COPYRIGHT October 2000, BY: K-rock THIS STORY IS WRITTEN FOR PLEASURE AND IS NOT INTENDED TO INFRINGE ON ANY PREEXISTING COPYRIGHTS THAT MAY BE VIOLATED. FEEL FREE TO SHARE WITH FRIENDS, BUT NOT FOR PROFIT.

THIS STORY IS FICTIONAL, A WORK OF THE WRITER'S IMAGINATION. THE CHARACTERS AND INCIDENTS USED IN THIS STORY ARE PURELY FICTIONAL AND ARE NOT BASED ON ANY PERSON AND/OR PERSON'S ACTUAL EXPERIENCES.

Title: Rich In Love and Happiness

Author: K-rock

Rated: SLASH

Pairing: Roy/Johnny

Archive: Yes

Content Warning: This story will stretch the limits of your imagination, taking you where no other story has taken you before. This involves a loving, sexual relationship between two men. If this doesn't appeal to you, please don't read any further. It only gets stranger!

Author's Notes, Reserve and Restriction: This story is very AU. I wanted to write one where one of the guys became pregnant, but maybe not only once, and maybe not just one of them. Just open your mind, and go with me as we explore possibilities that may be only in the near future. However, this story will take place in the early 80's. We wouldn't want Johnny to be too old to have a baby!

Additional notes: Some of this information will be obtained from internet research, as well as movies that have covered this topic.

Summary: It's 1980. Roy and Johnny have been partners and lovers for seven years. For this story, Roy had just divorced when he met Johnny, and it was love at first sight. Roy has a 11 year old son, Chris, and an 9 year old daughter, Jennifer, but Joanne rarely lets him see them. The guys are approached about an unusual procedure, and they have to look into their hearts, and search their souls about this event that would change their lives.

By K-Rock

(Oct. 12, 1987)

"IT'S A GIRL!"

Cheers break out in the delivery room among the two doctors and two nurses who are present, along with the happy fathers. Roy leans over and gives his lover of 14 years a kiss. Johnny can only give him a faint, tired smile, totally exhausted by the whole process, and whispers, "I love you, Roy."

With tears in her eyes, Dixie takes the baby over so Johnny can see her. He gives her a quick kiss, and then the doctor knocks him out so he can finish the surgery.

Dixie holds her out to Roy, who just smiles proudly, and gives the tiny angel a kiss. He follows Dix over to the table and watches while she cleans up the squalling newborn.

"Well, this makes number seven, Roy! She certainly has great lungs like her brothers! Does it get any easier?"

Roy shakes his head, wiping away a tear, "No, just makes us richer in love, and a happier family. And all our kids have loud mouths!"

Dixie pats his obviously pregnant stomach, "Roy DeSoto! He just gave you your fourth daughter and you are carrying another son. Are you saying it still hasn't gotten easier?"

Roy laughs, and sits down on the stool as he watches Dixie with his newborn daughter, "Dix, it's a lot harder than we thought it would be. Johnny isn't gonna have anymore, and this will probably be my last one. I think seven children are plenty! When we started this, if you will remember, we were only gonna try it once." He pats his stomach, "Meanwhile, six pregnancies later......"

Dixie rolls her eyes and laughs as she works on the baby, "I know, but you two have been blessed with seven blessings you may have never known if you hadn't tried this. Are you happy you did? Hold her down gently with your hand so I can draw some blood."

Roy nods, smiling as he feels the baby grip his finger, and then scream her head off when Dixie pokes her foot. "Shhh, Darlin'. It's OK." He nods to Dix, "Yeah we are happy we did, but for some reason, I have an easier time than Johnny does, but he loves being pregnant. And, of course, Hank and Mike love being uncles. You know that Mike tried to get pregnant, but it just didn't work out. Dix, watch out. She's pooping."

Dixie nods as she continues cleaning up and doing the tests on the baby, "I know. I've got a diaper right here. I know that Mike and Hank were very disappointed, but they have their hands full watching your kids."

Roy laughs when the baby starts kicking her legs, and fussing at Dixie for bothering her. Roy holds her legs so Dix can finish cleaning her, "I know it but the kids love them. J.R. and Lindsay love staying with them." Roy shifts on the stool, very uncomfortable at this mid-stage in his pregnancy.

Dixie smiles as she notices his discomfort, "How much longer, Roy?" She puts a warming cap on the baby, and wraps her in a blanket.

Roy sighs, "12 weeks. We planned it that way so by the time I had Kyle, Johnny would be back on his feet."

"And what is the name of this little angel?" Dixie asks as she holds the baby close to her, and kisses her gently on the head.

The smile on Roy's face brightens up the room, "Her name is Kaitlyn Michelle Gage-DeSoto. And her brother will be Kyle Michael Gage-DeSoto."

Dixie finishes with the baby, and takes her to the nursey. Roy goes over by the operating table to talk to Dr. Brackett and Dr. Shifter. They look up as he approaches, and Dr. Brackett speaks to him.

"We are nearly done here, Roy. Johnny is doing fine. How is that little angel doing?"

Roy smiles, "She's fine, Doc." He looks at Dr. Shifter, "Dr. Shifter, thank you for bringing us so much joy!"

Dr. Shifter shakes his head, "You brought the joy, Roy. All I did was create the process. When is your baby due?"

Roy smiles, "12 weeks. This is a boy, and his name is Kyle Michael."

Dr. Brackett laughs, "Any particular reason why Michael is the middle name?"

Roy just smiles, "Maybe. We won't know till he is born."

Dr. Shifter looks between the two men, a confused look on his face, "Uh, can you enlighten me here. I am sort of out of the loop these days, as far as the conception part."

Roy laughs, "It's not that big of a deal. Hank and Mike wanted to have a baby, and couldn't. So, we had three eggs harvested, and sperm from each of us were mixed. We won't know who the father is until the baby is born, and we'll see who he looks like, or do blood tests if we can't tell. It will still be our child, unless this kid looks so much like them, they decide they will adopt the baby. More than likely, Johnny and I will raise it, and they will be 'close uncles'." He looks at Kel, "You know, don't you, Doc, that if I had been carrying twins, there was the possiblity that the fathers could be different."

Dr. Brackett nods, "I thought about that. These guys have done great, Dr. Shifter."

The doctor nods as he finishes the surgery, "I know they have! How many children do you and Johnny have now, Roy?"

"Well, including the one I am carrying, we have seven children. He has had four girls, and I have had three boys. He is not gonna have any more, and I probably won't have any more. If I had pictures on me, I would show them to you. But, our children are Rachel Dawn, and Rebecca Marie, and they are our 5 year old twins, then J.R. for John-Roy, is 4, Lindsay Victoria is 2, and Jacob Ryan is 2. They are only four months apart. We thought we were through, but decided we wanted to do this one more time each, so we waited till Jacob turned a year old and then went for it again."

Dr. Brackett speaks up, "OK, let's close and get him in recovery. See ya later, Roy."

Roy looks at Johnny, who is still out, and gives him a quick kiss. Then he hurries through the halls of the small clinic, down to the nursery, checks on Kaitlyn, goes to the bathroom, and then calls Hank and Mike to let them know the good news.

When Roy has time to catch his breath, and relax in Johnny's room, he puts his feet up, leans back, and thinks back to when this whole thing started. It was seven years ago, and who would have thought seven years ago how much their lives would change in just seven short years............

(Seven Years Earlier, (March 1980)

Roy and Johnny are enjoying a late breakfast on their day off. Roy is reading a magazine they get about the Gay Community in California, and Johnny is reading the paper. Roy nearly chokes on his coffee when he comes across an article in the back of the magazine.

"Oh my gosh! This can't be right!"

Johnny looks up from the paper, "What is it Babe?"

Roy laughs, shaking his head in disbelief, "There is a short story under the interesting facts and stories part of the magazine about a gay couple who just had a baby with a successful male pregnancy."

Johnny's eyebrows shoot up into his hair, "Say what? A MAN had a baby?"

Roy nods, and hands Johnny the magazine, "That's what it says right here. Jack and John, which of course are not their real names, from Northern California, successfully completed a nine-month pregnancy and have a beautiful baby girl. I find that real hard to believe, but nowadays anything is possible!"

Johnny hands Roy back the magazine, then quietly reads the newspaper for awhile, neither one of them saying much. After several minutes, Johnny folds the paper, and gets up to get some more coffee. After he fills his cup, he leans back against the counter, with one ankle crossed over the other as he drinks his coffee, deep in thought.

Roy looks up when Johnny doesn't sit back down, "Johnny? What's wrong? You look like you are a million miles away."

Johnny smiles, "I don't know. That article got me thinking, I guess."

Roy looks at Johnny like he just grew a horn, "WHAT? Come on Babe! You can't really believe that happened!"

Johnny comes over and sits back down at the table, "Why not, Babe? You just said yourself that anything is possible!"

Roy laughs, "Johnny! That is more science fiction than anything." He gets up and starts clearing the table. "Come on and help me get the dishes done. We've got to get the washing done and all that good stuff."

Reluctantly Johnny gets up and helps Roy, but he quietly puts the magazine on top of the fridge.

**********************

Several days later, Roy and Johnny are at Rampart picking up supplies when Dr. Brackett stops by the nurses station where they are.

"Hey, Guys! Can you spare a couple of minutes?"

They both nod, and Dr. Brackett takes them to his office.

"Have a seat Guys."

They sit down but Roy wonders what they did, "What's going on Doc? Did we do something wrong?"

Dr. Brackett sits down in his chair, and waves his hands, "No, no. This really isn't a professional meeting. It's more of a information meeting, I guess. First of all, I don't want you guys to think I am totally off my rocker."

Roy and Johnny both start laughing, and he rolls his eyes, "OK, OK. Maybe I am a little bit. Anyway, let me tell you about a doctor friend of mine who I have known for over 20 years. He has developed a process where it has been possible for a man to successfully conceive, carry, and deliver a healthy baby."

Roy starts laughing, but Johnny just sits there, showing no expression or emotion as Roy talks, "Oh Doc! We saw an article about a guy in Northern California who had a baby. Are you telling me it's true?"

Dr. Brackett nods, noticing that Johnny is quiet, "Yes, it is true. Roy, I know this doctor and he has been able to keep it quiet. The reason I am telling you guys is because he is always looking for gay men who have a strong, loving relationship, and who have been together for at least five years. This may seem hard to believe, Roy, but there have actually been three men that have had a baby. One here in Californina, one in England, and one in Germany. All the children are doing great. Would you guys at least give this guy a call so he can tell you all about it?"

Roy shakes his head, "I don't know, Doc. That is pretty farfetched. Don't you think so Johnny?"

Roy looks at Johnny and is shocked to see tears in his eyes. He takes his hand in his, "What's wrong Babe? Why does this have you so choked up?"

Johnny just shakes his head, not able to speak at the moment. Dr. Brackett gets up and pours them some coffee, handing one to both of them as he sits on the front of his desk. "Johnny? Is this something you would consider doing?"

Johnny manages to get himself under control, and he looks at Roy, "Babe. I know you laugh, and think this is a crazy idea, but you have two kids. Roy, I have always wanted kids, but once I fell in love with you I just figured that yours would be the ones I would get to have fun with." He looks at Dr. Brackett, "Doc, even if Roy won't talk to the doctor, I would like to."

Roy jumps in, taking Johnny's hand, "Babe. I didn't know it meant this much to you. If you want to talk to this guy, we'll talk to him together." He stops, feeling a little choked up himself, "I love you, Johnny, and I never dreamed that you would want to have my baby. That's just too wierd to even say."

Dr. Brackett hands them a piece of paper with a phone number, "Here is his number. I want you two to understand something. This is not a well-known about procedure. The men who have gone through these pregnancies have been secluded. More than likely you would have to go to his clinic, which is near the Nevada border. You will have to go through testing, and then you will have to take injections of female hormones. They use donor eggs, and fertilize it with the sperm of your lover. Then it is implanted into a pocket on the inside of your abdomen. When it comes time to deliver, you will have a C-section. Because of the hormones, your breasts will get a little larger. All the men who have given birth did breastfeed while at the clinic, to give the baby the first nuitrients, but then chose to bottlefeed when they left. It will change your whole life, Johnny. Both of your lives, Guys. I want you to give him a call, but before you do, make sure you are in total agreement about even trying to conceive. You may not be able to. But, you have to go into it with an open mind, and in total agreement with each other. OK?"

Both guys nod, and Dr. Brackett continues with a little more information, "The guy in Germany who had the first baby, just recently decided to have a second child, and his partner decided to have one, too. So, both of them will be pregnant together, about four months apart. When you guys get off in the morning, go home and talk about this. Also, Johnny, if you decide to do this, you will undergo a complete and thorough physical exam, as well as a psychological exam. And, they will want to talk to you as well, Roy. OK?"

Both guys nod, and then thank Dr. Brackett, and leave the hospital. They go back to the station, and before they can even get out of the squad, they get called out, and are running for the rest of the day, and part of the night.

The next morning when they get off, it is the start of a four-day weekend. Roy has noticed that Johnny has been pretty quiet since they talked to Dr. Brackett. When they get home, he takes him in his arms, and leads him over to the couch.

"Talk to me, Sweetheart. You have been so quiet since we talked to Dr. Brackett, that I know this is weighing heavily on your mind."

Johnny smiles, "Just hold me for right now, Babe. I just want to feel your arms around me."

Roy sits back against the couch, at the end, and pulls Johnny into his arms, holding him close. They don't say anything for awhile, and then Johnny laughs when he hears Roy's stomach growl. He sits up, and then pulls Roy up with him.

"Come on. Let's go fix something to eat, and then go to bed."

They fix some egg sandwiches, and then around 9 am, go upstairs hand-in-hand. They get undressed, get in bed, and Johnny lays in Roy's arms, resting his head on his lover's furry chest. Roy rubs his hands up and down Johnny's back and ass, and after a while, Johnny finally speaks.

