Friends and Family 10

Chapter 10

Milton climbed the steps into the cafe. At least he didn’t hear screaming reverberating through the old four paned windows or see Trent dragging a red-haired demon from a lair behind the dumpsters. This morning Milton hadn’t been sure where Blade’s mood was going, and with Sheldon going into full meltdown mode, all he could do was dump Blade on the unsuspecting Trent and Mace.

This was not a good week for Tilden to be gone. While Tilden would never admit it, he had the experience to manage Blade. His sharp eye probably would have prevented the whole mess in the first place. Milton had been leery of letting the boys go last night but had finally convinced himself he was being paranoid and draconian. If Tilden had been concerned, Milton would either have kept his Zath devils home or gone as an escort. A night of sappy Christmas films was never a treat, but he’d watch a two week marathon to prevent another day like this.

Sheldon, at least for the moment, had settled down and was sleeping soundly. Gordon and Landon, who must have left Vermont well before sunrise, had arrived and could deal with Sheldon if he woke. Sheldon was surprisingly friendly with Landon, considering their age difference, and Landon would be invaluable in getting Sheldon through the rest of the afternoon. It would be Landon who would hang on to Sheldon when Milton was being caned. Landon could be as solid as any top in a time of crisis. Landon might be Gordon’s submissive, but in most situations he was a dominant, and while he didn’t broadcast it among strangers, Landon self-identified as a switch. He played easily and competently on the top side, even though he never switched roles with Gordon, not that Milton hadn’t seen Landon manage Gordon with a few well chosen words. Landon had taught Milton to read subs, and Landon studied them like a master actor learning new moves, seeing the slightest nuances that meant the difference between belligerence and fear. They’d need all that skill to deal with two naive submissives and Sheldon this afternoon.

The cafe was quiet. Two of the local villagers were browsing the mystery aisle, and a professor, who’d not yet left on vacation, gave Milton a nod over her expresso. Blade was quietly trailing behind Mace, wiping up tables and laying out fresh flatware. 

“What did you do to him?” Milton asked as Trent came up behind him.

“Spanked him,” Trent said in that succinct way he dropped shocking information.

Milton’s eyebrows rose, and he blinked sharply. “He didn’t raise holy terror?”

“No, practically asked for it and calmed down right away. You should have done it when he first showed up. He doesn’t understand what to expect from you, and he’s frightened.”

For Trent, a man of few words and great reticence, that was a sharp rebuke and a well deserved one. Milton nodded. “I’ll get it worked out and thank you. I know it wasn’t fair to saddle you with my problem this morning.”

Trent squeezed Milton’s arm. “I’m glad to help. I like the kid, and I guess it’s high time I take my place as one of the tops in the household. I’m here if you need me. It’s not just Tilden who has your back.”

Trent signaled for Mace to bring Blade over before Milton had a chance to process Trent’s statement and thank him properly.

“Be good,” Trent said, ruffling Blade’s hair and giving him a gentle push toward Milton. “I’ll see you both this evening.”

Milton dropped his arm around Blade’s shoulders, feeling the slight tensing. “I’m not going to kill you, boy. Let’s go home and work this out. It’s not as bad as you’re fearing.”

Blade didn’t actively resist, but the look he gave Trent was heartbreaking. Milton tightened his arm, drew Blade close, and dropped a kiss on his hair. Sheldon would have melted against him, but Blade held himself stiff. Milton shook his head and shot Trent a wry smile.

“Thank you, Trent, Mace.”

“Anytime.” Trent said, reaching out to muss Blade’s hair again.

Blade was quiet on the short trip home, looking out the window at the bare trees strung haphazardly with Christmas lights. Being a college town, little effort was put into the Christmas decorations, and many of the small shops were open limited hours. With students back in their home towns, the population had dropped by half.

Milton kept his hand on Blade’s knee. This was a frightened boy, far more frightened than Milton had expected. He’d thought being Sheldon’s partner would have lessened his own intimidation factor. Milton had been expecting heated resistance over the restrictions he was going to put on Blade’s life, but he’d thought he’d be able to lightly bully Blade into complying. Now he’d have to move with greater deliberation; defiance and fear were a heady combination.

Milton pulled into the driveway and escorted Blade into the house and down the basement stairs. Gordon and Landon were with Sheldon and would keep him upstairs and out of earshot if he awoke. Sheldon was an experienced submissive and wasn’t unfamiliar with the noise of a boy being spanked, but still this was his brother.

“Sit down,” Milton pointed to a rummage sale reject chair with threadbare upholstery on its arms. The chair usually served more as a temporary dock for folded clothes rather than a seat. Milton leaned against the washer and studied Blade. The kid looked like Sheldon, younger of course and with a more furtive expression. Blade had lost the calm he’d shown with Trent and Mace, his eyes darting up to Milton’s face, around the room, and back to the arm of the chair. “Steady, boy. We’re going to talk before I do anything else to you.”

“Are you going to spank me?”

“That’s up to you,” Milton said, shifting his hips to slouch a bit more and hopefully look less intimidating.

“You spank my brother?”

“I do, and I did this morning.”

“Trent tried to explain.”

“Did it help?”

Blade shrugged, picking at a loose thread. “He wasn’t frightening.”

