With her permission, I have borrowed liberally during the conversation about September 11, 2001 from Pfyre’s story “Waiting.” Thank you Pfyre so much for allowing me to use portions of that wonderful story in this one.

Defining Moments

“Boss, there’s someone on line one that says he’s an old school chum,” Cynthia said from Brian’s door.

“I went to school with a hell of a lot of people. Can you tell me something that will help me out?"

“He did mention the word Hotlanta. Does that mean anything to you?” Cynthia asked.

“Paul?” Brian asked as he picked up the phone.

“You got it,” Paul answered.

“What are you calling for? What’s up?” Brian quickly asked.

“You do know our boys have been emailing each other since we came back from Atlanta, don’t you?”

“I saw Jason’s name in Justin’s address book, but I haven’t taken the time to read anything. Is there something I need to know about?”

“Well it seems they have decided that they want to get together again and Jason wants it to be this weekend.”

“What’s this weekend?”

“Nothing special. We have a client presentation on Monday in NYC and thought we would make a long weekend of it. Then Jason asked if we could make a detour to Pittsburgh on the way and catch up with you guys. I’d also like to see Lindsay and this child of yours, if I may.”

“Can’t think of a reason to tell you no. Nothing interesting going on, but it doesn’t sound like you will be spending much time here. Other than seeing Lindsay, is there anything else I can arrange for you both to see or do while you are in town?”

“Liberty Avenue and Babylon, and Justin apparently mentioned the baths to him. You allow him to go to the baths?”

“Only lately and only with me. How do you feel about Jason going there?”

“Brian, the baths are in my past. I don’t care if he sees what I used to do; it’s not what I do now and he knows that. Actually he’s been pretty sheltered, it’ll open those cute eyes of his.”

“When do you guys arrive?” Brian asked.

“We’ve talked about either Thursday or Friday. We have tickets to see “The Producers” for Saturday night and Jason wanted to do some sightseeing while we are there.”

Brian was silent for a few seconds. “Paul, would the two of you mind some company while you were in New York? I’ve been thinking of a trip I wanted to make with the little twat I live with and now would be as good a time as any.”

“I was going to suggest you both come with us anyway. We have two extra tickets to the show thinking we might want to take our clients, but I’d rather share the night with the two of you. And knowing the boys, they’ll probably want to do many of the same things anyway.”

“Perfect. Sunday is the anniversary of a jaunt I had to take to bring home a certain blond-haired artist and I have the perfect way to celebrate it. Tell Jason you are coming on Friday, but get here Thursday night. That way he’ll tell Justin the same thing. Now let’s talk about what to do when you get here…”

A few minutes later Brian got on the intercom and said, “Cynthia, I need for you to clear my calendar for Friday and Monday. Also, get Vance on the phone

Now to make some plans, Brian thought. He was soon interrupted by the phone ringing.

“What can I help you with, Brian?” Gardner asked.

“You mentioned when I became partner that the use of your family's apartment in Manhattan would be at my disposal if I needed it. I would like to use it for the weekend if it is available.”

“Come up and get the address and keys. I’ll inform the staff that you will be there…when? Friday?”

“Yes, Friday through Monday morning. Thanks.”

****
Thursday afternoon

Justin’s cell phone rang. He smiled when he saw the name on the readout, “Hey Brian, what can I do for you?”

“Not what I would really like for you to do. Two questions. When do you get done with classes today and can you take tomorrow and Monday off?”

“I thought you had my schedule memorized. I’m done at four today and probably won’t have too much trouble missing classes. What’s up?”

“Can’t you guess?” Brian asked as his hand went to his crotch.

“Brian, I wish I had time for this, but I don’t. Especially if I have to talk to my professors about missing two days of classes.”

“What a spoil-sport,” Brian sighed. “OK, Paul and Jason are coming through Pittsburgh on their way to NYC and will be here tomorrow. They want to see Lindsay and meet Gus and then they want us to accompany them to New York for the weekend. Are you up for it?"

“Am I up for it?? Damn right I am. Jason and I have been emailing but he didn’t say it would be this soon. When will they be here tomorrow?”

“Paul is calling later today about their schedule. We’ll pick them up and go straight to Lindsay and Mel’s. We’ll talk when they get here about what we want to do once we are in New York."

“Great, see you later.”

****
Later Thursday night

“What kind of clothes do I need?” Justin asked as he looked through his drawers.

“Comfortable ones for daytime and good walking shoes. Bring one nice outfit for Saturday night. Let’s wear our cashmere turtlenecks and wool pants.”

As they finished packing, Justin turned to Brian and said, “Want to go to Woody’s?”

“Sounds good, let’s go.”

****
Woody’s

As Brian lined up a shot at the pool table, Michael said, “I’m glad you told us where you’d be. I would have been worried if I didn’t hear from you all weekend.(")

Emmett smiled, “That’s happened before and we usually know where you both are and what you’re doing!”

Brian smiled back, “I’m sure we’ll be doing exactly what you think, it’ll just be in a different place.”

Later as Brian and Justin left Woody’s, Brian took Justin's hand, “Let’s go to the baths and see if we can find anything good tonight.”

Justin looked at his watch, then up at Brian, smiled slightly and asked “Isn’t it a little early?”

“Yeah, but I have a feeling we might find a couple of hot hung studs there tonight.”

As they entered the baths, they slowed down to allow their eyes to adjust to the lack of light. Brian placed his arm across Justin’s shoulder.

Justin looked around, “What about him?”

“Nah, not what I’m looking for.” He pointed to an older man slowly stroking his dick. “How about him?”

Justin crinkled up his nose. “Yuck, way too old and look at the size of his dick, way too small.”

As they looked around Justin spotted two men standing with their backs to them, watching a couple on a couch in front of them.

Brian pointed. “How about them?”

Justin cocked his head to the side. “There is something familiar about them. Have we had them before?”

They walked closer and Justin’s face lit up in recognition. “It’s Jason and Paul.”

As the two heard their names they turned around. Justin looked up to Brian and smiled. “You planned this, you shit, telling me they were coming tomorrow! "

Justin went up to Jason and Paul and hugged them both and said, "It's so good to see you guys. Do you want to stay here or go to Babylon?”

Jason said as he placed his arm around Justin, “Babylon definitely. I only wanted to see the baths. But I want to dance at Babylon. You made it sound way too good.”

Brian gave Paul a look. “Babylon hasn’t changed much, Paul. Well, the boys do seem a bit young at times. Are you guys hungry?” We could stop by the diner; it hasn’t changed at all.”

Justin and Jason looked at each other. “Yeah!” they said together.

Brian looked at Paul, "Like I had to ask."

****
Liberty Diner

As they walked in the diner, they heard Debbie call out “Sunshine!”

Jason and Paul exchanged a glance. Paul exclaimed, “Sunshine! What gives?”

Justin grimaced. “Debbie gave me that name the first time we met and it stuck. She calls me Sunshine just as much as she calls me Justin. Just about everyone does now-even this one,” pointing to Brian.

“Yes, but I have a reason,” Brian said as he reached out to tickle Justin. As Justin began to laugh, Brian pointed to his smile and said, “THAT’s why I call him Sunshine.”

“Well, introduce me to your friends.” Pointing her pencil toward Paul, Debbie said, “You look familiar, have you been in here before? And how do you know these two?”

Paul looked at Brian, then at Debbie. “I went to school with this guy at Penn State.You probably remember me from when we came in here to pass the time between classes.”

"Oh yeah, you would meet Lindsay here sometimes and talk for hours," Debbie said as she smiled at Paul. "And this cute young'un is your partner?"

“Yes, we own an advertising agency in Cincinnati.”

Brian said, “This is Paul Dunbar and his partner Jason. When Justin and I went to Atlanta, Paul and Jason were there for the same seminar.”

Debbie looked at Jason. "You look about the same age as Sunshine here. Are you in school too?"

"I'm actually a few years older than Justin. I've been out of school for about 4 years. I've been in this business since I was about 18 and a partner in the business for the last few years. I've been with Paul for almost as long."

"Been with Paul?"

"Yes, we live together as well as work together."

"Well, what can I get you all?" Debbie smiled at the four men as she brought her pad up to write on it.

Later at Babylon

"You weren't kidding were you, Justin?" Jason asked as they entered Babylon. As soon as the four entered the door they were surrounded by lights and the wild beat of the music blasting in their ears. Once inside, Justin and Jason began moving to the music. They grabbed hands and waved to their respective partners and went off into the mass of dancing bodies.

Paul and Brian headed straight for the bar, ordering drinks and watched Jason and Justin dancing into each other's arms, Brian nodded to Paul, and together they walked to the dance floor.

Paul took Justin into his arms and whispered, "This is just the beginning of a great weekend together. Jason has missed you. I want you to think about coming to visit us at the agency maybe this summer. I'd really like to show you how you could fit in there when you graduate."

As Brian swept Jason off his feet and swung him around, he said, "You have made Justin a happy boy. He talked for the longest time about how much he enjoyed his time in Atlanta."