"Roy, what do you think about all this. If it is possible to have a baby, would you want to?"

Roy smiles, and strokes Johnny's hair, "Babe, let me tell you something. The time that I was the happiest with Joanne, was when she was pregnant with my babies. Honey, if you can get pregnant, and you want to carry my baby, that just makes my heart swell with more love for you. I know that it is hard enough on a woman, so it won't be a picnic for you. But, Baby, when you told me you wanted to carry my baby, I thought I was gonna cry. My brain finds this whole thing very hard to believe, but my heart is hoping it's possible. Are you sure you want to go through all that?"

Johnny raises up and kisses Roy, looking at him with a heart full of love, "Sweetheart, I don't know for sure what I want to do, but if it is possible for me to have a baby, I want to do it. I love you, Roy, and sometimes I love you so much I feel like my heart is gonna explode. I feel like giving you a baby would be the ultimate 'I love you' gift."

Roy laughs, "Well, that would be a fantastic gift, but Johnny, it's also dangerous. The placenta can attach to organs inside your body, and they might have to end up removing vital organs. We will talk to this guy, and then we'll talk some more after we have more facts, but I don't want you to do anything unless YOU want to have the baby for YOU. Yes, I would love it if you had my baby, but I want you to do it because you want to have a baby. And, we have to think about what will happen after the baby is born. Where are we gonna live, how will we explain having a baby, especially two gay men having a child living with them. Joanne has a fit when Chris and Jen come over even for a few hours. I am pretty sure if we do this, we will end up relocating to wherever this place is."

Johnny sighs, "Oh Roy. I never thought about the fact that Joanne might never let you see the kids again, because she would sure be upset if I had a baby."

Roy hugs Johnny a little tighter, "I don't know how she would react, but don't worry about that. We'll get the facts we need, and go from there."

They are quiet for a few more minutes, and then Johnny raises up again, looking into his lover's face, "Can I tell you what I would love to happen? This is just my dream, and it probably wouldn't ever happen, but it would be great if I was able to have two children."

Roy nods, "We'll see. But, for now, let's go to sleep. I am tired, Babe! I love you."

Johnny kisses him, "I love you, too!"

After a long, passionate kiss, they cuddle up together, and go to sleep.

**********************

After a weekend of a lot of talking seriously about the ramifications of conceiving, and carrying a child to term, as well as raising one, Roy finally decides to call the doctor Dr. Brackett told them about. They reach a decision that if it is possible, Johnny will go through the procedures, and see if he can conceive.

Monday morning after they eat breakfast, Roy asks Johnny for the phone number. "Babe? Where is the number for that doctor? Do you have it?"

Johnny nods, "It's upstairs in my billfold. Are you gonna call him now?"

Roy nods as he stands up and begins clearing the table, "Yeah, I'll call him, but I want you right there next to me."

Johnny helps him clean up the kitchen, and then goes upstairs and gets the piece of paper with the number. They sit down on the couch, and Roy calls the doctor.

"Dr. Shifter's office. This is Mary. May I help you?"

Roy leans over so Johnny can hear, too, as he speaks, "Yes ma'am. My name is Roy DeSoto. Dr. Kelly Brackett gave us this number to talk to Dr. Shifter."

"OK, Roy, thank you for calling. I am Mary Shifter, the doctor's wife. Do you mind if I ask you a few questions?"

Roy shrugs, "Yeah, that's fine."

"OK, let me ask you this. I am assuming you are in a gay relationship. Is this correct?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"OK. Have you and your partner been together at least five years?"

"Yes, we have been together seven years, in fact."

"Oh, good. The longer the better. Now, are you the one who wants to go through the testing?"

"No, ma'am, it's my partner who does. We are both a little amazed about this whole thing, and we'd like some more information, too."

"I understand that. We really prefer not to give out to much information over the phone. Would you two be able to come for a meeting this afternoon?"

Roy looks at Johnny, who shrugs, and Roy doesn't care, either, "Yes ma'am, that would be fine. Where could we meet with you?"

"How about we meet you for lunch in Victorville at the Medical Pavallion around 1 pm. Would that be OK?"

"Yes, ma'am. We'll see you there. Thank you."

Roy hangs up, and looks at Johnny, "They sure are very careful. That's good though. What time is it?"

Johnny glances at the clock over the fireplace, "It's 10:00. It's probably gonna take us two hours to get there. Maybe longer since it's noon."

Roy stands up, pulling Johnny up with him, and holds him in his arms. "Well, let's go ahead and get going, and then if we get there a little early, we can always find a place to make out or something!" He gives Johnny a long, passionate kiss, but pulls back when Johnny tries to take it further. "Whoa, Babe. We better not get too carried away! I love you, very much!"

Johnny smiles, "I love you, too. And thank you for going along with me on this."

Roy shakes his head, "Baby, I love you, and if you want to give me a baby, I will help you in any way I can." Roy gives him a quick kiss, "C'mon, and let's get changed and get on the road."

They change clothes, and leave around 10:15. They don't say much on the way, both of them deep in thought about how much their lives could change in just a matter of months.

They arrive in Victorville around 12:30, and quickly locate the Medical Pavillion. They sit in the car for a few minutes, wondering which part they should go in. Finally, they just get out and go towards the main entrance. Right before they get to the doors, a man and woman walk out of the front doors, and the woman speaks.

"Roy DeSoto?"

Roy nods, and the woman introduces the doctor to them, and they all shakes hands, and then turn and go in the building, and up to the third floor. They enter an office that just has Dr. Shifter and Assoc. on it.

Dr. Shifter smiles at them after they come in, "Please. Have a seat Gentlemen. I understand Dr. Brackett referred you. Is that correct?"

Roy nods, "Yes, sir."

Dr. S. smiles. "Good, and so I can make sure we are on the same page, please tell me what he told you I could help you with?"

Roy laughs, "Boy, I hope this is right, because if this is not true, we are gonna be very embarrassed. He told us that you have been successfull with helping men have children."

Dr. S. nods, and sits back in his chair, while his wife makes some coffee, "Yes, that is true. Now, Roy, and Johnny, how long have you been together?"

Roy takes Johnny's hand as he talks, "We have been together seven years."

"That is wonderful! Do either one of you have children from a previous marriage?"

Roy nods, "Yes, I do. I have a son and a daughter."

Dr. S. makes some notes as he talks and listens, "Johnny, why do you want to be the one to carry a child?"

Johnny looks at Roy and smiles, "Because I love Roy very much, and I can't think of a better expression of my love than to be able to bear a child. Dr. Shifter, I have always wanted children, and I had always hoped someday that I would have them, like with a woman!" They all laugh, "But, when I met and fell in love with Roy, he already had children, and I just figured I'd be like a stepdad to them. I never gave anymore thought to having kids until I heard about this. We saw an article in a magazine about two men who had just had a baby, and then Dr. Brackett approached us about it, and I knew that was what I wanted to do."

Dr. Shifter nods and takes notes. His wife gives them all a cup of coffee, and she sits down to join the meeting. Dr. Shifter speaks to Roy, "Roy, what do you think about all this? It will change your life, which I am sure you know since you have kids. What were your first thoughts?"

Roy laughs, "Well, to be real honest, I thought it was a joke. I couldn't believe that a man had actually had a baby. And I was ready to laugh it off when Dr. Brackett told us about it, but I hadn't realized how much Johnny was interested in this. We have spent the weekend talking about this, thinking about how it will change our lives, and he has told me several times he wants to do this. And if he wants to do it, I will be right there beside him every step of the way, holding his hand, rubbing his back, whatever it takes. I love him very much, Dr. Shifter, and I have told him that it just means a lot to me that he wants to have my baby."

Johnny squeezes Roy's hand, and they lock eyes for a minute, sending their love to each other. Dr. Shifter smiles at the interaction between the two, and the silent expression of love. He looks at his wife and winks.

"OK, Gentlemen, here is what I am gonna have you do. We have a medical questionairre that we want both of you to take home and fill out. It is quite extensive because there are questions about the health of your family for several generations. Then when you get that filled out, you can give it to Dr. Brackett. Both of you will be required to undergo a complete physical exam, as well as a psychological exam. Oh, let me add this. Because this is experimental, and we are testing men for this, there is no cost to you for these exams, or any of the IVF procedures. After Dr. Brackett has done your physicals, which does entail a lot of bloodwork, as well as EKG's and EEG's, he will send the results to me, and I will contact you to set up another meeting. Johnny, if you are compatable, and it works out that you begin to try to conceive, you will begin taking daily shots of the female hormone R2D2H51. But that could be a month down the road. Now, do either one of you have any questions?"

Johnny speaks up, "Yeah, I do. Will we have to live somewhere else?"

Dr. Shifter nods, "Yes, we prefer that you live on the grounds where our clinic is located, beginning around your fourth month, or when you really start to have to wear larger clothing. I know that you are both firefighters, and once you decide to go into this, Johnny, you will not be able to work."

Johnny nods, "I figured that. Do the shots hurt?"

Dr. Shifter smiles, "They are a bit uncomfortable, and you will have to have one every morning, but don't worry about that now. Take these forms, fill them out, and then after Dr. Brackett sends them to me, I will call you back."

Roy speaks up, "Dr. Shifter, where is this clinic?"

Dr. Shifter just smiles, "Well, we prefer to keep that confidential right now, but it's out in the desert. And, we ask that you reveal to no one what you are going to be doing!"

Roy and Johnny just laugh, and Johnny just says, "Who would believe us?"

The doctor gives them the forms to fill out, and then they shake hands and leave. When they get out to the car, Johnny just shakes his head, "Man, Roy! They want to know everything about everybody!"

Roy starts the car up, "Well, they want to make sure there are no deadly diseases in either family, I guess. Babe? Do you want to get something to eat here, or go home?"

Johnny looks around to see if he can spot a place to eat, "Naw! Let's just go home."

And they takes off for home, as Dr. Shifter and his wife watch them leave from his office window. His wife turns to him after they are out of sight.

"What do you think, Dear? I think that young man would be a wonderful test subject. They are a very special couple."

Dr. Shifter nods, "Yes, they are, and they are very much in love. I hope it works out that he can conceive because I know Roy would be a great support system for him. Well, let's head on back, and wait for word on them.

Dr. Shifter and his wife leave the building, and go back to their clinic. Roy and Johnny are headed home, waiting to see what the future may bring them.

While Roy and Johnny are driving back to their ranch, on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Johnny reads over the long health form, reading some of the questions out loud to Roy. About halfway home, Roy reaches over and takes his hand. Johnny looks up with a smile, "What do you think?"

Roy rubs his thumb over Johnny's hand, "I think we are in for a lot of changes. Baby, please be sure this is something you want to do because you are gonna be so miserable when you are 9 months and uncomfortably pregnant. But, just getting pregnant is gonna be an adventure. And you know what Dr. Brackett's "complete and thorough" physicals are like. I have a feeling this one is gonna be even more intensive."

Johnny puts the medical forms in the backseat, and turns a little in the seat to face Roy, and hold his hand between his, "Roy, I want to do this. I have thought about all that, and yes, I'm dreading one of Dr. Brackett's physicals. And I know, when and if I get pregnant, that I am gonna be miserable and uncomfortable and probably a real bitch to live with, but I love you so much, I don't know of a better way to express it. And, even though we won't be conceiving a child the old-fashioned way, we can always pretend we are whenever we make love! That will be a lot of fun!!!"

Roy laughs, and then brings Johnny's hand to his mouth, kissing it tenderly, "I love you so much, Johnny. I can't believe you actually want to do this, but I promise to be right by you every step of the way." He takes a deep breath, "And, you know we are gonna have to figure out what to do about working. We can go on Leave of Absence, but I think we both know that once you have the baby, we won't go back. I have been thinking about talking to the Chief of the Fire Department for the area wherever we are going to be. I can at least be a Paramedic Trainer and we could start a Paramedic Program."

Johnny nods, thinking, "Yeah, that's true, but don't you think that Dr. Brackett had considered that when he approached us with this idea. I bet if we talked to him, he would help us figure out how we could work. I just don't know how we are gonna explain this to the guys."

Roy smiles, "Yeah, but I think Mike and Hank might be easier to explain it to then it will be to explain it to Marco and Chet. Mostly Chet. I think Marco just takes this all in stride."

Johnny gives him a puzzled look, "What do you mean, Babe?"

Roy shrugs, "I think he knows about you and me, and I think he knows about Hank and Mike. But, Marco is quiet, and he just observes what is going on without saying anything. I don't think he will be too surprised to find out about this. He might be shocked at first, but I don't think it will surprise him."

Johnny shakes his head, laughing, thinking about the other guy's reactions to all this, "You know, Roy. We should tell Mike and Hank about this, because they might want to try it themselves."

Roy isn't too sure about that idea, and answers cautiously, "I think we better hold off on telling this to anyone, Sweetheart. Let's get through the forms, and the exams, and see what happens. I guess I am probably gonna end up having to give you a shot every morning."

A big grin brightens up Johnny's face as he realizes something, "Hey, Roy? You know how you love sucking my tits?" He laughs when he sees Roy's sideways, questioning glance, "Well, now there will be more to suck if those hormones work!"

Roy just groans and shakes his head, "Johnny, not only will it make your nipples grow, but they will be very tender, too. and, oh man! You will probably get very moody, too! And not only from the hormones, but just from being pregnant. OK, Babe, we are coming up to the road where we need to turn, but do we want to go home, or go by the hospital and talk to Dr. Brackett?"

Johnny points at their turn, and Roy slows down, "Let's go home, and then we can call him, and maybe invite him over. I'd rather talk to him away from the hospital."

