Chapter 11
Chapter Eleven
ROD
We found our seats. Wyl read through the concert information and leaned into my shoulder. “What’s this Firebird?”
After the zing from the handshake in the college parking lot, the sensations from when he grabbed my shoulder to massage, and when we shook hands at dinner, I savored physical contact with Wyl, even shoulder to shoulder.
The kind of contact I missed after Patrick disappeared.
Someday, I would share the whole sordid story, but not tonight or at a symphony performance.
“The Firebird Suite is based on a Russian folk tale. The composer, Igor Stravinsky, was a Russian-born American from the first half of the 20th century. We’ll study his music later in the course.
In fact, this piece is the one we study, so you’ll have an advantage.
As the orchestra plays, I’ll help you understand how various instruments portray the characters in the tale.
The entire piece makes more sense if you are familiar with the folklore.
A brief version is printed on the back of the program. ”
Wyl turned the program over and read. The lights dimmed, and the audience applauded the concertmaster. He sat after tuning up the orchestra, and the conductor came to the podium and bowed to the applause. The concert began.
During the performance, Wyl leaned several times to whisper in my ear, “What instrument is playing now?” Wyl’s warm breath sent chills down my spine.
I shifted in my seat to relieve the pressure in my crotch.
I whispered back in Wyl’s ear, first inhaling Wyl’s scent.
I kept a firm grip on my thigh, resisting the temptation to grab Wyl’s knee every time I leaned over to answer.
At 9:30, the concert ended with a standing ovation. We left and drove out of town toward Blackfield.
“Did you enjoy the concert?” I glanced at Wyl. The dashboard lights gave his face a soft glow.
“Yes, but the way you explained things helped.” Wyl shifted in his seat to turn in my direction. “I’m glad you said something about the concert in class.”
“I'm happy you decided to go. Hearing a live concert helps you appreciate music, which is the point of the course.” I kept my eyes on the road, but the corner of my eye caught Wyl’s gaze on me.
“I enjoy the course,” Wyl said. “Your way of presenting material makes learning both meaningful and enjoyable. From a student perspective, I understand why students rate you so high.”
“Oh? And how did you find the ratings?”
“Your evaluations are on the college website. You’re the highest rated of my three professors this semester.”
“I hope you have the same impression after taking my course.” Getting compliments from students always pumped me up a bit, but from this student, the praise meant more.
Wyl not only liked me; he admired me. The urge to reach for his hand almost overcame common sense, but I kept both hands on the wheel.
Wyl’s deep voice interrupted my thoughts.
“So, what do you do when you’re not teaching? A guy like you must have a busy social life. I bet you enjoy an interesting hobby like gardening or novel writing.”
“Pfft…social life?” I shook my head. “Since I moved back to Blackfield, socializing is not high on my list. Small towns and gays don’t mix well. I run early in the morning, but that’s about it for hobbies. I have a bucket list of things I want to do. Skydiving is one. Horseback riding is another.”
“I can relate.”
Wyl turned to me every time he spoke. Although it impressed me, I wondered if his gaze meant more. I found his attention flattering, but didn't want another relationship. The pain of Patrick's betrayal stayed with me, and I vowed to avoid a repeat.
“Did you skydive while in the Marines?” I asked.
“Jump out of a plane? Nope. Not something I ever wanted to do. Plus, my job kept me in front of a computer screen. But Walt and I can do something about the horseback riding idea. Horses are a critical part of the ranch, and we enjoy them.” Wyl leaned his elbow on the console.
“Why don’t you come out to the ranch? Bring your guitar.
We’ll grill steaks. And I’ll introduce you to Walt and to the horses.
A fall and temperatures cool down, I’ll put you in the saddle. ”
“Are you kidding me? You would let me ride a horse?” My own high-pitched voice made my face heat. “I camped out as a Boy Scout and always dreamed of riding a horse. Aside from a ride on a rent-a-horse while in college, the thrill of being on a fine steed is a far-off dream.”
Wyl barked out a laugh. “A rent-a-horse is no way to enjoy horseback riding. Those horses are aggressive and in a hurry to return to the stable. Our stable includes a gentle horse you’ll enjoy riding, and he’ll respond to your commands. We can camp out one night if you like.”
I grinned until my cheeks hurt. “Man, you’re pushing all the right buttons. You tell me when, and I’ll be by your side.” Plastered to your side, nuzzling your neck, licking your skin. Whoa…wait a minute. What happened to the vow of friends only?
We chatted for the rest of the drive back to Blackfield. Time passed faster than I wanted. We arrived at the campus parking area at 10:30.
Wyl turned and leaned in my direction to unbuckle his seat belt. “Night, Rod. Thanks for the evening. I learned a lot.”
My heart sped up at the thought of Wyl leaning over to kiss me. Both disappointment and relief flooded me when he didn’t. “Take care, Wyl. I enjoyed your company and can't wait for horseback riding.”
“I’ll make a horseman out of you.” Wyl closed the door and waved as he strolled back to his truck.
As I drove home, I pondered the magical evening.
Wyl mentioned having no friends and wanting to avoid blind dates.
Walt and he lived alone in the family home, so common sense said no wife.
And he displayed no qualms about whispering in my ear at the concert.
Plus, he talked about gay rodeo, and although he came up with a logical explanation, I sensed more to the story. If I can only figure out how to ask.