TRUE LOVE 3 [Chapter 8: Brand New]

The following weeks were amazing. I was happy again. My sessions with Doctor Nolan were helping me re-discover myself. My relationship with Cameron, my friends and my family was so much stronger. My parents got the keys to their building a few days after my first therapy session. With the help of Cameron, Natalie, Phillip, Larissa, Teddy and even Diane, we renovated the entire building. Just two days ago, the new sign was installed reading, “Ramirez & Sons – Homestyle Café”. The grand opening was in just three days. My mother was going to be the Chef and co-manager, my father the SueChef and manager. They appointed me lead server and hired eight staff including Larissa. Cameron was offered a position, but he was happy where he was employed. My father told him that if he ever wanted to just come in and work, he was more than welcome to.

            It was 7pm on a Friday night. I was waiting at the foot of the stairs for Cameron to come out of the shower.

“Babe?” he called out

“Downstairs.” I yelled up

“Hey…what’s up with this suit?” he said walking out to the landing in his towel holding up the suit on a hanger

He then caught a glimpse of me. I was wearing a matching suit. In my hand was a single red rose.

“What’s going on?” he smiled

“I want you to get ready. Come downstairs. I have a surprise for you.” I said

He giggled and ran back to the room. He was ready within twenty minutes. He walked down the stairs and met me at the bottom. I handed him the rose and gently kissed him on the lips.

“You look so handsome.” I said

“So do you. What is going on?” he urged me

“You’ll see. I have to put this on you.” I said placing a blindfold over his face and rested it on top of his head

“Babe…is this some kinky shit?” he laughed

“Not yet.” I whispered

We walked outside where a black limo was waiting for us.

“A limo?” he asked

“Get in. And put on your blindfold.” I said

We both got in and he pulled down his blindfold.

“You’re making me nervous.” He said

“Good. I want you to feel the way you made me feel when we first met.” I said

Within a few minutes, we arrived at our destination. I got out first and helped Cameron out. I tipped the driver and guided Cameron to the surprise. As soon as we got into position, I stood behind Cameron as he held onto his rose and untied the blindfold. As it dropped, I walked to his side to see the utter shock on his face. We stood in the middle of our high school gymnasium. It was decorated to resemble our high school prom. The lights were off with the exception of the disco ball and dance lights. A DJ was set up at the end of the gymnasium. Principle Hawkins stood close by as she walked up to us.

“Joey and Cameron. I hope you two enjoy your evening.” She smiled and hugged us both

“Thank you for all your help Principle Hawkins.” I told her

“Of course.” She said as she walked out of the gym closing the doors leaving us alone with just the DJ.

I pointed to the DJ and he began playing Beyoncé – XO.

Cameron smiled at me. I took his arm placing it around my waist and held him tight as we began to sway to the music. I felt Cameron shaking in my arms. I pulled back to see him crying.

“What’s wrong?” I asked

“I’m just surprised you did this for me?” he said

“I’d do anything for you. This is my small way of showing how much you mean to me.” I said smiling and wiping his tears

We leaned our foreheads against one another continuing to dance. We began to word the lyrics to the song. In the darkest night hour, Search through the crowd, Your face is all that I see, I'll give you everything, Baby love me lights out, Baby love me lights out, You can turn my lights out.  I love it like XO, You love me like XO, You kill me boy XO, You love me like XO, All that I see, Give me everything, Baby love me lights out, Baby love me lights out, You can turn my lights out.

The song was followed my Fireworks, by Katy Perry. We enjoyed our “prom reboot”. It gave us the spark to put us both in the right path again. A path to true happiness. I had only requested the gym for two hours, which was plenty of time for us to dance and reconnect. But the surprise wasn’t over. We walked to the parking lot of the school where I had left my car. We got in and I drove us downtown to the Hilton. Once we arrived, I got out and walked around to open the door for Cameron. We stepped into the lobby and to the front desk together.

“Checking in, Joey Ramirez.” I said

“Yes sir. I see your reservation here. You will be on the seventh floor in suite 708.” She handed me the keys

“Perfect.” I smiled

We walked to the elevator and hit the top floor button.

“How did you get the exact same room?” Cameron asked

I simply smiled and grabbed his hand. We exited the elevator and walked towards our room. We entered and without saying a word, Cameron pinned me against the wall as the door closed. He kissed me with such passion. He began to unbutton my vest and shirt. I did the same in anticipation. We stumbled as we pulled off our shoes trying to kiss. We finally got our shirts off and shuffled to the bed where Cameron pushed me down. He unzipped his pants and pulled them down. His hard penis flopped up against his stomach before bouncing straight out. He then leaned over to rip off my pants. He was about to go down on me, when I stopped him.

