Bali Bule Hunter

by Michael Powers

  Cass regarded Ari with frustration. “Must we have this discussion every time we get together? I’ll grant that Indonesians were abused by the Dutch and Chinese for several centuries, but Indonesia has been an independent nation more than fifty years. Can’t we agree the past was awful, and that we all share some blame? But for Jesus and Allah’s sake, let’s quit pointing fingers today unless there’s a solution that works for everyone. Is that fair?”

  Ari’s eyes blazed with anger. “I point finger. I know who own Iqbal boarding house. Rich Chinese name Dana. Next time you have fabulous lunch with you good friends Dana and Giordi, ask why Dana own so many boarding house all time burn down. Think it time to go home.”

  To avoid a scene, Tony followed Ari without protest. On the way out the front door, he glanced back, shrugged, and waved cheerily.

  Cass had no regrets. “I’m glad that simpering little bitch left! Every party, she complains about the same thing! The Euros, Chinese, and Americans are ruining her country! She latched onto the first Euro who would have her, and now she’s living in grand style, but it won’t last long. If she doesn’t tone down her little temper tantrums, Tony will dump her for someone more sociable. I’m sure he’s getting sick of leaving every party early because Ari picks a fight!”

  There were several nods and approving grunts, then the discussion shifted to a fundraiser for the dance troupe. Greg glanced at Budi, wondering how much Ari’s remarks about Chinese bothered him. “This place is crawling with serial killer suspects,” Greg joked. “No wonder ISIS finds Indonesia such fertile recruiting ground. Ari’s got enough rage to slit a few throats, don’t ya think?”

  Budi shrugged. “Ari’s harmless. I’ve heard that rant before. Think that little scene was to impress you with his passion and brilliance, although you’re not really his type. You need to be thirty years older, and have your own mansion on Bali before Ari will be seriously interested. Anyway, he’s too much of a sissy to be a killer.”

  “Is he always so anti-Chinese?”

  “Usually worse!” Budi snorted. “He was on his best behavior tonight.”

  “Who are Dana and Giordi?” Greg asked innocently.

  Budi gazed at Greg for several moments, uncertain whether to hug or slap him. “That would be like me asking who Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are in your country.”

  “That big, huh?” Greg grinned sheepishly.

  Budi shook his head. “Big here, but I can see their fame hasn’t spread across the Pacific yet. Dana owns the most successful salon chain in Indonesia. He sells his own brand of cosmetics, clothing, and furniture. His investment company owns hotels, apartments, and Net cafes all over Southeast Asia. He’s one of a handful of Chinese who control much of Indonesia’s wealth. A couple years ago, he bankrolled his lover’s singing debut. Now Giordi is the most famous recording star in the country.”

  “How come their names don’t sound Chinese?”

  “Under President Suharto in the 1970s, Chinese were ordered to change their names to something sounding more Indonesian. Most Chinese chose Muslim first names and added o to their last names.

  “This is such an interesting place,” Greg grinned. “Guess that makes Dana your biggest competitor, huh?”

  “Yeah, the way an ant considers an elephant its biggest competitor on the food chain.”

  “Do you know each other?” Greg asked.

  Budi glanced around the room, seeking a distraction. “We’ve met.” Grabbing Greg’s arms suddenly, Budi asked, “Can I trust you to remain faithful to me while I slip away for a few minutes to use the bathroom?”

  “Our fake relationship is safe,” Greg assured Budi. “I don’t see anyone here I pretend like better than you.”

  Budi squinted. “Gee, thanks. Now I feel all warm and tingly inside. Probably won’t be able to pee.”

  Moments after Budi left the room, Punk darted to Greg’s side, offering to refill his plate.

  “No thanks. I had plenty and it was excellent,” Greg assured Punk. “You have a great life here.”

  Punk shrugged. “Not perfect. Thanks God Cass let me free-lance.”

  “You sell your sketches?” Greg guessed, assuming Punk was referring to his drawings.

  Punk raised a hand to cover his laugh. “Yes, but I free-lance other thing also. We got open relationship. He no mind I free-lance sex,” Punk assured Greg with a seductive wiggle.

  “Good to know,” Greg replied, searching the room desperately for Budi.

  “So sorry hear Budi HIV positive. Him still feel good most times?” Punk asked.