"I had one of the best times in my life there too. Paul has talked since we got home about how talented Justin is and how he thought we would work well together."

"I hope that Paul will keep his mouth shut about a job when Justin gets done with school."

"I wouldn't bet your life on it, though. Look at his face; that is the face of a man who loves what he is talking about. Other than when he is talking about me, he only looks that way when he talks about the agency.(")

"Shit. I've asked him to not talk business until Justin is done with school.”

"Brian, Paul usually gets what he wants. I am a prime example of this. He has a way of keeping after you until he gets what he wants. But knowing Justin, he will not make a decision without you being a primary factor."

"Well then we have a couple of years yet. Justin is trying to take classes even during the summer so he can graduate a year early."

"Let's change partners, shall we?" asked Jason.

Brian slipped his arms around Justin's waist as he leaned in and whispered, "Can I break in?"

Justin turned quickly in Brian's arms and drew his head down for a kiss. "You betcha, baby," he answered as he slipped his arms around Brian's shoulders and nestled his head on his chest.

The four men danced together until they were sweaty and thirsty. Brian caught Paul’s eye and dipped his head toward the bar. Paul bought drinks and they leaned with their backs on the bar and looked at the crowd. Justin and Jason were still bouncing to the music. Paul and Brian looked over their heads at each other.

Paul said, "How about you and I take my car and go to the loft and discuss the weekend and let the boys stay here until they drop. Justin and Jason can come later in the Jeep."

"Sounds like a plan. You guys OK with that?"

"Shoot yeah! OK with you Jason?" asked Justin with a smile on his face and his body moving to the music.

Jason nodded his head and leaned over and kissed Paul. "See you later, baby. Wait up for us."

"You better believe it."

****
At the loft

Brian opened the loft door and pointed for Paul to go in before him. As Paul walked in, he looked around him, then looked back at Brian as he was closing the door. "Damn, this is great!"

"It works for me…and Justin. Can I get you something to drink?"

"Water would be good."

Brian opened the refrigerator door, grabbed a couple of bottles of water and threw one to Paul. "It sounded like you had something on your mind before. Want to talk about it now?"

"When are we going to Lindsay's tomorrow?"

"She and Melanie want us around 9:00am for breakfast."

"Good. Brian, I want to meet your son and see Lindsay and meet her partner, but I have another reason too. I want to see how Jason reacts around Gus. I have been thinking of a child for a while now. My sister is in her 30's and not in a relationship and has consented to have a child for us. But I have to know Jason wants it as much as I do, especially since he'll be the sperm donor. We have a nice home; I'd like to see more than just Jason and I living in it."

"Have you all talked about it?"

"We have spoken about children when we watch TV about family life, but not really had a 'what do we really want in our life' discussion."

"How do you think he feels about it?"

"Well from comments he has made and the way I have seen him around children, I'm pretty sure that the feeling is positive. Tomorrow I am hoping to get a confirmation."

"Well, if anyone can do it, Gus can. He is his father's son."

"Has a temper, huh?"

"Funny, Paul. Funny"

The loft door opened and Paul and Brian heard two people stumble in laughing. "Damn, Justin, I thought you were going to run up on the curb, you got so close."

As they looked around, Justin noticed the look he was getting from Brian. "Shhh, Jason, he doesn't let me drive often. Don't give him a reason to never let me drive again."

Jason whistled as he took in the loft. "You weren't kidding, Justin. This is a fabulous place to live. Where's the bathroom?"

Justin pointed to the other side of the room then went over to sit in Brian's lap. He kissed him softly. "Did you enjoy your time alone?"

"Yes, did you two?"

"Oh yeah. There were these hot guys all over us from the time you left until we chose two and went to the backroom."

Brian stiffened. Justin looked at Paul, then at Brian. When he saw the glare in Brian's eyes, he laughed. He bent his head down until his lips were at Brian's ear. "Baby, we danced together until we came home. I did show Jason the back room, but that is it. Honest." As Jason came into the living room, Justin pleaded with him, "Tell them what we did after they left."

"We danced. That's all. What did he say we did? Justin, what did you tell them? Are you trying to get us into trouble?"

"The back room?" Paul asked with his eyebrows raised as Jason came to sit by him on the sofa.

"Oh, Justin did bring me down there on the way out. I wanted to see it, that's all. I mean you've never taken me to a backroom, Paul. I wanted to see what I had missed in my youth." Jason snuggled close to Paul. "I realized I haven't really missed anything at all."

Jason closed his eyes, laying his head on Paul's shoulder. "I'm getting pretty sleepy. Let's go to bed."

Brian looked at Justin. "Would you mind them staying here tonight? We have to be at Lindsay's for breakfast at 9:00."

"That would be fun. We can all sleep together."

"That won't be necessary, Brian," Paul said. "We have a hotel reservation."

"No, our bed is big enough for four. Stay the night. We will sleep tonight, just sleep."

"If you're sure, let me put this boy in the bed and then I'll get our suitcases from the car."

Justin said, “It’s up the stairs. Give me your keys and Brian and I will get the bags." Paul took Jason's arm and together they stumbled up the stairs to the bed. He sat him down and took off his socks and shoes, then his shirt and pants. He laid him down on the right side of the bed, took off his own clothes and lay down beside him.

When Justin and Brian came back, they found Jason and Paul lying side by side, asleep. Brian looked at Justin, “That looks like a good idea.” He took off his clothes and pulled Justin to his side on the left.

****
The next morning

Brian reached past Justin's waist, found Justin's morning wood, and whispered, "Let's take care of this in the shower. Then we can wake up the guys."

After the shower (and sex) Brian took his wet towel and Justin put both index fingers in his mouth. As Brian stood at the foot of the bed and Justin at the left side, they looked at each other and nodded slightly. At the nod, Brian flicked the towel at Paul's body and Justin did a wet willie to Jason.

"Hey, what's going on?" "Yuck, what was that?" Paul and Jason said together opening their eyes and looking at the offenders.

"Your turn to get wet. Towels are on the rack outside the shower. Have a nice time, we did," Brian said as he smirked to the two left in bed. "Take your time."

As Jason and Paul walked out from the bathroom, they found Brian and Justin on the sofa watching Power Puff Girls.

"Get ready guys. Remember we have to be at the Munchers by 9:00,” Jason called out.

****
Mel and Lindsay's house

Justin rang the doorbell a few minutes after 9:00. As the door opened, Lindsay saw Jason and Justin. They were being held around the waist by their respective partners, all with smiles on their faces.

"Sorry we’re a bit late. God, you look the same Lindsay," Paul said.

"You don't look too much different yourself, Paul. So this is your partner?" Lindsay said smiling.

"This is Jason."

The group walked into the house and into the dining room. Melanie watching as Gus fed himself, looked up with a smirk at Brian. “I’m Melanie and I’m sure the tall guy there told you everything you need to know about me. I’m also sure that Justin is hungry, so grab your plates and fill them up.” She turned back to Gus and wiped his mouth.

“Mel, this is Jason and his partner Paul. Lindsay probably told you they have their own advertising agency.” Justin made introductions as he picked up Gus from his child seat on the chair.

“Yes, she did. She also told me that Paul was in college the same time she and Brian were.”

During brunch, they talked about their lives since college. Gus was passed from mom to mom, then from mom to dad, then dad to Justin. Paul and Jason kept their eyes on Gus as each of the adults played and talked with him while he was in their arms.

Justin turned to Jason, “Want to hold him?”

Jason looked at Paul, then at the rest of the adults in the room. “Yeah, I’d like to try my hand at this baby thing.” As Justin handed him to Jason, Gus turned to look at Justin, “Jus?”

“It’s OK Gus, I’m right here,” Justin said as he patted Gus’ back. “Why don’t we take him out back and swing awhile. We’ll let the adults catch up.”

“He’s a beautiful boy, Lindsay. Are you thinking of having any more?” Paul asked.

“We really haven’t discussed it. Possibly. How about you guys?”

“Well, we’ve been together for 6 years. He’s 24 and I’m in my mid-thirties. I’m ready but I have to know that he wants it as much as I do. That is one of the reasons we came through Pittsburgh; to give him the chance to spend some time with your son. My sister is willing to have the child for us.”

“That’s great, Paul. I couldn’t think of anyone but Brian being Gus’ father.” Lindsay said.

“Yeah, she never gave a thought to anyone else but Mr. Nice Guy here,” drawled Mel as she shot a look at Brian.

In the backyard, Justin and Jason were having a similar conversation.

“I think he wants a child. We’ve kind of talked about it, but I haven’t really said anything one way or another.”

Justin looked at Jason, “It sure is life changing. When we have Gus; it changes what we do, what we eat, what we say. But I wouldn’t give it up for the world. I’m kind of hoping if we hold it together as a couple, maybe Brian will think about us having one of our own. Then we wouldn’t have to borrow Gus.”

