Ben was driving with Vic sitting next to him as they approached a traffic light on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. The light turned yellow and in his classic style, Ben punched the gas barely making it through the intersection before the light changed to red.
"Benjamin! How many times do I have to tell you that yellow does not mean 'stomp the gas'?" Vic said firmly.
"Sorry," Ben mildly replied.
"No, you aren't. If you were, you wouldn't continue to do it. 'Sorry' is just your way to hopefully change the subject and shut me up."
"That's not true," Ben said, knowing full well that was exactly what he was hoping for when he uttered it.
"Listen to me," Vic plowed on, "I do NOT want to be representing you again for your driving, is that understood?"
"But Vic. If it wasn't for my driving, we wouldn't be together," Ben said as he looked over at Vic with a winning smile.
In spite of himself, Vic smiled back. He struggled to remain stern, "That's beside the point."
He sat back in the seat thinking about how they met. Ben was doing the same.
It was just over a year ago when on an equally sunny day Ben was again driving. This time he was alone. He passed an Oldsmobile that was putt-putting along in front of him, too slowly for Ben's taste. Ben came around the Oldsmobile and put his foot in the gas driving faster than the posted speed. After a few miles, the Oldsmobile driver returned the favor and came around Ben to pass him.
"Okay, Granny," Ben said to himself, "just don't slow me down."
The vehicle went just fast enough to pass then promptly slowed down to 55 again.
"You stupid _f_u_c_k_!" Ben yelled, as if the offending driver could hear.
He pulled around the car and passed again, using his middle finger, as a sign to communicate how NOT pleased he was with the other driver. Satisfied that he had shown her, Ben settled back into the right lane in front of her again.
"Unbelievable!" Ben muttered as Granny pulled from behind him yet again. Ben's temper erupted. He slowed to let the vehicle come around then promptly laid on the gas when she got in front of him, slamming purposefully into the back of the vehicle. Granny stopped dead in the road and Ben had to nearly stand on the brakes to keep from rear-ending her again. He could see her cell phone to her ear through the back glass.
His temper dissolved quickly when he saw her on the phone and he realized the magnitude of what he had just done. Ever creative, he quickly decided Granny must have slammed on the brakes causing him to hit her in the rear. She HAD stopped in the road after all and it would be his word against hers.
"What the _f_u_c_k_ were you thinking, slamming on the brakes like that?" he yelled at her, approaching her car.
"Slamming on the brakes?" she replied as she held her neck. "YOU rear ended me! ON PURPOSE! I only stopped after you hit me."
Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it, Ben thought. She continued to hold her neck then started rubbing her back as she stood beside her car. Guilt began to worm its way into Ben's psyche mixed with fear from what he had done.
"Are you okay?" he asked her more gently.
"My back and neck hurt. I need to go to the hospital, I think."
Great. This had the potential to get ugly real fast. The police finally arrived and issued Ben a ticket, believing Granny over him. The officer told Ben he would include his version on the police report and he could plead his case to the judge. He took his ticket without much argument and headed home to sulk.
Benji caught up with Zach the next day for lunch as usual. Ben stuck to his story when he talked to Zach, although he really didn't like lying to his friend. He was too ashamed to confess so he was really left no choice. He gave vague details painting himself to be the innocent victim of wretched Granny who obviously couldn't drive.
"I think she must have hit her brakes or something," Benji recounted.
"Man, that's awful. How's your car?" Zach asked around a mouthful of food in the college cafe.
"Not too bad. It runs. I have to take it to the insurance company tomorrow to look at it."
Ben picked absently at the food on his plate.
"I hope the old lady doesn't sue you," Zach said, washing down his burger with a slurp of Coke.
"_s_h_i_t_, she was already holding her neck and back."
"NOT a good sign," Zach said, finishing his food. "I've gotta run. Class in five minutes. Good luck with the insurance company, Mario."
"Mario?" Ben asked, puzzled.
"Andretti, dope," Zach said, rolling his eyes and grabbing his books. He was off to class.
Earlier that morning, Ben had worked willingly with the insurance company giving them the same sob story he was determined to maintain. The insurance company denied Granny's claim since Ben offered no witnesses and their stories conflicted. Even though Ben hit her on purpose, he didn't buy that she was hurt for one minute like she claimed. She was probably just looking for a way to supplement her social security income. Cha-ching!
A couple of weeks after her claim was denied, Ben came home to find suit papers stuck in his door. Granny was obviously a tenacious old bag and didn't give up easily.
He didn't understand the legal mumbo jumbo but understood the amount - $100,000! He couldn't believe his eyes. He didn't have that kind of money and his mother would never pay it. She paid Benji an allowance so he could afford a car and an apartment, but she didn't have THAT much money. He hadn't even planned to tell her about the wreck.
This was the insurance companys entire fault for not paying the bitch. He was glad at first they didn't pay but now he was hoping they would relent and give her at least enough to make her go away. He grabbed the phone and called Zach. Nelson answered the phone.
"Hi, Nelson. Is Zach at home?"
"He is, but he can't talk right now. Anything I can help you with?"
Ben was aware of the type of relationship Nelson and Zach shared and wondered immediately if Zach was in trouble. Zach had confided in him after Nelson spanked him the very first time and he tried to sort out whether it was right for him. Ben remembered Zach's turmoil, not liking the discipline aspect but craving the attention and support Nelson offered. He often envied Zach, not for the spankings, but because he had someone who loved him enough to take care of him and keep him in line.
