Liaisons

The small bar was dark and intimate with hushed voices and dark jazz playing in the background. Ken Hutchinson scanned the place upon first entering and almost nodded in approval. It was quiet, out of the way and given the mixed couples he was seeing, few questions would be asked.

Hutch brushed through the crowd and moved to the bar. After sitting, he ordered a vodka and tonic, then began scoping out the patrons. Every few months, he thought with a near smile. A person could almost set a clock by him. It was as often as he dared even though fortune smiled only sporadically at best.

All his life he had done everything asked of him and without question Hutch had followed. He was told to get good grades and he did. He was told what activities to excel in and he did. His parents had bristled at his chosen college, but granted their approval upon learning of the fine law school it offered. Hell, Hutch even married the woman they wanted.

Vanessa offered much in the way of beauty and brains. He took her out to meet his parents and the expected blessing came. A lavish Hutchinson wedding was arranged and after a quick honeymoon to the Cayman Islands, he returned with his new bride to California.

Hutch went back to finish college, started working part time in a law firm ran by a friend of his father’s, and continued on as expected. He was now reaching the end of his first year in law school.

Even doing the expected, deep burrowed secrets remained inside and only when the pressure got too much he would go in search of that companion where pretense wasn’t needed. They were fleeting encounters with an occasional first name exchanged, but he always found temporary release.

He heard about the place from a surreptitious conversation in the library. The few details he gleaned seemed to indicate this little out of the way spot would suit his purposes. Final exams were approaching, his boss was pushing for Hutch to join the firm upon graduation and Van had maxed out the MasterCard for the third time since their marriage. Hutch was ready to break and rather than blowing a fuse he escaped.

He sipped his drink and looked around at the customers who appeared to be having a good time. Couples were in the corners and out on the dance floor. He caught two men slipping out the back door to the alley. It struck Hutch as an odd place for a back door, but the easy access and escape made sense.

“Need another one?”

Hutch looked over his shoulder at the lean black man standing not far away. He turned on the stool and watched the man slide onto the one next to him. “Sure.”

Some would call him skinny and wiry. Trim and fit he was in Hutch’s eyes. The long fingers playing with the cigarette were practiced and sure of themselves. There was thoughtfulness behind the brown eyes and as dark as he was, the ebony skin appeared smooth. Hutch’s cock twitched in response.

Another drink was set before him and after finishing the one in his hand he set it aside and grabbed the next. “Thanks.

“Never seen you here before.”

“I heard about it a couple of weeks ago.”

The golden boy had Huggy Bear’s full attention as soon as he walked into the place. He knew what he was looking at and hadn’t hesitated to make his way over. “Wanna dance?”

Hutch shook his head. “I don’t do much dancing.”

“Of course you don’t. Not why you came here.”

Their eyes met and Hutch shifted on the seat. His jeans were growing tight at the low timbered voice beckoning to him. “No, it’s not,” he admitted.

Huggy moved in a little closer. “Name’s Huggy Bear.”

The whiskey scented breath mixed with cigarette smoke enticed Hutch in more ways than he ever imagined. “Hutch.”

He winced inside at the slip. Normally, his first name was always used, but his guard had wavered just enough for the nickname escape. If Huggy noticed, he didn’t show it.

“I know the owner. He’s got a room upstairs he lets me use.”

Hutch took a nervous drink and exhaled the breath he’d been holding. There was no doubt in his mind. Vanessa would be gone for hours with her country club friends. She probably wouldn’t make it in before dawn. This wouldn’t be brief and he could let loose all that he had bottled up inside of him. “Yeah.”

The warm hand took his arm and Hutch’s cock tightened at the intimate contact. He felt weak as Huggy led him through the crowd to the stairs. Hutch trailed behind as Huggy unlocked the door and held it open.

It was small. A full size bed in the corner got his attention almost immediately. Huggy made sure the door was locked and pulled out his cigarettes and lighter. He handed both to Hutch. “Go ahead and have one. Gimme a minute.”

Hutch had never touched cigarettes. Unless you count the joint I had my freshman year of college, he silently commented. As Huggy began readying the bed and made other preparations, Hutch lit one of them and even with the burning of his throat, it did the trick in relaxing him more.

While Huggy was in the bathroom, Hutch stuck the smoke in his mouth and sat down in the nearby chair. He kicked off his shoes and pulled off the socks. He leaned back and took a few more drags off the cigarette. Upon hearing the bathroom door, Hutch straightened and started unbuttoning his shirt.

“No, man, don’t do that.”

Hutch’s eyes went to Huggy. All he wore was his pants and the lean dark body made him more curious. He’d never been with a black man before. This man was different. So appealing he was that Hutch’s cock bobbed its approval.

Huggy took the smoke from Hutch’s lips, inhaled then snubbed it out in an ashtray. He pulled Hutch’s hand and brought him to his feet. The first touch was almost Hutch’s undoing. A quick flash of Van screeching about their small apartment was enough to bring the stiff member under control.

His breathing became a little heavier when Huggy started the process of removing Hutch’s shirt. The fingers on his skin caused him to warm and he had to suppress the urge to take the man into his arms. Hutch wanted this to last a long time and he prayed it would.

A spell overcame him as the shirt fell to the floor. He breathed even harder at Huggy’s approval. “Damn, you are one fine man.”

The voice inside of Hutch refused to speak and when Huggy stepped in even closer, he relished the warmth and closeness. When Huggy’s lips found that tender place where his neck and shoulder met, Hutch moaned. He held onto Huggy’s hips as the mouth worked its magic.

Yeah, this is it. What he needed and wanted forever and a day was happening now in this room. Hutch was in his comfort zone and all barriers came down as Huggy worked his magic.

