Are You Lonesome Tonight?

©2009, 2012 Michael J Clark. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 11/5/2012

ISBN: 978-1-4389-4877-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4389-4878-2 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4685-7856-0 (e)

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

ARE YOU LONESOME TONIGHT?

BY

Michael J Clark

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

This book is dedicated to my late great best buddy Derek (Del) Hollington.

Forty years of laughter and loyalty.

Time is here and then it’s not,

sometimes you’ll remember good times you forgot.

For this is the present soon to be past,

it seems to go slowly but time goes so fast.

So enjoy your today for yesterday’s gone

and tomorrow’s already coming along.

Yes time’s always moving and passing us by,

till we are but a star, looking down from the sky.

CHAPTER 1

This story begins way back in mid-fifties America, with the emergence of rock n’ roll driven by such enigmatic stars as Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Buddy Holly, and of course the king, Elvis Presley, who brought such an exciting mixture of fashion and sexual energy to his songs and stage performances. This instantly infectious music had all the young guys in America now wanting to be rock n’ roll stars themselves, all copying the fashion and of course definitely the hair styles. Yes fifties America was now the most exciting place for young kids to be growing up in. The hard times were over, and suddenly there was money and affluence, and teenagers were now revelling in a freedom their parents had never known. In the blink of an eye the music world had been taken over by such an energetic force. Youngsters now had their own dances, their own style of dress, even their own language. Coffee bars or beach parties were now the in meeting places, fuelled with the potent mixture of rebellious fun, and sexual freedom. The fifties teenager had arrived, and life would never be the same again.

In the county of Jacksonville, in the suburbs of New York, stood Jackson High School, a large modern and spacious building. Inside it was like all other high schools at that time, crammed full of fashion conscious students, and would-be teen idols. At Jackson High there were many wannabe rock stars, all fronting would-be rock groups, but there were two guys who really did have star quality, Chad Dablusie and Joe Randall. To start with, not only were these two young teenagers the very best of friends, they were also the two coolest guys on the campus, great looking, and with enormous Elvis style quiffs. Yup, Chad and Joe were easily the stars of their high school, and being the two most popular rock n’ roll singers in the college, you would always find them singing at the local dance halls, or weekend beach parties, Chad with his unique gift for reaching glass-shattering high notes.

But Joe and Chad were not only just big rock n’ roll stars of their college, their athletic prowess made them stars of all college track and field events, as well as baseball and basketball main team players. Making them not just popular with all the girls, but popular with all the guys as well. So everyday for Joe and Chad was lived, laughed and loved to the full, in the fast lane of life. Coupled with always gaining straight ‘A’s, in exams, tutors, teachers, and even the college Dean would always look the other way rather than upset their two star pupils. Yes this was the life. Ah yes, this was their life.

But now more than thirty years later, both aged fifty two, those early years had long gone. Memories that had crystallised over the years are all that remained for these two middle-aged family men. But yes, as teenagers if anyone ever had the world at their feet it was Chad and Joe. But what life giveth, life will eventually taketh away. Never again would they experience the adulation they enjoyed from their college fan club. Gone forever being the local Romeos of their college and never again would they experience singing to a crowd of scantily clad beauties at the summer beach parties.

Also gone, their athletic prowess, and gone forever their incredible youthful good looks. Handsome was now definitely not a word you would use to describe these two middle-aged men.

Chad was now pot-bellied and completely bald, while Joe, also overweight had totally grey receding hair with matching grey moustache, and both of them now so completely out of condition. However, they were now both happily married men, both enjoying idyllic family lives.

Joe, now living in Ontario Canada with his wife Stacey and his children ten-year-old Ben, eleven-year-old Samantha, and seven-year-old Lucy. Chad, still living in New York with his wife June and his two daughters, Stella sixteen and fifteen-year-old Katie, and although Joe and Chad had lost contact with each other over the years, they had new friends now, and life was good.

But life can play strange tricks on you. Call it fate, or coincidence, who can say. Call it what you like, but when a million to one chance reunion happens, it does make you wonder if it was written in the stars, that it was meant to be, that Joe and Chad would meet up for one last final time in their lives. This chance reunion happened at the very plush, and very expensive Cabana Hotel in Florida, the holiday paradise where holidaymakers young and old have their dreams come true, enjoying sun, sea and of course, Disney World.

