Another Chance - Book One

By Zarek Dragon

 

It was four in the morning when Zac woke up. He went to his bathroom stripped off his shorts and drained his bladder. He started the shower and climbed in. When he was done, he wrapped a towel around himself and went back into the bedroom. Jim was still asleep. Zac slipped on a clean pair of boxers and woke Jim up with a kiss on the cheek.

"What time is it?" Jim asked.

"It's almost four thirty. I thought you might like a shower before getting dressed. Also, we didn't think about it last night, but you don't have anything to wear to the ranch today. You don't want to wear your nice clothes that you had on, so you can wear something of mine, but it might be a little loose on you."

Jim sat up in bed and rubbed his eyes. He flung back the covers and slid his legs over the side. Zac could see Jim had morning wood, but didn't say anything. He just smiled. Jim headed towards the bathroom. As he started removing his shorts, he realized his situation and wondered whether Zac had seen it. Jim didn't worry about that; if he had, there was nothing he could do anyway. When Jim came out of the shower, he looked around. Zac wasn't in the bedroom, but a set of clean clothes including boxers lay on the bed. Jim started getting dressed.

Downstairs, Zac was fixing breakfast. He had two pounds of bacon, scrambled eggs and hash browns cooking. A fresh pot of coffee had just finished brewing. Marilyn came downstairs. "What smells so good?"

"I'm fixing breakfast, Mom," Zac answered.

She walked in the kitchen and saw that the dishes were done. She kissed Zac on the cheek and he shooed her away. "Just grab a cup of coffee and go sit at the table. Jim should be down soon, and breakfast is almost ready."

"I think he needs to spend more nights here. This is the first time you've had breakfast almost done before I got up," Marilyn commented with a smile.

Jim came downstairs and was looking for Zac. He found Marilyn at the dining room table. A pitcher of orange juice and a few glasses were in the center. She motioned for him to have a seat. At first, he felt uneasy thinking she was going to question him about what they did after she went to bed. He poured himself a glass of juice as he sat down. "Thank you for the dishes. You boys didn't have to do that."

"I know we didn't, but Zac thought it would be nice," Jim responded. Zac came out of the kitchen and set the bacon and eggs on the table. He went back into the kitchen and came out with a plate of toast, the hash browns and some butter.

"Jim tells me it was your idea to do the dishes," Marilyn stated looking at Zac.

"Yeah, I felt like it was the least we could do," Zac answered. "Sort of my way of thanking you for asking me to do you that favor yesterday."

"Well, it was awfully nice of you boys. I really appreciate it."

Zac and Jim finished breakfast, Zac kissed his mom on the cheek and they headed out. When they got to the ranch, they had fifteen minutes before they were supposed to start working. Zac looked at Jim, "So what did you think about last night? Weren't uncomfortable, were you?"

"It felt natural, actually. I think I liked sharing your bed," Jim smiled.

"You're actually the first person to sleep in it with me. I thought it felt good. I really enjoyed the goodnight kiss. And Mom thinks you should sleep over again." Jim began to blush.

Zac leaned over and kissed Jim. Shortly after their lips touched, someone knocked on Zac's window. It was the owner, Zac rolled his window down. "Sorry, I know I shouldn't be kissing at the work place, Mr. Jackson. We haven't…" He was cut off.

"No, you're fine. Hell, I don't care if you kiss while I'm paying you as long as you get the work done. I just thought I'd let you know, I'm logging you in, so finish up and you can get started when you're ready. And stop with the mister stuff, Name is just Jackson. How many times do I have to tell you that?" Jim chuckled.

"Yes, sir, we'll get right to work." Zac said.

"No, I said finish what you're doing, then get to work. Josh has a list of things that I'd like you to show Montana here." He pointed to Jim.

Jim smiled. "Thanks, Jackson."

"See, his first day and he didn't say mister." Jackson said as he headed off.

"I think I'm going to like it here. Jackson seems cool." Jim stated.

Zac leaned over and kissed Jim again. This time they managed to get their tongues in each other's mouths. When they separated, they headed for the barn. Zac grabbed a couple pairs of gloves and handed one pair to Jim. Zac put his in his back pocket so Jim did the same. Zac looked at the list of duties they needed to do.

"You ever clean the stalls and feed the horses on your ranch?" Zac asked.

"Just Gold's. Dad insisted that I had to take full responsibility for him. The ranch hands took care of the rest."

"Then, we should be able to knock that out quick. Not sure what you normally fed your horse, but here each horse has a customized diet according to their individual needs. You may notice some of the diets are alike, but you need to look at the chart at each stall. We'll clean all of the stalls first, then go about feeding them."