“Am I frightening?”

Blade said nothing, still worrying the loose threads on the chair.

“If I’m going to top you, you need to be honest with me.”

“My brother was frightened this morning. What did you do to him?”

“I spanked him, and we talked. Same as I’d like to do for you. I didn’t harm him. Should we wake him so we can talk to him?”

Blade shrugged, but Milton could see the tight lines of worry around the kid’s eyes.

“Come on.” Milton dropped his arm around Blade’s shoulder, ignoring the boy’s stiff posture and guided him back upstairs.

The bedroom was dark. The curtains had been pulled against the weak winter sun, and all the lights were off. Landon was stretched out on the bed, not quite sleeping, one arm draped over Sheldon. Gordon sat on the one chair, a laptop balanced on his knee, and squinted at the dim screen.

“This must be Blade,” Gordon said softly, standing and extending his hand. “I’m Gordon, and my partner Landon is half sleeping on the bed. Are you doing OK, lad?”

Blade flinched at Gordon’s familiarity and might have protested if Milton hadn’t squeezed his shoulder. “He calls me his boy or his lad sometimes. It’s a sign of affection and not meant to be demeaning,” Milton explained, ignoring Gordon’s sharp eyes on him. “Blade needs to speak to Sheldon.”

“You haven’t told him.” The censure was clear in Gordon’s voice for anyone who knew him well. He didn’t say you haven’t spelled out your relationship with Sheldon, or you haven’t topped Blade yet. Gordon didn’t need to say more. Milton knew, and Gordon might as well have ordered Milton to go over his knees. The slight change in modulation carried that much displeasure.

Milton tipped his head a fraction, acknowledging and accepting the rebuke. “Does Sheldon know you’re here?”

“No, he hasn’t awakened.”

“I’ll wake him,” Landon said, propping himself up on one elbow. “He’ll want to talk to his brother, and he’ll go back to sleep for me. Hey, brat,” Landon said, running his fingers through the disorderly red hair and tickling the exposed ear.

“What?” came muffled through the pillows.

“I need you to wake up for a second; you have company.”

“I wanna sleep.”

“Later,” Landon flicked Sheldon’s neck with his fingers.

“Stop I’m waking,” Sheldon flipped over and grimaced as his butt grazed the bed. “Ow, I’m sore.”

“You deserve to be,” Landon said without sympathy. “My hind end would have been blistered for a week if I’d tried that trick with Gordon.”

“Gordon’s here, isn’t he?” Sheldon said, wiping the sleep from his eyes.

“Yes, I’m here, and yes, I have to do this. Steve broke the pledge.”

“It was my fault.”

“Didn’t Milton talk to you about guilt and culpability? Steve understood the terms of the pledge. Both Joshua and I were very clear with him.”

“But --”

“No, Sheldon,” Gordon said sharply. “You picked a bad way to communicate with Milton, and you did Steve no favors, making it simple for him to violate the pledge, but you are not responsible for him. You are responsible for your behavior toward your partner, and it was despicable. Has Milton made that clear, or do you need further clarification? I can take you over my knee.”

“Please, no. I’m too sore.”

Gordon stood, walked over to the bed, and kissed Sheldon’s forehead. “You could have called either Landon or me, and we would have sorted out Milton for you. This was not the way to do it, and I don’t want to ever see you do something like this again.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Good boy.” Gordon kissed Sheldon’s forehead again. 

“Are you going to cane Luke and Mike? They weren’t anywhere around,” Sheldon said with a touch of panic in his voice.

“Settle down, boy. They understood their responsibilities in this pledge, and technically the same burden should fall on them as will fall on Milton and Joshua, but I think it would be unfair to both Steve and you to repeat this process for the same offense. Tilden’s boys will be spared this time, but I expect you to fully inform Tilden and his partners of what transpired. I will ask.” Gordon gave Sheldon a warning look.

“Tilden will be mad,” Sheldon said softly, pulling the quilt tighter around his shoulders.

“Is Tilden ever mad or angry with you?” Gordon asked, softening his voice.

“He protects his boys.”

“That he does, but he wouldn’t take it out on another submissive. With me on the other hand, he might let fly,” Gordon smiled. “I believe you might describe my relationship with Tilden as not being his favorite person.”

“I’m glad they were out of town,” Sheldon murmured.

“Sheldon,” Blade said, pulling away from Milton. “Are you all right?”

“I’m better than I was this morning.” Sheldon sat up, wincing as he put weight on his bottom.

“He hurt you!”

“Milton spanked me; he didn’t hurt me. It’s the way we agree to live. Has he talked to you?”

“I’m trying,” Milton said. “Blade was worried about you.”

“I’m fine, munchkin. No thanks to you.”

“Sheldon,” Milton warned.

“I know.” Sheldon gave Milton an apologetic grin.

“If I’d come home when you asked, this wouldn’t have happened,” Blade said almost cringing.

“Stop beating yourself up,” Sheldon said. “I didn’t get the tar spanked out of me so you could feel all guilty. Milton would have found out anyway. It would have taken him a day or two to worm it out of me, and I would have felt miserable. At least this way, we all get it over quickly.” 

“I don’t think I want this,” Blade said, furtively wiping a tear with the back of his hand.

