The days after Bret's birthday passed both quickly and slowly. The mixture of the passage of time was due to the fact that five men were working double, sometimes even triple shifts at their jobs. It was necessary so they could all have ten days off at the end of July; for their camping trip. The hours at work went as slow as race between a snail and turtle, while the few hours Bret and Adam had or the Helmsley's had together went as fast as two starving cheetah's chasing the same prey. The thing that kept them all going was the thought of eight days, spent just camping and being totally relaxed, lazy and most important, away from patients, fires and smart phones.
What little time the men had at home together was partly spent getting things ready for the trip. It had been decided they would hike, with the aid of two pack horses, up to a spot Shawn loved on the Platte River. It was isolated and away from large, crowded campgrounds. Once, a few years ago, a Park Ranger had been brought to the Emergency Room with a broken arm and leg. He'd been injured during a winter search and rescue. He and Shawn got to talking and became friends. The Ranger, Alberto De Rio, told Shawn about the "hidden" paradise along the Platte. It had quickly become Shawn's favorite place.
They would drive to the stables, pack the horses, then the stable master would drive the men and beasts to a "drop" point that was about a two-hour hike from the camp site. He would return in eight days and pick them all up again. Hunter liked the idea as it gave him a safe place to park his vehicle while they were gone.
It was finally the day before the trip. The vacation was for ten days from today, July twenty-fifth and ending on Sunday, August third. The first day and the last day would be spent at home. The first day to get ready, the last day to recover before they all went back to work.
Wade had asked Adam to come to his new apartment and help him pack. He wanted to make sure he did it right, the Englishman didn't want to look foolish. Bret gave Adam permission, as long as Shawn went with him. The Captain trusted Adam, but not Barrett. Bret's protectiveness made Adam smile, he'd never had a lover that worried about him before, he found he liked the feeling.
Barrett had moved into a beautiful penthouse apartment in a twenty-six story building, three blocks from the hospital. The apartment had been bought and paid for by Wade's father. The condo had cost "Lord" Barrett nearly eight hundred thousand American dollars. It was an investment. In five years, when his son returned to England, he would sell the apartment and hopefully make a bit of profit. Barrett senior knew people moving to the States would be his best hope for a resale.
When the door bell rang, Wade smiled. He was looking forward to spending some alone time with Adam. Wade was still working on his plan to "dethrone" Adam at work. He'd taken great steps in the last few days. In order to reacquaint himself with doing actual shift work, Doctor Heyman had worked in the ER for the last week. Wade nearly fell over himself getting on the man's good side. It was humiliating, but it paid off. Heyman often chose Wade to help him over Adam. It made Shawn very suspicious.
When Wade answered his door, he was surprised and disappointed; Shawn was standing next to the blond doctor. There was an unreadable expression on Shawn's face. Wade wondered, was Shawn suspicious of him? Well, he had eight days to "win" Shawn's confidence and break Adam's. He smiled and greeted his guests.
"Hello, Adam, Shawn. So glad you're here. Please, do come in," Wade said politely as he stepped aside to let the doctor and nurse into his new home.
"Thanks, Wade. I thought we could use Shawn's expertise. Wade, this place is beautiful! How did you find the time to move and decorate?" Adam asked as he looked around the beautifully furnished and decorated living room, he was truly impressed.
"Father hired a decorator. He and the movers did it all. I didn't even have to hang up my clothes. Come on, I'll give you a tour then we'll have tea," Wade was, again very polite. He showed the two men his new home. Aside from the living room, which had a large balcony, that had a wonderful view of the mountains, there were several other rooms. There was a large kitchen with a pantry and Butler's quarters. Wade's father was sending a butler from England. He would arrive the week after the camping trip. Wade hadn't been too happy about the butler, but his father was insistent.
The apartment had three bedrooms. One had been turned into an office, the second was a guest room. It was now being used to store and prepare the camping gear. The third was Wade's master bedroom. It too had a mountain view balcony, along with a huge master bathroom. There was also a full guest bathroom and another half bath between the kitchen and living room. The place was done in relaxing earth tones and was beautiful.
"This is quite the show place, Wade. Congratulations, maybe you could host the next hospital get together, after Adam. He's hosting in August, not long after we get back," Shawn said in a polite tone. He and Adam were now sitting on the balcony off the living room, while Wade served tea. After he finished, he too sat down at the wrought iron, umbrella covered table on the balcony.