“All blond and all mine,” Huggy whispered into Hutch’s ear. “Do I got you for the entire night?”

“Yeah,” Hutch breathed. “All night.”

“I’ll need it,” Huggy chuckled in a low voice and continued his pleasurable task.

Hutch couldn’t take it any longer and began pushing Huggy towards the bed. They both sat at the same time and Huggy put Hutch to his back. His mouth began its work downward and once at the nipple, Hutch arched his back and groaned his appreciation.

Huggy moved further on top of Hutch as he tongued the golden skin. He almost grinned when Hutch began his own exploration by running hands on top of his head to his neck and shoulders. The fevered breathing, tangy skin and sandalwood aroma were heaven and Huggy intended to take full advantage of this treasure lying beneath him.

He moved further down and his chest rested on Hutch’s crotch. He dipped his tongue into the navel and the sensitive response pleased Huggy. He could feel the hard mound digging into his sternum. He needed to slow him down.

Huggy slid lower and was at his knees. He looked at the rapture on Hutch’s sweat-covered face. He took the brief moment to run his hands up Hutch’s long thighs to his chest. His own body reacted with impatience as he went to the dark nipples. They rose immediately under his ministration.

The outside world ceased to exist the moment Huggy dragged his hands back down to the button on Hutch’s jeans. The cock had grown considerably and the moment he opened the snap a sigh of relief escaped Hutch. Eagerness threatened his impatience and as he pulled the zipper down the jeans opened up.

When Huggy pulled the pants down dragging the underwear with them he was delighted in seeing Hutch’s cock spring to life at newfound freedom. He tossed them aside and moved farther up. Huggy admired the erection. “Damn, you put a nigger to shame.”

Hutch was dying a thousand deaths just from the anticipation alone. His hands went to the spread and turned into fists grasping the cover. “Yeah,” he encouraged when Huggy took hold of his hard dick.

Pumping on the erection, Huggy was just as eager as his new lover. His own cock was begging for release, but he could take the time. From all indications, Hutch couldn’t. Just in the short amount of time they’d been together, he’d put the story together. The dying anticipation on the man’s face told him it’d been a while.

When the hot mouth took him, Hutch almost flew off the bed. The lips and the hand worked simultaneously to bring him to the edge. He wondered how long his body would be there. On one hand it was hard to take and on the other he wanted it to last forever. He was flying and when he didn’t think he could go higher, he did.

“Goddamn,” Huggy whispered. “You’re so damn hot.” He ran his tongue along the underside of the cock until it reached Hutch’s sac then drew a testicle between his lips. Huggy wanted to chuckle at the obscenity of pleasure which escaped Hutch as he rolled it around his mouth.

Huggy pulled away and changed his position on the bed. He licked Hutch’s nipple then raised his head. He brought his free hand to Hutch’s mouth and watched as the blond sucked on his two fingers until they were moistened to his satisfaction.

Hutch looked into Huggy’s eyes and licked his lips. The brown eyes glittered with desire. Spreading his legs wider, his eyes never wavered. His head fell back when a digit began probing his center. He felt the long slim finger work its way inside and widened his legs further to enable access.

When his lover moved his butt for more probing, Huggy indulged him with a second finger. “Shit, yeah,” Hutch said in a low voice. “More.”

The sensations doubled with a mouth on Hutch’s cock and two fingers in his ass. He rocked back and forth taking in and pulling out. It had been too damn long and Hutch was lost in the heat of the moment. Please, last all night, he silently begged.

Huggy’s tongue snaked out and he took more of Hutch’s cock into his mouth. The act was Hutch’s undoing and when his entire erection was embedded deep into Huggy’s mouth the throat moved. “Fuck!” A wild orgasm exploded and continued for an eternity it seemed like. His hips bucked and the mouth milked the essence from him.

Hutch rolled his head back and closed his eyes. “God, that was…”

“Yeah.” Huggy grinned and moved up Hutch’s body. “You carry some load, Hutch. Damn near choked on it.”

“You okay?”

Huggy licked Hutch’s ear. “You taste damn good.”

It was the first time Hutch had smiled in a while. He put Huggy on his back and his hands went to the belt. It took only seconds to remove the pants and when Hutch saw the large organ he stared. The long black erection was almost menacing in appearance, but the temptation was as enticing as sweet chocolate.

Hutch tilted his head as he took the cock in hand. He ran his fingers along taking in every detail.

“Ain’t ever had one of these before?” Huggy questioned. He could tell Hutch didn’t want to voice it for fear of offending him. “A big black cock normally scares the shit out of white folks.”

Hutch wrapped his hand around the member. “Is it true what they say about never going back?”

Huggy’s chuckle was low and dirty. “Wouldn’t know. I never asked.” He sat back on his elbows and watched Hutch’s exploration. While his body ached for release, Huggy wasn’t about to stop him. This was someone he could get used to and he hoped the feeling was mutual. It would take more than one night to tire of Hutch.

It was a heady taste as Hutch began a slow lick along the underside. Huggy’s groan of pleasure made him smile. He had yet to explore the entire body, but was in no hurry. This was going to be an all night venture.

He had never taken a cock all the way in his mouth to his throat before and Hutch wasn’t sure if he could do it with this monster. Rather than make the effort tonight and possibly ruin the mood, he decided taking what he could, loving it and giving pleasure was the best course of action.

The voyaging with his mouth on the erection was purposeful and erotic as hell. Hutch took what he could and used his tongue to heighten the sensation. Given the moans of pleasure and words of encouragement, he knew he was doing more than an adequate job. Tasting a hard willing cock was something Hutch had missed. Previous encounters were usually brief and not many were in a bed. It was mostly groping and rubbing with whispered pleasure.