“What’s wrong?” he asked

“No.” I said

“No?” he asked

“Last time, you took the lead…this time…I get to drive.” I smiled

He smiled as I pulled him onto the bed and kissed him. I ran my tongue from his chin, down his neck and circled his nipples. I sucked on each one before I trailed his abs to his pelvic bone. I ran my tongue around the base of his penis and licked his scrotum. He took a breath through his teeth in pleasure. I then licked the shaft to the perfect head of his penis and gently placed my wet lips around it. I ran my hands up his thighs to his stomach and finally rested them on his chest. I clenched his pecks as I began to suck on his girth. He shivered with enjoyment. I ran my hands from his chest down to his sides and finally around his back to his ass. I gently lifted his ass, forcing him to arch his back as his penis drilled further down my throat. He groaned.

“Fuck, babe.” He muttered

After attempting to swallow his penis, I turned him over and began to eat him out. My tongue tickled the outer area of his anus. His beautiful firm and plump ass was perfect. I loved it. Cameron was very clean and neat about body hair, although he had very little of it, he made sure his entire body was smooth where it counted. I ran the tip of my tongue up and down his smooth crack. I placed my lips around his anus and created suction. He yelped in pleasure. I then forced my tongue into him.

“Ahhh.” He moaned into the bed

He placed his hand behind my head pushing my face and tongue along with it, deeper into his ass. After getting him moist enough, I stood up and placed the tip of my penis against his ass.

“I want you inside me baby.” Cameron said breathlessly

I pulled Cameron towards the edge of the bed as I stood up. I placed his legs straight up, with his ankles against my shoulders. I slowly began to penetrate him. I looked down watching the head of my penis disappear into his perfect body. Once the head entered, the rest of my shaft followed. He took every inch of it like a champ. His smooth balls began to bounce as I thrusted into him. His hard dick flopped on his six pack and my sack slapped against his plump ass cheeks. With one hand, he gripped the blanket of the bed and with the other he stroked himself. I grabbed his right leg and licked his lower leg near his ankle. I looked down again to watch my penis rapidly entering and exiting his ass. The sight of me penetrating Cameron got me even more aroused. My abs would flex with every thrust.

“Fuck me harder.” He grunted

I happily obliged as I lifted my leg onto the bed to anchor myself and pulled him deeper onto my cock. Cameron moaned louder. I was hunching over him slightly as Cameron’s left leg was bent over his stomach. I was penetrating him deep. I looked over at him and looked at his beautiful face. He was in complete bliss. He then opened his eyes and looked at me. I leaned over to kiss him as if with the touch of his lips, a spark of orgasmic pleasure rushed upon us.

“I’m gonna come.” I said

“Go…come babe!” he said

I pounded the last few times hard and deep dumping what felt like a month’s worth of sperm into him. Cameron also came a lot. The most I’ve seen in a while. He had squirted not only on his stomach and chest, but the pillows behind him.

“That was fucking amazing. The best.” Cameron said out of breath

“The best?” I smiled

“Yeah.” He responded

“Better than that time I came home on X?” I asked

“Fuck yeah. This had passion.” Cameron said

We kissed one another, got up and cleaned ourselves off. We got dressed and decided to leave the hotel. Why stay there…when we had a home to go to.

            Two days later, we got up early and met at the restaurant. It was Grand Opening day. There was an ad in the paper and many of our friends and old co-workers came. Principle Hawkins was there, Doctor Nolan, The doctor at the hospital, Teddy and his cousins, even Brad was there. I stood near the front doors of our restaurant with my mother on my left and my father on my right. Off to the side was our staff. Cameron stood in the crowd, but my dad gestured to him to come join us. He did and stood next to me. In front of us was a red ribbon. The newspaper was there along with a local news station. There had to have been at least one hundred people there.

“I want to thank you all for coming out to the Grand Opening of Ramirez & Sons.” My dad began, “Long ago, I had aspired to open a restaurant with my wife and son as a family. I’m fortunate enough to have them both here in support of this dream. Not only are my family here, but the friends we’ve made here in Depoe Bay are here as well. I’d like to dedicate this restaurant to my sons…Joey and Cameron.”

