Texas Nights - 2 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Brian dozed in the padded armchair, sleeping, but not sleeping alert to every sound as he waited for Justin to be brought to his room. Suddenly and without warning the door banged open and Justin was being wheeled in on a gurney, his skin translucent in the glow of the fluorescent hospital lights. With speedy efficiency the two nurses and one orderly had Justin off the gurney and in the bed. Brian could see him shiver. “Do you have another blanket?” he asked a nurse. “Jai’s cold.” “I’ll get one, but he should warm up soon.” She said with a smile. “He might be a bit nauseated, but it won’t last long.” She put a kidney shaped basin on the stand near Justin’s bed. “Just in case” she smiled. Brian could see that Justin’s ankle was encased in a large and bulky looking cast that reached almost to his knee. He moved over to the bed and stood there for a moment before letting his fingers smooth back the blond hair from the pale forehead before bending and kissing it softly. Justin’s blue eyes fluttered open. “Brian” he whispered. “You didn’t leave.” “I made you a promise Jai, I don’t break my promises.” “I feel like shit.” “You look pale, but not bad.” “I’ll make it up to you Brian. Are you staying long with Vic?” “I haven’t decided. I have six weeks before I head back to the Pitts. I don’t have any firm plans.” “That’s good.” Justin said and he let himself relax into the pillow. “I think I’m going to sleep now.” “You sleep, Jai, it’ll do you good. If you want me, I’m just going to be over in the corner on the chair.” “Thank you Brian. I’ll never forget this.” Jai shut his eyes. “I’m sorry I’m being such a wuss.” “We all have wuss moments. This is yours.” Brian smiled with his words. “Maybe next time will be mine.” There was only the soft sound of Jai breathing and Brian knew he’d fallen asleep. Finally able to relax, Brian retired back to his chair and let himself fall into a deep sleep. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin woke up a few hours later. His head was clearer but his ankle throbbed. His throat was dry and he desperately wanted a drink of water. He turned his head and he saw Brian asleep on a chair in the corner, his long body at an impossible angle. As he watched him, memorizing the contours of the sleeping face, Brian’s eyes opened and locked on him. “Hey,” Brian said. “Sleeping beauty awakes.” The tall man stood his motion fluid despite the angle that he’d been sleeping in. He stretched as he walked to Justin’s bed. “You look parched. I’ll get you a drink.” Brian poured some ice water from a pitcher by the bed into a glass. He added a straw that could bend and held it to Justin’s lips. Justin drank deeply, grateful for the cool water. “Thanks” he said. “How are you feeling?” Brian asked. “I’ve been better.” He tried to sit up and look at his ankle. “Let me move the bed up for you.” Brian pushed the button raising the head of the bed slightly so that Justin wasn’t completely flat. “The doctor said you did quite the number on it. You have to stay off it for six weeks, in fact you’re confined to bed for most of that time. He’ll let you use crutches to get to and from the bathroom, but other than that get used to the view from your bed.” “Fuck, fuck, fuck.” Justin swore. “I have a show to get ready for.” “Such language,” Brian laughed. “I’m sure we can work out something so that you can paint from your bed – otherwise the show can be moved to another date.” “You don’t understand.” Justin began. “No, Jai, you don’t understand.” Brian sat on the edge of the bed and took Justin’s hand in his. “Your ankle was bad enough that you could have lost the mobility in it completely. With the surgery they did, the chances are pretty good that you’ll be dancing again by the end of the year. If you don’t do as you’re told, you could end up using a cane or worse for the rest of your life.” Justin blinked back tears of frustration. “Every time, every fucking time I finally get something working for me in my life. Every time I start to feel like maybe, just maybe the gods are looking favorably down at me. Every time - something happens to shoot my life all to shit.” He tried to wave Brian away. “Leave me alone, nothing matters anymore. I just don’t care, I just don’t give a shit.” He turned his head away from Brian dismissing him. “Well, as a drama queen moment, I’d rate that a B minus. I mean my friend Emmett could do a better DQ moment on one of his worst days. You Princess don’t even come close.” Brian edged Justin over slightly with his hip and stretched out on the narrow hospital bed, laying on his side putting his arm under Justin and pulling him close. “Jai, I don’t know what went on in your life before, but right now you have me and you have Uncle Vic to help you weather any of life’s little bumps. So just concentrate on getting well enough so I can spring you from here, we’ll help you.” Brian used his thumb to wipe away the silent tears that had escaped the blue eyes and then kissed Justin’s nose. “After all