Revelations at an Exhibition
Tim woke up to Travis’ phone playing music. He recognized it as Travis’ alarm clock and nudged Travis’ neck with his nose. He knew Travis wanted to get up early because he had promised Mr. Bedford that he’d help set up for the art exhibition. Tim wanted to just lay there with his nose nuzzled in Travis’ neck, but nudged him once more and whispered, “Travis, your alarm is going off.” Travis reached for his phone without opening his eyes as he groaned at the intrusion. He was comfortable nuzzled back against Tim’s warm, naked chest with Tim’s semi-rigid pole in the crease between his cheeks. He fumbled to turn off the alarm, finally opening his eyes so he could hit the correct spot to shut off the alarm. He felt Tim’s breath on his neck and leaned his head back further, then felt a gentle kiss on his exposed neck. He smiled and said, “Sorry it woke you up first, Tim. You can go back to sleep if you want.” Tim kissed Travis just under his right ear this time, then said quietly, “Maybe I will when you leave but can we just cuddle here for a bit before you leave?” Travis turned and they kissed softly and then Travis laid his head against Tim’s neck and said, “I’m really nervous about today. I hope things go well for Jerome. He really paints well.” Tim asked, “What about you? You haven’t even told me what you were spending all your time at the gallery on.” Travis said, “Mr. Bradford wanted us to keep it a secret until the opening today. Taylor said he almost let it slip once. I’ll tell you this much, but you can’t tell anyone else. Taylor’s excited because Jerome is letting his father display some of his work. He’s never done that before. Mr. Bradford is encouraging me to major in arts when we go to college. I’ve heard they have a pretty good program here, though not as good as their engineering and sciences. I’m thinking maybe graphic design or something like that.” Tim said, “Well that star-like design you did on this furniture is fire.” Travis replied, “It was your idea in the first place though.” Tim said, “Yeah, but you made it happen. I can’t believe Granpa Henry wants to trademark it.” Travis said, “I like the idea Taylor came up with. The TnT thing. I think maybe we should do the TnT over the star symbol.” Tim smiled, “I think that would be so fire as a trademark.” Travis said, “Yeah, but we have to get through college before we consider opening a furniture business. By then, we may have changed our minds, though I really enjoy designing it.” Travis then kissed Tim once more and said, “I need to get dressed. I need to go to my house and grab my suit for the exhibition.” Tim asked, “You’re going to be wearing a suit?” Travis rolled his eyes, “Yeah, since I kind of have something displayed and I’m kind of representing the gallery’s exhibition.” Tim asked, “Wait! You have something displayed at the gallery?” Travis looked like a deer in headlights for a moment, then said, “Yeah, numb-nuts, the picture of my wall.” He then gave Tim another kiss before getting dressed. As Tim watched Travis dressing, he was thinking by that look Travis gave initially, that Travis was being evasive in his reply. Once Travis was dressed, he gave Tim a goodbye kiss and left.
Jeremy and Chris were surprised to see Tim in the kitchen when they got there. Jeremy said, “You’re up early.” As Tim whisked some eggs, he said, “Travis had to leave early. He needed to go home to get a suit and go over to the gallery to help get things ready.” Chris asked, “So, has he told you what he spent so much time there doing the past two weeks?” Tim said, “Nothing other than about the painting and the wall.” He kept his promise and didn’t say anything about Jerome’s paintings. Then Jeremy asked, “What’s that in the bowl over there?” Tim smiled, It’s leftover steak that Chris’ mom gave me to bring over. I already chopped it and separated out the fat and grizzle. She said they already had enough to make steak omelets for them, so it gave me an idea to make cheese steak omelets for us. I bought some provolone cheese, but if you want cheddar or American, I’ll have to use yours.” Jeremy grinned, “Tim, you don’t have to buy anything like that. Fuck, you and Travis just furnished a whole fucking bedroom downstairs! Why would you think you would need to buy provolone cheese for the omelets. I would have given you the money or bought it for you!” Tim looked at Jeremy and with watery eyes said, “You could have had me arrested. Instead, you, Chris and Carl took me in, and along with the Summers, have given me a roof over my head. You trusted me. You saved me from being homeless, and you saved me from Reverend Smith. I owe you so much.” Tim almost dropped the whisking tool he was using as Jeremy rushed over and hugged him into his arms. Chris rescued the whisker