Everyone began to clap. I could see Diane in the front tearing up. Cameron waved as my dad placed his arm around him.

“Without further ado…welcome!” he said snipping the ribbon

Two of the servers opened the double doors as many of the people in the crowd began to line up to enter. Cameron and I let the crowd go in as we walked off to the side of the building. He grabbed onto both of my arms and pulled me in for a kiss.

“What was that for?” I asked

“I don’t need a reason to kiss you.” Cameron said

“No you don’t.” I smiled

“Your dad…he’s made me feel so welcomed.” He said

“I’m glad. You are family.”

“I’d like it to be official.” He grinned

“Huh?” I asked

“I’d like to call your parents my in-laws one day.” He said

“Really?” I asked

“Of course. I’m crazy about you, Joey.”

“I’d like that.” I said

“When I said Forever…I meant it.” Cameron smiled

We kissed again as a cool breeze from the ocean flowed between us and through our hair. It was a sign that the seasons were changing. We were ready to take on the next chapter of our lives…together.

© 2016 Copyright J.M. Casas Jr. of Royalty Novels / The True Love Saga. All Rights Reserved.

All characters and likeness are pure fiction. Any resemblance is pure coincidence. Models and Actors used in marketing material for the True Love Saga were used as inspiration and to provide readers with an image of what the characters may look like.

TRUE LOVE 3 [Chapter 7: The Orange Door]

The following Wednesday, Cameron drove me to my appointment with the therapist. We got out of his Lexus and walked up to a three story office building. Inside was an information desk.

“Hello. I’m looking for Doctor Nolan’s office.” I asked

“Doctor Nolan’s office is on the second floor, suite 211.” The woman smiled

“Thank you.” I said as we walked up the stairs following her directions

We came up to suite 211, walked in to find someone else waiting in the room. A woman behind a desk greeted us.

“Hello. Do you have an appointment today with Dr. Nolan?” she asked

“Yes. My name is Joseph Ramirez.” I told her

“Right on time. He should be done with his current patient momentarily. Please fill out these forms while you wait.” She handed me a clipboard and a pen

“Okay. Thanks.” I said

            As we waited, I answered the questionnaire. It asked random things such as my childhood, habits and emotional scale. Cameron mentioned to answer them honestly, which I did.

“Here you go.” I said handing the woman at the desk the clipboard

“Okay. Thank…” she paused, “Oh. Here comes Dr. Nolan now.”

A man walked out of the door to the waiting room followed by what I assume was another patient. She shook his hand and smiled. The gentleman who was in the waiting room with us, got up and walked out with her.

“You must be Joey?” he pointed at me with a smile

“Hi. Yes.” I said greeting him with a handshake

“And is this your partner?” he asked gesturing to Cameron

He stood up and shook the doctor’s hand.

“I’m Cameron Harris. Thank you for seeing Joey, doctor.” He said with a grin

“Of course, of course. I’ve scheduled you for an hour session. Cameron, if you like you can come back or you can lounge here in our waiting room.”

“Oh. I’ll come back. I have to go run a few errands anyways.” He said

“Sure. Joey is in good hands.” He smiled

“I’ll be back babe. I love you.” He said leaning in to kiss me on the lips

“I love you too.” I kissed him back

“Follow me this way.” The doctor motioned to his back office

We walked down a narrow hall that displayed abstract art and ink blots. At the end of the hall was a plain door painted orange. We walked through the orange door and into his office. I sat down in the chair across from him. He pulled out a file with my name on it and a notepad.

“So, Joey. Let me review a few things I have noted here and if there are any discrepancies, just let me know and I’ll make note of it here on your file.” He said

“Okay.”

He began to read off my general information, date of birth, the year I graduated, parents name, favorite color and even medical questions.

“I have here a police report with a description of the night you were admitted to the hospital. No we don’t need to get into that specifically right now. But I would like you to just share anything on your mind. Anything that has been bothering you that has you worried, or stressed, or even sad?” he asked

I shrugged. Not knowing where to start or even what to say.

“Joey.” He said taking off his glasses, “As a professional, I am not here to judge you. I am here to give you my professional opinion and suggestions. It’s only up to you if you want to act on my opinions. You were sent to me because your loved ones worry you will fall into a path of destruction. I want to guide you down the right path, but it’s a path that you need to be clear of yourself. In order for me to help guide you, I need you to participate. Everything we discuss stays within these walls. Nobody else will ever hear of what we talk about. That is a promise I have never broken.” He smiled

I nodded.