Jai, we’re partners. That’s what partners do, support one another.” Brian grinned at the puzzled blond. Jai thought for a moment and then remembered vaguely telling the doctor that Brian was his partner. “I didn’t mean that for real.” He murmured. “I heard it with my own ears and I have a witness.” Brian teased. “I was wondering where my ring was, after all, you being a famous artist and all, you should at least buy me a ring.” He sighed dramatically. “I suppose I’ll have to wait now until you get on your feet, but what will all the guys say when they find out you didn’t buy me a ring?” “You are an asshole Kinney.” Justin said, but he laughed for the first time since Brian had known him. “I’ll buy you a ring all right. I can see it now, the stud of Liberty Avenue, wearing a commitment band, off the market, no more tricking. The queers from here to the Pitts will go into mourning.” “I’ll have you know, my little blond princess that if I commit to one man – then that’s it. I’m committed.” Suddenly the door to Jai’s room burst open and a man with a camera and began to snap pictures of Justin and Brian in bed. A woman, microphone in hand started. “Jai, when did you and Brian Kinney meet? Was it love at first sight? How long have you been partners?” Brian leapt up off of the bed. “Who are you people and what in hell are you doing in this room?” He ignored the photographer who was busy shooting pictures and the rapid fire questions of the woman. He grabbed both of them by the arms and forced them out the door. Once in the hall way he shouted at the nurses who were standing around open mouthed. “Get security and get these assholes out of here.” Before going back into Justin’s room and turning the lock on the door. “What in hell was that all about?” He asked Justin who was almost doubled up in laughter. “Our cover’s been blown sweetheart. Our romance is going to be in all the tabloids. Jai Tee ties the knot with Brian Kinney.” In a fake radio announcer’s voice “Jai Tee, famous Pittsburgh artist who presently resides in San Antonio Texas, was seen with his partner Brian Kinney also from Pittsburgh.” Justin giggled semi hysterical. “Very funny” Brian said but then he looked at Jai and thought for a moment about the ludicrousness of the whole thing and he started to laugh as well. He got back on the bed, careful of the plaster covered foot and Justin moved into his arms as if it was the most natural thing in the world. “Well, Jai was it love at first sight and how long have we been partners? Enquiring minds want to know.” “I’m sorry sir, but I don’t discuss my personal life with any interviewer. Just let your readers know that Brian and I are very happy.” Justin giggled again. “I think it’s the drugs, this can’t possibly be happening.” “Jai, it happened, believe me.” Brian couldn’t resist, he leaned in and kissed Justin, a kiss that was meant to be casual and fun turned quickly into something much, much more and it was with considerable effort they both broke apart breathless. “Wow, you’re not a half bad kisser Jai.” Brian said finally. “You’re not bad yourself partner,” Justin giggled. “Do you prefer yellow gold or platinum for your commitment ring?” “I like both.” Brian said with a smirk in his voice. “Can’t you narrow it down more, I don’t have a lot of time to look.” “You have no time to look Princess, because you are going to be spending it all on your back.” Brian pretended to think. “Now that I think about it, I rather like having my partner on his back day in and day out.” “Asshole, I don’t bottom.” “Neither do I – my, my, our first disagreement – I wonder who will win this one.” Brian joked. There was a knock on the locked door and Brian got up to see who it was. “Ah, Doctor Nelder, come to see the celebrity.” Brian opened the door for her. “Mr. Taylor, Mr. Kinney, you’ve both caused quite a stir here.” She said with a smile as she walked in. “I’d like to keep you in here at least twenty four hours Mr. Taylor.” “Is it really necessary Doctor? Brian and Vic can see that I’m looked after. If you let them know what to do and what to watch for I’m sure I’ll be alright at home.” “I don’t suppose Mr. Kinney that you were planning on leaving the hospital anyway?” she asked. “No, not until Jai is ready to go.” Brian was back by Justin’s bed holding his hand. “Mr. Taylor, your partner certainly is stubborn.” She said. “I expected as much so I’ve written up instructions for your care. I’ve already talked to Mr. Kinney and he assured me that you would remain off your feet and that he’d have you in my office next week for a check up or you can go to your family doctor which ever you prefer. I’d like to do another x-ray in four weeks to see how things are progressing. I’ve left a prescription for pain meds with the pharmacist, but only take them when you absolutely need to. They aren’t candy.” “Yes doctor” the two men said in unison, both of them grinning at each other. “Fine you can go home Mr. Taylor. I’d suggest that you have your car and driver pick you up at one of the side entrances. The hotel