“I wonder if Paul wanted me to meet Gus to see how I would react?”

“If you find out it is, what will you tell him?”

“If we can have one just like Gus, let’s have one right away. Seriously, I am willing if he is.”

Gus reached his arms out to Justin and whined, “Jus!”. As Justin picked him up, Gus laid his head on Justin’s chest and closed his eyes.

"I believe we have a sleepy boy. Let’s put him to bed for the Munchers.”

As they made their way into the house, they found the rest of the group in the living room with coffee. Justin pointed at Gus then upstairs. Jason followed them up the stairs.

"Mmmmm," Paul murmured watching the boys walk upstairs.

A few minutes later Justin and Jason walked into the living room and sat by their respective partners.

"Well, how did you like getting to know Gus better?" Paul asked Jason.

"If this was a test, the answer is yes."

Paul closed his eyes and leaned his head against Jason's.

"He's a great child. You all should be proud of the job you all are doing raising him. Though I have to admit seeing Brian 'fuck them all' Kinney as a father is amazing."

Mel smiled and said, "Thank you, though you have missed him acting like his father."

Brian stuck his tongue in his cheek then gave a short bow to the group.

Later, Mel and Lindsay walked the four to the door, said goodbye and watched them as they got into the car.

When they got back to the loft, Paul and Jason got out of the Jeep and walked to their car at the curb.

"Hate to do it, but we need to catch our flight. You said your flight was when, Brian?" Paul asked as he unlocked the driver's door.

"We leave at 4:00. I gave you the address and number to the apartment where we'll be staying. We'll expect curb service tonight around 7:00." Brian said as he smiled at the men getting into the rental car.

"Only the best for our friends. Be good….nah. Be bad! Do it for us"

"You have an apartment in New York, Brian?" Justin asked as he looked up at Brian.

"You twat. Of course not, but Vance does and it's ours for the weekend."

"Neat. Where is it?"

"Right across from Central Park."

"I am so excited! I wish we could leave right now."

"I have other plans for right now, sonny boy. I want to help you get rid of some of this excess energy before we fly this afternoon."

Justin looked at Brian and grinned, "What are we standing here for, then?"

E. 5th Ave around 60th Street

The limousine pulled up in front of a brownstone on 5th Avenue. The driver opened the door to let his passengers out, then stepped to the trunk and took out their suitcases. As Brian handed him the fare and the generous tip, the man handed Brian a card and said, "Sir, any time you need me during your stay, please do not hesitate to call me."

"Brian, this is beautiful! And right across from the Park. Did you see what was on the corner? F.A.O. Schwarz! Can I go while we're here?"

"Like I thought that I could bring you any where close to a toy store and keep you away? Do I look like the Grinch who stole Christmas? Actually with Christmas around the corner, it's a good time for us both to do a little shopping while we are here. Let's get these bags upstairs and find something to do."

Brian unlocked the door and stepped back for Justin to go inside. He waited a moment before closing the door behind him. Justin had already left the foyer and was moving farther into the apartment. Brian wanted to see the expression on Justin's face as he looked around the apartment.

"Fuck me Brian. How big is this place?"

"It's about the size of Mel and Lindsay's house; but all on one floor."

"Brian…guess what I found?" came the voice from the far end of the apartment.

"Keep talking…I'll find you and save you."

Brian walked toward the master bedroom and found Justin stepping out of his pants. "I see you found our bedroom. What do you think?"

"This bedroom is almost as big as your loft." Justin walked toward Brian. "Here, let me help you with that," Justin murmured as he reached up to help Brian off with his shirt. As Justin started to unzip Brian's pants, Brian placed his hands over Justin's, leaned down and captured his lips with his own. They both strove to get as close to each other as they could. Brian moved Justin back toward the bed and laid him down gently, covering him with his body. Brian placed both hands on Justin's head as his tongue covered every inch of his mouth. Justin worked Brian's pants down his hips as his hands feathered light touches on his ass. They were just getting down to business when Brian looked over at the clock on the bedside table. "Damn, it's time to get ready. They are going to be here in less than an hour." He shook Justin gently. "Come on Sunshine, get up. Let's get dressed."

Brian and Justin were out the door at 7:00 and as they stepped to the curb, a limousine pulled up, the door opened, "Come on in, friends."

"So what does everyone want to eat?" Paul asked when Brian and Justin sat down.

"Look, why don't you pick out the restaurant tonight, and I'll pick the bagels up for breakfast in the morning?" Brian said with a grin.

"Deal. I've heard about a great place on W. 79th Street called Two Two Two. It has a extensive wine list, both French and American that you would enjoy, Brian. You purchase the wine and I'll buy dinner. The menu is supposed to be one of the best in the city. And you two would probably love the interior with all the oil paintings," Paul finished pointing to Jason and Justin as he said the last sentence.

Paul gave the address to the driver and settled back in the seat.

Jason and Justin were wide eyed as they entered the restaurant. "My god, look at that chandelier-it's beautiful!” Jason said.

The four were led to a table set back from the rest of the room. Brian took a quick look at the menu and kicked Paul under the table. When Paul looked up, Brian mouthed 'sea urchins'. Then he took the wine list in hand while the rest took up the menus.

Justin exclaimed, "Hey, they have escargots. I've never had them. Wonder if I could pull a Julia Roberts?" he laughed.

"Do you guys mind if I order the appetizers? I'd like for you all to try some new things while we are here." Paul asked.

"Hey, knock yourself out," Jason said.

As the waiter came back to the table with water, Brian gave him the wine order and Paul ordered escargot, sea urchin, and bruchette.

As the delicacies came, the younger guys looked with interest at the offerings then at their respective partners. Jason asked, "So have you guys had these interesting looking morsels before?"

Brian looked over at Paul and said, "Yeah, when we were in school, Paul won an award for a presentation and decided to take Linds and me out at a fancy restaurant. He ordered these appetizers. None of us had been to restaurant like this before."

"So, I guess since you ordered them again, you must have liked them," Justin asked.

"Oh yeah. Here let me give you a taste of sea urchin," Brian told Justin as he placed a part of the urchin in Justin's mouth. Paul did the same with Jason.

"That is a really interesting taste. Very good," said Jason.

Paul said, "I hear their salmon and their rack of lamb are some of the best in the city. Oh, try to save room for dessert."

As the four left the restaurant over two hours later, they looked in both directions. "Let's go north and just walk for awhile," Brian suggested.

"I cannot believe that we ate gonads," Jason said as he shook his head. "Though they were extremely tasty."

As they left the area, they walked up Broadway. They passed Dublin House Tap Room which was just beginning to fill up with young people.

"Ah, I see where I am going to pick up breakfast," Brian said as they passed H&H Bagels West. "We'll come back by here on the way home and everyone can pick what they want."

After passing Barnes and Nobles, they turned onto W. 83rd St. Justin bounced ahead when he saw the sign for the Children's Museum of Manhattan. "Brian, look. Gus would love this. We need to bring him here. Look at all they have for children to do," Justin said as he was reading what was listed on the building.

While Paul, Jason and Brian continued to look around the Museum, Justin continued walking and crossed the street to look into the window of a store on the next corner called Shoofly. Justin peered into the window. "Brian, come look at these hats and shoes. We need to come back and get some stuff for Gus."

Brian gave a long-suffering look to Paul and Jason. "Do you think I should just blindfold him now? Hey Justin, look across the street from where we are. Why don't we go in and see what's inside?"

Justin bounced back to where the others were standing. "OK, I'm all yours."

"Oh really?" Brian grabbed Justin around the neck and brought him in for a short kiss.

The four entered the Raccoon Lodge. "Think we'll see flannel shirts and funny hats?" Paul asked.

"Hey Brian and I will challenge you two to a game of pool."

"You're on," Jason said. "Drinks on the losers."

"Hope you have a lot of money, Paul" Brian quipped.

Later

As the waitress brought the drinks to the table, Brian looked over at Paul and said, "You didn't play that well when we were in school."

"Oh, didn't I tell you? Jason and I have our own pool table. We love to shoot pool whenever we have a chance, don't we, sweetie? Got our first one from a client we did a campaign for.”

Jason leaned over and kissed Paul on the ear, "Yep, I didn't know one end of the cue stick from the other when we met, but I've even beat him a few times."

"Yeah, just a few though."

"Yeah, but haven't you always told me you start little, but you aim big. I'm aiming real big with you."

"I believe they are worse than you are, Sunshine."

"Maybe so, but they sure are cute."

"Well, what is on tap for tomorrow?" Paul asked the group.

"I plan on shopping, I don't care about the rest of you," Brian answered quickly.

"As long as you buy me something, that's OK with me," Justin said. "I want to spend some time in the Guggenheim. They have a Robert Mapplethorpe exhibition and I want to pay particular attention to the contrasts he uses in his photographs. There is also a new work on loan from the Germany museum by Bill Viola one of my professors said I should see while I was here. He said it might help me in his class. I’ll do anything for a better grade…well, to a point, anything.”

