Another Christmas, Original Story, Yaoi, incomplete
Title: Another Christmas
Author: Crypticorchid
Warnings: Yaoi, might be 18+ later (not sure yet) Grammar is unchecked, but spelling should be ok, sorry.
This is a new story that I started around Christmas. I think I"m going for a cutsie story here. Sorry it's not done yet but I hope you like it.
Another Christmas was coming and Richard sighed as he crossed the busy stores that lined his street. He wouldn't have noticed the holiday was coming if it weren't for the abundance of decorations or the insistent ringing of the Salvation Army bell that was in front of the coffee shop he frequented before work. If Richard had it his way the Christmas holiday wouldn't exist. It wasn't that he was a grinch or anything. He used to enjoy the holiday but things happen and people change.
The walk to his favorite coffee shop wasn't far from his house. He lived in a convenient neighborhood a few blocks away. Richard always walked to the coffee shop and then onto work. Though his routine was the same in that manner he never ordered the same drink. The girls that worked in the shop thought this was funny and a bit annoying. Annoying because they couldn't just have it ready for him when they knew he was going to show up but funny because Richard like drinks that other guys thought were girly. A Vanilla mochachino or some other sweetly flavored drink was usually his choice. He got a few laughs from his co-workers as well. The men he worked with thought black coffee was the best choice. Richard, however, let all the jokes slide because he knew that it was boring to go with the same thing everyday.
Today was just like any other day, Richard walked the cold path to the coffee shop taking care not to slip on the snow covered side walk. He passed the brightly colored shops that were lit up with displays to invite people in to buy stuff for Christmas. Richards plan was to ignore the holiday. It had worked so far. He didn't hold Christmas parties at his office or even give presents to his co-workers. Most people noticed his mood and decided it was best to leave him alone. The ones that knew just didn't bring anything up.
As Richard neared the little coffee shop he heard the ringing that signaled the begging of money to help the less fortunate. Most of the time Richard threw in the some change but today he had none to give on his way out. Even though the guy ringing the bell had a big red scarf and a ski hat on he still looked cold. Richard was glad that he didn't have to stand like that guy for any length of time. Richard walked into the coffee shop and warmth greeted him as well as the smell of freshly brewed coffee. It was an addiction to him, maybe that's why he was here everyday. He had to get his coffee high in the morning to keep going. Richard waited in the small line of 2 people to wait for his turn. The girl behind the counter was cute. She was short only five feet two inches with chocolate brown hair and green eyes. Her face was small and she always had a smile on her face that made the customers feel welcome. Richard always thought that if he hadn't been gay he might have asked her to go on a date. But alas he is, so though she was cute there was no hope for love there.
When it was Richards turn, he greeted her, "Hello, Sam. How are you doing this morning?"
Her smile lit up when she saw me, "Right on time as usual Richard. Do you wanna try our new drink today?"
Richard couldn't help but ask, "What is it?"
"It's a Peppermint Mocha Twist. Perfect compliment for the holiday season," She replied happily.
She didn't know his aversion to the dreaded holiday so he couldn't be mad at her for mentioning it. He thought for a little while whether or not to actually try the drink, but what the hell he wouldn't get to try it later after the dreaded holiday so I might as well get it. Sam noticed his delay and cocked her head but he pleased her when he said, "Sure that sounds great."
She smiled, placed his order, and took his money. As he took a step to the side he noticed the ringing had stopped. The man that had been standing outside was standing behind him and jumped up and down in place. "S-S-S-SSSam," He pleaded in a muffled voice, "P-P-PPPlease give me something warm to drink? I'm freezing." I was hard to tell what his voice would have sounded like normally but it was comical seeing him jump up and down stuttering.
From behind the counter Sam frowned,"You know I can't do that, unless you pay, L." She said sternly.
"P-P-Please???" He begged.
Sam started to shake her head but Richard interrupted her. "Give me another of the same thing I ordered Sam." She looked at him funny like she couldn't believe he had ordered something else. It was odd for him to do but he did feel bad for the guy out there freezing his ummmm...you know whats...off. She placed the order and he handed her the money. It was only a minute or two before the two drinks were done. Richard handed one to the guy and he smiled appreciatively. Taking a sip from his own drink he noticed for the first time that the guy had the same forest green eyes as Sam. He only noticed it for a second because the guy closed his eyes appreciating the warmth as he sipped his drink. "Enjoy the drink," Richard said and moved to the door before he was out of the shop.
The guy said, "Thank you so much. You have no idea how much this helps me get through the rest of my day." He shuffled to the door and said, "You'll have to let me repay you when I get paid, ok?" His eyes lit up as he said this but that was really the only thing Richard could see besides the small red nose frozen from the cold. He was a little taller then Sam but only by three inches or so. His hair was covered with a red and white beanie and a huge scarf not only covered his neck but his mouth as well.
"Don't worry about it," Richard replied before turning out the door and continuing his walk to work. He though he heard someone shout, Merry Christmas, from behind him but he chose to ignore it and walked on.
It was only another block before he got to the office building he worked at. One of the reasons he lived so close to where he worked was because he owned his own Architecture firm. It was called, All Done Designs. He thought the name up during college. He had enjoyed saying the words, "all done," when completing his assignments it stuck. Other Architects thought him strange for using such a childish name. Richard didn't mind, he had a good reputation and a good amount steady work.
As he arrived at the office no one was there yet. He opened the door and switched his business sign to open. He didn't normally get customers this early in the morning unless there was a special appointment made. As far as he knew there would be none until the New Year. Richard looked over his small office. His wasn't a very big firm but it was fulfilling to have accomplished what he had. The small reception desk was empty for the time being. Silvia would be here shortly filing papers, taking calls and arguing with city inspectors office. The rest of the office was small. A leather seat on one corner for customers to sit while they wait and three doors. Two were offices, one Richards the other a general work station with two computers, a plotter, a coffee machine and refrigerator and the other was a supply closet holding extra paper, ink and other various tools of his trade.
For now Richard went to his office and started work on his latest project. It was a new elementary school that would be build on the other side of town. Recently there had been a big boom in business here, so the housing market had reflected that boom. The city was planning a few new schools and public buildings. Most of which Richard had been lucky enough to be called upon to help with. The schools blue prints were almost ready to be submitted to the City for approval and Richard sat at his computer putting the finishing touches on the project with the autoCAD program he loved so much.
When Richard wasn't creating blue prints he liked to challenge himself by creating other things using his favorite program. Though he couldn't draw people and other objects on paper with a pencil, he had mastered the art on his computer. He completed a drawing of his secretary just the other day. It was funny that he could do that but wouldn't show it to anyone. He laughed at himself as he thought of his current work partner. Jason was a good guy but a little absent minded at times. He was the artist of group of three that worked here. Just a few descriptions to Jason and he would complete a full watercolor redering of it within a day.
Richard smiled to himself, as he clicked away at his mouse. He heard the door open, heard a women's voice say, "Good Morning Richard."
"Morning Silvia," he said still working on his drawing.
It was their usual routine, no unnecessary chatter between them. It would change when Jason showed up, which would be in a few minutes. Silvia's voice rang through the office again, "Richard don't forget you have a meeting with a client in two hours."
Richard glanced at the clock and sighed. He would have the drawing he was working on completed by then. It was the last final touches to the pages that took the longest and Richard tried his hardest to make sure he got everything before submitting them to the city office. He continued working, only slightly hearing Jason come in all excited. Telling Silvia how he had fallen outside the office when he was walking in. He heard Silvia go outside for a bit and come back in.
