“Mike! Are you going to church?” a voice from his slumber said. Mike rolled over onto his back and opened his eyes. He was groggy but awake enough to know that he had managed to get himself into his pajamas and into bed. He had not brushed his teeth. His mouth had the taste of old smoke and stale beer.

  There was a knock on the door before it cracked open. It was his mom.

  “Mike, are you awake?”

  “Yeah, mom, I’m up,” he said and sat up in his bed.

  “Are you going to church with us?” His mom pushed the door open.

  “Would it be alright if I stayed home?” Mike did not get very drunk or high, but he felt sore and exhausted from the party last night. He also felt like he didn’t get nearly enough sleep. Rocco dropped him off at quarter till one, but he did not drifted off to sleep until around 3 thinking about the events of the night.

  “Alright then,” his mom said. She walked back out into the hallway and closed the door. A few seconds later, he heard her knocking on Joe’s door trying to get him to wake up. When did he get home? Did he get home? Mike was about to find out. He heard his mom knocking again and open the door. He could hear her enter, but he couldn’t make out what she was saying. He heard her voice mumble followed by a male voice mumbling. That meant Joe at least made it home.

  Mike rubbed his eyes and looked around his room. It was annoyingly bright in his room even with the curtains drawn. He had a slight headache. Is this what a hangover was? He spotted something unusual under the comforter of his bed. He lifted the sheets to find a ball cap. It was not his cap, however. It was a Yankees hat which was odd since he wasn’t into professional baseball or the New York Yankees.

  It then donned on him. It was Rocco’s cap. Oh, that’s right. Rocco swapped their caps when he got out of his car. This was after the porch light came on interrupting them kissing—oh shit. Everything was coming back to him. He and Rocco made out quite a bit last night. They were acting like they were boyfriends holding hands with each other last night—making eyes at each other. The haze of the morning lifted, and he remembered everything.

  All that time flirting with Rocco and wondering if Rocco felt the same as he did was over. He knew. They acted on it. Done. He began to get a strange feeling in his gut like he had fooled the world and done something he was not supposed to do. It wasn’t that he regretted kissing Rocco. He felt like he had discovered this whole new side of life. He wasn’t feeling guilty that he kissed a guy. He felt guilty that he had opened this new whole new experience that no one had told him about. He had kissed another boy, and he couldn’t wait to do it again. He felt like he belonged to this secret society. He felt guilty that he was hiding this whole new existence from the people he loved.

  He was glad he made out with Rocco. A smile spread over his face thinking about it. He took Rocco’s hat and put it on his head. Whatever sweat Rocco had left in the fabric of the hat was dry, but Mike could still detect the smell of hair and sweat. This was Rocco’s smell, and it made Mike delirious.

  He lay there a moment with the hat on. Something occurred to him, and he shot up in fear. Rocco was far more intoxicated and stoned that he was. Would Rocco remember their night? If he did, would he regret the entire experience? Mike was certain that Rocco enjoyed him kissing him. At least, it seemed like he was reciprocating. But, in the sober hours of the morning, would Rocco start to rethink the step they both took together? Would Rocco want to go back to being friends, if that was even a possibility?

  Mike took the cap off and examined it. This was a well-worn hat. The bill was starting to fray, and the logo was dingy. The navy was turning a medium blue. It was clear that Rocco had put this hat through some action. He wondered how old the hat was and how often Rocco wore it.

  Mike put his face in his hands to try to wake up a little more. He remembered that Rocco gave him his phone number. But where did he put it? He remembered putting it in a pocket. He looked around his room and saw the clothes he was wearing last night. The back pocket of his jeans. That’s where he put it. He got out of bed and grabbed his jeans. There were grass stains and mud on the butt and the knees—likely from going through the back yard and sitting on the rock in the woods. He fumbled through the pocket. His hands caught onto the piece of paper Rocco had given him in the car. He pulled the paper out and unfolded it. It was a part of an envelope that Rocco had torn. On it was scribbled:

  Rocco

  534-3492

  Rocco’s handwriting was neat and bold. Mike smiled at the handwriting and breathed a sigh of relief. He could call Rocco around lunchtime to gauge how he was feeling about last night. That’s what he will do. For now, Mike had to take care of this headache.

  He shuffled into the bathroom. He and Joe shared a bathroom. The bathroom was attached to Joe’s room so Mike would often have to lock the door so Joe wouldn’t barge in. Mike noticed the door from the bathroom to Joe’s room was wide open. Joe was still in bed. His room as dark. Mike didn’t want to disturb his brother, so he quietly closed the bathroom door leading to Joe’s room. Mike searched through the medicine cabinet for something for his headache—a Tylenol or an aspirin or something. He found not only a bottle of aspirin but also a couple of packets of Alka-Seltzer tablets. He decided on the Alka-Seltzer. His stomach was not feeling great either so that would be better. There was a glass tumbler he used to rinse his mouth out. He ran the cup under the facet to clean out. He filled up the tumbler with water and plopped the tablets into the water. He watched as the tablets dissolved leaving fizzy water and a layer of chalky residue floating on top. Mike swallowed the liquid which caused him to belch loudly. He rinsed out the cup and put it back on the counter. That would make him feel better in a few minutes.