Paul said, "I plan on meeting with some old friends tomorrow, so Jason you can go with me or go with Justin."

"I think I'd like to spend some time looking at some of the galleries and museums while I am here. The Guggenheim is a great place to start tomorrow because it has so many works by the artists I love like Gauguin and Leger. Justin tells me this exhibit includes works by Degas, Picasso and even van Gogh. I've never been close to the real thing before. It's not too often we get free time in a city like this that has so much. Oh and while we are here, I especially want to see where the two towers were. I'll never forget watching that day on TV,", Jason said holding onto Paul a little tighter.

Brian and Justin looked at each other. Justin took Brian's hand to his mouth and said, "Neither will I, Jason, neither will I." Brian looked at Justin and said, "Neither will WE."

The two couples scooted closer to each other, if that was possible.

"Why don't we go back by the bagel store on our way home and then meet for brunch at the Arsenal in the Park at 10:00. We need to get back as Justin and I have a little exploring to do once we're home."

Later that evening

As Brian locked the door behind him, he said, "Justin, do you still a have that same amount of energy that you had after dinner?"

"Sure, why?"

"Let's see if you can wear me out. Are you up for it?"

"Fuck, yeah. Where do you want to start?"

"Well, we only have the weekend to lay our scent in every room. You have first pick."

"Since we have to put the 'groceries' in the kitchen, why don't we start there? I want you to fuck me with your clothes on. I'm hard just thinking of it, Brian."

"Well Sunshine, I want to fuck you with your clothes off. So strip."

"Aren't you gonna help? Do I have to do everything myself?"

"Actually that was my thought exactly. When I said strip, I meant it, Justin. Do it, and do it slowly."

As Brian leaned against the kitchen counter, he watched Justin stop where he was and slowly slide to the floor. Justin pulled his knees to his chin then slowly slipped his shoes off. Then he pulled his right sock off, then his left and placed them inside his shoes and set them off to the side. His hands went up to his neck, and he rubbed his left hand over his neck, then his cheek, then through his hair. At the same time Justin took his right hand and placed it in his mouth, then looked up at Brian.

Brian groaned as he was watching Justin. He took his right hand and began rubbing the outside of his pants, up and down his hard-on. He licked his lips and closed his eyes feeling the sensations flow through his body as he watched Justin do exactly as he had asked.

Justin put both hands at his waist, then inside his sweater and pulled it up and over his head. He threw it over his shoes. He then shook his head and placed his hands through his hair. Then slowly, while looking at Brian and licking his lips, he began unbuttoning his shirt, starting at the top.

At the same time, Brian slowly unzipped his pants, reached in and took out his penis, never taking his eyes off of Justin. He took the small amount of precum from the tip and spread it down his shaft. Then he began stroking it, slowly but steadily.

As Justin got to the last button of his shirt, he shrugged if off his shoulders using a snake like maneuver to get it to slip off slowly. Justin then got on his knees and never taking his eyes off of Brian, he undid the button of his pants, then slowly got to his feet. As he walked slowly toward Brian, his zipper got lower and lower, so by the time he was across from Brian, he was slipping his pants off of his hips.

"Is it good for you, Brian?" Justin purred as he stepped out of his pants across from Brian.

"As if you can't see," Brian growled out as reached out for Justin's hand and placed it on his cock. "Could it be any harder, baby?"

Justin shuddered, then reached for Brian's face to pull it toward his lips. "Fuck me NOW, please!" He attacked Brian's mouth with a ferocity that surprised them both. Brian slipped his hands inside of Justin's underpants and pulled them off roughly. Justin stepped out of them, then turned to face the counter, tilting his ass up.

Brian reached inside his pants pocket, pulled out a condom and slipped it on.
"Allow me a few minutes to lube up this hole the non-lube way." He got on his knees and pulled Justin's cheeks apart and blew on Justin's hole then placed his tongue at the entrance. Justin's legs began to shake and Brian could hear him panting, trying not to clench his cheeks together with the sensations Brian was causing with his tongue.

"Brian, please hurry. I don't think I can last very much longer. I've waited all night for this."

Brian straightened up, kissing his way up Justin's back, placed his cock at Justin's hole and said, "I love you," as he quickly pushed in. Justin groaned but pushed back against Brian. Within a few stokes, Brian was reaching around Justin to pull on his cock. It only took a few strokes and Justin was coming over Brian's hand and on the kitchen cabinets. Brian, as he felt Justin's sphincter tightening around his cock, shot into the condom. Brian leaned over Justin, kissing his neck, then pulled out of Justin and threw the condom into the trashcan under the sink.

As they cleaned up, Justin looked up at Brian and asked, "Your turn. Where next?"

"I'm an old man and need a bit of a rest. Let's stretch out on the couch and see what's on TV. "

As they settled on the couch together, Justin nestled in Brian's arms, Brian took the remote off of the end table and turned the TV on. Channel after channel went past, then suddenly Justin placed his hand over Brian's and said-"Wait, go back."

Brian changed the channel back and there it was: Star Wars with Ewan McGregor. "Whooo Hoooo," Justin sang out. "I just LOVE Ewan. Let's watch this."

"OK, whatever you say, Justin."

Later, Brian slipped his hand underneath the jacket he had slipped over Justin's shoulders and began to caress his chest. He rubbed over Justin’s nipples and felt them harden under his fingertips. Justin moaned and cuddled closer. Brian pushed him down on the couch and knelt between his legs, kissing slowly up both legs.

He kissed the inside of Justin’s thighs then his balls. Brian felt Justin's feet moving underneath him and his fingers lacing through his hair. He tongued up Justin's shaft, then as he got to the tip, he looked up at Justin with lust in his eyes. He mouthed 'I love you' as he took all of Justin in his mouth.

Justin closed his eyes with the knowledge of what Brian had just said and the sensations he was feeling. He didn't hear those words from Brian very often and when he did, he reveled in the sensations they caused. "Brian, kiss me."

Brian kissed his way up Justin's torso, then grabbed his mouth in a hard kiss. Their tongues battled in each other's mouth, then Justin slithered out from under Brian, grabbed his cock and asked, "May I?"

"Actually, no. I want you to do something else for me."

"Yes?"

"Fuck me, baby."

Justin looked at Brian, then smiled his Sunshine smile. "Sounds good to me."

Justin got off the couch as Brian took off the rest of his clothes. Brian got back on the couch and knelt facing the back. Justin knelt on the floor, spread Brian's cheeks apart, blew on his hole then began tonguing him. Brian began moving his ass backwards toward Justin's mouth.

"Do it Justin, do it now."

Justin kissed his way up Brian's back. He placed the condom on his cock then added lube. After preparing Brian, Justin placed his cock at Brian's hole and pushed in quickly. Brian pushed back and groaned.

"Ohhh, yeah, that's it." Justin gave one last push and shot his load. He pulled out, took off the condom and placed it in the wastebasket next to the couch. He turned Brian around, knelt on the floor, and took Brian's cock in his mouth. It didn't take long for Brian to come. Justin swallowed all of the cum, then licked his lips and leaned up and kissed him.

"Let's go to bed. We have a long day planned for tomorrow. And we still have two more days here too."


Saturday morning

"Hey sleepyhead, let's get moving," Brian said to Justin as he stroked his morning hard-on.

"I believe I am moving. Are you?" Justin answered as he reached back and felt for Brian cock.

"Let's inaugurate the shower, shall we?"

"Sounds like a plan," Brian answered.

Later

"God, that was invigorating Brian. Can we try that at home?"

"Babe, if you are up for it, I sure am."

Brian and Justin dressed and grabbed the bagels and cream cheese on their way out the door. They walked across the street into Central Park and walked toward the Arsenal.

"Brian, do you think they'll be there before us?"

"Only if they didn't enjoy their shower as much as we enjoyed ours, Sunshine."

As they came up the Arsenal, all they saw were children and their parents. No Jason or Paul. Justin sat down on a bench outside the building and grabbed the bag from Brian.

"I'm hungry."

"So, what's new?"

Justin took one of the bagels out of the bag, spread some cream cheese on it and began eating. Brian grabbed a piece of Justin's bagel and put it in his mouth.

"Get your own, big boy." He looked behind Brian. "Hey look who's here!"

Paul walked up and took the bag from Justin's lap, looked inside and said, "If you had eaten the one I picked out, I would have had to spank you, Justin."

"Then I would have to bring him home, cause I know what spanking does to this one. You couldn't handle him."

"Hey, what about me? Do I fit in here somewhere?" Jason tapped Paul on the shoulder.

Paul put Jason in front of him and placed his chin on top of Jason's head. "You, my love, fit perfectly right here."

"Let's eat, then go feed the monkeys."

Brian smiled and said, "I thought we were doing that already."

Justin turned to Brian and stuck his tongue out. "Not funny."

After the four had finished and thrown the bag in the trash, they walked to the zoo.

