Friday Morning: Part 1

Friday Morning: Part 1

Emanuel looked around the empty, all white room. Someone went through a lot of trouble to keep this space as clean as possible. But what use is an all white room with nothing but a window you can’t see out of, and a door that doesn’t open?

Suddenly, a deep, male voice echoed in his head. Look out the window. Once you have your answer, the way forward will open.

Emanuel walked to the window, the sky now visible. In the distance was a bright and shining city filled with trees of every size and color. From the center of the city came music like he’d never heard before. It sounds like ten-thousand full-sized professional orchestras and choirs all performing in one space. Yet it feels like the music a person serenading his lover might play in private. How can anything be so grand and majestic, and so heart-felt and intimate at the same time?

He paused for a moment. Wait, that’s how mom used to describe praise. If that’s the case, then this can only be one place. And the function of this room is to prepare one’s self for what comes next.

The door swing open. Precisely. Go forward ... someone waits for you with a message.

He walked back to the door and looked in. He saw a comfortably decorated room with several couches. Sitting at one of them, was a person with long, curly black hair. Just like mom’s hair was. He continued around the couch and felt his heart tense up as he came face to face with the person. It is mom!

Her smile was comforting. “It’s been far too long pequeno. I’d heard that you grew into a fine young man, and that’s certainly true.”

Emanuel sat down next to her. “I take it you don’t have a way of looking earth-ward then.”

She looked down. “No, we do have a way. I’ve just never felt right using it after abandoning you and your father.”

“Mama, why didn’t you tell us sooner about the cancer? Dad and I could have helped you through it.”

“I thought I could handle it on my own. I depended too much on my own strength. And I learned too late that I should have asked for help.” She paused. “I see that same thought in you. Please don’t make the same mistake I did.”

“What do you mean?”

“I know that your father’s gone crazy because of his grief, and I know that he plans to get rid of everything that reminds him of me...” she paused again, “including you.”

“So do I mama. I’ve saved enough money to get me through for at least a few months, and I can begin working part time to raise the rest.”

She sighed loudly. “That’s exactly what I mean. You don’t need to take that path yet. You have people who are willing to help you.”

“Do you mean...”

“Yes, your future wife and in-laws, as well as your other close friends.”

“So that desire isn’t crazy?”

“Not at all. From what I understand, you and her are meant for each other.” She looked down again, them back up. “So please, accept the help others are waiting to give you.”

“Can you help dad at all?”

“No. I’ve tried to, every chance I’ve gotten, but he refuses to even listen. I believe he needs to hit rock bottom before he will.”

“Will something like this happen again mama?”

“Only if the message is important. Visits like this are supposed to be rare. And I fear we don’t have much time left for this one.”

Emanuel’s peace was interrupted by a loud crash. Was that the sound of glass breaking?

“He’s awake I’m afraid. Can you forgive me for what I’ve done?”

“Of course mama...” he paused, “I hope someday dad can too.”

She stood up, and motioned for him to do the same. “Me too pequeno.” He stood up, and she pulled him into a calming hug. “I have always loved you, and I always will.”

A few tears escaped his eyes. “I love you too mama.”

The screaming began. “Wake up you little brat, and unlock this door right now! This is MY house, and you have no right to keep me out of any part of it!”

Great, he’s sober enough to speak clearly, but drunk enough to try something stupid.

Go, and do what must be done.

The room began to fade. Will I be able to return here again?

In time. For now, your place is in the world you know.

She began to fade too.

“I’ll miss you mama.”

As long as you want it, there will be a place for you here. Go, and keep living well.

I will.

The room finished fading, and his room came into view. He quietly climbed out of bed and walked to the interior door. I need something that can block it, in case he does anything ... but what?

He looked around, and spotted a nearby tall, heavy dresser. That should work. Summoning all his strength, he pushed the dresser in front of the door. That should hold him until I can figure out a more permanent solution.

What’s wrong Manny?

Dad’s drunk earlier than usual, and the only thing keeping him from breaking down my door is the dresser I just pushed in front of it. I don’t know how long that will keep him out though, so I need to come up with something better.

How strong is your exterior door?

Emanuel walked toward the bathroom and quietly stripped. Strong enough. It’s survived storms before, so I doubt he can get through it. I’m more concerned about him breaking through the connecting door... He paused and felt the water’s temperature warm up at least, until I can find somewhere else to live. Once I’m out of here, he’s free to do as much damage to the house as he wants to.