"Thank you. I have to admit, father did it right. Of course, he'll sell the place when I go back. You both forget, I am not invited to attend the monthly social, only department heads and their assistants are invited. He couldn't wait to take Adam's place.
"Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot. Anyway, I've looked at the weather forecasts. Looks like we should be rain free, but up there, we'll still need thermals for the nights, especially along the river," Shawn said thoughtfully as he sipped his tea. He had another thought and continued. "Still, I'd pack at least a rain poncho. They are compact enough to go in a pocket. I've got extras so don't rush out and buy one. I have to agree Wade, this is a beautiful place. I couldn't live in an apartment though, I need a yard and open windows," Shawn said with another sip of tea.
"I thought about a house, but father said an apartment was a better investment. He plans on selling to someone over there. There is a list of ex-pats looking for places to live in the States. Thank you, Shawn. I appreciate the rain gear. By the way, what kind of wildlife are we likely to encounter? I don't have a weapon," Wade asked in a bit of a worried tone.
Shawn laughed a bit, "don't worry. I'll bring my gun. It's not hunting season, but we'll probably see deer, maybe sheep. Bears, only a slight chance. Our biggest worry will be snakes. That reminds me, when gathering wood or picking up rocks, kick them over first. Do not just reach down and pick something up. Hunter always carries anti-venom, but still, best to watch and avoid. Rattlers will be out with heat, Copperheads too. Could be Cotton Mouths, but I've never seen one," Shawn's tone was more serious. He knew Wade didn't have the experience in the woods like the rest of them.
"Glad you'll have your gun. Thanks also for the advice, I'll remember kick don't pick," the Englishman laughed at his own joke. They chatted a bit more about what to expect as they finished their tea.
"I'll wash these up for you. Shawn can help you better than I with the gear packing. Remember, we'll stop at the grocery store for fresh things and ice tomorrow morning," Adam said as he started to clear the tea-things.
"Ice won't last eight days. How will we keep things cold?" Wade asked the nurse as they headed to the guest room where Barrett had gathered his camping gear.
"Ice will last about three days. The Platte River will be our cooler. I have a water proof bag, oh you'll see. Now, let's get you packed," Shawn said as he rubbed his stubbly chin.
While Shawn might not have been one of his favorite people, Wade was soon glad the nurse was there to help him. Shawn made rapid work of putting all Wade's gear into his new backpack. Wade was duly impressed. Shawn also took the time to explain why each thing went in a certain order.
Shawn then spied a guitar in the corner of the room. He was a bit surprised, "Um... Wade is that for looks or do you play?"
Wade hung his head a bit sheepishly, "No. I play. I learned as a kid. It's kind of my escape from reality."
"Then bring it along, if you want. Bless Adam, he loves to sing around the campfire, but singing is not among his talents. Music is nice. Hunter has a secret too, he plays a wicked harmonica, so does Bret. A guitar would be a nice touch. But, don't feel forced, hobbies can be very personal," Shawn said with a soft smile. He thought it might help Wade break some ice if he brought the guitar.
"That might be okay. Playing in front of your friends isn't so bad. Hunter plays the harmonica? I can't wait to hear that. I'll bring the guitar," Wade was interrupted as Adam came into the room.
"All washed and dried. I didn't put the tea set away, not sure where it goes. Wow, all packed? See I told you Shawn's the best. At least Bret knows almost as much. Oh Shawn, I keep forgetting to ask, will we see Alberto? Ricardo asked me to give him a letter. I wish those two would just... do it already," Adam said with a laugh. The Park Ranger and EMT had been dating since meeting at the hospital, when Alberto was injured.
Shawn chuckled, "I'm sure he'll poke his head in. He knows we're coming. He's closing off the site just in case, but I doubt anyone else had found it. Yeah, Ricardo asked me to remind you about the letter. Well, Wade, that's about it. You're ready," Shawn said with a "dusting" action of his hands.
"Thanks, Shawn. I appreciate all the help. I'll be down in the parking lot at four. Better get some sleep then," the Englishman said with a yawn. He was exhausted thinking about getting up so early.
Adam and Shawn bid Wade good-bye and left the new apartment. They had ridden together in Adam's Mustang. When they got back to the Helmsley's, Adam went up to the carriage house to visit Jay and Heath. While there he found out that once Chris had been moved out of the ICU, and the others started to visit, Jericho's recovery sped up. Evan went with Chris to rehab. They worked together to help each other. Evan was relentless in driving Chris to go a bit further each day. He took Chris' bad moods and turned them into something positive. Chris was even practicing his singing. His voice was rough, but would improve with time. He didn't even have to wear a hat as his hair was growing back; quickly.