  From the side door, he heard his brother.

  “Mike? Are you in there?” Joe said his voice hoarse and deep.

  “Yeah, I’ll be just a minute,” Mike shouted.

  “Ahh, keep it down,” Joe said. “Can I come in?”

  “Yeah, come on in,” Mike said.

  The door cracked open to reveal Joe in a state of dishevelment Mike had never seen. Of course, Mike was used to seeing Joe when he first woke up on many mornings before school, but, this morning, Joe was looking rough. It was obvious he had quite the night.

  “Shit, what time is it?” Joe muttered half awake.

  “I don’t really know. Mom woke me up asking about church so it must be around 9,” Mike said and took his toothbrush. His mouth would at least be halfway normal after he brushed the night out. “What time did you get home?” Mike said as he ran his toothbrush under the water and put a glob of toothpaste on his toothbrush.

  “Maybe 3 or 4? I’m not exactly sure,” Joe stammered.

  “MMM,” Mike mumbled while brushing his teeth. Joe went over to the toilet and started peeing. Mike was never thrilled that Joe would do this, but he was so used to it at this point, he hardly registered it any longer. He had done the same to Joe but only when he really needed to go. Mike continued to brush his teeth vigorously.

  “You?” Joe asked as he finished.

  Mike spit the toothpaste out, “I think it was almost 1 when Rocco dropped me off.”

  Joe flushed the toilet and turned around, “Oh yeah…” he said remembering pieces of last night, “how did that go?”. Mike rinsed his brush and turned off the water. He turned to face Mike and smiled giving him a thumbs up.

  “Very well,” Mike replied.

  “Come on! Details!” Joe said trying to get excited but catching himself remembering the hangover he had.

  Mike looked around slyly. “We hung out all night.”

  “That’s it?” Joe asked. Mike didn’t really want to tell Joe about how they practically spent the night making out. He wasn’t sure Joe wanted to hear about it especially after Joe divulged that it would take some work for him to be alright with his brother liking a guy. Mike did want to tell someone, however.

  “I haven’t talked to Rocco yet, so I don’t know if I want to get into it,” Mike said.

  “What did you all do?” Joe was anxiously wanting to hear about Mike’s night.

  “The question is what happened with you and Tiffany?” Mike said in a teasing manner.

  Joe put up his finger. “No, no. I’ll tell you if you tell me.”

  “Fine,” Mike sighed. “Are you sure you want to hear about it?”

  Joe put the seat down on the toilet and sat down. “If I’m going to be okay with your fluid sexuality, I’m going to have to hear about your conquests. So, spill it.”

  “Well, after his show, we went back to the woods and made out for a while,” Mike said in a sigh.

  Joe took a moment to process this information. “Okay. Okay.” He took another moment, “How do you feel about that?”

  Mike looked around the room again trying to come up with an answer. The only thing he could think of was the truth. “It was awesome.”

  Joe looked his brother up and down once, “So, this is you…now. You like Rocco?”

  Mike smiled, “I do.”

  “Yeah, I knew that already—when I saw the drawing you did of him,” Joe said. “Does this mean you guys are a thing now?”

  Mike’s smile vanished. “I don’t know. He gave me his number, so I want to call and talk to him later. He was pretty high. I don’t know if he will remember.”

  Joe contorted his mouth into a grimace. “Hmmm.”

  Mike wanted to change the subject. “Now, you! I told you about my night.”

  Joe laughed. “Yeah, that’s fair.” Joe rubbed his hands on his thighs. “We made out and then went back to her room and did some more.”

  “Did you guys do it?” Mike’s eyes widened. Joe laughed.

  “Do it? What? Are you in 5th grade?” Joe chuckled.

  “Did you have intercourse?” Mike rolled his eyes.

  “Nah. But we went pretty far,” Joe replied. Mike let out a nervous laugh. He really didn’t want to know any more details about Joe’s sex life. It felt a little gross hearing about his brother’s conquests.

  “That’s all I want to know—no further details, please,” Mike said and looked away. He was a little embarrassed to know this much. “Are you two a thing?”

  Joe shrugged. “Maybe. We shall see. We left it kinda open.”

  Mike suddenly changed the subject. “How did you get home?” Joe was tipsy when Mike found him at the party to tell him he was leaving.

  “Well, I quit drinking after you left since I knew I was going to have to drive home. Then we got to playing around which was some more time to sober up a bit. I have to confess. I am still hazy on the details of getting home. Probably not my brightest idea,” Joe said looking down.