Joe, Stacey, and their children, Ben, Samantha and Lucy, were sitting in the foyer enjoying a well-earned drink after their long journey having just flown in from Ontario for what was to be their holiday of a lifetime. The children had talked about nothing else for the last six months and suddenly they were here, Disney World, home to Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Snow White… the list was endless and the more names they mentioned the more excited they became.

As the Randle family sat in the reception area enjoying their drinks, unbeknown to Joe, his best friend from high school was arriving outside with his wife June and their two children. Actually young ladies more than children, which was exactly why they had wanted to come to Florida. Sea, sun and surfing, which meant, boys, boys, boys.

However, to get their dad and mom to come to Florida they said they would love to see Disney World which was a complete lie, but a lie that had worked, and as they all pulled up in their big yellow taxi, Katie and Stella jumped out, so excited, and just stood there in the hot sun looking up at the huge lettering above the giant swing doors. CABANA HOTEL Wow, said Katie, I can’t believe we’re here.

I think it’s even better than that.

Stella’s eyes now transfixed on two tanned and very good looking young men leaning up against the cream colored hotel wall, making their tanned and smooth skin look even better. Katie looked quickly in the direction of Stella’s stare, then on seeing them, shyly looked away with a mischievous smile, growing quickly into a giggle.

Looking back at Stella she said to her older sister out of the corner of her mouth, Don’t keep looking at them, they’ll think we’re over-keen.

But we are over-keen, Stella replied with eyes lighting up.

Come on Juney, out we get, we’re here at last. Chad bursting with excitement eased his plump, overweight body off the back seat and out of the cab, the sun instantly bouncing off Chad’s bald head and his specially chosen, outrageously coloured shirt. June, having no such problem alighting from the cab, having managed over the years to keep her slim figure, was still a very attractive lady even at fifty years of age, and with her stylish black hair, looked years younger than Chad who was now graciously accepting their suitcases from the boot of the cab, via the cab driver, in return pushing a more than generous tip into the cabby’s hand.

Thank you sir, and have a nice day, said the cabby, having gleefully accepted his tip, now turning on his heels.

Correcting the cab driver Chad shouted to him, I’m gonna have a nice week actually.

Then have a nice week sir, the cabby shouted back as he quickly got back in and drove off, filtering back into the busy holiday traffic in pursuit of more fares.

Right kids, Chad pausing for a second himself to look up at the impressive gold lettering that spelt out CABANA HOTEL, in we go, and don’t keep giggling at all the boys, said Chad now using his suitcases like a pair of giant hands to move his girls along.

Alright, alright, don’t push dad, we’re going in.

But once inside they all had to stop.

Wow! Katie’s exclamation totally summing up everyone’s feelings in an instant, as Chad put down his suitcases and joined the rest of the family as they all stood there gazing around at the sheer beauty, elegance, and size of a hotel which would be their holiday home for the next seven days.

It’s a palace, was Stella’s stunned observation.

Well I’ve got to hand it to you honey, June still craning her neck backwards as she gazed up at the ornate angel carvings on the ceiling, circling enormous gold chandeliers, when it comes to choosing a nice hotel honey, you can certainly pick ‘em. June stood gently shaking her head in disbelief. And I’ve never ever seen such a highly polished floor in all my life, or such enormous marble pillars, or such…

Hey Juney, Chad interrupted, nothing but the best for my family eh? That’s what I told the lady when I booked it, and that’s what we’ve got, he said, putting his arm around June’s shoulder. That is what I wanted for us to have Juney, the very best hotel, for the very best summer vacation we’ve all ever had as a family. So come on gang let’s go and get the key to our apartment, and let’s get started on enjoying our vacation right now, he said, picking up the suitcases again and marching on towards the reception desk, situated right in the middle of the large reception area.

This slightly overbearing nerve centre of the hotel was manned by three impeccably dressed men all in regulation black suits, crisp white shirts, and conservative blue and white ties. Each attire enhanced by gold cufflinks and tie pins, carrying the hotels colourful red and green-shielded crest.

As Chad and his family approached the large, half moon shaped desk to check in, Chad was in no mood after their long journey to stand about waiting in a queue for their key. So squeezing past other recently arrived families, all standing around chatting and enjoying the grandness of the hotel and obviously in no such rush, Chad manoeuvred himself gently up to the light wooden panelled desk with black marbled top, and dropped his cases loudly onto the floor with a resounding bang so as to attract maximum attention and swift service.

The nearest receptionist to Chad was the reception manager, a very slim, upright, middle forties gentleman who looked over his glasses in the direction of the loud thud, the lights high-lighting the grey flecks in his hair.