A surge of joy briefly flowed from Allison. What changed your mind?

I’ll tell you once we get to school ... I’m not certain this is something I can tell anyone from a distance. He reached for the soap, and quickly lathered up.

Okay. Do you mind if I masturbate a little before then? I woke up kind of horny.

He smiled and rinsed off the soap. Not at all. Have fun.

Would you like to join me?

Emanuel reached for the shampoo, poured some on his hand, and began to wash his hair. Not today. I’m not really in the mood right now, and I want to get away from here as quickly as I can.

Aww... he felt her disappointment. I understand.

He reached for conditioner. Actually, I think I could use a few minutes to myself. Do you mind if I go blank for a little bit?

I’d rather you do that and be emotionally present later than have your half attention now.

Thanks. I’ll see you later.

Emanuel breathed in, quietly pictured a wall in his mind, and breathed out as the wall formed. Silently, he massaged some conditioner into his hair. Why didn’t mom try speaking to me earlier? Was I not ready until now? Am I truly ready to leave this place... he rinsed off the conditioner or should I try to fight a little harder? He reached for the soap, and began to lather up.

Another crash... No, it’s definitely time. The sooner I can be out of here, the better. Thankfully, I don’t have much to pack ... a few boxes, and maybe a suitcase should be enough. He quickly rinsed off, then shut off the water. With help, that shouldn’t take long. He heard another crash as he stepped out of the shower and began to dry. Considering how violent he seems to be today, I might not have long. Maybe I should see if Tony can assist me with getting the important stuff out now.

Emanuel reached his bathrobe and slipped it on, only to hear the sound of splintering wood. I definitely need to call Tony. He scanned the room again. There ought to be something stronger I can use to block the door.

His eyes stopped on a pile of concrete blocks in the corner. Those will work much better. I’ll need to get them in front of the door for them to be truly effective though. Emanuel quietly closed his eyes and focused his attention. Okay, he’s walking away from the door, and it feels like he’ll be gone for a little while. That should be enough time to swap them out.

He quickly pushed the dresser aside, and began to stack the blocks. If I build this like I would a wall, then he should have a very difficult time getting through. And I can put the dresser in front of them too ... that should make them all but impossible to move.

Emanuel breathed a sigh of relief a few minutes later. There. That should do it. And he’s still not near the door, so I should have time to quickly pack a few things. He scanned the room again. Okay, I have four boxes, and a reasonably big suitcase. That should be enough. All I need to pack is my books, a few special items, my hard drive, and my clothing.

He started moving about the room, quickly loading up two boxes with books, and a third with other items. Wait ... I shouldn’t forget the video games.

A few minutes later, he stepped back to survey the room one last time. That should be everything. With a little bit of help, I think everything can make it out in one trip. And I should have just enough time to make it to school before the strip show starts. All I need is my duffel and backpack, and I’m set.

He’d just tied the duffel to his bike when he suddenly heard “Youch!!! I’ll get you for that you little shit!”

Guess he tried to break the door down again. Good thing I made it out as quickly as I did ... Time to ride. He began to pedal, and imagined the wall coming down. Ally?

Feeling better Manny?

A little. I was able to reinforce the barrier I set up earlier, and literally left just in time to hear Dad testing it.

So you’re on your way?

Emanuel glanced up at the street sign. Yeah. I should be on time for the show to start. How was your shower?

Good ... but not quite as good as if you were doing it for me.

Was it enough to satisfy your horniness?

Mostly... she responded with a sense of expectation.

I know what you want to hear, but...

Her disappointment hit him like a ton of bricks. Oh ... boo. And I was going to try to inspire you too.

You’re free to try, but I’m not sure how much that’ll help.

Is that a challenge? She replied playfully.

Only if you want it to be.

He felt her smile. Challenge accepted, she giggled.

Did you just giggle?

She paused. How did you know that?

It came through the telepathy. It’s growing faster than I expected it to.

Me too. What will we pick up on next?

Emanuel glanced up at the nearby street sign. I have no clue. He sighed, and stopped for the red light. Almost there.

He smiled and waved to her as he pulled up to the bike racks. Their energy is the lowest, and can easily be confused for walls. Mostly because most of their energy is being kept bottled inside or used up not caring about anything.

Emanuel chained the bike and started toward where Allison was standing. “Are you wearing that bathrobe properly, handsome?” she asked seductively.

He smiled and replied “Why don’t you find out for yourself?”

