Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:56:38 -0700 From: David Courson Subject: Quarterback with the Emerald Eyes - Part 13 This story is fiction. Any similarity to any persons living or dead is merely a coincidence. If you are not allowed by law to view this material, please do not do so. If you are under 18 years of age, please leave now. This is a love story between two barely under the age of 18 year old boys in high school. If that offends you, I apologize and ask that you not read any further. Otherwise, enjoy. Check out the Quarterback Yahoo group. There are photos of guys who you might think Blake or Todd looks like. Submit a picture of how you see the boys or just post your own picture in the members section. There are polls and just general messages. Please check it out at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Quarterback_with_the_Emerald_Eyes/ I also want to thank Stephen and Vann for helping me with the story. After I write it, they read it over and find all my stupid little mistakes to make it an easier and better read for you guys. So to you two; Thanks for everything, guys. And to George, thanks for keeping up with the group. Without you, it probably wouldn't be as successful as it is. You're the best. Quarterback with the Emerald Eyes -- Part 13 The following day was a lazy day, and we hung around the house with the parents and relaxed, or tried to until I remembered it was Saturday and we needed to see Pax. When I did remember, I ran to the clock and saw I had about an hour before I needed to be there. When I told Todd, he said he'd come with me if I wanted his company. I said I would, but he didn't need to if he didn't want. Todd and I left around 12:30 and got to Pax's about one, as usual. When we arrived, he had lunch waiting for us. We sat and ate baked ham, corn on the cob, potato salad, and sweet tea. He was happy to see us both and asked how our relationship was going. I told him a few things, and then Todd jumped in and told a few things. He sat and listened until Todd mentioned the prom. "What do you mean you're not going to the prom?" he asked, looking at me. "Before you jump down my throat, I've been reconsidering it, and I think I might go after all." "Since when?" Todd asked. "Since Mrs. Thompson told me not to worry about the little things. If I do, the big things won't matter 'cause they won't be worth much." "Huh?" Todd asked. "Basically, if I worry about people watching us the whole night and don't go, I'll regret not going for a stupid reason when I get older. Or at least, that's the message I got from her." "She sounds like a smart teacher to me," Pax said. "Yeah, she's pretty great." "So, what have you decided about the prom? I mean, have you made a definite decision yet?" Todd asked. "I'm leaning towards going. What about you? Do you want to go?" "What ever you want to do, I'll do." "That's not an answer, Todd. What do you want to do?" Pax asked. "Yeah," I agreed. "I would like to go 'cause it's my last year, but I don't want to go alone, and I don't want you to go just to please me if it would make you feel uncomfortable." "Well, Kelly's going. So if nothing else, I can always talk and dance with her if Howie won't mind. I just don't know if you and I will be able to dance together." "Why not?" Todd asked. "What if the chaperones won't allow it?" "Fuck `em," Pax said. "Exactly. I mean, what could they do, throw us out?" Todd asked. "Yeah, they could," I said. "So be it then. I won't care. I just want to be with you, no matter what we do. But if you want to go, you need to decide by Tuesday 'cause that's the last day for tickets, seeing as how the prom's on Friday." "I'll let you know by tomorrow or Monday for sure." After this discussion, Todd and I helped Pax clean up, then he suggested, instead of a movie, we grab some cards and a board game or two and head to the park. Since it was a nice day with the breeze blowing and a cloudless sky, Todd and I happily agreed. Pax grabbed a small cooler, filled it with drinks, picked up the games we agreed on, and headed across the street to the park. We spent all afternoon laughing, talking, and beating the crap out of each other in penny poker. All in all, it was a great day. As one of our last games of cards was being played, I asked how things were going in Pax's love life. "Funny you should mention that. There's a guy I've been talking to for a couple weeks now. His name's Tristian." "Oh really," I said, teasing him. "Where'd you meet him, in the park?" As I smiled, Pax gave me that eat shit look and answered, "As a matter of fact, yes, and before your mind gets in the gutter, I met him because he was out walking his dogs and taking pictures of the park." "Did you invite him over to your place," again, in that teasing tone. "Listen, you little fuck, just 'cause I tried that trick on you doesn't make me a whore," he said smiling big. I laughed, and Todd looked utterly confused. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. So start over, how did you meet?" I said, giving him my full attention. "Like I said, he was taking pictures of the park while his two dogs were playing. I commented on the dogs, and we just started talking. He's just moved from Seattle, obviously, he's a photographer, a little older than me, salt and pepper hair, and very handsome." "Why'd he leave Seattle?" Todd asked. "He wanted to get out of the rain," Pax explained. "I told him we had rain and thunderstorms here, but he said at least it wasn't nine months out of the year. Plus, he said he had photographed everything there was in Seattle and the surrounding areas, and he wanted something new for his pictures." "So he picked Georgia?" I asked. "Yeah, I asked the same question. He now knows what it feels like to have major heat with major humidity." "Is he surviving?" I asked. "Barely, but he's making it. He thanks God everyday for air conditioning. We have a date for tomorrow, by the way." "Your first date?" Todd asked. "No, it's our second." "Had any fun yet?" I said, smiling. "God you're a little bitch sometimes," Pax said to me. "Tell me about it," Todd said, agreeing, but smiling. "Hey," I said, hitting his arm. "You know I love ya though," he said, wrapping his arm around my head and pulling me to him. "You better," I said, smiling at Pax. Pax smiled and watched us for a minute before I asked him what he was thinking. "You two remind me of myself at your age. Maybe just a little older." "How?" I asked, pulling myself out of Todd's grip and started shuffling the cards for the next round." "My first boyfriend and I used to play with each other like that. Oh he was a pistol, that one. He was the first guy I fell in love with." "So what happened? Where is he today?" I asked. "Don't know. He and I broke up after four years, and he just left. No word goodbye, no fuck you, no nothing. He just moved out, and a week later he disappeared." "Did y'all fight or something?" "We started sniping at each other, a lot. Finally, we had had enough and he left. I missed him for years. Still do sometimes, but it wasn't meant to be I guess." "So," Todd started, "do you think Tristian might be the one?" "Honey, at my age, everybody's the one until it ends. Hell, I can fall in and out of love in a heartbeat. I see a cute guy, and I fall in love. He walks away, I never see him again, and my heart breaks." "That's not good for you, Pax," I said. "I know, but I just feel at my age I won't find the one anymore." "Don't look at it like that. There's got to be someone out there for you. You just have to wait until it happens." "I guess I'm just tired of waiting. I mean, I have all the money I'll ever need, and I don't do a damn thing with it. I know things aren't about money, but if I had someone to share it with, we'd be on vacations, I'd shower him with gifts, and just little things that would make me happy. All I want to do is find a guy who I can love and for him to love me back just the same." I reached over and placed my hand on top of his. "Pax, you'll find him sooner or later. You're an amazing person. The love and caring you showed me when I got kicked out; offering a place for me to live, feeding me on Saturdays and letting me do my laundry; I was lucky you found me. When the right man comes along, he'll be very lucky." "Thanks, baby. I just hope I don't have to wait until forever before it happens." "I don't think you will. Who knows, Tristian might be the one." "Yeah, you never know. But I'm not getting my hopes up either." We finished up our poker game with Todd being the winner. He had three dollars of pennies and stuffed them in his pocket. Pax and I gave him a strange look. "What?" he asked seeing our faces. "You know, that's our play money. You don't get to keep it," Pax explained. "I'm not going to keep it, but we gotta carry it back to the house, right?" "Whatever," Pax said smiling, thinking Todd had changed his story at the last minute. After we said our goodbyes to Pax, we headed back to our house. On the way, I made up my mind. "Okay, let's go to the prom." Todd looked at me out of the corner of his eye and asked, "What did that teacher say to you to make you change your mind that was different from what I said?" Looking at Todd, I said, "She told me what I said earlier and that if I needed anyone at school I could come to her with any problems I might have." "So essentially, she's gonna look after you?" "No, not look after, but she actually has the power to do something if I get picked on or discriminated against." "Well, Ryan, Jessie, Howie, and Derik can do the same thing, only they'd beat the shit out of whoever did it." "But that's exactly what I don't want. Why should I have them fight for me? If it goes that far, and I have to fight, I want to be able to defend myself. If there is more than one, then I wouldn't care if the guys jumped in to help. This way, if things haven't gotten that far, I can tell Mrs. Thompson about it, and she could do something or at least keep an eye out." "I understand your point; you don't want any violence unless it's unavoidable." "Exactly. That's why when school's out, I'm going to start working out with you to build up my lanky frame and get some muscle." "It's gonna be tough. I want you to know that from the start. I'll be getting up at five every morning and go running. Then about three times a week, I'll be going to the gym." "Five? As in A.M.?" I said, shocked. "That's what in the morning means," he said, smiling at me. "Oh God," I said, leaning back into my seat. "Don't worry. I won't run your ass off in the beginning." "But why so early?" "First, it's still cool at that time, and second, I am going back to the Discovery store for the summer." "You're going to stay away from that bathroom, right?" "You have nothing to worry about there. I've already hooked the catch of a lifetime." For the rest of the afternoon, we relaxed and hung out with the parents. I caught myself staring at Don and Mrs. Blyth while watching TV. With me finding Todd, and his parents coming into my life and taking me in, it made me feel like the luckiest guy in the world. I understood that it had to have been fate that brought this family into my life, for without them, I would still be on the streets, or maybe living with Pax, which could've been fun. When it was time to get dinner started, we headed into the kitchen to do our part. Todd was sitting at the island, talking to us while his mom was cooking, and Don