“Okay, man…enough,” Huggy lightly warned. “I’m not ready to blast off yet. I want a handful of that fine ass.”

Willing to accommodate, Hutch moved farther back on the bed and propped his head on a pillow. He was surprised to realize the lamp light was still on. Hutch made no move to turn it off. He wanted it on. Watching the firm lean body coming towards him, Hutch’s dick twitched in anticipation.

Huggy got into the bed next to him and Hutch rolled next to him. Their hands covered each other’s bodies and took in every contour and line. Huggy twisted away and opened the drawer to the small nightstand. He found the lube and removed the cap.

Hutch took the tube from him. “Let me.”

He squeezed a small amount on his hand and when Huggy moved to his back, Hutch proceeded to ready the black cock for him. It was big and might hurt some. It had been a while and his body might rebel, but Hutch’s want was past that.

When Hutch finished, Huggy set the lube aside and moved to his knees. He maneuvered his blond to his side and scooted in next to him. Huggy brought his fingers to Hutch’s opening and probed even more until he had three fingers inside stretching to help pave the way.

He lifted Hutch’s leg, moved his hips until his cock was well-positioned. Once he began, Huggy saw that there was still some tightness and pushed on. The head went in and Hutch groaned.

It hurt more than what Hutch expected. Not deterred in the least he moved to enable more of Huggy’s erection inside of him. Needing more stimulation, Hutch brought his free hand to his cock and pumped on it several times as the hard member worked its way inside. The added stimulation helped and once Huggy was firmly in place, the added pressure to his prostrate furthered his pleasure.

Huggy began slow and easy. He was concerned about the amount of pain, but when Hutch answered every thrust with an equal and opposite movement, the pleasure became apparent.

The mixture of plain and pleasure was a great aphrodisiac for Hutch. He wanted more, needed more and kept up with the pace. His cock was coming alive once again and as the heat built inside of him Hutch hurried for more.

Huggy was getting too damn close too fast. The tight ass had his erection in a grip and wasn’t about to relent. He pushed Hutch onto his stomach and rolled with him never breaking the rhythm. He grabbed onto Hutch’s shoulders and began pounding into him with no letting up.

Hutch was yelling his pleasure/pain. He arched his back and closed his legs.

Huggy repositioned his own long legs outside of Hutch’s body and kept moving. The tightness increased and he growled as his orgasm was being heightened and pulled in agonizing gratification.

Hutch’s cock was at complete attention and Huggy’s thrusting into him caused the friction to increase along with the sexual high he was feeling. He was going to come again. God, this was it. The fury of his wantonness doubled. “Goddamn! I’m gonna…!”

After several more hard thrusts, Huggy orgasmed and the ass clenched taking more from him. “Fuck, yeah!”

It was immediate that Hutch found his second release in the tangled sheets. Both men collapsed with their sweaty bodies fused together in the aftermath of their sexual frenzy.

Huggy was slow to extract himself from Hutch’s body, then rolled off. He got to his feet and put a hand on the wall to steady himself. “Bro, if that’s an indication of what’s to come tonight, I’ll die an old man by morning.”

Hutch laughed a little and grabbed hold of a pillow. He turned to his back and watched Huggy cross the room to a compact fridge in the corner. He propped himself up on the pillow as his lover came back with two cold beers. Hutch took one and accepted a cigarette as well.

The both got comfortable on the bed with beers and smokes. Huggy took a long drag then looked at Hutch. “Been a while, huh?”

“Yeah.” Hutch took a drink from the bottle. “It’s been crazy.”

“Normal thing to do is not getting personal.”

“In situations like these?”

The corner of Huggy’s mouth came up in a half smile. “Go for it.”

Hutch inhaled the smoke, then blew it out. “Finals are coming up, boss wants me fulltime and...”

“And it’s been a while,” Huggy added.

“Yeah,” Hutch admitted. He toyed with the cigarette in his fingers. “This is where either I fuck, get fucked or tell the world to get fucked.”

“Sometimes all of the above.”

Hutch shrugged his shoulders and drank more of the cold beer. The sweat was starting to dry and his sated body relaxed even further. “Only when it’s possible.”

“Double lives certainly suck, m’man.”

“You, too?”

Huggy shook his head. “Not really, but I seen enough. White breads like you trying to be who they want to be, but they ain’t even when they are.”

“Is that what you think I am?”

“Not sure, yet. Time’ll answer that question.”

“If I’ve got a story, you sure as hell have one, Huggy.”

With a laugh, Huggy shook his head. “Tell me yours and I’ll tell you mine?”

“You’ve been around enough to know mine.”

“Lifestyles of the poor and androgynous works for me. I ain’t got no one to answer to except for the mirror I see every morning.”

Hutch lowered his eyes and used the cigarette to push the ash around in the ashtray. “Makes life easier, don’t it?”

“Mine ain’t so complicated as most.”

“I’ve drawn a perfect line,” Hutch told him. “It’s clearly marked and the two sides will never know the other exists.”

“How long has that strategy worked for you?”

“Long enough.” Hutch’s smile was half-hearted. “I have no trouble separating the two.”

“And the rest of the world sees the perfect all-American golden boy,” Huggy added.

“Only because it’s what they want to see.” Hutch put the cigarette out after taking a final drag. He tipped the bottle and finished it off. He set the items on the nearby nightstand.

Huggy’s eyes sparkled with want as he leaned towards Hutch. “I think the after-fucking conversation is over.”

Hutch gave him a knowing smile. “We’ve talked too much as it is.”