Roy makes the turn, and they arrive home in a few minutes. Johnny gets the forms and they go in the house. Roy walks into the kitchen, with Johnny following him, and he asks what he wants to eat, "What do you want to eat, Hon?"

Johnny shrugs, "I don't know. Sandwich, I guess."

Roy turns around and just looks at Johnny for a minute. He laughingly shakes his head, and then turns and starts getting the makings for sandwiches out of the fridge. Johnny rolls his eyes, "What was that for?"

Roy laughs, "I was just trying to picture you skinny and pregnant. You are definitely going to have to eat more!"

They sit down and eat, not really saying too much. When they finish, Roy goes to the phone and calls Dr. Brackett. He invites him and Dixie over for dinner that night. When he gets off the phone, he explains to Johnny why he invited them over for dinner, when he sees the question in his eyes.

"I invited them over for dinner, because I'd rather talk to both of them. I am gonna get some Chinese food delivered. They will be here about 8 pm." He wraps his arms around Johnny, "But, now, my Sweet Love, why don't we go upstairs, and practice making a baby!"

Johnny grins from ear to ear when he hears that offer, and leans in to kiss Roy, "Oooo, I like that plan. We can never practice too much!"

Roy takes him by the hand, leading him upstairs, "That is true. Let me show you how much fun practice can be, and you know, don't you, that practice makes perfect!"

Johnny groans as he follows his lover upstairs, "And I am sure we will get a LOT of practice in!"

Roy turns as they enter the bedroom, "Oh, Baby! You can count on that!"

Roy slowly begins to undress Johnny, scattering kisses over the bare skin as he removes his t-shirt and jeans and briefs. When he has him completely naked, Roy lays him down on the bed, quickly removes his own clothes, and then lays down beside him, on his right side, looking down at the beauty of his lover in all his naked glory.

"I love you so much, and I love to just look at you." He runs his hand lightly over Johnny's abdomen, "I hate that your beautiful skin will be stretched as you grow with a pregnancy, and I want you to be so careful. I love you so much, Johnny. Part of me wants to tell you, 'NO! Don't do this! It's too dangerous! It's just too crazy!' But, in my heart I just feel so full of love because you do want to do this."

Roy leans over and kisses his lover gently and tenderly, before pulling him into his arms, and kissing him passionately as they rub their very erect cocks together. Johnny opens his legs wide to give Roy better access, and after a few minutes of gentle stretching, Roy carefully enters his lover, pushing in deep as Johnny groans when he feels the fullness of his lover.

They start slowly, but gradually the frenzy of their lovemaking builds, with Roy jerking Johnny's hard, throbbing cock in the same rhythm as he thrusts in and out of his love canal.

Johnny screams out his lover's name as he cums, exploding his love all over both of their stomachs.

Roy is barely holding on to his control, and when Johnny explodes, the muscle contractions inside his ass squeeze Roy's painful cock, and that's all it takes to send Roy over the edge with a scream, shooting his lover's ass full of his hot cum.

They collapse in each other's arms, holding on to each other as they regain their breathing, and finally fall asleep whispering soft words of love to each other as they drift off.

Around five pm Roy and Johnny wake up, get up and take a long, hot shower together, then get dressed. They go downstairs and get ready for Dr. Brackett and Dixie to come for dinner. Around 7 pm Dixie calls to let them know they are leaving the hospital. Roy calls to order the Chinese food, then they set the table, and get everything ready for their company.

The Chinese food arrives about five minutes before Kel and Dixie get there, giving Roy and Johnny enough time to set everything out. When Kel and Dixie arrive, Johnny lets them in, then they all sit down at the table to eat and talk.

After everyone gets settled with a plate full of food, Kel questions Roy, "Well, Roy, did you and Johnny get to talk to Dr. Shifter?"

Roy nods, smiling as he reaches over to take Johnny's hand, "Yes, we did. Is Dixie up on all this?"

Dixie laughs, "Uh, Roy, I helped deliver the baby that this man from California had!"

Both Roy and Johnny look at her with shock and amazement, and Johnny just shakes his head, "WOW! I can't believe you got to do that! It WAS a C-section, right?"

Dixie explains with a laugh, "Yes, I assisted, and then took care of the newborn, and helped run tests on it. It is a beautiful baby, and perfect in every way. Now, tell me, Johnny. Are you going to be the one to carry a child?"

Johnny squeezes Roy's hand, grinning brightly as he tells Dix and Kel their plans, "Yes, I am. We spent the weekend talking and thinking and of course, practicing!"

Kel almost chokes on his food when he starts laughing, "Uh, practicing? Do I want to know the answer to that?"

Roy laughs, "Well, we know we can't conceive the oldfashioned way, so we decided we'll just pretend every time we make love, that we are making a baby, too!"

Kel just shakes his head, "I knew it had to be something like that. Have you filled out the forms yet?"

Roy shakes his head, "No, not all of it. We've gone over it and talked about it, but Doc, the reason we wanted to talk to you, was because I figured if you were approaching us about this, that surely you must have some idea of how I am gonna be able to work while he is pregnant." Roy stops with a funny look on his face, chuckling a little bit before he continues, "Those words really sound funny together, but anyway, I plan to be right by his side the whole time he is pregnant, so how am I gonna earn any money?"

Kel smiles, "Well, I have thought about that, Roy, and I have also talked to the Fire Chief of the area where this clinic is located, and he would love for you to start a Paramedic program, and have you as the Director of it!"

Roy smiles at that idea, but then questions the doctor, "How does he know about our situation?"

Kel gets some more of the Chinese food before answering, then he answers with a twinkle in his eye, "Well, it just so happens, his brother is the partner of the young man who just had the baby. We got to talking one day, and got on the subject of the Paramedic program, and he is eager to have one in his county. After Johnny has completed all the tests, and once he has been accepted at the clinic, then I will introduce you to the Fire Chief."

Johnny speaks up, "What does he think about this situation with his brother and his partner?"

Kel laughs, "Well, he was pretty shocked at first, but he is delighted now. Johnny, I hope before you do this, you understand what you are getting in to."

Johnny nods, "I think I do, Doc. Like I said, we spent a lot of time this weekend talking about it, and about how it would change our lives. But, like I told Roy, and Dr. Shifter." He looks at Roy, who squeezes his hand before he continues, "Doc, I love Roy very much. I have always wanted children, but figured once I was with Roy, I'd get to be a step-parent to his kids. I feel like this is the ultimate expression of my love to my lover. If there is anyway at all I can do this, I want to. I know I am gonna have to go through one of your "extremely thorough" physicals," Johnny rolls his eyes and Kel and Dixie laugh. Roy gets up and begins clearing the table as Johnny speaks, then gets everyone some coffee, "and I know I am probably gonna be miserable having to get shots every day. I will probably be cussing you all out when I am in my ninth month and totally miserable, but you know what? I don't care. I want to do this. As long as I have Roy by my side, I know I can do this." Johnny gets up and puts his arms around Roy, who is pouring four cups of coffee, "If I embarrass ya'll over what I'm about to say, I'm sorry, but I need to say it." He looks at Roy with tears in his eyes as he speaks tenderly, "Not only is Roy my lover, he is my friend, my partner, my helper, my right hand, the other half of my heart, and my soulmate. He is the one I lean on when I can't stand by myself, and he is the shoulder I cry on when life gets a little rough. He has been there for me time and time again through all kinds of situations in the past seven years." He glances at Kel and Dix, who both are wiping the tears from their eyes, and then looks back at his lover, who has tears rolling down his cheeks, "Roy, I know you will stand right beside me through all this, because I would never be able to do it without your support and your love. I love you, Baby."

There is not a sound in the room as Johnny embraces his lover, kissing him tenderly, before they part. Johnny sits back down at the table, and Roy brings the coffee over, sitting down beside Johnny while everyone gets their composure back. Kel clears his throat after a few minutes, "Well, don't ever apologize for speaking what's in your heart, Johnny. I think I can say you have passed the psychological part of the exam, but I'll ask you a few questions later when I do your physical."

Dixie wipes her eyes, and looks at Johnny, "Johnny, that was beautiful, and I have seen that love between you two for many years. I will tell you this. If you do start taking the hormone shots, Roy will have to give them to you every morning for a month, and then you will go to the clinic, where some tests will be done to see if your body is ready to try the procedure. Once it has been determined that the sperm fertilized the egg, by IVF, then minor surgery will be done to implant it in a fold in your abdomen. A few weeks later another test will be done to see if you are indeed growing a child."

Roy looks at her with concern, "What would happen if it wasn't a viable pregnancy, and he lost it. Would he bleed any?"

Kel nods, "Yes, there would be some blood when he urinates, and that's when you would need to get to the clinic immediately. But, you will be staying at the clinic once the IVF is done, so he will be monitored closely. And don't expect it to work the first time. The guy who just had the baby had to undergo four months of shots, and the first two implants didn't work. Also, several eggs will be implanted, in hopes that one will take."

Johnny laughs, "Any twins yet?"

Kel rolls his eyes, "No, not yet, thank goodness!"

Roy groans at that thought, "Oh man! Don't even mention twins! Uh, Doc, whose sperm would be used? Mine or his?"

Kel smiles, "Either one, Roy. We can even mix your sperm so you won't know which one of you was lucky until the baby is born."

Roy looks at Johnny with a grin, "Mmm, that sounds interesting! Now, answer me this. What is he gonna have to go through for the physical, and if I understood right, I am gonna have to have one, too?"

Kel nods, "Yes, you will, Roy, just to make sure you are both in good health, but I know you are. I am gonna do the same on both of you. I am gonna do EKG's, and EEG's, as well as X-ray both of your abdomens, just in case you decide you want to go through this Roy."

Roy starts laughing, and waving his hands, "OH NO! I am not gonna do this! He is the one who is going to! Not me!"

"OK, but you never know. Anyway, we'll do a UA, as well as take blood for a CBC, as well as various other blood tests. Also, we'll get a sperm sample, get chest x-rays, thorough exam of everything, including pelvis, and rectal exam. You guys may as well figure on most of the day for all this. When do you want to do it?"

Roy sighs, not really wanting to do it, "Oh, I don't know." He looks at Johnny, "Next week on our days off Babe? We work tomorrow and Friday, and then Monday, so how about next Wednesday?"

Johnny nods, and Dix makes a note of it, then they all get up as Dix and Kel get ready to leave. Johnny asks another question just before they walk out the door, "Doc? Is there any chance I could talk to this guy who just had the baby. Find out about his feelings on it and stuff?"

Kel thinks for a minute, "I don't know, Johnny. Let me find out and I'll let you know. OK?"

Johnny nods, and then he and Roy tell them goodbye, and stand at the door with their arms around each other, watching them leave. When they are out of sight, Roy turns Johnny to face him, cupping his face as he kisses him tenderly, "I love you so much, and what you said was beautiful. Let's clean up this dishes, and then go to bed!"

Johnny kisses Roy back, then hurridly helps him clean up the kitchen. Thirty minutes later they race upstairs, and fall on the bed, kissing passionately as the battle for dominance. Roy lets Johnny take over, and before long, their clothes are on the floor, and they spend the night making slow, passionate love to each other.

*************************

During the next week, Roy and Johnny fill out the medical forms and discuss more about this upcoming possible pregnancy. Dixie tells them to come to the hospital at 7 am on Wednesday, and be prepared to stay at least four hours, maybe more. They don't say anything to Hank and Mike, but they really want to tell them.

Roy spends a lot of time just holding Johnny, cuddling together on the porch or in bed, as they ponder their future. When they get off work on Tuesday morning, they invite Hank and Mike out to the house for breakfast, because they have decided to share this with them. Roy is so overwelmed by all that has happened in a few short weeks that he needs to have someone to share his fears with. He is fearful for, and concerned about, his lover. He knows how dangerous this pregnancy could be for Johnny because any number of things could happen that would endanger his life. Roy need to talk to someone other than Kel or Dixie, and he doesn't want to worry Johnny. He also knows that Johnny knows about the life-threatening dangers, but is choosing to ignore them right now.

While they drive home, Roy feels like they need to get some things said that have been left unsaid, and he also knows they could end up having a big fight. He knows this is gonna be a real test of their love and their relationship.

Johnny senses how quiet Roy is as they drive home, and he reaches over, rubbing his hand lightly over Roy's thigh. "Babe? What's wrong? Why are you so quiet?"

Roy smiles, "I'm just tired I guess, and just thinking about how to tell Hank and Mike all this."

Johnny laughs, "I don't think it's gonna be anything they ever thought they would hear!"

Roy pulls up in their driveway, and they go inside and start preparing pancakes and sausage for breakfast. While Roy is cooking, Johnny fixes coffee and pours several glasses of milk and orange juice. Around 9 am Johnny looks out and sees Hank and Mike drive up, and pretty soon they are all sitting at the table enjoying a big breakfast.

Hank looks at Roy, sensing something is bothering him, "Roy? You sure have been quiet the last week or so. What's up with you two?"

Roy grins, and glances at Johnny, who reaches out to take his hand, nodding slightly. Roy clears his throat, and takes a sip of coffee, "Well, Hank, and Mike, Johnny and I are fixing to have a major change in our lives!"

Hank looks shocked, "You aren't breaking up, are you?"

Both Roy and Johnny quickly shake their heads, and Roy continues, "No, no. Nothing like that. We are very much in love, but what we have to tell you can't leave this house. At least not right now. And, also, what I am gonna tell you about, I want the two of you to consider this."

Hank nods, taking Mike's hand, "OK, come on! We are dying of curiousity here. Tell us!"

Roy takes a deep breath, "Well, Johnny and I are gonna become parents."

Hank and Mike laugh, and congratulate them, but Roy holds up his hand, "Wait a minute. Let me finish. Johnny is going to try to carry a baby to term through IVF. There is a doctor who has been successful with three other men, and we were asked if we would be interested, and Johnny wants to do it."