and I were washing and drying the dishes. I couldn't remember what I said, but before I knew it, Don's wet hands had me by the neck and he was giving me a noogie. With one arm wrapped around my neck and his wet knuckles digging into my scalp, I was laughing so much and didn't realize what I said. "Ahhh, dad, stop. You're getting my hair wet." Silence engulfed the room, save for the popping of the homemade fried chicken that was cooking, and I looked around and asked what was wrong. "You did it again," Todd said. "Did what?" I asked "You just called me dad," Don said. "I did?" I asked. "Yeah." "I'm sorry about that," I said, looking at the floor. "Hey, there's nothing to be sorry about. If you're comfortable, I don't mind." I felt strange calling someone other than my own father dad, but I thought about the fact that he was acting like my father. He even got on to me a few times since I moved in about leaving things out of place or not getting the assigned chores done. That's what a dad does, right? I thought for another moment and said, "I guess I could. I might slip up and call you Don, but dad seems to fit the bill." Watching the conversation, Christine said, "And you can call me mom if you want." "Thanks," I said, smiling at her. I figured that would probably be easier since my mother had been acting like she had. Since I never have had any interaction with my father since the day before my mother kicked me out, I really can't say how he feels. My hope is that my mother manipulated the situation with my father and if he really knew the truth, he would accept me. My greatest fear is that if or when I do ask him about it, he will completely agree with my mom. After we had dinner and watched a little more TV, Don and Christine decided to turn in at the same time. As they were leaving, Todd told them good night. I figured I might as well try the new titles and said, "Night mom. Night dad." Smiling, they both looked back and told us to sleep well. After they were gone, I moved over and sat in Todd's lap and put my arms around his neck. "I've never seen them go to bed at the same time before." "Yeah, it probably is an early day for both of `em tomorrow." "Are you sure they aren't going to do it?" I asked, smiling big. "Ewww. Too much information!!! I told you before; I don't want to think about it." I started laughing, and Todd, getting me back for the image in his head, started tickling me. After a few minutes of playing, he stopped, and I relaxed. I leaned in and gave him a kiss. "I love you," I said. "Not as much as I love you," he replied. "C'mon, let's hit the hay. One week left before we're done with school. Don't want to fuck it up now." "Okay," I said standing and grabbing his hand. The following week started and Todd bought two tickets to the prom. When I told Kelly, she was thrilled. She couldn't wait to see us in our tuxedoes. "I bet you two will be the best looking couple there," she said. "Todd, yes, but me, I don't know. I've never worn a tux before." Kelly got on to me about downing myself, but then changed the subject. Tuesday morning, in homeroom, there was an announcement made over the school PA system. `The ballots have been tallied, and the prom king and queen have been chosen. To find out who they'll be, don't forget to get your prom tickets. Today is the last day to buy.' On Wednesday, Todd and I went to the mall and got the tuxedoes we were going to wear with dark green cumber buns and bowties to match. He wanted blue but I won out by batting my eyes at him, and he caved. On Thursday, Todd had an appointment to get his car fixed and repainted, so I followed him to the body shop to leave his car, and then we headed to school. It wasn't scheduled to be ready for pickup until we got out of school on Friday. He told me that it better be ready or he was gonna be yelling at someone. I laughed at him for being so negative, but grabbed his hand while I drove. On Friday afternoon, we headed to the body shop, and sure enough, it was like brand new. Todd saw it and almost couldn't speak. They'd done a great job of sanding the body and giving it a new paint job. "Wow," was all he could come up with. Pulling out a check which his dad had signed, he filled in the blanks and handed it over. The week went by fast for everyone. All the finals were out of the way, and now only one thing stood in the way of graduation for the seniors: Prom!! It was being held in a ballroom at a local hotel, and there was a package that included dinner in the restaurant. Todd and I passed on that and decided to go somewhere fairly inexpensive for dinner in our tuxes. We had some strange looks, but it didn't bother us. Being in midtown, two guys eating together was no big deal; two guys in tuxedoes was another story. When we were done eating, we had about an hour to kill before the prom officially kicked off. We didn't want to be the first ones there, nor the last, so we decided about thirty to forty five minutes after starting time, we'd make our entrance. After wasting time around Ansley Mall, we headed to the hotel and found parking on the seventh level of the garage. Heading to the entrance, I couldn't help but fidget, and Todd noticed. "What's wrong?" he asked me. "Just nervous," I answered. "Don't be. Things are gonna be fine." "What if they start staring?" "They're gonna stare, but I think it'll be because they want to see the best looking guy dressed in a tux." "They'll see you, but they'll be staring at us." "Would you stop doing that?" He put his hand on my arm to stop me from walking. Grabbing my arms on the biceps, he said, "You are the best looking guy here tonight. I don't care what anyone else says." Running his fingers through my hair to straighten it out, he