kind of education benefit where he works. If he does, he's going to school with me and live here, too."

Annie's smile would light up the town. "Lord be praised! That Wolf is a mighty fine young man and he sure does think the world of you, Ric. Your father approve?"

"I don't know. If Alex can get in school then we'll talk to him." I can feel my eyes getting wet. "If he goes home, Annie, I'm going with him and try to get in a little school near by. Maybe he can, too."

She shakes her head. "Don't be leaving your father now, Ric. I know he ain't been home with you very much, but he loves you and he's some proud of you. It would kill him for sure if you was to leave just when he's come home to stay."

"He's nice and all that, but he doesn't spend much time with me. He still wants me to make an appointment when I need to talk to him."

"He's still working, baby, an' you gotta remember he's got to learn you like you gotta learn him. It ain't like with Wolf cause he's here all the time."

"I'll try. Thanks, Annie."

She pats my cheek when she gets up to clear the table. "You're a good boy, Ric."

I run down the minute I hear Wolf come in. He sure doesn't look happy when he goes into the den and mixes a stiff drink.

"What's wrong?" I ask.

"Sons of bitches," he mumbles and takes another slug of his drink.

"Who? The people at the college?"

He shakes his head. "My lousy fuckin' boss."

"What did he say?" I living dangerously pushing Wolf when he's in a bad mood, but this is important to me, too.

"He couldn't wait to be rid of my sorry cripple ass." Wolf tosses down the rest of his drink and fixes another just as big. He's never done this before.

"But ..."

"Let it rest, can't ya? Leave me alone."

I hightail it for my room cause I've never seen Wolf like this. It's not long before I hear my old man come in. The rule is I never bother him when he's in his study but I go down and knock on the door.

I hear "Come." and enter.

Dad looks up. "Aleric! I didn't expect you."

"Sorry to disturb you, father, but I need to talk to you like now. It's really important."

He drops some papers on his desk and looks at me. "What's the problem?"

"Wolf. He told me he might go see if he has any education benefits as part of his job. He went out this morning and came back about an hour ago and started tossing down stiff drinks and cussing. I asked what was wrong and he told me to leave him alone." I look squarely at dad. "I'm scared."

My old man frowns. "That's not like Wolf at all. Where is he?"

"In the den."

He puts the papers he was looking at in his desk drawer and locks it. "Go back to your room, son, and let me find out what's going on."

"Yes, sir.' When he starts by me, I hug him. "Thanks for being here when I need you, father."

He hugs me back and walks toward the den while I go back upstairs. I'd get killed if I got caught, but I sit on the top step where I can't be seen from downstairs and hope I can hear. I have never eavesdropped before, but I love Wolf.

"Wolf! Wake up." I hear dad say loudly.

"Huh?"

"Are you drunk? You reek."

"Go way."

I hear a hard slap and "Ow! What you do that for?"

"Get upstairs and take a cold shower to sober up, then I want you in my study immediately." Dad sounds pissed but good. "Aleric?" He yells.

"Sir." I run down the stairs. Wolf's cheek is red and dad is holding him up.

"Help Wolf upstairs and get him in a cold shower then get him a cup of coffee. When he's sober I want him in my study."

"Yes, sir." I grab Wolf's arm and drag him along.

"Fucked up good. Ssssorry, Ric."

I get him to his room and undress him with no problem. I just don't know how to get his hook off. He finally understands and slips out of the harness. I pull his T-shirt over his head and push him into the shower, turning the cold water on full.

"Oh, shit!" he yells and starts to get out, but I push him back. Now I know he's awake, I turn the hot water on and, taking off my clothes, get in with him. He just stands there while I wash him all over. It's the first time I've been able to touch his beautiful uncut meat. I'm disappointed when nothing happens while I'm washing it. He doesn't move or say anything until I have him out of the shower and drying him with a big towel.

I see tears in his eyes. "I screwed the pooch for sure this time." He reaches up and rubs my cheek with the back of his hand. "I'm sorry, cause I love you so much, Ric."

I grab his hand and kiss it. "Get dressed, cause the old man's waiting. No matter what, I love you and I'll find a way to be with you, Alex."

Soon as he's dressed and going down the stairs slowly, I go to my room. Dad's study is soundproof so I won't hear anything, even if I dared try.

I'm messing around with my computer when Annie knocks on my open door. "Your father wants you in his study, Ric." She looks upset, so I run down.

