Behind the Fifth Moon Chapter 1 - The First Year “BRIAN YOU CAN’T FUCKING LEAVE.” Michael shouted as if shouting would somehow make his best friend see that leaving was wrong. “Mikey, we graduate on Friday and I’m on the fucking bus on Saturday. Don’t even bother to argue anymore. I am sooooo out of this city. I’ll never fucking come back.” “You can’t say that. You have a scholarship, you could go to University.” Michael desperately threw in his last ace. “You can live at our place; you don’t need to live at home. Ma said you could.” “Tell Deb thanks, but no thanks. She’s done enough over the last few years. Mikey you have to understand. I don’t want to stay here. Pittsburgh is a bundle of fun filled memories. You know that.” “But we’ve had some great times.” “Yeah, we did Mikey, but it’s time to grow up. I have my diploma and I have the money I saved and last but not least” he waved a piece of paper in Michael’s face. “I have another scholarship” “Where is it?” Michael demanded. “A place that’s fucking far away from here that’s for sure.” Brian said folding the paper and tucking it into his back pocket. “I can’t believe you’re just going to leave me here all alone. I thought we were friends. I thought we meant something to each other.” “Mikey, we are friends, we’ll always be friends, but that’s all and you know it. This is my chance Mikey, to get away from this city. To get away from my family, to make something of myself where the Kinney name doesn’t mean the local drunk.” Brian kissed his friend gently on the lips and rested his forehead against the shorter man’s forehead. “I’ll always love you Mikey, but as a brother.” For the rest of the week there was a strain between the two friends. Neither one mentioned that Brian was leaving as if not saying the words meant that it wouldn’t happen. Saturday morning came and Brian woke up excited and a little bit sad. He found his gym bag in the closet and began to choose only the essentials to take with him. Making sure his newest and best clothes were packed, he took one last look around the room. It was the last time he’d see it as far as he was concerned. Without looking back he stepped from his room into the hallway and walked down the stairs. “Where do you think you’re going Sonny Boy” his father shouted from the kitchen. “Fuck off Jack” Brian said as he opened the front door and walked out. He knew his father was in his underwear and wouldn’t run out after him and he chuckled over the rage the old man must be feeling. Brian had timed it right; he arrived at the bus stop just as the bus pulled up. It was now or never. Getting on he took a seat and stared straight ahead. He didn’t want to see any more of the neighborhood ever again. At the Greyhound terminal downtown, Brian bought a one way ticket for Seattle. The ticket seller looked at him sympathetically. “You know son, that’s one damn long bus ride.” “Beats walking” was all Brian said as he took his ticket and the printed itinerary that told him the various towns and cities he’d be traveling through on his way there. He didn’t care as long as the bus kept right on rolling west. The first day on the bus wasn’t too bad. But by the fourth day it was wearing thin. If they would only travel, but no, they stopped at every damn town and village they came across. Brian attempted to zone out and sleep as much as he could. He even earned his dinner a couple of times by allowing two different guys to blow him on lay overs at a couple of terminals. It wasn’t much but it kept his expenses down. The bus pulled into the Seattle terminal at five thirty in the morning five days after Brian had left Pittsburgh. He was tired, sore, dirty and very grouchy. Taking his bag from the overhead shelf, Brian left the bus vowing to never travel that way again. It would be first class flights or he’d stay put. As he walked down the dark and rainy Seattle street, the sun just beginning to rise over the tall buildings, Brian thought about starting a list of life ambitions and rules to live by. No bus travel would be at the top of the list. He stopped at the first Starbucks that was open and ordered a coffee and a muffin. Taking them both to a seat at a table outside he sat down in the misty rain and ate his breakfast and drank his coffee leisurely, paying no attention to the stares he got because it was raining. After being on the bus so long, the dampness was more pleasurable than irritating. He needed to find a job and a place to live. Not necessarily in that order. According to the map he had, the University had plenty of student housing nearby. His scholarship included a dorm room, but not until September. He had two and half months before he could access it. Ideally a live in summer job would be the best but an affordable sublet near the University until September would be the next best thing. With that in mind he picked up a local paper and turned to the help wanted section. There were three possibilities. Brian ripped the page from