said, "Just don't let it get to you. If they stare, let `em. Let's just have a good time tonight, okay?" I smiled knowing that he was right. What was the reason for my nervousness other than people watching me? I took a deep breath and said, "Okay. Let's have fun." He leaned in for a quick peck, but before his lips could touch mine my cell phone rang. I closed the distance for the kiss then answered the phone. "Where are you?" Kelly asked. "In the hotel. We're on our way." "Hurry, will ya? I can't wait to see you two." Laughing, I said, "Okay, okay. We're coming. Be there in a minute." I placed the phone back in my pocket, and we started walking towards the ballroom. Coming around the corner, we saw a lot of students all decked out. Looking through the sea of faces, Kelly and I spotted each other at the same time. She pulled Howie behind her as she came over to us. "Oh wow. You two look amazing," she said with a big smile. "Well, thanks," Todd said, grabbing his lapels and giving a small bow. Standing there in her peach, strapless, floor length gown, I said, "And you look stunning." "Thanks," she said, smiling and turning towards Howie. "Dude, you guys look great," he said. "Same back at ya, big guy," Todd said and shook his hand. "Okay, you ready to get inside?" Kelly asked. Taking a deep breath, I said, "Yeah." Kelly turned and wrapped her arm around Howie's arm, and I looked at Todd, confused. "Don't worry. You don't have to take my arm. We'll just walk together." "Cool," I said. As we walked, I reached over and grabbed his hand and held it tight. So far, so good. Only a couple of glances our way, but no one was staring yet. When we got to the entrance to the ballroom, there were several adults waiting. As we passed through, we saw a table for collecting tickets. Todd took the lead and stepped a couple inches before me while still having hold of my hand. Reaching in his breast pocket, he produced two tickets to hand to principal Rudd. "I'm sorry Mr. Blyth, but I can't allow the two of you in as a couple." At that moment, I was talking with Kelly when I heard that statement and snapped my head around. "Why not?" I asked. "Because, Mr. Moore, it's not accepted at Carter High." "But that's not fair. They've already bought the tickets," Kelly cut in, walking around us to face Mrs. Rudd. "Young lady, this is none of your concern." "These two are my friends; I think that makes it my concern." "Well, you're mistaken then. Please go on into the ballroom for the dance, Ms. Marx." Kelly was about to respond when I touched her arm. "It's fine Kelly. Don't worry about it." Looking at Todd, I said, "Where's my ticket?" Todd handed one to me and I looked at Mrs. Rudd and said, "Well, it looks like I'm going stag. Don't think Carter High would have a problem with that, huh?" "Yeah, same with me," Todd said, handing over his ticket. Mrs. Rudd was not happy, but knew she couldn't do anything about it. She took the tickets from us, and we headed into the ballroom with Kelly and Howie following close behind. Once inside, there were decorations everywhere. The theme was `A Night to Remember'. There were streamers of the school colors, red, blue and gold, coming from each of the three chandeliers down to the walls, a walkway from the entrance to about half the room. The back half was filled with tables on either side of the walkway and the front half of the room was the dance floor. Up on stage, stuck to one side, was a DJ playing all the current music of the day. The music was loud enough to enjoy, but not so loud as to have to scream. To the front left of the tables was the refreshment stand. There were little finger foods and a huge bowl of punch. Kelly suggested we sit for a few minutes and watch the crowd, and Howie and Todd went to get some refreshments for us. "I can't believe principal Rudd wouldn't let you guys in." "I can't either, I just hope its cause she's so old fashioned that she hadn't caught up with the times yet?" "Why?" "'Cause, if she was up with the times in today's world, she really needs to get over herself and realize there are a lot of different people out there. I mean, she can't go around thinking that there are only straight people; I mean, she has to know." "I guess you're right. She is ancient, but still, to be a principal and not allow you two to come in as a couple is just stupid." "Just set in her ways, I guess. But we're in now, so let's not let her ruin our night, okay?" "You got it," she said as the boys returned with some punch. "I was gonna bring back some of the food, but it tasted horrible," Todd said. "What was it?" Kelly asked. "I don't know. I thought it was a peanut butter thing or something like it, but it turned out to be some burnt cheese puff or something." "Oh gross." She and I both gave a face of disgust. After the boys sat and Todd grabbed my hand under the table, Paige and her date came over to say hi. "Wow Paige, you look wonderful. And that dress is beautiful," Kelly said. "Thanks. My grandmother made it for me." "Oh wow. That's even better. It's so . . . old fashioned. Just gorgeous." "Thanks. She asked me what I wanted. I told her a simple dress, and she came up with this." Paige had on an off white, lacy floor length gown. The best way I could describe it would probably be an old wedding gown, but with more lace and ruffles. It had short sleeves and the front and back dipped to about the same level; just above the cleavage line. Very classy. "I looked at a dress like that, but it was a little pricey. I couldn't afford it," Paige said. "This dress was a steal. It didn't cost that much at all," Kelly offered. "Really? Where'd you get it?" she asked as she took a seat next to Kelly. Paige's date, Jason, asked, "Paige, would