Richard was so lost in his CAD world that he didn't even notice when his two hours had passed. Silvia made him jump as she said, "Your eleven o'clock appointment is here." Richard saved his work and called for her to send the client in.
The man that walked in was tall and very handsome with long black hair and deep blue eyes. The man was well build and looked as if he could be a super model. For Richard, being gay and very single at the moment, this would normally be a good thing but the look on Richards face said other wise. Richard was horrified to see the man standing before him.
The client's face lit up when he saw Richard's reaction, "I'm so glad you are happy to see me Richard. It's been so long," said a deep husky voice.
Richard shook his head clear and composed himself as best he could, "I didn't expect to see you Albert. Last I heard you moved out of state?"
Albert smiled, his row of straight teeth flashed brightly as he did. "Yes I moved back a few months ago. It's been what four years now, since we've seen each other. Perhaps we can get a drink and make up for lost time." There was a subtle flirtatious hint to his tone that made Richard groan slightly to himself.
"I don't think that will be possible Albert. I am a busy man after all." Richard tried to keep the conversation light thought it was extremely hard to do so. "So you are working for the school district now, huh? What did they want to talk about today?"
"Always straight to business with you, isn't it? You need to have a little fun," Albert said in a mocking tone as he strode forward and sat in front of Richards small working desk.
Richard wanted to roll his eyes but his contract with the school district was a big one and he couldn't afford to lose it now because he had a personal grudge against the current representative.
"There were a few changes the district wanted to make to the new elementary school. We hope they won't be to big a problem for you to rearrange. The deadline is drawing near and though we regret the late changes we hope that you can still make them." Albert handed Richard a paper with the new changes.
Richard took the paper and looked it over. Most of them were simple enough some extra planters around the buildings and a few more water fountains. Richard looked at Albert as he read the last one, he just smiled. The last one on the list was was harder and would require Richard to work an extra day on the plan. He signed mentally. It wasn't like he did anything on Christmas anyways but he was hoping for an excuse for a day off.
"This shouldn't be a problem at all," Richard said with a smile.
Albert's smiled faltered a little but it was only momentarily. He was hoping that Richard would object to such a big change as rearranging the main office of the school. "Really?," Albert started, "We don't want you to miss the deadline or anything, if you need extra time just let us know."
"Nope, shouldn't be a problem at all. Was there anything else you needed?" Richard asked with a smile.
"Nope, I think that about sums it up," Albert said getting to his feet. Richard rose with him and walked him to the door. Albert stopped before he passed through the door way. "It was a pleasure seeing you again Richard, I do hope we can get together again some time."
"Perhaps if my schedule permits," Richard Replied, but in his mind he was saying (Not even if you were that last gay man alive would I want to meet with you again.)
Albert smiled and continued on his way out. After he was through the main office door Richard let out a huge groan. Silvia and Jason both looked at him funny. It was normal for him to be in a bad mood this time of year but to let out a groan that big was unusual for him. Richard looked at their faces and sighed. He walked into his office again and sighed as he picked up the paper that was left with him by Albert. He walked to the other office and made a photo copy of it. Jason was at his desk in that office and he handed the copy to him. "Could you please make all these changes on elementary school files,oh, except for the last one."
Jason took the paper and inspected it for a short moment. He looked at the aesthetic changes that were made and nodded they weren't a problem but when his eyes fell on the last item he yelled, "HOLY SHIT, that building was already done. What are they thinking changing it like a week before the deadline."
Richard cringed at Jason's choice of words but he felt the same way. "It won't be a problem you can fix the small things and I'll work on the last one. It will be done before the deadline."
Jason's eyes were wide, "But in order to get this done, you would have to work through Christmas." Jason's shocked voice bothered Richard, but he didn't see a problem with that at all.
"It will be done on time even if I do have to work through Christmas." He said not sounding the least bit remorseful.
"I can help you a few extra hours in the next few days and we can get it done before Christmas," Jason suggested. He didn't like hearing his boss was going to spend the holiday doing work.
"Don't worry about it Jason, it's really no big deal." Richard said as he walked back to his office. The firm went on with it's business for the rest of the day. The sky outside began to darken as Richard finished up the drawing he was working on. The day was a blur of fast paced drawing for him as he tried not to think of who had come to visit him today. "Albert of all people," Richard sighed to himself as he got up to leave the office.
Silvia and Jason were also getting ready to leave. "Goodnight you two," Richard said as they hurried out into the cold weather. It was starting to get colder and it seemed like a new storm was going to throw more snow down soon. Richard didn't really dislike the snow it was rather enjoyable as long as you didn't have to travel far. Richard locked the store and started on his short walk home. It wasn't far before he would walk past the coffee shop again. The guy with the begging bucket was taking down his little stand and getting ready to leave for the night. He looked up and the forest green eyes lit up as they recognized Richard.
"Hey, Thanks for the drink earlier it was good and really helped me keep warm," L smiled warmly at Richard, "You should let me take you to dinner to repay you," He said very enthusiastically.
Richard liked the way the green eyes twinkled in the twilight, but shook his head at the boy. "I'm sorry but I need to head home now, and don't worry about repaying me. It's the season for giving after all." Richard gagged inwardly, did he really just use that phrase and what happened to hating the damn season he just praised.
Richard saw the boys's shoulder droop slightly, but said, "I would really, really like to repay you, please..."
Richard was about to object again when a deep husky voice came from the direction of the coffee shop door, "Hello again, Richard." Richard froze in place, Why?, was the only coherent though Richard to think of in that instant. It was one thing to meet him as a client but another to meet him on the street.
Then Richard snapped, he didn't know if it was the stress that the holiday season held for him in the last few years or just the anger that he kept bottled up at the handsome man that stood before him, but his mind let lose. "DON'T YOU EVER COME NEAR ME AGAIN!" Richard yelled at top volume. Albert seemed stunned, and L was shocked stiff. Even, Sam inside let out a shocked gasp. "YOU RUINED EVERYTHING FOR ME DON'T YOU REALIZE THAT AND NOW YOU JUST COME BACK. I WON'T EVER WANT YOU BACK IN MY LIFE, SO JUST STAY THE F**K AWAY!"
Richard ran then, the forest eyed boy and the blue eyed demon of his past, were left staring at his running form. The time it normally took to get home was cut in half. No leasurely walking pace today. Richard was panting when he got to his door, not from phyical exertion but from the mental outburst he had just had. When Richard got into his house, he flooped on the couch. What was he going to do now? He made an ass out of himself at his favorite coffee shop. Richard tried not to think about it but just laying there was making it hard. Though he would normally make himself something to eat and watch TV for awhile, he didn't feel that would calm his nerves. So he got out the flash drive he always had with him walked to his computer. Richard worked through the night on the changes that needed to be made to his current project. Though the changes were requested by that, B*****D, that he hated so much, Richard lost himself in the world of CAD. It was four in the morning when he finished the drawing. Richard was exhausted slumped over his keyboard before falling asleep.
Richard was woken by his alarm that was always set. It wasn't often that he fell asleep at his computer desk but it happened enough that he invested in an alarm clock that was always set to go off at the same time everyday.
Richard groan as he stood up. He stretched his aching muscles and yawned. He had only gotten two hours of sleep. Today wasn't going to be pleasant but at least he completed his drawings for the school project. That in itself pleased Richard enough to get him in the shower and prepare for the day.