I knock on the door and open it. Dad looks upset and Wolf's sitting in a chair facing the desk with his face in his hand.

"Come in and shut the door, Aleric."

I do and he beckons for me to stand in front of his desk.

"Aleric, I want you to understand that I am not upset at you or Wolf, but I am going to ask you a question and I want the absolute truth. Are you gay and in love with Wolf?"

I wish I had a chair because I feel too weak to keep standing.

"I'm waiting," he says.

"Yes, sir."

"Is that yes, sir, because you know I'm waiting or is that the answer to my question?"

I gulp. "Both, sir."

He looks at me for what seems eternity before he points to the chair beside Wolf. I sit down gratefully.

"I had begun to suspect, Aleric, then Wolf told me he was very much in love with you. I'm happy you confirmed that you love him because I am going to be stomping on some sensitive toes in order to help him and, by extension, you. I would rather not, but your happiness means too much to me."

"What happened, sir?"

"Wolf was guaranteed funds for a year in any college he chose to attend for each year he worked at his job. When he inquired this morning, he was told he would receive only six months funding because that was all he was officially employed. That is a lie and pure bias because I was assured he was officially employed when he came to be with you. I received this assurance not once, but several times.

"I am delighted that Wolf wishes to attend school with you, Aleric, and he will do so. I can easily afford to send him, but this is a matter of principle. He was promised this benefit as a part of his employment, he has been continually employed for well over five years, and, by God, he will receive what is due him. I will take it to the Supreme Court if necessary. They have lied and tried to intimidate him, but they cannot lie to me with impunity and I do not intimidate."

Man is the old man pissed. I'm glad it's not at me.

"Aleric, while I didn't get much time with you while you were growing up, so I had dreams of playing with my grandchildren. But it seems that is not to be." He comes round his desk and takes Wolf's hand and mine in his. "I love you deeply, son, and now I have ... "he pauses and looks thoughtful "a son-in-law to love as well. Wolf, I ask only that you be good to Aleric and love him."

Wolf raises his eyes to meet dad's. "I will, sir, and thank you. Your understanding and support mean more to me than you will ever know."

Dad pulls us both up and hugs us both at the same time. "Go get ready for dinner. Wolf, get your application to AU in tomorrow morning. I'll make a few calls to speed things along so you and Aleric can register for classes and have the same classes and professors if possible."

"Thank you, sir."

I don't know what kind of pull my old man has, but at the university the next morning Wolf and I just look at each other when we report to the Registrar's office and get told we're already admitted. He sits down with us and lays out identical schedules for us. I write a check for Wolf's and my tuition and see our schedules entered into the computer. We decided to wait on texts until we see our professors in August.

When we get home, my old man's waiting. He takes the receipt for Wolf's tuition payment and tells me he's faxing a copy to the appropriate place and he'll hold it and mine so they won't get lost. Guess he's seen my desk.

After exams, I find out I missed being valedictorian by a couple of points, but I'll still graduate with honors. Dad's definitely pleased and says if Wolf hadn't made me study I'd probably not be graduating. I would, but it sure wouldn't be with honors if Walt was still around cause he didn't care.

The hot topic is the Junior-Senior. I know Wolf's gotta go with me, but he says there's no way he's putting on a tux and going as my date. I call Mickey and ask him.

"Damn, man, you comin' out now?"

"Why not? Hell, there's no way they can keep me from graduating; they wouldn't dare. And school's out so I ain't gonna get hassled."

"Takes more guts than I got."

"Go with me. I mean we've been lovers for two years now and you won't be around much longer. 'Sides, I know how to dance with you. I'll wear my steel-toed shoes so you won't hurt me when you step on my foot with your fake one."

Mickey giggles. "That's why I ain't goin' to mine. The pussies know about my foot so I couldn't get a date if I tried. I'd ask you to mine, but I wanna live to graduate, man."

"You gonna come with me?"

"Why not? It's your funeral." He raises the pitch of his voice. "Shall I wear my blue strapless, or my white hoop skirt, sir? I do want to look my best for such a distinguished gentleman as you."

I drop mine to a bass growl. "Best you wear your tux like a good dyke, cause you ain't got enough tits to hold up a strapless and you can't wear white in public cause you ain't been a virgin in years."

"Asshole," he says and hangs up laughing.

I'm not worried because we both own tuxes. I will have to remember to send him a boutonniere.

The night of the prom, I go to the door like I would for any date. His mom opens the door.