and continued whisking the eggs as Jeremy hugged Tim tightly while saying, “Tim. You don’t realize how much you’ve already given us. You’ve already paid us back many times over in your kindness, your bravery and your generousness. Our investment in you was well worth the risk.” Chris said, “I agree, and I’m sure mom and dad would too. They adore you, Tim. They see you as a second son.” Jeremy added, “You’ve never disappointed us, though you did scare the shit out of us when you took that risk with Reverend Smith.” With his face pressed against Jeremy’s chest, Tim said, “I had to do that.” Jeremy smiled and said, “No, you didn’t have to, but you did it anyway to make sure other kids wouldn’t suffer the same fate. Though it scared the shit out of all of us, it also made us so proud of you. Never forget that, Tim, and never lose that brave, caring part of yourself.” Tears were running down Tim’s cheeks, but there was a smile on his face as he said, “Thank you. I’ll do my best.” Chris said, “We know you will, Tim.” As Jeremy released Tim from their hug, Elijah walked into the room and saw the tears being wiped from Tim’s cheeks by Jeremy, “What’s wrong? Why are you crying, Tim?” Tim smiled, “Because I’m happy.” Elijah grinned and said, “Yeah, I always cry when I’m happy.” Chris grinned. Jeremy did as well and said, “We were just telling Tim how proud of him we all are.” Elijah grinned and grabbed Tim in a sudden hug. Tim yelped at the sudden action and Elijah said, “Fuckin’ damn straight we’re proud of you.” Tim giggled and said, “Ok, ok! Can I breath now?” Elijah laughed as he released Tim, “Sorry, but I had to get my hug in. You and Travis, both have made us proud, and I’m proud to have you as a friend.” Tim smiled and said, “Same”, then added, “Even if you are a goof sometimes.” Elijah grinned and tackled Tim to the floor and began tickling him, “So, I’m a goof, huh.” Tim screamed with laughter as he squirmed under Elijah’s assault. Jeremy and Chris laughed as well as they took over cooking breakfast. After a while, Elijah let Tim up and gave him another hug before asking, “What are you making for breakfast?” Chris said, “Actually, Tim started breakfast. We just stepped in while he was being hugged and tickled to death.” Elijah looked to Tim, “So, what are we having, Tim?” Tim smiled as he said, “I’m making cheese steak omelets. I shredded potatoes for hash browns and have bacon ready to air fry.” Elijah said, “Now you have my stomach growling. I’ll set the table. Where’s Travis?” Tim replied, “He had to get ready to go to the gallery to get ready for the exhibition.”
After breakfast, they did some chores around the house, then went out to do yard work. The grass had grown quickly after the week of nonstop rain they’d had. It was spring after all. Weeds were sprouting up everywhere as well. Jeremy was glad when Carl and Chuck arrived and pitched in. They finished just in time to clean up, change and then head to the park. Since Jerome and Travis weren’t there, it was fortunate Chuck and Jesse were available this week. After the game, they did go to The Flying None, but because of the exhibition, had only one drink before heading back to the house. They made some hot Italian sausage sandwiches for a late lunch or early dinner. There would be some finger food at the gallery, so they wouldn’t be starving by the end of the night. After they ate, Chris and Tim went home (The Summers) to get ready since neither had the clothes they needed at Jeremy and Carl’s place. Chuck had brought clothes with him that morning, so he and Carl got ready there.
Due to the nature of the art being displayed, this exhibition was beginning later than usual, at 4pm, and would end at 9pm. Chris and Tim arrived at 4pm sharp since Tim was anxious to get there for obvious reasons. Chris’ parents were right behind them, and they entered the gallery together. They were welcomed by Mr. Bradford, “Welcome to The Bradford Art Gallery. I hope you enjoy your visit. Geoffrey, could you escort our guests to where the food and drinks are and then give them the tour. I would give you the tour myself, but I have to greet other guests as they arrive.” Geoffrey smiled and said, “It’s good to see you again, Mr. and Mrs. Summers as well as Tim and Chris. I’m sure you’re anxious to see the new art we’re displaying this afternoon.” Tim said, “I can’t wait to see it.” Mrs. Summers said, “We’re all looking forward to it, Geoffrey. I’m surprised you remember our names, Geoffrey.” Mr. Summers said, “Yeah, I usually can’t remember someone’s name five minutes after meeting them, but I’ll remember their face five years later.” Geoffrey said, “I have a knack for recalling people’s names after meeting them, but I know many people who can’t recall them minutes later as you say, Mr. Summers.”