Zac and Jim slipped some rubber boots over their shoes and put their gloves on and got busy. By the time they finished feeding the last horse, it was a little after seven. This ranch was fairly new compared to other ranches in the area, so they didn't have a large number of horses, but they had enough. The stable wasn't even half full. Josh poked his head in the barn. He said staring at Jim, "Delivery of fresh hay's here. I hope you're ready to work your muscles."

Zac climbed up a ladder. Jim followed him. Zac opened a large door that went outside. A conveyor took the hay from down below to this door. As the bales reached the top, the boys grabbed and carried them to where they were being stacked. A couple other hands were doing the stacking. By the time the truck was unloaded, Jim was worn out.

"How often does the truck come?" Jim asked.

"Every Sunday. We usually get enough to last eight days, but today was a lighter load so we could use some of the excess," Zac said. "We have a few minutes so you can catch your breath. Mr. Jackson wants you to saddle Gold and show us what you know about riding."

"What was that?" Zac heard a voice coming from behind him.

He spun around and saw Jackson. "Umm, I was just telling Jim that you wanted to see what he knew about riding, sir."

"Yeah, but I swore I heard the ‘m' word. Am I gonna have to start making you do push-ups or something to quit using it? I'm only twenty-two years old, and Jackson is my first name. You've been working here for a little over ten months, I would've figured you'd stop calling me mister by now."

"Sorry, it won't happen again. I was just taught to be respectful of my bosses."

"Well, being respectful includes calling or not calling what they ask," Jackson stated.

"You're right, I promise, if I call you mister again, I'll do however many push-ups you say," Zac replied.

"You're only twenty-two?" Jim asked.

"Do I look older?" Jackson asked with a frown.

"No, if I didn't know you owned this ranch, I would have guessed you to be eighteen or nineteen. I only thought you were older because you must have put some money down for this ranch. How big is it any way?"

Jackson smiled. "I was able buy a couple thousand acres for a good price. What I was short, the owner of the ranch I worked at lent me. He's the best boss I have ever worked for and I hope I treat my people as good as he does. If you're his friend, he'll be a true friend, but hurt any of his friends and I wouldn't want to be you. He takes care of his family, and if you are his friend, you are family. I talk to him and his partner almost every day."

"Well, all I can say is, I've been happy working for you. I can't see anyone being a better boss, Jackson. That's one of the reasons I brought Jim here yesterday."

"I barely know you, and I told Zac before we got out of the truck that I think I'm gonna enjoy working for you," Jim piped in.

Jackson smiled, "I'm glad to hear it. Other than this young man showing what he knows about riding, I think you boys are done for the day. Take him to get whatever gear he needs when you're done. Ranch will cover whatever he's going to use here and he can pay back as he can anything else that he wants. I'll call ahead to authorize it and you can just bring me the invoice next time you work."

"Thanks Jackson," Jim said taking the glove off his right hand and holding it out.

Jackson took Jim's hand and shook it. He told Jim to think nothing of it as it was a business expense. Jim and Zac led Gold to the double post. Jim started grooming Gold while Zac grabbed the tack that he would need. When he returned carrying the saddle and other items, Jim looked at him with a grin. "How did you know I didn't want an English saddle?"

Zac gave him a funny look. "Please, this is Wyoming. We only do western riding on this ranch."

"So, I haven't really seen what all goes on, how exactly does this ranch make money to pay us? Jackson seems awfully generous," Jim asked.

"Well, I started shortly after mist…" Zac caught himself, "Jackson started this ranch. Not sure if he has always been generous or if he learned that from who he worked for, but you heard how he talks about his former boss. This ranch is actually multi-faceted."

"OH?" Jim questioned.

"Yeah, see, there are a couple hundred acres over towards Yellowstone that have cattle on them. There's a bunk house and barn and everything... The hands that work there tend to their own horses. Jackson raises the cattle and sells what he can. The beef we had for the cookout probably came from here. You noticed the horses we took care of today?"

"Yeah, a third were stallions, the rest were mares. Not a gelding in the bunch," Jim replied.

"Exactly. Jackson breeds his horses and offers a stud service. He is also looking for good riders who can train others to ride. Ranch gets calls every day and we don't have enough qualified trainers."

"I'd be willing to help where I can," Jim offered.

"That would be one of the reasons Jackson wants to see what you know. So how long have you been riding?"

"Shoot, my daddy had me on a horse before I could walk. I'd rather not talk about it, though. Might sound cocky. Better to show you what I know and you can tell me areas I may need to work on."

"Not me, I've only been riding for a few years. Jackson and some of the hands know way better than I do," Zac admitted.