They went first to see the bears and sea lions. When they got to the penguins, Justin took his sketch pad out of his backpack and sat down. "I have to sketch them, guys. Their coloring is perfect. If you want to go see the monkeys, I'll catch up with you there."

"Don't be long, Sunshine."

A few hours later, the four were dragging their feet as they made their way to Tavern of the Green to sit down and rest and, of course, get food for the boys.

"So let me get this straight. Brian, you are going shopping. Jason and Justin are going to the Guggenheim Museum. I plan on spending some time with some old friends and maybe go over our presentation one more time for Monday. We have the play tonight. Has anyone picked out a place to eat tonight?"

"Why don't you see what is close to the theater and make some reservations this afternoon. We'll eat whatever you pick," Brian suggested.

"How do you two feel about that?" Paul asked.

"I'll eat anything," Justin said.

With tongue in cheek, Brian said, "I'll vouch for that."

"You know what I like, Paul, so I agree with Brian. Pick out something," Jason said as he lightly placed his lips on his partner's.

Guggenheim Museum

"I have to sketch this building," Justin said as he got out of the car and looked at the building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

"This doesn't look like any museum in Ohio, does it Paul?"

"There is not another like it in the world. Jason, when you need to be picked up, just ring me and I'll get the car back to you," Paul said as he kissed Jason goodbye. "Have a good afternoon, you two."

As the boys got out of the car, they both looked back and waved at Paul as the car pulled away from the curb.

They entered the Museum and picked up a map.

"There is so much to see here! How are we going to get it all done today?" Jason asked.

"OK, let's spend some time now and make a game plan before we go any further. How about we do one exhibit you want, one I want, and then look at the time. If it's lunch time we can take a few minutes and eat and then spend the afternoon splitting time between the two of us. Maybe until about 4:00? That should give us time to get back, shower and get ready for tonight.

"Sounds like a plan. Let's look at that map now."

Brian shopping

The cab let Brian out at the corner of 57th and Park Avenues in front of Prada. 'Let's see what I can find in here' he said to himself. Two hours later, Brian was speaking with the head of customer service about when he could expect his purchases to be at the apartment. Brian shut his cell phone and said, "Yes, the housekeeper will be at the apartment at 4:00 today.”

As he was walking around the corner, Brian spotted a Mercedes Benz showroom. 'While I am here…'

Later, Brian walked out with two sets of keys in his hands. The salesman stood at the open door and said, "Mr. Kinney, we will have the car ready for you on Monday morning. And your other purchase will be at the address you gave us by the time you are home on Monday afternoon. Thank you very much for your business. Anything else you need or have questions about, please let me know."

Brian thought for a few minutes then walked back to the Prada store. He found the same service representative and told her to bring all the purchases to the Mercedes store so they could be packed in the car.

'So many stores, so little time,' Brian thought. He hailed a cab at the corner. "Versace on Madison." As he got out of the cab, he looked up the street, 'I won't have to go far for Armani. All my favorite stores almost all within walking distance of each other.

Later…
'Well, that was too much fun. I think I'll rest my feet and have a bit of lunch. Wonder what Justin and Jason are eating, or if they are so into the paintings, they have forgotten about food. Nah!'

"Matsuda on 5th Avenue.” Brian told the driver. 'I hope I'm not late for my 2:00 appointment. It was certainly hard to set it up. I've only heard about the fashions they have. If I can't find something for me, maybe I can find something for Justin. And then one last stop before I go back to the apartment. Moe Ginsburg, Italian designer extraordinaire. Can I break the piggy bank today?'

Brian stepped out of the Ginsburg store close to 4:00, caught a cab back to apartment. He let himself in to silence, but saw Justin's sketchpad on the table close to the door. 'If he's not eating, I'll bet he's asleep.'

He found him asleep in the master bedroom. 'Do I wake him up or go to sleep too?' Brian stripped down to his underwear and slid in the bed next to Justin, who sighed and snuggled in Brian's arms. 'I guess I nap' as he closed his eyes.

Sometime later, Brian woke to feather-like kisses showering his face. "I'm trying to wake up my prince. I heard kisses worked."

"Prince? I'm no prince, Sunshine, but I'm awake. How much time do we have? Enough for a shower together?"

"I'm there. Get your butt moving, old man." Justin said as he lightly slapped Brian on the butt.

"I'll old man you."

"That's what I am hoping."

In the shower, the boys began by soaping each other. But as usual, that led to touching which led to kissing which led to Brian turning Justin around to face the wall of the shower, "Grab your ankles, Sonny boy."

Justin smiled up at Brian, kissed him lightly on the lips, then turned around and grabbed his ankles. Brian grabbed the condom, then the lube, then grabbed Justin by the hips and slowly entered him. He reached around to Justin's chest and lifted him up so he could get to his lips. "Don't come Justin, I want to suck you off."

"I….I'll try nn…not to." Justin stuttered.

"You know what to do if you feel close."

Soon Brian gave one last thrust, then held himself inside Justin as he came. He withdrew from Justin and slid to the floor, turning Justin around as he did. He held Justin against the wall of the shower as he took him into his mouth. Brian took him all the way in, applied some suction, and heard Justin apologize as he shot.

"I couldn't hold off any longer, Brian," Justin said as he ended up on the shower floor with Brian.

As they lay with tangled arms and legs, Brian looked down at Justin and asked, "Does this remind you of an old movie? Of course you'd have to be Deborah Kerr cause I'd be Burt Lancaster."

"Are we talking about 'From Here to Eternity' and the scene on the beach? We're better than them."

"Well, we have just enough time to get ready before the car is here. I wonder what kind of food we'll have tonight?" Justin said.

As they walked out the front door, they saw the limousine waiting for them.

"Are you guys ever late?" asked Brian.

"Not if we can help it," Jason said.

"Well what's for dinner tonight?" Justin asked.

"Well, I thought we could try one of the restaurants close to the theater, then just walk to the theater since the weather is nice. I've not been here but have heard it was excellent," Paul said.

The limousine pulled up in front of The Firebird on 46th Ave., in the heart of restaurant row.

Brian said as he got out of the car, "This looks faintly Russian."

"Very good, Brian. That is exactly the cuisine."

"So we are talking caviar and vodka," Justin said.

"And that's just to begin with," Paul said.

Almost two hours later, the boys slowly exited slowly. "I'm glad we have to walk to the theater. I need to let some of this settle before I sit for hours. But that was a good pick, Paul," Brian said as he put his arm around Justin's shoulders.

They entered the St. James Theatre and as they settled in their seats, Justin turned to Paul and Jason and said, "Thank you both so much for letting us come with you tonight. I have wanted to see The Producers since it started."

Once outside after the play ended, Brian turned to Jason and Paul and said, "There is a great restaurant up the street a few blocks that has the best cheesecake in NYC. It'll give us a chance to stretch our legs.”

“Paul, I have to say thank you again. That play was even better than I thought it was going to be. I figured when Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane left, it wouldn’t be as funny, but I’m not sure when the last time was I laughed so much.” Justin said as they exited.

As the boys walked up to the restaurant Ben Ash, Jason and Justin were outside the window that housed all the desserts. "Sheesh, look at that cheesecake. I've never seen any that tall!, Jason said.

"These pieces are really big. Why don't we share between two of us."
"Sounds good."

While they were inside eating, the subject of what to do on Sunday came up.

"After sleeping late, I am taking this fine young man out for some sightseeing," Paul said as he fed some cheesecake to Jason. "Maybe we could meet up sometime after lunch. We could do the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island together?"

"Sounds good." Justin said.

Jason looked out the window, "Hey isn't that the limo?"

"Yep, let's go." Paul said as he pulled Jason out of his seat.

Sunday

Justin carried the tray into the bedroom and set it on the bedside table. He took a strawberry and rubbed it across Brian's lips. He swatted it away without opening his eyes. Justin rubbed it again while saying, "Open up.”

Brian opened his mouth and bit the strawberry. Justin popped the rest into his own mouth. "If you'll sit up, I'll feed you breakfast in bed."

"Only if I get to feed you a high protein breakfast when I'm done."

"Deal!"

****
Leaving the apartment

"Where do you want to start this morning?"

"I'd love to sit for a while at Grand Central Station and draw a bit. Do you have something you can do while I'm there?"

"I'll think of something."

*****
Brian returned an hour later to find Justin exactly where he had left him. "OK, your turn to pick something Brian," Justin said as he was packing up his sketchbook.

"Let's go see the Empire State Building. I want to take you to the top and show you the world."

"Brian, you have already shown me the world and I love you for it."

Later, as the two lovers looked over the city in each others arms, Justin turned to Brian and said, "I couldn't be happier Brian."

"Neither could I. OK, Justin your turn."

"Brian there is soooo much to do and see here. There are hundreds of galleries that I haven't stepped foot into yet. But I also want to buy some souvenirs for everyone. Can we go back to that store we passed the first night to get some things for Gus?

Later in the afternoon

"OK, do we have enough now, Justin?" Brian whined loaded down with packages. "We need to meet Paul and Jason soon."