Hank and Mike sit there quietly with a look of shock and disbelief on their faces, but they listen to Roy, knowing he would never lie about something so serious. Finally Hank speaks up, "I just don't know what to say. That is too amazing, and almost too hard to believe." He looks over at Mike, "Babe? Would you want to do something like that?"

Mike shrugs, "I don't know, Hon. Johnny, why do you want to do this?"

Johnny smiles, scooting his chair closer to Roy. Hank watches Roy as Johnny talks, and notices a look of sadness in Roy's eyes, or fear. He decides to have a talk with him as soon as he can pull him away for a few minutes.

Johnny eagerly explains, "Well, I love Roy very much. I have always wanted to have children, thinking of course, that it would be the regular way! When I fell in love with Roy, I just figured I'd get to be a step-parent to his kids. When I found out about this procedure, I knew it was something I wanted to do, as the ultimate expression of my love to my lover. I go tomorrow for the physical, and then we'll go from there. We have talked a lot about this, and I know what I am getting into. I know I am facing at least a month of hormone shots, and maybe more if the first IVF doesn't take. I know if it does take, I am gonna be fat and miserable and bitchy. But, I also know that Roy is gonna be right by my side though all this."

Hank and Mike listen quietly as Johnny tells them all this, and then suddenly Hank realizes something, "Hey! Wait a minute! Is this your way of telling me that I am gonna lose two Paramedics?"

Roy kinda laughs, "Weeeellllll, it's possible. Johnny can work while he takes the shots, but once they decide to implant the embryo, he has to stay at the clinic, which means I will be right beside him. We'll take a leave of absence until we know if this is gonna work."

Hank runs his hands through his hair, shaking his head over this news, "Oh man! This is unbelievable! Johnny? Are you SURE you want to do this?"

Johnny just grins and nods, and reaches over to hug Roy. Roy chose that moment to get up and get some more coffee, and Hank decided to take him aside and talk to him.

"Roy? Come on out to the car for a minute. Mike, why don't you help Johnny clean up here."

Roy looks surprised, and Johnny looks a little upset. He stands up quickly, "Why do you want to talk to Roy? So you can talk to him about talking me out of this?"

Roy places his hand on Johnny's shoulder, "Calm down, Babe. I just want to talk to Hank for a few minutes, OK. He isn't gonna talk me into or out of anything." Roy gives Johnny a quick kiss, and follows Hank out to the car. Actually, they stand against the car and talk.

Hank nods to Roy, "OK, I can tell there is something you want to get off your chest. When you talk about this, and when Johnny talks about it, I see fear in your eyes. What's wrong?"

Roy sighs, shaking his head, "Hank. He is so happy about this, and I am so scared for him. Don't get me wrong. I am thrilled to death that he wants to have a baby. What scares me is that this is a very dangerous procedure. Any number of things could go wrong, and I would lose the love of my life." Tears begin to slip down Roy's face as he talks to Hank, and Hank reaches over and pats him on the back as Roy continues, "And, I know Johnny knows all this, but he I think he is refusing to think about it. It just suddenly dawned on me the other day that I could lose him. This is considered an etopic pregnancy, meaning the egg could rupture and he could bleed to death. The embryo is implanted into a fold in his abdomen, and as he grows, so does the placenta, and that placenta can attach to anything in it's path. They could end up not only removing a baby, but also his liver or his bowels or half his stomach. He could also bleed to death. Or he could miscarry and bleed to death!"

Hank shakes his head as he listens to Roy pour his heart out, "Roy? Have you and Johnny talked about that part of it?"

Roy wipes the tears from his eyes, and shakes his head, "No. He is so excited that I haven't said anything to him. I know we are fixing to have a big fight over this because I need to make him see the whole picture."

"Are you sure you are excited about him having a baby? It's gonna be a big change in your lives. I know you know that, but this time it's a little different. And how are you gonna support yourself. I know you are gonna have to move, aren't you?"

Roy nods, "Yeah, but that's being taken care of. I might as well tell you that Dr. Brackett and Dixie are in on this, and they have helped deliver the baby who was recently born to a guy in California. I have no idea where the clinic is, but we'll have to stay there." He bows his head for a minute, and then looks at Hank, "Hank? Am I wrong to let him do this? I am so scared for him."

Hank puts his arm around Roy, "Roy, I think you two need to have a long talk, before he has the physical tomorrow. I am scared for him, too. I can't say if you are wrong to let him do this, because I don't know how I would feel if Michael wanted to do it. By the look in his eyes when he heard about it, he just might want to. But, you two need to talk and get your fears out in the open. And if you get thrown out of the house, come over and see us. We'll make you feel better!"

Roy rolls his eyes, laughing a little, "Is that an offer?"

Hank shrugs, "Could be. When he is 9 months pregnant, and you are hornier than hell, maybe Mike and I can help you out. But, you make sure you get Johnny's permission!"

Roy laughs, and hugs Hank, "Always! And thanks for letting me get this off my chest."

Hank and Roy walk back into the house, and Mike and Johnny are washing dishes, and rubbing against each other. Hank goes over and kisses Mike, "If you two are through playing with each other, we need to go now!"

Mike laughs as he dries his hands, and then tosses the towel to Roy, "We weren't playing, Babe! See you guys later!"

Roy walks them to the door, then returns to the kitchen. Johnny is finished with the dishes, and he leans against the counter when Roy comes back in.

"So? What was that all about?"

Roy sighs, "Johnny, we need to talk."

Johnny throws down the kitchen towel on the counter, "Why? So you can talk me out of this? I thought you were all for it?"

Roy pulls out the chair and motions for Johnny to sit down. He pulls out the other chair and sits down. Johnny reluctantly sits down, but he folds his arms when he does, and looks like he is about to cry. Roy takes his hands in his, "Babe, I am not gonna talk you out of having a baby, but we need to talk about a few things. Johnny, I am _scared_ _to_ _death_ for you. Please don't misunderstand what I am trying to say. I am delighted that you want to have a baby! But, Honey, what scares me is that this is a very dangerous procedure. I am been worrying about this for a week, and I have to share this with you, whether you want to hear it or not. Will you please hear me out?"

Johnny just nods as he holds on to Roy's hands, and listens as Roy continues, "Baby, this scares me because any number of things could go wrong. And I think you know this, but you don't want to think about it." Roy takes a deep breath, "Baby, anything could go wrong and I would lose the love of my life." Tears begins to roll down his face as he shares his fears with his lover.

"Baby, it suddenly dawned on me the other day that I could lose you. This is considered an etopic pregnancy, so the egg could rupture and you could bleed to death. That embryo is gonna be implanted into a fold in your abdomen, so as you grow, so does the placenta, and that placenta can attach to anything in it's path. They could end up not only removing a baby, but also your liver or bowels or half your stomach. And Baby, you could miscarry and bleed to death before they could do anything about it. Johnny, I love you with all my heart, but I am so scared, I don't know what to do. Have you thought about any of this?"

Johnny wipes away some tears from his eyes, and looks into his lover's eyes, seeing love mixed with fear, "Yes, I have, and I just tried not to think about it. I don't want to leave you with a baby to raise, either." More tears begin to stream from his face, and Roy holds him close, listening as Johnny shares his fears, "Roy, I am terrified! I AM excited, but I am so scared. I haven't said anything because I just thought I was being silly. I couldn't do this if you weren't gonna be right here beside me. I don't know how I am gonna feel having something inside me, kicking me, and making me miserable. I know that the placenta can attach to anything, and something vital might have to be removed. But, whenever I think of one of the bad things that could happen, I just try to think about how much I love you, and how much I want to give you a baby." He stops and wipes away the tears that are falling down Roy's face, "I love you so much. I am sorry I made you worry. I hope I don't give you too much to worry about when we do this. Will you let me give you a baby?"

Roy can only nod, too choked up by emotion to speak. The two lovers sit at the table, holding each other, for about an hour. Roy caresses Johnny's face, "I love you so much. I was so afraid that we would end up having a huge fight over this, but Hank encouraged me to talk to you." He laughs a little, "He also offered to comfort me if you threw me out!"

Johnny laughs, "So did Mike! It's a good thing we don't need to go over there." Johnny looks at Roy with seriousness, "Roy, when I am 9 months pregnant, and don't feel like making love, but you are so horny you are about to explode, let them love on you, and take care of your needs!"

Roy looks a little surprised that Johnny would say what he was about to say, "I will if I have to, but I am sure I won't want to leave your side! Now, what do you say, we go upstairs, take a nap, take a shower, and then let me make love to you. And, after seven, we won't be able to make love because of the physicals tomorrow, and then tonight before we go to bed, we can do what we need to do so Dr. Brackett will be happy."

Johnny just groans as they stand and walk upstairs holding hands, "Oh man, Babe! I hate it when he makes us do that!"

Roy laughs, "I know, I do too, but when he says an "extensive physical" that's what he means!"

They undress and lay down, and right before they fall asleep, Roy has to laugh when he hears Johnny say he feels like the Roto Rooter Man.

Early the next morning, the alarm goes off way too early and too loud for a 5:30 am on their day off wake up. Roy reaches over and slaps it off. Johnny turns over and covers up his head, whining, "It's TOO early to get up!"

Roy snuggles up next to him, but he is the voice of reason, "I know, Babe, but we have to be at the hospital at 7 am. The sooner we get there, the sooner we can get it over with!"

Johnny groans, "I know, but I don't want to go do this at all!"

Roy leans over and kisses him, "Yes, you do. You want a baby, don't you?"

Johnny grumbles, and turns to look at Roy, "Is that your way of saying a baby is gonna keep us up all hours of the night? And I should get up now and get used to it?"

Roy laughs, and holds Johnny in his arms, kissing him tenderly, "Well, that too. But, we are gonna have a lot of days when we are gonna have to get up early for tests and stuff so get used to it!"

They share a long, passionate kiss, but Roy pulls back when he feels Johnny arousal growing against his leg.

Johnny cries out indignantly, "ROY! You get me all hot and bothered, and then you pull away! That's not nice!"

Roy stands up, "Sorry, Babe, but no sex till later! Remember? Dr. Brackett asked us to please refrain from intercourse for 12 hours prior. Come on and get up. We can take a shower together!"

Reluctantly, Johnny gets out of bed, and they take a quick shower, shave, and get dressed. They are ready to leave the house at 6 am, but Roy takes Johnny in his arms before they leave.

"Baby, I know you aren't thrilled about this part of the tests and stuff, but it is necessary. Please be a good boy!" He laughs as Johnny turns a little red, then kisses him, and they leave.

On the way to the hospital, they don't speak much, but they do hold hands the whole way. The traffic is heavy but not too bad, and they are able to get to Rampart around 6:45 am. Johnny grumbles as Roy parks the car. "We could've slept 15 more minutes!"

Roy shakes his head as they get out of the car, "No, we couldn't. If we had left the house any later, we would have hit some heavy traffic. Not quit your grumbling!" He squeezes Johnny's hand as they walk toward the ER, but then release it as they get closer to the doors.

When they enter the ER, Dixie is waiting for them by the ER desk, and waves them over to Dr. Brackett's office. They go in and sit down. Kel is on the phone, but hangs up shortly after they come in.

"Morning, guys! I just got off the phone with Dr. Shifter, and the young man who had the baby would love to talk to you guys later. So, we thought that maybe after the exams are over with, we'd all go meet for a late lunch in Victorville. Do you want to?"

Johnny nods eagerly, although a little sleepily, "Sure! That sounds great, but don't mention food right now!"

Dr. Brackett smiles, "So, both of you are good and empty, and you have not done what I told you not to do, and you did do what I told you to do?"

Both Roy and Johnny nod, and Dr. Brackett looks at Dixie, "OK, Dix, let's let them be in the same room. I want a urine sample from both of you as soon as you get in there, then Dix is gonna do weight and height, BP, pulse, respiration, and draw blood. Lets do chest and abdomen X-rays next, then the EKG and EEG's. When you are done with that, which Joe is gonna do, then I'll finish the exam. Johnny make sure they get a front and rear view of your lungs, and Dix, I want you to do a TB test on him, too."

Johnny looks shocked, "Why a TB test, Doc?"

Dr. Brackett explains, "Because you have had so many lung infections, I want to make very sure we aren't dealing with anything else. A TB test doesn't hurt."

Johnny smiles, "I know, I was just wondering why. That's the least of things I would worry about."

Dr. Brackett continues explaining what he will do, "I am also gonna do something you may not like, but I want to be thorough. I am gonna do a penile scope, so I can see up into your penis to make sure everything is clear." He smiles when he sees Johnny squirm a little bit, "All it is is a very thin tube so I can see up there and make sure there is no blockage. And I doubt there is. The thin tube is smaller than the tube that is inserted when you have a catheter inserted. Also, I want to do laproscopy, and all that entails is a little incision in your abdomen, and insert a scope, and I will have a look/see, and make sure nothing is wrong in the area where you will be carrying the baby."

Roy interrupts, "Uh, Doc, am I am gonna have to go through that, too?"

Dr. Brackett shakes his head, "No, not unless you decide to have a baby. And, the last wonderful thing I want to do, after the prostate exam, is do a colonoscopy and have a good look at your colon, make sure there is no polyps in your colon or on your rectal walls, and that you look very healthy. I am sure you both will be hating me by the time it's over, but at least you'll know that you are in good health. This last exam is especially important because of your relationship. You could very easily have a tear or something and not know it. I don't know how you wouldn't know it, but that's why I asked you to refrain from intercourse, and get all cleaned out, so I could do this. You did that too, right?"

Both of them nod, and Dr. Brackett stands up, "OK, let's get started."

Roy and Johnny follow Dixie out of the office, and to Treatment Room 7. She hands them both a specimen cup, and an exam gown. Roy goes first, then when he returns, Johnny goes in the bathroom.