Now as we get older our appearance can change dramatically, but our personality will always stay the same. So Chad’s fun loving and excitable exterior positively exploded with happiness, as he and his beloved family at last reached the hotel’s reception desk. The euphoria following the realisation that they were now, at last, starting their vacation was almost too exciting to handle for Chad as he proceeded to get louder and louder.

Ah my good man, Chad instantly announcing to the manager’s glare. We are the Dablusie family, this is my lovely wife June and my two lovely daughters Stella .

Be quiet dad Stella whispered.

… and Katie.

Shhh, people are looking dad, said Katie, smiling apologetically, like her sister, to everyone.

Let them look, who cares, we are on vacation, and for the next seven days the Dablusie family are going to have fun, fun, fun.

He’s been a bit over-worked of late, you understand, explained June to the man behind the reception desk who had now walked over to them, but appeared to be so miserable you wondered how he got such a job at a reception desk in a holiday hotel.

Cheer up Mac, it might never happen, said Chad, still jesting.

Dad, just ask for the key, Katie, with her head bowed whispered quietly.

Okay, okay, agreed Chad.

Now fluttering his eyelids at the receptionist as he asked, can you pleeeease… and I want you to do this without smiling. said Chad to the now more miserable then ever desk clerk, do a little spin-turn and give us our holiday apartment key?, unable to resist adding a whoopee on receiving the key.

A small distance away, sitting quietly, waiting for a hotel porter to help carry their luggage to their room, Joe, having casually observed the scene at the reception desk, quipped to his wife, You know Stace, some people just get so easily excited. Now you take that fat guy over there at the reception desk. He’s been making more noise on his own than a coach-load of tourists.

What Joe didn’t know was that he was about to be stunned by fate’s ‘stun-gun’.

Porter, take Mr Dablusie’s luggage up to room 203 please.

Mr Dablusie, Joe thought quietly to himself. I know that name . nah . no way . nope, no way could that be Chad Dablusie, my best buddy from Jackson Junior High, but could it be? Joe had to find out.

What’s up dad? You look like you’ve seen a ghost!

Joe was startled back to reality by his son’s high-pitched inquisitive voice.

Yeah, joined in the girls eager to get moving and start having fun.

Nah, thought Joe yet again, it just couldn’t be.

Joe, what are you muttering about? asked Stacey, sitting up in her easy chair getting herself ready to make a move.

Well, you see that guy over there with the colorful shirt Stace, standing by the elevator with his family, well I think it just might be Chad! I mean, I know it’s been thirty-odd years, but … no, no, Joe began again mumbling to himself. Na, Chad was really slim, and he had a big mop of jet-black hair as well.

Well he wouldn’t have a big mop of jet-black wavy hair now, after all these years would he? explained Stacey.

Then in an unrehearsed chorus, Lucy, Samantha and Ben all shouted out, Who’s Chad?

Wait a minute, said Stacey, when we first met and started going steady you used to talk all the time about a Chad. You and Chad did this at High School and you and Chad did that. So are you saying you think this is the Chad of all those years ago?

I dunno Stace, no, no it can’t be.

Well there’s an easy way to find out honey, come on.

Stacey, instantly getting to her feet and picking up her handbag.

Hell Stace I only heard the clerk say Mr Dablusie. I mean, I don’t know if this guy’s name is even Chad!

So let’s go and ask the clerk at reception right now and sort this out once and for all. Come on kids.

Yeah, was the chorus back.

Stacey led the family military style straight up to the reception desk.

We’ll sort this out and then get on with our vacation.

Yes madam, can I help you? It was the miserable one again.

Yes, I think you can, replied Stacey. That gentleman you just gave the keys to, the slightly portly man with his family.

Oh yes, said the clerk with frown lines appearing on his brow as his head lowered. What about the gentleman?

Could you tell us his Christian name please?

His Christian name, madam? repeated the clerk suspiciously.

Yes, my husband thinks he might know him from his old high school days. Stacey added, as the clerk appeared to require more information before making a move to supply the name.

Let me see, he said, lazily dragging the signing-in book towards him. Ah yes, Mr Dablusie and family, and you wish to know his Christian name?

Yeah! joined in the children.

Joe was just beginning to feel a little anxious. Supposing it was Chad, and what if he didn’t want to see me, thought Joe. Or maybe he had changed and I wouldn’t want to see him. After the initial euphoria of thinking about the old times, reality had kicked in.