"All right Brian, let's go. You've taken care to get these back to the apartment?"

"Yes, dear."

On their way downtown, Justin craned his head back and forth trying to see everything he could. "See how many galleries there are, Brian? Someday I will have my own show in one of these.”

"I don't think we'll have to wait too long," Brian said as he captured Justin's mouth with his. "But you know when that happens, we won't have a minute alone cause everyone else will be up here too."

"We'll find time. I'll make sure of it."

As they exited the car at Battery Park, they saw Paul and Jason waving from the ferry. "We've got your tickets. Come on," Jason yelled.

"Thanks, so much to do and so little time," Brian huffed as they leapt onto the boat.

Justin asked, "What did you guys do this morning?"

"We walked and walked. It was such a beautiful morning, we just window shopped and enjoyed each other's company. Remember, we have a few more days here."

"Oh yeah. We did the Empire State Building, I sketched in Grand Central Station and then we went souvenir shopping. That's why we're late. I just kept seeing one more thing to buy," Justin said.

"Paul says he has a surprise for us after this."

"Oh, what?"

Paul looked over, "If I said, it wouldn't be a surprise would it?" Brian and Paul shared a look.

"Mmmm, I wonder if I can get it out of Brian. It looks like he knows," Justin said to Jason.

"I wouldn't spend your time on it, Justin. Neither will say a word if they don't want to."

"You're right. I'll just enjoy the day."

As the four finished the tour and got on the ferry, Brian and Paul stood talking at the rail. Justin and Jason took seats, got out the ever-present sketch pads and began drawing their partners with the Statue in the background. By the end of the trip, both had drawn each other's partner with the same backdrop, signed their work and traded.

"Someday this could be worth something," Jason said to Justin.

"Could go either way Jason."

As the four stepped onto the walkway, Brian turned to Paul and said, "OK, so I will see the three of you a bit later?"

"You can bet on it," Paul said as he clapped a hand on Brian's shoulder.

"Hey, where are you going?" Justin yelled after a retreating Brian.

"You'll find out later, Sunshine. You have a treat in store now so enjoy it." Brian waved at the group and entered a parked limousine.

"Yep guys, our chariot await," Paul said. They entered another limousine and went to the Liberty Heliport. Both boy's eyes got big. They looked at each other, then at Paul.

"I've reserved a helicopter for us for an hour. All aboard," Paul said as he pushed them along from behind.

The three settled in, put on the headgear and strapped themselves in. "Why didn't Brian come with us? " Justin asked.

"He told me he'd never been in a helicopter before and didn't want today to be his first time. Something about not wanting to get sick in front of anybody," Paul said.

"That's too bad, because he is missing the trip of a lifetime." As the trip continued, the three and the pilot kept the conversation going almost non-stop.

"Honey, that was the highlight of this whole weekend. I'm not sure anything can beat this. Thanks so much," Jason said as he got out of the helicopter and hugged and kissed his partner. "Justin was right, Brian missed out big time."

"New York City is wonderful from down here, but incredible from the air. Thanks so much, Paul. I'll never forget this," Justin said as he hugged Paul.

"OK, we are off," Paul said as they got into the limousine.

"Where are we going, Paul?" Justin asked as the car got under way.

"Another surprise, Sunshine. Brian just gave me an address and said he would meet us there," Paul said.

"Brian didn't tell you what he was doing, just where he wanted you to take us. And you can't tell me anything about it???" Justin moaned

"That's it, Justin. But all your questions will be answered shortly I do believe," Paul said and smiled.

The limousine made its way not far from where they just left.

"Do you know if what is planned includes food?" Justin asked

"He didn't say, but we will find out soon enough."

As the limousine drove into Chelsea, Justin began to look out the window somewhat anxiously. "This looks familiar. I was here before a year or so ago."

The limousine pulled in front of a small hotel. Paul opened the door and stepped out and held his hand out for Jason and Justin. As Justin got out of the car, he looked up to the building and grimaced. The three walked inside and into the elevator and got off at the third floor. Paul looked at the room numbers and then at Justin.

"Do you remember the room number, Justin?"

"Will one of you tell me what are we doing here?" Jason asked.

"Sweetheart, you will know soon enough," Paul answered.

Justin turned to the left and stood in front of room 304 and just as he raised his arm to knock, the door opened and there stood Brian in a white terry cloth robe. "Come on in."

Justin red-faced looked back at Jason and Paul, "I think he means all three of us."

As they entered the room, Justin noted that the room was filled with flowers and food and wine. As he got closer, he noticed that the food was exactly what he had gotten when he had run to New York after Brian threw him out of the loft.

He looked back at Brian with a question in his eyes. "Sunshine, this is the anniversary of a little jaunt we took a few years ago. We came separately, but ended up together here. You do remember, don't you?"

"Uh, yeah. I don't think I will ever forget."

"And may I ask what we are doing here?" Paul inquired.

"Yeah, this was a defining moment in our lives. We are going to spend some time with friends in this place."

"Nice spread," Jason said as he went over to the table and helped himself to a chocolate-dipped strawberry.

"I have some business to take care of with this one. I have placed robes, wine and anything else you might need in the bathroom. The water should be just about right by now. If you would please take your places in there and enjoy the jacuzzi. By the time you both are finished, so will we. Then we can all relax and enjoy the rest of the night. I have reserved the suites on both sides so we can make as much noise as we want"

"Sounds good to me. Let's go, my love," Paul said to Jason as he took his hand and led him to the bathroom just inside the front door. As the door closed, Paul turned to Jason and held him against the door. As his hand went from his lips to his chin to his neck to the top button of his shirt, his mouth was inches from Jason's, he said, "Make love to me."

With that Jason grabbed Paul's head and devoured his mouth while unbuttoning his shirt. Paul was working Jason's pants down off his hips. The men were running their hands over the other's body until they were both weak in the knees. Jason was moving Paul backward toward the tub. As his knees hit the side, Paul sat down. He ran his hand in the water.

"Brian was right. The water is perfect." They slid in.

***

Brian looked at Justin and asked, "Need some help?"

Justin smiled and placed his hands at his side. Brian began slowly running his hands up under Justin's sweater across his chest and nipples. As he touched them, Justin gasped and arched toward Brian. His mouth found Brian's and his tongue slid into Brian's mouth. Both moaned, then Brian pulled away and slipped Justin's sweater off his head.

"Take off the rest." As Justin slipped off his pants, Brian shed his robe. Justin sat on the foot of the bed and looked as Brian made his way over to him. He reached over and turned the volume of the music up.

"You know what comes next, don't you Sunshine?"

"Some of the hottest sex we ever had?" Justin said with a smile.

It was just like it was when Brian found him in this very room, what seemed so long ago to both of them. They were just as eager now to get as close to each other and devour each other as they had at that time. Brian attacked Justin's mouth as Justin's hands roamed over as much of Brian's skin as he could get to. Brian moved to Justin's chest, then navel, then his pubic hair, then looked up as Justin gazed down as he took Justin in his mouth. Justin's head went back against the bed and his mouth opened as he moaned out loud. Brian worked his way back up carrying Justin's legs with him.

With Brian just inches away from Justin's face, he said, "There was something I didn't say with words last time we were here, but I always hoped you knew. Don't ever leave me, Justin."

Justin took Brian's face in his hands and said, "I never said it in words when we were here last either, but I always hoped you knew. Thanks for caring enough to come and get me." Then Brian entered Justin and it was like being transported back in time.

***
"The music suddenly got louder, I wonder what is going on with the boys?" Paul said as Jason nipped at his ear.

"You have to ask? We just need to be ready to leave when it gets turned down. What are you waiting for, my good man?"

"Have I told you lately that I love you?" Paul said as he fanned his hands over Jason's chest.

"Not since we got in the tub. Why don't you show me?" He rose up just a bit and came back down on Paul's erect penis. "God, I love how you love me."

***
"Do we have to get up Brian?" Justin moaned as they lay tangled in the bed.

"Yep, unless we want our friends to be shriveled up like prunes."

"I had almost forgotten about them. I'll go knock on the door."

"I'll just turn the music down. They'll get the hint. Put on your robe and let's dance."

As Paul and Jason came out of the bathroom, they found Brian and Justin dancing with their arms around each other. They looked up, smiled then Justin said, "We hoped you enjoyed your time together as much as we did."

"You can bet on it. Now what's here to eat? I'm starved," Jason said as he looked around at the food on the different tables.

"If I remember correctly, there is a little bit of everything," Justin said as he glanced at Brian.

Jason looked at Justin, "If you remember correctly…I thought Brian ordered all this."

"He did. It's a long story. Let's fill our plates and I'll fill you in on the saga about ' the twink who ran away'."

As the four settled in the living room with plates of food, Justin leaned against Brian and said, "You saw Brian's loft and what he has in it, right?" Jason and Paul nodded. "Well, when I first went to live with Brian, it was pretty soon after we met and my father had kicked me out. Brian came home one day and I guess I had forgotten to set the alarm…"

"Forgotten, Sunshine?" Brian asked pointedly.