Dixie motions for Roy to step on the scales, "OK, Roy, hop up here."

Dixie weighs and measures Roy, then directs him to sit on the exam table. Johnny comes out while she is taking Roy's BP. "Johnny, go over to the cabinet and get two thermometers for me, please."

Johnny gets the thermometers while Dixie finishes taking Roy's vitals. Johnny hands her one thermometer, and she sticks it in Roy's mouth, and lays the other one on the tray while she weighs and measures Johnny.

"OK, Johnny, sit your skinny little butt on the exam table." He does, and she sticks the thermometer in his mouth. While she is waiting for that, she gets ready to take blood from Roy's arm. "OK, Roy, I am gonna be taking a vial of blood from each arm." She gets his arms ready, and then removes the thermometer from Johnny's mouth, and records the temps. She glances at Roy before she starts to take his blood. "Do you think you could stand it if I took blood out of one arm while Johnny takes it out of the other one?"

Roy shrugs and nods, "Yeah, I guess. Johnny is pretty gentle when he takes blood. And, it's fine with me as long as I get to do it to him!"

Dixie nods with a smile, "That'll work." She hands one needle to Johnny, and they take the blood at about the same time. Roy kinda hisses through his teeth at one point, but he does good.

Dixie smiles as she caps the blood, "Which one hurt worse?"

Roy grins at her, "Well, I'd have to say your side because I barely felt him insert the needle!"

Johnny laughs, and hops back up on the table, "Lucky for me!"

Dixie glares jokingly at him, "You better behave Johnny!" She hands a needle to Roy, and they both take the blood. Johnny kinda flinches a little bit when they both insert the needle at the same time, but he survives. Dixie caps the blood, and sends it to the lab.

"OK, Boys. X-ray should be here shortly, so let me do the TB test on you, Johnny. Roy, keep an eye on his arm for a couple of days, and remind me to take a look at his arm if you guys come in tomorrow. It is supposed to be checked in three days, so on your next shift, I'll check it for sure."

Dixie gets the needle and does the tests, and he barely flinches. The exam door opens and X-ray enters. Dixie leaves, and the X-ray tech has Roy lie down first, and takes a picture of his chest and abdomen. Then the X-ray tech takes pictures of Johnny's abdomen, and the front and back of his lungs.

After X-ray leaves, Joe and Dixie come in, pushing the machines for the EEG. Joe smiles at them as he sets up the machine. "OK, Roy, let's do you first on the EKG, and I'll hook Johnny up to the EEG."

Joe and Dixie hook them up, do the tests, and then switch. It takes about 30 minutes, but they are finally done with that, and they anxiously wait for Dr. Brackett to come back.

About 9:30 am Dr. Brackett and Dixie enter, and Dr. Brackett washes his hands and gets several pair of gloves. "OK, Roy, let's start with you. I am gonna start with your eyes and go from there."

Roy sits down on the table, and Johnny stands next to him, holding his hand. Dr. Brackett examines his eyes, ears, nose, throat, lymph nodes, and listens to his lungs and heart. He has him lay down and palpates his nipples, and then his abdomen. Then he pulls out the stirrups, has him put his feet in them, and then does a thorough pelvic exam, leaving Roy very hard. Dr. Brackett gets a specimen cup and has Johnny stroke him to completion so he can get a sperm sample. Dr. Brackett snaps on the gloves, has Roy bend over the table, and does the prostate exam first. "OK, I am gonna do the colonoscopy now, so I need you to get on all fours with your ass in the air."

Roy does as he is told, and while Dr. Brackett does the exam, Johnny rubs Roy's back, and talks softly to him. He can tell by the faces he is making that it is pretty uncomfortable.

Dr. Brackett finishes a few minutes later, "OK, Roy, looks good. You look pretty healthy, inside and out. I do want you to watch your weight though. It would be real easy for you to gain weight when Johnny does. It wouldn't hurt you to lose about 10 lbs. If you do decide to get pregnant, and I know you have said you aren't, but if you do decide to, I want you to lose about 20 lbs before you do. OK?"

Roy nods, and gets off the table, "OK, Doc. Can I get dressed now?"

Dr. Brackett nods, "Yeah. I am sure Johnny is gonna need you beside him."

Roy hurries to get dressed. Dr. Brackett washes his hands again, while Johnny sits down on the table. Dr. Brackett starts examining Johnny, and Roy comes back before long. He stands by Johnny's side as Dr. Brackett examines his eyes, ears, nose, throat, lymph nodes, listens closely to his lungs, and heart.

Then he has Johnny lay down, palpates his nipples, and his abdomen, pulling and stretching the skin a little to see the elasticity of it. He does a thorough pelvic exam, has Roy stroke Johnny to completion to get a sperm sample, then has him lie very still so he can insert the penile scope. Johnny only flinches a little bit at first, but he is OK. Dr. Brackett checks him out, and even lets Roy have a look. He does the prostate, and colonoscopy next, and then has Johnny lie on his back again. "OK, Johnny, everything looks good. Dixie is gonna inject a local, and then we'll do the laproscopy."

Dixie quickly injects a local, and that is the only time Johnny cries out, but Roy is right there beside him, holding his hand. When Johnny tells him he is numb, Dr. Brackett makes a small incision, and inserts the scope. He looks around inside Johnny's abdomen, and then lets Roy look. "Johnny, everything looks great, and there is plenty of room for a baby. When you are impregnated, this is how it will be done."

Dr. Brackett withdraws the scope, and sews a few stitches in the small incision, "Those will dissolve by tomorrow. Roy, before you go to work in the morning, check and make sure it looks OK. Get back here if there are any problems. OK, you can get dressed, Johnny. You guys did great, and everything is fine. Now, it's 12:30. Do you still want to go to Victorville?"

Both Roy and Johnny nod their heads eagerly. After Johnny gets dressed, Dr. Brackett and Dixie tell Joe and Carol they will be back in a few hours, and they meet Roy and Johnny in the parking lot. Roy motions to where their car is, "Doc, why don't we follow you. We don't need to come all the way back to the hospital, and it would be easier to go in our own car."

Dr. Brackett and Dixie get in Kel's car, and Roy and Johnny get in their's. Roy and Johnny hold hands as they follow Kel. After a few miles, Roy squeezes Johnny's hand, "Babe? Are you OK?"

Johnny had laid his head against the door, but he sits up and smiles, "Yeah, Babe, I am fine. Just a little sore. That's colon exam was a little uncomfortable."

Roy nods, "I know. How is your incision?"

Johnny shrugs, "It's still a little numb, but it's fine."

Roy brings Johnny's hand to his lips, kissing him tenderly, "I love you."

Johnny smiles, "I love you, too."

Not much more is said as they travel quietly to Victorville. They arrive at the Medical Center about 2:45 pm, and they all go up the Dr. Shifter's office on the third floor.

A smile brightens up Johnny's face when they open the door and see two men, one of whom is holding a tiny little bundle in his arms.

Dr. Brackett closes the door, and Dr. Shifter comes out of his office with his wife, and introduces everyone.

"Roy and Johnny, I would like for you to meet Jack and John, and their daughter, Jane. Jack is the one who has given birth to this little angel." The four men shake hands with each other, and Dr. Shifter explains a few things, "OK, we are only using first names, and it may be their real names, and it may not be. Until you have been accepted into the program, Johnny, no one's identity will be known. Jack has offered to share his story with you, and, as you can see, they have a beautiful daughter to show off. The actual date, time, and place of birth will not be given. Now, if you guys are ready, we can go into the lounge and talk about their experience."

Everyone nods in agreement and they go to the lounge, which is almost like a livingroom, with comfortable sofas and chairs, and a table with sandwiches and colas on it. Everyone gets comfortable, and Dixie takes the sleeping baby from Jack for awhile.

Roy and Johnny sit together on one sofa, and Dixie sits down next to Johnny so he can see the baby. Jack and John sit down on the opposite sofa, with Mrs. Shifter next to them. Dr. Shifter and Dr. Brackett stand over by the desk and talk quietly while Jack and John share their story.

Jack looks at John, taking his hand in his, "I am not sure where to begin, but I have been in love with this crazy guy for over five years." He looks over at Roy and Johnny, "Do you mind if I ask how long you two have been together?"

Roy smiles, holding Johnny's hand in his, "We have been together over seven years."

Jack continues, "Well, a little over a year ago we heard about a doctor who had successfully helped a man to conceive, and we wanted to have a baby together. Neither one of us have children with anyone else, so we were eager to try this. It took several months of shots, and tests, and more shots, and more tests, but one day...." he looks at his lover, "one day, I actually had the joy of telling John we were gonna be parents. We were so excited.....and I was so sick!" Everyone laughs, "I had morning sickness for about three weeks, and we had a few scares. I had blood in my urine a couple of times, but because we were at the clinic, it was taken care of quickly. It was just a slight bladder infection. From about the time I was three and a half months, until I was 36 weeks, I didn't have too many problems. I was very miserable from about 27 weeks on, but I started having horrible cramps at 36 weeks." He grins a little with slight embarrassment, "Turns out it was only minor, MINOR, Braxton-Hicks contractions. I think Dix laughed at me for an hour!"

Dixie laughs and shakes her head, "No, I did not! It was only half an hour!"

Everyone laughs as Jack continues, "Well, I thought they were horrible, and I just knew somehow or other I was gonna go into hard labor and this baby would be stuck in me! Everytime I felt a pain, we'd jump." He shakes his head, "But, the doctor would check me every week, feeling around to see how big the baby was, and also do a sonogram so see if she was ready to be born. The C-section was sceduled for....uh, a certain day, and the night before I swear my water broke." He looks at Dixie, "Do you want me to tell him this part?"

Dixie laughs, "Well, yeah, you better."

Johnny's eyes get huge, "What? What happened?"

Jack laughs, "Well, it's not really THAT bad, but my water did break, and it came out through my cock, and scared me to death. Dixie managed to calm me down, and tell me that it was fine. They gave me an epidural, and then I felt great, because I was starting to feel severe labor pains."

Johnny interrupts, "How far apart were your contractions when they gave you the epidural?"

Jack and John look at each other and laugh. Jack turns a little red, and says, "Uh, they were 10 minutes apart!" They all laugh, and he finishes telling what happened, "John got to be by my side as they did the C-section, and we had chosen not to know the sex of our child. So, we were both delighted to learn we had a beautiful baby girl."

Roy and Johnny smile at the baby, who is beginning to wake up, and Johnny asks Jack, "Can I ask you something that I don't know if you can answer?"

Jack nods, "Yeah, you can ask. I don't know if I can answer it or not."

Johnny nods his understanding, "Well, I was just wondering if you got to nurse her, and what that was like."

Jack glances at Dixie, who nods that it's OK to answer, "Yes, I got to nurse her while we were at the clinic. I could have continued after we left, but I chose not to. But, she got that first bit of milk. As far as what it was like." He rolls his eyes, "OH MAN! It was unbelievable!" He turns a little red, and asks Johnny, "I know this is a personal question, but do you like to have your tits sucked?"

Dixie and Mrs. Shifter just shake their heads. Johnny smiles, and nods, giving Roy a wink. Jack goes on, "Sorry if I embarrassed you guys, but, Johnny, nurse if you can, because that is just the ultimate arousal! I know that sounds really bad to say when you've just given birth, but, HEY! It's true! I had to try really hard to control myself while I was nursing her. That's another reason I decided not to continue nursing. The feelings were just too intense. But, it was worth it."

Roy remembers the early days after his kids were born, "Let me ask you a question. Does she sleep good at night?"

Jack nods, "Oh yeah! She has slept great anytime, anyplace. She is a very good baby. What's hard is recovering from the C-section."

Johnny asks a question he has wondered about, "When they impregnated you, did that hurt much?"

Jack shakes his head, "No, not too much. They did a laprotomy, implanted it in a fold in my abdomen, and then closed me up. I knew I was pregnant about 2 weeks later, and I started showing about 6 weeks after that. Man, you are so skinny, you may show even sooner! Are you excited about having a baby?"

Johnny nods, and Roy kisses him on the forehead, hugging him gently. Roy looks at John, "John? Are you gonna try this? They keep asking me if I am, and I don't think I am going to."

John laughs, "Well, I don't know if I am supposed to say this, but I have already started taking the hormone shots."

They congratulate him, and Dixie lets both Roy and Johnny hold the baby for a few minutes. After talking to them for several more minutes, they all say goodbye and leave.

When Roy, Johnny, Kel, and Dix get to their cars, Kel speaks to Johnny, "Johnny, I spoke with Dr. Shifter, and provided that the blood tests come out OK, you can start taking the hormone shots the first of the month, which is about 2 weeks from tomorrow."

Johnny's eyes light up, "Really? Where do we go to get them?"

Kel smiles, "Come see me the morning after your shift on the 31st, and I will explain everything. Meanwhile, I want you to start eating a little bit more so you can get some meat on those bones. I think the hormone shots may cause you to gain a little weight, too. Well, we are headed back to the hospital. I guess we'll see you guys later?"

Roy and Johnny nod, tell them goodbye, then get in their own car, and leave. Once they get on the highway, Roy reaches over and takes Johnny's hand.

"What do you think about all this?"

Johnny smiles, "I am excited, but a little nervous, too. Roy, if it's OK with you, I want to nurse our baby."

Roy looks at him with a little bit of shock, and raises his eyebrows, "AFTER you get out of the hospital?"

Johnny nods, "Yeah, if I can. I am not gonna do it out in public. Only behind closed doors. I have always heard about how good nursing is for babies, and I want to do it."

Roy grins, "Even if you get a hard-on every time you nurse?"

Johnny just slaps at Roy playfully, "Hush! Not around the children, Dear!"