He really wanted to talk to Zach, but under the circumstances, Nelson would have to do.
"Did Zach tell you about my accident?"
"He mentioned it, why?"
"The old lady sued me! I don't know what I'm going to do," Ben said as his voice cracked, tears threatening.
Nelson heard it and said calmly to Ben, "What are you doing for dinner tonight? Come over and we'll talk. Everything will be fine, I promise."
Ben promptly accepted, anxious for the support.
"See you at six," Nelson told him.
Nelson felt for Ben. He was out of control and Nelson often questioned his influence on Zach. He knew Ben was a good guy inside and just needed a firm hand and guidance. In fact, he was much like Zach when they first met.
Ben's mother was into nothing more than her career and didn't even live in the same state. His father bailed when Ben was young. According to Zach, Ben was failing miserably in his studies, dangerously close to being dismissed from school altogether. It seemed he partied more than he studied. Zach had found himself over Nelson's knees on more than one occasion because he succumbed to Ben's pressure to do something he had no business doing. Nelson shook his head and began to start dinner.
He called to Zach who was standing in the corner. "Can you behave yourself now?" he asked.
Zach was sure he could, his bottom still smarting from the spanking he just received. He had come home in a foul mood and taken it out on Nelson somehow managing to tell him to _f_u_c_k_ off. Nelson didn't tolerate that kind of language and promptly turned Zach over his knee and spanked him as a reminder of just how he felt about such things. He was lucky, he supposed, that his punishment did not include soap as well.
"Come here, Zach."
Those words were comforting this time, although not long ago they turned his stomach to lead.
"That was Ben on the phone," he said pulling Zach into a tight hug. "Seems the lady he hit sued him. He's pretty upset so he's coming over for dinner."
Zach had surmised the dinner part from the phone conversation he overheard. The lawsuit was a shock.
"What will he do, Nelson? Can he go to jail?" he asked, pulling back to look at Nelson. He swiped at his nose, sniffing.
"No. It would be a civil suit, not criminal. Everything will be all right."
He gave Zach another hug and led him into the living room toward the stairs.
"Why don't you go upstairs and wash your face before Ben gets here?"
Zach complied and was feeling much better by the time Ben was due to arrive.
Out of character, Ben showed up right on time for dinner. His stomach wasn't interested in food, but he needed to talk to someone who could help. Nelson seemed the perfect choice. It would be rude not to eat, but he was spending more time pushing the food around his plate than eating it.
"Eat your dinner, Benjamin."
"I'm not hungry."
"It wasn't a request. I want you to eat. Now."
Nelson had never disciplined Ben, but knowing how he handled Zach, Ben didn't want to push it. He had noticed the visible wince from Zach when he sat down for dinner, which confirmed his earlier suspicion. Ben filled his fork and began to eat.
They finished dinner and Nelson decided it was time to talk about Benjis problem.
"Why don't you tell me what's going on, Benji?"
Nelson listened patiently as Ben gave him his version of events firsthand. Nelson sat back in his chair and looked thoughtfully at Ben.
"What are we going to do with you, Ben? How do you manage to find trouble so easily?"
"I don't KNOW! What will I do?" Ben answered, eyes full of worry.
"Well, first of all, you're going to call the insurance adjuster and tell him about the suit papers. They should provide you a defense. I want you to call them first thing in the morning. Understand?"
Benji nodded his agreement and Nelson got up to put his dishes in the sink.
"But, tonight, I'm calling my friend, Vic. He's a lawyer and I know he does defense work for insurance companies. Maybe he works for yours," Nelson said calmly, laying out the plan. "In the meantime - dishes."
Zach groaned audibly, but got up and started working on the dishes with Ben. Meanwhile, Nelson called Vic and gave him the Cliff Notes version of events.
"I do some work for them," Vic responded, recognizing both the adjuster and the insurance company names.
He quickly checked his handheld and saw he could fit Ben in the next day.
"Let me give them a call tomorrow morning. Tell Ben to come by my office at 2:00. This is no big deal, Nelson. I handle this stuff every day."
"Thanks for your help, Vic. Ben's a good kid, if somewhat misguided."
Vic had heard a few stories about Ben from Nelson and Zach but they had never met. Vic was more than glad to help him out.
Nelson came back to the kitchen, as Ben and Zach were finishing up. He gave Ben the news and the appointment time. Ben once again felt a pang of jealously that Zach had someone like Nelson. He swallowed it as Nelson came over and put his arms around Ben.
"It will be okay, sweetie."
He kissed Ben's forehead and rubbed his back. Ben relaxed in the embrace enjoying the comfort he found there. Sometimes he felt so alone, and Nelson's strength was both encouraging and relaxing.
The next day, Ben arrived at Vic's office promptly at 2:00. He didn't want to be late and desperately needed the assistance Vic offered.
The receptionist asked him to have a seat while she notified Vic of Ben's arrival. Minutes later, he was shown into Vic's office.
He took a look at the man behind the desk and caught his breath. Zach didn't mention that Vic was a god. He pulled his 6'2" frame up to its full height from behind the desk and strode over to shake Ben's hand. His enormous hand enveloped Ben's. Ben could hardly focus on the issue at hand, staring at the dark-eyed, dark-haired man.
"How are you, Benjamin? I'm Vic Tanner. I've spoken with your adjuster and I'll be defending your case."
Vic was doing some admiring of his own and didn't fail to notice Ben was an extremely attractive young man. He wondered how Nelson managed not to mention it.
"Let's get the details of the situation so I can answer the complaint," he said, motioning for Ben to have a seat.