“You’re a brat, munchkin. I should know; I’m one, and it’s OK to be scared. I was scared this morning. Milton didn’t hurt me, and he won’t hurt you. Let him do his top thing.” Sheldon gave his brother a weak grin. “He’s good at it, sometimes too good with the paddle.”

“You deserved it, boy,” Gordon growled, flicking the back of Sheldon’s head in more of a caress than a slap.

“I’m not saying I didn’t, but he could have done it a little less hard.”

“Maybe I didn’t do it hard enough if you’re already getting smart with me,” Milton teased back.

“I take that back,” Sheldon said with traces of his usual mocking. “I’m like Goldilocks and the three bears. I’ve tried it all, and it was just right.”

“Behave, my cheeky boy.” Milton held his hand out. “Are we doing this, Blade? It’s ultimately your choice.”

Blade looked at Milton and back at his brother. “Go on. Milton will take good care of you,” Sheldon said. “We’ll trade war stories when you’re done.”

Blade took an indecisive step toward Milton. “It’s your choice,” Milton said, not making any move to reach further toward the young man. Blade took another step and reached for Milton’s hand. Milton snugged his fingers around Blade’s hand. “I’ll take care of you. Trust me.”

Milton could hear Blade’s shaky breath as they descended the stairs. The boy was near real tears. Milton shifted his grip from Blade’s hand to an arm wrapped around the slight shoulders. He could hear the sharp intake of breath and feel the stiffening in the shoulders as he changed positions. “I won’t spank you if you don’t trust me to touch you.”

Milton sat in the broken down armchair, pulling Blade down on his lap. The chair creaked and sagged under their combined weight. Milton waited, keeping his arms snug around Blade’s waist. Stray pieces of hand wash hung on the makeshift clothesline, a dress shirt that looked like it had lost its battle with a catsup bottle and the wool socks that Trent and Mace wore for tramping around the damp woods. On the ironing board, a pile of napkins sat waiting to be pressed. That had to be Trent or Mace; no one else ironed napkins. Milton looked more closely. They were the fine linen they used only for entertaining. At least the top few had holly leaves embroidered in one corner. Trent must be planning a Christmas gathering. It had become customary for Trent and Mace to prepare a Christmas Eve feast for students who remained on campus over the holiday break. Milton hadn’t thought they went as far as fine linen.

Blade shifted in Milton’s lap, letting his head rest against Milton’s chest.

“That’s it. I won’t hurt you.” Milton dropped his chin, resting it on Blade’s fiery red hair. “Breathe for me, and then we’ll talk.”

“This is weird,” Blade said, starting to squirm again.

“Humor me. I’m weird. I prefer to spank boys who aren’t terrified of me or hating me.”

“You didn’t hurt Sheldon?”

It was as much a question as a statement, and Milton chose to treat it like a question. “Your older brother looks like a rampaging brat. I know you’ve seen him create chaos and outrage at family events, but today was different for him. Throwing ice across the table is a game. Doing something that he knows I will fundamentally disapprove of is not. He knew and understood the consequences of walking into a bar with you and Steve. He was upset, not because he thought I would hurt him, but because he thought I would be disappointed in him. I was disappointed in his actions, not in him. He’s my lover, my soulmate; nothing will ever change that. He remembers now. I would never harm him. Did Trent harm you this morning?”

“No,” Blade answered without hesitation.

“Why did he spank you?”

“I threw carrots at him and was toying with a knife.”

“You don’t mess with Trent in the kitchen.” Milton suppressed a chuckle. He’d seen Sheldon bug the life out of Trent and never get more than a swat and a push to the nearest corner, but Sheldon didn’t bug Trent when he cooked. “Would you have thrown the knife?” Milton wasn’t sure if Blade would answer him honestly at this stage, but he needed to lay the foundation for open and difficult discussions.

“I don’t know.”

“That was honest. Thank you. What do you think I do as a top?”

“You’re going to spank me.”

“Yes, I am, but more importantly I talk to you like we’re talking now. I need to know what you’re thinking, or the experience will be unpleasant for both of us. My job is to help you find your way, to help you understand your submission, and I know submission is a terrifying concept. To want another man to control you, even if only in play, is frightening and almost impossible to admit, and you want more than a night in some random club at a dominant’s feet or you wouldn’t be here. Sheldon likes to pretend this relationship is only about discipline and taming his wild side, but it is about dominance and submission. I can’t take this into the bedroom; you’re my lover’s brother, but I’ll try to show you that this is more than me punishing you for irresponsible behavior. I expect you to obey me and submit to me, or I will punish you. Why do you think I’m going to punish you today?”

“I’m not old enough to drink.” Blade squirmed in Milton’s lap and started to swing his legs.

“Don’t kick me,” Milton said and placed a hand over Blade’s knees to still his feet.

“It’s a stupid law. I’m old enough to get married and serve in the army. Why can’t I have a drink?”

“You can take that up with your elected representative. As long as you live here, you don’t break the law, which means no drinking even at home. Is that understood?”

“Yeah, I guess.”

“You need to do more than guess.”

“Fine. I won’t drink,” Blade snapped.

“Good, I prefer my boys not get arrested, but I also prefer my students don’t get arrested, and I don’t spank them. Why am I spanking you?”