Geoffrey took them to the room where the finger food and drinks were first. They nibbled a bit, and Geoffrey served them each a glass of wine, including Tim after the Summers gave their ok. Geoffrey said, “I’m going to show you the usual pieces first though I know what you’re here to see.” Geoffrey gave a wry smile, then added, “We’ll then browse the works of our latest works by Jerome Allen. Finally, you’ll see the collaborative works of Jerome Allen and Travis Sterling.” Tim said, “I never knew Jerome’s last name until now. Did you just say works as in plural, Geoffrey?” Geoffrey just smiled, then said, “If you’ll bring your drinks and follow me.” They passed by a cordoned off section titled, The Bradford Collection, with the royal blue and red furniture that they had brought for the photo shoot of the wall. It also included knight armor and shields bearing the Bradford Crest. There were also portraits of Bradford ancestors hanging on the three walls of the inset area. Chris said, “This furniture looks a lot different here. I mean it looked great in the basement, but…” Tim finished his sentence, “In with the rest of this, it fits the era it was made in.” Chris said, “Exactly.” Mrs. Summers said, “I’m surprised Mr. Bradford risked bringing it to the house just for some photos.” Mr. Bradford said, “I agree. He must have really been impressed with the wall and Jerome’s painting.” Geoffrey said, “He was, indeed impressed.”
They moved on to the next room, which was large, about thirty feet by forty. Paintings by various artists were displayed on the walls with cushioned benches for people to sit in and admire any painting they chose to. Some of the paintings were from artists they recognized, others were unknown to them, but all were of high quality as Geoffrey pointed out some and explained the artist’s background and era. Most were over a hundred years old, but some were from artists living today. The next room was the same as the first, except that all the paintings were over a hundred years old. Some were even older and were cordoned off so no one could touch them.
As Geoffrey escorted them to the next room, they saw Jerome talking to Travis. Tim called out, “Travis!”, and ran over to him. He almost embraced him before realizing Jerome was standing there. He stopped short, and said, “You look so professional. You too, Jerome.” Both grinned, then they heard Geoffrey clear his throat and ask, “Jerome and Travis, I’ll leave our guests in your hands, since this is your art and your friends. I’ll go out to assist with more guests as they arrive. Mr. and Mrs. Summers, Tim, and Chris, I leave you in their hands. I’ll see you all a little later.”
Once Geoffrey left, Mr. Summers asked, “So, Jerome, are these paintings all yours?” Jerome’s face changed a shade as he nodded. Travis grinned and said, “They are. Aren’t they great?” The four began looking around at the numerous paintings of various scenes, some of which were familiar. Tim called out, “Chris! Look at this one.” As Chris walked over, he saw the basketball court with guys in different positions as if they were playing at that very moment, as if a photograph of a moment in time. Chris’ jaw dropped as Tim said, “Look, it’s you and Aaron. There’s Mike and Jerome with his back turned. Shit, Jeremy and Carl too! Abe and Joe. This is so cool.” Mrs. Summers said from behind them, “That’s really amazing!” Mr. Summers said, “It is. Just think, Chris, you’ve been immortalized.” Chris turned to them, smiling, “It’s like we’re frozen in time.” Tim said, “This is so fire! Jerome, you’re the bomb. You even got Jeremy’s facial expression down as he’s shooting that jump shot!” Chris said, “I know, right. It’s perfect. Wait until Jer sees this.” Jerome just stood there with what looked like an embarrassed grin. Travis grinned at him and said, “I told you.” Then Tim asked, “So, where’s the sunset painting and the picture of the wall?” Travis’ grin suddenly faded as he turned a little pink.