Adam was glad to hear that Chris was doing so well. He was also pleased to see that Heath was keeping the place clean, it wasn't hard though, Jason was a neat freak anyway. They told Adam to have wonderful time camping. With hugs and kisses Adam left to go home to Bret.
"Did you pack the lube?" Bret asked, brow raised as he looked for the brand new bottle he'd bought yesterday.
Adam was standing at the ironing board he'd set up in the spare bedroom they were using to prepare for the trip. He flushed a bit, "Umm... yeah. I thought we might need it," Adam never looked up from the camouflage button down he was pressing. He knew he would be too flushed faced.
"Oh you did, did you? What if I wanted to use it now?" Bret asked with a lust filled smirk. He loved how easy it was to rile his boy up.
"Not enough time, Bear. We have to be ready to leave here at three-thirty, that means getting up at two, in the morning. But I promise, we'll find a nice place and you can have this ass in the great outdoors," Adam replied as he kept on ironing, a blush still on his cheeks.
"True enough. Good thing we are used to odd hours. So was Wade's new place nice?" Bret asked as he worked on packing his backpack.
"Yeah, really nice. His father did a good job. I'll tell you though, now that I live in a house, I know how Shawn feels. I like a yard and the space," Adam said truthfully. He did love living in a house.
Bret and Adam finished packing and by six pm they were sound asleep, as were the Helmsley's and Wade Barret. The morning would come early, but the thought of the big trip made everything worth it.
At five-fifteen am, Hunter pulled his pick-up truck to the Mountain Trails Stable. Already the place was active. A big, club cab pick-up truck with a two-horse trailer was being loaded. People were riding horses in the corral. The Stable Master came over to the group of campers, a smile on his face.
"Hallo Mister Shawn! Good to see you again. I'll get some boys to help you unload," the Stable Master said with a shake to Shawn's hand. He waved to a couple of men who came to help.
"Thanks, Gene, good to see you too. Yup, let's get em loaded," Shawn said happily. His Texas accent was stronger than usual. Hunter always noticed the more Shawn was outdoors, like this, the more Texan he became. Hunter loved it, it was how he knew his baby was truly happy.
A stable hand led the two horses out of the barn, they wore empty pack harnesses. One was a beautiful bay mare, the other a Palomino gelding. They were large and extremely sturdy looking. "Skip and May, the two best packers I have. They are steady and quiet. Did you remember to factor in the weight of their oat sacks?" the Stable Master asked thoughtfully. His name was Gene Jones, and was the best Stable Master in Denver. He and Shawn were friends. They had known each other at school in Texas.
"Yup, I did. They look good, thanks Gene. Well let's get this show on the road," Shawn said as he followed the Stable Master to the truck and trailer.
Wade felt a little lost as he watched all the activity. He wasn't sure about any of this. He just hoped he had a chance to get into Adam's head. He still hadn't forgotten his goal; destroy Adam Copeland.
Adam noticed the look on the Englishman's face. Bret was busy with Shawn and Gene as they loaded the horses with the camping gear. Hunter had gone to find the last flushing toilet they would use for eight days. Adam went over to where Wade was standing.
"You okay Wade? If you want to change your mind about going, nobody will think less of you," Adam said honestly to his friend and colleague. He never understood why Wade wanted to come along anyway.
"No, I'm alright. It's just a bit; overwhelming. I just thought you put on a backpack and hiked. Shawn is so... serious about it," Wade said with a shake of his head.
"Wade, it is serious. This is wild camping. It's not a place with barbecue pits and showers. We will be miles and miles into the wilderness. No other people around. Dangerous animals about. Shawn knows that, he respects it. It may seem serious, but because of Shawn, We'll have a wonderful and relaxing vacation. Trust me," Adam explained, his hand on Wade's shoulder. Adam wore a smile that made Wade want to just fuck the shit out of him, right then and there.
"You're right. I'm looking forward to it, I just... well I'm glad Shawn knows what's what. So um, Adam, I know we haven't spoken socially for a while. Are you happy?" Wade asked, his brow raised. He hoped maybe things between Bret and Adam weren't so good, maybe the age difference was more than Adam had thought about.