you like something to drink?" Looking back, she said, "Thanks, Jason. That would be great." She took his hand and squeezed it, and once he stepped away, turned back to her conversation with Kelly. "Jason, hold up. I'll come with you," Todd offered. Left were the two girls, Howie, and myself. I looked over at Howie and said, "Girls. When they get together it's either about boys or fashion." "Yeah, tell me about it. When we go out to the mall, she has to window shop every store." Without stopping her conversation, Kelly back handed Howie's chest and gave me an eat shit and die look. Howie and I both laughed as they continued their talk. A few moments later, the guys returned, and Jason took the seat between Paige and myself. After making Paige aware of his return, he looked at me and asked, "So how are things with you?" "Me? Not bad. School's almost over; passed all my finals." Turning to Todd, I said, "I got a ninety seven on my math final, by the way." Turning back to Jason, I said, "Everything with me is great. How about you?" "Not bad. Passed my finals and finally got Paige to agree to the prom," he said, winking at Todd like an inside joke or something. "Got a job lined up for the summer and my scholarship info came for college." "Cool. What's the scholarship for?" "Football. My dream is to end up in the NFL, but I gotta start off slow." "What college?" "Auburn. It's close to home, and I've loved them since I can remember." "That's great, Jason. I told you you had nothing to worry about," Todd said. "Yeah, well, was still nervous." "What about you Todd? Where're you going, or have you decided?" Howie asked. "I've applied to a couple colleges. GSU, of course, but I really want to go to NYU." This was the first I had heard of it. I looked at Todd and said, "NYU? You never told me about New York." "Well, I don't know if I got accepted yet, but I am hoping. I've wanted to go there for a long time." "Why?" "Well, it's New York City, for one. What better way to get to live there than go to college. It's way too expensive to live there outside the dorms, and this way I can say that I once lived in New York." "Yeah, but won't it be expensive in the dorms, too?" "Yeah, but I'm hoping I get some financial help with scholarships." I turned my head back and looked at the table. Todd finished his question from Howie and then asked if I was okay. "Yeah, it's just . . . New York City is just so far away." "I know, and I had these plans before we got together. It's just that I've wanted to go to NYU since I was like thirteen or so. I really don't want us to fall apart or anything, but it's been a dream of mine for so long." Looking back at him, I said, "I don't want you to have to give up your dream for me or anyone, I just never really thought about you and college before now. I mean, I assumed you would go, but just not so far away." "Well, I'm not gone yet. I haven't even been accepted yet, so don't let it bring down the night, okay?" "I won't, I just don't think I could live a whole year with out you around though." "Well, I'll be home for Christmas and Spring Break. We'll talk all the time, and I'll show you how to use instant messenger on the computer. It'll be just like I never left." I gave him a crazy look and said, "Believe me, if you're gone for more than a week, I'll be able to feel it, if nothing else." "Well, yeah, there's that," he said, leaning in closer and smiling. "Maybe we can get some webcams," he suggested and raised his eyebrows. Pulling away, he said, "C'mon, let's dance." "But I don't know how," I said. "All you have to do is move your body. It doesn't matter how it looks, if you call it dancing, then it's dancing." "Why don't we all go? We don't want bitch Rudd trying to start something else," Howie suggested. "What?" Paige asked. Kelly explained what happened, and Page turned a bright red with anger. "I can't believe she did that shit." "Well, we're in the dance now, so let's dance," Todd said. The table got up, and we all went over to a clearing on the floor and danced as a group, not one on one. I looked around and found a few chaperones and Mrs. Rudd watching us, but since we were in a group dancing with everyone, there really wasn't much they could do. After about twenty minutes, we all called for a break and headed back to the table for a breather. I headed over to the punch and got six glasses and carried them as carefully as possible back to the table. When I got there, Jason and Todd grabbed two glasses each and distributed them to the others. We sat and talked and enjoyed the music. Other guys from the team stopped by to say hi, and some introduced their dates from other schools. Most of the girls from my school I had seen but didn't know their names. When they all realized that Todd and I were together, they didn't care. Some thought it was cool that a gay couple had the balls to attend and were supportive. Just around the nine `o'clock hour, the DJ announced that there would be two slow dances before the announcement of the king and queen. Kelly looked at Howie and he nodded his head towards the floor as he smiled at her. Jason asked Paige if she'd like to dance, and she gracefully accepted. When they were gone, Todd looked at me and smiled. "What?" I asked. "Nothing. Just looking at your handsome face in that tuxedo. You're very sexy, you know." "Whatever," I said, rolling my eyes. "You did it again," he said, exasperated. Leaning towards me, he continued, "I wish you'd stop doubting yourself. You're the smartest, best looking, funniest, bitchiest person I know." "Hey," I said, and threw a balled up napkin at him and laughed. "You always doubt any compliment that comes your way, especially when it's from me when I mention your