They explored every inch of each other’s bodies throughout the remainder of the night. There was no holding back on Hutch’s part and he relished the freedom to explore, satisfy and be satisfied. Without the heavy restrictions on his other life, this one offered him much more in the way of release and comfort.

The sun was just beginning to rise when both men decided it was time to end the interlude. Hutch grabbed a final cigarette and lit it. He sat to put his shoes on and glanced up to see Huggy buttoning his shirt. “Listen, if you ever want to get together again…”

“I’m one step ahead of you.” Huggy pulled a card out of his pocket. “When the need hits, just call this number. We’ll hook up here if you want.”

Hutch took the card. “Yeah, I’d like that.”

“I don’t give that out to just anybody. Don’t forget it.”

After slipping the card in his pocket, Hutch stood and picked up his jacket. “Huggy, thanks.”

“I ought to be thanking you, Hutch. Finest sex I’ve had in a while. The wet dreams will be uncontrollable,” Huggy finished with a grin.

Hutch chuckled. “Same here. Take care.”

“Be seein’ you.”

Huggy watched him leave and shook his head. He still wanted more time with the golden man. He needed more nights…days, too, he mentally added.

~*~

Hutch almost groaned when he saw the used Rolls in their parking space. He stepped out of the cab and after paying the driver, he hurried inside to the elevator. It was a stylish apartment complex and cost him plenty. He had wanted a house with a yard, but Van insisted on the upscale accommodations. As expected, Hutch went along even against his better judgment.

Once in the apartment, Hutch saw his wife’s purse on the couch. He stood in the hallway and undressed. He was careful not to wake her as he walked into the room and even more so as he slipped in between the sheets.

“Where’ve you been?” was the accusatory question.

Hutch closed his eyes. “Out.”

Van turned over and swept the dark hair back with her hand. “All night?”

“When’d you get in?”

The battle lines were already drawn and she didn’t look to be giving an inch. “Fine.” Van rolled to her side with her back to Hutch.

He took a deep breath and chastised himself for being a jerk. She had every right to question him. Hutch leaned towards her. “Van, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have stayed out so late.”

Vanessa pushed him away in disgust. “God, you smell like cigarettes!”

Hutch considered apologizing again, but closed his mouth. He moved away to the other side of the bed. His mind went back to the night spent with Huggy and Hutch began calculating the next opportunity he’d have.

~*~

Over the next three months Hutch and Huggy had infrequent encounters with the busy schedule that always seemed to get in the way. It was easy to keep the two lives he lived separate from one another. Huggy, on the other hand, had no such duality.

After a hellish week both at work and Van’s temperament, Hutch made the call and arrangements were made for that night. His wife was headed to San Francisco for the weekend and seeing two whole days ahead alone with Huggy brought a smile to his face.

Hutch even considered bringing Huggy to the apartment, but quickly dismissed the idea. It would violate the rules he had made plus word was bound to get around for the questionable company he kept. The unspoken rule of the complex was exclusivity.

He was driving through one of the worst parts of the city on his way to a new meeting place when the traffic slowed down. Much to Van’s displeasure Hutch found a beaten old Ford flatbed pickup. He liked the vehicle and was pleased when she swore never to set foot in it. He cared less about the disapproving looks from other tenants and his coworkers. He was proud of the act of rebellion.

What got his attention was the ambulance blocking one lane of traffic and sitting behind it was the police car. On the sidewalk was a uniformed officer speaking with a distraught woman holding an infant. Coming up behind them was another one with a greasy haired man in dirty jeans with hands cuffed behind his back.

Hutch was mesmerized by the entire scene. He was moved beyond degrees he could describe by the way the victim, he assumed, was comforted with a gentle hand to the shoulder and the touching of the infant she held. Seeing what he believed to be the perpetrator set in the backseat of the police car Hutch saw an instance of making a difference that would likely make a profound impact on that woman’s life and possibly the baby she held as well.

He was witnessing a moment that he knew would remain with him for the rest of his days and it offered him something he knew he had to have. What it was, Hutch couldn’t be sure.

The honking of the horn from the vehicle behind him got his attention and Hutch drove on. The image remained with him and even after arriving at the bar to meet with Huggy, it still was at the forefront of his mind.

He spotted Huggy at the end of the bar talking with someone, but who he couldn’t tell with the crowd milling about. Hutch reached him and his eyes went to the other man. He faltered at seeing the man because of the intense attraction that hit him.

“Hutch, didn’t think you were going to make it,” Huggy told him.

He tore his eyes away and glanced at Huggy. “I got held up.”

“This is my good friend Dave Starsky. Starsky, the original white bread himself, Ken Hutchinson who is more likely to answer to the name of Hutch.”

Hutch took a deep breath and held out his hand. “Hi.”

“Hey, yourself,” Starsky said taking the outstretched hand.

Hutch regained control of his hormones. Even as fascinated as he was, he could tell this man had no interest in the same sex. But the wanting never subsided for Hutch. Tight faded denim left little to the imagination and the sumptuous dark curls were enticing. Starsky’s dark blue eyes danced with mischief and when Hutch looked into them he could easily be lost.

Huggy took the opportunity to motion towards the pool table. “Hey, Starsky, that table you wanted is going to be opening up in a few.”

“Oh, yeah.” Starsky straightened. “Be right back.”

After he was gone, Huggy moved close to Hutch. “I got a call a few minutes ago. Seems my cousin saw fit to run off with the reverend’s daughter.”

“To where?”

“Vegas. They think they’re in love.” Huggy rolled his eyes. “I’ve been appointed the unenviable task of retrieving the lovebirds so they can face the fury of their very uptight parents.”

Hutch knew his disappointment was showing. “So tonight’s off.”

“Considering how big Vegas is and my limited resources in that fine city I’d say the rest of the weekend is out of the question.”