“Good. So share your thoughts.” He asked again

“I don’t feel like myself.” I said bluntly

“How so?” he asked

“Two years ago, Cameron and I went through a rough patch. We broke up for a few months.” I began

“What happened during those months you were split apart?” he asked

“I met someone else.”

“Someone…you loved?” he asked

“No. Someone I lusted after.” I admitted

“Do you…miss this lust?” he asked

I gulped and looked into the doctors eyes.

“Every day.” I answered

“Is the passion between you and Cameron not as strong?” he asked

“It used to be. And even recently…when I was…” I hesitated

“Using?” he asked

“Yes. It was like nothing I ever felt before. Everything just felt so much better. I was happy. Not a care in the world.” I said

“And when you say…you were happy…why were you not happy before?” he asked

“I was.” I clarified

“Were you?” he questioned me

“I…I think so.”

“Try to remember.” He said making notations

“Cameron made me happy. But…I was miserable outside of my relationship. I had a shitty job, daily routines in my life and a horrible relationship with my father.”

“Let’s talk about that.” He said

“My dad?” I asked

“Yes.”                                                                                                         

“Oh. We’re fine now. We resolved our problems at dinner during Father’s day.”

“So were you talking before?” he asked

“Hardly.”

“What did you resolve?” he asked

“Everything.”

“What specifically?” he asked again

“Well…how he treated me. How he didn’t want anything to do with me after finding out I was gay and disowning me and not even acknowledging Cameron.”

“He specifically apologized for that?” he asked

“Well…not exactly.”

“I see.” He said writing down on his notepad

“Did I say something wrong?” I asked

“Wrong? No, never. Whatever you say in this room isn’t wrong or right. It’s neutral. We share thoughts and ideas to help each other out.” He said

“Oh. Okay.”

“We’ll return to your father, let’s get back to the part about your new lust interest.”

“Well, his name was Nick. He used to be a school bully, but I found out that he was secretly in love with me.”

“And you didn’t feel the same way?” he asked

“No, not exactly. I realized that I was using him. He made me not think about Cameron.”

He wrote down more notes.

“Can I ask? What are you writing?”

“Topics of discussion. It helps me piece together things, gaps.” He said

“Oh. Is there a pattern you see, yet?”

“Indeed.” He said

“Can you please tell me?” I asked

“I usually like to get to know the patient a little better before I start assessing the matter and offering opinions.” He said

“Please. If you have anything that can help me today. I would appreciate it.” I begged him

He looked down at his notepad and stood up. He came over to the coffee table in front of me and sat down.

“Joey. I’m seeing signs of depression.” He said

“Depression? I don’t feel depressed.” I said

“It’s not a deep depression. But you can potentially build a depression deep enough to send you spiraling.” He said

“But why would I do something so careless as doing drugs?” I asked

“Nick.” He said

“Nick?”

“Just as you were using Nick to fill the void of missing Cameron, you were doing the same with seeking drugs. To change how you felt. It has nothing to do with lust or sex.”

“But…I’m with Cameron now. Why would I need to fill the void with him?” I asked

“That’s due to your father. You seem to have underlying issues in trying to please others. You want to please everyone…but the person you don’t seem to please…is yourself.” He said

Shit. He’s right.

“When you decided to take drugs, you did it because you had the desire to be someone else. Someone reckless, someone daring.” He continued, “Is there anyone in your life that is like that?” he asked

“Oh…well.” I began, “I recently met one of Cameron’s friends. He seemed care free and was just enjoying life.” I said

“Would you like my professional opinion now?” he asked

“Yes, please.”

“Stop trying to be like others. You have a loving partner, a newly founded relationship with your father and friends who care deeply about you.”

I smiled at him.

“You’re right. When Cameron and I first got together…we hadn’t made love at all. We just enjoyed each other’s company. It was a simple kind of love, but it gave me butterflies every time I was around him.” I said

“See. You know what the problem is. You just need to voice it and fix the problem. You’re smart Joey. It’s good to come out of your comfort zone, but don’t forget who you are.” He said pointing at my chest

            Our discussion was really helping me see things clearly. We continued to discuss things in further detail. I was discovering so much that I had closed off in the back of my mind. It felt so good to just blurt it out. The hour session drew to a close. It flew by so fast. He scheduled to meet with me in two weeks. He told me that I ever needed to see him on an emergency, to call his cell phone. This was going to be the start of a new day.