Just then, Taylor entered with Jeremy, Elijah, Carl, Chuck, The Reynolds, and Mr. and Mrs. Sterling. Taylor said, “If you don’t mind, could you wait for these guests to see these painting before we go into the big reveal?” Jerome nodded and Travis nervously did as well. He seemed to go from pink to pale though as he said, “Dad, mom, I didn’t know you were coming.” Mr. Sterling smiled, and Mrs. Sterling said, “You thought we were going to miss this? Not a chance, dear.” As Chuck browsed the paintings, he said, “This is some good shit, Jerome. My man can paint.” Then he saw the painting of the basketball game and said, “Oh, shit. You gotta see this, Carl and Jeremy. Holy fu…I mean, wow! He’s got you down pat, Jeremy!” Geoffrey entered with about twenty more people who seemed dressed to the hilt, some with children, none younger than about twelve, but even they were dressed as if attending a wedding. Even though the guys were dressed in nice clothes, some of them began feeling out of place. One elderly guy, dressed in a grey three-piece suit was looking at the paintings, when he turned, he smiled and approached Jerome, “Jerome, it’s so good to see you. The paintings are magnifico! So, Phillipe finally talked you into letting him show your work. I’m so happy for you.” Jerome smiled and said, “Thank you, Mr. Scavinni. I’m glad you came.” Mr. Scavinni said, “I tol you, call me Antony. I call you Jerome, you call me Antony, capisce?” Jerome smiled and said, “Yes, sir, Antony.” Mr. Scavinni smiled, then looked at Travis and asked, “And who might this cute face belong to?” Jerome smiled and said, “This is my friend, Travis. We play basketball together most Saturdays, but we collaborated on a couple things together. We’re about to go into the next room where we’ll reveal them.” Tim overheard the them part, and once again he wondered what else Travis and Jerome had worked on together. As Tim approached, Mr. Scainni held out his hand to Travis, “It’s nice to meet you, Travis. I’d love to see the work you’ve done with this amazing artist standing next to you. He’s too much in the denial to realize his talent, this one. So, you are an artist, too?” Travis shook Mr. Scavinni’s hand, somewhat in a daze as this whirlwind of a man who’s accent was obviously Italian, continued to talk. Once they broke their handshake, Travis realized the man stopped talking and was waiting for his answer. The man grinned at him and asked, “What, the cat got your tongue?” Travis glanced at Jerome who was grinning at him, then back to the intimidating Italian guy, “Um, I um, I painted the wall.” Mr. Scavinni gave him an odd look, as if he wasn’t sure if Travis was joking with him or not, “You painted the wall, eh?” Travis was intimidated by the man. He was standing next to Jerome, a real artist, and felt Mr. Scavinno was comparing him to Jerome. He said, “Yes sir. I painted the wall, and everyone seemed to make a big deal out of it. Then Mr. Bradford asked me to help Jerome. I’m not an artist, Mr. Scavinni. Mr. Scavinni smiled and said, “If Phillipe asked you to help Jerome, it means he see something in you. He no just pick wall painter to assist Jerome. I see your wall, then I see if you are artist, ok? Travis’ head was spinning as he said, “Yes sir.” He was relieved when Tim stepped beside him. Mr. Scavinni smiled at Tim and said, “Another cute face. Don’t tell me, Jerome, another collaborator?” Jerome smiled and said, “No, Antony, unless you include furniture design an art. This is Tim. He’s Travis’ best friend. They made a set of bedroom furniture for their friend’s house. It’s amazing. All real wood with a unique design.” Mr. Scavinni held out his hand to Tim and said, “Nice to meet you, Tim. Yes, I think furniture design can be a form of art, if it is crafted well. Maybe I get to see it sometime, yes?” Tim shook his hand and said nervously, “Um, I guess. Sure.” Just then Mr. Bradford’s voice called out, “Antony! I didn’t realize you had arrived. I’m glad you could come.” The two men hugged and as Mr. Bradford stepped back, he announced, “I hope everyone has had an opportunity to view Jerome’s paintings.” Suddenly, a young voice yelled, “Mom and dad! That’s the guy in the painting shooting the basketball, and those two are in the painting too!” The woman grabbed her son’s arm and said to him, “Shhhh! Don’t be rude, Brian. He probably just looks like him.” A man, likely the boy’s father was looking at the painting and then back to Jeremy and finally said, “You do look exactly like the guy shooting the basketball in this painting.” Jerome broke in, “It is him, as well as a few of the other people here.” The guy said, “You’re the artist who painted this? It’s amazingly realistic. I can picture the ball going through the basket. Nothing but net, am I right?” Jeremy smiled and began to reply, but Jerome interrupted and said, “Yes, nothing but net. It was the first time Jeremy and Carl played ball with us. We were short-handed and we asked them if they’d join us. I remember that very moment Jeremy took that shot.” Jeremy looked incredulous, “You remembered that moment and just painted it from memory?” Jerome smiled as he nodded to Jeremy. Jeremy smiled back, amazed at the fact that Jerome could take a snapshot in his mind and later paint it. Carl nudged him and said, “And I thought you were observant.” Jeremy grinned wider at Carl’s remark. Then the room grew loud with chatter and people started looking more critically at the paintings. A few asked for Jerome’s autograph. Some even asked for Jeremy’s, including Mr. Scavinni who said to Jeremy, “Just think of the value for the person who ask for Mona Lisa autograph.” Jeremy just grinned at the ridiculousness of the idea of Mona Lisa giving an autograph as he signed the exhibition pamphlet Mr. Scavinni handed him. The kid was getting the autograph of everyone he could find that was in that painting. The guys were amused but happy to comply. After everyone settled down once more, Mr. Bradford said, “Well, this was one of the most lively exhibitions I’ve ever held here in this gallery, and most of the painting that were on sale already have had multiple bids, so it’s been very successful in that aspect as well. I appreciate everyone’s enthusiasm this evening. It’s time to move to the last of the exhibits. The first of which is only a partial because the base of the art is a fixed wall somewhere in the United States. If you will all follow me, please.