"Oh, Ric, how handsome you look. Let me get my camera cause you and Michael will look precious together."

Man, I wonder if a girl's mother would be as bad. Mickey does look great. Our tuxes are standard black, which my father said was the only acceptable color. He flings a fit when he sees one of those pastel jobs.

Mom Fox takes several pics before we can get out the door. Wolf's driving my old man's Beamer so we won't get rumpled. He looks awfully good in his black suit.

"Hi, Mickey. You're looking very nice. I'm glad you're Ric's date because I couldn't take all the hitting on you he's gonna do. I'm gonna be watching him close so he won't disgrace us."

"But if he hits on me you'll have to take us somewhere secluded to park after the dance."

"Son, the only place you're gonna park after the dance is in a bed, yours or Ric's. I suspect it's gonna be Ric's cause I'm told you're staying the night. Annie's fixed you some stuff to eat, too."

"Great!" Mickey loves Annie's cooking much as I do.

I ask Wolf to let us out at the door of the country club where it's being held, but he shakes his head and doesn't stop the car until he's parked. It really blows my mind when he puts a chauffeur's cap on when he gets out.

"What's with the cap?" Mickey asks him.

"Fancy school. Gotta make 'em think Ric and you are so important your chauffeur has to escort you in." He grins. "I gotta have some excuse to crash the party and stay inside."

"Oh, yeah. You did that at the club dance too."

Wolf nods. "Where Ric goes, I go, if it's not at home or someplace I know like your house, Mickey."

Just inside the door I hand my tickets to Mr. Smythe, the teacher on duty at the door. He looks surprised and jerks his head toward Mickey. "He's not one of our students, Nordwall."

"No, sir, he's my date."

Mr. Smyth almost drops his clipboard. "But ... but ..."

"You have a problem with that?" Wolf asks harshly.

"It's most irregular. I'll have to consult the headmaster." He looks at Wolf again. "Who are you?"

"Nordwall's chauffeur and bodyguard. I'll be watching the guys every minute."

"I ... I ..."

It's getting funny cause poor old Smythe don't know whether to shit or go blind. He finally just shakes his head and waves us on in.

We find a table and sit down. Wolf's grinning. "You guys may make school history tonight."

"Hey, there's a first time for everything," I say.

The band starts a slow number so I drag Mickey out on the floor and we dance. I hear a few comments, but most don't pay any attention to us. When it's over, we walk back to our table hand in hand.

I'm about to go get us cups of punch, but my way is blocked by Brock. Every school has its physically big and mentally tiny bully and Brock's ours. I see Wolf pull his sleeve up and push something on the side of his plastic arm.

"Always figured you for a fag, Nordwall." He nods toward Mickey. "Sweet of ya to bring your favorite piece of pussy to the dance. Why don't you be good little girls and run on home before you get hurt?"

Brock may be bigger than me and Wolf put together, but I start to draw back my fist. Wolf pulls me aside and faces Brock. "You having some sort of problem, dude?"

"What's it to ya? I don't like queers."

"You're half drunk and the evening has just gotten started. If anybody goes home, why don't you, and sleep it off, sonny boy."

"Fuck, ya. I'm gonna whip Nordwall's pansy ass."

"I hardly think so." Wolf holds out his hook and it isn't the hook he uses around the house.

"You think that hook makes you tough?" Brock sneers. "After I stomp pansy ass here, you're next." He reaches out and grabs Wolf's hook. I see Wolf's arm flex then Brock screams so loud everybody hears him over the band.

He's doubled over holding his right hand with his left and sobbing "Shit, shit."

Wolf motions for Mickey and me to sit down. It's only a minute before the headmaster has his hand on Brock's arm.

"What's wrong, son?"

Brock just mumbles "Hurts like hell."

"Let me see." Dr. Breakstone lifts Brock's arm and looks at it. "I don't see anything." When he turns it loose, it falls to Brock's side, hanging limply. Brock holds it up with his other hand again.

Breakstone looks at us. "Did you see what happened?"

"Nordwall was about to go get some refreshments for his date when this young man accosted him and began making threats."

"And you are?" Breakstone looks Wolf over and frowns. "I don't believe you are connected with the academy in any way, in which case you don't belong here."

I stand. "This is my bodyguard, sir. He accompanies me everywhere."

"I was unaware you needed such protection, Nordwall."

"Only away from home or school, sir."