What was your High School friend’s name? asked the clerk.

Chad answered Joe, craning his neck trying to look at the book.

Chad, echoed the clerk. Yes you’re right, he answered dismissively."

Thank you, said a stunned Joe. Then in a knee-jerk reaction, he asked, Now can we have our key please? The name’s Randall.

Randall .ah yes. Randall, well I never. Well you won’t need to go very far to renew old acquaintances will you? He’s right next door to you, room 203. Here’s your key sir, 202.

Sensing Joe’s slight discomfort at the situation, a smile began to creep across the clerk’s face.

Do me a favour will you? asked Joe. Don’t mention any of this to Mr Dablusie, it was a long time ago.

As you wish sir, agreed the clerk, accepting the $10 bill from Joe’s hand, like a crook accepting silence money. I’ll have your luggage sent up straight away.

Thank you, replied Joe with a false smile. Right, the vacation’s started kids, so let’s go, to the elevator.

Hooray, they cheered, then the questions began.

Have we got a TV in our room dad? they asked, and a Play station? piped up Ben. I wanna be near the window with my bed, Lucy demanded.

No you must share Lucy, said Samantha correcting her younger sister.

Alright, alright let’s just wait and see what the rooms look like first shall we? said Joe, his mind now in turmoil as to what to do about Chad.

As they travelled up in the elevator Joe was beginning to brace himself for a chance encounter, but no one was there as the doors pinged open, and out of the lift like greyhounds at a race track, Lucy, Ben and Sam chased along the landing to see who could find 202 first.

Ben got there first shouting, Here it is dad! Come on mom, hurry up.

Yes, come on Stace, before anyone comes out of their room to complain about the noise, Joe added.

That someone couldn’t be from say, 203, could it Joe?

Of course not. Look Stace, I’m just a little undecided at the moment, Joe hurriedly opened the door, and the children charged in, laughing and shouting, as Joe pulled Stacey in and shut the door, letting out a sigh of relief.

Joe, we can’t go on like this for the next week, said Stacey placing her arms around Joe’s neck in a show of understanding at her husband’s predicament. I feel like a burglar instead of a holidaymaker. Just go next door and say hello.

Oh yeah, I’ll go next door and say, ‘Hi Chad’ and he’ll say, ‘excuse me, do I know you?’ Or there will be a big fat silence. No, just don’t rush me on this Stace; let me think this through for a little while.

Next-door Chad and his family were busy unpacking.

Would you listen to the noise of those kids next door? What kind of father lets his kids make that much noise? I ask yer. I feel like going next door right now and telling him to keep his noisy kids under control.

If you can’t take a little noise from excited kids on vacation, it’s a sign you’re getting old and grumpy dad, commented Stella nonchalantly, whilst carrying on making sure all her clothes were not creased up, as she meticulously placed each one carefully on top of the other on the shelves in her wardrobe.

For your information, I actually like the sound of happy kids, Stella’s comments provoking Chad into a swift defensive reply.

Reminds me of my first days at school as a youngster. It’s just that I was going to have a little sleep for a while.

A sleep? cried the girls in synchronisation.

Yeah, you know before we hit town tonight, right June?

You won’t get much sleep this week honey, not unless you let the girls go out on their own at night.

Yeah, go on dad, we are old enough to stay out late on our own, pleaded Katie, quickly putting down her hair brush at the sudden expectation that they might at last be treated like grown-ups.

Not a chance, Chad swiftly acting to put down any imminent uprising or rebellion from his daughters. We’re a family and we’re gonna have lots of fun together as a family. And besides, you’re only just fifteen Kate.

I was fifteen seven months ago dad, Katie replied in a patronising voice.

Alright you two, let’s call a truce, and tonight me and your dad are going to take both you girls to a real Florida night club and then we’ll show you young girls who can party, right honey?

Hey, you got it Juney. I shall put on my best John Travolta party suit.

Dad, John Travolta didn’t have a pot belly, Stella’s observation prompting a swift reply.

I have not got a pot belly. It’s just that my chest had got a little lower over the years. Now, you see, if I hold my stomach in… making a supreme effort to impress the girls.

You need to visit that shop I saw at the airport precinct today honey. Oh what was it called now, enthused June struggling to remember. Back in Life, no, Time to Turn, no, I know, Turn Back Time. Yes, that’s what it was called.

Yeah I saw that shop, said Stella joining in. It had a poster in the window saying that they guarantee to make you look ten years younger.