lobby is full of reporters.” “It must be a slow news day.” Brian drawled. “Mr. Taylor is a celebrity here in San Antonio as I’m sure you know. He’s kept his personal life very separate from his professional one. He’s young, handsome and mysterious, finding that he has a life partner is news Mr. Kinney, at least around these parts.” She smiled and left the room. “You’re news blondie” Brian said. “No, WE are news.” Justin shook his head. “I’m sorry Brian, I really didn’t think that anyone would ever find out when I said we were partners or even care for that matter. I just wanted you to be able to stay with me. I have a real hard time dealing with hospitals and for some reason I feel safe with you around.” “I know why you said it Jai, and all kidding aside, I didn’t mind in the least. It wasn’t as if it was going to go any further than the hospital staff.” He huffed a laugh “Apparently I was mistaken.” “Apparently” Justin lay on the bed looking gloomy. “You had better call your family and friends and tell them the truth before the shit hits the fan and it’s in all the tabloids. They never back down on a story whether it’s true or not.” “I’ll call them later. There isn’t anything to worry about I’m sure, it probably is just a local paper and it’ll never hit the Pitts.” Brian looked up. “Hey Vic, did you bring something for Jai here, we can take him home.” “Hi boys, yes I brought Jai’s baggiest pants, I didn’t think he’d be able to fit jeans over his cast.” He looked at them both lying on the bed, Brian comfortable with his arm around Jai and Jai relaxing in Brian’s embrace. “Brian I always knew you were a fast worker, but to have talked Jai into being your partner in less than twenty four hours. Man, you win the prize for sweet talkers.” He laughed. “I wish I was a fly on the wall of the Liberty Avenue diner when the news hits. Jai, I’m sorry, I should have warned you about him. Did he at least get you a ring?” Vic chuckled. “Actually, I owe Brian a ring, this fiasco was my idea.” Justin looked chagrined. “Well it could have been worse; it could have been a shotgun wedding.” Vic guffawed. “I really can’t believe you Brian, since I ran into you in the hotel, my life has certainly not been boring, but I hope the two of you slow down. I am an old man and all this excitement is hard on my heart.” He actually giggled causing both Brian and Jai to roll their eyes. “I’m glad you find this amusing Vic.” Brian’s voice was filled with irony. “I’m not so sure Jai is going to like all the wacko’s hanging around who for some reason think Jai having a partner is big news.” “Jai has been somewhat of a recluse Brian. He’s been asked time and time again for interviews, to attend his shows, to appear on various talk shows and he always refuses. There’s been a mystique about his life. Now it appears that he has a love interest. That would be you – and a rather handsome one who is an important man in his own right. Of course it’s news.” “You’re important?” Justin looked at Brian with interest. “Cool, what do you do?” “I’m in advertising Jai, I don’t do too bad.” Brian said modestly. “At least until now no one was clamoring to learn about my love life, well except Mikey.” “Shit Mikey” Vic said. “He’s going to be pissed when he hears about this. He always figured that he’d be your partner some day.” “Never would have happened Vic.” Brian said. “Mikey and I are best friends, and I love him dearly, but I’m not ‘in’ love with him. I’m not even sure fags can be ‘in’ love.” “I think we had this conversation before.” Justin mumbled. “Asshole” “I’m going to pretend you’re a rude little shit because you have a sore foot.” Brian smirked. “Lucky for you or I’d have to spank you for calling me names all the time.” “Promises, promises.” Justin wiggled. “I’ve got to piss. Can one of you manly men help me to the bathroom?” “Brian can help you, he’s your partner, let him work at it.” Vic grinned. “Here’s your stuff. I brought you the baggiest pants I could find to go over the cast. I’m going to check you out, pick up any meds you need and meet the two of you by the west entrance for our getaway “Thanks a lot Vic.” Brian grumbled. “Now I’m a nurse.” “Well, think of as a chance to get a look at my dick.” Justin said. “I’ve seen plenty of dicks, I’m sure yours isn’t that different.” Brian picked Justin up and deposited him in the wheel chair. “I bet it’s the best looking one you’ve ever seen.” “Not likely Jai, you don’t even want to know the number of dicks I’ve seen.” Brian wheeled the chair into the bathroom. “I’m going to stand you up on your good leg, you get to pull down your underwear, and then I’ll lower you on the can. You can pee sitting down for the next few weeks.” “You take all the fun out of things Brian.” Jai griped but he flashed Brian a wide smile. “I think I’ll have some of what ever it is you’re taking.” Brian joked. He walked out of the bathroom to give Justin some privacy. “Call me when you’re done.