  “Yeah, no shit. I’m just glad you made it home alright,” Mike said and started toward the hallway door. “I’m going to get some cereal.” He stopped himself before he turned the knob. Without looking at Joe, he asked, “If things go ok with Rocco, are you sure you are going to be ok with it?”

  Joe stood up and placed both of his hands on Mike’s shoulder. “I told you I would work on it and that’s what I will do. I’ll be ok.”

  Mike turned his head and gave him a nod.

  The phone rang exactly at noon. Rocco had been up for only a couple of hours. He was working on his third cup of coffee nursing the hangover from last night. He was lying in bed admiring the drawing on his wall that Mike had done of him. He hadn’t had a chance to get a frame yet—that was going to be on his list today. He was going to get his guitar from Tiffany’s and a picture frame. He was also feeling a little low after all the excitement last night. The show was a success. They were getting shows lined up. His friends knew he was gay. And he and Mike made out—a lot. This was everything that Rocco wanted but part of him missed all the buildup to it. Now that he had achieved everything he wanted—at least everything he wanted as a 17-year-old—what was to be next?

  Rocco picked up the receiver, “Hello?”

  “May I speak with Rocco?” Rocco instantly recognized the voice on the other end of the line.

  “Mike?” Rocco replied.

  “Yeah, hey Rocco. How are you?” Mike asked in a chipper tone.

  “I’m good. I’m a little hung over but nothing I can’t handle. How are you?” Rocco asked.

  “The same here,” Mike said.

  There was a lull in the conversation. Neither of them said anything for what seemed like an eternity.

  “Rocco, can we talk about last night?” Mike finally broke the silence.

  “That’s just what I was thinking,” Rocco responded.

  “I know we should have this conversation in person, but I guess I’m braver over the phone,” Mike confessed.

  “I see,” Rocco said. Rocco started to feel his stomach drop. Here it was…the regret. This was going to be Mike saying that he didn’t mean for last night to happen. He was about to hear how Mike just wanted to be good friends. They would be friendly for a few days and then he would drop Rocco. Mike was going to tell him that he was confused and drunk and didn’t know what he was doing. Et cetera. Rocco put his coffee down in preparation and lit a cigarette.

  “I wanted to tell you that I enjoyed last night so much,” Mike said. Rocco took a drag of his cigarette in disbelief. The conversation was not starting how he expected. Still, he was waiting for a “but”.

  Mike continued, “I remember everything we did and wanted it all to happen. I ---” Mike paused for a moment, “I want to do more of that with you.”

  Rocco couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He exhaled hard and put his cigarette out. He was afraid he would drop it and burn the carpet.

  “Mike,” Rocco started, “I feel the same.”

  Rocco could sense relief of Mike’s end when he heard him said “Really?”

  “Yes, I’ve been wanting to kiss you since I met you,” Rocco said.

  “I have too,” Mike responded. “Rocco, I was so afraid that you wouldn’t remember last night because you were drunk and high.”

  “I remember everything, and I wanted to do everything we did,” Rocco responded immediately.

  “That’s awesome,” Mike replied with a relieved laugh.

  “Yeah,” Rocco said.

  “When can I see you again?” Mike asked.

  “Well, I have to go get my equipment today at Tiffany’s. Want to come along?” Rocco said.

  “Yeah, I’d like that,” Mike said.

  “I was planning on around 6. Want me to pick you up around 5?” Rocco asked.

  “Sure!” Mike exclaimed.

  “Great. I should go get in the shower. I stink,” Rocco chuckled “Hey, Mike…” Rocco said and stopped.

  “Yes?” Mike said.

  “Party on, Garth,” Rocco said.

  “Party on, Wayne.”

  Mike hung up the receiver and looked out the window. It was reciprocal. Mike made out with the first guy he ever made out with, and it was not awful or regretful. At that moment, Joe walked in.

  “Were you just talking with Rocco?” Joe asked.

  Mike was in a dreamworld a million miles away. He responded with a far off “Yes.”

  “Oh, from that, I take it that it went well,” Joe laughed.

  Mike turned around to Joe and replied, “It did.”

  “So, is Rocco your boyfriend now?” Joe asked.

  “I don’t know about that yet. But we are going to hang out today,” Mike replied.

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  “Cool beans,” Joe responded. Mike raised his eyebrow at his response.

  “He wants me to go with him to pick up his equipment at Tiffany’s house,” Mike said.

  Joe stood back. “Are you expecting me to give you a ride to Tiffany’s?”

  “No, no. He’s going to pick me up here,” Mike said.

  “Good,” Joe breathed a sigh of relief. “I’m not ready to see Tiffany again just yet. I need to give it a few days.”

  “Advise from the master?” Mike chuckled.

  “Exactly,” Joe said and poured some water from the tap. “Hey, I was looking for something in your room and saw a Yankees hat. Since when are you a Yankees fan?”