Everyone crowded into the large room behind Mr. Bradford. It was very dimly lit except for some light in front of Mr. Bradford and as he turned to face everyone, he stepped to the side where a covered easel stood with the light shining down on it. Mr. Bradford pulled the cover from the easel revealing the painting Jerome had given Jeremy and Carl for the wall which Travis had painted. Everyone gathered around the painting to look at it. One woman gasped and said, “It’s beautiful. Another woman said to her husband, “We need to bid on this. It looks so real.” Mr. Bradford said, “I’m sorry, ma’am. This one is not for sale, and you’ll soon see why.” Mr. Bradford then spoke to the packed room, “This piece was painted after the artist saw something which moved him. Something which began as an innocent task as simple as painting a wall in a room. Yet the person who took the task upon himself saw something more than just a wall before him. He may not even realized himself at the time, but what he saw was a blank easel made of smooth concrete. We see new artists every day creating murals on exterior walls, some is just graffiti, others are works of art. While I can’t bring you the wall, what I’m about to show to you is a high-resolution photograph of this wall.” The light on Jerome’s painting dimmed, as another brightened on another covered easel. Mr. Bradford pulled the cover off the easel, revealing a four foot by three foot picture of the wall Travis had painted. There were more gasps from different parts of the room. Mr. Bradford smile and glanced at Travis who was looking around, amazed at the reaction his wall was receiving. Mr. Bradford the said, “Upon seeing this ‘wall’, the artist was inspired to paint the piece I first showed you. You see, he had a place in mind he thought was its home. As are most true artists, he paints by inspiration and not for money. He brought his painting to where he knew was its home, and it was received as the gift it was intended, and everyone knew it had found its home.” The light on the picture of the wall dimmed and another brightened on yet another covered easel. Mr. Bradford pulled off the cover to reveal the wall with the unframed painting hanging on it. Many more gasps. A man said, “That’s amazing! It’s perfect. Where is this wall? I’d like to see it in person.” Others agreed. Mr. Bradford said, “Unfortunately, I’ve given my word that I would never reveal its location, but I can tell you it is located somewhere in the United States. I did have to travel some distance to see it myself, and to obtain these photos.” Some laughter followed. Henry, Jeremy and Carl were glad to hear him say the last part. Even though it would throw off anyone who might want to locate it, Mr. Bradford said ‘some distance’, which was not a lie. One guy asked, “So, out west? Hawaii?” Mr. Bradford didn’t indulge him, instead, he said, “These are some pictures we took when we added some of the Bradford Collection to the room. It fit nicely. Too bad it couldn’t remain, but from what I’ve heard, they replaced it with some very nice things.” He pulled covers off several other easels, revealing the wall with the two different sets of furniture from The Bradford Collection in the foreground. People began walking around and looking at the painting as well as the pictures, but mostly going between the picture of the wall, then the painting and then to the picture of the painting on the wall. The lighting adjusted so each of the revealed pieces could be viewed by the guests. Mr. Bradford took this time to talk to Jerome and Travis. He noticed Tim standing next to Travis smiling at him proudly. Mr. Bradford first said to Jerome, “See, I told you, Jerome. You’re very talented. Every one of the paintings that you’ve agreed to allow me to put up for bid are receiving extremely high bids. It is a testament to your talent.” Jerome smiled, “Thank you, Phillip. Taylor put a lot of pressure on me and kept insisting on it.” Mr. Bradford grinned, “That’s my son. He adores your work, but he adores you even more.” Jerome’s smile widened, “I adore him more. He’s my world.” Mr. Bradford then turned to Travis, “So, Travis, what do you think so far?” Travis said, “I’m a little overwhelmed by all this, sir.” Mr. Bradford then asked, “Are you ready for the finale?” Travis absently grabbed Tim’s hand and said, “I’m nervous as fu.. I’m really nervous, but I guess I’m as ready as I’ll ever be, sir.” Tim squeezed Travis’ hand back, letting him know he was there for him. Travis turned to him and saw Tim giving him a reassuring smile.” Mr. Bradford smiled and then announced, “If I can have everyone’s attention once more. We have just a few more items to show you. Mr. Bradford walked to the opposite side of the room where several more covered easels were. There was also a black curtain covering a large section of the wall. Mr. Bradford began, “When my son, Taylor and his artist boyfriend, Jerome Allen first told me about this wall, I was curious. Taylor may be a bit extravagant, but he knows art. Jerome also knows art, even though he’s a little too critical of his own talents. They showed me a photo of the wall, and I was intrigued. When I saw it in person, I was convinced, whoever had painted it had some talent and a potential for great things. I convinced him to work with Jerome and I two weeks prior to today.” Mr. Bradford grinned, “It was as difficult convincing Jerome as it was in convincing Travis. It was only because it involved Travis that I was able to convince Jerome. I think once he sees the bids placed on the pieces he was willing to part with, he might be convinced.” Taylor rolled his eyes and said, “I doubt it”, which drew laughter. A guy toward the back yelled, “I’m sure once he sees my bid, he’ll open his eyes.” Most people turned to see who had said it. The man was dressed in a three-piece grey suit. He had greying hair, with a small grey mustache and goatee.