© 2016 Copyright J.M. Casas Jr. of Royalty Novels / The True Love Saga. All Rights Reserved.

All characters and likeness are pure fiction. Any resemblance is pure coincidence. Models and Actors used in marketing material for the True Love Saga were used as inspiration and to provide readers with an image of what the characters may look like.

TRUE LOVE 3 [Chapter 6: Father's Day]

It had been a week since my release from the hospital. I was ready to get back to my routine. I had an appointment with a counselor next week. Until then, Cameron was on watch duty since he had taken a week off work. I had to grain his trust back and I was okay with that. While I was at work, Larissa promised Cameron that she would watch over me. I arrived at work and walked in the front door. Before I could reach the break room where the timeclock was, my manager called me into his office.

“How are you feeling?” he asked

“Better, thank you.” I said

“Joey…” he began, “I received word that the reason you missed work was due to a drug related incident.”

“Oh, I…” I tried to explain

“Oh, no. I don’t need you to say anything right now. I just wanted to remind you that there is no tolerance for drug use within the bank. It’s against the policy of the corporate standards. Unfortunately I was forced to make a decision.” He paused

I took a deep breath.

“I’m going to have to let you go.” He said

“I understand.” I said stone faced

“I’m very sorry. I need you to sign a couple documents showing that we’ve discussed your termination and that you have received your final paycheck, which I have right here.” He pulled out a folder with the papers in it

I leaned over to sign the papers. He handed me a small envelope with my check in it.

“I wish you all the best of luck, Joey.” He said

I nodded. I didn’t want to speak, for fear of bursting out in tears. I walked of his office and headed towards the front doors.

“Joey.” Larissa called out.

I stood at the exit, frozen. I closed my eyes as tears streamed down my face. I shook my head and continued to walk out. I quickly got in my car and sobbed like a baby. I called Cameron. Hopefully he was still at home.

“Hello?” he answered

“Cameron.” I cried

“What’s wrong?!” he asked concerned

“I got fired!” I shouted

“What! Are you still there?” he asked

“I’m in my car in the parking lot.” I clarified

“Okay, well hold on. I’ll be there right now.”

Cameron hitched a ride with Phillip. They both came to my driver side door and hugged me at the same time as I continued to cry. I don’t know why I was taking it so hard. I felt like my life was falling apart. Phillip took off as Cameron got in my car to drive me back home. He was able to take one more day off from work. I felt so bad, but I’m glad he was there to comfort me. Most of the day, I slept resting my head on his lap while in the living room. I had it so good with Cameron. I put him through so much crap in the four short years we’ve been together. After everything we’ve gone through so far, he is still madly in love with me. The next day, Natalie was off work and had agreed to, the term I used, babysit me. I realized that Father’s day was coming up this Sunday. My mom had invited me over for dinner. She promised that my dad was going to be on his best behavior. I wasn’t sure if I was ready for this.

            Sunday finally arrived. Cameron drove us to my parents’ house. I was fidgeting in my seat.

“Baby, relax.” He said holding my hand

“I’m nervous. Last time I was here it…” I suddenly stopped myself

“It’s when you were with Nick.” Cameron said

“Yeah.” I said in a low tone

“It’s okay babe. I’m not Nick. And this won’t be anything like that time.”

We drove up to the house in the woods and got out. My mother opened the door greeting us with a hug and kiss on the cheek each. My dad was coming down the stairs as we entered the living room.

“Dad.” I said

“Joey.” He said nodding at me, “Cameron.” He greeted him with another nod

“Happy Father’s day.” I said walking up to him and shaking his hand

“Thank you for coming.” He said flatly

“Happy Father’s day sir.” Cameron said shaking his hand with a smile

“Mhm.” He said nodding again

Well…so far so good I guess. We walked to the dining room, where my mom prepared roast beef with scalloped potatoes, white bread rolls, steamed rice and apple pie.

“everything looks great mom.” I said

“Dig in.” she said

“I’d like to say a prayer.” My dad said

“Jesus.” I said in a low tone

“Oh, did you want to pray?” my dad asked thinking I was starting to pray

“Oh…no. Sorry. Go ahead.” I said

“Heavenly Father, Please bless the food we are about to receive. Bless those who are without food today and those not fortunate to spend time with the ones they love…”

I opened my eyes in shock. I looked up at my mother and Cameron who both were in shock.