  Mike blushed. “I’m not. It’s Rocco’s hat.”

  “Jesus H. Christ, Mike. I need to get advice from you!” Joe laughed. Mike smirked and threw a dishrag at him.

  “Can I ask you something serious?” Mike broke the levity.

  “Of course,” Joe said and sat down at the kitchen table.

  “You said you messed around with a guy before,” Mike started. Joe nodded. “How did you feel after that?”

  Joe inhaled deeply. “I felt ashamed to be honest. I felt like…I don’t know,” he paused for moment. “It felt like, well, you know how it feels to invade someone’s privacy?” Joe was grasping for metaphors, but Mike nodded. “It felt kinda like I was invading another guy’s privacy. Like I knew something about him that I wasn’t supposed to know.”

  “I don’t understand,” Mike replied.

  “Well, seeing and touching another dude is intimate. It’s like you know how this dude measures up now. And he knows the same secrets about you.”

  “Damn, Joe. I didn’t know you went that far. I thought you just kissed another guy,” Mike was stunned at what he just heard. Joe nervously laughed and shrugged.

  “I wasn’t sure if you could handle it,” Joe responded. “I felt like I was doing something I wasn’t supposed to be doing.”

  “I see,” Mike looked down.

  “Is that how you feel?” Joe looked at Mike.

  Mike took a few seconds to think over how he felt. He didn’t fully understand what Joe was saying about invading privacy, but he understood his question about doing something he wasn’t supposed to do.

  “Joe, I don’t feel like that. I feel like I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing,” Mike said with a smile.

  Joe was taken aback. He hadn’t expected that answer. He expected Mike to be riddled with guilt. It never occurred to him that Mike was doing what felt right for him. When Mike put it in those terms, he started to comprehend how his brother felt.

  “Ha, I think I get it,” Joe replied.

  “You do?” Mike asked.

  “Yeah, I am so wrapped up assuming everyone feels like I do. I’m supposed to feel guilty because I went against my own nature. But this is who you are. You like Rocco, don’t go against that,” Joe said. Mike did not expect his brother to make so much sense.

  “Thanks, Joe.”

  “Are you going to tell Mom and Dad?” Joe asked.

  Mike breathed in deeply. “No, not yet. I don’t know where this will go with Rocco. Like I said, I’m not sure if I even fit in a category to tell them.”

  “I get it,” Joe said. “But if you need me to be there, I will.”

  “Right now, I want to just keep this between me, you, and Rocco,” Mike said staring at Joe.

  “I will totally respect that,” Joe said.

  There was a knock on the door. Emily Barber opened the door to see Rocco standing at the front door.

  “You must be Rocco?” she asked.

  “Yes ma’am. I’m here to pick up Mike,” Rocco replied feeling nervous to speak with one of Mike’s parents. He couldn’t look her in the eye out of fear that she knew what he and Mike did last night.

  “Come in. I’m Emily Barber,” she said and made a motion. Rocco was amazed at the perfect décor of the Barber mini mansion. It was like he had walked into a Southern Living magazine. Touches of country farmhouse were pervasive throughout. Here a basket, there a duck sculpture, everywhere a dried bouquet. The air smelled of potpourri.

  “Thank you, ma’am,” Rocco shyly said and entered.

  “You are Mike’s classmate, right?” Mrs. Barber asked.

  “We have Civics and Psychology together,” Rocco quietly replied.

  “You’re awful grown up for a sophomore,” she stated.

  “I’m a senior,” Rocco replied.

  “You must know Joe then,” Mrs. Barber stated with a certain pride at her quarterback son.

  “Yes, ma’am. I do,” Rocco properly said. At that moment, Joe came down the stairs.

  “Joe, honey, your classmate, Rocco, is here for Mike,” Mrs. Barber said. “That’s an unusual name. Is that an Italian name?”

  “No, ma’am. It’s a nickname. My proper name is Marcus Rocio,” Rocco responded.

  “Oh, I see,” Mrs. Barber said. “Well, that’s also an unusual name. Where’s your family from?”

  “Mom, honestly! That’s a rude question to ask,” Joe interrupted. “Rocco, come upstairs while Mike gets ready. I have a math question.” Joe waived Rocco impatiently upstairs. Joe gave his mom an annoyed glance.

  “I was just making conversation,” Mrs. Barber said.

  “It’s fine,” Rocco said. He started to answer her question when Joe shushed him. Rocco started to follow Joe upstairs. “It was nice to meet you”. Mrs. Barber gave Rocco a smile and a nod and walked away.

  “I’m so sorry about that,” Joe apologized. “Anyone with the slightest hint of ethnicity makes her all curious.” Joe said causing Rocco to nervously laugh.

  “I didn’t mind,” Rocco responded.