Wade watched as Adam looked over to where Bret was helping load the pack horses. The Captain's arm muscles flexed as he easily lifted the hundred pound sack of oats on Skip's back. The grain sack would serve as a base for the other gear. He did the same with May. Adam's tongue quickly licked his lips.
Adam turned back to Barrett, "Yes Wade, I'm very happy. I know you and I had fun together, but I have to be honest, Wade. I love Bret. For the first time I understand what those three words mean, what they really mean," Adam's tone was firm, but his expression was that of a man totally besotted with his lover.
Wade knew by that expression that it would be hard to drive a wedge between the lovers, but he hoped to do it. Nothing would break Adam more than another failed relationship. Wade put on a caring expression, he'd become and expert at wearing false masks. "Good, I'm happy for you Adam, I really am. Of course, I wish it was me making you feel that way. I'm happy to be your friend, at least," Wade did and expert job of sounding sincere and caring.
"You'll find someone, Wade. Sometimes it just happens when you least expect it. Let's just enjoy this vacation. Come on, they need some help," Adam replied as he walked away from the Englishman. He went to go see what he could do to help.
Had anyone seen the expression on Barrett's face when Adam turned away from him, they would have fallen to their knees in fright. They certainly wouldn't have taken him on the trip. With all expression now wiped from his face, Wade went over to the others. If he wanted any of his plan to work, he had to make himself part of the team.
The horses each carried a sack of oats, then the things like tents and sleeping bags. The camp stove and the chair were made to be easily broken down for carrying as they were strapped to the harness of Skip. Shawn watched where each item was placed so he could repack the horses for the return trip.
An hour later, they were on the road to the drop off point. Hunter rode shotgun, while Shawn and Wade rode in the "backseat" of the club cab. Bret and Adam rode, snuggled together in the bed of the truck, their backs up against the cab end of the pick-up. Wade could see them through the window. He growled inside, how could two people kiss so much and not have raw lips?
"There Gene! It's Alberto!" Shawn said in a surprised voice. The Park Ranger was waiting for them at the drop off point. It was nearly seven-thirty in the morning.
When the truck and trailer had pulled safely off the road, the passengers got out. Shawn hugged the waiting Ranger. "I didn't expect to see you! How are you Alberto?" Shawn asked with another hug to his friend.
"Hello Shawn! I'm fine! Wasn't sure you'd remember the exact spot. I should have known better. Hello Adam, Hunter. How are you? " the Ranger spoke with a smile. Alberto was very handsome, his smile was warm and friendly. He hugged Adam and Hunter and shook hands as Shawn introduced the Ranger to Wade and Bret.
"Good. Here, before I forget, someone said I'd be in big trouble if you didn't get this," Adam said with a laugh as he pulled Ricardo's letter of his coat pocket.
Alberto, a native of Mexico, smiled even brighter when he took the letter and saw the handwriting. "Thank you, Adam. I miss my little Taquito," Del Rio pocketed the letter then turned serious, he continued. "The place is in great shape, but be wary, the wildlife is upset. There was a forest fire a couple of weeks ago. It was easily controlled and put out, but it always makes the wildlife nervous for a while," his tone was serious, but he knew Shawn knew his way around the forest.
"Thanks for the heads up. I brought the gun, can you give me a temporary permit, if I have to kill, to defend?" Shawn asked the Ranger in an equally serious tone.
"Already have it for you, here. Don't forget once you get three miles in, you lose cell phone range. I'll come by in a couple of days, so have the trout frying," Albert said with another bright smile. He also handed Shawn a paper. It stated that temporary permission, to kill any wildlife that attacked or posed a threat, was given to Shawn Helmsley.
It took another thirty minutes of talking, unloading the horses and putting on backpacks, but eventually they were ready. With handshakes to Gene and the time of the pick up in eight days arranged, along with farewells to Alberto, the hikers were soon on their way. It was a two-hour hike to the place they would spend the next eight days.
"Shawn! This place is amazing! Not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't this!" Adam said in an almost reverent tone as they finally arrived at their destination.
The spot was like Eden on earth. The river was lazy and not too wide. There was a clearing, surrounded by woods. There was plenty of grazing room for the horses and places for the three tents. There was also a little grove of trees, close to the river where Adam could put the hammock.
Shawn was pleasantly surprised to find that not only had Alberto fixed the fire pit, he'd made sure there was a good supply of wood to start with.