“How the fuck should I know?”

“Careful, boy. I don’t think you want to add any more trouble. You already have an impressive list.”

“Why don’t you rub my nose in it?” Blade spat.

Milton landed two hard swats on Blade’s thigh.

“Ow!” Blade rubbed his leg, his lower lip sticking out in an impressive pout.

“What a brat you are!” Milton said with a smile in his voice and tousled Blade’s hair. “It’s not the best idea to be rude when you’re sitting on a top’s lap. You’re within easy swatting distance.”

“I don’t like being swatted,” Blade whined, still rubbing his thigh.

“I think you’re a drama queen, boy.” Milton kissed the red hair. This kid was going to be the death of some top with his expressive voice and beguiling innocent look. No wonder Sheldon had said that Blade was always trailed by a pack of admirers of both sexes. Manipulative little boy, and he knew it.

“You’re mean.”

“Maybe. Why else am I going to spank you?”

“We were supposed to be home by midnight.”

“Even for a meanie like me, spanking for a missed curfew is draconian. I wouldn’t unless we’d talked about it repeatedly.”

“How else would you punish me?”

Milton blinked and shook his head. This boy could go from a pouting almost playing a brat to a worried kid in the space of a single breath. “Lines, corner time, extra chores, grounding. We work on it together and find out what works for you.”

“Josh put me in the corner. He was mad when I didn’t stay there. He was mad at me all morning.”

“Joshua had three upset boys to handle this morning. Were you making his life more difficult?”

Blade shrugged. “He put soap in Sheldon’s mouth. I didn’t like that. He wouldn’t stop.”

“Blade,” Milton said softly, tucking the red head back under his chin. “It’s hard to see your brother in trouble, especially an older brother who you’ve looked up to. Sheldon is a submissive by choice, and he understands the rules with the tops. If he’s in trouble, he’s expecting it and all right with it. If it upsets you, you need to talk to one of us. We’ll help. You’re not alone any more. OK?”

Blade nodded, but he didn’t look convinced.

“It will get easier. Why else am I going to spank you?” Milton asked again, deciding to return to the original topic.

“I don’t know.”

“What did you and Sheldon tell me when you left last night.”

“That we were going to the movies.”

“Where did you go?”

“Into Boston to the bars.”

“You don’t get to lie to me in this relationship. When I take on a role of a dominant, I become responsible for your safety. If you’re dishonest with me in any way, I will spank you. Is that understood?”

Blade said nothing, hunching his body closer to Milton.

“I asked you a question.”

“Yeah, I get it. If I lie, I get spanked. I’m not stupid.”

“I never said you were,” Milton said, flipping Blade, so the boy was straddling Milton’s lap and unable to look away. “Being submissive is not a negative reflection on your intelligence nor is it a condemnation on your ability to use common sense. It is a desire to submit and allow someone else a degree of control, including the delivery of physical pain, that is not usually socially acceptable. I would be plenty angry that you went and behaved illegally last night, but I will only physically touch you because you are a submissive.”

“Lucky me.”

 That is not the best tone to use with a top when you’re already in trouble. A more appropriate response is ‘yes, sir.’ I don’t insist on sir, but both Gordon and Joshua would. I’m going to let that mouthiness slide today because I understand your apprehension about what’s coming. Let’s get this done.”

Milton slid Blade to his feet and with practiced ease lowered his jeans before pulling him back over Milton’s knees. “You’re safe here. Try to relax for me.” Milton rubbed Blade’s stiff back and with a quick flick lowered the boy’s boxers, exposing the pink butt cheeks. He hadn’t planned to spank Blade bare today, but with Trent already peppering the young fanny, Milton needed to make sure he didn’t hurt Blade. Milton wanted a good sting, not bruising.

Milton landed a sharp swat, gauging the soft yip and buck to determine the force. He spanked Sheldon often but rarely beyond a warm pink. For Sheldon, it was the act of submitting over his top’s knees that he sought; he didn’t need physical pain. Today had been far harder than usual, hopefully making a clear memory of punishment and forgiveness. Milton didn’t have that emotional connection with Blade. This was a submissive, his partner’s brother, but did he wrap himself in guilt, and would he allow Milton to tame the wild side without resenting him?

Milton made two quick circuits. The boy cried easily and freely over Milton’s lap, almost limp from the start. Milton shifted, reached under the chair, and pulled out his paddle. Blade didn’t move, hanging flaccidly, clutching Milton’s pants leg. Next time he’d know the shift meant that Milton was reaching for the paddle. Milton tightened his grip on Blade’s waist and landed the paddle with a sharp crack.

Blade bellowed, bucked, and immediately reached back to block the vulnerable target. Milton caught the hand and pinned it to the young man’s back.

“You don’t want me to catch your fingers. Hang in there. I will paddle you every time you lie to me.” Milton landed five more spanks before dropping the paddle with a clatter on the cement floor. “Breathe. We’re all done now. Milton drew up the boxers and rubbed Blade’s shoulders. “I’ve got you now. Breathe for me.” Milton let Blade cry, rubbing the boy’s shoulders, until he heard the tears change to hiccups and swallowed sobs. Milton pulled Blade upright, resting the sore rear between his knees and closing his arms firmly around the boy. “Was it that bad?”

