Author's Comments: The next three chapters take place on the same day, and this chapter is little longer than usual. I just wanted to warn you. I hope you'll forgive me. I hope you like the chapter. Lois, thank you for the beta...you are the greatest!
Chapter 13 – Suggestions The Next Morning…(Day 18) Brian could hear the coffee grinder being put in to service, so he ventured out into the kitchen area of the loft. He noticed that the coffee brewer had been started, but there was no Justin in sight. Sounds of rustling in the storage area could be heard once again, and Brian just laughed and shook his head in acceptance. A few minutes later, Justin appeared carrying a small box. “Justin, I realize this is a stupid question, but how much stuff did you put in the storage area?” Brian asked with a laugh. “Why do you ask?” “Because every opportunity you’ve had lately, you seem to pull something else out. It just seems endless. Did you leave anything in your apartment in New York?” Brian continued to tease. “I just know how much you hate clutter.” “Yeah, well…” “Look Brian, when I was high school and staying a Debbie’s, I used to move stuff into the loft all the time. I did it by moving in a few items at a time,” Justin started to explain. “Well I know I never saw you move in…but you always seem to have everything here that you needed. I always wondered about that,” Brian remembered. “See it worked. You would have freaked if I had moved everything in at once,” Justin teased, leaning in to give Brian a gently kiss for emphasis. “Probably. I did notice that every time you moved out though, you always had this big duffle bag. I always wondered where everything came from, and how it got here.” “Now you know.” “So how much stuff is now left in the storage area?” “Not much. Most of what I need is already at the house. I’m leaving some clothes here though.” “Justin, tell me I’m not going to be missing my shirts again?” “What?” Justin asked with complete innocence. “Tell me you’re not stealing my shirts again. When you went to New York I accused the cleaners of losing them. I was going to have my lawyer sue the cleaners. Then I visited your apartment in New York, and I found out where the errant shirts happened to be.” “What do you mean?” Justin asked, feigning complete innocence again. “Why can’t you be like Lindsay and other artists and simply wear a smock? I thought artists liked to paint in smocks and maybe even berets.” “I’m unique. I like to wear your shirts,” Justin said, gently kissing Brian. “Explain something else to me, will you?” “Huh? “How is it that you live in cargo pants and tee shirts on a day-to-day basis? You wear them anywhere you can get away with. You protest when I try to dress you in designer labels. I just don’t understand,” Brian said, shaking his head. “Is there a point here, Brian?” Justin asked, standing with his one hand on his hip. Brian continue, “But when you decide to paint, you have to wear my Armani shirts…need I mention my Armani shirts that are going to get paint all over them! Doesn’t this seem a bit backward to you?” “You’re always complaining about my lack of interest in designer shirts. So…well.” “Justin.” “It isn’t that they’re designer shirts…I like to paint in YOUR shirts…especially when I was in New York…because then YOU didn’t seem so far away,” Justin said quietly. “So now that you’re here…my shirts are safe? Is that what you’re telling me?” “Well, I wouldn’t go that far. Now I’ve gotten used to wearing them. I’m not sure I can paint without wearing one of your shirts,” Justin explained. “Well we can’t have that now, can we?” Brian said with a laugh, leaning up to give Justin a kiss. The coffee had finally finished brewing. Brian and Justin were each leisurely enjoying a cup. Justin believed he was dressed and ready to go to Kinnetik to check on the status of the boards for the Belluss Occhiali/Eyeconics’ campaign. “Justin, do me a favor?” Brian asked quietly. “Sure.” “I know it’s asking a lot, but do you suppose that you could wear something else beside cargo pants to Kinnetik, especially if you are going to boss my art department around.” “And, what would you suggest?” Brian walked into the bedroom and returned with an suit bag, which he handed to Justin. “Here. Try this.” Justin reacted as if the suit bag was contaminated. “Brian, I’m not wearing a suit. I’m an artist, remember.” “Will you stop being a princess? It’s not a suit. Gus and I went shopping yesterday. He complained that I never buy you any NICE clothes. So he made me buy you an outfit. He picked it out himself.” “Gus