  “Yeah, but I didn’t want her to categorize you as an Other,” Joe said. “Come to my room, I have questions!” Rocco followed Joe to his room and closed the door. Rocco started to get nervous. Joe’s room was the typical messy room of a teenaged boy. Rocco had a crush on Joe some time ago, but never in his wildest dreams did he think he would be in his room. Joe had posters of women in bikinis on his wall as well as football team posters.

  “So, what are you working on that you need some answers to,” Rocco started.

  “That was just an excuse to get you out of the firing range. I hear you had an eventful night with my brother,” Joe raised his eyebrows.

  Rocco immediately went into panic. Even though Joe had apologized for his complacency to his teasing, Rocco was not prepared for this conversation with Joe. Rocco was still apprehensive about talking about his relationship so far with Mike. This was the jock who stood by and laughed as his friends teased him. Rocco started to fidget uncomfortably. Joe picked up on Rocco’s unease.

  “Relax, Rocco, relax. It’s totally fine. Mike’s been going on about how you two made out and how much you two enjoyed it. I’m very cool with it,” Joe reassured.

  Rocco eased up a little but not completely. He wasn’t sure if this was some sort of trap.

  “Yeah, we did that,” Rocco replied.

  “Mike really likes you. He explained to me how he feels and about his leanings—I’m sorry. Is that offensive to say? Leanings?” Joe asked.

  “Not at all. I know what you are saying,” Rocco replied.

  “I don’t want him to get hurt. So, I’m having the big brother conversation with you,” Joe’s demeanor turned comically rigid. “If you ever do anything to hurt my little brother, I will end you. Consider this your first and only warning.”

  Rocco laughed and gave him a “Yes, sir.”

  “Seriously though, I picked up that he liked you the other day. We’ve had lots of chats, and I think I understand who he is and what he likes. I think he seriously likes you, Rocco. I want you to know, from me directly, that I am totally ok with you going out with Mike and if anyone gives you two any grief, I want you to tell me,” Joe explained.

  “Okay, I appreciate that. I mean, we aren’t official by any means, and, honestly, I’ve only told the guys in the band that I’m gay. Well, and you, but I guess that’s a moot point now,” Rocco replied.

  “I understand and I will uphold your privacy,” Joe said. “In any case, you have my full blessing,” Joe said with gusto. Rocco chuckled. He wasn’t looking for Joe’s blessing, but it was nice to have it, nonetheless.

  Mike opened the bathroom door that was connected to Joe’s room. He stood at the threshold—an image that took Rocco’s breath away. He was just wearing a t-shirt and a pair of shorts, but it was the Yankees cap that caught Rocco’s attention. Mike was wearing his hat. When Mike caught sight of Rocco, his face lit up.

  “Party on, Wayne,” Mike said and smiled.

  “Party on, Garth,” Rocco returned.

  “You guys are nuts,” Joe said. “Now, get out of my room.”

  “Wanna see my art?” Mike eyed Rocco.

  “I’d love to see your art,” Rocco said.

  “You two, out now!” Joe exclaimed. “And it better only be art you’re showing each other.”

  They went to Mike’s room. Mike quickly closed the door and passionately kissed Rocco. Rocco eagerly returned the kiss. Mike tasted of toothpaste and mouthwash. Rocco tasted salty. They continued standing against Mike’s closed bedroom door kissing for a few minutes. Mike started edging the pair over to his bed. He pushed Rocco on to his bed. Rocco fell into the comforter followed by Mike. Rocco went to kiss Mike. The two then lay in the bed embracing looking up at the ceiling.

  “I was so afraid you wouldn’t remember last night,” Mike finally said with his head on Rocco’s chest.

  “I was afraid you were regretting last night and would never talk to me again,” Rocco replied.

  “Never,” Mike replied. Rocco smiled and started to run his fingers through Mike’s hair. Rocco noticed that his natural auburn color was taking over. His sun-bleached highlights were only on the tips of his reddish-brown hair now. His hair was soft and silky between his fingers. “What are we doing today?”

  “Well, I need to get my guitar from Tiffany’s then I have something to get at the store. I thought maybe we could see what’s going on at the skate park,” Rocco answered.

  “I’m down for that,” Mike sighed.

  “But I thought first, I’d give you more kisses,” Rocco smiled.

  Mike looked up from Rocco’s chest. “Gladly.”

  They started kissing, Mike on top of Rocco. After a few minutes, Mike broke off.

  “We should go,” Mike said.

  “Aren’t you going to show me your art?” Rocco asked innocently.

  “That was just an excuse to get you alone so we can make out,” Mike laughed.

  “The Barber family is all down with making excuses. Seriously! I want to see it,” Rocco replied.

  Mike sat up. “Could we do that another time? Right now, I just want to get out of this house and spend the day with you.”

  “Okay, but promise me you’ll show me sometime soon,” Rocco said.