“It hurt more than Trent.”

“I used the paddle.”

“I don’t like it.”

“Don’t lie to me. I will use it every time you lie.”

“I don’t like it,” Blade repeated, chewing on his lower lip.

“You’re not supposed to, but you control when I use it. Behave and I won’t need to use it.”

“You use it on my brother?”

“You know I do. It works well for him. I think it will work well for you also.”

Blade frowned but didn’t object. He burrowed closer to Milton. This kid was a submissive; Sheldon had been right. Blade hadn’t fought going over Milton’s knee, and now he was seeking comfort like a freezing man huddling by a fire.

Milton held Blade, not hurrying the boy. He needed the comfort and acceptance. A first spanking was hard between lovers. Between Blade and Milton, it had the added complication that Milton would never be Blade’s lover, but he was more than a surrogate top. Sheldon loved this kid, and to Milton he was family, entitled to certain rights and protections even if he hadn’t been a submissive.

Blade whimpered as he shifted, his head resting unashamedly on Milton’s chest. “Don’t fall asleep here. I’m a strapping guy, but I’m not thirty any longer. Carrying you up the basement stairs would put me in traction for a month.”

“I’m tired.”

“I know.” Milton ruffled Blade’s hair. “We have to get through my business with Gordon, and then you can sleep.”

“He’s really going to cane you?”

“Yes.”

“You’re a top.”

“I made an agreement, and being a top doesn’t exempt me from holding up my end of the deal even when it includes corporal punishment. I have responsibilities to this community as you have responsibilities to me as your top and to this community now that you’re officially a submissive.” Milton ruffled Blade’s hair again. “It sounds overwhelming now, but it will seem natural soon enough. Do you think you’re ready to face the world?”

“Not yet.”

“We can sit here as long as you need.” Milton tightened his arms around Blade and dropped a soft kiss on his hair.

The house was quiet as Blade curled into Milton. Milton shut his eyes and tried to find the calm he was going to need to make it through the afternoon. Gordon never caned gently. Milton sucked in his breath, thinking of the flaming welts.

Milton blinked and looked up. Both of them much have drifted off. Gordon stood on the stairs, his eyes gentle. “The troops are getting restless. We need to take care of things.”

Milton nodded and schooled his expression into practiced blandness. “Up, Blade. We need to go.” He lifted Blade to his feet, Milton’s knees cracking as he stood. 

Gordon hooked an arm around Milton’s waist as they passed on the narrow stairs. “I’ve got you, my lad.” Gordon kissed the back of Milton’s neck. It had been years since Gordon had been this openly affectionate with Milton, and he had to check himself to prevent a flinch. “This will work. I’ll make it work. You trust me?”

“Always.”

“Good boy.”

Josh came to the door. He must have been expecting them because Gordon hadn’t put his finger to the bell. “Come in. We’re ready.”

Steve was in the living room, draped over Jer with only the tip of his fair hair showing under Jer’s large forearm. The Christmas tree stood in one corner, the lights blinking incongruously in the somber mood. 

“Steve,” Gordon said crouching down in front of the sofa. “I need you to look at me.”

“Yes, sir.” Steve poked his fair head out from under Jer’s arm, clutching tightly to the older man.

“Do you understand why I’m here?”

“I broke the pledge,” Steve said his voice cracking. “It’s not fair. I’m the one who misbehaved, not Joshua.”

“Joshua, Milton, and Tilden agreed to guarantee your behavior. You broke the guarantee, and this is the consequence. They understood, and now you will.”

“It’s still not fair,” Steve said, wiping tears from his face.

Gordon reached forward, his thumb catching a stray tear, his fingers playing in the scattered bangs. “This isn’t meant to be easy or fun. Watching me cane Joshua and Milton will probably be one of the hardest things you have ever done. I won’t harm them; I promise.” Gordon kissed Steve’s forehead, fiercely possessive and reassuring. “They honor and accept the commitments they made to you. You must do the same.”

“Yes, sir,” Steve choked.

“Milton, Joshua, over here.” Milton moved in front of an oversized chair with massive rolled arms. “Over the arm, Joshua.”

Josh grimaced and draped himself over the arm. Milton caught Sheldon’s eye and tried to give him a reassuring smile. Landon had a tight hold around Sheldon’s hips and had pulled him down on the sofa along with his younger brother. Jer had hidden Steve’s face in his chest, and from the shake of the shoulders, the boy was crying hard. Sheldon was fighting his own tears, and Blade’s dark green eyes swam in his pale face.

“I’m going to give you six.” Gordon raised his arm and laid down the first stroke. He’d always caned  efficiently and precisely, and today was no exception.

Joshua was silent, hardly flinching as each stroke was laid down. Steve was sobbing, and Jer had him crushed in his arms, murmuring a reassuring litany. Sheldon had lost his battle with tears and was leaning unashamedly into Landon. Landon had yanked the frozen Blade onto his chest about halfway through, and now the two redheads lay with Blade’s longer hair brushing the edge of Sheldon’s ear.

Gordon pulled Joshua up and wrapped him in a fierce hug. In an undertone, Gordon said, “Go take care of your beautiful boys. They need you. Can you try not to make me do this again?”

