“And how is it going these days, Paul?” Stumper’s latest question was more rhetorical than quizzical. He knew perfectly well how badly things were going for Small systems.

“Not too well, Mr. Stumper. We’re having a difficult time getting my new chip concept across to upper management.”

“Sorry about that, Paul. Maybe I can help.” This time Dargie added a nod and a wink.

“Sure could use help. We need a prototype to prove that the design is a good one.”

“You’ll get it, Paul. Stick with it, fella’, and I’ll see if I can’t get you some high-level support.” Stumper smiled broadly.

“That would be terrific. The going has been rough.” Paul tried to express confidence, but he wasn’t too sure. He knew that Dargell Stumper had connections, but not how great.

“You just keep up the good work, Paul, and we’ll see if we can’t get you that machine.” Now Dargell’s heart was thumping.

“I hope so. Really do,” came Paul’s reply.

“There are a few of us who know your idea is a good one, Paul. I’ll speak to some of our management team for you.”

“Thanks again, Mr. Stumper. I know my boss will be pleased with any support we can get. Mr. Mueller has been having a tough time getting our message to the right people. He and Mr. Arnesson can’t seem to get the help we need for this project.”

Dargell knew he struck a chord. This was going to help him in his quest, also. He had been to almost every meeting when Paul was either speaking, or an attendee. He had been hoping to find a way to start his relationship but he had to do it subtly. The right moment to strike the spark of sexual acceptance. Now he had found a need he could satisfy. He had to use it cleverly and most properly, especially in NatCom.

Most of Dargell’s acquaintances were found on the east side of Manhattan. He kept his social life apart from the company with good reason. Many members of the boardroom would not consider his lifestyle acceptable for the corporate image, and he knew it. Even tho’ gays were now taking a much more overt stand, risks were involved. But, Paul Rees was a handsome prize, and Dargell could not bear to lose the opportunity for this lover.

In their private world the gay men of Manhattan shared a life that mingled partners frequently. Dargell Stumper did not want this, particularly with the fear of AIDS. Life was beginning to be scary, especially when promiscuity could be fatal. Dargell knew he had to have a boy-friend all his own. Getting this one was very important.

On his trips to the ‘in’ places in San Francisco, Dargell had searched for that right person. But he was not successful. And, his search had to be cautious since so many company conferences were going on.

His best connection was the Army Colonel who enjoyed meeting him. What bothered Dargell was that Colonel “C” insisted on going drag. That affair came to an end when the Colonel met a younger, more agreeable lover. Trips to the west coast soon became a drudgery, and Dargell was looking elsewhere. Then along came Paul Rees. For many reasons, Dargell knew this would be his lover. He couldn’t get Paul out of his mind.

But, Dargell also knew that he must be careful. Nothing could be more dangerous than a gay company relationship. He knew he couldn’t be overt, but he wasn’t about to miss the chance to have his newly-found attraction in his nest. Games could be played, but one had to be diplomatic and discreet. Dargell also knew where the spies were, and who were the leaders of the cabal. He wanted to be certain that they didn’t get any information that could be damaging. He had been tested several times by the upper echelon and he wanted to avoid that scenario.

Dargell sensed Paul’s ambition, although it was centered in accomplishment rather than personal power. Dargell also wished that Paul wasn’t so technically-oriented. He wanted Paul to seek promotion, money, prestige, the same as most of NatCom’s younger engineers. That would have made his task so much easier. But, Paul was different, and there was no changing that. Money would have been the easiest. However, Dargell promised himself that he would meet this challenge.