After everyone’s attention was back on Mr. Bradford, he continued, “Jerome and I worked with Travis on the basics at first, such as brush strokes and nuances, then we took him out to the countryside and had him draw a sketch.” Mr. Bradford uncovered the first easel. It was a sketch of a meadow with blades of grass that you could almost see moving in the breeze. Mr. Bradford then said, “When we got back to the studio, we had Travis sit down and put his sketch to canvass.” Mr. Bradford uncovered the next easel, and the sketch came to life in beautiful spring colors of the meadow and all its flowers, grasses and flowing creek. A meadow lark, yellow finch and robin were visible to those close by. The crowd drew a collective breath and then clapping erupted. Travis turned red as Tim smiled with pride at him and squeezed his hand tighter. Mr. Bradford reminded everyone, “This was the first canvass Travis has ever attempted. Impressive, isn’t it?” There were murmurs in the crowd in agreement. Several people came up to take a closer look, and Mr. Bradford said, “Everyone will have an opportunity to see these up close once I conclude.” Once he said that, the crowd seemed to calm down. The a woman asked, “Is that one for sale?” A guy called out, “I’m willing to place a bid!” Mr. Bradford glanced at Travis who looked like a deer in headlights, then he said, “I’ll have to let you know. Right now, it is not.”
Mr. Bradford stepped to the next easel and said, “This next piece may surprise, even shock you with its capture of emotion.” As Mr. Bradford uncovered it, Tim inhaled loudly, and tears began streaming down his cheeks. The crowd had a similar but less severe reaction. Jeremy moved up and put his arms around Tim while Chris and Elijah both put a comforting hand on his shoulders. The painting was a boy in anguish, surrounded by bushes and curled into a ball on the ground. It was Tim, depicted after he’d been kicked out by his father and finding a place to sleep in the park. Travis squeezed Tim’s hand tightly after seeing his reaction, and said, “I’m sorry. I should have warned you.” Tim just stared at the painting, and remembered that sad moment in his life and the raw emotions that he felt at the time. A kid was heard saying, “Mom, I think the guy in the painting is the one crying up there.” The mother was heard saying, “Shhh! It is, but you need to not draw attention to him. It must have been a very bad time for him.” The kid said, “He looks so sad there.” Tim’s weren’t the only tears flowing in the room at that moment.
Mr. Bradford then said, “I think this piece had the emotional impact that it was meant to have. I hope this next piece will have the opposite.” He uncovered the last easel. It was once again of Tim. This one depicted a Tim full of joy, next to a shiny jeep with friends looking on, smiling, Carl, Jeremy, Chris, Elijah and Chuck, and in the background holding hands, stood Henry and Martha Reynolds. Tim’s tears stopped flowing and a beautiful smile crossed his lips as he recalled the moment he saw the rebuilt jeep. His now. Tim looked at Travis with his smile and squeezed his hand back. The crowd was once again clapping.
Mr. Bradford said, “One face, two very different emotions. One of anguish. The other of pure joy. I have one more piece to show you before we allow you to browse through the exhibits. This is a collaborative effort by Jerome Allen and Travis Sterling. I hope you like it. It’s called Sunrise!” Taylor pulled a cord, and the curtain opened revealing a large painting of a sunrise. It was a counterpoint to the wall’s depiction of a sunset and incorporated and fused the two pieces of Travis’ wall and Jerome’s painting. The crowd gasped as they looked on. Travis caught Jerome’s eye, and they smiled proudly at each other. The crowd once again erupted in applause. As the applause faded, Mr. Bradford said, “I want to thank you all for coming. Please feel free to have some food and drinks while you browse through the exhibits. Taylor, Geoffrey and I will be happy to answer any questions you might have as well as our honored guests, Jerome and Travis. We’ll let you know by text if you had the winning bid on anything and when you may pick it up.”