“We’ll try,” Joshua said with a faint trace of a smile. He pulled away from Gordon and shook his hand. “You have honored our family with your service. Thank you.”

“The honor was mine,” Gordon said with equal formality.

Steve jerked out of Jer’s arms and sprang at Josh who swept the boy into his arms. “I’m fine. I told you I would be.”

“That had to hurt.”

“It’s not a massage, but we old guys are tough. Jer, are you OK?” Joshua dropped a hand on his long time partner’s shoulder.

Jer looked up, his dark brown eyes wet with tears. “I can’t do this.”

“You can. You’re strong. Milton and his family need your support. I’m fine.”

“No, you’re not. I can see it in your eyes. I’ve been caned. It hurts.”

“I’ve had worse,” Joshua said with a rueful grin. “At least I got to keep my pants on.” He bent down and kissed Jer. “You can give both of us a hug. I think we need one.”

Jer stood and wrapped his massive arms around his partner and their young charge. Without concern to the propriety of a top taking comfort from his submissive in public, he pulled both Josh and Steve down on his lap.

Gordon glanced over at the three of them before turning back to Milton. “Over here and drop your trousers.”

Milton walked over to the chair, keeping his expression as neutral as possible. This was going to seriously hurt. Gordon had caned him on the bare before, but it had been years ago when Milton was more resilient and far more angry. It was his anger that usually carried him through a caning. Any fight with Gordon had ended with Milton over the bed taking anywhere from six to a full dozen. Gordon hadn’t tolerated Milton’s tantrums. A small half heard curse could be labeled a tantrum under Gordon’s regime.  That a dominant must control his temper had been drilled into his backside.

Milton unbuckled his belt and slid his corduroys to his knee before dropping over the chair arm. Gordon’s hand rested on the small of Milton’s back. “It will be nine. Next time I’ll do a full dozen.”

Milton swallowed, gripping the cushion tightly. He’d thought he’d get the dozen. He should be thankful for small favors.

“I’ll see you through this, boy.” Gordon whispered.

Milton felt the increased pressure on his back, and the sharp rush of cold air as his boxers were pulled down.. The first stroke was going to land in a second. He heard the cane before he felt the sharp sting. Milton clenched his stomach muscles, trying not to move and ground his teeth together. Sheldon was already upset; he didn’t need to watch Milton make a fuss.

Gordon was quick as always. Each blow falling almost before the full crescendo of the previous strike. He laid down five strokes before Milton felt Gordon shift. He was going to make a cross stroke. Milton braced hard, but he couldn’t stop the yip that left his throat as the cane landed. Three more he coached himself, scrabbling to hold his position. He couldn’t stop the slight yelps as the cane landed, swallowing hard at the thick mucus in his throat and blinking back stinging tears. 

Milton flinched as his boxers were drawn back over his hips. “It’s all over, my brave boy. Gordon pulled Milton into his arms, kissing the flushed cheeks. “My brave boy,” Gordon repeated.

Milton rested his head over Gordon’s shoulder and unashamedly leaned against his mentor and friend, unable to stop the tears leaking from his eyes. Gordon rubbed the back of Milton’s neck: slow, steady, and gentle. Gordon had a reputation for being a tough dominant; some might even call him harsh, but Milton knew his comfort and care. He’d taught Milton to handle his innate drive to protect, to comfort, to control—how to take control without condemning  a submissive to a dull flightless existence. Gordon believed a submissive should soar. Both Grandfather and Gordon had assumed Milton was at the highest end of the dominant scale and would settle with a submissive who longed for the strength and control of a master. He’d been trained with all the implements, and he could caress as well as punish, but when Milton played in college, Gordon never pressed him to settle down. Landon had coaxed Milton through several failed attempts at more serious relationships which always seemed to crash and burn over real life versus the playroom, and it had been both of them who’d finally said that he was a top’s top—the rare top who would train others, who would shape the next generation. His energy needed directed beyond his own partner.

Gordon had seen Tilden as the first of Milton’s trainee tops, and at least in the beginning hadn’t realized the true affection between the two men. Tilden’s initial disastrous first impression of Gordon hadn’t helped. Milton had been forced to divide his loyalties between the man who had taught Milton to harness his power and his closest friend. Somehow both friendships had survived. Gordon had dealt with an impossible Sheldon and defended a relationship that many had thought was doomed to disaster. Sheldon didn’t enjoy the overt displays of submissiveness. Cuffs, collars, and whips were too much for the boy despite his blatant need for Milton’s strength. Gordon had shown Milton how to handle Sheldon, a boy as different from Landon as night was from day, and from the tightness of Gordon’s grip around Milton’s shoulders and the reassuring words that Milton was only hearing as a distant tinkling, Gordon was going to help with Blade.

“You’re not in this alone, my lad. I’m here; Landon’s here. Don’t you forget that. You’re a top, the envy of almost any top worth the name top, but the world does not sit on your shoulder’s alone. You will always be my brave boy, and I will not abandon you, but you will settle with me for your mistakes.”

“I should have topped Blade immediately.”

“Or sent him to someone who was more comfortable. I understand your reservations. He’s your partner’s brother. He’s going to be a father, and he’s bisexual.”

“How do I advise him on women or fatherhood? I don’t know anything about either topic.”