They worked together on the case for about an hour, Vic taking copious notes. Ben gave him the cleaned up version he insisted on maintaining. He could hardly change his story now. Vic finished asking all his questions then neatly sorted the papers he had been scribbling on. His desk was immaculate. He finished up by getting some personal contact information from Benji in case he needed anything else.
"All right, Ben. I think that's all I need for now. Don't worry about this. I'll take care of it. I'll let you know if I need anything further from you," Vic said then led him to the door.
Ben dropped by Zach's house after the meeting to tell him how things went.
"You didn't tell me he was gorgeous," Ben said to his friend.
"Who, Vic?! I don't even look at him like that. He's just Nelson's friend. I guess he IS sort of good looking. I prefer blondes," Zach said with a smile.
"You guess? What are you, blind? Is he taken?"
"Why, you interested?"
"Are you blind AND deaf?"
Zach grinned at his obviously smitten friend. "Lucky for you, you're both playing on the same team, and no, he isn't taken."
Zach later mentioned to Nelson what Ben thought of Vic and suggested a cookout or something to get the two of them together on a more comfortable, less structured level.
Nelson noticed Cupid's wings spreading and said, "You stay out of it, Zach. They have a professional relationship right now and it needs to stay that way. If anything should come of it later, it will have to be at the urging of Mother Nature, not you. Understood?"
"Yes, sir," Zach answered, resigned to stay out of it but only to keep out of trouble. "But you know, Nelson, it would be fun, wouldn't it? Your best friend and mine, together?"
Nelson sighed and looked at his partner, "It isn't up to us."
Nelson relented, "Okay, it would be fun, but we are NOT interfering. They are adults and know how to interact without our help." With Zach so insistent on playing matchmaker, Nelson wondered if Ben had mentioned something about Vic. Nelson wasnt about to tell Zach that Vic seemed interested in Ben.
"Okay, okay. I'll leave it alone," Zach said, but continued anyway. "But what if Vic feels the same way?"
"Zachary...." Nelson said warningly. He decided Zach would get a swat if he didnt change the subject.
"OKAY!" Zach responded as if reading Nelsons mind and didnt say another word.
Nelson thought back to his earlier conversation with Vic that day. He talked a good deal about Benjamin, wanting to know details about him. It had gone far enough for Nelson to suggest he take Ben out after their professional relationship was over. Vic had feigned shock and said he just thought he was a nice guy, but Nelson suspected more. He planned to stay out of it just like he had told Zach to do. He would simply be there for support should the relationship move to another level.
The next day, Vic spoke with the opposing counsel and learned a new version of the accident details. Granny and her insurer tracked down two independent witnesses who supported this version. They were more than eager to testify on Granny's behalf.
Vic managed to keep his temper in check knowing that Ben had lied to him all along. Nelson's description of Ben as "misguided" was mild in Vics opinion. Vic promptly called the insurance adjuster and advised they had better relent on the denial and get the claim settled. His next call was to Ben's cell. Vic was fuming, and it carried over slightly in his voicemail message.
"This is Vic Tanner. I want you in my office at 4:00 sharp. Do NOT miss this appointment."
Vic hung up the phone, his temper creeping to the boiling point. He made a quick call to Nelson to vent a little. Unfortunately, Nelson was busy with a patient so Vic had to settle for leaving yet another message. He was just getting buried in his own work again when Nelson returned his call.
"Hey, Nelson. Sorry to bother you at work...."
"No problem. Whats up?"
"Ben," Vic said simply.
"Oh, no," Nelson said, knowing only too well Bens ability to get into trouble. "What has he done?"
"Do you have time for lunch today?"
Nelson cringed, "That bad, huh? Sure, lets meet around 12:30. Ruby Tuesdays?"
"Thatll work for me. See you then."
The tops met at the designated location promptly at 12:30. Vic began to unfold the story after they were seated and Nelson listened with rapt attention. Vic managed to get out the whole tale between interruptions by the waitress. When Vic was finished, Nelson shook his head.
"Im sorry to have dragged you into this, Vic. You didnt need to waste your time."
"Its okay. I may have gotten the case anyway."
"Well, I still feel responsible. What are you going to do?"
"I left him a message with firm instructions to be at my office this afternoon. I didnt tell him I knew about the lie. I plan to clearly let him know I didnt appreciate it."
"You know what he needs, dont you?"
"He needs his tail worn out for him." Nelson nodded his agreement and Vic continued, "After today, Id like nothing better."
"I could easily see Zach pulling the same thing before we set out some ground rules and consequences."
"I dont exactly have the same luxury. Hes my client, not my partner."
"I know. But, its exactly what he needs, though."
"Why dont you take care of that for him, Nelson? Youve definitely had the experience."
Nelson almost spit his tea at Vics comments. Vic started to laugh at his sputtering friend. After Nelson got himself under control he said, "I dont have that luxury either as far as Ben is concerned. I dont know that hes ever been in a discipline relationship, and I dont think hed take kindly to having his bare bottom spanked. The way he acts makes me think it didnt happen much when he was growing up, if at all. Why dont you offer to do it for him?" Nelson asked with a grin.
"Id almost be willing to do just that. He needs someone to take him in and straighten him out."
Nelson noted the serious look on his friends face. "Youre not kidding, are you? Would you actually do that?"
"I dont know! I cant believe Id even think that. I barely know him, but hes got me all mixed up," Vic confessed. He rubbed his hand across his forehead in an attempt to erase the thought. "I need to stop thinking about it."