  Greg scowled at Punk. “Budi’s HIV positive?” That didn’t sound right. Budi assured him he always used a condom. He certainly seemed healthy.

  Pretending to be surprised, Punk covered his mouth again to suppress a gasp. “Ohhhh.....Budi no tell you? Too bad I slip. You want safe fun? Call me this number, Greg.” Punk shoved a note into Greg’s hand, blew a kiss, and then slipped away.

  When Budi returned, he asked if he missed anything.

  “Couple people left. Couple people arrived. Punk told me you’re HIV positive. I’m certainly glad we’ve been careful.”

  Budi jerked around to face Greg. “He told you what? That skinny little slut! I should…….........”

  “Relax,” Greg grinned. “He’s just trying to spice up his sex life at your expense. Remember what we’re here for, okay?”

  Budi grinned. “I hope my future Mr. Right handles my treacherous friends as well as you!”

  “Given your charm,” Greg assured him, “you’ll work things out. Just remember, truth is a complete defense against lying sluts.”

  Greg noticed all the guests were watching the front door, then he heard shouts and screams outside. The doors flung open and Punk screamed, “They here! Dana and Giordi! Cass, they here!”

  Turning to Budi, Greg grinned, “My lucky night! I get to meet genuine Bali celebs.”

  Budi faced Greg, eyes pleading silently. “I’ll explain later, but can you please be convincing as my boyfriend? I’ll never ask anything else if you do this one favor.”

  Chapter 5

  Considering how helpful Budi had been, Greg promised to be so convincing he’d receive an Oscar nomination for his role as Budi’s boyfriend.

  Entering the room like royalty, Dana and Giordi waved, smiled, threw kisses, and hugged a lucky few. “Dana’s the silver-haired one, and Giordi is the tall, young guy clinging to him,” Budi explained as he sent a text message summoning their taxi.

  After studying the celebrities a few moments, Greg nodded thoughtfully. “They certainly look the part. Dana is the most elegant man I’ve seen on Bali, even with the ponytail. Giordi’s very handsome, too. Think he’ll ever be a hit in America?”

  “His English sucks,” Budi smirked. “Don’t really think he cares if anyone outside Indonesia knows who he is. He’s treated like a god in this country, and those two live like kings. They don’t need Europe or America. They’re doing just fine right here.”

  When Dana spotted Budi, he waved and blew a kiss, then whispered to Giordi, who also waved. They made their way through the crowded living room to Budi and Greg. Dana draped his arms around Budi, kissing him lightly on the lips. “Lovely to see you,” Dana cooed, stroking Budi’s hair. Giordi leaned over and kissed Budi, but said nothing.

  “What a surprise!” Budi laughed nervously, uncomfortable for the first time since Greg met him. “You two are both looking well. Let me introduce my American boyfriend, Greg Simmons, from California.”

  Greg extended his hand to Dana and Giordi. They both received his gesture with polite restraint. “California?” Dana asked Greg. “I know another Simmons, in Los Angeles. Ted Simmons. We met at an art auction and had dinner at his beautiful Brentwood home last year. He promised to help me find just the right beach property.”

  “That’s my uncle,” Greg gushed proudly.

  “Ted never mentioned he had such an attractive nephew,” Dana winked.

  “Ted
was never one to brag,” Greg blushed, glancing at Budi. “What a small world! This is great. Budi, finally we meet someone who knows my uncle.”

  Budi’s heart was pounding. He regretted bringing Greg to the cocktail party. The last thing he needed was for Dana and Giordi to learn Greg was not really his boyfriend. Next to the last thing he needed was for Greg to find his uncle too quickly. Budi wanted a little more time with his pretend boyfriend. Please God, just a little more time before you take this one away, too!

  Oblivious to Budi’s frozen silence, Greg asked Dana, “Have you seen Ted since he arrived on Bali?”

  Dana cocked his head. “He’s on Bali? I’d love to see my old friend and repay his hospitality. He must be a guest at our villa. You’re welcome, too, Greg. And, Budi, you know you’re always welcome.”

  “You haven’t seen Ted?” Budi asked, finding his voice again.

  Dana shook his head. “Not since we left the States. He promised to visit us this year. We exchange calls and e-mails, but haven’t heard from him in several weeks. Is he here tonight?”