“The same way you offer advice on any topic. You ask questions; you listen, and you ask the experts. Blade’s a submissive, and you know submissives. The other parts will fall into place. Are you feeling more together? Landon dragged your boys off to the kitchen to give us some privacy, but I’m sure by this point he has Sheldon by his belt and is playing hide and seek with Blade.” Gordon reached into his pocket and pulled out pristine white, starched handkerchief. “Dry your eyes and blow your nose.”

“You still carry these,” Milton marveled, shaking out the ironed piece of cloth. “There was always one if I needed it.”

Gordon smiled and reached into his pocket. “I have two more plus extras in my jacket. I didn’t want to run short today.”

Milton reached into his own pocket, wincing as his pants rubbed across the tender flesh. “I still have one left. I gave one to Blade.”

“Good boy. You were always a fast learner.” Gordon pulled Milton’s head down and kissed his forehead. “My smart lad. Come it’s time to take care of your boys.”

****

Sheldon wanted to squirm out of Landon’s grip and return to the living room. When Gordon had been swinging his vicious cane, Sheldon had been glad to hide against Landon, but now he wanted his partner. Milton had been crying, he’d been trying hard to hide it, but Sheldon knew his man.

“Give him a few minutes with Gordon,” Landon repeated for the fifth time. “Gordon can handle him, and your place is with your brother until your partner is here. Your brother was spanked for the first time today; he needs you.”

“Milton needs me.”

“Milton needs you to take care of your brother. You have a responsibility now.” Landon softened his tone and grinned almost conspiratorially. “Gordon’s nice after a caning. It’s about the only time he’s soft and squishy; Milton might as well take advantage of sweet Gordon because with a quick change in the phone booth he’s back to Gordon The Marauder, tamer of misguided submissives and dominants everywhere.”

“Landon,” Sheldon sputtered, giddy with laughter. “I’ve got to see this teddy bear Gordon.

“You know what I mean,” Landon said, giving Sheldon a friendly shove. “You’ve been over his knee.”

“I try to forget about that part. That’s like dwelling on a memory of a tooth extraction.”

“It always seemed to work for you, and how was Gordon afterward? Honestly, not the easy answer.”

“Come on, Landon,” Sheldon whined. “You’re on my side; you’re not supposed to ask the hard questions.”

Landon raised a single eyebrow, looking every bit like a top. “Whining doesn’t become you, and it’s an important question.”

“Gordon always treated me fairly,” Sheldon muttered. “I hated being spanked by him.”

“I know he’s not Milton. It’s harder without your partner.” Landon squeezed Sheldon’s shoulder. “You know, Gordon tries to divert you, but sometimes you blow through all the stop signals.”

Sheldon smiled ruefully. “I know, but I need it sometimes.”

“And you knew Gordon would do it,” Landon finished the sentence.

Sheldon nodded. “And he would find out whatever was bothering me at the end. He knew what  to ask and how to ask, almost like Milton.”

“He trained Milton, and he loves both of you.”

“Why did he cane Milton bare? He didn’t deserve more than Josh.”

“Could you really talk to Gordon until after he spanked you?”

Sheldon could feel his cheeks redden. “No.”

“Milton couldn’t either. That caning was about letting Milton know Gordon has his back. So stop tearing yourself up about getting Milton brutally caned. He had it coming, and if you run around leaking guilt, someone will pull you over his knees, and I think you’re pretty sore from this morning.” Landon patted Sheldon’s butt.

“Ow, you bastard.”

“Sore then. What did Milton use?”

“A little paddle.”

“Those hurt,” Landon said with feeling.

“No kidding. He’d never used it before.”

Landon hooked an arm around Sheldon’s neck and kissed the top of his head. “A new implement is always worse the first time around. I should know. Gordon’s tried everything on me. We need to mingle; Joshua’s been shooting us worried looks, and Blade’s being uncooperative. Joshua’s giving him a talking to. I’m starving,” Landon said as he pushed Sheldon toward the table.

Someone had organized the provisions with Mace and Trent. The table sagged under the weight of the food, and it was everybody’s favorites: barbecue chicken, macaroni and cheese, biscuits with local jam, salad, green beans, and Mace’s incredible cherry pie.

“We missed breakfast this morning,” Landon said, grabbing a plate and piling it high with food.

“That wasn’t very top like. Gordon must be slipping on the job,” Jer said.

“I know. If he keeps that up, someone will revoke his top license,” Landon joked.

“Steve, you need to eat,” Joshua said, one arm wrapped around the boy’s shoulders. “I let you off this morning. I can make you some toast if you’re still queasy.”

“He throws up when he’s nervous. It’s worlds of fun,” Jer said, rolling his eyes and laughing.

“Are you feeling left out here?” Josh asked pointedly.

“No,” Jer said, shaking his head, still smiling.

“I can fix that, and we do have something to discuss this evening.”

“What?” Jer said, with the perfect look of wide-eyed innocence.

“I found the paddle that went missing. I thought you said it must have ended up in the box that went to the jumble. It was nicely hidden under the old towels. I assume you have something to do with that. Hmm?”

Jer groaned. 

“Busted,” Sheldon gloated. “Hiding implements. What were you thinking?”