After eating some toast, Richard set out to get coffee from his favorite shop. When he neared the coffee shop he noticed the salvation army bowl wasn't out front nor was the guy from yesterday. Richard shrugged and walked into the shop, he felt like an ass. There was no one in line and when Sam heard him walk in she smiled. Well she didn't look upset he mused. "Well now if it isn't Mr. Don't-come-near-me-ever-again."
Richard grimaced as she said that. "I'm really very sorry about that, I don't know what came over me."
Sam smiled and said, "No problem we all have our times of weakness but you should have seen the shocked face of that man. He looked like a ghost after you left. L's face was just as hilarious, I don't think he knew what to think of your outburst. If the man hadn't left before L came too I think he might have beaten the man to a pulp."
Her tone was one of amusement like she found the whole scene comical. Richard wasn't sure what to think. He was quite certain that he wouldn't be able to show his face around here again. Richard ordered his coffee and waited for it to be done. He was in desperate need of some caffine. When Sam handed him his coffee she said, "L was really happy you ordered that coffee for him yesterday, He gets paid today and really wants to repay you."
Richard took the coffee and sipped it. Letting the caffeine kick start his brain. "Tell, L, that it really isn't necessary." Richard waved goodbye as he walked to his office.
No one was there as usual when he unlocked the door, Which was fine with him. He wasn't too happy to be in the office in the first place. After setting the new plans to print, Richard started working on a new project. Everyone arrived at their usual times but that was a fog to Richard as he forced his mind to block out anything that wasn't work related.
It was a few hours later when a knock on his door made him jump. His secretary Silvia grinned. Shaking his head to clear the fog from his mind. "Hey Silvia, What did you need?"
"There is a young man here to see you Richard."
"I didn't think I had any meetings today." He replied confused.
"Well, he didn't have an appointment but I couldn't refuse his request."
Richard was still confused, perhaps the cloud in his mind still didn't go away, "Alright, let him in." Richard saved the file he was working on and looked up when he heard someone say, "Hi."
In front of him was the boy from yesterday. He wore blue jean and a turtle neck green sweater. He was short only about 5'5", with short brown hair that was tousled a bit. But his eyes were what caught Richards attention. They were a familiar green color, damn the fog he though, he couldn't remember where he's seen them before. Shaking his head again he said, "What can I do for you?"
"Ummm...Sam said you didn't want me to pay you back for the coffee but I really wanted toooo annnnd ummm....."
Then it clicked, this kid was "L", only then did he notice the bag in the kids hand. Richard wanted to hang his head but decided against it. "You know you didn't have to pay me back for the coffee. You just looked in need of warmth."
"Ummm...I know, but I wanted to do this for you. Uhh...Richard, right. I asked my sister where you worked and she told me. Ummm...here." The kid handed Richard the brown bag.
Richard took the bag hesitantly. "Thanks. I guess."
"You're welcome," the kid said with a happy smile on his face.
Richard was curious to see what was in the bag and opened it. Inside was a turkey sandwich from the deli two doors down. Richard looked up confused as to why the kid would know what his favorite sandwich was. The kid blushed under the scrutinizing look. "Ummm...I asked your secretary what you liked to eat. I hope you don't mind."
Richard just sighed the kid was cute he had to admit that. No one has gone through this much trouble for him in a long time, so he said, "Hey kid, why don't you sit down and share this with me."
The kid looked ecstatic by the proposal and sat in the chair that was positioned across the desk. "Hold on," Richard said as he got up from his chair made his way to the other office. On his way Silvia winked at him and he just rolled his eyes. Once in the office he grabbed some paper towels and two drinks from the small fridge. Richard went back to his office to see "L" looking around curiously. "So I have tea or coke, which one do you want?"
"Ummm...I'll take the coke if you don't mind," he said blushing. Richard placed the coke in front of the kid. Then sat down and placed the sandwich between them. He took one half and the kid took the other. He didn't know what to say to the kid, he never really met him before so it was awkward. The kid didn't talk either as he bit into the sandwich.
After finishing his first bite Richard couldn't take the silence, "So...Sam called you "L," why's that?"
This got Richard a giggle. "Oh...Sam and I are twins." Richards grew wide from this news and now he realized why his eyes looked so familiar. "Our parents thought it would be great to name us similarly. Which gets kinda confusing. I mean...her name is Samantha and mine is Samuel. So naturally everyone want to call us Sam for short but we both answer so she's Sam and I'm "L" for short.
Richard was still kinda shocked form the first statement but managed to get out. "So do I call you Samuel, Sam or L?"
"Samuel or L, I don't answer to Sam because that is Sam's name," he giggled again. He thought their names were amusing. Richard kinda got the joke but he imagined it would be hard having a name so similar to ones sister.
"Ok, Samuel it is then. So what do you do?" Richard asked.
Sam swallowed his food and said, "I work part time at the graphic design place a few blocks away. I only get paid when jobs get done so money can be irregular. I was helping out a friend yesterday and was stuck in the cold without any cash, so I am really really grateful that you helped me out yesterday."
Richard smiled, "Don't worry about it kid, like I said you looked like you needed some warmth." Richard kinda felt warmth enter his cheeks as he said it. This confused him quite a bit.
"Ya I know. I hope you liked you're lunch."
Richard looked down to see that both sides of the sandwich were eaten. Though the kid had kinda barged in he kinda enjoyed eating lunch with him. He talked a lot but his voice was cute. The small stammers here and there were kinda addicting. He growled at himself in his head. That was never a good sign. Getting addicted to stuff is bad and he didn't need any more complications in his life. "I love the Turkey sandwiches from Chewy's Bakery. Thanks for Lunch."
The boy grinned a beautiful smile, "Well I hate to eat and run but I need to go. I hope I see you around." The kid got up and went to the door but stopped before he got through it. "Ummmm...," The kid walked back to the desk placed a card on the table and walked out of Richards office briskly.
Richard wasn't sure about the kids behavior. He looked at the card on his desk and stared at it. It was a minute or two before he leaned over to pick it up. It was a small business card but it didn't have anything written on it. Richard stared at the blank card and that is how his secretary Silvia found him. She cleared her throat to get Richards attention. His head slowly turned toward her. "Huh?" was the only thing he managed.
"So who was that kid, Hmmmmm?, He's a little young for you don't you think." She giggled.
Richard shook his head. "It's not like that Silvia. He wanted to buy me lunch for buying him a coffee yesterday. The poor kid was standing in the cold with one of those salvation army coffers in front of my favorite coffee shop. He looked cold so I bought him a coffee."
"Wow, that was AWWWWWfully nice of you Richard." she giggled again, "Then why did he leave you his phone number."
Richard was again confused, that was happening a lot lately he would need to do something about that. "He did NO such thing."
"You poor man, you have a young kid hitting on you and you don't even know it. Perhaps you should turn that card around," she said before walking back to her desk.
Richard turned the card over and on the back in neat cursive writing was Samuel's name, his phone number and an email address. He had to laugh at the email address it was, SamwithanL@megadesigns.com. He placed the card propped up in front of his pen holder. He couldn't help but smile. Richard cleaned up the mess from lunch then went back to working on the project. It wasn't very long before he was making great progress on the new project. His mood had been renewed and the fact that it was Christmas didn't even cross his mind.
It was coming close to closing time for him and Richard wrapped up what he was doing. He saved all his files on the flash drive he carried around. He also checked his email before he headed out of the office. Though he had a computer at home, he didn't use his email there much. Most of his email was from clients and he thought that was best left for work.