To say Hutch was let down was an understatement. He took a smoke from Huggy’s pack and lit it. “It’s okay, Hug. It’ll give me a chance to catch up on the rest of the world.”

The light chuckle from Hutch was telling. Huggy was discouraged himself. He had been looking forward to a night of hot sex and the interesting discussions they’d had in the past. Hutch’s personal life remained off-limits. It was the bigger questions of life they discussed which crossed politics, religion and much larger issues. Even the little shit wasn’t immune to their appraisal.

Huggy prided himself on his ability to walk away from anything and anyone when the moment called for it. But Hutch was a walking contradiction. One life was the process of building the all-American dream of being a lawyer and inheriting the family fortune. The other was behind closed doors and Hutch expressed physically and intellectually all that he suppressed in his other life. He had to admit it. Loving Hutch was getting easier and Huggy couldn’t call it off. He didn’t want to. He had no problem with being greedy as far as whom he called ‘his blond’ was concerned.

They both looked up at Starsky’s approach. “You two want to join me in a game of pool?”

Huggy gave Hutch’s shoulder a meaningful squeeze. “Go ahead, Hutch. I’ve got family business to deal with.”

“Sure.” Hutch didn’t mind at all. In fact, he was looking forward to getting to know this intriguing man more. “I’ll buy you a beer.”

For the next hour Starsky and Hutch played pool, traded light-hearted barbs and they both grew comfortable in the easy presence of the other. After getting some beer, they headed to a corner booth and sat across from each other.

“You gave me a run for my money,” Starsky told him.

“You’re a natural.” Hutch grinned and lifted the glass. “It’ll take a while before I can actually beat you.”

“Only if you can afford it.”

Hutch chuckled. “I’ll be sure to practice.”

“How long have you known Huggy?”

“A few months.” Hutch was careful with his words and made the decision to keep it as vague as possible. “You?”

“About a year. A guy at my uncle’s garage is friends with him.” Starsky finished off his beer, then pulled a cigarette out of his pocket. After lighting it, he glanced at Hutch. “I was thinking of hitting a drive-in tonight. Wanna go?”

“What’s playing?”

Starsky shrugged. “Don’t know.”

“Sure.”

Starsky stepped out of the booth and started heading for the door. He looked over his shoulder at Hutch. “I’ll warn you. I’m using my aunt’s car until the brake work on mine is finished.”

They stepped outside and Hutch looked at his old pickup. “Let’s take mine.”

Seeing the ten year old vehicle with dents and rust, Starsky froze. “This heap is yours!”

Offended, Hutch stepped in front. “Easy, now. She’s got a sensitive disposition.”

“You sure she’s got one? Looks like it’s been beaten into submission.”

Starsky’s first name escaped Hutch’s memory for some reason. “Starsky, it would make more sense to take it. I’ve got a blanket under the seat and we can sit in relative comfort in the back. There’s even an ice chest we can fill with ice, beer and whatever else you’d like.”

The idea had some appeal and would be by far more comfortable than the old worn out seats in his aunt’s car. “Okay.”

An hour later, both were comfortable in the back of the pickup while ‘The Sound of Music’ played on the large screen in front of them. Hutch liked the musical and Starsky groaned at having to sit through it before ‘The Man With The X-ray’ eyes came on.

Starsky’s eyes traveled to his companion. He started at the long legs and stopped at the light blond hair. “You don’t seem the type.”

“Type?”

“Yeah.” Starsky handed Hutch a cigarette and took one for himself. “A drive-in, beat up old pickup and having Huggy for a friend.”

Hutch lit the smoke. “What type am I?”

“Suits, champagne and the other finer things in life.” He lifted the bottle to his lips. “Am I wrong?”

“No,” Hutch admitted. “I’ll be working in my father’s firm once I finish law school.”

“You don’t look too happy about it.” He watched Hutch shrug his shoulders. “You want to do something else?”

The image from earlier in the day came to mind. “M’ not sure. My wife certainly wouldn’t be thrilled with a change of heart.”

“You being happy with yourself seems like it should be important.”

“What about you?”

Starsky sat forward and picked up his beer. “I work at my uncle’s garage, do some moonlighting at a bar and whatever else I can to scrape a few bucks together.”

“Sounds more interesting than law school.”

“It’s not, because I don’t want to still be doing it at fifty.”

Hutch stared at Starsky for a moment. An idea was forming, well already had, but he saw someone needing more just as he did. Starsky interrupted his thoughts.

“When I was a kid my Ma sent me out here to live with my aunt and uncle. I was a handful back then and I got straightened out with the help of a neighbor. He and his wife didn’t have any kids and I suppose I was close enough. Anyway, he’s a cop.”

Heart pounding excitement burst forward in Hutch’s chest. He could see it in Starsky’s eyes. “You want to be a cop?”

“Been thinking about it for a while.”

“Jesus, Starsky, just today on my way over I saw some police officers and had an epiphany!”

“Serious?” At Hutch’s nod, Starsky was amazed at the coincidence. He knew it was much more than that. “I can talk to Johnny. He’d probably point us in the right direction of what we need to do.”

“I’ll go to the academy and pick up the applications.”

“I can’t believe this.” Starsky’s face lit up with a wide grin. “We can go and be cops. Maybe even room together.”

Hutch smiled at the idea, then remembered. His physical attraction to Starsky was still there and he’d have to keep it in check. He had no doubt that it would pass.

~*~

Hutch questioned the sanity of taking a day off of work without telling Vanessa. After getting the applications and discussing it with Starsky, they agreed to meet and complete them together. From what Starsky’s neighbor had said the next rotation was due to start in a month and he would put in a word to help expedite the process.