As the crowd dispersed into different rooms to look at the exhibits or to grab some food or a drink, Mr. Bradford smiled and said to Jerome and Travis, “I want to thank you both for making this exhibition a huge success. This has been the largest crowd this gallery has ever seen, and I’ve had some high-quality art come through here.’ Jerome smiled and lowered his head, “Thank you for your persistence, Phillip. I still think of it as my hobby, but I guess people do like it.” Travis said, “I was caught off guard by everyone’s reaction to my paintings”, then he turned to Tim, “I’m so sorry I didn’t warn you ahead of time, but I wanted to surprise you.” Tim smiled, “You surprised me alright, but I forgive you. It just brought back the memory of that first night. I felt so alone and helpless.” A woman behind Tim said, “That painting surely says alone and helpless. I’m sorry that you had to go through that period in your life, but the other painting shows a much happier you, full of joy. I hope the second one is where you are now.” Tim smiled and said, “It is. I’m now surrounded by so many caring people. I don’t think I’ve ever been happier. Thank you.” The woman then asked Travis, “Are either of these for sale?” Travis shook his head, and said, “No, I’m sorry, ma’am. Those two are too personal to me.” Mr. Bradford asked, “What about the first one, the meadow, Travis?” Travis considered it for a moment and then asked, “Do you think it would even get a bid? It was my first attempt.” Jerome said, “I wish my first attempt had produced anything near what you did with that, Travis.” Mr. Bradford said, “You had to have heard a few of the people asking if it was for sale, Travis. I’m sure it will get a decent price.” Travis smiled, “I actually didn’t hear them, Mr. Bradford. I’ve been in a daze most of the night.” The people around him laughed, then Travis said, “I guess you could sell that one.” Travis saw his parents behind Mr. Bradford and said, “Thanks for coming, mom and dad.” Mr. Bradford stepped aside, and Travis’ parents wrapped him in a tight hug. His mom had tears in her eyes as she said, “We are so damn proud of you, Travis.” Travis’ dad said, “Travis, you floored us with that wall, but this, this! You hit the ball out of the park. My god, boy, the two paintings of Tim had my head spinning. You almost had me crying after Mr. Bradford revealed the first one and then I did shed a tear after the second, of course the second was a tear of joy remembering how happy that jeep made Tim. Speaking of Tim, how are you doing, kid? I know seeing those two paintings must have had you on a roller coaster of emotions.” Tim gave a half smile and said, “Yeah. It caught me off guard, but after thinking about it, I realized that Travis knows me pretty well and understood what I went through those many months ago. He’s been my anchor since then.” They squeezed each other’s hand, and the Sterlings gave them both a hug before saying they were going to go get a drink.
As the exhibition came to a close, and Mr. Bradford, Taylor, Geoffrey, Jerome and Travis thanked the guests as they filtered out, Taylor grinned at Travis every time he looked his way. Travis wasn’t sure why. After the last guests left, with the exception of Tim, Jeremy, Chris and Elijah, Mr. Bradford grinned at Travis and said, “I’ll have a check for you on Monday for the sale of your painting, Travis.” Travis said, “Thank you, Mr. Bradford. I’ll put it toward college, maybe buy a book or two. I’ve made up my mind that I’m going to major in Arts, but now I’m not sure what I’ll focus on. I was thinking of Graphic design or architecture, but now I’m not so sure.” Mr. Bradford chuckled, then said, “I’m sure you’ll figure it out, Travis, but you’ll be able to buy more than a book or two with the check.” Travis looked at him and said, “Really? I thought maybe fifty bucks or something like that.” Mr. Bradford, Geoffrey, and Jerome all started laughing. Taylor just grinned as he watched, shifting his gaze between Travis and Tim. Travis wasn’t sure why they were laughing, and asked, “What? Why are you laughing.” Mr. Bradford stopped laughing and said, “Well, Mr. Jennings, the guy in the grey three-piece suit is a big art collector, and he found himself in a bidding war over your painting.” Travis said, “Oh, I’m sorry. I don’t want people fighting over my painting.” Mr. Bradford said, “Yes, you do, Travis.” Travis asked, “Why would they want something that was my first attempt at painting to begin with?” Mr. Bradford put his hands on Travis’ shoulders and said, “Travis, you’re very talented and show promise to be a great artist. Now this may or may not come to pass. That being said, do you know what the first works of de Vinci, Picasso or Cezanne would get, not even though they were their first works but because they were.” Travis grinned and said, “Yeah, but they’re masters, geniuses even.” Mr. Bradford smiled, “Yes, but who knew they’d become so famous after their first works? Had someone bought them at that time, they could have made a fortune on them later.” Tim said, “So they bid on Travis’ painting as a potential investment?” Mr. Bradford said, “Precisely.” Travis asked, “So, exactly how much will this check be?” Mr. Bradford said, “Fifteen thousand dollars.” Travis’ jaw dropped, “They bid that high on my painting? Oh, my God!” Mr. Bradford said, “No, they bid thirty thousand, but the gallery gets fifty percent of it. That’s what you signed when you agreed to do this.” Travis smiled and said, “I forgot, but that’s more than ok with me, Mr. Bradford. I can’t believe I just made fifteen thousand dollars in one night.” Mr. Bradford said, “Jerome made over a hundred thousand dollars.” Jerome said, “Yeah, but that was for eleven paintings, but still, pretty surprising. I did get twelve grand for one of mine though.” Geoffrey said, “Well, I’m going to call it a night. I’m glad we had a great night, but I’m beat. I’ll see you on Monday, Mr. Bradford. It was good to see all of you tonight.” Everyone said goodnight to Geoffrey and then Jeremy said, “I guess it’s time for us to head home as well.” Tim said, “I’m going to ride back with Travis.” Taylor smiled knowingly and then said, “Are you about ready too, babe?” Jerome said, “Yeah, it has been a long night. Let’s go home.”