Roy laughs, "You are crazy! And I love you!" He kisses Johnny's hand, and they flirt with, and kiss each other off and on on the way home. By the time they get home, they are both hot and horny. They hurry in the house, throwing off their clothes as they race upstairs, and spend several hours "practicing" for a baby!

TWO WEEKS LATER
(November 1980)

On the morning of November 1, 1980, Roy and Johnny go to the hospital to meet with Dr. Brackett, and find out about the hormone shots. When they arrive at the hospital, they go to his office.

"Hi, guys! Come on in!"

Dr. Brackett hands them both a cup of coffee, and Dixie joins them shortly. Dr. Brackett grins at Johnny, "Well, how are you feeling, Johnny?"

Johnny takes a deep breath, "A little nervous. Excited. Scared."

Dr. Brackett nods his understanding, "OK, when you leave, Dix will give you enough vials of the hormone for this month. Now, Johnny, Roy is gonna inject these shots in your hip, and they may sting a little bit."

Dixie raises her eyebrows slightly when she hears him say that, because she knows those shots hurt pretty bad. She catches Roy's eye, and he winks with a slight grin. He knows Dr. Brackett is making it easier for Johnny to get the first shot without too much complaining. It's just the other 29 shots that are gonna be a fight.

Dr. Brackett ignores Dixie's look, continuing his explanation to Johnny, "Johnny, you may not notice too many changes right away. By the end of the month you may notice that your nipples are a little tender, as well as a little larger. Now, I'm not talking huge melons on your chest! More like, a very small mound, maybe as large as a half-dollar. Now, by the time you give birth, your nipples will be larger and darker, but your actual breasts won't get that large. Toward the end of your pregnancy you may want to wear a very loose-fitting T-shirt or something like a smock that won't rub you. But, that's for later. By the end of this month, you may notice tenderness in various parts of your body, including your penis. Jack said his got very sensitive the last few days he was taking the shots, and then especially so a few weeks before the baby was born. Also, you may grow a little more hair, or you may lose some hair depending on how your body reacts to the hormones."

Johnny groans, "Oh great, that's all I need. To lose MORE hair. I don't have much to start with! Now, I wouldn't mind growing some hair on my chest!"

Dr. Brackett laughs, "Well, it's hard to say what will happen. Some lose, some don't. Also, you may get very moody, and there is a possibility that you may cry easily. On the other end of the scale, you could feel like you need to sleep alot, and if that happens, then we may need to adjust the dosage a little bit. Also, be sure and take plenty of showers, expecially after you've had intercourse. The chance for infections is a little bit higher. Now, Dix is gonna give you the first shot, and then Roy can give you the rest. So, go on in Room 1. She's gonna take some blood, too, before she gives you a shot, and just to be on the safe side, go ahead and give a urine sample."

Roy and Johnny nod and stand up, and follow Dixie out the door. They go in room 1. Dixie hands Johnny the specimen cup, and he goes in the bathroom. Dix and Roy talk quickly while he's out of the room.

Dix grabs Roy's arm, "Roy, these shots hurt like hell, but I think Kel is just trying to make it easier for him to get the first one."

Roy nods, "I figured that. By the end of the month, I may be crying with him!"

Dixie hugs Roy, "You'll do fine. Anytime you need me to give him the shot, let me know.

Roy nods, then they separate when they hear Johnny flush, and come out of the bathroom. He sits down on the table, and Dix takes some blood. While she's getting it ready for the lab, she smiles at Johnny, "OK, Johnny, drop those pants, and bend over the table."

Johnny makes a face, but he unbuckles his pants, and leans over the table. Roy goes around to the other side, and holds his hands, "I love you."

Johnny smiles, "I know, and I hope so, cause I hate getting shots!"

Roy kisses him, "I know you do, Babe, and I'm sorry."

While Roy is talking softly to Johnny, he sees Dixie getting the shot ready. He wants to cringe when he sees the needle, but he doesn't want to scare Johnny. When Dixie moves Johnny shift out of the way, and pushes his pants down, he starts to turn and look, but Roy won't let him. "No, Babe. Keep your eyes on me. Just relax."

Roy holds him the best he can. Dixie pushes Johnny over a little more so his chest is laying on the table. "OK, Johnny. Take a deep breath and relax."

Johnny takes a deep breath, and tries to relax his hip when he feels Dix rub the alcohol on his hip. He clinches Roy's hand tighter, and waits for the shot. Just before she gives it to him, she asks him, "Johnny? This is your last chance. Are you sure you want to do this?"

Johnny nods, "Yes, Dix, I do. Just give me the damn shot so I can get it over with."

Dixie grins, "OK." And, carefully, yet gently, she slowly injects the hormone into Johnny's hip, the first shot of many to come.

Johnny flinches when he first feels the needle pierce his skin, but tries very hard not to cry out, thinking it's gonna be quick, and over within a couple of seconds.

But, the medicine takes about 30 seconds to be injected, and by the time Dixie removes the needle, Johnny is crying because the hormone burns and stings as it travels through his body. Roy holds him close as he cries softly, wondering how in the world they are gonna get through a month of this.

When Dixie withdraws the needle, she presses a bandaid on Johnny's hip, and pats his back. She leaves the room so Johnny can get his composure back.

After a few minutes, Johnny raises up, and pulls up his pants. Roy holds him close, "Are you OK, Sweetheart?"

Johnny shakes his head, "It hurts so bad, Roy."

"I know it does, Baby. I'm sorry. Can you make it out to the car?"

Johnny nods, wiping tears from his eyes, and they leave the room. Dixie meets them, and hands Roy a box of the injections. She hugs Johnny, "Are you OK?"

Johnny just shakes his head, and walks out to the car with Roy. He gently sits on the seat, and cries off and on all the way home. Roy holds his hand, trying to offer him a little bit of comfort.

When they get home, Roy walks into the kitchen to start the coffee. Johnny follows him in there, and leans against the counter watching Roy make the coffee. Roy turns to him, cupping his chin, "Are you gonna be able to go through with this, Sweetheart?"

Johnny looks up at Roy with tears streaming down his face, and slightly shakes his head, "I don't know, Roy. I just don't know. I don't know if I can go through a month of these shots. But, is it too late to back out now?"

Roy pulls Johnny close to him, hugging him as Johnny cries for a few more minutes. When Johnny pulls back a few minutes later, Roy smiles, "Are you crying because you don't want to get any more shots in your ass, or because you just realized what you got yourself into?"

Johnny kinda laughs as he wipes his eyes, "I don't know. Maybe both? I just didn't realize that shot was gonna hurt that bad." He takes a big breath, letting it out slowly, "But, if those other guys can endure a month, or more, of those shots, plus go through a 9 month pregnancy, with all that that entails, I guess I will try to endure those shots. Jack made it though OK, and John seems to be surviving, so I guess I will, too. I sure don't want to seem like a wimp."

Roy hands Johnny a cup of coffee, then starts fixing some toast and eggs, "Baby, I don't think anyone would think you were a wimp. I saw that needle. I know how much she injected. But, she also told me the first shot is the worst. Maybe the rest of them won't hurt so bad."

Johnny looks up from setting the table, "Yeah, right."

"Well, would you rather Dixie give you a shot every day? That way I could hold you in my arms and comfort you each time." Roy takes the toast out of the toaster, handing Johnny a plate with toast and scrambled eggs, then fixes himself a couple of fried eggs.

Johnny shrugs as he sits down at the table, "I don't know, Babe. I kinda want you to give them to me, because otherwise we are gonna have to go by the hospital every morning, or else go by her apartment when she is off."

Roy finishes up the eggs, grabs the toast, and sits down beside Johnny. He realizes Johnny forgot to get any milk or OJ. "Johnny? Do you want milk or OJ?"

Johnny looks and realizes he forgot to get any, "OH! Both, I guess. You want me to get it?"

Roy shakes his head as he stands up to go get the beverages, "No, I'll get it. You know, Babe," Roy begins as he goes to the fridge and pours the drinks, "Dixie could give you the shots on the days we could get to the hospital, then I could give it to you the days we are off. You want to try that?"

Johnny nods, and starts to talk around a mouth full of food, until Roy glares at him with a raised eyebrow. If nothing else during the years the two of them have been together, Roy finally drilled it into Johnny's head not to talk with his mouth full of food. Johnny's mouth was almost slapped a couple of times, but he finally got the message. He swallows, then speaks after he drinks some milk.

"That sounds good to me. I guess you can give it to me in the mornings before we go to work, then Dix can give it to me the next morning."

Roy nods, reaching out to take Johnny's hand, "I love you, Babe, and I hate that you have to go through this at all." He kisses the hand of his lover, but holds up his hand before Johnny can take it further, "Before we get carried away here, we can't get carried away here!" Grinning at Johnny's look of dismay, he continues, "We have got to do the laundry, change sheets, clean up this house, and maybe a little yard work later."

Johnny frowns, "Why? Are we having company?"

Roy rolls his eyes as he begins clearing the table, "No, Dear, we are not having company. We don't need to have a reason to clean and do laundry. This house is a wreck." He starts running the water in the sink, then turns to look at Johnny, "Tell you what, Hon. I will do the kitchen and the bathroom and do the laundry, if you will strip the beds, change the sheets, bring all the towels and laundry down, then help me out by vacuumming the livingroom, then gather up the trash and take it out." He kisses Johnny when he brings his dishes over, "Will you do that for me? Then we can play later!" Roy adds with a grin.

Johnny nods, "OK, OK. I will!" He wraps his arms around Roy's waist, "You are too good to me sometimes, and I love you very much!"

Roy laughs, "Oh heavens! The hormones are working already! You're getting mushy!" He gives him a quick kiss, "And I love it!"

Johnny goes upstairs, strips the sheets, puts some fresh ones on, then grabs their dirty laundry and towels and wraps it all up in the dirty sheets. He rounds up the trash, putting it all in one can, then carries both the laundry and the trash downstairs. He deposits the laundry in the utility room, gathers up the rest of the trash, and takes it all out to the dumpster.

While Johnny is doing this, Roy does the dishes and cleans the kitchen, then starts the washing. While Johnny is outdoors, cleaning up the yard, Roy cleans their bathroom, then checks around upstairs to make sure no trash or laundry was forgotten.

When Roy comes back down to the utility room with a few forgotten articles of clothing, the phone rings just as he enters the kitchen. He throws the clothes on the floor in the utility room, and grabs the kitchen phone.

"Hello?"

"Roy? This is Hank? Did Johnny get his first shot?"

Roy smiles, "Yeah, he did, and it hurt like hell. He had a few moments of indecision about whether he wanted to really continue with this, but he decided if those other guys could do this, so could he."

Hank whistles, "WOW! And I know how much he hates shots. He must REALLY want to do this. And, that brings me around to why I am calling. Mike and I have talked to Dr. Brackett and Dr. Shifter, and we will go through the tests and the physicals and everything after the first of the year, probably around March."

Roy smiles, "Hey, that's great! Are both of you gonna try to get pregnant?"

Hank laughs, "No, not quite. I had a vasectomy after my last child was born. Dr. Brackett did a sperm count test, and I am still infertile. Mike is gonna try and see if he can get pregnant."

"Well, that's great! But, why do you have to wait till March?"

"Because they want to concentrate on Johnny right now. They said March, or when Johnny is in about his fourth month. He'll be out of the danger time, then."

Roy sighs, "I know. Those first three months will be the worst. Listen, I need to go. I am in the middle of doing the laundry."

Hank laughs, "Yeah, I know how that goes. I am fixing to have to do it, too. But, I also called to see if you two want to come over for dinner tonight. I am gonna made some chowder."

Roy's mouth waters at the thought of the wonderful chowder, "Oh, yeah! I think we can. Johnny is outside doing yardwork, but if he doesn't want to, I'll let you know."

"OK, why don't you guys come over about 5 then. And, you are welcome to stay the night if you want to. Bring a case of beer, if you want. Oh, and Marco and Chet are coming, too. I asked them not to bring a date because we have something we want to tell them."

"Oh, Hank. Do you think we should tell them?"

"We are gonna have to sometime."

Roy runs his hand through his thinning hair, "Yeah, that's true. OK. We'll be there about five, with beer in hand. See ya then."

"OK, bye, Roy."

Roy hangs up, puts the rest of the clothes in the washer, puts the wet ones in the dryer, then fills two glasses of iced tea, and walks outside to where Johnny is cleaning out the barn.

Johnny looks up when he hears Roy open the barn door, smiling when he see the cold drinks in his hand. He stops what he is doing, and sits down on a bale of hay. Roy hands him the tea, and sits down beside him.

"Ohhhh, this tastes wonderful! Thank you!"

Roy leans over to kiss him, "I figured you could use something cold. Hank just called, Babe. Mike is gonna go through the tests and stuff in March. Also, Hank is making chowder tonight, and invited all the guys over. Marco and Chet are gonna be there, too. He feels like we need to go ahead and tell them."

Johnny rolls his eyes, "Well, OK."

"He also asked us to bring a case of beer, and we are welcome to spend the night if we want to. Do you want to?"

Johnny nods, "Sure. That sounds fine to me. Then we can leave and go by the hospital, and Dixie can give me the shot before we come home. I don't think I better drink too much beer, though."

Roy nods in agreement, then stands up, "I agree, Babe. I am gonna go finish cleaning, and I'll vaccuum for you so you can finish up out here. Do you want anything for lunch, or just skip it so we can eat more tonight?"

Johnny laughs, "Skip it! I want as much chowder as I can get!"

Roy goes back in the house to finish cleaning. He gets done about noon just as a very sweaty Johnny comes in. He hands him a tall glass of ice water, "Come on, and lets go take a shower, then we can go to bed!"

Johnny grins as he sets the glass in the sink, "Mmmm, best offer I have had all day!"

They hurry upstairs, and Johnny strips as he goes, although he doesn't have much to take off since he was only wearing a pair of cut-offs.