  “I promise,” Mike said and stood up. Rocco got out of the bed. He did not want to leave Mike’s room. It was an inviting room that smelled of cedar and spice. Mike grabbed his wallet and door keys. “You know, next Wednesday is my birthday. I’ll be able to drive.”

  “Really?” Rocco couldn’t believe that they hadn’t shared when their birthdays were.

  “Yeah, I’m going to take the driving test next Thursday so, fingers crossed, I’ll be hitting the road soon,” Mike said and smiled. “When is your birthday?”

  “It’s not until the end of April, April 29,” Rocco replied.

  “So, I’ll have almost a year where you are just a year older than me,” Mike said.

  “Yeah, I guess you are right,” Rocco made a note to himself that he had to get Mike a present. He had to spend the week finding out what he liked and wanted.

  “You ready?” Mike asked. Rocco nodded and the two went downstairs.

  Mrs. Barber was in the kitchen fixing the family dinner.

  “Mom, we’re heading out. I won’t be here for dinner if that’s okay,” Mike said and looked at Rocco.

  “What are you boys going to do?” Mrs. Barber asked.

  “Just ride around. Rocco’s got to pick up his guitar from the party,” Mike replied.

  “Oh?” she asked.

  “Yeah, my band played at the party,” Rocco added.

  Mrs. Barber’s eyebrows raised, “You don’t say?”

  “They were really good,” Mike said. “Come on!”

  “Be home by 8, it’s a school night,” Mrs. Barber yelled as the two exited the house.

  The two got in the car. Rocco started the engine and pulled out of the driveway. Mike placed his hand on Rocco’s thigh as he drove to Tiffany’s. He felt like he was in heaven the entire way to Tiffany’s house. On occasion, he caught Mike looking at him.

  It took a little over 30 minutes to get to Tiffany’s place. When they pulled up, Tiffany, her mom, and a crew of people Rocco had not seen were outside picking up trash from last night. Tiffany and her mother waved as Rocco and Mike got out of the car.

  “Hey, cuz. Did y’all have a good time last night?” she asked.

  “Most definitely,” Mike replied.

  “Thanks for letting us play,” Rocco said.

  “Are you kidding? Everyone loved y’all. You’re going to play my next party” Tiffany said and then she whispered, “If Mama will let me have another party.”

  “She’s not too happy, is she?” Rocco asked.

  “I don’t think she was expecting so many people to show up,” Tiffany replied. “Listen, she’s giving me the stink eye, so I better get back. Your guitar is in the living room. The other guys have already come and got their stuff. Yours is the only one left in there. The doors are open so go on in.”

  Rocco did as she said and got his guitar. He and Mike waved back at Tiffany as they got in his car.

  “Do you think we should stay and help?” Mike asked.

  “If you want, but is that how you want to spend our day together?” Rocco asked looking at Mike.

  “No, not really,” Mike replied. Rocco smiled and started the car. In any case, it looked like they had plenty of people to help with the cleanup.

  Rocco pulled into the megastore on the outskirts of town. It was a huge enclosure that had just about everything a person could want at rock-bottom prices. Rocco was going to look for a frame for Mike’s drawing.

  “What do you need here?” Mike asked as they pulled into a spot.

  “Well, I want to get a frame for the drawing you did,” Rocco answered his question matter-of-factly. Mike looked over at Rocco. Mike had an open-mouthed smile. Rocco leaned over and kissed Mike’s open mouth once.

  “So, you like the drawing?” Mike asked.

  “I love it,” Rocco replied.

  They went into the store and picked out a large, understated frame that would not take away attention from the drawing. Once Rocco made his selection, he motioned Mike to follow him to the Toys section.

  “Why are we in the Toys?” Mike asked.

  “I just want to browse for a minute,” Rocco said and set the frame down. He spotted a bouncy ball with a handle on top. He dug it out and sat down on it with the handle between his legs. This brought back lots of childhood memories.

  “Rocco! What are you doing? You’ll get caught!” Mike whispered.

  “So?” Rocco replied and bounced towards Mike. Seeing how much Rocco was enjoying the trip down childhood lane, Mike retrieved a ball for himself and followed Rocco up and down the aisle. They were having a great time bouncing around the Toys section. Rocco bounced over to the toy guns and grabbed one. He pretended to make shotgun sounds as he pointed the gun at Mike. Mike pretended to be shot and fell backwards off the ball. It went bouncing down the aisle to the side. Mike couldn’t catch his breath not because of the fall but because he was laughing so hard. He got back on his feet and retrieved the ball. When he got back on it, he saw that Rocco had already gotten off the ball and was looking at the Legos. Mike put both of their balls back and walked over to the Legos.

  “You like these?” Mike asked.

  “I love Legos. My dad got my first set when I was 6. Back then, they weren’t in these themes. They were just assorted blocks. We would spend hours building all sort of things,” Rocco said as he looked through the selection. Mike caught on that Legos meant a lot to Rocco.