Nelson eyed his friend and thought maybe attraction was blocking his clear thinking. Time would tell.
Ben saw the number come up on his Caller ID and not recognizing it, let it go into voicemail. He had a bad day and was in no mood to talk to anyone, especially someone he did not know. What else could happen to him? He had heard bad things came in threes. After today, he had one left.
He had gotten into a fight with Professor Turner, by far his least favorite teacher. Turner made the mistake of calling on Ben today when Ben wasn't prepared. He was rarely prepared these days and he was sure Turner enjoyed embarrassing him in class.
"As usual, Mr. Monroe, you don't know the answer," Turner had said. "Why do you bother with this class? You barely come and when you do, you are severely unprepared."
"Why don't you try _f_u_c_k_ing yourself," Ben replied, temper and embarrassment taking over.
Not surprisingly, Turner did not appreciate the response.
He glared at Ben over his reading glasses, "See me after class, Mr. Monroe."
"No _f_u_c_k_in' way," Ben said as he got up to leave.
Turner raised his voice as Ben stormed toward the door.
"Very well, Mr. Monroe. But, if you want even a remote opportunity to continue attending this college, I would highly recommend you meet me at the dean's office tomorrow at 10:00."
Turner was to see the dean at that time for another matter, but decided it was more important to discuss this little scenario with him instead. He could reschedule to discuss the other issue, which paled in comparison.
Ben hurried from the classroom, face burning with rage and indignation. He gave the professor the finger behind his back as he exited the room.
By the time he got to his apartment, he was miserable and crying. He knew that the outburst coupled with his grades was not going to sit well with the dean. He didn't know what he was going to do. His life was a mess and seemed to be getting worse. He felt as if he were spiraling out of control.
He checked his cell and saw that the unknown caller had left a message. He checked it out of curiosity more than anything. His stomach clenched as he listened to the message from Vic. He didn't sound at all happy.
"Wonderful. Great day for me. Maybe this will be number three," Ben grumbled wondering what on earth had made Vic so mad. He looked at his watch and called Zach, hoping to catch him between classes.
"What's up?" Zach answered.
"My life is over."
"What?! I just saw you this morning and you were fine. Don't be so dramatic."
"Meet me for lunch at the cafe?"
Zach agreed and 15 minutes later they were sitting across from each other at the college cafeteria. Zach was eating a sub but Benji ate nothing. He had absolutely no appetite.
"Why would you say that to him? You know Turner is a hardass," Zach said around a mouthful of food.
"I don't know! It just came out. Now, I'm getting sued and most likely kicked out of school. What am I going to do?"
"I don't know," Zach said shaking his head. "I would call Nelson if it was me." Zach paused, thinking, "Do you want me to call Nelson for you?"
"No. He can't help me."
"He helps me."
"Yeah, he also spanks you," Benji hissed bitterly.
Zach flushed a shade of crimson. "Shut the _f_u_c_k_ up! If you ask me, you could use it yourself."
He immediately regretted the remark when he heard Zachs reaction. He said, "Sorry, Zach. I didn't mean to make you mad. I'm just upset."
"Well, don't take it out on me!" Zach said sharply.
"I SAID I'm sorry. What did you do to get on his bad side when I came over anyway?"
"Never mind," Zach said, not wanting to divulge details and embarrassed that Ben had picked up on the fact he had been in trouble.
Ben let it go. He supposed he wouldn't want to talk about it had it been him.
Remembering the brusque message from Vic, he changed his mind about calling Nelson, "Could you call him just to feel him out, see if Vic called him? On top of everything else, Vic left me a message and didn't sound terribly happy."
"Yeah, I could do that." Zach continued to eat his lunch.
"So, do it already! I'm dying here," Ben griped.
"Hold your water," Zach said as he wiped his mouth.
As if on cue, his phone began to ring.
Looking at the Caller ID he said, "Speak of the devil." Then clicking the talk button on his phone he said, "Hi, Nelson."
"Hi, sweet pea. How's your day?"
"Good. I'm just having lunch with Benji."
"Tell him I said 'hello'. I just wanted to let you know I may be about 30 minutes late tonight."
"Okay. We were just talking about Ben's big lawsuit. Have you talked to Vic to see how it's going?"
"No, and I wouldn't ask him about it if I did talk to him. That's between him and Ben."
"I guess you're right."
"Why, what's going on?"
_f_u_c_k_, his radar was good. Zach looked at Ben and rolled his eyes.
"Oh, nothing really, I guess. Vic just left Benji a message and told him he needed to come by the office today. We just wondered what it was about."
"I guess he'll find out when he gets there. I'll talk to you later, I've gotta run."
"See ya," he said to the phone, and then to Benji, "He doesn't know anything. Said you'd find out when you get to Vic's."
"Great," Ben said. He wasn't looking forward to facing Vic.
"I gotta get to class. Good luck and call me later to let me know what happened."
Ben dragged himself back home and tried to think of anything else. He tried TV, tried reading, nothing was working. He didn't see the need to go back to class since he was probably finished there anyway. Finally, it was time to leave for Vic's office.
He was once again shown the way by the receptionist, but this time Vic greeted him at the door taking him firmly by the upper arm. He marched him to a chair after soundly closing the door.
"Have a seat," he commanded as he firmly guided Ben into a chair.
"Hey! Who the _f_u_c_k_ do you think you are?!" Ben demanded standing to his feet, feeling like a scolded child.