"Okay boys, let's do the work, then we can relax. Bret, you build the fire. Wade, Adam you dig the latrine over there, Hunter and I will start with the tents. Bret, after the fire, put picket stakes and tie out the horses. An hour of work, then we'll eat!" Shawn took command and no one minded. After all, he was the one with the most experience.
Wade didn't even mind being put on the task to dig the "shit" hole, because Adam was so happy and chatty as they dug. He told the story again, about the poison ivy incident with a laugh. He paid special attention that this place didn't have the poison ivy like the place they went last year on the Big Thompson River.
By the time Bret had the fire going to his satisfaction, Hunter and Shawn had put up Wade's one man tent. They were working on Bret and Adam's bigger three-man tent. They made sure the tents were far enough apart for privacy, but close enough together for "group" safety.
Birds provided beautiful background music, while chirping insects provided the "string" section with harmony. The lazy sound of the flowing river brought nature's orchestra together by providing the percussion.
Bret drove the iron picket stakes deep. The horses were tied to them with long lines. They could graze from the grass and drink from the river. The first thing they did though was roll around in the grass, erasing the feeling of their harnesses.
The last thing Shawn and Hunter erected was a small pup tent. It was the "storage" closet for all their supplies. It was close enough to the fire pit to keep away wildlife, but back enough not to be in the way. Hunter had put a small table together. It would be used for food preparation.
Shawn was preparing a pot of coffee. He had to use bottled water for the first pot. After that, he would use water boiled and sterilized from the river. A pot of water would always be boiling over the fire. He also had the sausage frying, biscuits baking and was stirring eggs to scramble. The smell of boiling coffee and food cooking soon added to the atmosphere.
"You baked these? On the campfire?" Wade asked as he swallowed his bite of breakfast sandwich. Shawn had put a sausage patty and scrambled egg on biscuits to make sandwiches. They were delicious.
"Yeah. This was my great, great grandmothers cast iron "spider". She crossed Texas by covered wagon. It's the same recipe she used too. It's never failed," the nurse replied with a bit of pride. Shawn loved his pioneer heritage.
"That's amazing. You know, we tend to forget you American's have quite an exciting history. However, when you walk into a church built, in the ninth century, it's pretty awe-inspiring too," Wade also spoke with pride. He loved his country's ancient history.
"I know what you mean. Hunter took me to Germany, a few years ago. We took a cruise on the Rhine River. So many ancient castles and the craftsmanship they had back then, I don't think today's buildings will last nearly as long. That's why I love our old house," Shawn said with a smile. He leaned against Hunter's body as he sipped his coffee.
Adam finished his last bite of food. "Well, I guess I'm still the baby, so I have to do the dishes?" he sounded like a pouting child. Every time he went camping with the Helmsley's and his brother, he had to do two things; dig the latrine and do the dishes. Sometimes he got a little tired of it.
Shawn laughed, "Tell you what, I'll show Wade how to do it. Buddy, take him for a walk or something," Shawn said with a sly wink.
Adam's eyes lit up, "Thanks! Come on, Bear. Help me with the hammock," he grabbed Bret by the arm and pulled Bret to his feet.
"You are a naughty boy. Getting out of your chores," Bret said with a swat to Adam's rear. With a growl he picked Adam up and tossed him over his shoulder. He grabbed the packet with the hammock and headed toward the river, with Adam laughing happily as he hung over the firefighter's shoulder.
Shawn sighed softly, "They are so happy. I've never seen Buddy smile so much, or to be honest, Adam either. He never laughed that much around Chris. Do you think they will marry?" Shawn asked his husband. They were watching the mentioned couple as they headed toward the grove of trees by the creek.
Wade didn't hear Hunter's response. He was too busy watching the couple as well. It made his soul burn, that should be him with Adam, laughing and playing. He had to figure out something. At the end of eight days, Adam would be in his bed. Bret Hart would be just a bad memory. His ears turned back to the conversation of the married doctor and nurse.
"... So we'll see," hunter said softly. He tucked a wisp of Shawn's hair behind his ear that had come loose from his pony tail.
"Yes, we will. Well, Wade let's wash up. We'll need that boiling water and the bio degradable soap, and of course, the river," Shawn said as he loaded the dirty dishes into a folding bag and grabbed a dish towel.
Hunter worked on putting up the cooking supplies. It was important to keep all unused food sealed. The smell of cooking food was bad enough, raw food didn't need to be left out to draw even more attention.