She walked sensually toward him. “Don’t mind if I do.” Emanuel felt his heart begin to beat faster as she closed the distance, lightly bit her lower lip, and gently pulled down the right shoulder of his robe. “Right so far ... do you know what the prize is for wearing a robe correctly?”

He felt a familiar twitch. “I’m afraid I don’t. Perhaps you’d consent to tell me?”

Her smile widened, and she pulled down the left shoulder. “As tempted as I am to tell you...” she paused and begin to loosen the belt “I think it’s better for you to find out for yourself...”

She continued to loosen the knot. But just as he felt it was about to come undone, she suddenly knelt down in front of him, grabbed one end of the belt in her teeth, and quickly tugged it.

The robe fell open and tumbled to the ground. He breathing deepened as she giggled sexily. “Just as I had hoped handsome.” She slowly stood. “Now it’s time for your...” she paused “reward.”

She silently but slowly undo the belt of her own robe, all the while keeping an arm tucked around it. “Are you ready handsome?” He nodded as the robe began to fall open, revealing mostly bare skin.

Is that?

“Why don’t you see for yourself?”

He stepped forward, reached out his arms and slowly pulled the robe off her shoulders, catching a glimpse of two black bands as he did. As he cleared the robe past them, Allison gently released his hands from the robe and pulled him in close for a kiss.

You tease...

A hand gently grasped his semi-hard penis. I don’t feel him complaining.

She suddenly pulled back, stroking his penis in the process. His eyes focused on the black lace that almost fully covered Allison’s breasts and mound. Just see-through enough to get a glimpse, but...

Enough coverage to leave them guessing. Unless, of course, you want to see more?

Emanuel gulped. I don’t know how you managed to make a thought sound seductive, but...

She giggled again, and slowly danced toward him, shedding her panties as she did. I’ll take that as a yes. She continued toward him, letting one breast spill out of the bra. So, do I win?

Emanuel nodded his head. Please, let me finish taking that off.

An evil smile temporarily crossed her face. Since you asked so nicely. But there’s a price to pay for that privilege.

Emanuel smiled and slipped the bra off the rest of the way. Would the price be... he paused, reaching for her breasts, this?

A soft moan escaped her lips. Yes! Please, squeeze, caress, lick ... whatever you do, just do something!

He laughed lightly and began to run figure eights around both breasts for a few moments, before lowering his mouth to the left breast. You mean, like this? he asked, as his tongue began to trace around her areola.

“Yes! Just like that!” Her moans became louder as she again reached for his penis and began to play with it. He felt it harden more as she slowly pumped her hand up and down it.

Then perhaps you’ll like this.

He let his free hand drop and begin to caress its way down to her pubic mound. “Yes, pl ... please ... finger me...”

“As you wish.” He let his hand brush her mound and clit before moving down to her waiting slit. Nice and wet already. He dipped a finger in, then brought it back up to his mouth. Yummy.

Don’t you dare tease me.

I wouldn’t dream of it. He returned the free hand and began to slowly finger her.

“YES!!!” Her moans became screams, and Emanuel smiled as she began to buck her hips against his hand. At the same time, he felt a familiar sensation begin to build.

Cum for me Allison.

You too ... Manny ... almost there!

With a sudden, high-pitched scream, Allison’s body shook. Me too!

I can feel it landing on my stomach. It feels so ... warm.

As does yours my precious.

“Do you two need any help?”

“Thanks Kara. I’m a little dizzy, and I’m sure Allison is too.”

She smiled. “Not a problem. We’ll help you to your boxes so you can get your clothing locked up. Then we should get going...” she paused “your little show took most of the waiting time.”

Emanuel lightly giggled, and grabbed his robe from the floor. Are you okay Ally?

Yeah. Tony and Cosette are keeping me up, but wow was that satisfying.

He smiled. Good. I’ll fill you in more about this morning when we have a little bit of privacy.

Okay.

By the time he’d reached the lock boxes, Emanuel’s balance was starting to get back to normal.

“Mr. Lopez, would I be correct in guessing that show was all Ms. Kirse’s idea?”

He nodded and gently put the bathrobe in an open locker. “Certainly Ms. Frauhold. Actually, I suspect my Ally is rapidly becoming more comfortable with nudity.”

She turned toward Allison and asked, “Is this true Ms. Kirse?”

“One-hundred percent. The robe and lingerie were the first articles of clothing I’ve had on since yesterday.” She paused. “And I only put these on this morning.”