“…Thank you Lord, for looking after my son. Keeping him on this earth.” He began to choke up, “For opening my eyes to the sin’s I have committed. Thank you for giving me the chance…to say…I’m sorry.” He said looking up at me with tears in his eyes

I got up from the table and walked over to him. He stood up to meet me and hugged me tightly. He sobbed into my shoulder. I couldn’t help but break down as well.

“Dad.” I sobbed, “Thank you.”

“I was so scared I was going to lose you.” He cried

From the corner of my tear filled eyes I could see Cameron and my mother wiping their tears of joy away. My father released me and looked at me, “I love you.” He said

“I love you too, dad.” I smiled with tears still rolling down my cheek

“Come here.” He gestured to Cameron

Cameron at first unsure, hesitated and then got up walking around to my dad. My dad opened his arms. They hugged and it brought warmth to my body. I was so moved with emotion.

“This is long overdue, but I’m so blessed to have someone like you love and care for my son.” He said

“Thank you sir.” Cameron smiled

“Call me Joe.” He smiled

We all collected ourselves and began to eat my mother’s amazing home cooked meal. Maybe it was a combination of the food and what just happened, but I realized everyone at the table was smiling. After dinner, we sat around the table to let our food settle so we could eat a piece of pie.

“I have some news to share.” I said a little unsettled

“Oh. So do we!” my mother said with excitement

“You do? Good news or bad news?” I asked

“Good news. You?” my mother asked

“Bad news.” I said

“Well, then you go first.” My mother urged me

“Okay…” I said nervously, “I was fired from my job a few days ago.”

“What? Why?” my dad asked

“Because they found out why I was in the hospital.” I said

“They can’t do that!” my dad said with frustration

“They already did.” I said trying to compose myself

“Don’t worry, Joey. I know where you can find a job.” My mother smiled

“Where?” I asked

“With us!” she said barely able to contain her excitement

“At the school?” I said confused

“No…at our new restaurant!” she squealed

“What! You guys got approved?” Cameron asked ecstatic

“Yes, we found out yesterday!” my dad said

“Congratulations!” I said with a smile

“Yeah, now you can come run it with us. It’ll be a family business.” My dad suggested

“Oh…dad, that sounds great. But you know they always say not to work with family.”

“Screw that. I’m sure it will bring us closer. Besides, we hardly see you. Maybe this will be good. Besides, it could be yours when we are ready to retire.” My dad said

“Are you guys sure?” I asked

“Yes! Let’s do this together!” my mom said

A huge weight lifted off my shoulders. For one, I was excited for both of my parents finally living their dream of owning a restaurant and two; I wasn’t going to be without a job for very long.

“What are you going to call it?” I asked

“Well, we thought about it and your father and I agreed to a name that has meaning.” My mother said

“We’re calling it…Ramirez & Sons.” My father smiled

“Sons?” I asked my dad confused

“Yes…Sons.” He said looking at Cameron

I stared at Cameron. His face filled with emotion. He had a lump in his throat which is seemed to struggle swallowing. I know this hit Cameron like a ton of bricks. His own father didn’t care to reach out to him and was too busy living his life elsewhere with his new family.

“Thank you.” Cameron stuttered over a shaky voice

My dad stood up and walked over to Cameron. He stood up and hugged my father tightly.

“You’re family.” He said rubbing his back in comfort

© 2016 Copyright J.M. Casas Jr. of Royalty Novels / The True Love Saga. All Rights Reserved.

All characters and likeness are pure fiction. Any resemblance is pure coincidence. Models and Actors used in marketing material for the True Love Saga were used as inspiration and to provide readers with an image of what the characters may look like.

TRUE LOVE 3 [Chapter 5: Help]

What the fuck happened? Everything was dark. I heard chaos. There were sirens. Why couldn’t I see anything? There was also sobbing over the commotion. I heard someone screaming my name. There was a rhythm of pressure on my chest. Someone saying, “Everybody stand back! CLEAR!”

            I woke up to the sound of a rhythmic beep. My body was aching. I felt something covering my face. As I forced my eyes to open, I realized I was in a hospital bed. I looked down at my arm to find an IV attached to it. I was hooked up to machines and a breathing mask. I looked to my left to find Cameron sleeping in the corner chair. Before I could try to get up, a nurse walked in.

“Oh no you don’t. You lay right back down.” She said

“What happened?” I asked

“The doctor will be right in to talk to you.” She said writing on her clipboard

“Hey, babe.” Cameron said waking up to our voices

He stood up and walked towards me.