Jim finished putting the tack on Gold. He checked the cinch and everything else. When he was satisfied, he grabbed the reins and mounted his stallion. It had been six months since he had ridden a horse, Gold being his last, or Gold having a rider, so they started off at a walk. It didn't take long until both seemed comfortable being back together, so Jim made a kiss and Gold sped up to a trot. After a few minutes, Jim kissed again and Gold moved to a canter. He rode over to Zac. "He hasn't missed a beat. I believe I could ride him not even using the reins."

"You do seem to do very well with him," Zac offered.

"Montana?" Jackson started, "You don't mind me calling you that, do you?"

"I prefer Jim, but you can get away with calling me Montana," Jim said with a chuckle.

"Jim, for the next few weeks, I want you to spend at least an hour each day you work just riding. You look like you know what you're doing, but haven't done it in a while. Besides that, I think your horse will appreciate the time with you."

"I'll be here as often as I can, Jackson," Jim offered.

"Well, whenever you're here, even for leisure riding, you're actually doing something for the ranch. Federal Labor Laws states that I can't work you more than twenty hours a week during a school week, but I can work you forty on non-school weeks. If you put in more than that, I can get in trouble."

"I'll try to keep it under twenty hours. If it should go over, you don't have to show all my riding time," Jim offered.

"Well, on the weekends, you'll be putting in fourteen hours with you getting a half hour for lunch each day. Just try not to go over six through the week. How are you at teaching others?" Jackson asked. Jim just smiled.

Jim and Zac took Gold to the crossties and removed the saddle and bridle. Jim brushed Gold down and groomed him. The whole time Jim quietly talked to Gold telling him how much he missed Gold and enjoyed being back on him. Zac was smiling until Gold reached over and grabbed his hat. "Hey, what do you think you're doing?" Zac said.

Gold placed the hat on Jim's head and both boys started to laugh. "I guess he thinks I need a hat," Jim stated.

"Well, we'll get you one when we go pick up supplies. Give me mine back," Jim handed Zac his hat.

After putting Gold in his stall, they headed to the tack shop. They walked in five minutes before noon. "Hey Jake, what time do you close?" Zac asked.

"I'll be locking the door in five minutes, but you guys can take your time. Jackson called me and asked me if I'd stay a little later for you. Pick out whatever you need," Jim noticed that Jake looked like he was close to twenty, maybe a little younger, but definitely around twenty. He also thought Jake looked like he might be Shoshone. he had done a report on them for school.

Jim was staring at a black saddle with silver trim and matching bridle. "Those do look good," Zac said.

"They remind me of the saddle I had in Montana," Jim stated with a tear running down his face.

"So, get it. Either Jackson will pay for it, or let you make payments. Grab matching saddle bags, too," Zac suggested.

"You don't think he'd mind?" Jim asked.

"He told me to let you have anything you want," Jake said. Jake grabbed the saddle and bridle and took it to the counter.

"Can I get that blue saddle blanket, too?" Jim asked. Zac grabbed it and saddlebags and handed them to Jake.

"Do you still have clothes for the ranch, or do you need some?" Zac asked.

Jim looked down, "I got rid of them after we moved. I didn't want any reminders that I had to get rid of Gold. So while Mom was at work, I was taking them around and giving them to people who I thought needed them. All I have is nice clothes for school."

"That's alright. We can get some new clothes for you. What size do you wear?" Zac asked.

"Strip," Jake demanded.

"What?" Jim asked.

"That's right, this is your first time meeting Jake Shadetree. He can look at you in your boxers and grab exactly what size you need," Zac stated.

"You would say something like that. You just want to see my body again," Jim said with a slight grin.

"Well, that would be a bonus, but no, Jake is good," Zac smiled.

"And you needn't worry about me trying anything. You're what, fifteen? I'll hit my twentieth birthday next week. If I tried anything, I'd be in some serious shit, even more with my wife than the law. Do you prefer Levi's or Wranglers?"

"I like both, actually," Jim said as he started to undress. He pulled the shirt over his head and Jake whistled. Jim was hesitant to drop his pants. But Zac came over and whispered in his ear. Jim got a grin on his face and Zac undid the belt and fly letting the jeans slide down Jim's legs. Jim stepped out of the jeans and Jake took one look and disappeared.

When he came back, he was carrying two pair of Levi's 517 boot cut and two pair of Wrangler Cowboy Cut jeans. He also had four t-shirts and a couple long sleeve shirts. "Can you grab him a dressy shirt, too? He may want that for when we go out." Zac said. Jim started to blush.