Adam and Bret had easily hung the hammock. Two trees had been perfectly spaced, as if made for a hammock. Adam was lying in the comfortable swinging "bed", his arms behind his head. Bret was standing next to him, gently pushing the hammock.
"This is nice, come on, Bear. It's big enough for two," Adam's voice was soft and very seductive. He moved a bit to make room for Bret.
With a low growl, Bret climbed into the hammock. He was on his back, Adam turned on his side and put his head on Bret's shoulder. The Captain wrapped his arms around his boy. They laid quietly and just enjoyed the peace and quiet and each other.
After Shawn and Wade did the dishes, the nurse packed all the clean things away. Hunter was waiting with their fishing rods, "come on Wade, Shawn and I are going fishing. Join us," the older doctor said with a smile.
"Thanks, but you two go, enjoy yourselves. I'll just enjoy the quiet with my book," Wade said with a smile. What he really wanted to do was plan what to do to destroy Adam and Bret.
"Sure? We want you to feel like part of us, not feel left out. Okay?" Hunter asked his brow raised. He truly wanted the Brit to enjoy his time in the wilderness.
"Yes, I'm sure. I appreciate that. I expect to learn how an expert fishes. I've tried but, I've never caught anything," Barrett said honestly. Inside he was still growling, he just wanted to be left alone to think.
With a nod, Hunter went to join Shawn who had started walking towards his favorite fishing spot, a little ways up the river. Hunter was a bit miffed at his husband for just walking off. "Shawn that was rude," Hunter said as he caught up with his little coppery-blond headed spouse.
"I don't... Hunter, he's up to something. I don't know what, but the vibe he's putting off... let's just say, I'm keeping my eye on him. I also don't want him wandering off alone with Adam either. Don't ask me why, I can't tell you, but I just don't trust him," Shawn said in a confident tone. He kept walking towards the fishing hole.
Hunter shrugged and followed Shawn. He hoped his husband was wrong, but to be honest, he too was beginning to wonder about Wade himself. He was really smarming up to Heyman of late.
Wade put his chair up, facing the river. He could also see the grove of trees where Adam and Bret were. He stopped short of pulling out the binoculars, he thought that would be too obvious. He pulled out his paperback copy of "Lord of the Rings" and pretended to read.
"This is so nice. I could stay here all week, just lying in your arms. Swinging gently, birds singing. I love you, Bear," Adam whispered softly as he snuggled closer to Bret.
"You'd get board, Sugar. But I agree, having you in my arms for eight days is very nice. I love you, Sugar," Bret said with a kiss to the top of the blond head on his shoulder.
Adam moved a bit so he could reach Bret's lips. He gave his lover a deep, slow kiss. It perfectly matched the mood. Bret wrapped his arms around his boy and pulled Adam on top of him. His hand slid down into the pockets of the jeans Adam had on, he gave a bit of a squeeze. Adam moaned and squirmed. His movements caused their cocks to rub together. The action made Bret growl low as the couple continued to kiss.
"I love this spot, Hunt. Thanks for making this possible for all of us," Shawn said as he cast his line in the water. The fishing hole was beautiful, a large, flat rock jetted out over the river. It made a perfect "bench" to sit on, and a tree hung over the rock, and provided just the right amount of shade.
Hunter cast his own line, then leaned back. He pulled the bill of his baseball cap down, low over his eyes. "I needed this too, babe, but you're welcome. I think it does the little Weasel good to work in the ER. Puts him back in touch with the day-to-day dealings," Hunter spoke in a near scoffing tone.
"Trips! I hope you don't slip up and call him that at work. You've obviously been talking to Buddy about him," Shawn said with a laugh as he recast is line.
"Well, yeah. He's kind of... no, I won't say. Well he is a little Weasel," Hunter said in a hesitant tone. He too, recast his line into the lazy Platte River.
"That was back in college. I'm sure Paul has changed; but you do deal with him more than I do," Shawn said casually. He wondered what his husband was going to say, but he knew better than to ask. Hunter wouldn't break Bret's confidence.
Their conversation was soon forgotten as suddenly the fish started taking the bait on the two fishing lines. First Shawn, then Hunter. Then Hunter twice more, and Shawn caught three more. The seven fish were enough for their supper later. Shawn hooked them on a stringer and left them in the water till time to clean them for supper.
After the "strain" of catching their dinner, Shawn and Hunter, each propped against their tackle boxes, dozed, hand in had in the warm afternoon sun. Hunter's baseball cap and Shawn's cowboy hat hid their faces.