I think you need more than ten dad, quipped Katie, now nonchalantly flicking the pages of her magazine.

I wouldn’t mind your dad being ten years younger again, quipped June with a wicked smile at Chad.

Alright, alright, can we all stop talking about my size and age now please, thank you.

After a minute’s pause Chad cursedly remarked, I bet there was no one even in the shop.

Oh yes there was, argued Stella piping up again. There were lots of men.

Why don’t you go there dad? suggested Katie now pushing, and prompting her dad to look younger.

Excuse me. I think this has gone quite far enough. I am now going in the bathroom for a nice hot relaxing bath, and to get away from you lot, retorted Chad jokingly. Anyway. he paused, …you wouldn’t find real men going in to some stupid shop like that. Chad closed the bathroom door and then started to sing out loud, "So macho, I gotta be, so macho."

Meanwhile next door, Joe, Stacey, Ben, Lucy and Samantha were all writing down on a sheet of paper each, how they wanted to spend the week, doing what and when.

Okay, let’s have all your papers in, Stacey announced, gathering them in from everyone, and not before time in Ben’s case as he had been trying to make an aeroplane out of his paper for the last five minutes. His list just read Disney World for every day.

Right, having read them all, announced Stacey in a pretend schoolteacher type voice, I think all anyone wants to do is visit Disney World.

Hurray, shouted Ben, Lucy and Sam with Joe joining in.

Let’s go now, yelled Ben.

Whoe, hold on a minute. Joe holding out his hand to stop Ben running straight past him. I tell you what I think we should do, I know your mom wants to see all the shops while we’re here, so if mom does all her shopping tomorrow and also tomorrow gets the tickets for Disney World we can then spend every single day of the rest of our vacation in Disney World.

What, so every day after tomorrow we will spend in Disney World? Ben repeating every word his dad had just said, making sure there were lots of witnesses to what his dad had just promised.

That’s right kids I promise. We’ll let mom have her one day looking in all the new shops, then like I’ve promised, the rest of the week, Mickey and Goofy.

Hurray, that’s a deal, agreed Ben gleefully.

Yeah, joined in the girls, can’t wait.

So what are we going to do now? asked Sam.

Well, Joe thought for a second, what say we all get showered and changed and really let this town know we’ve arrived.

Yeah, shouted the kids, instantly turning and running off in the direction of the bathroom shouting, I’m first, No, I’m first, No, I am.

Looking back from watching the children run off together, Stacey turned lovingly to Joe. You get those kids of ours so excited.

And why not? I love our kids so much Stace, but no more than I love you honey. Joe surprisingly and impulsively leaning over and giving Stacey a long lingering and romantic kiss.

Slowly parting from Joe, Stacey whispered, You haven’t kissed me like that in years Joe.

Still with an air of romance Joe whispered back, I want this holiday to be the holiday I’d always dreamt about us having Stace. With lots of fun and laughter for the kids, and a chance for you and me to get back to how we used to be. A deep loving smile from Joe finished off his sentence.

How far back do you want to go? Stacey’s tantalising reply causing Joe to fleetingly remember when they first met, theirs, a love affair so full of romance and passion, sparks would fly when they made love back in those early heady days, Joe reminisced to himself as they sat facing each other holding hands.

You look as lovely now as you did the first day we met Stace, said Joe starting the week how he intended to continue, being what he hadn’t been of late, complimentary, attentive, and loving.

That’s sweet of you to say that honey. Maybe we should come on vacation more often if it makes you like this. When it came to seduction Stacey always knew she had enough sex appeal to bring Joe to the boil any time she wanted.

You look very hot, Stace, Joe whispered, why don’t you go in the bedroom and get undressed? Joe whispered seductively.

Joe Randall Stacey said pulling back from Joe as if shocked by such an improper suggestion.

Well you’ve got to have a shower haven’t you Stace?

Stacey, recognising where that cheeky grin and glint in Joe’s eye was leading to.

And we are on vacation after all, Joe continued playfully.

Stacey got up and walked around behind Joe, placing her arms around Joe’s neck as she leant over him giving him a big squeeze. I think it’s you who needs a shower darling, and a cold one at that, Stacey whispered in Joe’s ear, then kissing Joe suggestively on the back of his neck she breathed, wait till tonight, when the kids are all in bed. Stacey ending her sentence nibbling Joe’s ear, before dragging her arms back from around Joe’s shoulders as she walked across to the bedroom door, only to turn around before going in to say, I think this really is going to be the vacation we’ve both always dreamt about Joe, but have you decided what to do about your friend next door?