There wasn't much mail and only one possible new client that could wait until tomorrow to answer, before he clicked out of his browser his eyes fell on the small card that was sitting by his pen holder. Typing in the address for Samuel he wrote him a quick not. "Hi, Samuel. It was very nice having lunch with you today. I enjoyed it a lot. Perhaps we can do it again sometime. From, Richard."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Richard was a little disappointed when he walked path his favorite coffee shop on the way home. The green eyed boy was not standing outside the shop. He supposed the boy would be at home or perhaps out with some of his friends. Richard sighed he didn't have many friends since that incident. He was so depressed that most of his friends disappeared. Most of his other friends were "his" friends and disappeared after he left. Richard didn't want to go down that path of though.
The walk home was a peaceful one today. No walking into ghosts of his past. Which Richard was thankful for. The last two days has been awkward and mentally draining for him.
After getting home Richard made himself a quick meal, chicken and pasta and watched a few episodes of his favorite tv show, Mythbusters. The relaxing atmosphere of home wasn't enough to put him to sleep even with his lack of sleep from the night before. So he went to his computer and opened a fresh AutoCad page.
Looking at the blanks screen for only a little while he started to draw. It wasn't apparent what he was drawing until after a half an hour. Richard stopped working on the file and sat back. The unmistakable figure of a boy was in front of him. Richard sighed, what had gotten into him. He closed the file down without saving and headed for bed. Maybe tomorrow would be different.
Richard woke to his alarm like any other day and went through his normal routine. After finishing he headed for the coffee shop. Sam greeted him with a smile, "Morning Richard, What can I get you today?"
Richard ordered a Carmel mochachino with whip cream and waited for her to tell him his total but it didn't come. "Sam?" Richard said uncertain of what she was doing. Did she not get enough sleep last night?
Sam turned to him and gave him a big grin. "Your drink has already been paid for."
Richard was confused, "By who?"
Sam grinned even wider, "But I think it's suppose to be a secret." She giggled a bit at his confused expression. "Ok, it was L, he was really happy you let him buy you lunch yesterday so he bought you your coffee."
Richard mentally groaned. He really didn't want his life to get complicated again. He would have to set the boy straight later. After Richards coffee was done he told Sam to tell Samuel, thank you and left for work.
Richard opened his office like he normally did and went to his desk. It would be a little while before anyone else came so he sat to check his email. He answered the one that he left the night before. The guy wanted to add on to his home and wanted a quote on how much the plans would cost. He encouraged the potential client to have an in home meeting set up and to give his secretary a call to schedule it.
After finishing that email he looked at the next. It was from Samuel. The "SamwithanL" name still amused him. The kid was just that a kid, He didn't need the problems of an adult bringing him down. The email was simple and read, "Morning Richard! I would love it if we could od lunch again. Perhaps today? I'll be at Chevy's @ 11 if you want to join me there. Check out this link! See you later, Samuel." Richard sighed, he didn't know what he was doing when he sent that email last night. Out of childish curiosity Richard opening the link. It was to a site by Mega Designs. The objects moved playfully around the screen, bouncing around in random patterns before the message, "Hi Richard," popped up. Then a small character appeared and it someone resembled himself. The character did a few cart wheels around the screen before he jumped and the message, "Have a joyful day," appeared. The character of himself was handing from the lettering. The animation was playful and cute. It was actually quite thoughtful. Richard liked the kid in general but he didn't think he had it in his heart to accept anyone again.
Richard didn't reply to the email he closed it down and started on the next set of drawings he needed to get done. This one was an indoor play area for kids. Richard was really looking forward to this project. He had always enjoyed children and sometimes he still felt like a kid. He didn't enjoy all the things he loved when he was a kid but a good bought of cartoons could usually lift his spirits.
The time flew by and it was already 10:30. Richard wasn't sure he wanted to see the green eyed boy again but he had this crazy urge to see him again. Richard stared at the little card that was sitting on his desk. Looking away he saved the file on his computer and got up. Richard went to Siliva's desk, "I don't have any meetings today, right?"
Siliva smiled at him, "Nope your schedule is clear for the day."
Richard nodded and said, "I'm going to lunch. I'll be back in about an hour."
"Ok, Richard, you have a good lunch."
Richard went back to his office and got his coat. He found himself making the trip two doors down to Chevy's Restaurant. It was about 10:55 when he got there and he didn't see the boy. He was slightly disappointed but he pushed that feeling aside. He ordered his sandwich and ice tea before sitting down at a booth by the window. Richard didn't have to wait long before he saw the green eyed boy walking toward the eatery. The boy saw him and started walking faster, much to fast for the snow slickened sidewalk, when he got to the door of the restaurant he nearly fell grabbing the door handle to steady himself. Richard chuckled to himself the boy was amusing.
Samuel was ecstatic to see Richard there at the restaurant. He was sure that the man was going to accept his invitation. He ran over to the booth and sat down. "Hi," he said, a little too enthusiastically.
Richard smiled at the boys excitement and teased, "You were so eager to see me you almost fell, huh?"
Samuel blushed a little but didn't say anything. Richard expected the boy to joke back but was taken aback when he didn't. After regaining his composure a bit he said, "So what do you like to eat?"
"Normally I get the roast beef sandwich with everything on it and a coke."
Richard nodded and got up and to order the kids food. Samuel showed up and almost fell down again trying to stop Richard but he was already to the counter. He walked to Richard side and said, "You don't have to do that really. I can get it myself." Richard waved the boy away though and placed the order. When Richard turned back to the boy he looked kinda dejected. "You didn't have to pay for my food, you know. I'm an adult."
Richard just laughed, "Ok then, how old are you?"
"I just turned 19, Thank you very much."
Wow, Richard thought, right out of high school. "Nice animation you sent me, did you make it?"
"Oh I can make all kinds of stuff, I went to a technical high school, that taught me web deisgn and animation as well as the regular high school subjects.
Richard was impressed by the boy a little bit. "That's quite interesting. So you didn't go to college?"
"No....my highschool teachers helped me get this job and though pay is irregular sometimes it's fun and a great place to work." It was then that their food arrived they both started a eating a before continuing their conversation. Richard was half done with is sandwich when he said, "So what are you working on now?
Samuel smiled excitedly and said, "We are working on this huge project right now. The city asked us to revamp their current web page. It's really great thinking up new ways to make the site more entertaining. I added a section for kids to the project the mayor really liked that. He's helping me add some stuff ot it."
Richard was almost done with his sandwich now and was amused at how much the kid enjoyed his job. He looked at the boy and he was so excited with talking he hadn't touched much of his sandwich. "You planning on eating?" he teased.
The boy blushed again "Tell me about yourself then and I'll eat." Richard nodded and the boy bit into his sandwich. "Well," Richard started, "I'm old."
"No, you aren't"
Richard smiled, "Oh, but I am, I'm 32 already. Quite old indeed. Especially compared to you being 19. I actually own "All Done Design" and I'm the lead Architect for it."
"Wow, that's amazing. Where did you go to college?"
"I went to Azure University College of Architecture."
"Neat."
"It's not a big deal, not really a prestigious school. I've had "All Done Designs" for 3 years now. Before that I worked at an Architect firm that a friends family owned."
"Where's that firm?"
"Uh, Well, It's actually in the next city over." Richard hesitated a bit when he said that, Samuel didn't really catch it though he was quite into his food. "I had to work there for several years to get experience before I could get my license. At the time it seemed natural to stay there even after I got it but then I decided to open 'All Done Deisgn.' The freedom is really great and I have a great team working for me right now. Richard was surprised.