"SIT DOWN!" Vic thundered above him, suddenly making Ben feel much shorter than his 5'10" height. He quickly realized this was a man not to be trifled with and clamped his smart mouth shut as he sat back down.
"I do NOT appreciate being lied to, young man. If there is ONE thing I cannot stand, it's lying. How dare you lead me to believe this accident happened some other way than the way it did?"
Ben was shocked and could do no more than blink at Vic with his mouth open. Vic settled on the edge of his desk with his arms crossed.
"It seems there are two witnesses who confirm the other party's story. That's three people - two of whom are disinterested parties - who give the same version. A version distinctly different from that of your own. Do you have any idea how much time I wasted on this case yesterday?" he paused, watching Ben squirm. "Would you like to explain yourself, young man?"
There was that title again - young man. Funny how literally young he did feel under Vic's wrath and admonition. He suddenly couldn't take any more and the tears began to fall.
It caught Vic totally off guard, his anger dissipating quickly. Instinctively, he began to speak soothingly to Ben and reached out again for his arm. This time, he pulled him to his feet and into a hug. Ben was surprised at the strength he found in Vic's arms and at his well-defined chest, deceivingly hidden by the suits he wore.
"It's all right, Ben. Shhhhh. Don't cry."
"I'm sorry...Don't hate me."
"I don't hate you, Benjamin. Don't worry. I'm going to take care of it."
Take care of it? Could he do that?
"It isn't worth crying over," he said as he continued to stroke Ben's back and hair.
"You don't understand. It's not just this. I've had a really bad day. I just can't take any more," he sobbed.
"What happened? Want to talk about it?"
"NO! I just want it to all be over. I want to go to bed and wake up with a clean slate and no problems. Now you hate me! Zach and Nelson will probably hate me, too, when they find out."
Vic's heart melted at the tears from the young man. Nelson was right. He was just misguided. In fact, he was not guided at all. He was out of control from what Nelson told him. Despite himself, he found he was drawn to the younger man.
He gripped Ben's chin, raising his face to look him in the eye. "Were you not listening to me? I do NOT hate you," he said firmly. "That doesn't mean I am at all happy with your behavior, but I don't hate you. As for Nelson and Zach, I think you've been friends long enough for them to forgive you."
Ben began to cry hard again, mostly from relief and guilt that, in spite of his lies, Vic was being nice to him. He was embarrassed to be crying in front of this virtual stranger, but couldn't stop.
Vic held him until he began to calm then said, "Listen, I don't have any more appointments today and nothing to do that can't be put off until tomorrow. Let's go get something to eat and chat, okay?"
"I'm not hungry," Ben said, a mantra Vic would get used to hearing in the future.
"You need to eat. Go in my bathroom and wash your face then we'll go," Vic gently pushed him toward the bathroom off from his office.
He didn't seem to take 'no' for an answer, Ben thought. Just like Nelson. No wonder they were friends. Ben managed to get himself under control, and then followed Vic out to his car.
"We'll take mine then come back for yours," Vic said hitting the auto locks button. They piled into the SUV and Ben took out a cigarette.
Vic saw it and immediately said, "No, sir. No smoking as long as you're with me. Buckle up," Vic said.
Still feeling guilty, Ben didn't want to do anything to further upset Vic so he put the cigarettes back and buckled his seatbelt.
"What are you doing with cigarettes anyway? Trying to kill yourself slowly?" Vic asked.
"I'd opt for a speedy death about now."
"It can't be as bad as all that. You aren't in jail or anything – yet," Vic joked, trying to lighten the mood.
They arrived at the restaurant and Vic took it upon himself to order two glasses of unsweetened tea.
"I want Dr. Pepper."
"Two teas, please," he reiterated to the waitress.
She looked between the men and decided to follow Vic's instructions. After she left, Ben's temper reared again.
"What was that?! I can order what I want and I wanted Dr. Pepper. I LIKE Dr. Pepper."
"Look, young man," Vic said, leaning up and putting his elbows on the table, "I'm sorry you've had a bad day, but I am still not happy with you. Watch your tone. You'll have what I want you to have when you're with me. You don't need the sugar."
There he went again, talking to him like he was a child. Ben was shocked and not happy, but somehow he was comforted by the control in this man he barely knew. Plus, Vic was a lot bigger so he shut up once again.
Vic softened, having gotten his point across. While they waited for their food, Vic prompted, "Now what was so bad about today?"
Hesitantly, Ben told him what happened with the teacher, giving him the high-level version and keeping it as vague as possible. He finished up with the fact that he had a meeting with the dean tomorrow morning and he was not hopeful he would remain a student at the college.
Vic instinctively knew there was more to the story than Ben divulged.
"Benjamin, I want the details, not your amended version."
Ben eyed Vic warily and then relented, filling in all the blanks.
"And then I sort of told him to _f_u_c_k_ himself and left," he concluded.
Vic just looked at him then slowly shook his head. He couldn't believe this boy. He was expertly destroying his chances at a successful life.
"Don't you know anything about respect? Is this how you want your life to be?"
"NO! It just happened. I couldn't help it!"
Vic quickly found his thoughts back on his lunch conversation with Nelson and he said, "Then you obviously need someone to HELP you help it."
Ben noticeably squirmed at Vics comment. Vic saw the shift and asked, "Wouldnt you agree you arent handling things very well on your own?"
Ben squirmed again, uncomfortable with this conversation and looked at the table, "I guess...."
"You guess? After everything thats happened lately, you dont know?"