No, not yet Stace, Joe’s mood suddenly changing, I’m still working on it.

With the early evening sunshine still streaming in through the hotel windows and across the now, very much more, spacious lobby floor, the Randalls stepped out from the elevator all wearing their specially bought for the holiday casual wear, and walked towards the hotel’s main entrance doors.

Dad said Lucy, sounding as sweet as her seven years would allow, they sell Big Tiger ice creams over there dad, look there’s a picture of one.

Joe looked down at the cute little face looking back up at him. Alright, I suppose so, how could I say no to such a sweet voice?

Can I have a Big Tiger ice cream then dad? asked Ben; never slow off the blocks when treats are being handed out.

Ooh, and I’ll have a Big Tiger as well dad please, Sam quick to join in the sweet treat as her dad always called it.

Well, let’s all sit at the table over there while the children have their ice creams, and I’ll have a nice coffee please Joe, said Stacey. As they all sat around the table, with Joe looking like the cat that got the cream, with a full pint of cold lager on the table in front of him, who should step out of the elevator with a daughter on each arm, laughing and joking to his wife, who followed a little way behind, but Chad.

I must look like a perverted lottery winner, he bellowed to anyone who wanted to listen.

I think it’s quite obvious they are your daughters, June’s ‘put down’ from behind.

Hey, wow, wait a minute, look at that guy over there at the table with what just has to be an ice-cold pint of lager. Juney I must have one before I go out into that sunshine. Come on girls, the drinks are on me.

Oh no, gasped Joe, as he saw Chad and his family making straight for his table, oh no, he’s recognised me at last, now you’ll hear some stories.

He might not have recognised you Joe, implied Stacey sipping her coffee.

You’re joking, why wouldn’t he? I mean, I’ve hardly changed.

Howdy partner, we were just going out when I clocked your beer in my radar and I thought, that makes an awful lot of sense before I go out into that hot sun. By the way let me introduce my family, my two lovely daughters Stella and Katie and of course my lovely wife June, and I’m Chad, he announced, holding out his hand to Joe.

Oh pleased to meet you Chad, replied Joe shaking hands nervously. Em, these are my kids, erm, Lucy, Sam and Ben, and this is my wife Stacey.

Well, very pleased to meet you folks, and now I’m gonna get me one of those ice-cold beers. Hope to see you folks later.

You certainly will, smiled Joe as they walked off towards the bar.

Well, why didn’t you say something? asked Stacey, not believing what she had just witnessed.

I dunno Stace, I just didn’t.

A wave of depression then engulfed Joe as he was forced to ask himself, Have I really changed so much that my best friend from high school doesn’t even recognise me?

So are you going to go up to him and say who you are? Or are you just going to forget the whole thing? asked Stacey, slowly becoming rather irritated by the whole saga.

Hey, of course, it’s obvious, it’s my moustache, beamed Joe, that’s why he didn’t recognise me.

So are you going to shave it off then dad? Ben asking the obvious as he was finishing his Big Tiger, a lot still around his face.

No, was Joe’s snappy reply. Now listen, when they all sit down I’ll get his attention and as he looks at me again he’ll realise, and recognise his old side kick.

So how you gonna get his attention dad? another obvious question from a ten-year-old.

How? snapped Joe again. Well, I’ll stare at him like this, said Joe sticking his head forward slightly and widening his eyes.

Well, there they go dad, Sam pointed out in a low voice.

Right, now, when Chad sits down I’ll begin staring hard at him, and when he looks across at me he’ll remember. He must remember, Joe added desperately to himself.

You really sure this will work Joe?

It has to Stace, just trust me on this, pleaded Joe as he now began staring hard, straight across at Chad.

Say Juney, Chad beginning to feel a little uncomfy, you know that guy I just shook hands with over there?

Yeah, replied June uninterestedly.

Well he keeps staring straight over here at me.

Maybe you fascinate him honey like you fascinate me, said June, playfully pouting her lips at Chad seductively.

No, no, I mean it June, I just looked at him and he didn’t even look away. Oh no, say you don’t think he could be a faggot do you? Oh Jeez I hope not, I shook his hand, and where’s that been?

Oh stop it, demanded June. It’s probably not even you he’s looking at.