picked it out?” Justin said with a smile, finally accepting the clothes from Brian. Justin unzipped the bag to examine the contents. “Hmmm, Gus has good taste. I’m going to try these on,” Justin said with a smile. In a few minutes, Justin returned dressed in his new outfit. Gus had chosen midnight blue Armani slacks with a corresponding lighter blue sweater. “Gus has really good taste!” Justin repeated, modeling the new outfit for Brian. “Of course, he has good taste! He’s my son, and unlike some people, he has actually liked wearing designer labels ever since he was a baby,” Brian pointed out. “Gus mentioned something about the color would set off your eyes.” Justin leaned in to kiss Brian. “I’m obviously going to have to find some unique way to say thank you to Gus, aren’t I?” Justin continued kissing Brian’s neck and shoulder. “You know, you could show your gratitude to me, and then I could relay the message to Gus for you,” Brian suggested with a smirk. “We’ll have to talk about this later. I have to get going,” Justin said with a smile. “Later.” “Later.” *** “Cynthia, I’m on my way to the art department to check on the artwork for the campaign,” Justin announced. “Everyone was so busy yesterday trying to get everything finished. How was your trip to Cincinnati?” Cynthia asked. “Good. I’m going to be part of the emerging artist’s exhibit for the opening of the new wing in a few months.” “That’s great Justin!” “Yes. I’m pretty excited about it. That will be two shows back to back, so I have to get busy painting. Well my studio is all set up at the house, and I promised Brian I would actually go in there and paint today. So I better get down to the art department and check on things.” “Sounds like a good idea.” As Justin was leaving Cynthia’s office, Susan Weaver arrived. She was alone this time. “Cynthia, I know I was just here yesterday, but is Brian available?” Susan asked. “He’s not in yet,” Cynthia explained, trying to understand why Susan was back again so soon. “Cynthia do you know who’s directing the art for our campaign?” “Did you talk to Brian?” “He just said it was someone special. They were supposedly out of town yesterday, so I couldn’t meet them. Do you know who it is?” “Susan, you know I’m not a liberty to discuss it with you.” “I know. I know. But the suspense in killing me.” “You’ll have to talk to Brian.” “Isn’t there anything you can tell me?’ “Let’s just say that you were extremely fortunate to have this person working on your campaign. He and Brian work well together. Brian is pleased. So I think that you will be pleased too.” “And that’s all you’re going to tell me?” “Pretty much!” Cynthia said with a laugh, thoroughly enjoying this conversation. “Well ok, I’m going back to my office and let you get back to work. I’ll see you in two weeks,” Susan said, preparing to leave. Then she turned back. “Oh, Cynthia. We don’t have to mention this visit to Brian do we? There’s no reason for him to know how anxious I am.” Cynthia laughed, “Susan, he knows already knows how anxious you are. But I think we can omit telling him that you were here.” Susan let out a sign of relief, as she said her goodbye. Cynthia simply smiled. *** Meanwhile, in the art department, Justin was reviewing the artwork for the campaign. The boards had turned out pretty much the way Justin had expected. Justin made the required finishing touches, and he now felt everything was ready for Brian’s review. Justin’s stomach started to rumble. He decided to head to the Diner for an early lunch. Realizing he had not had a chance to see Lindsay and Melanie, he called them at Debbie’s to see if they could join him. Melanie was on her way out to an appointment, but Lindsay agreed to meet him. Justin entered the Diner and was immediately engulfed in loving arms for a trademark Debbie hug. “Sunshine. How did Brian let you escape from your exile at the house?” “Debbie…” “Don’t try to defend him. I know the reason you’re at the house is to keep you away from us.” “In fact, I’m on my way back there this afternoon. I had to do some work to do for Brian at Kinnetik. I just got back last night from Cincinnati so we stayed at the loft.” “How did it go?” “I’m going to be exhibiting there for the opening of their new wing?” “That’s great! I always knew you would be famous!” “Not yet Deb, but I’m getting there. At least my work is being seen.” Lindsay entered the Diner, and Justin stood up to hug her before she joined him in the booth. “Gee Lindsay, It’s been so long. I haven’t seen you or Mel or JR in ages. I miss you guys.” Debbie came over