Back at the campsite, Wade was still pretending to read as he spied on Bret and Adam. He paused once in a while to put another log on the fire. He also removed the pot of boiling water. He put the next one to boil. He sat back down and picked up his book. It didn't take long, before he was too dozing in the sun, his U of C Hospital baseball cap pulled low over his eyes.
At the hammock, things had cooled off. Both Bret and Adam knew if they didn't stop, they would go too far. Broad daylight, in sight of the others was not the place to make love. They were lying side by side, talking quietly.
"I wonder if we'll be having trout for supper," Bret asked with a pat to his belly. He loved fresh, friend trout and hush puppies.
"I'm sure Shawn at least will catch a few. I've never starved when camping with Shawn and Hunter. I hope Wade isn't too lonely. Guess he didn't want to go fishing," Adam said thoughtfully, then yawned.
"I don't know why he wanted to come. He had to know he'd be a fifth wheel. Adam, do you think he wants to come between us? Does he say anything at work?" Bret asked with a worried tone. He trusted Adam utterly and completely, it was the Brit he didn't trust.
Adam shrugged, he didn't know why Wade wanted to come along either, but he spoke, " No, Bret. He accepted that I chose you. Of course, he didn't like it, but he wished us luck. No, all we ever really talk about at work, is work. He does spend a lot of time with Doctor Heyman. Okay, I'll admit, sometimes I have a feeling he's up to something, but he treats me just fine, honestly, Bret."
Bret protectively pulled Adam in closer, "Just, be careful at work. Paul is okay, but he can be easily swayed sometimes. I know Shawn doesn't trust him either. Maybe we'd better go keep him company. Tell you what though, how about coming back here, tonight. We'll look at the stars," Bret said the last three words in a way that left no doubt about what he really meant.
Adam gave Bret a kiss that acknowledged he understood Bret's meaning clearly. They rolled out of the hammock, and walked towards Wade, hand in hand. May watched as she chewed on some grass and Skip was drinking from the river while natures concert played on.
Wade opened his eyes and yawned. A noise from the fire had woken him. He was surprised to see Captain Hart putting more wood on the fire, the bucket was also gone from its hanging rack. Adam was sitting one of the rocks that had been brought up from the river to be a seat, several years ago by some long forgotten camper or maybe even a homesteader.
"Goodness, I must have really fallen asleep. It's so peaceful here. I haven't had that deep of a rest in weeks," Wade said in an embarrassed tone, he pushed his hat back a little.
"Sorry I woke you," Bret said as he kept poking at the fire.
"It's okay. Shawn and Hunter still fishing?" Wade asked as he looked around the camp, the sun was lower in the sky. He guessed he'd slept a couple of hours.
"Probably sleeping. The fishing hole is a nice resting spot; oh wait, here they come," Adam remarked as the Helmsley's appeared from the woods. He'd started to get out the things to fry fish. He was that sure of Shawn's ability to catch fish.
"Got seven! Already cleaned them, oh good Adam. Let's get cooking," Shawn said as he and Hunter got to the camp.
While Shawn and Adam prepared their dinner. Hunter, Wade and Bret went to feed the horses their daily ration of oats and do some grooming. Wade loved brushing the blond hairs of the Palomino's mane, it made him think of Adam.
Later, sitting around the fire, they all enjoyed a meal of fried fish, hush puppies and fried potatoes. It was delicious and plentiful. Off in the distance a lone wolf howled at the rising moon as the last bit of daylight faded away.
"I thought Davy made good hush puppies, but Adam these are fantastic!" Bret said as he stuffed the last hush puppy into his mouth.
Adam smiled, but before he could speak, Wade interrupted, "how can you speak of him in front of Adam! That's... cruel!" Wade was truly shocked that Bret spoke so openly of his husband in front of Adam.
Adam put his hand on Bret's knee, to calm him. He could tell Bret was angry, "Wade, it's alright. Davy was part of Bret's life for ten years, Davy will always be in his heart, as he should be. I know, I have my place there too. I'm honored to share that space. I'm also honored Bret compliments me," Adam spoke softly but firmly. Bret gently put his hand over Adam's.
"I'm terribly sorry. Obviously I put my foot in my mouth. Please, forgive me, both of you. I'll just keep to myself," Wade spoke in an apologetic tone. Well, that plan didn't work. He couldn't make Adam jealous of Davy's memory if he tried.