Bens temper started to flare, "I know Im a screw up, all right?! Thats just the way it is. No one can help me help it."
Vic couldn't believe what he was about to propose and the warning signs were flashing in his mind. Impulse was not a Vic Tanner character trait but he found himself plugging along anyway.
"Benjamin, you are NOT a screw up and I do think you can be helped," Vic said then paused. Ben looked at him curiously and Vic forged ahead before he could change his mind. "I'm going to make you an offer and it will be up to you whether you want to take me up on it or not. Are you willing to listen?"
Ben hesitated, suspicious, but then mutely nodded his head, curious to know where this was going.
Vic continued when he saw the nod. "I will agree to go with you to the dean's office tomorrow and do what I can to keep you in school. But in return, you will have to agree to some changes in your life."
"Like what?" Ben asked cautiously.
"First, you will move in with me where I will monitor your school work and make sure you bring up your GPA."
"Move in with you?! You can't make me do that," Ben exclaimed.
He enjoyed his freedom and wasn't sure he would want this man, no matter how good he looked, around to watch his every move. He was bossy, just like Nelson.
"No, and I won't. This will be your decision, Ben. I am making the offer. My offer will be non-negotiable. A simple take it or leave it. My terms."
Ben settled back, mind churning.
"Why would I have to live with you?"
"That's the only way I can keep an eye on you and I WILL be keeping an eye on you. You will follow MY rules and agree to accept the consequences should you break them."
That was exactly why Ben thought he would have to move in. Suddenly, the last part of Vic's statement hit him.
"Consequences? What do you mean? You'll punish me?" Ben's stomach was clenching and he couldn't understand why.
Vic relaxed some when Ben continued to listen and didnt get up to leave. "I most certainly will. I have the distinct feeling that you haven't had anyone hold you accountable for your actions during your life and that would change. Immediately."
"How? What would you do to me?"
"Whatever I feel necessary to punish you and correct the behavior. If that means you get grounded, I'll ground you. If it means I wash out your foul mouth, then that's what happens..."
Ben's stomach continued to flip as he waited for what he fully thought would eventually be said, but not wanting to believe it until he heard Vic finish, "and if I think you need to have your bottom spanked, I will not hesitate to put you over my knees and spank you."
Ben's stomach took a dramatic turn toward his toes.
"NO WAY! You've been hanging around Nelson too long. There is no way I'm letting you spank me."
Ben dropped the volume on the last sentence so other people wouldn't hear. He wished Vic would do the same.
"That's up to you. If you decide to take me up on my offer, you can avoid being spanked by behaving yourself. Misbehave or disobey me and you will be spanked if I think you need it. I'll never spank you, or punish you any other way, if you don't earn it."
Vic stopped talking and let his words be absorbed. Ben was looking at him, mouth opened but nothing coming out. He was shocked.
Vic said, "Surely, you know you need discipline in your life or you wouldn't be in this position. I'm willing to provide that for you. You have until 8:00 tonight to decide. I'll give you my address before we leave. If you agree, be at my house by 8:00. If not, you're on your own and I wish you nothing but the best tomorrow. Your insurance company is going to handle your claim, so if you don't show up, you'll never have to see me again."
"Why are you doing this?" Ben asked.
Vic smiled at him, "Temporary insanity."
The waitress showed up at that moment with their food. Vic decided they should change the subject and get through dinner since Ben needed to go home and do some thinking.
Vic dropped him at his car but didn't leave before giving him directions to his house.
"Now, remember, 8:00 or nothing. If you decide to come, bring some clothes to last you a few days and we'll go this weekend and get the rest of your things. If I don't see you, good luck tomorrow."
Vic made sure Ben's car started with its crumpled front end then pulled away.
Ben was suddenly overwhelmed again. Why would this man be so kind to him especially after he lied about the accident? He acted as if he would be content no matter what Ben decided. Ben was tormented.
What if he said 'yes' then did something Vic felt was worthy of a spanking? He didn't know if he could handle that. He thought again about Zach's confusion after the first time Nelson spanked him. He had been on the party road with Ben before Nelson came along. He was now doing well in school and seemed happier than he was before Nelson became a part of his life. That was nearly a year ago.
Ben only had two hours to contemplate what to do. The thought of facing the dean alone was frightening. Even if Vic went with him it would be bad, but at least he wouldn't be alone. He doubted Vic could do anything to help anyway.
He was unable to stop the tears again and they flowed freely. He felt guilty about how he lied to Vic and how he had acted in school. He truly didn't like the professor but he didn't mean to let his temper get him kicked out of college. It was hopeless. With no other plausible options, he ultimately decided to go to Vic's. He would just make _d_a_m_n_ sure he didn't do anything to deserve a spanking.
At 7:55, Vic's doorbell rang. His own stomach flipped at the excitement of knowing Ben had decided to come. He couldn't help but be attracted to the younger man.
He went to the door and pulled it open looking into Ben's red and still wet eyes. He held a small overnight bag big enough for a few days' clothes.
"Is this a 'yes'?" Vic asked. The tears kept coming so Ben just nodded his head.
"Come here," Vic said and pulled him into a hug for the second time that day. "Stop crying. It's going to be all right, one way or the other."
Ben began to calm down in Vic's arms.
"Let me show you to your room," Vic said then gave him a quick tour as he led Benji to his new room.
It was spacious, much more so than the cramped quarters where he had been living.
"Get your things unpacked and change into your pajamas. Then come downstairs, I want to talk to you."
"Okay," Ben choked out. He was embarrassed that he had cried yet again in front of Vic. But, Vic didn't treat him at all differently because of it.