They get in the shower, kissing and touching as they run soapy hands over each other. Roy gives Johnny a very erotic shampoo, rubbing against him every chance he gets. Then he takes a soapy washcloth and carefully washes every inch of his lover. He kisses the bruise on his bottom, causing Johnny to jump a little bit.

Johnny groans as he feels Roy run the soapy cloth over his whole body, and can barely stand when Roy attaches his soft lips to his very erect cock. Johnny leans against the wall as Roy sucks him dry, with Johnny screams of his lover's name echoing off the tiled walls.

When Roy has sucked Johnny dry, swallowing all he can take, he stands up, embracing his lover in a deep, passionate kiss, allowing him to taste himself in the kiss. Johnny can only groan at first, but then he takes a wet, soapy rag and washes Roy in the same way he washed him. He gives him an erotic shampoo, then after rinsing the hair on his head, takes the soap, washes the hair on his chest, then the course, curly blonde hair at his crotch. Roy about falls over, but holds on to the handhold on the shower wall as Johnny gives him a dynamic blow job.

After Roy explodes down his lover's talented throat, they share another passionate kiss, rinse off, and get out, carefully drying each other off.

They quickly get in bed. Roy holds Johnny in his arms, and they kiss long and slow, letting their tongues battle each other. Roy runs his hands up and down Johnny's body, then moves them down to play with his hole. Johnny groans and whimpers a little when he feels Roy's fingers preparing him. He rolls on his back, and raises his legs up and apart. Roy smiles and moves slowly down his body, kissing as he goes.

Johnny feels himself becoming hard again as Roy heads for where he wants him to be. He squeals when he feels Roy's hot tongue rimming him and his fingers stroking in and out of his ass. Before long, he is so hot, and about to explode, he can only whimper and moan until he feels Roy move up to get in position to make love to his lover.

Roy makes slow, passionate love to this man he loves with all his heart and soul. As he thrusts in and out of his lover's ass, he can't help but smile at the thought that they are pretending to be conceiving a baby. Before long, they both scream out as they explode, with Johnny's exploding all over his chest.

They hold each other until they can breathe again, then Johnny kisses Roy tenderly, "Roy?"

"Hmmm?" A sleepy Roy answers.

Johnny grins, "Do you think we made a baby that time?"

Roy laughs, "Well, you never know!" He hugs him, "I love you so much!"

Johnny cuddles up against him, "I love you, too, Babe!"

They fall asleep holding each other close in their arms.

A few hours later they get up, shower, get dressed, and leave for Hank and Mike's. Roy stops at a convenience store so Johnny can grab a case of beer and a six-pack of a soft drink. He is laughing when he gets back in the car.

Roy backs out, and heads for Hank's, "What's so funny, Babe?"

Johnny shakes his head, "I got carded! I guess they thought because I was buying beer and soda that I was underage. I told the guy, 'I am way over 21 and you are carding me????' He just shrugged, and looked at my license, and said thank you."

They laugh and get to Hank and Mike's a few minutes later. It is 4:50, and only Hank and Mike's cars are there.

Hank opens the door and they all greet each other, as Hank explains, "Marco and Chet will be here about 6:00. I wanted us to have time to talk before they got here."

They all go in the livingroom, and sit down. Mike sits on the arm of the chair Hank is sitting in, while Roy and Johnny sit together on the couch. Hank smiles at Johnny, "So? You started taking the shots?"

Johnny nods but doesn't say anything until Mike speaks, "Johnny, I already know they hurt, so don't keep quiet on my account."

Johnny laughs, "OK, and you are right. They hurt like hell! What are you guys gonna tell Chet and Marco?"

Hank takes Mike's hand in his, "Well, I just thought we'd tell them that we are trying out an experiemental procedure, and you and Mike are gonna try to have a baby."

Johnny shakes his head, "Then, after Chet quits laughing, he'll start teasing. Hank, what's to keep him from going out and telling the press and everyone he knows about this."

Hank shrugs, "I guess I could threaten him with the loss of his job if he tells anyone. Would you rather not tell him, and then have him find out later?"

Johnny laughs, "I don't know Hank. I really don't know. Let's just wait and play it by ear. I really don't think Marco is gonna have any problem with it, though. Just Chet."

Hank nods in agreement, "OK, we'll just wait and see what happens. I need to go check the chowder." He stands up, "Come on, Babe!"

He pulls Mike in the kitchen with him, and Johnny laughs when they hear them giggling. He looks at Roy, "I don't think they are coming back anytime soon, do you?" He begins to rub his hand up and down Roy's thigh.

Roy shakes his head, "No, I don't think so either. How about you and I just neck a little bit!"

Johnny grins as he wiggles his eyebrows, "Ooo, that sounds good!"

They make out on the couch for about 30 minutes, until Hank and Mike return, with Hank clearing his throat to let them know they are back. They talk for a little while, joking a little about having a baby--mostly guy talk.

About 6:00 the doorbell rings, and Mike answers the door. Marco and Chet come in, and greet everyone. Hank ushers them all into the diningroom, where they enjoy a fantastic meal.

After they eat, they all go in the den to talk. Hank winks at Johnny, then looks at Marco and Chet, "Uh, guys, we invited you over here for several reasons. We have some very interesting news to tell you, but I need to tell you this. Chet, and Marco, what we are about to tell you is not to leave this house. Could I please get you word as gentlemen and friends that you will not reveal this to anyone?" Both of them nod, and Hank nods to Johnny.

"Uh, guys, we have some very interesting news to tell you, and because of this, Roy and I may be gone for awhile." He takes a deep breath and starts telling both of them the story about what has happened, and what will happen.

Roy, Hank, and Mike sit there and watch the look on Marco and Chet's faces go from disbelief, to shock, to amazement. When Johnny finishes, there is total silence in the room. Johnny nervously takes Roy's hand, not sure why no one is talking.

Marco shakes his head, "Well, that is the last thing I ever expected to hear the two of you say." He keeps shaking his head, "I didn't say much when you all fell in love, because I could tell how much you were in love, even before you could. While I don't agree with it, I have accepted it because I know the four of you don't act like 'sissies'. But, I'm sorry. I cannot agree with what you are doing. I won't say anything to anybody, but I think this is totally wrong."

Roy interrupts, "Marco? How is this that much different than a man and a woman going through an IVF procedure when neither one of them can have a baby. Johnny and I love each other very much, and he wants to have a baby. But, instead of adopting, he is gonna carry a baby."

Marco shakes his head again, "Roy, women were made to carry babies. Men aren't. This whole thing, including your relationship goes against everything I was ever taught and have ever believed in. I will continue to work with you guys, but I don't ever want to hear about the baby." He looks at Hank, "Hank, I am gonna take the Engineer's test as soon as I can so I can move on. This just saddens me that you would made a mockery of something as beautiful as the miracle of the birth of a child."

Johnny jumps up, "Marco! We are not making a mockery of this! We are still using a donor egg of a woman, and my sperm. What if I had a wife, and she was very ill, but had donated her eggs, and we wanted to continue our family name. She dies, and I want to still have a baby, so I carry it. The miracle of life still goes on! I don't know how this child is gonna grow inside of me. How does it grow inside a woman? The miracle of life is not in who carries the baby, but that a baby grows from such a small egg. Marco! We have seen a beautiful baby girl born to two men who were delighted that they could bring a child into the world. She is healthy and perfect in every way. Marco, this is not some wacko doctor with some wierd idea, trying to create a child from some wierd plan. An egg and sperm are joined together, just as they are in the normal way, and implanted, not in a uterus, but in the fold of my abdomen. I am sorry if you don't agree with this, Marco, but we are very happy, and looking forward to having at least one beautiful child!"

No one says a word as Johnny plops back down on the couch, and Roy wraps his arms around his lover, waiting to see if Marco says anything else.

After a few minutes, Marco looks up at Roy and Johnny with tears in his eyes, "I am sorry, guys. I didn't realize there was all that to it. I still find it hard to believe that a man has carried a child, and that you are gonna do it, but you are right. A child is a miracle, no matter where it grows. I'm still kinda shocked about the whole thing, but if you can do it, more power to you. I am gonna take the Engineer's test though."

Hank just nods and then everyone looks at Chet, who smiles, "Well, all I can say is that this is very interesting that you would tell us this, because I found out yesterday that my sister-in-law's brother's friend in Germany just had a baby. And it was two guys. I think it was his second child, and his partner has decided to have one also. I agree with Marco in that I think this is something only a woman should do, but Johnny had a good example. I am kinda excited for you to see if it really works for you. And I won't say anything to anyone either. When do you do this, Johnny?"

Johnny shakes his head, "I am not sure, Chet. I just started the shots today, and I have to have one every day for a month."

The guys talk for awhile, then Marco and Chet leave about 10 pm. Roy is pretty shocked that Chet was so accepting, and Marco was so against it. Hank, Mike, Roy, and Johnny stay up talking and drinking till midnight, then Roy and Johnny crash on the couch. They don't do much except kiss and make out, but they laugh when they hear Mike and Hank going at it several times during the night.

The next morning, Roy and Johnny take a shower about 7 am, get dressed, and leave. Hank got up as they were leaving, and they just tell him they'll see him tomorrow. Roy drives to the hospital, and Johnny is pretty quiet on the way.

"Are you OK, Babe?"

Johnny nods, "Yeah, I guess. Just not looking forward to getting this shot."

Roy squeezes his hand, "I know you aren't, but I will be right there with you."

They get to the hospital, and Dixie is a little surprised to see them, until Roy explains their plan. Dixie nods, and directs them to room 5.

They go in room 5, and they just stand aroudn and wait. About ten minutes later, Dixie comes in with the shot in her hand, "OK, Johnny, let's get this over with."

Johnny grimaces a little when he sees the needle, and quietly unfastens his pants. Roy holds him in his arms, and moves his shirt out of the way, and pushes his pants and underwear down a little bit. Johnny flinches when he feels the coolness of the alcohol on the alcohol pad being wiped against his skin. When Roy sees Dixie about ready to inject the hormone into Johnny's right hip, Roy takes his mouth in a deep, passionate kiss.

Johnny is shocked when Roy plants a big kiss on him---so much so that he doesn't feel the shot at first. But, then after about 15 seconds, he can feel the burning and stinging as it goes through his veins, and he squeezes his eyes shut, trying hard not to cry out, but right at the end, he does, just as Dixie removes the needle from his behind, and Roy removes his lips from Johnny's. Johnny continues to hold onto Roy, not wanting to let go.

After several minutes, Johnny is able to compose himself, pull his pants back up, and they leave the hospital. He doesn't say much on the way home, just shifts painfully in the seat. Both sides of his bottom are sore, the right more than the left, and he just wants to go home and go to bed.

FOUR WEEKS LATER
(November 30, 1980)

The last four weeks have been a chore for Roy and Dixie to get Johnny to take the shots. Just about the time he was starting to get used to the shots, he began to feel tenderness in various parts of his body. He lost a little hair on his head and his crotch, but grew a little hair on his chest. Then the mood swings started, and he had to almost fight not to break out into tears on a couple of runs involving children. He was trying very hard to make it to the end of the month before he took a leave of absence. Today is Saturday, his last day of work was on Thursday. On Monday he will go to the hospital, minor surgery will be done to implant an embryo, then the wait starts to see if he becomes pregnant. It will take about two weeks for them to know for sure.

Roy gets up early, letting Johnny sleep, He had a very restless night because of the tenderness in his nipples, which had grown some, and the tenderness in his penis. He starts the coffee, then gets the shot ready. He is so happy that this is the last one he will have to take. Hopefully the IVF will take, and he won't have to go through another month of these shots.

Roy pours himself a cup of coffee, then sits down to read the paper. A few minutes later he hears Johnny get up and go in the bathroom, so he takes another cup of coffee, along with the hypodermic, upstairs. He walks in the bedroom just as Johnny walks out of the bathroom.

Johnny smiles when he sees his lover, "Hi, Babe!" He starts to hug him, then sees the needle, and starts whining, "Nooo, Roy! Please no more!" He starts backing up cause he's naked, and he hopes he can get away from Roy, but no such luck.

Roy just shakes his head, sets the coffee down, and snags Johnny's arm, "Ut uh uh, Babe. This is the last shot you are gonna have to get! Aren't you happy about that!"

Roy tries to be cheerful but he knows Johnny is so sick and tired of all these painful shots. His poor bottom is sore and tender all over, with light to dark bruises all over, including his thighs. Dix had given him a couple of shots in his thighs, which only caused him to scream out in pain.

Johnny sighs, knowing he is going to have to get this over with. He drinks a little coffee, then sets in on the bedside table, and plops down on the bed on his stomach. He immediately regrets that when his sensitive nipples and penis brush against the rough covers. "Ohhhh, I forgot! Oh man, Roy! Hurry and give me the shot!"

Roy gives him the injection as quickly and gently as he can, shaking his head sadly when Johnny starts crying from the pain. He disposes of the needle, and then lays down beside his lover, hugging him gently, "I love you so much, Baby. And that is the last shot, Sweetheart. On Monday you get your chance to see if you can get pregnant."

Johnny shakes his head, "I changed my mind! I don't want to do this!"

Roy just smiles. They go through this nearly every morning, and Roy just rubs his back, "You are OK. If you don't want to do it, then don't. Just let the hormones get out of your system,"

Johnny rolls over, "You are no help! You are supposed to tell me it'll be OK!"

Roy laughs, leaning over to kiss him, "I love you!"

They lay in bed and kiss for a few minutes, but they have to get up and get to cleaning because they are going to have some company for dinner. Since Roy didn't get to see his kids for Thanksgiving, Joanne is bringing them over for dinner. It will be Roy, Johnny, Hank, Mike, Joanne, Chris (12), and Jenny (10), and Joanne's husband of four years, Ed, with their two children, Eddie, 21 months, and Joni, 3 years. Everyone will arrive around 3 pm.

