Love Boat

Alex and Drayvos emerged from yet another men's clothing boutique, their arms laden with bags filled with their latest acquisitions. Both men exuded an air of GQ perfection, clad in the most modern of fashions.

Drayvos, sporting sleek black slacks that hugged his every curve, a sky-blue cotton shirt that left little to the imagination, and designer sunglasses that added an extra layer of suave masculinity, couldn't help but comment, "This attire may not be as comfortable as a toga, but it's still quite comfortable. I suppose the modern era has its drawbacks compared to the simplicity of togas."

Alex could only sigh in admiration, his gaze lingering lustfully on the impeccably dressed man by his side. It was a sight to behold, and he couldn't help but feel a surge of pride knowing that Drayvos was all his. After composing himself, Alex responded, "Well, at least now you have something to wear for the rest of the..."

Suddenly, realization dawned on Alex as he glanced at the sinking sun on the horizon. "Oh, crap! The boat!"

Drayvos, arms laden with shopping bags, looked at Alex quizzically. "What about the boat?"

"When does it leave again?" Alex frantically checked his phone while hastening their pace back to the docks. "I hope it hasn't departed without us! I completely lost track of time!" Panic began to creep into his voice as they hurried along.

"Well, if we are in need of a boat Alexander," Drayvos remarked, coming to a halt in front of a storefront, "I am thinking this place sells boats. No?" He gestured toward the display of high-end luxury yachts and houseboats, his excitement palpable.

As Drayvos examined the images of private yachts with wide-eyed enthusiasm, he couldn't contain his excitement. "Are these cruise lines, Alexander?!" he exclaimed, his voice brimming with childlike wonder.

Caught off guard by the suggestion of purchasing a boat for their journey back to California, Alex chuckled in amazement. The idea of owning a yacht had never crossed his mind before. Sure, he passed by the harbor in Berkeley every day on his way to and from the museum, but the thought of having a home on the water seemed like a distant dream, especially considering his finances at the time. "Drayvos, these are called yachts or houseboats," he explained, "They're smaller than cruise lines, but they offer a similar experience—your own personal cruise line, just large enough for a couple."

"We are a couple, no?" Drayvos replied with a warm smile. "And I have yet to find a place to call home. Food, clothing, and a home are the three necessities of all living beings, yes?" He nodded toward the yacht on display. "I have lived on a ship for over a thousand years. To me, it is more than just a vessel; it is a home."

Alex was taken aback by Drayvos's logical reasoning. "So, you really want to live on a yacht?"

Embracing his beloved, Drayvos looked down at Alex with adoration. "As long as you are by my side to warm my bed, Alexander, I will be content anywhere," he declared, before turning his attention back to the yacht with a mischievous grin. "But it does look like a lot of fun, does it not? Plenty of… privacy out on the open waters. And no captain, crew, or chef to tell us to keep it down."

Unable to resist Drayvos's infectious enthusiasm, Alex chuckled. "Alright, big guy, let's go buy ourselves a yacht." With that, they stepped into the dealership, ready to embark on their new adventure together.

—

Seated behind a sleek desk adorned with folders and glossy photos, Alex and Drayvos delved into an array of brochures showcasing an impressive selection of boats, houseboats, and private yachts. Meanwhile, the salesperson diligently tapped away at her keyboard, ready to assist with their inquiries.

"So, what exactly are you two gentlemen in the market for? Speed, luxury, spacious living quarters?" she inquired, her tone brimming with professional enthusiasm.

Drayvos considered the question for a moment before responding with a simple yet decisive statement. "I require a home," he declared, his gaze fixed intently on the images before him.

"Ah, living quarters it is, then. And what's your price range?" the salesperson continued, her fingers poised over the keys.

Before Alex could even begin to answer, Drayvos interjected with a confident assertion. "Money is not an issue," he stated matter-of-factly, his unwavering gaze never leaving the catalog.

Alex couldn't help but smile at Drayvos's declaration, nodding in agreement. "Indeed, budget is not a concern," he affirmed, his tone laced with approval.

"Excellent. And do either of you have any sailing experience?" the salesperson inquired, her eyes flitting between the two men as she typed away.

Glancing at each other with a shared understanding, Alex and Drayvos shook their heads in unison. "No, but my companion here has a remarkable ability to pick up new skills with astonishing speed," Alex replied, affectionately patting Drayvos's massive arm.

"Well, in that case, may I introduce you to our latest line of AI-powered luxury yachts?" she suggested, her fingers dancing across the keyboard. "They're state-of-the-art vessels equipped with advanced technology that practically navigates itself. And with features like solar panels and wave-generated power anchors, they're practically self-sufficient. All you need to do is charge the battery and dock for supplies."

Turning her monitor to reveal a sleek, futuristic yacht gleaming in black, she continued her pitch with a flourish. "Complete with a master bedroom, kitchen, dining room, laundry room, hot tub, and bar room—every conceivable amenity you'd find in a luxury home, but with the freedom to explore the open seas."

Drayvos leaned forward in awe, his eyes alight with excitement. "That will do!" he exclaimed, his voice echoing with satisfaction.

The salesperson's grin widened at the resolute declaration. "The price tag is 3.5 million US," she informed them, her expression tinged with anticipation.

"Consider it done. When can we take possession?" Drayvos inquired eagerly, his enthusiasm palpable.

Stunned by the ease of the transaction, the salesperson could barely contain her delight. "Just two or three days, as soon as it arrives from the factory in Mexico on the next shipping barge. In the meantime, feel free to enjoy our fabulous accommodations here in Panama City," she enthused, her eyes sparkling with joy.

With a nod of agreement, Drayvos rose from his seat, ready to finalize the deal. "Very well," he declared, his tone brimming with anticipation.

Handing them a digital tablet she gleamed at the easiest commission check she ever earned, "Let's get that paperwork sorted, shall we?"