“And you’ve never done such a thing?” Jer shot back with easy good humor.

“Of course not, I’m the model brat.”

Joshua snorted. “And money grows on trees.”

“Don’t ruin my image.”

Joshua laughed. “I don’t need to. You can do that all yourself, but don’t worry, honey. We all love you the way you are.”

“That’s right,” Gordon said from the doorway, his arm draped around Milton who looked slightly red eyed but managed a bright smile for Sheldon and Blade. 

“I’m being told I’m a naughty brat,” Sheldon said with a fake pout, “and I’m not the one who hid the paddle.”

“I think I’m missing something here,” Milton said, capturing Sheldon in his arms and kissing him fiercely.

“Dearest Jer decided he didn’t like one of my paddles. I mysteriously found it in the linen closest,” Josh said.

“Were you feeling left out?” Gordon asked, not hiding his smile.

“No,” Jer spluttered. “It’s been months since I put it there. This isn’t fair.”

“All’s fair in love and war,” Joshua said, kissing Jer’s cheek. “Do you need a spanking?”

“God, no,” Jer spluttered. “I want amnesty.”

“Hmm, we’ll see.”

“Do you have anything to confess?” Gordon said, poking Landon. “If we’re considering amnesty, I think we need to know all the crimes.”

“Well, there was the time when Milton was still a young college lad—”

“No, we’re not telling that story,” Milton interrupted.

“You’re no fun,” Landon said. “I’d be the one in trouble, not you. You made me stop.”

“But I didn’t tell Gordon. Truth, my friend. You know Gordon’s response to disassembling, and I’ve had more than enough of the cane today.”

“Me too,” Gordon said softly. “Steve, Blade, are you two all right? You’re being quiet.”

Steve moved into Joshua, nearly stepping on the top’s shoes. “Better than this morning, sir.”

“Good boy.” Gordon gently kissed Steve’s forehead. “We’re all here for you. Do you understand that now?”

“Yes, sir. I’m sorry for causing this much trouble.”

“Don’t dwell on it. I don’t expect you to repeat your mistake, but it’s over now.”

“He won’t,” Joshua said, running his fingers through Steve’s hair. “I gave you sufficient reminders, didn’t I?” Josh said in a half teasing tone.

“I’m going to be copying the college handbook until the new year,” Steve muttered, a trace of a normal college guy’s exasperation in his voice. I think I’m grounded to infinity, and I’ve got two more spankings coming.” Steve dropped his eyes to the ground in embarrassment at the word spanking.

“We all understand. There’s no need to be embarrassed,” Joshua said gently.

“I got hammered this morning. Milton even took my car keys and rail pass,” Sheldon chimed in.

“Ouch,” Jer said.

“Yeah, welcome to house arrest. At least my brother will be there. Munchkin gets his dues for once. I’m sure he’s grounded to within an inch of his life. Illegal activity and all.”

“Sheldon, stop it! You little shit.” Blade turned toward the counter, his face beet red.

“Sheldon, corner, now,” Milton said, advancing on Sheldon as if he might swat him.

“I’m going. I was only teasing. What’s the big deal?”

“You think about it and tell me.”

Jer and Josh’s kitchen was painted a sunny yellow. A color Sheldon decided on close inspection that he detested and clashed badly with his hair. The corner wasn’t the worst place to be, but Sheldon was tired of being in trouble today. He wanted Milton’s arms around him. Why wasn’t his brother in the corner? He was the one who cursed. 

“Can I come out, please,” Sheldon pleaded, giving Milton his best puppy dog look. Sheldon didn’t even get an answer; Milton just pointed back at the corner. Sheldon kicked the skirting board in frustration.

Sheldon felt a hand on his back. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you. Milton’s trying hard to ignore you, but if you damage the wall, he’ll do something,” Landon said calmly.

“It’s not fair. Why am I in trouble and not Blade?”

“Would you ask this question if he wasn’t your brother?”

“What do you mean?”

“He was spanked for the first time today. Should you be teasing him?”

“No,” Sheldon muttered, “but he was nasty to me.”

“Milton’s talking to him. Milton’s not going to tolerate sibling rivalry. I’d think it’d pay to remember that.” Landon rubbed the back of Sheldon’s neck. “Be good. I’ve seen you do it.”

“Thanks, Landon,” Sheldon said after a moment.

“Any time. I’ll let Milton know you’ve settled down.”

Sheldon watched the yellow paint. He hoped Milton would come over soon. Sheldon could smell the food and hear the clink of plates and occasional laughter. He jerked forward when he felt a sharp nip on the back of his neck. A hand snaked around him, stroked his chest, and disappeared.

“Are you ready to come out of the corner, my beautiful boy?”

“Milton, how’d you sneak up on me?”

“You were lost in thought. Come on; let’s get some lunch. I love you.” Milton kissed Sheldon firmly on the lips, letting his tongue slip between the parted lips before pulling away.”

“I love you too, but we’re in public.”

“A very safe public, and I just took a caning. I’m feeling young and daring.”

“You have to be feeling as sore as hell.”

“That too,” Milton smiled. “I need a distraction. Let’s eat and get home.”

Sheldon grinned. He had a good idea what was going to go on behind closed doors. They’d be dodging the red spots and the stripes, but it would still be fun.