The last things that Jake grabbed was a pair of boots and a cowboy hat. Jim looked at the jeans, thinking Jake grabbed a couple different sizes that looked close, but both pairs of Levi's were size 29, they were a little bigger than Jim's waist size, but Jake told him that was the smallest he had without going to kids' sizes. The Wranglers were size 28. Even the button up shirts were the exact size that Jim wears. Zac grabbed a few other items Jim would need at the ranch, such as tools, gloves, and rubber boots.

Jim got dressed while Jake wrote up the invoice. He handing the invoice to Zac, the three of them put the stuff in the back of Zac's truck and the boys headed out. They could see Jake locking the door and heading to his truck. "We'll just drop the saddle and stuff off at the ranch, and leave the invoice for Jackson. We can take the clothes to my house. No sense in taking them to your old house only to move them to the new house tomorrow. My house is closer."

"Makes sense to me," Jim agreed.

As the boys were pulling in the ranch, they saw Jackson's truck heading towards them. Zac pulled to the side so Jackson could get through. He stopped beside them. "What's up boys? Thought you were done for the day. Only a security team is left at the ranch."

"We thought we'd leave the stuff Jim will use at the ranch there. With him moving, we figured that'd keep the stuff out of the way. I also have the invoice, I was planning to leave it on your desk," Zac responded.

"Let me have a look at it, then go ahead and leave it on my desk since you're headed that way," Jackson said. Zac handed over the invoice. Jackson scanned over it, handed it back and said, "Looks good. Only thing I'll add to what you owe me is the clothes, but everything else is still yours. Even after you have me paid off, should you decide to leave, they will be yours."

"Thanks, Jackson. At this time, I have no intention of ever leaving. You may be my first employer, but I don't believe I can find any better," Jim stated.

"And I hope nothing ever changes that feeling. If I ever do anything that does, feel free to talk with me about it. I have to run, picking up the boyfriend for a date."

"Boyfriend?" Zac and Jim said at the same time.

"Yeah, he worked as a volunteer with me at the other ranch. Strange enough, there was a Zack at that ranch that hooked us up. Thought we'd be perfect together, and he was right."

"All this time, I never knew you were gay. Surprised I haven't met him," Zac averred.

"You have; he works on the ranch a couple days a week. He also works as an intern in one of the law firms in town," Jackson stated.

"Oh, I have met him, but I just thought he was taking care of your legal stuff. He's kind of attractive. I'm happy for you," Zac said with a smile.

"Thanks, see you on Wednesday? Do what you need to do moving wise, and if you need a bigger truck or some extra hands, just let me know."

"Thanks again, Jackson. See you Wednesday and have fun on your date," Jim said.

As they headed down the lane, Zac looked at Jim, "Only ones at the ranch is security. I don't know about you, but I wouldn't mind getting more experienced kissing."

"I'd love to help you get more experienced," Jim said with wink.

Zac pulled up in front of the barn. He ran to the office and placed the invoice on Jackson's desk and headed back. Jim was grabbing the saddle when Zac got back. Zac grabbed the rest of the bags except the clothes that would be going to his house. They took everything to the barn and stored what would fit in the locker Jim will be using. Zac put a new lock on it and gave Jim the keys.

"You keep one key in case I forget mine," Jim said.

"Sounds like a good idea. Glad you feel you can trust me so much."

"May have just met yesterday, but I feel so close to you. I feel like if I were dangling over a cliff and the only thing that could save me was trusting you, I'd be alright," Jim stated.

"Wow! That says a lot. I feel the same way," Zac said leaning in to kiss Jim.

As they were kissing, without thinking Jim slipped his left hand under Zac's shirt and started slowly caressing his back. It kind of surprised Zac, but he enjoyed it and smiled while he kept kissing. When they separated, Zac was grinning. "What?" Jim asked.

"That felt nice," Zac said.

"That was a nice kiss. I thought the one yesterday was great but you've improved," Jim stated.

"I wasn't talking about the kiss. I meant you caressing my back during it."

Jim looked confused for a second, then his face lit up. "I did caress your back, didn't I? I was enjoying the kiss so much, it just happened. I'm glad you liked it, because it may happen again," Jim grinned.

"I hope so." He leaned in and gave Jim a quick peck. "We should take the stuff to my house, shower and change, then head to your house. I'm sure your mom will want to hear how your first day went."

When they got to Zac's house, they grabbed all the bags and headed inside. "Zac, did you get more work clothes? Don't you have enough?"

"These are Jim's. We thought it'd be silly running them to his old place to bring ‘em back tomorrow."

"Well Jim has a key, why not take them across the street instead of upstairs to bring them back down again. I promise, I won't tell that ‘realty lady'," Marilyn said with a smile.