"I see." He looks back at Wolf. "Did you attack Brock or not? If so I shall report you to Mr. Nordwall."

"I did not. I detected the odor of alcohol on his breath so I merely asked him to go home and sleep it off. When he tried to strike Nordwall, I simply deflected his hand with my prosthesis. Any pain would have been minor and momentary."

"Ah, yes. I'll have the proctors assist Brock. Has your date gone to the ladies room, Nordwall?"

"No, sir." I smile at Breakstone then point to Mickey. "May I present Michael Fox. My date, sir."

Mickey stands and holds out his hand. "Nice to meet you, Dr. Breakstone."

Breakstone stands there with his eyes getting bigger and bigger and his mouth opening and closing like a goldfish's. Finally he staggers off without saying anything.

"Frightfully rude man," Mickey says in a prissy tone.

Wolf tries to stifle a snicker.

I go to get us punch and plates of finger sandwiches and hardly get back before I see another big guy headed our way. I look at Wolf, then recognize the guy as one of those who belongs to the gay group. He comes up and slaps me on the back.

"Damn. You've got guts, Ric. Old Breakstone got back to the teacher's table babbling so bad nobody could figure out what he was tryin' to say. When I looked over here I knew. Anyway, he was so bad the coach figured he was sick and took him home." He touches two fingers to his forehead and swings them forward in a salute. "Good luck, guys. Wish I'd brought my guy instead of my cousin."

Though his eyes remain watchful, Wolf settles back and watches us all have fun. Most of the other students give Mickey and me plenty of space like maybe being gay is catching, but the space comes in handy when you can't dance any better than the two of us. Mickey finally plants his fake foot on top of mine as I knew was bound to happen, so I bend him back in an exaggerated dip and sneak a kiss hoping nobody noticed.

"Hey, that's ballroom stuff," one of the guys says to me. "Where'd you learn that?"

I look at him smugly. "By attending adult gatherings, not obscure tribal rites or indulging in the praise of Saint Vitus as you appear to have been doing."

"Huh?"

I know I should be ashamed of mocking people unfortunate enough to suffer from Sydenham's chorea, but how can I miss a golden opportunity to intellectually snow a jock who's always bad-mouthing gays? Mickey and I don't attempt the kinds of dance kids our age try, I'd not call it dancing. Mickey's chuckling as we walk back to our table leaving the jock staring at his girl with a blank expression. She obviously has no clue as to what I meant either.

* * *

Graduation is anti-climactic. My father and Wolf, of course, are there as are Mickey and mom and pop Fox. I feel incredibly stupid in the blue cap and gown wishing it were the traditional black and this was my college graduation ceremony. Worse is enduring the picture taking after suffering through dull speeches that seemed endless. Mom Fox is determined to take all she can. If she's this bad at my graduation, I dread to think what Mickey's will be like a week from now. I'd kill to kick my shoes off and toss down a beer.

I finally get home and get my wish, so I'm kind of pissed when my old man tells me to put some shoes on and come out to the garage with him. There's no reason I can see since his car is always serviced at the dealers and Wolf's is on the other side. When I get up reluctantly, he hands me a graduation card with a note saying how proud he is of me. I can't figure this, cause he already gave me a set of luggage for graduation. He said I'd need one piece of it when I go with Wolf to his cabin for a couple of weeks right after Mickey graduates. If he weren't going to school with me, Wolf would be packing to move back home because I'm no longer his responsibility.

I noticed dad left his Beamer in the drive when we got home so I figure he's going out. When he opens the door to the garage I see Wolf's Mercedes. "What am I supposed to see, sir? That's Wolf's car."

He shakes his head slowly. "A high school graduate and he's not learned to observe."

"Huh?" Then I correct myself. "Sir?" Huh doesn't get it with dad.

"Go look at it more closely."

Good thing he's retiring, the old man must be losing his grip. I walk over to it and then it hits me, the taillights don't look right and the deck is more rounded. Shit! This is a brand new one! I look at dad questioningly. Wolf's standing behind him.

"You're kidding?"

Dad smiles. "Not at all. You have admired Wolf's so much that I thought you might like one now that you're free to drive alone."

When I can move I run to him and hug him. "Oh, thank you, sir. Thank you. This is ... it's ... oh, wow!"

He hugs me back. "I'm proud of you, son, and I love you." He messes my hair. "I even approve of your choice of a long term companion, though I hope you can work past the age differential."