He saw Starsky at a booth sipping on a cola and crossed the bar. He scooted in and set his briefcase on the table. “I’m ten minutes early. How long have you been waiting?”

“Almost half an hour. I couldn’t hack waiting it out at home.” Starsky eyed the briefcase. “What’s that for?”

“Considering how much work is ahead of us I thought being organized would help.”

“Good idea.” He nervously played with the cigarette while Hutch opened up the briefcase and set out the papers. He was handed a couple of pencils. “We’re supposed to fill these out in ink.”

“We will after using pencils. It saves on mistakes and the applications look neater.”

“Oh.” Starsky set his smoke in the ashtray and pulled an application closer. He picked up the pencil and started.

Hutch stilled and looked at his friend. “You’re left-handed.”

“Yep.” Starsky raised his eyes. “And?”

“Nothing. I just don’t know many.”

Starsky set the pencil down and leaned forward. “I don’t have horns growing anywhere and I don’t cast spells. I ain’t even got an evil eye.”

“Is that what you’ve been told?”

“Ma warned me about the old wives tales floating around. I like to dispense with them right off the bat.”

Hutch kept his smile hidden. “Makes sense.” He really liked Starsky. The simplicity in his eyes and thoughtfulness of the man brought forth a soothing feeling. His presence was so powerful and when entering a room Hutch was sure everyone noticed. How could anyone not?

He managed to keep the physical attraction in check since their meeting. He’d been attracted to straight men before and putting the feelings in their proper place had never been a problem. It wouldn’t be this time. He valued the new friendship too much.

Before Hutch could begin to start on his application he looked up at Huggy motioning to him. “Be right back.”

Starsky didn’t look up as Hutch crossed the room to Huggy. “I thought you were out of the city for the day.”

“Canceled.” Huggy glanced across the bar to Starsky who was concentrating on his task. “I’ve got a free night.”

The tenseness in Hutch’s shoulders and the familiar urge still ran through him. The week of making this major change in his life without telling anyone was straining. Tonight was the night Van usually met her friends at the country club. “It’ll be late.”

“I’ll keep the bed warm.”

Hutch made plans to have dinner with Starsky and he didn’t want to break them. “About eleven give or take.”

A nod was all it took and Hutch went back to the booth. He grabbed the pencil and started on his name.

“What’d Huggy want?” Starsky asked without looking up.

“Oh, I told him I’d help with some legal advice from a soon-to-be former law student.”

Hutch was glad Starsky didn’t question him any further. The lie settled deep in the pit of his stomach and the guilt began as a tiny lump. He hoped he wouldn’t have to lie too often. Starsky didn’t deserve it.

He considered questioning Huggy about Starsky, but decided against it. It was clear David Starsky was as straight as they come. He watched the man conquer the women with a flourish. They fell so easily for his charms and at times Hutch found himself enthralled.

Besides, discussing it with Huggy would violate the careful rules Hutch had in place. He had only expressed a few basics such as a wealthy family, law school and the job he hated. He never discussed former lovers, family or even Van. There was no way Hutch was about to move the distinct line he drew between each world.

~*~

Upon arriving at Huggy’s apartment, Hutch took in the mediocrity of the building. It wasn’t upscale and trendy. It was just a normal apartment building with none of the bells and whistles his place offered.

After knocking on the door, he heard Huggy’s voice and opened it. When he stepped inside Huggy sat on the couch with a glass of scotch in hand. “You got the good stuff, didn’t you?”

“Good scotch is much harder to come by than what the general public is aware of.” Huggy raised his glass. “Help yourself.”

Hutch moved to the small bar and his eyes went to the bed against the far wall. The sheets were turned down and lube lay innocently on the nightstand. He made a drink then turned. He stood in the middle of the room and sipped his drink.

His cock stirred in anticipation at the sight of Huggy wearing a red silk robe. He sat with a casual look on his face, but his legs sat apart. Hutch almost smiled when he saw that his lover wore nothing underneath. He finished off the drink and set the glass aside.

Hutch crossed the room and got to his knees in front of Huggy. Leaning forward he took the silk strap in hand and slowly pulled until it was undone. The black cock taunted and teased him. Hutch couldn’t resist taking it in hand.

Being on his knees in this way gave him power. He felt strong and confident as a man. Those who denounced this act between men had no idea what they were talking about. The knowledge of what he could do, wanted to do went to Hutch’s head and he was drunk from the dominance he felt over this man before him.

With no hesitation on his part, Hutch took the large organ in his mouth and Huggy’s groan encouraged him on. This night he would take control and be the one to make the ebony body sweat under him.

He sucked on the cock, played with the heavy balls until Huggy came into his mouth. Hutch swallowed it all greedy for the taste. He continued pumping and taking as much liquid inside of his mouth until there was no more.

Licking his lips, Hutch got to his feet and helped Huggy to his. He pushed the robe off and tossed it on the couch. After guiding his lover to the bed, sitting him down, Hutch began undressing. Eager for the coupling, his dick hardened almost immediately.

The tightness in jeans was starting to grow to a discomforting level and as soon as Hutch removed them, he sighed in relief. He pushed Huggy to his back and crawled onto the hard body then lowered his head to the black nipple.

After sucking, licking and biting it to hardness, Hutch worked to Huggy’s neck and continued until he had positioned the man to his stomach. With his hands on Huggy’s hips, he encouraged him to his knees.

Hutch reached for the lube and dabbed some on his fingers. He pushed the longest digit inside of the tight rectum and began breathing heavy as Huggy moved back against him. A pace was set and Hutch inserted another finger with ease. He could put in a third, but there was no reason to. Huggy was more than ready as was he. His cock was heavy with want and leaked.