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “Hey Brian, you forgot to take your cell phone with you. The damn thing has been vibrating all over the house.” Vic grinned at Brian and Justin in the back seat. “Who ever it is will wait.” Brian said. “Jai sit still.” Justin was wiggling around on the back seat trying to get comfortable without leaning on Brian. “Lean on me and settle down.” “You’re a pretty bossy.” Justin grumbled. “It’s a long trip back to the ranch and you’re too squirmy, you’re worse than Gus.” “Who’s Gus?” Justin asked. “I thought you didn’t have a boyfriend.” “I don’t, but apparently I have a partner. Gus is my son; he’s six and lives with his two moms. I was the donor, but because his mother is my friend, I’ve been part of his life since he was born.” “Wow, do you have any pictures of him?” Justin had been leaning against Brian and now he started to move around to see if Brian had any pictures of Gus. “Stay still.” Brian admonished. “Yes I have a picture of him. If you’re a good little boy I’ll show you.” Justin stuck his tongue out at Brian and Vic laughed at the two of them. It had been a long time since he had seen Justin enjoy himself so much despite his broken ankle. “You two play nice.” Vic laughed. “Do either of you want to go anywhere before we head back to the ranch?” “Not particularly.” Brian said. “I want to go downtown.” Justin said. “I need to pick up my watch at Anstead’s” He caught Vic’s eye in the rear view mirror and signaled with his eyes to say nothing. “Good thing I rented you a wheel chair Jai, ‘cause I don’t think you’re good enough on the crutches to be walking around.” Vic laughed; he suspected what Jai was up to. “You were told bed rest, what part of bed rest don’t you understand blondie?” Brian asked. “It’s just one little stop Brian and I won’t be long.” Justin almost whined. “You even sound like Gus.” Brian reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet. He flipped it open and found two pictures of Gus. “This was his first picture. Mikey took it the night Gus was born.” The picture was of Brian holding his son for the first time. “And this one is his first school picture.” He handed them to Justin who studied the two pictures as if memorizing them. “He looks a lot like you.” Justin said. “So they tell me.” “I wish I could meet him.” “If you ever get to the Pitts, I’ll introduce you.” “I haven’t been back in five years.” “You haven’t been anywhere in five years Sunshine.” Vic piped up from the front seat. “Sunshine?” Brian smiled. “Debbie started calling him that and I guess it stuck, it’s because of his smile, not that we see it much these days.” Vic answered. “I sent her a couple of pictures of the two of us and Jai was actually smiling in one of them.” “You’ll have to show me copies Vic, I didn’t know he could smile.” Brian smirked. “Ow, don’t pinch you little shit.” “Don’t talk about me as if I’m not here. My foot is broken, not my ears.” The car stopped on the main street and parked in front of a row of stores. “This is as close as I can get.” Vic said. “Help me into the chair and I’ll take it from there.” Justin looked at Brian. “You don’t have to come, I can do it myself.” “Fine with me, I like to see you more independent.” Brian leaned back in the seat and shut his eyes. “Wake me up when you get back.” “I’m not going to be gone that long.” Justin eased himself to the edge of the seat and with Vic’s help got seated in the chair. “When can I take another pain pill?” “When you’re behaving and in bed,” Brian drawled. “Otherwise, tough shit, if you don’t want to follow the doctor’s orders you can damn well suffer.” “You’re a pretty mean nurse.” “But I work cheap, so don’t whine.” Brian continued to keep his eyes closed pretending disinterest. He was curious about what Justin was up to, but too stubborn to ask. Brian had intended to follow Justin, but the combination of hardly any sleep, the warm car and soft music that Vic had playing soon lulled him into a zombie like state of inertia. It seemed like Justin had only been gone a few minutes when he was back tapping on the glass of the car door. “Hey Jai, what took you so long?” Brian asked as he brushed the sleep out of his eyes. “I need air-conditioning and a pain pill not necessarily in that order.” Justin said. “Help me into the car.” “What’s the magic word?” Brian smirked. Justin glared at him. “Don’t tempt me Brian.” He snarled. “What happened to little Mary Sunshine?” Brian got out of the car and helped Justin back inside. Vic stowed the wheelchair in the trunk. “Maybe you should have listened to the doctor and not been in such a hurry to go shopping.” “Maybe you should shut up.” Justin wasn’t too pleasant. Brian was about to snark something back when he saw the pain lines in Justin’s forehead and the dull blue of his eyes. Brian climbed back into the car and this time he didn’t wait for Justin to get settled. Instead he gathered the smaller man into his arms and cradled his head against his shoulder. “Relax Jai, close your eyes and relax. We’ll be home soon and you can have your pain meds. You need to take them with food.” “It really hurts Brian; I should have kept it elevated. I