looks." "I'm sorry, but I've never been good at accepting them. No one's ever given me compliments on my looks before you. It just makes me feel strange." "But you know I love you. Why would I tell you something I didn't mean?" "You wouldn't. I know that, but, like I said, I never got any compliments before you." Putting his hand on my knee, he said, "Just do me a favor and take my compliments for what they are and don't throw them away." I put my hand on top of his and said, "I won't. I promise." Todd looked around and told me to do the same. "What am I looking for?" "There aren't any stares," he said. I looked harder and noticed he was right. Either we hadn't been in the middle of any action or people already looked and didn't care anymore. "I hadn't even noticed." "And you were worried." He smiled at me and leaned in for a quick kiss. Pulling back, he scanned the crowd again, and still nothing. No stares, no snickers, and best of all, no principal. "C'mon," he said, extending his hand. "I want to dance a slow dance with you." "Okay, but maybe we shouldn't hold hands right now. Let's get in the middle of everyone then we can touch. I don't want Mrs. Rudd seeing us." "Deal," he said and stood. I did the same and followed him into the crowd. We spotted Kelly and Howie and near them were Paige and Jason. There was a clearing just big enough for two more people, and Todd wrapped his arms around me and pulled me close. We danced and had a wonderful minute or so before Todd pulled away from me and turned around. "I've already told you there will be none of that," principal Rudd said. "But he's my boyfriend. I just want one dance," he said in a pleading tone. "I'm sorry; it's not going to happen at this dance." I could see the anger rise in Todd and his face turn red under the dim lights. A few couples stopped dancing to watch the confrontation, our friends included. "Where does it say that we can't dance together?" Todd asked, trying to hold his composure. "It's a rule that I just told you about. Now, there will be no dancing with a partner of the same sex." "I can't believe this. You're a homophobe," Todd yelled at her. "I beg your pardon, Mister, I am no such thing. I am responsible for the students here, and I don't want to have angry parents calling me because you want to dance." "Look around. No one gives a shit but you." "Mr. Blyth, you need to watch your tone with me, and your language, or I'll have to ask you to leave." "Mrs. Rudd, this is totally unfair," Paige said, jumping in. "I mean it's not like their doing it to piss you off. They really do love each other." "I don't want to hear that. It's not right, and I am the one that can stop it." "Maybe here, yes, but not in the real world," Todd said, stepping closer to her. I grabbed his arm to hold him back. "Like I said before, there will be none of that. Now, either you go back to your table or you leave. Those are your options." "C'mon, Todd. Let's just go back to the table. We'll dance later." Todd didn't move and said nothing, but continued to stare at Mrs. Rudd. When she turned away, I could tell Todd wanted to go after her, but I had a firm grip on his arm. We watched her go to the DJ and say something to him. A moment later, he picked up the microphone and said, "It looks like we're gonna hold off on that second song for a few minutes and get right to the announcements of the royal court." I could hear all the girls giggle with excitement. Everyone faced the stage, and Jenny Smith, president of the prom committee, had an envelope. "Good evening everyone. I hope you are all having a great time." The crowd erupted in applause. "Great. The prom committee and I put a lot of hard work into making this a night to remember for you guys, so we're happy you're enjoying it." Another round of applause. "So without further ado, it's time to announce the court." After reading off the names of each of the five girls, they all screamed with delight, and when they, escorted by her dates, made it on stage, they seemed to have tears in their eyes. I didn't understand it, but it looked like they were happy. When the guy's names were announced, they gave a high five to their buddies and walked with their dates on stage. "Now that we have the court, it's time to find out who our king and queen will be." She fiddled with a new envelope and reached for a card inside. "When your name is announced, you and your date will come up on stage and stand next to me for the crowning." There was a silence for a moment then she said, "And the Prom King is . . . Todd Blyth." The ballroom went nuts with applause and Todd looked surprised. "Holy, shit. Listen to `em," he said to me. "I know. They love you," I said. "C'mon. Let's go." Todd grabbed my hand, and we headed to the stairs. When we got there, Mrs. Rudd was waiting. "Mr. Moore, you'll have to wait down here." "No he won't, he's coming with me up there." "Then I'm sorry, you won't be going either. Make your choice now." The applause slowly died, and I assumed they were wondering where Todd was. "I am not going up there without him," Todd said firmly. "Then I'm sorry. You've just forfeited the title." Todd's anger came back full fledged, and I knew he was about to say something he'd regret later. I stepped in between him and Mrs. Rudd and said, "C'mon. Let's just go. We won't have any fun here." "This is stupid. Just cause she hates us, she's gonna ruin our whole night." "It's not worth it. Let's just go," I pleaded. Todd looked back at Mrs. Rudd, and I looked over his shoulder at Kelly. She was giving me a sign. She brought her hand up to her mouth and kissed it, then pointed to me and then Todd. "Todd, Kelly's telling me to kiss you." "What?" he asked, looking at me. "She's