The phone rang and Vic left the room to answer it. Nelson was on the other end of the connection.
"So, did he show?" Nelson asked through the phone.
Vic had called Nelson after dropping Ben off to tell him about what happened at dinner. Nelson had to suppress a smile as he realized Zach might have been on to something after all. There was something there or Vic would have never made the offer. He couldn't have been that moved by a wayward youth.
"He did. He's upstairs unpacking now," Vic answered.
Nelson again found himself smiling. He knew Ben wouldn't have shown up if he didn't feel something himself. Of course, it could be he felt desperate, but Nelson didn't think so. Especially in light of the fact he was threatened with discipline.
"You are going to have your work cut out for you, my friend. I hope you're prepared for it," Nelson warned, remembering the early days with Zach.
"I know. I just can't help it. I feel sorry for him being mostly alone with no one who cares about him giving him any direction. He's dangerously close to ruining any opportunities he may have."
"I know. He's needed someone to take him in hand for a long time. If he came to you after what you proposed, he has definitely given you that right."
Vic heard Ben descending the stairs, "He's coming down, and Id better go see how he is. He looked like he'd been crying since I left him."
"It's guilt. He needs absolution. Take care of him, Vic. He's a good boy."
"I will."
He hung up as Ben rounded the corner of the living room. Vic was glad to see he had obediently put on his pjs, which consisted of pajama bottoms and a t-shirt.
Vic had not planned to punish Ben but as he looked at the tear-streaked face, Nelson's words rang in his head - "he needs absolution". He made a quick decision that he felt was in Ben's best interest, although Ben would surely disagree in about 10 minutes.
"Have a seat Benjamin," Vic said to him.
Ben took a seat on the sofa where Vic indicated.
He looked at the floor, further convincing Vic that the boy was being eaten alive with guilt over the recent events. He strengthened his resolve and crossed his arms looking down at Ben.
"We have several things to discuss, young man. First and foremost, is the fact that you lied to me. You may as well know now, that I will never fail to punish you when you do it. I will not put up with it under any circumstances. Is that clear?"
Ben swallowed hard and nodded his head. He had not yet learned that "discuss" was top language for "you're about to get your butt spanked and here's the reason why", but he still wiggled uncomfortably with the tone of the lecture.
"Answer me. Yes, sir or no, sir."
Ben dropped his head further, "Yes, sir," he whispered.
He couldn't believe how small he felt under Vic's gaze and having to call him "sir". He promised himself to never lie to Vic again.
"Then there is the problem of your foul mouth and lack of respect. English is not your second language so you should be able to find another way to express yourself without using the "f" word. Further, you will respect other people in your words and actions, especially when they are in a position of authority. That goes for your professors as well as me. Is that understood?"
"Yes, I mean yes, sir," Ben said as another tear escaped down his cheek.
"Finally, we need to discuss your grades. You WILL attend class and you WILL complete your assignments. Do you have a handheld organizer?"
Ben said, "Yeah."
"Yes, sir or no, sir."
Ben's cheeks flushed scarlet, "Yes, sir."
"Then you will document your daily assignments and I will make sure you get them done. Your assignments and chores will come first before anything else. Is THAT understood?"
"Yes, sir."
Vic paused and eyed the miserable young man before him, "I believe that covers everything."
He wanted to get on with the spanking and get it over with for both him and Ben. Meanwhile, Ben was feeling relief thinking the end of the lecture signaled the end any other unpleasantness about the day's events.
Vic's next statement dashed his hopes, "I think your behavior today and your lying need to be corrected. We may as well get it over with."
Ben's head snapped up at those words having expected nothing more than the lecture.
"What?! Get what over with?!"
"Your spanking. Get up, please," Vic said simply as he took a seat beside Ben on the sofa.
"NO! I don't want to be spanked. I've never been spanked before," Ben said, still protecting his bottom by sitting.
"Really? I'd have never known it by your behavior. Lucky for you, it doesn't require any prior experience. If this is your first spanking, then it is long overdue. Get up."
Ben continued to protest, "But you cant spank me for today. I just agreed to this arrangement less than an hour ago. I got into trouble earlier, BEFORE I agreed to this!"
"Ben, you agreed by coming here to do as I say and to be punished by me as I see fit. You knew before you came I would spank you if I thought you needed it. I told you that. I have decided you have earned a spanking and I intend to give you one."
The words penetrated his brain and he looked from Vic to the door, Vic to the door.
"What if I want to change my mind? Can I think about it?"
Vic swiftly arose and pulled Ben onto his feet by the arm. "There's nothing to think about. You came here for a reason and were willing to accept my decisions. You deserve a spanking, Ben. Youre going to get one if you stay. If you want to leave, feel free, but dont look back."
Even though Benji knew Vic might spank him at some point, he had no intention of getting one this quickly. He didnt think hed be crossing this bridge already. He struggled inside and Vic patiently waited.
Vic finally said, "Make a decision, Benjamin."
He knew he deserved to be punished for everything, just like Vic pointed out. That didnt mean he WANTED to be punished, and it especially didnt mean he wanted to be spanked. He thought about all the trouble he was in and what a mess his life had become with him in control of it. He wasnt sure he was making the right decision, but hoped things could get better with someone else at the helm. How bad could a spanking hurt anyway?
"Ill stay," he said quietly to Vic, knowing what it meant to stay.
"Youre sure? Last chance."
Ben nodded his response.