A smile began to cross her face. “And the show?”

A devious grin flashed on Allison’s face. “He challenged me.” She paused for dramatic effect. “I won.”

“Have you two thought anymore about what we talked about yesterday?”

The release forms ... right.

Allison opened her backpack, and glanced at his. “Yes Ms. Frauhold. I have the signed form right here.” She pulled hers out, and handed it over.

“And you Mr. Lopez?”

He pulled out the form and held it out. “Right here Ms. Frauhold.”

“Fantastic. Let me just look these over real quick.” She scanned the forms. “May I ask why you both opted out of the editing clause?”

“We don’t mind our actual deeds and pictures being used to accurately portray us and the Program. But we don’t want to be turned into some piece of false propaganda.”

“I can see how some people in the office might abuse such power. Hopefully this won’t affect your odds of winning too much.”

“If that’s the only reason we lose, then the awards are not worth it.”

Hey Ally, do you notice someone who is surprisingly absent?

She looked around, then deposited her clothing. Benerdon. Do you sense her hiding anywhere?

No. Either she’s really apathetic, in which case I couldn’t pick up on her energy anyway, or she’s not here at all. And I don’t know whether that should worry me or not.

I’d be more worried if she was here. I can only hope that we scared her out of anymore funny business. But I doubt her cronies have any qualms about acting without orders.

Emanuel pointed towards the main doors, and started to walk. Cronies we can avoid, or report to Mr. Litski. And since you and I are... he paused old hat to many of the students, the threat of getting drafted into the Program...

And becoming fresh meat, right?

Right. That threat should be enough to keep them at bay. He paused again. I wonder if our homeroom teacher is feeling better today.

Allison suddenly stopped him, and tapped him on the shoulder. “Doesn’t look like it.”

Emanuel looked where she was pointing. “Dark room, closed door, and an official sign? Seems like you’re right. Straight to Psych then?”

She nodded as the halls continued to empty. “Is this private enough?”

“For that talk? I suppose so. Anyway, I’m still not sure what to make of it, but...” he paused “I think I had a conversation with my mom this morning.”

A puzzled look appeared on her face. “Wait ... isn’t she...”

“Yes. That’s part of why I’m not sure it really happened. I’m sure Ms. Jenkins could suggest an alternative explanation to a temporary visit to heaven.”

Allison grabbed his hand. “And did this conversation have anything to do with your change of heart?”

Emanuel nodded. “Yeah. Whether I came to the realization on my own, subconsciously, or my mom was looking out for me, I know I can’t make the same mistake she did. I need to accept help when it’s offered, and I can’t keep going around thinking I’m all I have.”

“That’s a hard lesson to learn, true.” She smiled and squeezed her hand. “You’ve said you’ll be here for me; well, as long as you’ll have me, I’ll be here for you too.”

Emanuel smiled, pulled Allison close, and kissed her tenderly. “Thanks.”

“Are you sure there’s nothing else?”

“Is it that obvious?”

She nodded. “Yeah. Something else from the conversation? Or from afterward?”

Emanuel chuckled. “Both. Real or dream, mom said that we’re meant for each other. This just helps prove that.”

She nodded her head in understanding. “You mean, kind of like soul mates?”

“Yeah.”

“And the other thing?”

“I’m not sure where I found the strength, but I packed everything of value. So if and when the time to move comes, I’m prepared to do so.”

Even though you wish you didn’t have to, right?

Right. But Dad’s grief has poisoned him, and nothing short of losing everything will make him realize that. And if I’m leaving, I want it to be on my terms as much as is possible.

“Is that why you packed earlier?”

He nodded. “Yeah. At the very least, I can guarantee getting out everything that’s irreplaceable or really important.”

“Good. Do you suppose we missed any important announcements?”

Emanuel shook his head, then pointed to a nearby door. “Probably not. Anyway, we’re here a bit early it seems.”

“Does Ms. Jenkins even have a homeroom class?”

“No, I don’t, so please come in now if you’d like to. I have a piece of news to tell the two of you.”

News? I really hope it’s nothing to do with Benerdon.

Emanuel nodded his head. Me too precious. He gently squeezed her hand and resumed walking toward the door.

“Once you’re in, please close the door.” Emanuel nodded, stepped through, and closed the door behind him. “Most of the staff is unaware of this, but rumors of it will eventually start making their way around. And once that happens...” he heard her pause “you two might start getting some trouble.”