"Thanks, Mom. That does make sense. By the way, I want to thank you again for asking me to do that favor yesterday. I got something worth more than half your commission, so you don't have to pay me for doing it."

"Thanks, hon. Can I at least give you what you lost by not going to the ranch?"

"Sure, that would be alright"

"By the way, I did laundry while you boys were out. Hope you don't mind, Jim, but I threw your clothes in, too. They're folded and on Zac's bed."

"Thanks Mom," Jim said with a chuckle and gave her a peck on the cheek.

Zac and Jim took the bags of clothes over and placed them in Jim's new bedroom. They headed back over and up to Zac's room. Zac started stripping. "If you want, we can shower together to save time," Zac said.

"There you go again, just wanting to look at my body," Jim said with a grin.

"Yeah, you caught me. But this time, I'm also giving you a chance to look at mine."

Jim started stripping, then both boys went to the bathroom. Zac started the shower and got the temperature just right. Both boys stepped in and Jim pulled Zac close. He placed his lips on Zac's and started kissing. This time, while his left hand caressed Zac's back, his right hand started caressing Zac's butt. Zac followed suit.

After they were done kissing, they washed each other. When they got out, they dried themselves and headed for the bedroom. "Zac, have you ever wondered what it would be like giving another guy a blow job?" Jim asked while he got dressed.

"Have to admit that I have. Are you asking me to give you one?" Zac asked.

"Well, I wouldn't turn it down, but I'm thinking I'd enjoy giving you one," Jim said.

"I wouldn't turn it down either, but we're already dressed," Zac stated.

"I didn't mean right now, but I definitely think I'd like for you to be the first guy that I give one to. May be too early to say it, but I think I've fallen in love with you," Jim said.

"I know the feeling. I have never felt for anyone what I feel for you. I'm gonna grab some clothes and spend the night at your house, if you don't mind. Then I can drive you to school in the morning."

Zac grabbed the extra clothes and they headed downstairs. He looked at his mom and kissed her on the cheek. "I know I have school tomorrow, but if you don't have a problem with it, I'm going to help Jim and his mom get things ready to move and spend the night there. Jim and I go to the same school, and…"

Marilyn cut him off, "I like that you're willing to help and while I'd rather you come home, it might be easier if you did spend the night. As long as Heather doesn't object, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Thanks Mom, I love you," Zac said kissing her cheek again.

"Yeah, thanks Mom," Jim said chuckling. Marilyn just smiled.

When Jim entered his house, he saw his mom on the couch. "Hi, Mom," He said as he went over and kissed her on the cheek.

Zac entered and said, "Hi, Mom," And started chuckling.

"Did you two sneak off and get married?" Heather asked.

Jim gave a funny look. "What?"

"Just teasing since Zac called me Mom," Heather responded.

"Oh, well Jim called my mom ‘Mom' because she washed his clothes while we were at the ranch," Zac stated.

"Well, I kind of liked it," Heather smiled. Looking at Jim, she added, "Mood you're in, I take it that you enjoyed being at the ranch."

"Yea, I got to ride Gold, and I found out some of the things that go on at the ranch. I have to hand it to Dad. He must have been a hard worker. No wonder he was always in great shape," Jim said. Heather could see both sadness and joy in Jim's eye as he spoke of his father.

"I'm glad you liked it. I have to go tomorrow to sign some papers. A Mr. Jackson called me today."

Zac smiled. "Jackson is his first name. Don't call him Mister," he warned.

"Yeah, if Zac does it again, he has to do push-ups," Jim stated, "Zac's planning to spend the night helping us get things ready to move, is that alright?"

"I'd never turn down help, especially from a handsome young man like Zac," Heather said. Zac started to blush.

"Geesh, Mom, he's only a year older than your son," Jim stated.

"Relax, Jim. I'm not looking at him that way. He is handsome, and if you two start dating, I would definitely approve." Now Zac and Jim started blushing. "I'm picking up new bedroom furniture tomorrow since we'll have a third bedroom. Would you like a bigger bed, or do you want to keep the one you have?"

"What size will the new bed be?" Jim asked.

"I was thinking maybe a king size, that way there'll be plenty of room for when Zac spends the night. I have a feeling there will be many of those nights. Then we can get another twin size and put both in the guest room. What do you think?"

"Sure, I'd like a bigger bed. I really can't believe you're actually giving Zac and me permission to sleep together, though," Jim said.

"Well, I'm no fool. I know if you two want to sleep together you will. I'd rather you not feel you have to hide it. And if you ever want to talk about whatever, I'm here for you."

"Thanks, Mom. I think I know what you're saying. And just so you know, we've only kissed," Jim stated.

"Well, I'm glad. Don't try and rush things. I hope you two are together for a long time. I've never seen you as happy as you are with Zac, ever."