and quickly took their orders, leaving Justin and Lindsay to chat. “Everyone misses you too. Mel had an appointment. JR has been spending a lot of time with Ben and Michael and Deb. She is going to be so spoiled from all this attention, I’m not sure I can get her to go back to Toronto,” Lindsay said with a laugh. “So how’s New York?” “New York is good. I’ve been part of several exhibits at various galleries. I have a show coming up in about three months. Yesterday, I agreed to be part of the emerging artist exhibit for the opening of the new gallery wing in Cincinnati. So I’m really excited about that.” “Why are you exhibiting in Cincinnati? I thought the idea was to get exhibits in New York?” Lindsay started to protest. “I like the non-New York exhibits. I usually get a chance to challenge myself and experiment with new techniques and be outside the radar of the critics. At least that used to be the case, until Santa Barbara,” Justin said with a laugh. “Melanie and I read about your Santa Barbara exhibit, and of course I loved the painting that you sent her. You have really succeeded in taking your art to the next level. I’m so proud of you.” “Thanks Lindsay. You have always been one of my biggest supporters.” Debbie quickly delivered their food, kissing Justin on the cheek. “My own little Picasso,” Deb uttered as she turned away. Lindsay and Justin continued their conversation while they ate. “I thought that you might be still be upset with me. After all, if I hadn’t interfered, you and Brian would be married now.” “Brian and I are fine. Our relationship is still strong. We’re still partners, even though we live in two different cities. He comes to New York when he can get away. We’re ok. I’ll just be glad when I can come back to Pittsburgh and paint here.” “Justin, it’s every artist dream to be in New York. I know it was my dream once. Why on earth would you want to comeback here?” “I’m in New York to accomplish a goal with my career, so I can get back here to Pittsburgh and paint. It’s that simple. I like New York. I’m meeting lots of interesting people. I’m making lots of contacts. I’m getting to show my work. But Lindsay, Pittsburgh is my home.” “You know I have a whole scrapbook about you. I even subscribe to a clipping service so I can keep track of you.” Lindsay said, trying to change the subject. “That’s great to know. When you get a chance you have to take a look at my new website. I finally have all my work catalogued there. It’s really exciting. And, because I have the website, I just found out that Cincinnati offered me featured artist status for the opening of their new wing. Isn’t technology wonderful?” Then Justin got rather quiet for a moment. “Lindsay how come you never went to New York to pursue your art?” “I had wanted to. When I was in college I once had a dream to be an artist in New York City. But I found out that it was just a dream. I found out in college, that I was talented. I know I’m a good artist. But everyone in the art world has talent. Unlike you, my talent wasn’t special enough to sustain a career in New York. I’m a good artist, but I’ll never be a great artist. So I redirected my talent toward teaching art history, managing art galleries, and nurturing artists. But you…you are a great artist. You couldn’t have survived this year in New York if you weren’t. You have a chance at different life than I’ve had. You have the buzz, as well as the talent. I want all possible success for you! I’m just sorry that I interfered in your life in the process.” “Lindsay, Brian and I are fine. I want to be successful with my art, but I don’t want to be consumed by my art. My relationship with Brian is still MOST important, and it ALWAYS will be. Being a successful artist wouldn’t matter if at the end of the journey, Brian weren’t with me there. Fortunately, Brian supports my art and me.” “You’re very lucky.” “I know.” “I saw Brian. He’s so proud of you. You know that he loves you.” “Yes, I know.” “Who would have ever thought that a “twink” would tame the great Brian Kinney? He’s even turned into a good father to Gus.” “Brian has always been a good father to Gus. He has always loved Gus, from the moment he first saw him. I remember Brian at the hospital that first night I met him...the night Gus was born…” “When you decided that Gus should be his name, instead of Abraham. I’m not sure Melanie will ever forgive you for that one,” Lindsay teased. “Brian STILL loves his son. When he and Gus are together, it’s as if there’s no one else in the world. So you were right…Brian is a good father. I