He withdrew his hand and positioned himself behind Huggy. His cock met the opening and Hutch pushed. With erotic wonder, he watched the head enter the black body.

“Shit, yeah,” Huggy murmured. Being filled up by Hutch in such a way was bringing him to the edge much quicker than he was prepared for.

Even with the sexual clamp the firm ass had on his dick, he pushed onward. When he was firmly seated inside of Huggy, Hutch’s head fell back and he moaned. “Damn.”

Huggy took Hutch by surprise by moving against him and in a matter of seconds they were thrusting and moving against each other hunting for that familiar orgasmic high. Their pace doubled and Hutch gripped Huggy’s hips as he pounded into him. He erupted inside the hot sweaty body and voiced his pleasure at such a powerful release.

When Huggy still hadn’t found satisfaction, Hutch reached around and took the heavy cock in hand. It only took a few thrusts for Huggy’s seed to find it way onto his hand and the sheets beneath them. He pulled away and both men fell to the bed sated and covered in perspiration.

After a few deep breaths, Hutch pushed up and swung his feet to the edge of the bed. Unmindful of his nudity, he stood and went into the living room. He searched his pockets and found the pack of cigarettes. By the time he reached the bed, Huggy had returned as well with two beers.

They got on the bed and shared the brews and smokes. Huggy took a long drag and glanced at Hutch. “You and Starsky are going to be cops.”

Hutch wasn’t quite sure how he felt about hearing Starsky’s name at this moment. Starsky was a part of his straight world even though it was Huggy who had introduced them. He didn’t want this melding of the two. He’d have to figure it out later. “The next rotation starts in two weeks. The paperwork will be pushed through so making it shouldn’t be a problem.”

Huggy studied him. He couldn’t put his finger on it, but there was a distinct change in Hutch’s mood. “I take it to mean our late night rendezvous will even be less infrequent.”

“Come on, Hug. You of all people know that cops making it with another man won’t cut it.”

“Don’t have to educate me, m’man.” Huggy inhaled the smoke. “Just say the word.”

“Yeah.” Hutch took a long drink from the beer. He looked at the cigarette in his hand. “Would you make it with a cop, Hug?”

Huggy looked at Hutch out of the corner of his eye. “Looks like I will be.”

With a chuckle, Hutch finished off the smoke. “There will be a few dry spells so don’t wait on me.”

It was on the tip of Huggy’s tongue to tell Hutch he would wait, but kept quiet. This thing with the white-bread from Minnesota was turning into more than just a couple of guys getting their rocks off. He didn’t know what to think about that. Telling Hutch was certainly out of the question. The rules had been set and laid almost from the beginning.

Huggy knew he’d be pushing it if he tried to get anymore personal at this point. Hutch didn’t want or need the entanglements. While Huggy’s feelings may be growing, and he refused to admit even to himself they had, Hutch’s wouldn’t. His lover wouldn’t allow it. Huggy didn’t have to question it.

If Hutch had wanted a relationship out of the open, Huggy would certainly oblige him. It seemed Hutch refused to accept this part of his life. It only existed to bring some sanity to living with the urges society deemed unacceptable and an abomination. As pure and innocent as Hutch looked, Huggy had no doubt he had been raised with the harsh teachings about the unacceptability of homosexuality. So into the closet it went and there it would stay.

He watched Hutch searching for his clothes and he debated asking him to stay for the night. If staying was an option he would. There were few nights when the sex lasted so long. But with responsibilities waiting for him in his straight world, Hutch would give them priority. This came second which meant Huggy came in second.

After Hutch was gone, Huggy found his robe on the floor and slipped it on. He picked up the expensive bottle of scotch and poured a drink. Chastising himself for acting like some needy wench, his smile was a bitter one. He knew the score going into this thing. He’d suck it up and take it.

~*~

Hutch slipped the key into the mailbox and opened it. He’d been leaving work in the late afternoon for the past week to check the mail before Van got home. He still hadn’t told her and felt the coward for not doing so from the beginning. The plan was to have everything set in stone before letting anyone else know. Hutch had to mentally prepare himself for the negative reactions he was sure to get.

He pulled out the mail and grimaced at the credit card bills. Spending habits will have to change, Hutch thought. Since his marriage to Vanessa, his father had subsidized their income with a generous monthly allowance. Most of it went to Vanessa’s lavish lifestyle.

When he saw the police academy insignia on a letter, Hutch’s heart almost stopped. With nervous fingers he opened it and as he read the decision he restrained himself. He wanted nothing more than to jump and yell to celebrate the good news. Starsky had been telling him not to worry. There was no reason why they wouldn’t get accepted and with the date set in two weeks, he wouldn’t have much time.

Hutch shoved the letter in his pocket and left. He was almost to the pickup when he saw Starsky pull up in his aunt’s car. He grinned when he saw him jump out and hurry over to him. Starsky wore greasy coveralls and several large smudges were painted across his face.

“I got my letter, Hutch! I thought you’d get yours…”

“I did.”

They both exchanged excited smiles and Starsky pulled Hutch to him. Hutch was startled by the sudden show of emotion, but didn’t fight the embrace. In fact he welcomed it and returned the hug. The warm strong arms enveloped him. Temptation was running through him, but what struck Hutch more than anything was the closeness he felt with Starsky. A bond was growing and he wondered if Starsky could feel it as well.

When they pulled away and he looked into Starsky’s eyes, he could see it. Their friendship had moved into a new phase with this journey they would be taking together.

The mood was broken by a long black car pulling to the curb. Hutch frowned when he saw Vanessa stepping out and on the passenger side was Elizabeth Corey, a friend from their country club.