I’m telling you it is me June. But if he’s a faggot, what’s he doing with a family? Chad thinking out loud. Oh no, he could be one of those raving bisexual types. Oh those poor kids. Oh Jeez no, he’s smiling at me now June. That’s it, I’m going over there right now and telling him he’s wasting his time on that score, pal!

No, don’t make a scene Chad. pleaded June, but it was too late. Chad was out of his chair and walking across to Joe before she had finished her sentence. Told you Stace, here comes Chad now. I guess he’s recognised me at last, remarked Joe smugly.

If he’s recognised you Joe, and remembers all the good times you both had, well, I don’t think they were as good for him as they were for you. Just look at his face. This is not a happy man Joe, said Stacey, casually putting her hand up to her forehead and looking downwards pretending to have a headache coming on, as Chad approached their table.

Excuse me pal, said Chad, now looking Joe right in the eye, let me lay this right on the line for you. I am a happy, full blooded, heterosexual male, so you are just wasting your time keep looking over at me and smiling. I mean Chad now trying to sound understanding and sympathetic, when I shook your hand, it was just in friendship.

Stacey had realised Chad thought Joe was gay, but didn’t like to tell him. She didn’t have to wait long before the penny dropped.

Hold on a minute, said Joe, the penny now having well and truly dropped, are you saying what I think you’re saying? Because let me tell you something pal. To question a man’s sexuality was to Joe the biggest insult a man could receive. Inside he was erupting and about to blow on a volcanic scale.

Unable to control herself any longer, Stacey jumped up spitting out a certain amount of larva and ash herself as she exploded. Stop, stop, stop. For goodness sake. You men. If you could only hear yourselves. Stacey now looking at Joe, then at Chad, then back to Joe. Just tell him who you are. Go on Joe, tell him, pleaded Stacey.

Tell me who you are? repeated Chad enquiringly. Well go on then, demanded Chad tell me, who are you?

I’m Joe Randall, Joe announced sternly.

Joe Randall.Joe Randall. Chad’s brain and memory raced around in different directions, until his personal head computer popped up with the only answer it could come up with. Possibly Joe Randall from Jackson High School, but no, it couldn’t be. Joe was so, so, well, Joe was young. Are you telling me that you are my old best buddy Joe Randall from Jacksons Junior High?

That’s me Chad. Joe now suddenly beginning to feel just a little emotional.

Chad just stood there, looking deeply into Joe’s face. I don’t believe it, …., it can’t be, …. can it? was Chad’s stunned reply. But yeah, I can see it now. Well by golly, how are you doing, you old son of a gun? Chad now opening his arms and wrapping them around Joe, with Joe reciprocating and embracing Chad, but then the joking started.

Careful Chad, I never actually said I wasn’t gay, did I?

With that Chad roared with laughter, and looking at Stacey cracked, Hey, this guy’s got more red blood in him than a blood bank. Say when we were young Joe would have a different girl friend every night, remember Joe?

Is that a fact Joe? Stacey’s teasing comment.

Joe winced, Chad exaggerates Stace.

Then Chad spun around and started waving frantically at his wife and girls to come over. They had been sitting watching in amazement as Chad, who one minute goes over to confront a possible gay man’s advances, and the next minute ends up seeing him cuddling the guy.

Turning back to Joe again, Chad slapped his bald head and once again exclaimed, I still don’t believe it Joe, meeting up again after all these years.

Nor did I Chad when I first saw you checking in at the desk this afternoon.

So you saw me first this afternoon Joe, and you recognised me straight away after thirty-odd years?

Well Joe stuttered, not wanting to hurt Chad’s feelings.

I know Joe, it’s the hair isn’t it? Chad admitted looking upwards. It disappeared almost overnight, Chad shaking his head. One minute I’ve got a mop like Elvis, the next minute I’m waving goodbye to it down the plughole. Ah well, guess that’s life though eh Joe? But hey, look at your beautiful family Chad, first looking at Joe’s three children, then at Stacey to which he asked, Hey Joe can I kiss the wife, she’s a cracker?

Hello Chad Stacey blushing, while smiling politely. I’ve heard all the stories about you two.

And do you know what Stacey, they’re all true, right Joe? said Chad, affectionately giving out another hearty laugh while Joe just winced again. Ah here they are, announced Chad, as June, Katie and Stella approached. Hey Juney, blurted out an over-excited husband, you’ll never guess who this guy is, Chad putting his hand on Joe’s shoulder. This here is Joe Randall, my best pal from way back in high school.