"Wow, I really make you that happy?" Zac asked. Jim started to blush and smiled.

Jim disassembled his computer and packed it up. Zac boxed all Jim's clothes except what he'd be wearing to school the next day. Zac and Jim boxed up everything they could in Jim's room, then helped Heather with the rest of the house. It was ten in the evening when everything was ready to be moved that could be. Heather thanked Zac for helping and said she was heading to bed. Jim suggested that they head to bed, too.

"Up to you. You can sleep on the couch, I can put an air mattress down, or we can try sleeping in my bed together, but we'll have to cuddle close," Jim told Zac.

"We can try cuddling, if you're willing. I'd want to be in back though," Zac said.

"That would be nice, I think," Jim smiled.

Zac stripped to his boxers and climbed into Jim's bed. Jim stripped to his boxers and laid down beside Zac. Zac pulled the covers over them and put his arm around Jim. He kissed the back of Jim's neck and went to sleep. Jim smiled at the feeling of being loved and snuggled close to Zac and went to sleep as well.

It was five in the morning and Jim woke up. Zac's hand was rubbing his cock through his shorts. He also felt Zac's cock pressed against his ass with only the two layers of cloth between them. Jim could feel Zac's cock was getting hard. "Zac?" Jim whispered. "Are you awake?" There was no answer.

Jim carefully pulled Zac's hand off his cock and slipped out of bed. Zac's hand went immediately to rubbing his own cock. Jim walked to the bathroom and splashed some water on his face. He looked at his seven-inch hardened cock and smiled. Zac may have been asleep, but Jim was enjoying Zac messing with his cock. Jim decided to finish what Zac started.

After Jim was done and washed up, he went back to his bedroom. Zac was still asleep, but he was no longer rubbing his cock. Jim sat on the edge of the bed slightly turned so he could stare at the handsome boy laying in his bed. Without thinking, he took his finger and started moving it along the definition of Zac's muscle. This woke Zac up.

"Sorry, I was just admiring your six pack," Jim said.

"I can think of worse ways to wake up," Zac said, "Did you sleep alright cuddled like that?"

"I was fine most of the night. But you accidentally woke me up about half hour ago," Jim stated.

"What did I do?" Zac questioned.

"It was nothing, really. You must have been having a good dream because I felt your penis getting hard against my rear." Jim decided not to mention Zac rubbing his cock.

"Oh, sorry about that. I must have been dreaming about you. I remember having a dream, we were riding horses naked."

"Well, I'm going to take a shower and get ready for school. You're welcome to join me, but I must warn you, I'm still thinking about that blow job," Jim grinned.

"I definitely am looking forward to kissing in the shower again. I really liked that. As for the blow job, if you feel like doing it, I won't stop you. Just don't do it because you feel like you need to do it."

"We'll just see what happens. All I know is, you make my heart no longer ache. You make me so happy, you heard my mom," Jim said.

"I've not been through as much as you, but I know that you make me happy as well. While we've only known each other a couple days, I know that I love you. Your mom's already approved of us dating, and I would consider myself lucky to have such a handsome boyfriend. Want to go out on a date on Friday night? We can go wherever you want to eat and then to a movie. It'll be my treat."

Jim kissed Zac, then ran to the bathroom. Zac walked in and Jim already had his boxers off and was setting the shower temperature. Zac slipped his boxers off and grabbed Jim. He pulled him into the shower, turned him around and pressed his lips to Jim's. Jim felt Zac's tongue enter his mouth and he didn't even act like he was going to stop it. Nothing felt as right as Zac loving him with his tongue.

The boys finished their shower, got dressed and went downstairs. Jim started fixing eggs sunny side up. And Zac was cooking sausage links. While waiting to flip the eggs, Jim started a pot of coffee. Zac started preparing toast.

Heather was coming downstairs as the boys were putting breakfast on the table. "Did you boys sleep well?" She asked.

"We did, thank you for asking. I'll bring Jim here right after school so we can start loading my truck. I think we can get everything moved to the new house today, but it might take you a few days to unpack."

"Well, let's not kill ourselves trying. We have until the end of the month to get everything out of here. Let's do the bedrooms and kitchen today. We can move one room at a time to make everything easier to keep track where it goes."

"That would make sense. Also, Jackson said that if we need any help to let him know, so while you're there, if he offers, it's up to you whether you want to take him up on it," Zac told her.

"Jackson sounds like a really nice guy. If he offers, I may just do that. I'm so glad you found a job where you're so happy and have such a great boss."

"Yeah, other than the hard work on occasion, it's almost like getting paid to have fun," Jim said smiling.