  “These are cool,” Mike said and reached for a lunar landing set.

  “Oh man, I love the space ones!” Rocco exclaimed. Mike knew what he was getting for Rocco as a present on the next special occasion. Certainly, before his birthday.

  “Hey, it’s already almost 6:30 and I have to be home at 8. And you still want to take me to the skate park,” Mike said.

  “You’re right. You sure you want to go? You didn’t seem to like that place,” Rocco stated.

  “I liked the park. It was the skateboard that I didn’t like,” Mike replied.

  “Oh, yeah. That’s right,” Rocco teased. “Not a natural born skater in my midst.”

  “Fuck you!” Mike laughed. “I did get to taste your neck when I fell.”

  Rocco stood erect and smiled at Mike. “I thought that’s what happened. What did I taste like?”

  “Sweat. Salty,” Mike chuckled.

  “Oh, yeah, I burned off some calories at practice that night,” Rocco blushed.

  “Yeah, but you are pretty tasty,” Mike half-joked.

  “Now, fuck you!” Rocco said and ran to the checkout with his frame. “You gotta catch me if you want a ride back.”

  “Wait!” Mike shouted. Adults were starting at the two teenagers as they ran through the huge store. Mike caught up to Rocco at one of the many checkout lines to pay for the frame. He was a little out of breath. Rocco paid for the frame, and the two went back to the car.

  They pulled up to the skate park to see that it was rather active on a Sunday evening. There were lots of younger kids and a few older teenagers. Mostly the older ones were sitting around smoking and chatting—not skating. Rocco and Mike started to walk to the gate when Mike stopped him.

  “Aren’t you going to get your board?” Mike asked.

  “Nah, I just want to hang out and be with you,” Rocco stated. Mike’s heart melted but he had no response other than to squeeze Rocco’s hand.

  “Hey, isn’t that Pete and Raz?” Mike said as he scanned the crowd. Rocco spotted them after Mike pointed them out.

  “So, it is,” Rocco confirmed.

  Rocco paid for both to enter. O’Malley was looking especially surly today. They made their way through the crowd of little kids to Pete and Raz.

  “There they are!” Pete shouted and waved them over. Mike and Rocco approached and sat down. “The rockstar guitarist himself and his groupie.”

  Rocco laughed. “Hey guys, what’s up?”

  “Not much, just getting over the remnants of my hangover,” Raz retorted.

  “Yeah, mine’s done. I didn’t have much alcohol last night,” Rocco recalled.

  “Just weed,” Mike chimed in. Pete and Raz started laughing.

  “And you, young sir? What about you?” Raz asked.

  “I was feeling pretty cruddy this morning,” Mike answered.

  “We didn’t see much of you two last night,” Pete observed. “Actually, you kinda vanished after the show.”

  Rocco and Mike looked at each other and smirked. “We were around.”

  “I bet you were,” Pete remarked. “I bet you were.”

  Raz laughed. “Are you two an item now?”

  Rocco and Mike gave him a shocked looked and then looked at each other. Mike looked up and to the left while Rocco looked up and to the right.

  “Never mind,” Raz chucked. “You don’t have to answer that.”

  “Okay, so, we’ve been booked for a couple of parties soon. We need to get together and discuss all of this,” Pete started. “We are playing Troy Brighton’s party in a couple of weeks which pays $100. David Wick and Patrick Stubblefield each wants us to play their parties.”

  David Wick. David Wick was one of Joe’s jock friends and the main instigator of all of Rocco’s teasing. It all started with him.

  “I’ll gladly play Troy’s party, but, if I’m going to play David’s, you should charge him $200,” Rocco demanded.

  Pete looked at Rocco curiously. “Why?”

  “Asshole surcharge,” Rocco replied.

  “I don’t think I’d be able to do that,” Pete said.

  “Then I’m not playing his party,” Rocco crossed his arms.

  “Why not?” Pete asked.

  “David Wick is a dick. He’s the guy who’s teased me all these years,” Rocco stated.

  “Oh, I see,” Pete said and paused. “Then fuck him. We won’t play his party. And I’ll tell him straight up we don’t play homophobe’s parties…I’m not going to make a lame excuse.” Raz nodded. These guys were willing to sacrifice $100 for him. Rocco loved these guys so much. He looked over at Mike who gave him a thumbs up.

  “Why don’t we talk about our playlist at lunch tomorrow. I want to add some different songs,” Raz said. “I’m going to get a coke.”

  “I’ll join you. You guys want something?” Pete asked.

  “Sure, we’ll have a coke,” Rocco said and gave Pete a few dollars.

  Once Raz and Pete were gone, Mike and Rocco sat back and watched the kids in the bowls.

  “Now I know why you are friends with those guys,” Mike said continuing to watch the kids.

  “Yeah, they have my back. I have theirs,” Rocco said.

  “I don’t have that with my friends,” Mike reflected.