TBC...
Author: Crypticorchid
Warnings: Yaoi, might be 18+ later (not sure yet) Grammar is unchecked, but spelling should be ok, sorry.
This is a new story that I started around Christmas. I think I"m going for a cutsie story here. Sorry it's not done yet but I hope you like it.
Another Christmas was coming and Richard sighed as he crossed the busy stores that lined his street. He wouldn't have noticed the holiday was coming if it weren't for the abundance of decorations or the insistent ringing of the Salvation Army bell that was in front of the coffee shop he frequented before work. If Richard had it his way the Christmas holiday wouldn't exist. It wasn't that he was a grinch or anything. He used to enjoy the holiday but things happen and people change.
The walk to his favorite coffee shop wasn't far from his house. He lived in a convenient neighborhood a few blocks away. Richard always walked to the coffee shop and then onto work. Though his routine was the same in that manner he never ordered the same drink. The girls that worked in the shop thought this was funny and a bit annoying. Annoying because they couldn't just have it ready for him when they knew he was going to show up but funny because Richard like drinks that other guys thought were girly. A Vanilla mochachino or some other sweetly flavored drink was usually his choice. He got a few laughs from his co-workers as well. The men he worked with thought black coffee was the best choice. Richard, however, let all the jokes slide because he knew that it was boring to go with the same thing everyday.
Today was just like any other day, Richard walked the cold path to the coffee shop taking care not to slip on the snow covered side walk. He passed the brightly colored shops that were lit up with displays to invite people in to buy stuff for Christmas. Richards plan was to ignore the holiday. It had worked so far. He didn't hold Christmas parties at his office or even give presents to his co-workers. Most people noticed his mood and decided it was best to leave him alone. The ones that knew just didn't bring anything up.
As Richard neared the little coffee shop he heard the ringing that signaled the begging of money to help the less fortunate. Most of the time Richard threw in the some change but today he had none to give on his way out. Even though the guy ringing the bell had a big red scarf and a ski hat on he still looked cold. Richard was glad that he didn't have to stand like that guy for any length of time. Richard walked into the coffee shop and warmth greeted him as well as the smell of freshly brewed coffee. It was an addiction to him, maybe that's why he was here everyday. He had to get his coffee high in the morning to keep going. Richard waited in the small line of 2 people to wait for his turn. The girl behind the counter was cute. She was short only five feet two inches with chocolate brown hair and green eyes. Her face was small and she always had a smile on her face that made the customers feel welcome. Richard always thought that if he hadn't been gay he might have asked her to go on a date. But alas he is, so though she was cute there was no hope for love there.
When it was Richards turn, he greeted her, "Hello, Sam. How are you doing this morning?"
Her smile lit up when she saw me, "Right on time as usual Richard. Do you wanna try our new drink today?"
Richard couldn't help but ask, "What is it?"
"It's a Peppermint Mocha Twist. Perfect compliment for the holiday season," She replied happily.
She didn't know his aversion to the dreaded holiday so he couldn't be mad at her for mentioning it. He thought for a little while whether or not to actually try the drink, but what the hell he wouldn't get to try it later after the dreaded holiday so I might as well get it. Sam noticed his delay and cocked her head but he pleased her when he said, "Sure that sounds great."
She smiled, placed his order, and took his money. As he took a step to the side he noticed the ringing had stopped. The man that had been standing outside was standing behind him and jumped up and down in place. "S-S-S-SSSam," He pleaded in a muffled voice, "P-P-PPPlease give me something warm to drink? I'm freezing." I was hard to tell what his voice would have sounded like normally but it was comical seeing him jump up and down stuttering.
From behind the counter Sam frowned,"You know I can't do that, unless you pay, L." She said sternly.
"P-P-Please???" He begged.
Sam started to shake her head but Richard interrupted her. "Give me another of the same thing I ordered Sam." She looked at him funny like she couldn't believe he had ordered something else. It was odd for him to do but he did feel bad for the guy out there freezing his ummmm...you know whats...off. She placed the order and he handed her the money. It was only a minute or two before the two drinks were done. Richard handed one to the guy and he smiled appreciatively. Taking a sip from his own drink he noticed for the first time that the guy had the same forest green eyes as Sam. He only noticed it for a second because the guy closed his eyes appreciating the warmth as he sipped his drink. "Enjoy the drink," Richard said and moved to the door before he was out of the shop.
The guy said, "Thank you so much. You have no idea how much this helps me get through the rest of my day." He shuffled to the door and said, "You'll have to let me repay you when I get paid, ok?" His eyes lit up as he said this but that was really the only thing Richard could see besides the small red nose frozen from the cold. He was a little taller then Sam but only by three inches or so. His hair was covered with a red and white beanie and a huge scarf not only covered his neck but his mouth as well.
"Don't worry about it," Richard replied before turning out the door and continuing his walk to work. He though he heard someone shout, Merry Christmas, from behind him but he chose to ignore it and walked on.
It was only another block before he got to the office building he worked at. One of the reasons he lived so close to where he worked was because he owned his own Architecture firm. It was called, All Done Designs. He thought the name up during college. He had enjoyed saying the words, "all done," when completing his assignments it stuck. Other Architects thought him strange for using such a childish name. Richard didn't mind, he had a good reputation and a good amount steady work.
As he arrived at the office no one was there yet. He opened the door and switched his business sign to open. He didn't normally get customers this early in the morning unless there was a special appointment made. As far as he knew there would be none until the New Year. Richard looked over his small office. His wasn't a very big firm but it was fulfilling to have accomplished what he had. The small reception desk was empty for the time being. Silvia would be here shortly filing papers, taking calls and arguing with city inspectors office. The rest of the office was small. A leather seat on one corner for customers to sit while they wait and three doors. Two were offices, one Richards the other a general work station with two computers, a plotter, a coffee machine and refrigerator and the other was a supply closet holding extra paper, ink and other various tools of his trade.
For now Richard went to his office and started work on his latest project. It was a new elementary school that would be build on the other side of town. Recently there had been a big boom in business here, so the housing market had reflected that boom. The city was planning a few new schools and public buildings. Most of which Richard had been lucky enough to be called upon to help with. The schools blue prints were almost ready to be submitted to the City for approval and Richard sat at his computer putting the finishing touches on the project with the autoCAD program he loved so much.
When Richard wasn't creating blue prints he liked to challenge himself by creating other things using his favorite program. Though he couldn't draw people and other objects on paper with a pencil, he had mastered the art on his computer. He completed a drawing of his secretary just the other day. It was funny that he could do that but wouldn't show it to anyone. He laughed at himself as he thought of his current work partner. Jason was a good guy but a little absent minded at times. He was the artist of group of three that worked here. Just a few descriptions to Jason and he would complete a full watercolor redering of it within a day.
Richard smiled to himself, as he clicked away at his mouse. He heard the door open, heard a women's voice say, "Good Morning Richard."
"Morning Silvia," he said still working on his drawing.
It was their usual routine, no unnecessary chatter between them. It would change when Jason showed up, which would be in a few minutes. Silvia's voice rang through the office again, "Richard don't forget you have a meeting with a client in two hours."
Richard glanced at the clock and sighed. He would have the drawing he was working on completed by then. It was the last final touches to the pages that took the longest and Richard tried his hardest to make sure he got everything before submitting them to the city office. He continued working, only slightly hearing Jason come in all excited. Telling Silvia how he had fallen outside the office when he was walking in. He heard Silvia go outside for a bit and come back in.