guess I was gone too long.” “Can you eat something now?” Are you nauseated?” Brian asked. “I guess I could eat something.” Justin looked up at Brian. “Why, what do you have and I don’t mean an all protein snack.” “Well, it was a thought.” Brian said tongue in cheek, “But actually Vic could stop at a hamburger drive through.” “Could I have my pain med then?” “Yes.” “Then let’s stop.” Soon the large black car was parked in the shade at a McDonalds. Justin, still leaning against Brian was eating a cheeseburger, his second one. “Are you sure you don’t want a bite?” he asked Brian again. “I’ll have one bite.” Brian conceded. “Not bad.” He snagged a couple of Justin’s fries. “Here swallow these.” He gave Justin the two pills. “No more for at least four hours so enjoy.” Justin swallowed the pills and finished his lunch. Vic gathered up the lunch debris and took it to the garbage can. Justin turned to Brian, “Can you hold me like you were before? You make me feel safe and I could probably sleep while the pills start to work.” “Hmmm, like this?” Brian asked and he gathered Justin back in his arms, making sure the younger man was comfortable and his head rested against Brian’s chest. “You smell nice.” Justin murmured the pills already loosening his tongue. “I could lay here forever in your arms. You have such beautiful strong arms. I’m going to paint you someday soon.” “Shh, shut your eyes and your mouth and go to sleep.” Brian said. He tried to concentrate on the scenery as Vic drove them through the city heading back to the ranch. “I love your eyes.” Justin’s words were slurred and Brian wondered if maybe two pills were too many. He’d have to call the doctor and ask. She said two, but Justin was pretty much out of it. It was like he was drunk. “I’d like to fuck you.” “I’m the top, remember?” Brian said softly. “I remember, but I bet you’d bottom for me.” Justin smiled, his eyes closed. “We could take turns, that would be fair.” “We’ll discuss it another day.” Brian smoothed back the blond silk. He moved his jacket off the other seat and pulled it over Justin’s shoulders to keep the chill of the air conditioner vents off of him. “I think you’ve won him over Brian.” Vic said with a laugh from the front seat. “It’s the drugs talking Vic.” But Brian tightened his hold on the sleeping form in his arms and when he thought Vic wasn’t looking, he kissed the warm pale cheek. Vic seeing how tender and caring Brian was to Jai, smiled to himself. He hoped the two in the back seat could maybe actually have a relationship. Brian was almost sorry to see the sign that meant they would be turning off the road and onto the ranch property. Being responsible for Justin’s comfort and wellbeing was a different kind of task for the thirty year old advertising executive and he rather liked it. Vic pulled the car as close as he could to the main entrance of the large ranch house. “I hate to wake him up.” He said to Brian. “It’ll be at least two hours before he can have anymore pain meds.” “I can carry him if you lead the way.” Brian offered. It was a struggle and awkward, but between the two of them, Brian was able to get the sleeping Justin out of the car. “Cripes, lets not feed him any more cheeseburgers, he’s gotten heavier.” Brian bitched and Justin gave a sleepy giggle before falling back to sleep, trusting completely the man who was holding him. Carrying the sleeping Justin and trying not to hit his cast against anything was enough of a job without taking the time to notice his surroundings. It was only when he deposited Justin on the large bed and straightened up did he notice the room he was in. The room was a surprise after the traditional Spanish design of the house. It was large; the size of two rooms and the ceiling was a series of glass panels. That appeared to have some kind of cover over them to block out the sunlight. The walls were full of Justin’s art everywhere Brian looked there was splashes of color that demanded he spend the time looking at them. Brian sighed inwardly wishing he had the time. Instead he took off Justin’s shoe, removed his baggy pants and his shirt and tucked the soft cotton sheets and quilts around his still form. When he was sure Justin was okay, only then did Brian begin to explore. The whole house was full of Justin’s work; the walls had been kept a pale cream the better to compliment the vivid colors of the oil paintings some of which were extremely large. Smelling the aroma of coffee, Brian traced it to the kitchen were he found Vic, apron around his waist, preparing supper. Vic poured Brian a cup of coffee and placed a plate of sliced fruit in front of him. “I hope Jai sleeps for at least another hour or so.” Vic began. “The last twenty four hours have been busy for him, I’m sure he’ll sleep.” Brian rubbed his own eyes. “I suppose I’d better get back to our place. I could use a shower.” “Brian, I don’t want to impose on you. I know you’re on vacation. But would you mind staying here? I’m not comfortable leaving Jai here on his own, especially overnight until he becomes