Bret swallowed hard, if Adam was alright, that was all that mattered. "Right, but understand this; Adam is the most unselfish, loving, caring person I have ever met. I will not allow anyone, and I mean anyone, to hurt him in any way, shape or form. I love him, and nothing is going to change that. I would die for him," Bret's words were firm and honest. It was also the first time he truly wanted to kill another man. For Adam's sake, he was willing to forget it.
"Again, I'm sorry. Thank you both for being the bigger men. I learned something, Adam really does have a large heart," Wade again spoke honestly. However, he hid his true feelings of anger and disappointment.
Shawn broke the tension, "how about while Adam and I clean up the three of you practice some songs. We'll roast marshmallows and have a first night sing along."
They all thought that was a good idea. The tension was broken as everyone moved to do as Shawn suggested. In order to keep the music a surprise, the two doctors and the Captain each took a lantern and went off to practice. Adam and Shawn cleaned up, using the hot water that had been boiled earlier.
The five men spent a fun evening around the campfire. It turned out that Wade was very talented with both the guitar and in the ability to sing. Nobody even minded poor Adam's off-key singing because he didn't get a chance to sing, Bret made sure he fed his boy lots of toasted marshmallows, that kept his mouth busy.
They sang and laughed till after midnight. Bret banked the fire as the others headed to their tents. It was best to keep the fire always going, it helped keep predators at bay.
After waiting till they were sure the others were asleep, Bret and Adam left their tent. With the aid of a lantern the firefighter carried, they headed to the hammock. The summer air was warmer than usual for being in the foothills, by a river.
Bret put out the lantern and looked at Adam, who was already lying on the hammock. His breath was taken away as he looked at his lover. Bret couldn't believe how beautiful and serene Adam looked in the soft glow of the moonlight. The physician had removed his t-shirt, his hair fell over his shoulders. He held his hand out to his older lover.
Bret pulled off his tee and climbed onto the hammock. Adam had brought a thick blanket with him. He covered them with the warm cloth, as warm as the air was, without shirts it was cool enough to call for the use of the blanket. Adam grinned wickedly in the moonlight as he pulled the bottle of lube out of his pocket.
"Such a dirty little boy I have," Bret husked in his bear like growl. He pulled Adam on top of him. He kissed Adam with all his days pent-up desire and passion.
"Make me even dirtier, Bear," Adam whispered hotly when the kiss finally broke. His eyes burned with lust and want.
"What a cum slut. Get those pants off my beautiful whore," Bret husked as he worked his own pants off his body. He took his boxers off with them.
Adam worked to pull his pants and thong off. Bret had moved to enable him to remove his clothes. Soon they were naked under the blanket as the hammock swung gently. Bret slicked his fingers with the lube and silenced the intrusion into Adam's pucker with a kiss. Adam groaned as the fingers scissored his hole open.
Wade Barrett laid in his tent and listened. He was a bit surprised when he heard a tent unzip, followed by the sounds of footsteps. Wade heard Bret barely whisper, "grab the blanket." He then heard the couple move away from the tent area.
Barrett waited for ten minutes, he then grabbed his night vision binoculars and silently left the tent. He paused as he heard near silent moans of pleasure coming from the Helmsley's tent.
Wade could see the lantern Bret was holding, go out. He knew the couple had gone down to the hammock. He crept as close as he dared. Luckily there was a tree he could hide behind. He hoped there weren't any dangerous creatures there with him.
Barrett focused his binoculars on the Captain and the Doctor. He could tell exactly what was happening. He wished he could hear the noises Adam had to be making. Adam was obviously riding Hart's dick. His head was thrown back in pleasure, blond hair flowing down his back. Hart's hand was pulling, tugging and twisting Adam's cock. Adam's mouth was moving as his hips thrust.
The Englishman absentmindedly took out his own throbbing cock. He stroked himself as he continued to spy on the couple fucking. It wasn't Bret's face he saw, as he felt his own climax building. He pictured his face on the firefighters body. He was the one making Adam moan in pleasure.
Nature observed a disturbing sight as three men shot their loaded cocks at nearly the same time. Wade wiped his sticky hand in the grass, he was panting hard. He'd never cum that hard; alone. He then hurried back to his tent.
The Brit was nearly asleep when he heard Bret and Adam return to their tent. Adam was giggling happily as Bret growled out something. Wade vowed, that no matter what, before the trip was over, he'd be the one Adam was with...
No. Matter. What.