Richard was so lost in his CAD world that he didn't even notice when his two hours had passed. Silvia made him jump as she said, "Your eleven o'clock appointment is here." Richard saved his work and called for her to send the client in.
The man that walked in was tall and very handsome with long black hair and deep blue eyes. The man was well build and looked as if he could be a super model. For Richard, being gay and very single at the moment, this would normally be a good thing but the look on Richards face said other wise. Richard was horrified to see the man standing before him.
The client's face lit up when he saw Richard's reaction, "I'm so glad you are happy to see me Richard. It's been so long," said a deep husky voice.
Richard shook his head clear and composed himself as best he could, "I didn't expect to see you Albert. Last I heard you moved out of state?"
Albert smiled, his row of straight teeth flashed brightly as he did. "Yes I moved back a few months ago. It's been what four years now, since we've seen each other. Perhaps we can get a drink and make up for lost time." There was a subtle flirtatious hint to his tone that made Richard groan slightly to himself.
"I don't think that will be possible Albert. I am a busy man after all." Richard tried to keep the conversation light thought it was extremely hard to do so. "So you are working for the school district now, huh? What did they want to talk about today?"
"Always straight to business with you, isn't it? You need to have a little fun," Albert said in a mocking tone as he strode forward and sat in front of Richards small working desk.
Richard wanted to roll his eyes but his contract with the school district was a big one and he couldn't afford to lose it now because he had a personal grudge against the current representative.
"There were a few changes the district wanted to make to the new elementary school. We hope they won't be to big a problem for you to rearrange. The deadline is drawing near and though we regret the late changes we hope that you can still make them." Albert handed Richard a paper with the new changes.
Richard took the paper and looked it over. Most of them were simple enough some extra planters around the buildings and a few more water fountains. Richard looked at Albert as he read the last one, he just smiled. The last one on the list was was harder and would require Richard to work an extra day on the plan. He signed mentally. It wasn't like he did anything on Christmas anyways but he was hoping for an excuse for a day off.
"This shouldn't be a problem at all," Richard said with a smile.
Albert's smiled faltered a little but it was only momentarily. He was hoping that Richard would object to such a big change as rearranging the main office of the school. "Really?," Albert started, "We don't want you to miss the deadline or anything, if you need extra time just let us know."
"Nope, shouldn't be a problem at all. Was there anything else you needed?" Richard asked with a smile.
"Nope, I think that about sums it up," Albert said getting to his feet. Richard rose with him and walked him to the door. Albert stopped before he passed through the door way. "It was a pleasure seeing you again Richard, I do hope we can get together again some time."
"Perhaps if my schedule permits," Richard Replied, but in his mind he was saying (Not even if you were that last gay man alive would I want to meet with you again.)
Albert smiled and continued on his way out. After he was through the main office door Richard let out a huge groan. Silvia and Jason both looked at him funny. It was normal for him to be in a bad mood this time of year but to let out a groan that big was unusual for him. Richard looked at their faces and sighed. He walked into his office again and sighed as he picked up the paper that was left with him by Albert. He walked to the other office and made a photo copy of it. Jason was at his desk in that office and he handed the copy to him. "Could you please make all these changes on elementary school files,oh, except for the last one."
Jason took the paper and inspected it for a short moment. He looked at the aesthetic changes that were made and nodded they weren't a problem but when his eyes fell on the last item he yelled, "HOLY SHIT, that building was already done. What are they thinking changing it like a week before the deadline."
Richard cringed at Jason's choice of words but he felt the same way. "It won't be a problem you can fix the small things and I'll work on the last one. It will be done before the deadline."
Jason's eyes were wide, "But in order to get this done, you would have to work through Christmas." Jason's shocked voice bothered Richard, but he didn't see a problem with that at all.
"It will be done on time even if I do have to work through Christmas." He said not sounding the least bit remorseful.
"I can help you a few extra hours in the next few days and we can get it done before Christmas," Jason suggested. He didn't like hearing his boss was going to spend the holiday doing work.
"Don't worry about it Jason, it's really no big deal." Richard said as he walked back to his office. The firm went on with it's business for the rest of the day. The sky outside began to darken as Richard finished up the drawing he was working on. The day was a blur of fast paced drawing for him as he tried not to think of who had come to visit him today. "Albert of all people," Richard sighed to himself as he got up to leave the office.
Silvia and Jason were also getting ready to leave. "Goodnight you two," Richard said as they hurried out into the cold weather. It was starting to get colder and it seemed like a new storm was going to throw more snow down soon. Richard didn't really dislike the snow it was rather enjoyable as long as you didn't have to travel far. Richard locked the store and started on his short walk home. It wasn't far before he would walk past the coffee shop again. The guy with the begging bucket was taking down his little stand and getting ready to leave for the night. He looked up and the forest green eyes lit up as they recognized Richard.
"Hey, Thanks for the drink earlier it was good and really helped me keep warm," L smiled warmly at Richard, "You should let me take you to dinner to repay you," He said very enthusiastically.
Richard liked the way the green eyes twinkled in the twilight, but shook his head at the boy. "I'm sorry but I need to head home now, and don't worry about repaying me. It's the season for giving after all." Richard gagged inwardly, did he really just use that phrase and what happened to hating the damn season he just praised.
Richard saw the boys's shoulder droop slightly, but said, "I would really, really like to repay you, please..."
Richard was about to object again when a deep husky voice came from the direction of the coffee shop door, "Hello again, Richard." Richard froze in place, Why?, was the only coherent though Richard to think of in that instant. It was one thing to meet him as a client but another to meet him on the street.
Then Richard snapped, he didn't know if it was the stress that the holiday season held for him in the last few years or just the anger that he kept bottled up at the handsome man that stood before him, but his mind let lose. "DON'T YOU EVER COME NEAR ME AGAIN!" Richard yelled at top volume. Albert seemed stunned, and L was shocked stiff. Even, Sam inside let out a shocked gasp. "YOU RUINED EVERYTHING FOR ME DON'T YOU REALIZE THAT AND NOW YOU JUST COME BACK. I WON'T EVER WANT YOU BACK IN MY LIFE, SO JUST STAY THE F**K AWAY!"
Richard ran then, the forest eyed boy and the blue eyed demon of his past, were left staring at his running form. The time it normally took to get home was cut in half. No leasurely walking pace today. Richard was panting when he got to his door, not from phyical exertion but from the mental outburst he had just had. When Richard got into his house, he flooped on the couch. What was he going to do now? He made an ass out of himself at his favorite coffee shop. Richard tried not to think about it but just laying there was making it hard. Though he would normally make himself something to eat and watch TV for awhile, he didn't feel that would calm his nerves. So he got out the flash drive he always had with him walked to his computer. Richard worked through the night on the changes that needed to be made to his current project. Though the changes were requested by that, B*****D, that he hated so much, Richard lost himself in the world of CAD. It was four in the morning when he finished the drawing. Richard was exhausted slumped over his keyboard before falling asleep.
Richard was woken by his alarm that was always set. It wasn't often that he fell asleep at his computer desk but it happened enough that he invested in an alarm clock that was always set to go off at the same time everyday.
Richard groan as he stood up. He stretched his aching muscles and yawned. He had only gotten two hours of sleep. Today wasn't going to be pleasant but at least he completed his drawings for the school project. That in itself pleased Richard enough to get him in the shower and prepare for the day.