  Greg shook his head. “I’m afraid I don’t know where he is. He was staying at the Four Seasons, but checked out. I left messages, but he hasn’t returned them. I was hoping you might know where I can find him.”

  Dana smiled. “Perhaps Ted met someone with a private villa and they want to be alone while they get to know each other.” The gleam in Dana’s eyes told Greg he had done something similar on occasion.

  “I hope you’re right,” Greg grinned nervously. “That might explain why he left his luggage at the Four Seasons. Maybe he’s staying with someone who has everything he needs. Any suggestions? I mean, do you know someone with a private villa my uncle might be staying with?”

  Dana rubbed his temples. “Many come to mind, but I wouldn’t know where to begin. In fact, he could be on another island. Perhaps nearby Lombok. Or as far as Sulawesi. There are so many places!” Turning to Budi for assistance, Dana asked, “You know Bali so well. Does a likely host for Ted come to mind?”

  Budi was glaring at Giordi, but forced himself to turn away. “Dana, you’re the only one I know with a villa nicer than the Four Seasons. I don’t think he’d give up one of their suites to stay with any of the men I know.”

  Dana gazed fondly at him, then reached out and rubbed Budi’s chin gently. “You’re looking well, young man. Success suits you. I hear you have two salons now. Soon you will be my most formidable competitor.”

  “Your empire is safe,” Budi assured Dana. “I don’t have any expansion plans.”

  “Ahhhh, so that you might pursue a new love interest perhaps?” Dana speculated, glancing coyly at Greg.

  Wrapping his arm tightly about Budi’s waist, Greg hugged him warmly. “Yes, I’ve made it very clear that I expect Budi to devote more time to me than his business.”

  “How long have you two been.......involved?” Dana asked hesitantly.

  “Not long, but it was love at first sight!” Greg declared as Budi gazed up at him adoringly.

  “Yes, I can see,” Dana murmured. “I hope you’ll join us for dinner some evening soon so we can all become better acquainted.”

  “I’d enjoy that,” Greg replied. “Maybe Giordi will entertain us with a song or two?”

  At the mention of his name, Giordi perked up, nodding eager agreement.

  “Excellent!” Budi cried. “I’ll call and set something up. Wish we could stay longer but we were just on our way out when you arrived. Greg’s got a touch of jet lag, and needs to rest.”

  Budi hustled Greg out the front door, doing his good-byes on the fly. Most people assumed the two lovers were anxious to be alone in bed, a belief Budi fostered by fondling Greg in front of as many guests as possible. The taxi was waiting in front of Cass’ home as Budi and Greg made their exit. As the door slammed shut, Greg and Budi both rushed to speak, so Greg gestured Budi should go first.

  “I really appreciate what you did for me in there, Greg.”

  “Show your appreciation by telling me what that was all about. From the looks you three exchanged, I’m guessing there’s a love triangle you forgot to mention earlier today in your bio.”

  “I never lied to you!” Budi insisted.

  “Hey, I never said you lied. You just forgot a few facts. Now spill!”

  Budi hung his head. “Dana was my best client when I worked for Yogi. He fell in love and wanted me to quit working so I could live with him. I refused because I was in love with a tall, slender Chinese boy from Semarang named Giordi. He sang in second-rate hotel lounges all over Bali, but had the best voice I’d ever heard. Giordi was also the most passionate lover I’ve ever known. We were perfect together in every way, but he wanted something I couldn’t give him. He wanted to be a star. I knew he’d never be happy until he got what he wanted, so I gave him the only help I could. I introduced Giordi to Dana, one of the richest men in my country. They were living together two weeks later. Dana bankrolled Giordi’s career, but he didn’t forget me. He loaned me money to open the flower shop and the first salon.”

  Greg gazed at Budi as if seeing him for the first time. A peculiar little grin took shape around the corners of his mouth. Glancing at Greg, Budi moaned, “I know that look. You think I’m the world’s biggest fool.”

  “Not even close,” Greg shook his head. “I have a great deal of respect for what you did. I’m a sucker for self-sacrifice. Your relationship with Giordi explains your views on love, sex, romance, and security.”

  Budi gazed intently at Greg. “Giordi’s not the only reason. Just one of many. Know what? Even though we’re fake boyfriends, we still have a better relationship than most of the couples I know. Wanna know why?”