telling me to kiss you." Todd turned around and saw Kelly mimic the same action to him. A second later, Todd turned and looked at Mrs. Rudd then at me. His arms were around me in a flash, and his lips locked onto mine. I heard Mrs. Rudd gasp at the spectacle before her. "Stop that. Stop that, this instant." Todd obviously went deaf at that moment because he did no such thing. A few seconds later, I heard a couple people start to clap. I opened my eyes and saw Kelly and Paige, both, clapping. Soon after, a few more, then a few more, until the whole room were rooting us on with applause. Finally pulling away, he looked at Mrs. Rudd and said, "Who needs that title, anyway? Come on, babe, let's go." He turned and wrapped his arm across my back, and I did the same to him as we headed out the door. A minute later, Kelly ran after us. "Oh my God guys, that was awesome. Mrs. Rudd still hasn't moved. She's in shock," she said, laughing. Todd turned to her and said, "Thanks for the idea. I think that got her more than anything I could say." "I know. That's why I suggested it. That was great!" she said again. "Thanks, Kelly. I hope you and Howie have fun." "I wish you guys didn't have to leave," she said, taking my hand. "Me either. I'm finally comfortable with everything, and she goes and pulls this." "Where're you guys going?" "Don't know, as long as it's away from here," Todd said. "Tell everyone we said bye, will ya?" "Sure thing. Be careful," she said and waved us goodbye. Todd and I turned and walked back down the hotel hallway we had used to come to our prom. "I had a great time," I told him. "How? With everything she did?" "That's why it was so great. I have never seen her drop her jaw before; it was pretty awesome. And we got to hang out with your friends. I really did have a good time." "I'm just glad I was with you. That made the night very special for me." "Sometimes I think you're too sweet." "Yeah, well, I may rot your teeth, but I'll always be here." I put my head on his shoulder as we headed to the car. After a few minutes talking, we decided we were hungry and wanted dessert. Cowtippers was where we agreed on, so that's where we headed. We arrived and got a funny look from the host. We explained that we just came from the prom, and the reason, and he was nice enough to offer us dessert on the house. It was a nice warm night, and we decided to sit outside on the patio. It wasn't as busy as I would have expected for a Friday, but I guess the dinner part of the dates was over, and now it was clubbing time. We were seated and received our drinks as we looked over the menu. A few minutes later I got a call. "Hello?" "Hey, it's me, Kelly. Where are you guys?" "We decided to go to Cowtippers for dessert. What are you doing calling me? Shouldn't you be dancing?" "That's actually why I'm calling. After you guys left, they announced the queen. It was Paige, but she wouldn't accept the title. She told Mrs. Rudd that if there was no king then there wouldn't be a queen, and she walked out with Jason behind her." "You're fucking joking," I said, smiling big. "What?" Todd asked. I held up a finger for him to hold on and went back to the conversation. "That's not all. Over half the kids there followed them out, and we're outside wondering where to go." "Are you serious?" I asked in a more serious tone. "Very. There are like seventy to eighty students here in the lobby. How is Cowtippers? Are they busy?" I scanned over the empty tables and said, "No. They seem dead." "Cool, I'm gonna tell everyone you and Todd are there. I'll be there for sure, but there might be a lot more coming with." "Oh shit. Okay. See you soon." I ended the call and looked at Todd. "What happened?" he asked. "Paige won queen but declined saying if there wasn't a king then she wouldn't be the queen, and then walked out." "Are you kidding me?" he asked, smiling just as big. "No. She also told me that over half the prom walked out with her when she left. I think they're on their way here." "Who?" he asked. "Everyone who left," I said, seriously. "No fuckin' way." "It sounded that way when Kelly said it." "Oh shit. What do we do?" "We might want to warn the host." "Yeah, we better," Todd said and stood. I followed him up to the host stand, and he asked if he could help us again. "Actually, I think it's us who's gonna help you. See, my boyfriend just got a call from one of our friends saying that they might show up here in a few minutes." "That's fine. There are plenty of table open." "Enough for about seventy people?" I asked. "Please tell me you're joking," the host replied, losing his smile fast. "Well, according to her they were looking for a place to go. I don't know if all of them will show up, but it sounded like it." "Oh shit," he said. Looking at us, he said, "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to cuss." "Hey, if it was me, I would've said something worse," Todd said, smiling. "Okay then. Let me tell the kitchen." "Before you go, what time do you close?" Looking at his watch, he said, "The kitchen closes in about an hour, but the bar is open for two more." "Well, you can tell our friends the kitchen is closed and has only appetizers and desserts available, if that's alright. It might help save some time," I suggested. "That's not a bad idea. I'll have to speak to the manager." Before leaving, he asked if he decided on a dessert. Once we told him, he headed in the restaurant. Todd and I went back to our table and talked until our dessert came. It was a big piece of key lime pie, which we learned was one our favorites. He picked up his fork, dug in and fed me the first bite. "Oh wow. This is good," I said, chewing and enjoying the wonderful, sweet, tart flavor of the lime. Todd