Page 133 of The Texas Sterling Collection
“You looked shocked to see Stewy standing before you at Glide last night.”
“Boy howdy!” Wyl shook his head. “Of all the people in the world, he’s the last person I expected to turn up in San Francisco, and with a partner no less.” Wyl snapped his fingers. “Wait a minute…Stewy is who I saw the other day at Ferry Plaza. Lime green shirt guy, remember?”
“I remember you saying something about a lime green shirt, but the guy disappeared before I saw him.”
“I’m positive that was Stewy. And I will chat with him tonight about his family and the importance of being honest with them. He thought his parents would reject him, so he walked away from them instead.”
Rod took another sip of coffee. “I don’t know Stewy’s dad, but from what you shared, it sounds like Lefty would prefer a gay Stewy to no Stewy.”
“I think you’re right, babe. When I struggled with my feelings for you, Walt forced me to face them and provided me with more support than I expected. I miss him and wish he could see us married and happy.”
“Maybe we can be an example for Stewy. I realize not every gay man or gay couple has that, but I’m sure lots do. I enjoyed a close relationship with Patrick’s parents before they passed. Despite how Patrick abandoned me and the mess he left me to clean up, I maintained contact with his brother and husband, but we drifted apart over the years. And my parents welcomed Patrick into their home and treated him as part of the family.”
“I wonder if Matthew is out to his family?” Wyl took a swallow of coffee. “I didn’t talk with him much, so I don’t know much about him.”
“When he and I talked while you and Stewy chatted, he didn’t say anything about his family,” Rod said.
“We need to talk to Stewy and Matthew about the importance of communication.”
“You mean like me getting all pouty when you abandoned me for two weeks, or you running from Dusty when he questioned your manhood?”
“Um…well…yes,” Wyl chuckled uneasily. “That’s part of it. But in the end, we talk to each other about everything. I’m beginning to see our bond as unusual, and I am so thankful for you in my life.”
“Our audience last night saw that,” Rod said. “We now serve as an example for many gay couples, not only in San Francisco but all over the country, thanks to the magazine. Maybe we can get Stewy and Matthew to open up tonight.”
* * *
They ventured out at noon and caught the trolley to Ferry Plaza, where they strolled through the booths at the Farmer’s Market.
Rod browsed the fresh vegetable vendors. “Aside from steaks, what would you like?”
“How about roasted new potatoes and grilled asparagus?” Wyl spied a vendor’s fresh asparagus selection.
“Sounds good. Traditional green salad or something more creative?”
“When I used to go to Rotary Club with Dad years ago, they served this delicious broccoli and cauliflower salad,” Wyl said. “I remember bits of bacon, too.”
“I like bacon…er…broccoli salad,” Rod laughed. “Let’s find what we need, and maybe a few fresh peaches and a shortcake for dessert.”
“You’re making me hungry talking about food, babe. Can we grab a late lunch before we head back?”
“Works for me.”
They bought what they needed, including fresh bacon and prime tenderloin steaks cut two inches thick. The butcher carefully wrapped and ice-packed the meats to keep them fresh. With their hands laden by the bags of food, they stopped for lunch at a cart vendor on the pier and ordered a couple of hot dogs and beer. They found a table and sat to enjoy lunch.
“It’s beautiful here.” Wyl unwrapped his dog. “I can see why people gravitate to this city.”
“There is a lot more to see in San Francisco. I’m glad you are enjoying yourself.”
“Being here with you is the best part.” Wyl winked.
“Showing you one of my favorite cities is a treat for me, too.” Rod took a bite.
They people watched as they ate.
Unlike the Castro, they had shopped and eaten undisturbed this morning. Although several couples did seem to be watching them, they didn’t have the gawkers and autograph seekers that they had yesterday. Then a woman wearing sunglasses plopped down on a chair at their table. A scarf covered her head, cloaking her appearance in mystery.
“Buy me a hot dog, boys?” She asked.