Vic sat back down ready to pull Ben across his knees. Even though he just agreed to it, Ben began instinctively to plead and struggle against the bigger man as he was pulled down ungraciously across the large, muscled thighs. Vic pushed the pajama bottoms down, then the underwear. Ben was struggling to reach back, futilely reaching for the waistband of his shorts, which were no longer where they were supposed to be. Ben couldn't believe this man just bared his bottom! He had no idea getting a spanking meant getting one on his bare backside. This could hurt a lot worse than he planned.
Vic clamped his arm around Ben's struggling waist effortlessly pinning him against his hard stomach. Ben felt like he was in a vice. His face flamed with embarrassment as he felt the cool air on his bottom, exposed and vulnerable. Before he knew what was happening, he felt the first stinging slap to his well-defined ass. He couldn't believe how much it hurt. And, he assumed there would be many more smacks to follow judging from the stern "talking to" Vic just delivered.
"OW! Please dont do this to...OW..." he yelled at Vic who managed to ignore the pleas, spanking Ben's bottom with a determination. He stopped when he heard Ben blurt out an angry "_f_u_c_k_ you".
"Well, young man, I guess you didn't hear me earlier when I said that kind of language would NOT be tolerated. That's part of the reason for this spanking, in case you forgot. Or, maybe I wasn't clear enough."
He began spanking again picking up the pace.
"There will be NO language like that in this house, is that clear? If I hear it again, you will get your mouth soaped and another spanking. Do you understand me?"
He was vigorously punctuating every other word or so with another powerful spank to Ben's rapidly reddening cheeks. Ben couldn't answer.
"DO you understand me?" Vic bellowed again from above him, his hand continuing to fall.
Ben didn't think he could get any words out, but realized Vic insisted on an answer. Ben was trying valiantly not to cry and as a result, had a huge lump in his throat.
He managed to choke out, "YES! Yes, ssiirrr...please...I won't curse...STOP!!"
Ben had a strong will but Vic was determined to break it. He continued to punish the wriggling bottom until Benji could no longer control the tears and the floodgates opened. Vic persisted with his mission until the protests stopped and the cries were repentant. He finished the spanking and rubbed Ben's back while he was still draped across his knees. Ben's brain finally registered that the attack on his bottom was over as he lay limply across the strong thighs crying and sobbing. His butt was on fire. It hurt more than he ever thought it could.
Ben was beginning to calm so Vic helped him to his feet and pulled his pants back up. More tears fell as the pajama bottoms and underpants were pulled back over his throbbing bottom. Vic held him tightly and continued to rub his back. He ultimately sat back down on the sofa pulling Ben down into his lap rocking him gently while the tears continued to fall.
Ben's butt hurt - bad. But, he had never felt so safe and cared for. He lost himself in Vic's embrace as the crying slowed.
"I'm sorry," he sniffed against Vic's shoulder.
"It's okay. One thing you will learn with me is that once we have dealt with something, that's the end of it. It's over, done. All is forgiven. Understand?"
"Yes, sir," Ben said hardly believing his ears.
Vic kissed the top of his head.
"I think it's time for bed. You've had a hard day and need your rest. Hop up."
Ben grudgingly got up from Vic's lap, immediately missing the warmth and comfort there. He still had the warmth in his behind, but it was far from comforting. Vic walked him upstairs and pulled back the covers on his bed. He tucked him in and pushed back the damp hair from Ben's forehead.
"You think you'll live?"
"My butt still hurts," Ben said pitifully, lying on his side.
Vic smiled at him and said gently, "It's supposed to hurt. That's why it works." He looked at the red eyes gazing up at him and his heart squeezed. "I care about what happens to you, Benji. I'm not going to stand by and let you ruin your life without doing something about it."
He leaned down and kissed Ben's forehead. "I'm right down the hall if you need anything, all right?
Ben nodded then added, "Yes, sir."
"Goodnight. Sleep well."
"Goodnight."
Once Vic had left, Ben switched on the light and crept over to the full-length mirror in his room and carefully pulled down his pants to survey the damage. He had to see if it looked as bad as it felt. It did. His bottom was scarlet. No wonder it hurt.
He tenderly replaced his underwear and pjs and crawled back into bed on his stomach, snapping the light off again. Even though his butt hurt, he no longer felt the weight of the guilt he had carried all day. He quickly fell asleep and slept better than he had in a long time.
As planned, Vic went with him to school the next day and after much persuasion, convinced the dean to let Ben stay in school. Ben had sincerely apologized to Mr. Turner and to the dean as he had been told to do.
Having taken care of the college situation, Vic insisted they stop by Nelson and Zach's later that night so Ben could apologize to them. Just like Vic had predicted, they forgave him and he got another hug from Nelson.
Zach slipped an arm around Nelson's waist at the window as they watched Ben and Vic pull away.
"I told ya. They're going to get together, I can just feel it."
Nelson smiled and returned the embrace. He turned Zach away from the window and kissed him.
"You may be right, Cupid. You may be right."
A year later, Ben was on track with his life and with a man he dearly loved. Zach had been right. He still didn't like being spanked, but like Vic promised, he never got one he didn't earn. He just tried to focus on not deserving one, albeit not always successfully. Vic looked at him approvingly as they approached another yellow light and Ben stopped.
"Good job," Vic said.
Ben looked at him and smiled.
"What are you thinking about? You seemed a million miles away," Vic observed.
"Nothing," Ben replied with a smile. "Everything. Us."
Vic returned the smile and took his hand. It was good to feel loved.