Hello Joe, pleased to meet you. So this is the Joe Randall you’ve always talked about over the years is it Chad?

It sure is Juney, this is him, Chad enthused.

Joe held out his hand. I’m very, very pleased to meet you June, and of course your lovely girls, Stella and Katie. Hey Chad I’d demand a D’N’A’. test on your daughters if I were you, they’re too pretty to be yours, joked Joe.

After Stacey, June, Stella and Katie had all kissed and embraced, Joe suddenly announced, Thank you, thank you, and now I would like to properly introduce to you my three wonderful kiddies.

Alrightee agreed Chad, always ready to ham it up if and when called upon. And so then Joe, who is this young sidewinder? asked Chad holding out his rather large hand to Ben.

This young lad is my son and heir Ben, who, when grown up, is going to take over the Randall Empire.

Great stuff Ben, Chad still shaking Ben’s hand. You go get ‘em partner … and what are these two charming young ladies names I wonder? asked Chad now giving all his attention to Ben’s little sisters.

And these are my two little princesses.

I’m Sam and I’m eleven years old and this is..

I can say who I am, interrupted Lucy with a frown, but in the blink of an eye now smiling sweetly as she announced to Chad, I’m Lucy and I’m seven years old.

Well I reckon your mum and dad are the luckiest mum and dad in the world to have three children as lovely as you three, Chad stated to the three beaming, smiling faces.

Well what about your two lovely, and may I say, very pretty daughters? said Stacey and I love what you’re both wearing.

Oh thank you Mrs Randall, they replied in harmony.

Oh call me Stacey, please.

Yeah and you can call me anything you like, added Joe.

Except gay, eh Joe! quipped Chad as everyone laughed.

Look, say why don’t we all go out together tomorrow night? suggested Chad’s wife June, I’m sure our husbands will find something to talk about, eh Stacey?

We’d love to wouldn’t we Joe? replied Stacey.

Oh yeah, you bet, agreed Joe It’ll be a knock-out night.

But we don’t want you two talking about old times all night Joe Randall. It can be just a bit boring for everyone after a while, Stacey warned.

Well, I’ll tell you what, said Joe, his eyes suddenly lighting up like a jackpot machine. I’ve got the perfect solution Stace. Why don’t you and June take the kids and go shopping tomorrow, whilst not forgetting to get the Disney World tickets as well, right kids, said Joe giving his kids the thumbs up, and me and Chad will spend a quiet day having a drink and getting rid of all our ‘old time’ stories.

That certainly makes a lot of sense, Stacey instantly agreed. That’s if you don’t mind June?

Mind! I’d love to, June replied with dollar signs showing in each eye, and I know Stella and Katie want to look at all the shops around here as well.

Great, then it’s settled, said Joe, We’ll all meet up tomorrow morning about . well . what time’s good for you Chad?

I don’t mind Joe. Juney, what time tomorrow? asked Chad.

Oh say, 10:30 if that’s okay with everyone?

Fine, enthused Stacey. I’ll have all my credit cards nicely polished and ready to use.

So it was agreed.

CHAPTER 2

The next morning was, as expected in Florida, beautifully hot and sunny. At 10:30, as arranged, Joe’s family were sitting in the foyer all excited as to what they were all going to do that day.

We’re definitely getting the tickets for Disney World today mom-aren’t we? asked Ben for the umpteenth time.

Yes, yes a thousand times YES! Stacey replied with a smile. But if you ask me that one more time I’ll take you to the local zoo and leave you there in one of the cages.

Can we have some Tiger ice creams today mom? asked Sam.

I suppose so, if you’re good.

Ping! The elevator doors opened and out came Chad’s family with Chad and June appearing to be arguing over something.

After all the good mornings had been exchanged between everybody and warm hellos, Chad began, Hey Joe, Stacey, tell me honestly, does this shirt look too small for me?

Before they could speak, June answered, Of course it does, anybody can see that. Look how stretched those button holes are.

I wore this shirt last year and you didn’t say anything then. Chad now tried to sound hurt and tap into June’s love for him in order to get a victory.

That’s because it fitted you last year dad, quipped Stella. Since then you’ve put on more weight.

Stella’s right dad, joined in Katie.

Alright, alright, I agree, I might have chunked up a little, but I like this shirt.

So do I Chad! his old pal Joe coming in to support him just like the old days.

Well you’re not going to be with me today Chad, so you can wear a bikini if you want, smirked June.

If Chad wears a bikini, I’m coming shopping with you June, cracked