Zac and Jim headed to school. As Jim entered homeroom, Dusty Bear spotted him. Dusty gave him a funny look, "Dude, what happened to you this weekend?"

"What do you mean?" Jim asked.

"You're smiling. You should do that more often," Dusty teased. "Hey everyone, Jim actually knows how to smile."

"His face didn't crack?" a boy named Michael joked.

"NO, it looks all intact," Dusty said staring intently at Jim's face. Jim just smiled and shook his head.

"Alright, I admit, I wasn't very pleasant to be around and tried pushing everyone away. I owe everyone an apology and I'm sorry doesn't even begin to cover it," Jim said taking the kidding in stride.

"No apology necessary so long as you just let us get to be your friend."

Dusty looked at Jim, "We're doing lunch today. I want to hear all about your weekend."

"OK, but do you mind if someone joins us. He and I are becoming serious, I think," Jim said.

"So, you have a boyfriend? Dude, if he's the cause of you smiling, I'm all for it. I'd love to meet him." Dusty whispered.

All the teachers noticed Jim's lighter mood and willingness to chat with his fellow classmates. They also noticed that he put more effort into his work and the class. One teacher even came up and asked what he did with the real Jim Bolt. Jim just laughed.

Jim and Dusty had fourth period class together, so when it let out, they headed to the cafeteria. Jim offered to buy Dusty's lunch. Said that he felt like he owed him big time. Dusty told him that he didn't but if it made him feel better, then he could pay. Jim looked around for Zac but didn't see him, so he and Dusty sat at a table. Cheyenne joined them.

Jim started telling Dusty about his weekend when he saw Zac enter the cafeteria. He stood up and Zac saw him. Zac sat down beside Jim and Jim introduced him. "Dude, whatever you did to him, keep it up," Dusty said. "You should have seen him just last week."

"All I really did was take him to the ranch where I work. He got reunited with Gold…" Zac started.

"Wait, the same horse he left in Montana? That's cool," Dusty said. "Speaking of which, my dad and I talked this weekend and while I'm not sure if you still need it or not, he said he'd give you two hours free to evaluate you and see if he could help you. You and your mom would just need to set up a time."

"Couldn't hurt talking with him for a couple hours. He may help me deal with the loss of Shadow. That's one pain that Zac just can't take away," Jim said with a little sadness.

"No, but I'd let you pet me, and I'd lick your face," Zac said licking the air towards Jim. That caused Jim to crack up. "Anyway, after school, we're moving Jim to his new house. Anyone want to help? I'm sure we could use the muscle."

"I'm in," Dusty said.

"Not really sure how much muscle I can put in, but I'll help what I can," Cheyenne stated.

Michael was walking by taking his empty tray to the counter. "Need muscle, I'll help. What are we doing?"

"Helping Jim move. His mom bought a new house," Dusty said.

"Sure, my dad's going on a business trip and borrowed my car. I have his truck all week," Michael stated.

"Great, after last class, we'll all meet and head to my house. Why weren't you all this nice before?" Jim chuckled.

"We tried, dude," Michael stated. Dusty laughed.

School let out, and the three vehicles headed to Jim's old place. Jim unlocked the door and called out for his mom. He looked around and everything was gone. Even upstairs was empty. They got back in the cars and headed for the new house.

In the driveway were three trucks with "Another Chance" logo on the side. Some of the trucks still had stuff on them, but they were quickly being unloaded. Jim found his mom directing where to put everything. "When I signed the paperwork granting my permission for you to work at the ranch, Jackson asked how the moving was going. I told him that we had everything packed, but were waiting for you two to get out of school to move it. I think he sent every one of his employees there to get it moved. He's here someplace."

"Yeah, that doesn't surprise me any. I'm really glad that I started working for him. Some of my classmates came to help, too. Guess, I should go grab some stuff and bring it in," Jim said.

"Nope, you and your mom just let us know where to put it. We have enough people here, especially with those you brought," Jim heard Jackson say behind him.

"Can I at least treat everyone to dinner when we're done?" Heather asked.

"How about tonight, you and Jim take time to get settled in. On Saturday, we'll have a big old barbecue at the ranch. I'll supply the beef, you supply everything else," Jackson suggested.

"Sounds like a plan. But can I at least hug you before you leave?" Heather offered.

"Nothing in my hands right now, if you really want to give me a hug," he said.

Heather looked at Jim, "I'll stay down here and direct everyone. When they have bedroom stuff, I'll direct them upstairs and you can direct them as to which room to put it in."

"Sure, Mom, sounds easy enough," Jim said.