“Well,” Van said as she walked over. “I didn’t expect to see you.”

They exchanged kisses on the cheeks and Hutch glanced at Starsky. “Starsky, this is Vanessa.”

“It’s great to meet the Mrs. Hutchinson.” He held his hand out and when he caught the distaste in her eyes, Starsky looked at his hand. It was covered in grease. He wiped it across his coveralls. “Sorry, I ran over here from work.”

In an attempt to ease the awkwardness, Hutch stepped forward. “We were making plans to get together tonight.” Hutch’s eyes met Starsky’s and he hoped the hidden message to go along got through.

Vanessa eyed Starsky with curiosity. She grinned like a Cheshire cat. “Elizabeth and I were planning on going to the club for dinner tonight. Hutch, why don’t you and your friend join us?”

Hutch could see the wheels turning in her head. “What about that new dance club instead? Starsky?”

Starsky’s eyes went from Hutch, to Vanessa, then to her friend. “Sure, sounds like fun.”

Elizabeth pushed her thick brown hair from her eyes and smiled. “I’d love it. Sounds much better than the country club.”

Vanessa gritted her teeth, but managed to smile. “It’s all set. It’ll give Elizabeth and me an excuse to go shopping for something to wear.”

“How ‘bout if I meet the three of you there,” Starsky offered. Self-conscious of his appearance, Starsky ran his hands over the dirty coveralls. “About nine?”

“Sure, Starsky.” Hutch shifted back and forth. He didn’t trust Vanessa’s easy agreement. “We’ll see you there.”

After Starsky left, Elizabeth went to the car to wait for Vanessa. He watched her approach with mistrust.

“What are you doing home so early?”

“I took a late lunch and came by for a different tie.”

Vanessa reached forward and ran her manicured nails over the tie. “The same tie you picked this morning.”

“I haven’t made it inside yet.” He knew she doubted what he was saying and it made little difference to him. “I might be a little late.”

“Did you finally need a mechanic for that beast?” She asked.

“Starsky’s a friend.”

Vanessa folded her arms and tilted her head. “Is he now? He matches your taste in cars.”

“Van…”

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.” Vanessa leaned in and kissed Hutch on the lips.

The affection was there and Hutch wanted to believe it. “It’s okay. Let’s just have a good time tonight. We both could use it.”

Her eyes gleamed as she held her hand up. “I promise to behave.”

Hutch’s laugh was a good natured one. “So will I.”

~*~

The trendy club was packed with dancers of all types. Hutch followed behind Vanessa and Elizabeth and after a quick scan, he found Starsky sitting at a table. He guided the women over and when Starsky stood, Hutch was pleased with how well he looked. He then realized the man had probably done a little shopping as well.

The jeans were brand new and Hutch was fairly sure the midnight blue shirt was as well. He wore a simple black blazer, but the effect brought out his blue eyes even more and made his hair even darker than it already was. He had to admit that Starsky had a magnetism all his own. He glanced at Elizabeth and the approval was in her eyes.

Given the smile, he had no doubt she would fall under the weighty charms of his friend. The women made their excuses and headed for the ladies room. Hutch moved close to Starsky. “Listen, there’s something I have to tell you.”

“Something wrong?”

“Vanessa doesn’t know.”

“Know what?” When Starsky looked into Hutch’s eyes, the meaning was clear. “You haven’t told her? Why the hell not?”

“It’s complicated, but I planned on it tonight. It’ll have to be tomorrow now.”

“Better be soon, buddy. Any woman would have right to send you to the doghouse for keeping something like this to yourself.”

Hutch couldn’t agree more at this point. “Don’t worry, she’ll know soon enough.”

The rest of the night passed in relative comfort. Hutch was surprised at the wonderful time he and Vanessa were having together. They got in some dancing and he was pleased to hold her close. He was starting to think that maybe telling her about the police academy wouldn’t be as bad as he expected.

Starsky had most of Hutch’s attention. He knew the man was in the process of seducing Elizabeth and seeing it first hand was a unique experience. He was attentive and as much of the gentleman as Starsky was being, he could see the little ways in which he was getting to her.

The way Starsky would put his hand in the small of her back and guide her to and from the dance floor showed a level of intimacy. He’d watch Starsky lean in close to her and whisper jokes into her ear. By the end of the evening Elizabeth was under Starsky’s spell. They were arm in arm, exchanging caresses and kisses.

Hutch thought her lucky as he watched them leave together at the end of the night. When he and Vanessa arrived home, they both went to bed and while Hutch undressed his wife came in close and helped him finish. She sat him on the bed then stood and was slow and sexy in how she removed her clothing.

Their lovemaking always varied. At times it was slow and precise. Other times it was frenzied and sweaty. It always depended on Vanessa’s mood. Tonight it was the care. Hutch had no problem with her setting the pace and as he lay on his back, he watched as she did her seductive dance with his body. She always knew what to do to get the most out of him.

After a few minutes, Hutch knew she was ready and he put her on her back. After the preliminaries were finished she was making the right whimpers. He slid into her and proceeded to fuck her. At one time he could call it ‘making love’, but given how tempestuous their relationship was at times he could only call it fucking. This woman underneath him would get what he would give any other woman. He would give her what was expected.

~*~

By mid-morning, Vanessa pulled herself out of bed. She grabbed her robe and slipped it on as she went to the bathroom. When she finished, she went to the kitchen and started some coffee. After the pot finished, she poured a cup and moved to sit at the table.

Hutch’s blazer set on back of the chair she pulled out and as she sat her elbow hit on an envelope in the inside pocket. Vanessa got it out and she looked curiously at the emblem on the front. After opening the letter, he eyes widened with every sentence she read.