After eating some toast, Richard set out to get coffee from his favorite shop. When he neared the coffee shop he noticed the salvation army bowl wasn't out front nor was the guy from yesterday. Richard shrugged and walked into the shop, he felt like an ass. There was no one in line and when Sam heard him walk in she smiled. Well she didn't look upset he mused. "Well now if it isn't Mr. Don't-come-near-me-ever-again."
Richard grimaced as she said that. "I'm really very sorry about that, I don't know what came over me."
Sam smiled and said, "No problem we all have our times of weakness but you should have seen the shocked face of that man. He looked like a ghost after you left. L's face was just as hilarious, I don't think he knew what to think of your outburst. If the man hadn't left before L came too I think he might have beaten the man to a pulp."
Her tone was one of amusement like she found the whole scene comical. Richard wasn't sure what to think. He was quite certain that he wouldn't be able to show his face around here again. Richard ordered his coffee and waited for it to be done. He was in desperate need of some caffine. When Sam handed him his coffee she said, "L was really happy you ordered that coffee for him yesterday, He gets paid today and really wants to repay you."
Richard took the coffee and sipped it. Letting the caffeine kick start his brain. "Tell, L, that it really isn't necessary." Richard waved goodbye as he walked to his office.
No one was there as usual when he unlocked the door, Which was fine with him. He wasn't too happy to be in the office in the first place. After setting the new plans to print, Richard started working on a new project. Everyone arrived at their usual times but that was a fog to Richard as he forced his mind to block out anything that wasn't work related.
It was a few hours later when a knock on his door made him jump. His secretary Silvia grinned. Shaking his head to clear the fog from his mind. "Hey Silvia, What did you need?"
"There is a young man here to see you Richard."
"I didn't think I had any meetings today." He replied confused.
"Well, he didn't have an appointment but I couldn't refuse his request."
Richard was still confused, perhaps the cloud in his mind still didn't go away, "Alright, let him in." Richard saved the file he was working on and looked up when he heard someone say, "Hi."
In front of him was the boy from yesterday. He wore blue jean and a turtle neck green sweater. He was short only about 5'5", with short brown hair that was tousled a bit. But his eyes were what caught Richards attention. They were a familiar green color, damn the fog he though, he couldn't remember where he's seen them before. Shaking his head again he said, "What can I do for you?"
"Ummm...Sam said you didn't want me to pay you back for the coffee but I really wanted toooo annnnd ummm....."
Then it clicked, this kid was "L", only then did he notice the bag in the kids hand. Richard wanted to hang his head but decided against it. "You know you didn't have to pay me back for the coffee. You just looked in need of warmth."
"Ummm...I know, but I wanted to do this for you. Uhh...Richard, right. I asked my sister where you worked and she told me. Ummm...here." The kid handed Richard the brown bag.
Richard took the bag hesitantly. "Thanks. I guess."
"You're welcome," the kid said with a happy smile on his face.
Richard was curious to see what was in the bag and opened it. Inside was a turkey sandwich from the deli two doors down. Richard looked up confused as to why the kid would know what his favorite sandwich was. The kid blushed under the scrutinizing look. "Ummm...I asked your secretary what you liked to eat. I hope you don't mind."
Richard just sighed the kid was cute he had to admit that. No one has gone through this much trouble for him in a long time, so he said, "Hey kid, why don't you sit down and share this with me."
The kid looked ecstatic by the proposal and sat in the chair that was positioned across the desk. "Hold on," Richard said as he got up from his chair made his way to the other office. On his way Silvia winked at him and he just rolled his eyes. Once in the office he grabbed some paper towels and two drinks from the small fridge. Richard went back to his office to see "L" looking around curiously. "So I have tea or coke, which one do you want?"
"Ummm...I'll take the coke if you don't mind," he said blushing. Richard placed the coke in front of the kid. Then sat down and placed the sandwich between them. He took one half and the kid took the other. He didn't know what to say to the kid, he never really met him before so it was awkward. The kid didn't talk either as he bit into the sandwich.
After finishing his first bite Richard couldn't take the silence, "So...Sam called you "L," why's that?"
This got Richard a giggle. "Oh...Sam and I are twins." Richards grew wide from this news and now he realized why his eyes looked so familiar. "Our parents thought it would be great to name us similarly. Which gets kinda confusing. I mean...her name is Samantha and mine is Samuel. So naturally everyone want to call us Sam for short but we both answer so she's Sam and I'm "L" for short.
Richard was still kinda shocked form the first statement but managed to get out. "So do I call you Samuel, Sam or L?"
"Samuel or L, I don't answer to Sam because that is Sam's name," he giggled again. He thought their names were amusing. Richard kinda got the joke but he imagined it would be hard having a name so similar to ones sister.
"Ok, Samuel it is then. So what do you do?" Richard asked.
Sam swallowed his food and said, "I work part time at the graphic design place a few blocks away. I only get paid when jobs get done so money can be irregular. I was helping out a friend yesterday and was stuck in the cold without any cash, so I am really really grateful that you helped me out yesterday."
Richard smiled, "Don't worry about it kid, like I said you looked like you needed some warmth." Richard kinda felt warmth enter his cheeks as he said it. This confused him quite a bit.
"Ya I know. I hope you liked you're lunch."
Richard looked down to see that both sides of the sandwich were eaten. Though the kid had kinda barged in he kinda enjoyed eating lunch with him. He talked a lot but his voice was cute. The small stammers here and there were kinda addicting. He growled at himself in his head. That was never a good sign. Getting addicted to stuff is bad and he didn't need any more complications in his life. "I love the Turkey sandwiches from Chewy's Bakery. Thanks for Lunch."
The boy grinned a beautiful smile, "Well I hate to eat and run but I need to go. I hope I see you around." The kid got up and went to the door but stopped before he got through it. "Ummmm...," The kid walked back to the desk placed a card on the table and walked out of Richards office briskly.
Richard wasn't sure about the kids behavior. He looked at the card on his desk and stared at it. It was a minute or two before he leaned over to pick it up. It was a small business card but it didn't have anything written on it. Richard stared at the blank card and that is how his secretary Silvia found him. She cleared her throat to get Richards attention. His head slowly turned toward her. "Huh?" was the only thing he managed.
"So who was that kid, Hmmmmm?, He's a little young for you don't you think." She giggled.
Richard shook his head. "It's not like that Silvia. He wanted to buy me lunch for buying him a coffee yesterday. The poor kid was standing in the cold with one of those salvation army coffers in front of my favorite coffee shop. He looked cold so I bought him a coffee."
"Wow, that was AWWWWWfully nice of you Richard." she giggled again, "Then why did he leave you his phone number."
Richard was again confused, that was happening a lot lately he would need to do something about that. "He did NO such thing."
"You poor man, you have a young kid hitting on you and you don't even know it. Perhaps you should turn that card around," she said before walking back to her desk.
Richard turned the card over and on the back in neat cursive writing was Samuel's name, his phone number and an email address. He had to laugh at the email address it was, SamwithanL@megadesigns.com. He placed the card propped up in front of his pen holder. He couldn't help but smile. Richard cleaned up the mess from lunch then went back to working on the project. It wasn't very long before he was making great progress on the new project. His mood had been renewed and the fact that it was Christmas didn't even cross his mind.
It was coming close to closing time for him and Richard wrapped up what he was doing. He saved all his files on the flash drive he carried around. He also checked his email before he headed out of the office. Though he had a computer at home, he didn't use his email there much. Most of his email was from clients and he thought that was best left for work.