just wish you and Melanie would give him some credit. Make no mistake, there’s no reason for you ever to doubt his love for Gus. There’s no reason for you to doubt the way Brian takes care of Gus.” “Of course, Gus just demonstrated how he feels about you. A hunger strike,” Lindsay said shaking her head.” They both just laughed. “You know Gus thinks of you as HIS JUSTIN,” Lindsay continued with a smile. “Gus was so upset with Mel and I after hearing Michael’s theory about you being lost in New York. He wouldn’t talk to us…then the hunger strike. So now I know that Gus thinks of you as his other dad. Gus is very lucky to have you. We never worry about Gus when he’s with you.” “Thanks Lindsay, that means a lot to me. But have no reason to worry about Gus when he’s with Brian. Brian is very protective where Gus is concerned. Brian has changed. He is not the irresponsible person you remember from your college days. Surely you can see that.” “I know. Mel and I are trying to see Brian differently. But he and I go way back. There is so much history. We just thought he would always remain the same.” “Lindsay, you sound like Michael!” “Oh please! Not that! Look, I know that Brian is very important to Gus, and as Gus gets older he’s going to need Brian more and more. I realize that Melanie and I are the parents, but I’m starting to see that we can’t do it all. Gus needs both you and Brian. Besides, who else would have taken him camping in the middle of winter?” “Oh, I see you heard about that.” “In gory detail. Gus can’t stop talking about it.” “Then I guess I should warn you that Gus is scheduled for his first horseback riding lesson today. Well not lesson actually…there are stables down the road from the house. So Brian and I thought that we should see if Gus and the horses like each other.” Lindsay started to laugh uncontrollably. “Lindsay. What did I say?” Lindsay laughing continued. “I’m sorry Justin. I just got a picture of Gus meeting a horse up close. But even funnier, I just got a picture of Brian meeting a horse up close. You and I were raised riding horses. Brian and Gus are going to be another matter. You’re going to have your hands full. You think Brian was a drama queen about the marshmallows, I can just imagine him with the horses. I’m sorry, Justin. You have to allow me this good laugh,” Lindsay said and then burst out laughing again. “Please take pictures. I wish I could there, but I have an appointment this afternoon. So please take lots of pictures.” “You’re right. You and I rode as kids. I forgot about that. Brian and Gus have probably only been close to horses at the zoo. You’re right! This is going to be an experience for both of them. Don’t worry, I sure that you will get a full report from Gus.” “Oh yeah! I’m betting on it. Wait ‘til I tell Melanie!” Lindsay remarked, still laughing. “Well I guess I should get ready to go. I have a long drive to the house.” “Just a minute, where do you think you’re going?” “What do you mean?” “You’re not going anywhere until you tell me about the house,” Lindsay demanded. “Lindsay.” “I’m waiting, Justin!” “All right. What do you want to know?” “Tell me all everything about it.” “The house is special. Yes, it’s large and expensive, but that’s not why I love it. It’s the first place that Brian and I have every moved into together. When we decided not to get married, I thought he had sold the house. But he didn’t. So it’s been sitting empty for a year. So we rented some furniture, and we’re going stay there for a while. I’m going to paint there. Gus has his own room there. Brian is totally relaxed there. You’ll see what I mean when you see it.” “When…when?” “Now, you know Brian…” “Yes, I do. That’s why I’m pleading with you to see the house. You’re more likely to give in than Brian.” “I’ll see what I can do. How long are you going to be in town?” “Melanie wants to leave on Saturday or Sunday because Gus has school on Monday.” “Brian took Gus shopping. I have no idea what they bought, but I think he was buying Gus more school clothes. They even bought me this new outfit.” “So that’s why you are out of your usual tee shirt and cargo pants.” “Yeah, Brian said as long as I was bossing his art department around, I had to look the part. I’m grateful he didn’t buy me a suit. I’m sure I really have Gus to thank for that,” Justin said with a laugh. “Look Lindz, I really do have to get going.” “Well, I guess I really do have to let you go…unless you have more to tell me?” “Nope. Nothing that I haven’t already said,” Justin said with a smile, while Lindsay nodded her acceptance.