took a bite and had the same reaction. I picked up my fork and had a second bite as Todd went for another taste. By the time the pie was gone, we had started another conversation when Kelly and Howie came driving up. Kelly stepped out of the car, and I walked towards her. "Are you guys the only ones coming?" "No, the rest will be here in a few minutes." "How many are coming?" Todd asked as he walked up behind me. "I don't know. I think all of them." I looked at Todd and sighed. "I can't believe they walked out of the prom." "Me either. I told Howie that I wanted to leave, and they announced Paige's name for prom queen. She walked over to Mrs. Rudd and told her she wouldn't accept the title because she wouldn't let you two go on stage together, turned her back on her, and walked out with me and Howie. After that everyone started coming out the doors." "Did they all leave because of us?" Todd asked. "I think so. There were a lot of people there supporting you guys." "I never would have guessed this would happen," I said. Just about that time, cars started coming into the parking lot. I turned to see the host and a manager, I would guess, walking our way. Todd walked over and talked to them for a few minutes and then returned. "Okay, the grill is closed, but desserts and appetizers are still available. They close in two hours, so. . ." "That should be enough time for us to enjoy ourselves," Kelly chimed in, smiling. She lifted her dress and headed to a table near ours. As Howie passed, he patted me on the back and smiled. As the other students came in, they said hello to us, calling us by name. I didn't know who they were, but I smiled and shook hands with everyone that passed. Paige and Jason were about three quarters down the line of students, and when they came up, Todd smiled at her. "So you aren't always a bitch, I see." "Yeah, well, don't get used to it," she said, smiling and hugging him. "I just couldn't believe she did that to you guys." "Yeah, well, that's the way things are sometimes." "Either way, I wasn't going to accept queen without a king, so I left." "I appreciate that you did, but I don't want you regretting it later." "I won't regret anything. Friends stand up for each other. Just knowing I won the title and that you were my king is enough." When I looked up, I saw Jason watching us. "Hiya, Jase," Todd said. "Hey buddy. I can't believe that bitch." "Yeah, well, shit happens, right?" "Thank God we only have two more days," Jason said. "Yeah, you're tellin' me. I just hope I don't see her between now and Tuesday. She definitely won't like me then." "If you do, I just hope I'm around to hear," he laughed. "How are you doing, Blake," he asked. "I'm a lot better now. With all these people here, it makes me feel good. I guess I can stop worrying so much." "I think there are a lot more people who are open minded than you think." "It sure seems like it," I said and looked at the crowd. "Hey," a guy called out from the crowd. "Why don't y'all come over here and join the party. I mean, we're all here because of you guys." Todd put his hand on my shoulder and we headed back to our table with Paige and Jason close behind. After everyone put in their drink and dessert or appetizer orders, the students we didn't know introduced themselves. There were seniors, juniors, and some sophomores. After the introductions, people started to relive the prom with laughter; `Did you see her face when they kissed?' type questions and banter. They asked us a few questions about our coming out, our meeting and about the graffiti on the lockers. We told everything like we told Kelly, hiding the real truth about our meeting and explained that we still didn't know who the word artist was. Things carried on until after the restaurant closed. The manager told us we could stay, but we had to try to keep things quiet seeing as we were in a residential neighborhood. We thanked them and went back to the many conversations flying every which way. For another hour or so, we talked, laughed, and had a good time with our new friends. There was no way in hell I was going to remember their names, but I knew I would remember their faces. The guts it took for them to walk out of the prom with Mrs. Rudd there, was something I wasn't going to forget. It really made me feel good to know there were so many kids who, at first stared, but then thought nothing of it. It made me think with these people sitting around me and Todd, some of who didn't know us before tonight, there had to be more like them in school. Maybe I was being paranoid for nothing. I just hoped after tonight this is what the next year, my final year, was going to be like. A few people had already left, but we were having too much fun to leave. When he caught my yawns, Todd decided to call it a night. We both kissed Kelly and Paige goodnight and told everyone we would see them on Monday. On the way to the car, I walked behind Todd and wrapped my arms around him and put my chin on his shoulder. "I can't believe how this night turned out." "Pretty amazing, huh?" "Yeah. Way better than I imagined." We went to the car, and Todd unlocked my door and held it open. "I'm glad you had a great night, baby." "Me, too. And to think, you're the king." Todd closed my door and walked around the car. I reached over and unlocked his door. When he got in, I finished my thought. "You know, I've always wanted to have sex with a royal subject." Putting the key in the ignition, he said, "When we get home, I'm sure we can fulfill that fantasy." "I was hoping you were going to say that," I said and smiled. Looking out the window, I waved goodbye to everyone else, once again feeling amazed. To be continued . . . . Emails welcomed at dsc110875@hotmail.com