It had been more than a month since I had witnessed my son, Rory, making love to his college roommate, Greg, and several weeks since I had spoken with Greg about his first sexual experiences with Rory. I knew that Greg ached to tell me more about their lovemaking, but it frightened me. After all, I was Rory's mother and should not know the details of his sex life. But, as a woman, I could not resist the strong, erotic imagery of two young, good-looking men making raw, passionate love. I tried to put the entire situation out of my mind.
Of course, my best efforts failed miserably when my husband, Tom, announced one night that he had booked us a hotel room near campus, so that we could support Rory, who was anchoring the university's swim team in an important swim meet. This was not just any swim meet. The swim coach had called Tom to let him know that key members of the U.S. Swimming Association would be at the meet to watch Rory, an early favorite to make the U.S. Olympic team.
We arrived early Friday afternoon before the Saturday swim meet. Rory and Greg met us at the hotel. It was so good to see them. Rory looked terrific, his shoulders looked even broader, and he had the fire in his eyes that burned so brightly during swim competition. He told Tom that he and his coach wanted to meet with him that afternoon to discuss strategy. After all, Tom was a former Olympian himself, losing his opportunity to earn his own medal in swimming due to the American boycott of the 1980 Moscow games.
Rory was apologetic. "Mom, why don't you and Greg go for coffee? There is this great local coffeehouse in Collegetown."
Greg responded immediately, "I would love to show you Collegetown and introduce you to the best hazelnut latte in the world."
Tom also chimed in. "Kate, go. After all, you need to get us a couple of college sweatshirts. We cannot be a legitimate cheering section without looking the part."
I laughed nervously. "Well, it's unanimous. Greg, will you be my date for the afternoon?"
He smiled and we grabbed our winter coats and began our walk through campus. The campus was absolutely gorgeous in the winter. The gothic architecture took on a completely different feel against the bright white winter snow. It was idyllic.
Greg was the perfect tour guide. As we crossed campus, he pointed out all of the historic sites. I never knew how much history had occurred at this university. He told me interest facts and stories and kept me laughing with his gentle wit.
We stopped in the university shop and bought sweatshirts, T-shirts, and hats. I felt like a ridiculous tourist. I laughed to Greg, "I must look like the oldest, most pathetic coed."
Greg laughed. "No, Kate. Just one of the prettiest." I blushed.
We walked and chatted for hours. I learned so much about Greg, his family, his aspirations, and, of course, his deep love for Rory. I enjoyed learning that in Greg, Rory had a true, loving partner with whom he could share his dreams, fears, and passions.
The winter air turned colder as the sky grew darker. I felt the chill in my toes and could feel my nose getting red. I looked at Greg. "What about that hazelnut latte you promised me?"