On the way back to Jeremy and Carl’s, Travis kept apologizing to Tim about not preparing him for the two paintings. Tim grabbed his thigh and said, “You don’t need to apologize, Travis. Once I thought about it, you got it. You knew exactly how I felt that first night. That was exactly how I felt in that painting. It was also how I felt when I saw the jeep. I love you so much, Travis. You get me.” Travis said, “I do get you, Tim and I want all of you. I also want to give you all of me.”
Tim and Travis arrived about fifteen minutes after Jeremy, Chris and Elijah at the house. When they stepped inside, Elijah was waiting for them with a drink for each of them, “Congratulations, Travis. You were a star tonight.” Travis blushed and said, “I’m still in denial about the whole thing.” They went in and joined Jeremy and Chris, receiving hugs all around then sat down to finish their drinks. Elijah looked at Tim and said, “When I saw that painting of you under that bush, I just wanted to crawl inside there and hug you so tight. I had an idea of what you went through with your father and Smith, but Travis’ painting brought it to life, made it real.” Jeremy said, “I agree. You two look like you’re about to fall asleep. Don’t let us keep you up.” Travis said, “Thanks, Jeremy. This has been a long day. Ready to head down, Tim?” Tim finished his drink and said, “Yeah, let’s go to bed.”
As they made their way to the bedroom, Tim stopped Travis and said, “Did I tell you how hot you look in that suit?” Travis smiled and said, “I think so, but it still makes me hard the second time.” Tim looked at the obvious bulge in Travis’ slacks, “Maybe we should get those off before you stain them.” Travis replied, “I’m not opposed to that as long as I can save you from staining your own dress slacks.” Tim grinned and said, “Deal.” They slowly undressed each other, kissing in between and were soon down to their precum-soaked briefs. They shed them as well as they climbed onto the bed in a sixty-nine position and devoured each other’s cocks. They were soon fingering each other, and when Tim felt like he was getting close, he pushed Travis off him and asked, “Will you make love to me tonight, babe?” Travis smiled and said, “I would love to. I want to make love to you for the rest of our lives.”
Tim moved onto his back and raised his legs as Travis positioned himself between them and smiled down at his boyfriend. He rubbed his precum-drooling cock up and down between Tim’s buns, spreading his slick and lubing the tight rosebud, preparing it for entry. Tim smiled up at Travis as he pressed the tip of his cock to its target. Travis locked his eyes to Tim’s as he pressed inside. Travis searched for any sign of discomfort as he slowly sank inside his lover’s love canal. He went slowly even though the tight warmth made him want to plunge inside with abandon. Once Travis had bottomed out, he leaned down and they kissed, swapping tongues in each other’s mouths. Then Travis began moving in and out, raking across Tim’s prostate while Tim moaned in ecstasy beneath him. They weren’t in a frantic fuck, they were making love, methodically but passionately. They knew each other, understood each other, and unconditionally loved each other. When they broke their kiss, they didn’t break their gaze into each other’s eyes, into each other’s souls. They became one. When their lovemaking reached its climax, the came together, Tim coating their bodies in his seed between them, Travis coating Tim’s inner walls. Tim smiled as he felt the pressure and warmth of Travis’ baby-makers and said, “Paint me a masterpiece, my love.”
End of Chapter 87