more mobile with the crutches. There’s lots of room, in fact there is an adjoining bedroom next to Jai’s. I think the previous owners liked to have their own sleeping space.” Brian thought for a moment. “I can stay here. But I’m not so sure what Jai will think of it. It’s one thing to have a stranger around when you’re under the influence of some strong pain meds. It’s another to have that stranger around twenty four seven.” “You forget, there’s the little problem with the newspapers and your nuptials.” “I haven’t forgotten.” Brian said. “I’m hoping that it was only the local papers and that it’ll blow over soon. I mean Jai is only a painter and I’m just a Pittsburgh working stiff.” “Brian, Jai is a little more than a painter. He’s won awards and his stuff sells for big dollars. Not to mention he received a multi million dollar trust fund that was rather noisily contested by his own father who publicly disowned him.” “Where in hell was I when all this was going on?” Brian shook his head. “I don’t live under a rock.” “Brian five or six years ago you were putting in eighty hour weeks. I remember, Deb wrote to me about you, she was worried. I’m surprised you even remember anything about that year or so.” “It was a bitch of a year.” Brian agreed. “I wanted to make an impression at the company and I wasn’t about to let the snot nosed ass kissing frat boys think that ‘daddy’s money (‘)meant they were better than me.” “Well, whatever you did worked. Look where you are now.” “Sitting in blondie’s kitchen, drinking coffee and getting ready to play nurse?” Brian couldn’t help but snerk. “You know you’re attracted to him. Don’t give me any crap about it being a hardship helping him out.” Vic eyed Brian up. “I’m not sure attracted is the word.” Brian said. “He seems nice enough. I haven’t actually seen him at his best.” “Actually, you have. He’s been more even tempered than ever with you around.” “Gawd help me then when it wears off.” Brian said. “Because he’s up and down.” “And you aren’t Brian? From what Deb tells me you still have a problem making relationship commitments. She says you’ve never had a boyfriend and you’re what, thirty now?” “You should talk, where’s your boyfriend?” “He’s dead Brian, I thought you knew that. He died six years ago.” Vic had tears in his eyes when he said the words. “I’m sorry Vic, I didn’t know. Debbie and Mikey, they never said anything.” “They didn’t know. We lived together in New York for years but Roland was never comfortable being out of the closet, so we stayed in the city and lived our lives together as best we could.” “No, no, get away from me.” Brian turned around startled at Justin’s loud voice. He ran into the bedroom surprised to see the blond huddled in the corner of the bed, his eyes terrified and unseeing, tears streaming down his face. “Jai hasn’t had a bad nightmare like this in a long time Brian. I’m not sure what to do.” Vic’s voice was low. Brian climbed onto the bed and slowly crept toward Justin. “It’s okay Jai, come here, let me hold you.” His voice was calm and soothing. Justin, still sleeping though his eyes were open heard Brian’s voice and scrambled toward him, wrapping himself around Brian. Brian held him tightly until the tremors in his body subsided. Vic, seeing that Brian had things under control, went into the kitchen to get some juice for Justin. When he got back, he could see that Brian had managed to get Justin lying back down on the bed and covered once again. When Justin’s breathing had evened out and he appeared to be sleeping calmly, Brian joined Vic back in the kitchen. “I was afraid of this.” Vic said. “After he got out of the hospital everything came down on him at once. He had the death of his close friend to deal with, his parents disowned him and then when his grandfather left him the trust, his father tried his damndest to have it revoked. On top of that he had Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and no one close to him to help him.” Vic sat beside Brian at the table. “He has an amazing strength of will and it was that strength that let him reinvent himself as Jai Tee. He was driving through Texas on his way to Mexico when found this ranch. He says it was the Texas nights that lured him here. Did you notice the ceiling in the bedroom? Well at night the cover rolls back and it’s like sleeping out under the stars. It calms him he says.” Vic shook his head. “The only thing he still has difficulty dealing with is people. People in Jai Tee’s life haven’t been positive forces, so he doesn’t trust them. I was surprised that he took to you so easily.” Vic gave a half laugh. “It must be that Irish Kinney charm Michael tells me about.” “He went shopping today. He can’t be that bad.” Brian said. “To my knowledge that’s the first time in more than a year he’s gone into a store alone. He must have had a darn good incentive for doing so. I just wish I knew for sure what it was. It was probably that little expedition that set off the night mare.” “I’m gong to go check on him.” Brian got up to leave. “Call me when dinner