Johnny is not happy about all this, since he doesn't feel all that well, which was why Roy asked Hank and Mike to join them. Mainly so Johnny would have someone to talk to.

They get dressed and spend the morning cleaning and cooking. Hank and Mike are bringing a huge turkey, so all Roy and Johnny have to worry about are the vegetables, and drinks. Joanne is bringing dessert and a salad.

About 1:00 Johnny is setting the table, and Roy is checking on everything, when he hears Johnny crying. He goes in the diningroom, and Johnny is sitting at the table crying. Roy holds him in his arms for a few minutes till he can speak.

Finally, Roy asks, "Baby? What's wrong? Why are you crying?"

Johnny wipes his eyes, "I don't know. I think it's cause I hit my hip against the table, and it's sore! I don't know why I'm crying! It's those stupid hormones!"

Roy smiles, and kisses him, "I know, Sweetheart. I know. And, we won't have all those people over here anymore."

Johnny sniffs and looks at his lover with sad eyes, "Will you still love me when I am big, fat, and pregnant, and you won't want to go back to Joanne!"

Roy rolls his eyes, but he hugs Johnny to give him some reassurance, "Baby, I will love you no matter what you look like, because you are carrying our child. And, if you will recall, Joanne is married with two more children. I do not want Joanne. I want you. I love you very much! Now, go upstairs, wash your face, and dry your tears so eveyone won't wonder what in the world you are crying about."

Roy kisses him, watching this man he loves so much as he go upstairs. He looks out the window and sees Hank and Mike drive up. He helps them unload the food from their car, and they bring it all in the kitchen. Hank looks around when they enter, "Where is Johnny?"

Roy smiles, "He is upstairs washing his face. We had a case of hormonal tears again."

Hank smiles, "Do you want me to go check on him?"

Johnny comes in, "I'm OK. You don't need to check on me!"

They greet him, and then start setting the food out. A few minutes later, Johnny looks out the window and sees a station wagon drive up, "Babe, here they are."

Roy kisses him, "Check on the potatoes for me, would you?"

Roy opens the door, and Chris and Jen come running up to him, all of them enveloping each other in a big hug. Roy looks up and nearly drops his teeth when a very pregnant Joanne climbs out of the car. Chris whispers to Roy, "Dad, Mom's a grouch! She is three months pregnant with triplets!"

Jenny slaps Chris on the arm, "CHRIS! That is not right!" She hugs Roy again, "Daddy, Momma is NOT three months pregnant with triplets! She is 15 weeks pregnant with twins! Chris teases her all the time!" She sticks her tongue out at Chris, who starts to hit her, but Roy stops them, holding them apart with both hands.

"OK, you two. Quit your fighting, and go help your mother carry the food in. Where are the two little ones?"

Joanne walks up with her husband, Ed, in time to hear the question. She hands the food to the kids as they walk in and she answers the question, "They are staying with Ed's mother. I wasn't bringing four kids over here, especially when I don't agree with your relationship."

Roy shakes his head as he closes the front door, then ushers everyone into the diningroom. Chris and Jen are hugging Johnny, and Roy can tell just by the look on his face that he is trying hard not to cry out when they bump his chest. Hank and Mike greet Joanne, who introduces them to Ed.

Roy gets everyone's attention, "OK, it's probably gonna be about 30 minutes before everything is ready. Hank and Mike are gonna get everything ready, so lets the rest of us go in the livingroom and get out of their way."

They all go in the livingroom, and Joanne keeps looking at Johnny with a strange look. They sit down and talk for awhile, and Roy finds out about Joanne.

"So, Joanne," Roy asks, as Jen gets comfortable in his lap, "How far are you, and is it twins, triplets, or what?"

Joanne glares at Chris, who is sitting on the floor beside Roy's chair. Joanne and Ed are sitting on the couch, and Johnny is sitting on the chair by the fireplace. "I am NOT pregnant with triplets, even though you son tries to tell me there is one hiding and the doctor just hasn't found it yet." Chris laughs, and Roy bops him on the head, raising one eyebrow at him when Chris starts to complain. "Like Jen said, I am 15 weeks pregnant with twins. I am due towards the end of May, but the doctor will probably induce labor the first part of May if I don't go into labor earlier. I was gonna ask you, too, if the kids could come stay with you guys in June when school is out?"

Roy catches Johnny's eye. Johnny rolls his eyes in disbelief, but shrugs. Roy smiles at Joanne, "Uh, we have some things coming up in May and June that I will discuss with you later."

Joanne looks at Roy with a mixture of shock and surprise, "Are you telling me that something is gonna prevent you from having Chris and Jen stay with you? After all the times you have called and begged me to let them come over here." She glances over at Johnny, "Johnny? Is something wrong? You look like you have gained some weight and you don't feel well. I don't agree with this relationship you have with Roy, but I am trying to be openminded by letting the kids come and stay when school is out. What's going on?"

Roy sighs, "Joanne, I will discuss it with you later."

Ed shakes his head, "Uh, Roy, I know we've only known each other a short time, but in the time I have been with Joanne, if there is one thing I have learned, is don't keep any secrets from her. And don't say you'll tell her later, cause she'll keep on till you tell!"

Roy laughs, nodding his head, "I know, Ed, but this is something that needs to wait till later for us to tell you."

Joanne looks a little confused, "Why? Are you moving?"

Roy shrugs, "Don't know. Maybe."

Just then Hank comes in to let them know dinner is ready. Roy gets up, and as he passes by Hank, he mouths thank you. They all sit down to a bountiful meal. Roy asks Ed to give thanks, which he does, and they all dig into the scrumptious feast. No one speaks much while they are filling their plates and stomachs, and Hank and Mike can tell there is a little tension in the air. Hank decides to try to get Joanne talking about her other children.

"Joanne, Roy tells me you have two other children. How old are they?"

Joanne gives Hank a big smile, "Yes, we do, Hank. Thanks for asking. Joannie is 3, and Eddie is almost 2. They are staying with Ed's mother. They are quite a handful lately. But, they love staying with their Nana and Poppa, so they are spending the weekend with them."

Hank looks at Chris, "Chris, how old are you now? About 13?"

Chris shakes his head, "No, sir. I wish! I just turned 12. I am in 7th grade."

Roy nudges him, "Are you still playing football?"

Chris shakes his head, "No, Dad. Mom asked me not to this year. I am running track though. And I may play baseball in the spring."

Hank speaks to Jen, "And Miss Jenifer, how are things going for you?"

Jen gives Hank a shy smile. She has always enjoyed being around him cause he teases her a lot. She can't quite figure out why Mike is always around him, though. "I am fine. I am 10 now, Uncle Hank. I am in 5th grade!"

"And how is the 5th grade?"

She gives him a shy smile again, "Fine."

Roy tickles her, "How many boys are after you?"

Jen giggles, a sound Roy loves to hear, but doesn't get to hear enough, "None, Daddy. Me and my friends don't like those yucky boys! Chris is enough of a bother!"

Everyone laughs. While all the fun and laugher is going on, Joanne watches Johnny. She knows something is going on with him, but just can't quite figure out what. Part of the time he looks happy, looking at Roy with a look of love that Joanne can't believe two men would share. Then sometimes he looks as if he is about to cry. He also looks very puffy, like he is retaining a lot of water. 'Like I used to look when PMS hit' Joanne thinks to herself. She would love to get a few minutes to talk to Johnny, but doubts that will happen anytime soon.

When everyone finishes stuffing themselves, Roy and Johnny start to clear the table, but Hank and Mike run them off, saying they will clean up and do the dishes. Roy decides to take Chris and Jen out to the barn and have a talk with them, but first he wants to check on Johnny. He feels like Johnny has been way too quiet all day. He gets the chance when Joanne slips away to the bathroom. He motions for Johnny to go upstairs, telling the kids he will meet them out by the barn, and Ed takes them outside.

Roy follows Johnny upstairs, and into their bedroom, closing the door behind him. He takes Johnny in his arms, "Babe, are you OK? You have been very quiet all day?"

Johnny gives his lover a slight smile, "Yeah, I'm OK. Just kinda tired. While you talk to the kids, I am gonna take a nap."

Roy nods, "OK, good idea." He kisses him tenderly, "I love you."

Johnny smiles with tears in his eyes, "I love you, too."

Roy gives him another kiss, and leaves the room, closing the door behind him. He hurries downstairs, only to find Joanne sitting in the livingroom by the fireplace. She smiles when Roy enters the room, "Roy, what's going on with the two of you? Johnny doesn't look like he feels well, and he looks very bloated. What are you not telling me?"

Roy takes a deep breath, shaking his head slightly with his hands on his hips, "Joanne, I really can't get into it right now. I can probably tell you more in a few weeks."

Joanne laughs, "Roy! What are you not telling me? Come on! You can tell me!"

Roy shakes his head, "No, Joanne, I can't. Now, I have to get out to the kids. They are waiting for me out by the barn."

He leaves the room. As he passes through the kitchen, he whispers to Hank and Mike not to tell Joanne anything. He knows she is just sly enough to try to get information out of them. Roy hurries out to where Ed is standing by the barn doors with the kids. When he sees Roy, he tells the kids he is going in the house. As he passes by Roy, he stops him, "Roy, they have been asking a lot of questions about why you and Johnny live together. Especially Jen. Joanne knows you need to talk to them about your relationship. So, please explain to them what you can."

Roy nods, thanks him, and continues into the barn. He and the kids sit and talk about school and sports and stuff. After several minutes, Jen walks over and puts her arm around his neck, "Daddy, can I ask you something?"

Roy swallows hard, wondering what in the world she is gonna ask, "Sure, Honey. You can ask me anything you want."

Jen takes a deep breath, "Well, I don't want to be nosey, Daddy, but I was just wondering why you and Uncle Johnny live together."

Roy smiles, lifting Jen on his lap, but speaks to both kids, "Well, I had to live somewhere, so we live here and share expenses."

Chris glances at Jen, "Dad, I think what she is trying to say is why do you and Uncle Johnny look at each other with loveydovey eyes. You guys look at each other like Mom and Ed do."

Roy laughs a little, "Loveydovey eyes? I didn't realize we did that."

Jen hugs him, "Well, it's mostly Uncle Johnny when he looks at you, Daddy." She is real quiet for a minute, then she say with a little bit of a wavery voice, "Daddy, I heard Momma tell Ed that you two were in a sinful relationship. What does that mean?"

Roy closes his eyes for a minute, trying to decide what to say to her, to both of them, and he looks at both of them as he shares his heart with them, "Jen, Chris, Uncle Johnny and I are not in a sinful relationship. We are in a loving relationship. He is very special to me, and I love him very much."

Jen looks a little surprised, "Do you love him more than you did Momma?"

Roy doesn't say anything for a minute, trying to decide just how to say what he wants to say, "Jen, Momma and I loved each other more like friends love each other. Sure, we had two wonderful kids together but things just didn't work out for us. I love Johnny with all of my heart, soul, mind, and body. It's not real popular for two men to love each other. And some people do think it is a sin, or that we are living in sin. Not only is he my best friend, and partner, but he is also my lover and my soulmate."

Jen grins a little, "Are you two gonna get marrrrrieeeeedddd?"

Roy laughs, but he shakes his head, "No, honey. It's not possible for two men to marry each other. If we could, we would. But, we are committed to each other with the love we have in our hearts."

Roy glances at Chris, who is shaking his bowed head. Roy touches Chris on the shoulder, "Chris, what's wrong? Tell me, Son?"

Chris looks at Roy with tears in his eyes, "Dad, it's not right. Two men aren't supposed to live together. And I know you two sleep together."

Roy rubs his back, "Yes, Chris, we do. But, you know what? I can't help who I fall in love with, any more than Mom could help falling in love with Ed, or who you might fall in love with. Kids, let me ask you something. I know it has been several years since we all lived together, but what do you remember about the time before we divorced?"

Chris shrugs, "You and Mom were always fighting and arguing. When you would go to work, Mom would be crying. Nobody was very happy."

Jen adds her memories, "Momma would be crying when she took us to school or in the middle of the night. She never looked very happy."

Roy nods, "Right. What is your house like now?"

Chris groans, "Too many kids!"

Roy laughs, "Well, besides that?"

Jen smiles, "Well, Momma and Ed are always kissing and laughing. Sometimes he even talks to her tummy!" Jen giggles at that memory.

Roy hugs her, "And you don't see her crying anymore, do you?"

Jen and Chris shake their heads. Roy continues, "Well, that's how it is in our house. We are always laughing and having fun and kissing and being silly because we love each other. You guys, it took me a long time to realize I had fallen in love with Johnny. But we are both very happy. I love him with my whole heart."

Chris doesn't say anything for a few minutes, "Dad, don't other people make fun of your relationship and call you names?"

Jen's eyes get big, "Daddy, some people say bad words about two men kissing."

Roy looks at her with a look of surprise, "When did you see two men kissing?"

Jen smiles, "It was on TV. Momma turned the channel and Ed called them an ugly name till Momma gave him a dirty look."

Roy sighs, "Kids, there are a lot of bad names people give two people of the same sex who love each other. And, yes Chris, sometimes people are rude and call me and Johnny ugly names, but we ignore them. It's not gonna change the way we love each other. It's not gonna change who we are. Those are just rude people. Our friends support us, and we have a lot of fun together just hanging out."

Chris nods, "What is the right word for what you are?"

Roy kinda laughs, "Well, the right word would be men, but I know what you are asking. Johnny and I are two men who love each other in a homosexual relationship. Another word for it is a gay relationship."

Jen shakes her head, "But those are not nice words, Daddy."

Roy hugs her, "Sometimes the way they are said is not in a nice tone of voice, but that is what it is called. Let me tell you