With all the help, it didn't take long to get the trucks unloaded. Jackson and his crew headed back to the ranch. Michael, Dusty and Cheyenne hung around for a few hours, but they eventually left. Zac and Jim set up Jim's room with the new bed and matching dresser, and Jim's computer desk. Zac laid down on the new bed.

"This bed is so comfortable. Come lay down." Zac said. Jim laid down beside Zac and before he knew it, he was asleep.

It was around eight when the doorbell rang. Heather being the only one awake answered it. "Marilyn, come looking for Zac?"

"Hope he's been helpful..." she started, then saw how much work had been done.

"Zac, your mom's here." Heather yelled but no one answer. They went upstairs and saw Jim's door was wide open, so they walked in. They saw Zac and Jim asleep on the bed. Both of their legs were over the side and Jim was snuggled against Zac's right shoulder. He had a pleasant smile on his face.

"Should we wake them?" Heather asked.

"No, leave them sleep. From the look of things, they probably wore themselves out. Besides, they look so cute like that." Marilyn replied. They turned off the light, left the room, and closed the door.

It was dark when Jim woke up. He could smell Zac and smiled as the scent made him feel good. His first thought was ‘Who turned off the lights?' then he wondered what time it was. He looked at the clock by his bed and read 10:00. Jim looked around the room as best he could in the dark to orient himself with the new surroundings. Seeing where the bathroom door was, he headed there.

Jim drained his bladder and washed his face. Now that he was more awake, he went back to his room and woke Zac up. Zac looked at the time. "Oh crap, my mom is probably pissed that I've not come home yet." he said as he went out of the room and downstairs.

Heather was sitting on the couch sipping coffee and reading. "Hey, Zac. Your mom was here earlier."

"How upset was she?" Zac asked.

"She wasn't. She saw all the work we did and it didn't surprise her that you must have been tired. We saw you boys sleeping and she thought you two looked too cute to wake up." Heather assured him. Then with a smile, she added, "If you want to spend the night you can, I mean across the street is so far to travel this time of night."

"Thanks, I'll just need to go over before school to change clothes." Zac said and went back upstairs.

He walked into Jim's room as Jim was undressing. "Geesh, Mom, you could have kn…" Jim started before he saw who it was.

"But I'm not your mom and knocking wouldn't have been any fun." Zac said as he stared at Jim who had just pulled his boxers back up.

"I thought you left." Jim stated.

"Apparently, my mom gave permission for me to spend another night with you." Zac responded.

"I really need to thank your mom." Jim said moving closer to Zac. He put his arms around Zac and pulled him closer. He started kissing Zac.

"I sure hope you don't thank my mom this way." Zac said before he pressed his lips to Jim's and slipped his tongue into Jim's wanton mouth.

Jim lifted Zac shirt up and separated just long enough to lift it over Zac's head. He kissed Zac's neck and made his way slowly down. Zac was caressing Jim's body as Jim kept kissing. Jim started sucking on Zac's nipples and Zac let out a low moan. Jim went back and pressed his lips to Zac's mouth.

A few minutes had past and Jim looked Zac in the eye. "I've never felt anything like I do right now. I want to do more than kiss you but I'm not sure what. I've never done anything more than kissing with anybody."

"Well, you're the first person I've even kissed, and I hope you're the last. I've never done anything else either."

"Except last night." Jim said.

"What? I know you told me that I got hard and my dick was pressed against your ass, but we both had our boxers on so I don't think that counts." Zac said.

"Actually, I didn't tell you everything. What I told you was true, but when I woke, you were stroking my dick through my boxers." Jim said feeling uneasy whether he should have told Zac.

"Dude, I am so sorry, you must have been freaking." Zac apologized.

"Truth is, I was partly freaking because I think I enjoyed it. It also caught me by surprise, but it definitely didn't upset me." Jim admitted.

"Well I've never had anything like that happen, but I can imagine that it's perfectly normal to enjoy someone stroking your dick." Zac offered.

"Well, I know we just woke up, but it's almost eleven. I was going to check my email and then head to bed. You can stay up if you like." Jim explained.

"No, I think I'm going to get comfortable and go to bed myself. We have this big bed now, so we don't have to sleep so close together, but I wouldn't mind if we did." Zac offered.

"I know when I woke up with my head on your shoulder, I felt so comfy. I like feeling you beside me. At least this time, if you start doing something in your sleep, I don't think I'd freak." Jim stated.

"Hmmm, I might do it and pretend to be asleep." Zac joked.

 

I hope you enjoy the story and that it draws you in, wanting more. If you have any suggestions or concerns, don’t hesitate to email me.  Thoughts and suggestions are always welcomed and may or may not be implemented. Concerns will be considered and addressed as much as possible.

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