“Trouble Ms. Jenkins? Over what?”

“Over being the reason that Mrs. Smith quit, Emanuel.”

“Who’s Mrs. Smith?” Allison asked.

Emanuel watched her shake her head. “Your homeroom teacher. Also, she’s the reason why our AP Chemistry class passes so many students...” she paused again “despite so many students failing the AP exam.”

Ms. Jenkins stared in disbelief.

Why is she staring at us Manny?

Probably because we’re clearly having a full conversation, and she can sense it.

“Did you forget about our gift again Ms. Jenkins?”

She shook her head and breathed in slowly for a few seconds. “No. I’m just having a hard time believing that you two can actually hold full conversations without having to ever say a word.”

Should we tell her Manny?

Why not?

“It’s progressed beyond even that actually. Now, we can sometimes transmit emotion and some muscle movements as well.”

Her jaw dropped for a split second. “But, that should be impossible ... especially in such a short period of time.”

“Ms. Jenkins, I’m not sure why it’s developing this quickly either. But honestly, I’m not about to question something that helps me get communicate more clearly with Allison.”

Or as covertly when the secrecy is valuable.

He felt her giggle. Agreed.

“Will you two be able to control it for the sake of today’s experiment?”

“Yes. I’m sure I mentioned a technique yesterday that effectively does just that, and I should have no problem guiding Allison through it.”

Even in the small amount of time we have before class starts?

Even in that time. Want to try it now for a little practice?

Sure.

“Okay. Start by closing your eyes, and quieting your mind for a few seconds. Once you’ve done that, picture yourself sitting in a blank, white space.” She nodded a few seconds later. “Good. Now, picture a wall appearing in front of you, brick by brick. As each brick falls into place, repeat a simple mantra.”

“Do the specifics of the mantra matter?”

“Only in that its focus should be on the aloneness of your mind and self. The wording should be your own though.”

He watched her sit in silence for another few moments, then nod again. “Good. Keep letting the wall build until you can’t see past it. You’ll know the right moment to stop it instinctively.” He waited another few moments, as Allison’s facial expressions became more and more focused.

Finally, she seemed to relax. “Good. I’m going to try to send you a word. If you hear it, respond to it.” What should I use... he paused. Ahh, that’ll work. He focused intently for a few seconds and thought loudly Bacon!

Emanuel waited for a few moments, smiling when a full thirty seconds of silence passed. “Good. Now, dismiss the wall.”

Emanuel smiled. Not at all. Your wall might have had a few minor holes in it, but considering the fact that I mentally shouted bacon means it should be strong enough to deal with thoughts at normal volume.

She smiled, and then looked toward the door. The rest of the class is starting to enter.

Now would be a good time to sit down, and re-establish the wall. It should be a little easier this time.

Okay.

Emanuel smiled and turned back to Ms. Jenkins. “Should I sit down for now?”

She quietly attached the electrodes. “You can put your bags down at the side and stand there for now. Or, if you want relief, then take one of the front seats.”

Emanuel quietly nodded and headed for the side of the classroom. “Allison did a fantastic job earlier, so I think I’m good for now.” The last few students shuffled in, just as the bell rang.

“Okay, take your seats everyone. Today we’ll be repeating yesterday’s experiment, but with Allison as the subject. Emanuel, you know what to do.”

He nodded, grabbed the blindfold, and quickly tied it around Allison’s eyes. Flex your fingers twice if you can hear me. He quietly waited for a response.

A few moments later, one still hadn’t come. Emanuel watched as Ms. Jenkins glanced at him for a second. He nodded his head and stood in front of Allison.

“Good. Now, I need two volunteers.”

Hands shot up. Every guy except for Tad ... that’s not surprising. But that many girls too? Ms. Jenkins scanned the class. She’s probably going to pick only one of the guys, and make her other selection from amongst the girls.

Her eyes continued to scan the room. “Lets see ... you” she said, pointing at a slender guy; “and you.” pointing at a short, but curvy brunette.

“Okay, the rules for round one are similar to yesterday. Non-genital and breast touch only. We’ll start with...” she pointed to the other guy “you, number 1.”

Allison

“Begin.”

A pair of hands touched her shoulders. The shoulders first? Really? She tightened her focus on the sensation as the hands began to slowly travel down her arms. Whoever this is has very rough hands, and clearly has never done this to a girl before. He’s barely touching me at all. The hands briefly touch her stomach before beginning to travel back up.