“How are you feeling?” he asked holding my hand

“Thirsty.”

“Here, drink some water.” The nurse gave me a small plastic cup filled with ice water

As I finished the cup, the doctor walked in.

“Okay. Glad to see you awake, Mr. Ramirez. Do you know where you are?” he asked

“The hospital.” I said

“You know who this is?” he pointed to Cameron

“My boyfriend.” I said

“You know his name?” he asked again

“Cameron Harris.”

“How about the day?” he asked

“Sunday night? No…Monday morning?”

“It’s Tuesday.” He responded

“What?” I asked in shock

“It’s okay. I just need you to stay calm. What is the last thing you remember?” he asked

Shit. I’m not even sure. I knew for sure that I had gone to Mike’s house to score drugs. But after that, I wasn’t sure if everything else was just my imagination. Fuck. I kind of remember being on the floor and…oh no. Please don’t tell me that I slept with Mike. I hope I didn’t go down on him. I couldn’t remember.

“Joey?” Cameron urged me

“I went for a run.” I said

“Then what happened?” he asked

“I went to a friend’s house.”

“What friend?” the doctor asked

“Mike.” I said

“Did anything happen at Mike’s house?” the doctor continued

Just as I was about to answer, two officers walked in the room.

“Doctor.” The nurse alerted him

“We’ll take it from here, Doc.” Said one of the officers

“Joey? Joey Ramirez?” the officer asked

“Yes?”

“I’m officer Sheldon, this is officer Kentwood. We have a few questions we’d like to ask you.”

“Okay.” I said flatly

“How do you know Mike?” Officer Sheldon asked

“I ran into him at a club.” I said

“How long have you known him?” he continued

“Not very long.”

“Give us an exact time frame.”

“One day.” I said

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Cameron’s head spin directly towards me. Shit.

“What is the last thing you remember at Mike’s” he asked

“We were just sitting around talking.” I could feel Cameron’s hand beginning to loosen its grip

“Did you guys, take anything?” the officer asked

I stayed silent for a minute. I was so scared. What would the outcome be if I told the truth? Would it be worse if I lied?

“We did some coke.” I confessed

“How much?” he asked

“Just one line.” I said

Cameron had removed his hand from mine and stood up beginning to pace. He then pulled out his cell phone and walked out of the room. Oh my God. This wasn’t good.

“Are you positive?” he asked

“I’m pretty sure.”

“Nurse. Do you mind shutting the door?” he asked her

The nurse complied. I was getting nervous.

“Don’t worry Joey. Just stay calm.” The doctor said reassuring me

“Did you and Mike conduct sexual intercourse during your meeting?” through the blinds of my bedroom window facing the hall of the hospital, I could see Cameron turn around to see what my response was. The officer was close enough to the door allowing Cameron to hear what was going on still.

“I’m not sure.” I said shaking my head unsure

“Would you like us to fill you in on what happened?” the doctor asked

“Yes please.” I said as a tear rolled down my face

“It seems that after you had taken your first dose of cocaine, you began to hallucinate. Mike engaged you to perform oral sex on him. By the DNA sample we took from inside your mouth, we were able to determine, that you did in fact have oral sex. Mike explained that you continued to do additional lines of cocaine. While Mike only took one, you seemed to have taken up to three lines. This is a deadly dosage. Not only for a first time drug user, but because the cocaine was laced with other household chemicals making it stronger and more toxic to the brain.”

I wanted to break down in tears. How could I have been so stupid. I held back the tears as they sat in my eyes. My bottom lip began to quiver.

“Mike called 9-1-1 when you passed out and began to have convulsions. Mike called a mutual friend of yours who then called Mr. Harris. The ambulance picked you up and performed CPR on you as it seemed you had stopped breathing. At one point, your heart also stopped.”

“What? I died?” I asked in shock

“Momentarily, yes.”

“Where is Mike at now?”

“He’s being booked.” The officer said

“Will I go to jail?” I asked

The officers looked at one another and then the doctor.

“Since this your first offense and you were not in possession of the drugs. You will not be taken in, however. You will be fined and charged with a misdemeanor crime. You can lower the fine by exercising community service.”