"He found everything gone…"

"Paul would have killed me." Jason muttered.

"I thought Brian was going to do something like that. Michael, his best friend, calmed him down enough so that all he did was tell me to get the hell out. So I did, but I didn't know where to go, so I borrowed his credit card…"

"Borrowed, Sunshine?" Brian chuckled.

"And caught a plane up here and found this place and pretty much bought all the food you see in front of you tonight. I just lay in bed watching TV and eating and early the next morning, lo and behold, who should come knocking on my door?"

"The Big Bad Wolf?" Paul quipped.

“Well, he certainly didn't look like Little Red Riding Hood," Justin said as he smiled up at Brian, touching his cheek softly. "But he did look amazingly like my knight in shining armor. Until he walked in that door, I thought it just might have been the police to arrest me. My heart was racing a mile a minute.” I've never been so glad to see anyone in my life"

Brian fingered Justin's hair then said, "I just wish I would have found out about his leaving without everyone else knowing about it. Everyone kept telling me what I should do, but I had already decided to come get him. Then they all decided it should be a party and I ended up bringing Michael, Emmett and Ted. In my jeep, 5 hours on the road with those guys. I thought I would go crazy."

"Going back wasn't too bad though, was it, Brian?" Justin smiled, a faraway look in his eyes.

"Gotta admit, having you in my lap all the way home made the way pleasant. Though I wish none of us would have had to go through it. But it made me realize one thing; it was empty without you. Not that I would have admitted that to anyone. It was the first time I realized that you added something to my life. I just didn't know what it was then."

Brian leaned over and placed his forehead against Justin's. Justin kissed Brian on the lips gently, "I love you."

Brian looked in Justin's eyes and nodded.

"Paul, when did you realize Jason meant something to you?" Brian asked.

"Mmmmm…I think I knew before he did. Getting him to realize that I wasn't just out to jump his bones, but wanted a future with him."

"I agree. I was young. This was my first job and I wanted to do well in it. I could feel his attraction, but I also knew being the new kid in the department, I was going to be scrutinized."

"I should have been smarter about how I went after Jason, but my feelings were eating me alive. I tried to be everywhere he was, not realizing that others would notice,." Paul said. Justin caught Brian’s eye and smiled.”

"Gee, that sounds like someone else I know." Brian said as he knocked gently on the back of Justin’s head.

"He was instrumental in bringing in two very large accounts the first year or so he was there, so he was promoted to head of the department."

"Paul was oblivious that others in the department that were overlooked while a relative youngster was promoted over them. People were talking and making comments that all you had to do was sleep with the boss to get a position. It was so disheartening that I left a letter of resignation the Friday after I was given the promotion on Paul's desk. I thanked him for giving me a start in what I knew I wanted to do the rest of my life, but I needed to make it on my own."

"I had been out all that day, came in to see that letter laying on my desk and my heart dropped. I went by his area and all his stuff was gone. I called his cell phone and got his voice mail. I called his apartment and got a recording that the number had been disconnected. By this time, I was going out of my mind. So I got in the car in the pouring rain and started to his place. My car broke down a couple of blocks away and I got out and ran in the rain. I started beating on his door but heard nothing. So I slid down to the floor and held my head in my hands. All I could think of was that I didn't get a chance to tell him how I felt before he left."

"I opened the door to see this soaked miserable looking man sitting outside my door and realized how much he really cared for me. I invited him in, told him to take a shower and warm up. While he was in there, I made some tea and carried a cup into him and find him in the shower crying. Broke my heart. So I got in with him and we made love for the first time that night."

“It wasn't easy at work at the beginning, but the staff I have now knows we have positions because we have earned them."

"Brian, what did it take for you? What was that mantra you had in college: no apologies, no regrets. It doesn't look like you feel the same way now." Paul commented.

"I tried to hold on to that for almost too long. My defining moment came the night I tried to kill myself."

Justin gasped and turned to Brian. "What?"

"I never told you. Mikey found me and told me that I was 'Brian Kinney for fuck's sake.’ It was then I decided I had a better use for that silk scarf I had bought that afternoon."

"This is the prom?" Paul asks.

"Yep, Justin's prom. When we danced that night, I knew I couldn't be happier. I wanted everyone to know how I felt, so I kissed him in front of everyone that night. As we stood by my car, I came this close," as Brian holds his thumb and index finger very close together, "to telling him I loved him. I left him in the garage thinking that I would go home and light some candles and get a bottle of champagne and tell him how I felt when he got there after bringing his friend home."

"But as I walked away from his car, a boy from my school came up behind me and hit me with a bat. I still don't remember everything about that night and I don't remember the dance at all, but I know that it was a pivotal point for Brian and me. We both changed, not all for the good. I couldn't remember all of it and Brian couldn't forget any of it. But we didn't talk about it to each other or anyone else. That was our first mistake. That was a rough time for us. We were living together but sliding further and further apart."

Brian picked up right where Justin left off. "I tried to give him everything I thought he needed, but I was unwilling to change anything in myself. We did things together, but we didn't talk. And I pushed Justin to do things I knew he really didn't want to do, but did because he loved me. I just couldn't even admit to myself how much I cared for him, let alone tell him anything. Work was a bitch and we spent less and less time together. Then I made partner, but by this time we were living together but not really together.”

Justin picked up Brian's hand and held it tightly, " I met someone who gave me what Brian wouldn't. I refused to see that everything Brian was doing was screaming how much he cared. All I could see was I was missing something. The words became so important, so I had another relationship for a short time. Finally I realized that words mean little, while actions mean a lot. Thank god that Brian didn't give up on me, when I gave up on us."

"Once we were back together, we did talk to someone about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and found out we both suffered from it. It bothered me that Justin could only remember what happened in the garage, and not the romance of the dance itself. It was like I became someone I had never been before, but it was for nothing. Once we worked through some of this and began talking about it, we came to the point we are now."

"I have to admit, I'm glad that we haven't gone through something that intense.” Jason said. “Though Paul meeting my family and asking for my hand was pretty intense wasn't it?"

"Let's get something to drink and eat and you can tell them all about it." The guys got up from where they were, stretched and filled their glasses and plates again. As they settled back on the couches, Paul placed Jason between his legs as they stretched out on the couch.

Paul sipped his drink while he ran his fingers on Jason's cheek and neck. "I fell for this one the first time I laid eyes on him. He walked into my office with his portfolio and presented himself as someone my firm could use. He was 18 at the time, but if I hadn't read his resume and cover letter, I would have thought he was much older. He was certainly more mature than the usual 18 year old."

"Yeah, I know what you mean about mature twinks," Brian said as he ran his fingers through Justin's hair.

"Even though he was just one of many in the art department, his work was heads above any of the others. I saw that and the others in the department saw that, but that didn't stop them from being jealous and gossiping."

"And we all know how I reacted to that," Jason said as he kissed Paul's palm.

"I kept my distance, though I know Jason could feel the same tension I did when we were in the same room together. After the first campaign that we won using his designs, I invited him out to celebrate. By the way, Brian, that was the first account Ryder lost to us."

"Though not the last…" Jason smirked.

"But he refused the invitation. I didn't push, though I wanted to. Then later that year we won another account with his designs. I asked him out to celebrate again. He didn't say no this time. But the night I wanted to be just the two of us ended up being everyone who had a part in the campaign. Didn't realize until then what a little strategizer he was."

"I had always planned on being head of an art department. Knowing I wanted it to be this one just made me think ahead of what I needed to do to make it happen. That's why I kept Paul at arm’s length for so long. That, and knowing what people were saying behind our backs."

"Jason invited me to his family's 4th of July party. I didn’t know what to expect. He had told me his family was accepting of his lifestyle, but I had to wonder how they would look at me, being so much older than Jason."

"My parents always loved Brian….NOT!" Justin said. "Dad disowned me, tried to kill Brian twice and now won't have anything to do with me. Mom tried to keep us apart, but has come to finally see that we are good together. She's not perfectly fine with it, but accepts him as part of my life."

"Paul didn't know that I had told my parents how I felt about him. So when he came for the 4th of July, he got grilled by both of my parents. I know he was confused because I certainly hadn't let anything show at work. As we were getting ready for bed that night, he was telling me some of the questions my parents were asking him; things like 'how much money my company was making, what kind of house I had, what kind of plans did I have for my future.'"

"I realized then that I had to tell him that I had told my parents that I thought I was falling in love with him. I'll never forget how he looked when I said that." Jason looked at Paul. Paul smiled at Jason then gave him a look of astonishment. "Yeah, that's the look. Well, we ended up in each others’ arms that night, not for the first time but in my parents’ house. That sure was different."

"What a trip. One of the few times I get the man of my dreams in my arms and we are in his parents’ home. But….it certainly didn't stop us-just kept us quieter than usual. The next day before we left, I asked his parents if I could have their son’s hand in commitment."