is ready and I’ll wake him up.” Brian was thoughtful as he walked down the hallway. Justin didn’t appear to have moved. So the older man decided to have his shower while he had the opportunity. The bathroom was a work of art and the shower held lots of possibilities for showering with someone else. Brian enjoyed the warm water and feeling clean, using Justin’s soap and shampoo. After he got out, he wrapped a towel around his waist and padded into the kitchen. “Vic, I hate to bother you. But can you bring my suitcases over here when you get a chance?” “Sure Brian, though I’m wouldn’t be surprised if Jai would prefer you dressed as you are, I know I do.” “I always thought you were a dirty old man.” Brian teased. “I’m going to lay down with Jai and with luck get a bit of rest.” “You’ve got a couple of hours before dinner. I’ll set up a table in Jai’s room; we can eat with him in there.” “Great.” Brian turned and headed back. Jai looked so fragile in the large bed, his blond hair tousled on the pillow, the large lump under the covers that was the cast only made him seem even more delicate. Brian dropped the towel and climbed into the warm bed on the other side. He lay for a moment on his side and watched Jai sleep. His eyes slowly closed and he felt himself drift into oblivion. Brian’s breath evened out in sleep and he never noticed when a pale slim body edged over to his. Jai snuggled close, tucking his head under Brian’s chin. Automatically Brian’s arms wrapped themselves around Jai’s body and together they slept, both of them calm and at peace. An hour and a half later Justin opened his eyes. He could tell that evening was approaching and that it was past time for him to have his pain medication. His ankle throbbed with every breath he took. He vaguely remembered having a nightmare and he was sure Brian had held him. In fact he realized Brian was holding him now. A naked Brian was holding him now. Interesting – Justin realized that Brian must have had a shower, he could smell his soap and shampoo, and he smiled to himself thinking of the other man in his shower and wished he’d been there as well. Unable to resist, Justin first licked and then began to suckle on the raised nub of Brian’s nipple. The movement of Brian’s cock stiffening against his leg made Justin grin to himself. “What are you doing?” Brian asked sleepily. “Nothing” Justin said with a smile. “Could have fooled me. It seems to me like you’re trying to take advantage of a sleeping man.” “You’re my partner, I’m allowed.” “Today I’m your partner, what about tomorrow; will you still respect me in the morning if I give in to you?” Brian said and he turned Justin’s face to his covering his lips with his own and smothering any answer the blond might make, until they broke away breathless. “You’d still be my partner and yes I’d respect you.” Justin was the aggressor this time and he let his mouth show Brian how he felt. “I wish my ankle wasn’t hurting like a son of a bitch because Brian Kinney I want to fuck you so bad I ache.” Justin’s voice was raw with emotion. “I’m the top Jai, we’ve had this discussion.” Brian rolled Justin onto his back and began to taste him inch by inch down his torso taking special care with Justin’s nipples. “Gawd Brian, you’re driving me crazy, I could even consider bottoming for you if you keep that up.” Justin’s fingers combed through Brian’s hair, holding his head in place while Brian sucked an especially erotic spot. “That’s good Jai because I’m going to fuck you.” Brian breathed. “Please tell me you have condoms and lube in the drawer beside you.” “Arrrrghhhh” was all Justin could say when Brian’s teeth gently scraped over the sensitive head of his cock and his tongue licked at the precum. Brian opened the drawer relieved to find what he was looking for immediately. He knew he couldn’t put Justin’s legs up because of the ankle, or have him on his knees for the same reason, so continuing to rain kisses and love bites he turned him over, spooning behind him. The lube was cool and Justin flinched with the coolness at first, but the probing finger made his neck arch and he instinctively turned enough to allow Brian entry. “Hurry up, I can’t stand this.” He panted. “Patience Jai, I’ve this is our wedding night.” Justin could hear the smile in Brian’s voice as he teased him about being his partner. The full head of Brian’s cock pushed past the first ring of muscle. The steady sound of whispered words of love making relaxed him enough so that he pushed back, letting in the full length of the man behind him, and for the first time in many years he began the age old dance of love. Each thrust sent ripples of warmth through his body. Brian reached around and fisted Justin’s full and throbbing cock, never breaking his rhythm and in less time than either of them wanted the familiar tightening in their balls and the guttural groans that were ripped from their diaphragms, heralded the orgasmic waves that flooded them both. “Don’t move.” Justin begged. “I don’t want you to leave.” Brian gave a half laugh, “For a