  Greg nodded.

  “Cuz I trust you. I asked you to do something for me, and you did it, without asking for anything in return. No bargaining. No whining. No long explanations. I didn’t want them to see me alone tonight. Thanks to you, they saw me with my handsome young bule boyfriend. The nephew of a rich American. For a few moments, I had something neither of them has ever had, so I owe you big time, Greg. Thanks.”

  “Glad I could help, Budi. Finding my uncle is payment in full, all right?”

  Twisting toward Greg, Budi said, “I’m feeling very close to you right now. Can I give you a hug?”

  Aware of his growing affection for Budi, Greg nodded. Budi draped his arms around Greg’s shoulders, pressing the side of his head against Greg’s. On an impulse, Budi quickly turned Greg’s face, then kissed his lips softly. When Greg made no attempt to end the kiss, Budi became more intense, inserting his tongue into Greg’s mouth. Fondling Greg’s crotch, Budi knew he had aroused his new friend. When Budi tried to pull Greg’s zipper down, Greg stopped him.

  “Not here,” Greg whispered.

  “The hotel?” Budi pleaded.

  “If I say yes,” Greg grinned, “will you behave until we get to my room?”

  Sitting up, Budi promised he wouldn’t touch Greg until they were back at the Kuta Sands. “Should we visit Anton tomorrow morning?”

  “Absolutely,” Greg smiled. “If he’s able to give us another piece of the puzzle, then it was well worth going to Cass’ party.

  When they reached the Kuta Sands Hotel, Budi paid the taxi driver while Greg held the door. A silver Toyota slid into a parking space a half block away. Greg wondered if it was the same one he’d seen earlier outside Budi’s apartment.

  Greg smiled at the hotel staff as he walked by the front desk, and Budi called out something in Bahasa. When Greg asked what he said, Budi replied, “I asked them not to bother us since we’ll be having sex.”

  “You’re bold, Budi, but I doubt you’re that bold!”

  When the elevator door closed behind them, Budi locked his arms around Greg. “I assured them we are registered guests of the hotel, that’s all. With their active imaginations, they’re fantasizing about us having sex right now cuz I know at least two of them are gay.”

  Once inside the
hotel room, Budi began removing his clothes. “Sure you wanna do this, Greg?”

  “Yes,” Greg admitted as he unbuttoned his shirt slowly. “I liked seeing you naked this morning. Several times today I found myself wondering what it would be like to make love with you.”

  “Remember,” Budi grinned as he moved toward Greg, “once you’ve had Budi, you’ll never want any other man.” Stripping off Greg’s pants, Budi murmured, “Nice tool!” as he fondled Greg. “Huge and hairy! This is why we love bules. Do you like what you see, Greg?”

  Placing both hands on Budi’s hairless chest, Greg caressed the coffee-and-cream colored skin using small circular motions, moving up and down the firm torso. “Yes, I like what I see and feel,” Greg assured his partner. “I’ve never felt such smooth skin before. Do you shave all your body hair off?”

  “Silly bule! Never had any to shave,” Budi whispered as he pawed at Greg’s chest hair. “That’s why we’re so crazy about hairy white guys. Do you really like my smooth skin?” he asked anxiously.

  “Very much,” Greg smiled, caressing Budi’s arms and back.

  “You can touch my dick,” Budi offered. “I’m clean.”

  Greg fondled Budi’s cock with his left hand, fascinated with the long, thick foreskin. Like most white American men his age, Greg was circumcised at birth. Like most Chinese men everywhere, Budi was not.

  “Does the foreskin bother you?” Budi asked anxiously, grateful he always kept it clean.

  “Not at all,” Greg grinned. “It’s like a little Budi wearing a hood,” Greg snickered, then apologized quickly. “Honest, I really like it.”

  “You’re sure it’s not a problem? Many Americans find uncut men gross,” Budi worried.

  “I really don’t know what all the fuss is all about,” Greg insisted. “I’ve never been with an uncut man before, but it’s just a little piece of skin.”

  “A little piece of skin that makes all the difference in the world in many cultures,” Budi replied. “Many Muslims, Jews, Filipinos, and Americans won’t go near an uncut dick.”