Damn! He knows it's Wolf and not Mickey I'm really in love with. I look at Wolf and see him nodding.

"I told you I'd not keep secrets from your father, Ric. With the change in my status and yours, now that he has retired your father and I have had a long discussion I felt was due."

"Wolf is correct, son. He feels as deeply for you as I, though in a different way, obviously. You are now an adult in the eyes of the law so you are free to make your own decisions and bear responsibility for your acts. You will still need advice and guidance from time to time and I will be glad to help you, but the greater responsibility is now Wolf's by the virtue of being the older partner in your relationship. I have all confidence in his ability to continue the superb job he's done since he came to be with us."

Dad's words make me feel like Alex and I have had a wedding ceremony. I hug dad again then kiss Wolf, one he returns.

I was right. By the time Mickey's graduation is over I'm tempted to grab the film from mom Fox's purse and expose it to light so she won't have any more to shoot. The big thing in their house is getting Mickey off to college in two days. He wants to make the summer semester so he can get used to the place when there aren't so many students running around.

The next night we all go out for a farewell dinner for him and I stay over. It's not 'sad it's gonna be over until holidays' sex, but loving. Then we talk about remaining best friends but not exclusive sex partners. Mickey knew from the first I'd never love him like I do Wolf, though he runs a close second. The next morning we kiss and I take off to get some gas before going home. Wolf and I are leaving for his cabin tomorrow and driving my car.

I let Wolf drive until we're well out of the miserable urban traffic. When we change I find what a joy it is to lock in the cruise control at 75 and roll along. Wolf looks no older than the first day I saw him and he's one guy can wear a baseball cap and look totally cool. I think I look stupid in one, but he made me put one on to keep my face from getting sunburned. Only the village idiot would have a sports car and keep the top up on a day like this.

We break the trip by spending the night in a motel. I wanted to push on, but Wolf said we'd need time to open the place, shop for food and all that sort of stuff. I can't argue when I'm snuggled against him in bed.

Though it's been a year since I was here with Wolf, I can see why he always wants to come back. The quiet and the freshness of the air is unbelievable after the city. I would be happy to live here forever, but there's no place near that needs guys with computer science degrees. After we get all the little things done, we crack a beer and relax.

I don't push Wolf, but I'm beginning to get hard up and wonder if we're going to ever make love as we haven't so far. That night, to my disappointment, we only cuddle again. When I mention it the next morning he kisses me and tells me to be patient, he's waiting until the signs are auspicious. Sounds screwy to me, like something grandfather would say.

And that's what he had in mind because we're in my car headed up the trail to his house. He looked so old before I'm wondering if he's still alive. Wolf stands in the door, me beside him.

There are a few moments then the quavery voice says, "Little Wolf, you seek wisdom."

"O'siypo, grandfather. That is true."

"This time the young one is beside you, not behind you."

"It is so."

"Come, sit, and let us speak."

Wolf punches me with his stump and I say what he told me. "I greet you, grandfather." Then we walk over and take chairs near him.

As last time, there is a small fire on the hearth though it's hot outside. When we are seated and quiet, the old man takes a pinch of something from a bowl on the table by his chair and tosses it directly into the fire. The flames blaze up for a second then die down. There's a pungent smell left.

The old man's blind eyes look intently into the fire then he finally speaks. "The young one has been patient many moons waiting for you to declare your love, Little Wolf. Such patience is good for an Indian, but difficult for a white man. This proves his love for you. You have kept the law, but driven the young one to make love with another. Now he waits once more. It is time, Little Wolf. His heart is pure. He is worthy. Delay no longer."

"I heed your words with joy, grandfather."

The old man nods and Wolf and I leave as quietly a possible. In the car, Wolf leans over and kisses me before starting the engine and driving away. When he stops the car at the cabin, he hugs me.

"I don't know what I did to deserve you, Ric, but I love you more than life itself."

"I know what you did, Wolf."

"What?"

"You befriended a lonely boy who was younger than his years, protected and nurtured him, and are now willing to commit your life to him. I'm not much of a reward for all you did, but it's got you all the love I can ever have for anyone."

That night Wolf holds out his arms to me when we're ready for bed. I didn't know what to expect from Wolf, but he's so gentle and loving that when it's over and we're lying with our arms around each other, I'm crying from joy. Then I feel Wolf's tears as he hugs me closer.

Now that I'm no stranger to real love, I can think of our future together with joy.

It was worth the wait.