top, you’re a very bossy bottom.” But he lay there holding Justin’s sweaty body until the softening of his dick made him withdraw and dispose of the condom in the basket beside the bed. “Brian, I really needed that.” Justin said. “Me too.” “I need a shower; I don’t suppose you have any ideas on how I’m going to do that?” “I suppose we could put a plastic bag over the ankle.” Neither man wanted to move. There was a knock on the bedroom door. “Jai, there was a delivery from town for you and supper is ready in less than an hour. You two are going to have to come up for air.” They could hear Vic laughing as he walked back to the kitchen. “Not only are you a bossy bottom, you’re a noisy one.” Brian observed. “You should talk. I heard what you said.” Justin could still hear Brian’s words as he came. ‘I love you Jai’ had been whispered but Justin had heard them as clear as if Brian had shouted them. Brian knew what he’d said. He didn’t know why he’d said the words, he’d never done it before when he’d fucked anyone and he was embarrassed. He’d been hoping Justin hadn’t been paying attention. “Well, it is our wedding night,” was his excuse. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Later that night, after their dinner, after both of them had showered together with laughter and jokes and the occasional kiss. After they had said goodnight to Vic and heard him finish in the kitchen and leave the house. Brian and Justin lay side by side on the big bed, Brian with his head on Justin’s arm as the blond held him, and they both looked up at the clear Texas night sky. “There seems to be more stars here than in the Pitts.” Brian observed. “That’s what made me stay, the Texas nights.” Justin sighed contended. “I met you in a Texas night.” “True, but I don’t think it was the best way. You could have come up with a less painful way of getting my attention.” “Asshole, it’s not always about you.” Justin kissed Brian’s forehead. “I have something for you.” He grinned. “Now don’t panic and run away.” Justin pulled open the drawer beside his bed and pulled out the bag that had been delivered earlier. He handed it to Brian who opened the box inside. “It’s a friendship ring to say thank you for being my partner today.” “It’s beautiful Jai.” Brian looked at the platinum band. He put it on his ring finger of his left hand. “You don’t have to wear it on that hand Brian; it should fit the other one.” His voice was shy. “I had it engraved.” “Does it matter which hand I wear it on?” Brian asked. “It looks good on this one.” “Well, traditionally, you wear a wedding ring on that finger on that hand.” “But this is our wedding night. You said so.” Brian teased. “I think for tonight I’ll leave it on this hand. After all it isn’t every day I’m declared a partner to a handsome man with lots of money. Does this mean you’re going to be my sugar daddy?” “I’m rolling my eyes here Brian.” Justin laughed. “I would love to be your sugar daddy, but I can’t really see you letting me.” “No, me either.” Brian admitted. “I’ve worked hard to get where I am and I like working hard.” “I could be your sugar daddy while you’re on vacation.” Justin suggested. “I mean you do have six weeks. We could be partners that long and then you go back to the Pitts and I stay here.” “Jai, I’m not sure that’s a good idea.” Brian began. He felt Justin stiffen and he turned and looked into the blue eyes that were suddenly tear filled. “I’m feeling things for you that I’ve never felt for anyone before. I’m afraid Jai, I’m afraid I’m going to never want to leave you.” “Would that be so bad?” Justin asked.. “because you make me feel safe. For the first time in five years I feel safe and happy. Do you have any idea how great that feels?” “Jai, I don’t know what to do.” Brian looked at his hand and the platinum band caught the moonlight. “All I know is that real or not, I feel secure with your ring on my finger. It’s like I’m in some kind of fantasy and maybe I’ll wake up soon, but for now, for now I’ll just enjoy it because truthfully Jai, I want to be loved and I want to be needed.” He paused. “I’ve never admitted that to anyone else in my life, not even myself.” “I want the same thing Brian. I’ve always wanted it. So even if we have only the next six weeks, it doesn’t matter because these six weeks will last me a lifetime, knowing that for we loved each other however briefly.” Brian caressed Jai’s cheek. He pulled off the platinum Claddagh ring that he’d worn on his pinky finger of his right hand for years. “I’m giving you this as a pledge of our partnership. I promise you six weeks of heaven.” Brian slipped the ring on Justin’s ring finger, the heart pointing in. “You know, the guys at home would never believe this of me. I don’t believe this of me.” “Believe what Brian.” “That I’ve fallen under the spell of a cute blond after only knowing him for two days.” “I had you after ten minutes, admit it.” Justin joked. “Jai, I’d never admit it to anyone else, but you’re probably right.” Brian snuggled closer, something else he’d never done with anyone else. tbc .