"To say we were all shocked would be an understatement. We had made love for the second time the night before, and he's asking my parents for my hand? But they did give us their blessing that day and have accepted him fully as my partner. We've done a lot together in the last few years."

"Maybe we'll have that too someday," Brian said.

"Hey, we have a lot of people who love and accept us and we do things with. It doesn't matter it's not your blood kin or mine. We have family," Justin said as he looked into Brian's eyes and kissed him softly.

"Well, any other big moments in your lives that defined your relationship?" Paul asked.

"There have been so many moments in my life that have made me realize that Brian was my other half. Getting him to realize that has taken a bit longer, hasn't it, Brian?"

"Maybe, but at least I do now."

"Yeah. He had to put up with me 'stalking' him for months right after we met. He had to put up with my family trying to kill him. He had to put up with his friends trying to keep him the same self-serving bastard that he had been before we met; they just couldn't or wouldn't see that he was changing. He had to put up with me feeling sorry for myself and taking it out on him. Thankfully, he realized we were supposed to be together. I can think of one major thing that happened that affected us both, I'm not sure who the most. But I can say our relationship hasn't been the same since."

Brian tightened his arms around Justin. "September 11th?"

"Yeah. Brian was in Boston with an account and was supposed to leave that morning for Los Angeles for another account. I went to school that morning and just about got sick when I heard what had happened in New York. Then when I heard that the planes had originated in Boston, all I could think of was where Brian was. Of course cell phones were not working so I was going out of my mind. Then I got one of my bad migraines on top of everything. Everyone was at Deb's, the woman you all met at the diner, kind of my second mom. I spent a lot of time by myself crying and worrying."

Brian took up the story. "I walked into Deb's house at almost 4:00am after driving almost 12 hours practically non-stop. All I could think of was to get home and see Justin. I remember walking into the house and looking around and seeing everyone but Justin sleeping in Deb's living room. I figured Justin was in his old bedroom so I went in and woke him up."

"Yeah he woke me and everyone else at the same time. They all tromped upstairs interrupting us and demanded answers. He insisted to the others that he and I were going to spend some time alone before he would tell the story. Finally we went downstairs, and he explained to everyone that he had been in the air when the planes flew into the Trade Centers and because they closed all air space, they landed in St. Louis. Couldn't get to a phone, cell wouldn't work, so he decided to stay at a hotel. But on the way he saw a used car lot, bought a car and drove, stopping only for gas."

Brian continued, "It wasn't until later that I realized that if I had left the hotel and gotten to the airport when I should have that Tuesday morning, I would have been on the plane that hit the second tower. It was then I realized what I could have lost. It's one thing to realize you care for someone maybe for the first time in your life. It's another when you are faced with losing that same person without telling them how you feel. And it still took me time to say the words."

Paul and Jason had remained silent through the entire story, looking at each other once in a while. Jason finally spoke up and said, "That day was the second time I ever saw Paul cry."

"Oh my gosh, what happened? Did you lose someone in New York?"

"One of my best junior execs. I was planning on promoting him too. He went to pitch a campaign and before he flew home on Tuesday, he planned on surprising his brother for breakfast. He knew his brother came to work early to beat the traffic, so he planned on getting up to his office about 8:30 then catching a flight home around 11:00. At least that is what he told his secretary on Monday. They never found anything of him or his brother. They think the plane came in almost right into his office."

"He blamed himself for sending him up there for the account. It was a tough time for us. He was not easy to be around at work or at home," Jason said as the two of them pressed their cheeks together and held on to each other a little tighter.

"I have an idea. Let's get up early in the morning and see the sun rise where the Trade Centers were. Then we can eat breakfast then let you guys take care of business. I have a little surprise for Sunshine in the morning, too."

"What? What, did you buy me something?"

"No, I bought ME something. But, you'll be the first to see it."

"Then why is it a surprise FOR me, if you bought it FOR you?"

"You know I'm too tired to even know how to answer that. Hey Paul, why don't you and Jason stay here?"

"I really don't relish the thought of sleeping on the couch The bed may be queen size but, no thanks."

"No, I paid for the rooms on either side of us, so we could make whatever noise we wanted to. So take your pick. The keys are on the side table."

"Thanks. So we will see you both in a few hours. I'll have the driver be here at 6:30. Shouldn't take us long from here."

"Good night.” Jason said as he yawned.

****
The next morning

There was hot coffee in the limousine. "This was a good thought," Brian said as he added sugar. Both Jason and Justin had brought their sketch pads. As they got out of the car and walked up to the observation area, the sun was just rising in the east and casting pink and orange highlights to everything. The boys sat next to each other and began drawing.

"Two peas in a pod," Paul said as he stood next to Brian gazing over the boys’ heads to the area beyond them. Brian nodded his head yes and kept looking at lower New York.

"I sometimes wish I had a crystal ball and could know what the future holds. It's hard sometimes, changing from not really giving a shit about anything to realizing that you have something now you don't want to lose. I get scared I'll admit, not knowing if it's going to be gone tomorrow. I wonder if in order for us to have the best chance, we should move somewhere else. Here, maybe"

"I know where you are, Brian. I was there a few years ago myself. But seeing the two of you together and hearing what you both had to say last night about your time together, I don't think you have anything to worry about. However, if you are ever truly contemplating changing locations, I’d make you partner in a heartbeat and put your other half to work with Jason. We couldn’t be beat.”

"Maybe that would actually get you to stop trying to get him up there…"

“That will be the only thing that will stop me from trying to get him to at least see our company and spend some time with us.”

“I may have to do something about this.”

"Like what, Brian?”

"Maybe I'll come up there and take some business from you."

"You really think you can?"

"I know I can."

"You guys quit squabbling. Sheesh, can't an artist draw without having to hear people arguing over him?" Justin said as he looked back and smiled at Brian.

"Sunshine, you about done?" We need to get some breakfast and we have an appointment at 9:00 this morning for that surprise I told you about."

"Yeah, that surprise that is for me but really for you. Still can't figure that one out."

The boys got up and put their sketchpads away. They walked off the observation area onto the sidewalk.

After breakfast, the four got into the car. Paul asked, "Where can we drop you both off?"

"Yeah, Park and E. 56th. Thanks."

"What the hell is there Brian?" Justin asked.

"Patience Grasshopper, patience. In time all will become clear."

The car stopped in front of the Mercedes-Benz showroom behind a black ML350 Light Truck.

"What are we stopping here for?"

Ignoring Justin, Brian said, "Well guys, I, for one, have had a great weekend here in New York. Thanks for the play, and dinner, and the most excellent company."

"Let's do this again soon, Jason." Justin said.

"Keep in touch, Justin. It's been fun." (Jason said as he gave Justin a hug.

Brian and Justin linked hands as Paul and Jason got back into the car, "Good luck, you two. Knock them dead."

"OK, Brian, what is this all about?"

"This," pointing to the car in front of them, "is my new car. We will be driving home in it, so get your bubble butt in the front seat."

"This is….new car….going home….now….in it?"

"Get in Justin, and put on your seat belt. If you are a good boy, I might let you drive it on the way home.”

Justin got in the passenger side as Brian talked to a man just inside the showroom. They shook hands and Brian got in and drove off.

"If I wasn't so tired, I'd probably have a lot of questions for you, but I guess they can wait until we get home."

"That's a first. Why don't you get some rest. We are both going to be busy when we get home catching up."

Five hours later

"Justin, wake up. We're almost home. Justin….wake up."

"OK quit that. I'm awake." Justin stretched and wiped the sleep from his eyes and looked around him. "You drove the whole way without waking me?"

"You looked like you could use it. I just wanted to get home. I'd rather sleep in my own bed."

As they pulled up to the building on Tremont Street, Justin noticed there was a black Mercedes SLK32 AMG Convertible parked right in front of Brian's building. "Who's car is that?"

"That Sunshine, is my new car."

"I thought you said THIS was your new car."

"I did, but I lied. This is actually your new car. And the car we will use when it is more than the two of us, like when we have Gus or…family." Brian held up the keys then picked up Justin's hand and placed the keys in the palm and closed his fingers around them.

Justin's eyes got big. "My new car. This is MY new car!?" As Brian turned to smile at Justin, Justin jumped into Brian's lap, threw his arms around his neck and kissed him.

"I need to buy you things more often if this is how I get thanked."

"What about the jeep?"

"They drove that one here and took the jeep as trade-in."

"Get out, I want to drive MY new car."

"Don't you think we need to unpack and unwind a bit before we make any other plans?"

"No." Justin looked at Brian's crestfallen face, then back at the car, back at Brian.

"Oh, all right. But as soon as we unpack and unwind, I get to take it out for a spin. OK?"

"Anything to make you happy. Now let's get this stuff upstairs and you can thank me properly."

"Deal."

Finis-at least until I go to Europe this summer and write about some of the sights there. So look for another story about this time next year.

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