“I’ll do anything.” I said

“The best thing to do now. Is to get on a clean path.” The officer suggested

“Thank you officers.” I said they shook the doctor’s hand and left the room

I noticed Cameron’s eyes were fixed on me. He looked upset, scared and uncertain all at the same time. He then simply walked away down the hall. I wanted to cry. I fucked up. Why was I being so reckless? A few minutes later Cameron returned with his mother, who worked at the hospital with him.

“Oh, Hun. Are you okay?” she asked checking my vitals

“Hi Diane. Yeah. I’m okay I think.” I said staring at Cameron

“What made you do something like that?” she asked

I just shrugged. I heard noise out in the hall. Suddenly Natalie, Phillip, Larissa, Teddy and my mother rushed into my room.

“Joey!” My mother said with tearful eyes

“Mom.” I said with a shaky voice as she hugged me

“Don’t you ever do anything like that again!” she said looking into my eyes

Tears rolled down her face. I was so happy to see her; I was however upset to see my father hadn’t come.

“Where is dad?” I asked

“You’re father had to work.” She made up an excuse for him

“Joey. I’m so glad you’re okay. Larissa said hugging me

“Thank you for coming.” I said

“I can’t stay long. I’m on my lunch.” She said in her bank uniform, “I’ll swing by after work.”

“Okay.” I said as she darted back out of the room

“Cameron called your Job and explained there was an emergency.” Natalie said

“Thank you.” I said holding out my hand for his

He just stood there not moving. He didn’t even attempt to reach for me.

“Why don’t we give the boys some time to talk?” Diane said

“I’ll be in the waiting room.” My mother said waving at me

Diane closed the door behind me. Cameron started to pace in front of the hospital bed.

“Please talk to me.” I said

“I can’t.” He said calmly

“I’m sorry.” I said

“That isn’t good enough.” He responded

“What can I do to make it better?” I asked trying to fight back tears

“Get help.” He said

“I’m not an addict.” I said

He just stared at me. Even I didn’t believe myself at this point. Yes. I only did drugs twice. But if I was so easily attracted to the idea of drugs and thought I could handle it, maybe I was an addict? Or potential addict?

“Please.” He pleaded

“Okay.” I said

“What?” he asked unsure if he heard me right?

“Okay. I’ll get help.” I said

“Good. This isn’t you.” He said

“I know.”

“You don’t even look like yourself.” He added

“I don’t?”

He picked up a mirror from the nurses station and brought it to me. I stared at the person in the reflection. Oh my God. He was pale, had a two day five o’clock shadow, messy hair, chapped lips and droopy eyes.

“Is this who you want to be?” he asked with a tear rolling down

“No.” I said shaking my head

After we talked, Cameron gathered everyone back in the room. He told them that I had agreed to seek help.

“Teddy.” I said calling for his attention

“Yeah?” he asked nervously

If I wanted to, I could put him on the spot. Blame him; tell Cameron that he came onto me, that he gave me ecstasy, that he was my reference in contacting Mike. But instead, I wanted to show my appreciation.

“Thank you.” I said, “When Mike called you, you called Cameron immediately after. Thank you for that.” I said

“Oh….you’re welcome.” He grinned

“I have one more confession to make.”

Everyone looked nervous, especially Teddy.

“I took ecstasy.” I confessed

“What?” Natalie said in shock

“The night I went out with Larissa. I found a pill in…”

“Your wallet.” Cameron finished my sentence

“How did you know?” I asked in shock

“Because I found the empty bag and note in your wallet after you fell asleep. I knew something was up after we had that amazing yet rough fuu…” he stopped suddenly remembering both our mothers were in the room, “uuhfiesta.”

I knew what he was talking about obviously.

“I’m sorry I lied to you.”

“Did you get it at the club that night?” he asked

“No. It was in there when we got back from Newport.” I admitted

“And you held onto it?” he asked

“Yes. I was afraid you would accuse me of using.” I said

“I wouldn’t have been wrong though.” He pointed out

“I know.”

The doctor returned breaking through the crowd of people inside my room.

“Good news. You’ll be released tomorrow morning. The officers will pick you up and escort you to the station to do the paperwork, and then you can get home and get some rest. I’ll write a recommendation for your job that you take a week off work.”

“Thank you doctor.” Cameron and I said

© 2016 Copyright J.M. Casas Jr. of Royalty Novels / The True Love Saga. All Rights Reserved.

All characters and likeness are pure fiction. Any resemblance is pure coincidence. Models and Actors used in marketing material for the True Love Saga were used as inspiration and to provide readers with an image of what the characters may look like.