  “It’s occurring to me, I don’t really know all that much about you,” Rocco said and turned to Mike. Mike returned the look.

  “What do you want to know?” Mike asked.

  Rocco thought for a moment. “Well, what do you want to do after high school?”

  Mike took a moment to reply. “Go to college, of course. Probably close by at one of the state schools.”

  “What do you want to study?” Rocco asked.

  “I don’t know. I guess I’ll end up studying accounting or something like that,” Mike replied.

  “Not art?” Rocco asked.

  “Probably not, my parents would hate that,” Mike responded.

  “So, what if they do? You’re good at it. Don’t let your talent go to waste,” Rocco said in a serious tone.

  “It’s just a hobby,” Mike dismissed him.

  “For real, you can totally do something legit with it,” Rocco continued. “Promise me something.”

  Mike looked over at Rocco. “Yes?”

  “Promise me you’ll at least take an art class or two in college,” Rocco pleaded.

  Mike smiled and wanted to kiss him, “I promise.” Rocco tilted his head to the side and batted his eyelash which made Mike burst out laughing.

  “You should think about entering some art shows too. I’m sure there’s some around here. You know, so you can build up your portfolio,” Rocco thought.

  “Yeah, I could do that,” Mike responded.

  “I can talk to the guys to see if maybe you could design a flyer for us,” Rocco suggested.

  “Oh yeah?” Mike was surprised at this suggestion.

  “Yeah, like design a logo for us or something,” Rocco said.

  “Yeah, maybe,” Mike said and looked off in front of him. “Rocco, are you really going to move to California after high school?”

  Rocco stopped. He had brought it up the other night so Mike must have been thinking about it. This decision was made long before he met Mike. Rocco inhaled and exhaled deeply. “That’s my plan.”

  “I see,” Mike looked down.

  Rocco knew this was bothering him. “That’s a ways off. Let’s just take things one day at a time.”

  “Yeah, I’ll try. I just don’t—” Mike stopped himself.

  “What is it?” Rocco asked.

  Mike sighed and replied after a moment. “I just don’t want to fall for you only to have you leave me here. I’ll still be here for two years.”

  Rocco felt like he was going to cry. Fall for him? Oh shit, this was getting serious. He cleared his throat, “Yeah, I know what you mean.”

  “I know you made up your mind before we met, and I don’t want to be the one that stops you from your plan. I’m just afraid of being left behind,” Mike was beginning to cry.

  Rocco saw his tears welling up and scooped him in his arms for a quick hug before realizing that they were in public. “Can we just enjoy the time we have together now?”

  Mike wiped away his tears and nodded. Pete and Raz were approaching with the soft drinks.

  “You’re right, Rocco. Let’s make the most of our time right now,” Mike smiled “I promise to do that.”

  “And to take an art class,” Rocco reminded Mike.

  Mike laughed. “And I promise to take an art class.”

  “Cokes all around,” Raz said.

  “Hey, I have a suggestion,” Rocco started. “Mike is good at art, and I asked if he would be willing to mockup some designs for our band—like the Fred logo. What do you guys think?” Mike looked at Rocco wide-eyed in shock.

  “No fucking way!” Pete exclaimed. “Fuck yeah, that would be awesome.”

  “Totally!” Raz agreed. Rocco looked over at Mike and shrugged.

  “Well, what do you say?” Rocco asked.

  “Of course. Yes. I’ll come up with a few things,” Mike agreed.

  “Do you think you can have something to look at in a few of days?” Pete asked. “Our next show is in a couple of weeks. It would be great to have the design out there!”

  “Sure,” Mike said. “If I recall, Fred is your dog?”

  “That’s right,” Pete said.

  “Can you get me a picture of Fred?” Mike asked.

  “I’ll look around tonight before bed,” Pete said. Mike gave him a thumbs up. The group sat and drank their cokes talking about potential designs and watching the youngsters do their tricks.

  “Oh, I got get you back pretty soon,” Rocco said after a while.

  “Oh, shit. Yeah,” Mike said. They got up and bid Pete and Raz goodbye.

  “We’ll talk about our band stuff tomorrow at lunch,” Pete reminded. Rocco gave an okay sign as they left.

  When Rocco pulled into the Barbers’ driveway, he turned the car off. Mike looked his way. Rocco leaned in to kiss Mike. Mike grabbed Rocco’s face and gladly returned the kiss. They made out in Rocco’s car for about five minutes before the front porch light came on.

  "I’ll see you tomorrow in class,” Rocco said and gave him his crooked half smile.

  “Bye Rocco,” Mike said and went inside.

  “Bye Mike,” Rocco whisper, snickered, and drove off. As the car pulled out, Mike shut the front door and stood at the door, silent. A few days ago, he made the decision that he was going to be Rocco’s boyfriend. He was well on the path to that goal. He turned around and went into the kitchen to get some leftovers.