There wasn't much mail and only one possible new client that could wait until tomorrow to answer, before he clicked out of his browser his eyes fell on the small card that was sitting by his pen holder. Typing in the address for Samuel he wrote him a quick not. "Hi, Samuel. It was very nice having lunch with you today. I enjoyed it a lot. Perhaps we can do it again sometime. From, Richard."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Richard was a little disappointed when he walked path his favorite coffee shop on the way home. The green eyed boy was not standing outside the shop. He supposed the boy would be at home or perhaps out with some of his friends. Richard sighed he didn't have many friends since that incident. He was so depressed that most of his friends disappeared. Most of his other friends were "his" friends and disappeared after he left. Richard didn't want to go down that path of though.
The walk home was a peaceful one today. No walking into ghosts of his past. Which Richard was thankful for. The last two days has been awkward and mentally draining for him.
After getting home Richard made himself a quick meal, chicken and pasta and watched a few episodes of his favorite tv show, Mythbusters. The relaxing atmosphere of home wasn't enough to put him to sleep even with his lack of sleep from the night before. So he went to his computer and opened a fresh AutoCad page.
Looking at the blanks screen for only a little while he started to draw. It wasn't apparent what he was drawing until after a half an hour. Richard stopped working on the file and sat back. The unmistakable figure of a boy was in front of him. Richard sighed, what had gotten into him. He closed the file down without saving and headed for bed. Maybe tomorrow would be different.
Richard woke to his alarm like any other day and went through his normal routine. After finishing he headed for the coffee shop. Sam greeted him with a smile, "Morning Richard, What can I get you today?"
Richard ordered a Carmel mochachino with whip cream and waited for her to tell him his total but it didn't come. "Sam?" Richard said uncertain of what she was doing. Did she not get enough sleep last night?
Sam turned to him and gave him a big grin. "Your drink has already been paid for."
Richard was confused, "By who?"
Sam grinned even wider, "But I think it's suppose to be a secret." She giggled a bit at his confused expression. "Ok, it was L, he was really happy you let him buy you lunch yesterday so he bought you your coffee."
Richard mentally groaned. He really didn't want his life to get complicated again. He would have to set the boy straight later. After Richards coffee was done he told Sam to tell Samuel, thank you and left for work.
Richard opened his office like he normally did and went to his desk. It would be a little while before anyone else came so he sat to check his email. He answered the one that he left the night before. The guy wanted to add on to his home and wanted a quote on how much the plans would cost. He encouraged the potential client to have an in home meeting set up and to give his secretary a call to schedule it.
After finishing that email he looked at the next. It was from Samuel. The "SamwithanL" name still amused him. The kid was just that a kid, He didn't need the problems of an adult bringing him down. The email was simple and read, "Morning Richard! I would love it if we could od lunch again. Perhaps today? I'll be at Chevy's @ 11 if you want to join me there. Check out this link! See you later, Samuel." Richard sighed, he didn't know what he was doing when he sent that email last night. Out of childish curiosity Richard opening the link. It was to a site by Mega Designs. The objects moved playfully around the screen, bouncing around in random patterns before the message, "Hi Richard," popped up. Then a small character appeared and it someone resembled himself. The character did a few cart wheels around the screen before he jumped and the message, "Have a joyful day," appeared. The character of himself was handing from the lettering. The animation was playful and cute. It was actually quite thoughtful. Richard liked the kid in general but he didn't think he had it in his heart to accept anyone again.
Richard didn't reply to the email he closed it down and started on the next set of drawings he needed to get done. This one was an indoor play area for kids. Richard was really looking forward to this project. He had always enjoyed children and sometimes he still felt like a kid. He didn't enjoy all the things he loved when he was a kid but a good bought of cartoons could usually lift his spirits.
The time flew by and it was already 10:30. Richard wasn't sure he wanted to see the green eyed boy again but he had this crazy urge to see him again. Richard stared at the little card that was sitting on his desk. Looking away he saved the file on his computer and got up. Richard went to Siliva's desk, "I don't have any meetings today, right?"
Siliva smiled at him, "Nope your schedule is clear for the day."
Richard nodded and said, "I'm going to lunch. I'll be back in about an hour."
"Ok, Richard, you have a good lunch."
Richard went back to his office and got his coat. He found himself making the trip two doors down to Chevy's Restaurant. It was about 10:55 when he got there and he didn't see the boy. He was slightly disappointed but he pushed that feeling aside. He ordered his sandwich and ice tea before sitting down at a booth by the window. Richard didn't have to wait long before he saw the green eyed boy walking toward the eatery. The boy saw him and started walking faster, much to fast for the snow slickened sidewalk, when he got to the door of the restaurant he nearly fell grabbing the door handle to steady himself. Richard chuckled to himself the boy was amusing.
Samuel was ecstatic to see Richard there at the restaurant. He was sure that the man was going to accept his invitation. He ran over to the booth and sat down. "Hi," he said, a little too enthusiastically.
Richard smiled at the boys excitement and teased, "You were so eager to see me you almost fell, huh?"
Samuel blushed a little but didn't say anything. Richard expected the boy to joke back but was taken aback when he didn't. After regaining his composure a bit he said, "So what do you like to eat?"
"Normally I get the roast beef sandwich with everything on it and a coke."
Richard nodded and got up and to order the kids food. Samuel showed up and almost fell down again trying to stop Richard but he was already to the counter. He walked to Richard side and said, "You don't have to do that really. I can get it myself." Richard waved the boy away though and placed the order. When Richard turned back to the boy he looked kinda dejected. "You didn't have to pay for my food, you know. I'm an adult."
Richard just laughed, "Ok then, how old are you?"
"I just turned 19, Thank you very much."
Wow, Richard thought, right out of high school. "Nice animation you sent me, did you make it?"
"Oh I can make all kinds of stuff, I went to a technical high school, that taught me web deisgn and animation as well as the regular high school subjects.
Richard was impressed by the boy a little bit. "That's quite interesting. So you didn't go to college?"
"No....my highschool teachers helped me get this job and though pay is irregular sometimes it's fun and a great place to work." It was then that their food arrived they both started a eating a before continuing their conversation. Richard was half done with is sandwich when he said, "So what are you working on now?
Samuel smiled excitedly and said, "We are working on this huge project right now. The city asked us to revamp their current web page. It's really great thinking up new ways to make the site more entertaining. I added a section for kids to the project the mayor really liked that. He's helping me add some stuff ot it."
Richard was almost done with his sandwich now and was amused at how much the kid enjoyed his job. He looked at the boy and he was so excited with talking he hadn't touched much of his sandwich. "You planning on eating?" he teased.
The boy blushed again "Tell me about yourself then and I'll eat." Richard nodded and the boy bit into his sandwich. "Well," Richard started, "I'm old."
"No, you aren't"
Richard smiled, "Oh, but I am, I'm 32 already. Quite old indeed. Especially compared to you being 19. I actually own "All Done Design" and I'm the lead Architect for it."
"Wow, that's amazing. Where did you go to college?"
"I went to Azure University College of Architecture."
"Neat."
"It's not a big deal, not really a prestigious school. I've had "All Done Designs" for 3 years now. Before that I worked at an Architect firm that a friends family owned."
"Where's that firm?"
"Uh, Well, It's actually in the next city over." Richard hesitated a bit when he said that, Samuel didn't really catch it though he was quite into his food. "I had to work there for several years to get experience before I could get my license. At the time it seemed natural to stay there even after I got it but then I decided to open 'All Done Deisgn.' The freedom is really great and I have a great team working for me right now. Richard was surprised.
TBC...