Chapter 2: The 1/3 Rule
As dawn broke, the first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting golden hues across the room. Bermuda stirred beneath the covers, a slight smile playing on her lips as she recalled the intimate conversation with her son. Despite the tension and unspoken truths, there was still hope for Michael.
Carefully extricating herself from the sheets, Bermuda reached for her robe, which she slipped on without bothering with a bra. Steeling herself for the conversation, she stepped out into the hallway. Her bare feet padded along the cold wooden floorboards until she reached Michael's door. Bracing herself, she knocked lightly. When she heard no reply, she leaned in and pressed her ear against the door.
"Doc, you have to give me some good news." came Michael's muffled voice from within. Concerned, Bermuda decided to crack the door to hear the conversation better.
She eavesdropped on Michael's discussion with his doctor, straining to discern every word as her body quivered with the uncontrollable need to protect her son.
"Are there any other methods?" Michael asked, his voice wavering with apprehension.
The doctor sighed, understanding Michael's desperation. "Unfortunately, traditional treatments haven't worked for many patients, but there's a cutting-edge procedure that's showing promising results."
Michael's interest piqued. "So, this cutting-edge procedure, does it involve drugs or surgery?"
The doctor shook his head. "Not quite. Think of it as a refined version of physical therapy. It employs a series of exercises tailored specifically to your condition."
Michael exhaled, relieved. "That sounds much better than invasive procedures or medications."
The doctor agreed from over the phone speaker. "These targeted exercises help train your body to overcome the underlying issues causing your Erectile Dysfunction."
"Erection Dysfunction?" Michael yelled, almost chuckling with rage, "I'm not limp doc. I'm hard every minute of every day!" Michael raged, grabbing his massive member.
"Boohoo?" The Doctor retorted.
Michael winced at the sharpness of the doctor's tone. He hesitated before asking, "What do these exercises entail? How do I perform them?"
The doctor explained the process step by step, assuring Michael that it would be simple enough to carry out in the privacy of his own home. "Each exercise takes only a few minutes, so don't worry about it becoming an inconvenience," he added. "And hey, Michael, I apologize for my earlier sarcasm, but permanent erection, arousal is a form of ED. Just not a common one or one that would normally interfere with a young man like yourself."
"Take it from an old Doctor who used to be a young man," The doctor continued, his voice lowering. "Sexy, busty women would love a man who was permanently aroused, erected."
Michael blushed, feeling his face grow hotter. "I-I guess," he replied hesitantly.
The doctor assured him that he was simply helping Michael explore potential solutions. "Just remember, Michael, there's nothing wrong with enjoying your body and its responses."
Reluctantly, Michael agreed to try the exercises. However, despite the doctor's reassurances, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease. Was this really the best course of action? Could it actually make things worse? Michael pondered, realizing he was still holding his large, engorged member, then his nostrils took in the familiar smell of lavender, his favorite scent. It reminded him of home, his mother, and all the comfort he found in her embrace. His mother... God, what would she think if she knew he was dealing with something like this?
He glanced around the room, and saw the door cracked, his mother peering through.
The sunlit room made it impossible for him to hide his arousal from her. Embarrassment washed over him as he realized his mother had caught him mid-conversation with the doctor. Bermuda stood there, taking in the sight of her son's swollen member, unable to tear her eyes away. The warmth in her gaze softened as she observed Michael's discomfort. She offered him a sympathetic smile, silently acknowledging the awkward situation they both found themselves in.
"Look, I know we've been through a lot lately, but I just want you to know that you can talk to me about anything," Bermuda said, trying to convey the depth of her love and concern for her son.
Michael's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Mom, I appreciate your concern, but it's nothing serious. It's just… the doctor mentioned some new treatment." He paused, trying to find the right words. "It's kinda… weird," he admitted, finally. "But don't worry, mom. I'll figure it out."
Bermuda nodded understandingly, knowing how important it was for Michael to feel in control of his life. "If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here for you," she promised, giving him a supportive pat on the shoulder.
Appreciating the physical connection, he replied. "And if you ever need someone to talk to, about your career, I'm her for you too." Michael offered back, appreciative of the support from his mother. Michael felt safe and comfortable discussing even the most private matters with his mother and hoped she would reciprocate.
In Bermuda's mind however, the fact Michael mentioned her career specifically was a sign of his growing awareness of the world he'd been shielded from. In his eyes, she wasn't just a parent anymore, but a woman with a unique professional life. This revelation filled her heart with joy, knowing that her son was ready to understand her better. But deep down, she also worried about how exposed Michael would become when he eventually learns more about her work.
"Speaking of my career," Bermuda began, wanting to test the waters gently. "You know, it's not all as bad as it seems." She tried to convince herself as well, hoping that Michael wouldn't see her line of work as something sinister.
"I wouldn't know," Michael responded calmly. "You never actually tell me anything about it"
Bermuda gave him a small smile, attempting to deflect the comment. "You know how it is, kiddo, sometimes parents just need to maintain a little mystery."
Michael rolled his eyes, unconvinced. "Yeah, sure, Mom. That's why you always come home late smelling like perfume." He retorted, knowing full well his mother's secret life.
Bermuda face drained, "I have to go to work now," she lied, brushing past Michael towards the exit. She needed time to think about what her son just discovered, her heart aching for him.
Michael watched her leave, wondering if he had crossed a line. As he thought about the possible implications of his mother's career, his mind raced with questions and concerns. Was she really involved in such a profession? And how could she keep it hidden from him for so long? These thoughts fueled his curiosity and, ultimately, his determination to learn more about her world.
Unsure whether to confront his mother directly or let things play out naturally, Michael found himself at a crossroads. He got dressed and went outside to clear his head.
The fresh air helped him think more clearly, allowing him to organize his thoughts. He contemplated approaching his mother about her job, but then he remembered their earlier conversation - her insistence on maintaining a sense of mystery.
As he wandered deeper into the woods, Michael reflected on the various encounters he'd had with his mother over the years. She always managed to effortlessly maintain a balance between being his mother and the professional woman he knew her to be. Yet, now that the veil had been lifted, how would he navigate this newfound knowledge?
There was a snap, the sound of branches breaking underfoot. Michael looked up, seeing Will approaching him, his usual stoic demeanor replaced by an unexpected warmth.
Will silently nodded to Michael, who returned the gesture.