the paper after circling each one. It was still too early to call them so he decided to spend a few dollars of his money on a cheap room for the day if he could find one. It wasn’t easy but after a couple of tries he found a place that would rent him a room for cash and no credit card was needed. Another thing to go on his list, make sure he had plenty of credit cards. The first job he called that morning was already taken. The second job there was no answer and the third job Brian let the phone ring more than eleven times. He was about to hang up when someone finally answered. “Speak” the voice was raspy as if unused to talking. “I’m calling about the job in the paper.” Brian said. Boy this guy was rude he thought. “You’re too young.” “Wait, don’t hang up. How do you know how old I am?” Brian asked. “Your voice, you have a young voice.” “But I can fill the job requirements.” “Do you have references?” “Well, you could call my friend’s mom back in Pittsburgh, but not here. I just got in this morning. I’m going to be attending the University in the fall.” “So you’ll use me to make some money and then quit when you’re trained. No thanks kid.” “But it would give you two months to find someone who will work for you during the winter. It says in the paper you need someone to start immediately.” “Yes, the last guy quit without notice. It happens a lot.” “Well I’ll give you until September the seventh.” “I’ll give you the address, take a cab, there aren’t any busses out here. We aren’t on the route. The housekeeper will pay for the cab when you get here.” “When should I come out to see you?” “You won’t see me, but come out immediately. The paper did say ‘start immediately’.” He quickly recited the address and then abruptly hung up the phone. Brian looked at the dead receiver in his hand weighing the consequences of looking for another job possibility another day or to find a cab and drive out to this rude guy’s place. A loud spate of arguing in the hotel hallway and a couple of thumps against the wall as if someone had fallen or been pushed helped him make his decision. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV The phone rang and rang until I thought I would scream. Where in hell was Stevi? Finally I couldn’t stand it any longer and I picked it up growling “Speak” into the receiver like some kind of Neanderthal. The voice that answered back sent shivers through my body until I was sure I’d drop the phone. I tried to convince him the job wasn’t for him but he wouldn’t take no for an answer so I let him come out here. He could talk to Stevi and she could send him on his way. But deep down I knew it wouldn’t happen. It was like my life was taking on a life of its own and I was watching from the audience. I knew this man who had phoned would be important to me. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Grabbing his bag that he hadn’t even unpacked, Brian fled the dismal room for the street outside. A cab pulled over and let him in within seconds of Brian being on the street. “I need to go to this address.” Brian handed the man the slip of paper where he’d written down the address. “No shit, you want to go all the way out there? This is going to cost you kid. It could be as high as thirty bucks.” “They said you’d be paid by the housekeeper.” “Yeah, well if not you’re going to be in some serious trouble.” “Just drive will you. I’ve got the money if they don’t pay.” Brian settled back in the comfortable seat. It smelled a bit like wet dog in the cab, but it was better than the bus. Brian was surprised when they left the city and even more surprised when the cab turned toward the ocean. “Are you sure you know where this place is?” he asked finally. “Everyone knows where it is. How many houses do you think are on an island – well I guess it isn’t actually an island. There’s a causeway to it. I bet that cost some guy a pretty penny building it. It sure wouldn’t happen these days not with all the environmentalists around. Probably disturbed some damn fish or seagull or something when it was built. But it’s been around since the forties. Nobody gave a shit then.” Brian leaned forward, they appeared to be driving toward the open water, when suddenly the road dipped and headed lower. The stately silhouette of an old Victorian style mansion appeared to be sheltered by tall pines, some with trunks so wide Brian was sure that they’d been there hundreds of years. A gate stopped just anyone from crossing on the causeway. Above the gate was a sign that read. ‘La Cinquième Lune’ “The fifth moon,” Brian commented. “It’s kind of a strange name for a house.” “So that’s what it means.” The cab driver looked at the sign with interest. “I never knew that.” He honked his horn three times and the gate slowly opened allowing them passage to the island and the house that was on it. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV I heard the buzzer that meant he was at the gate. “Don’t answer it” I shouted to Stevi who as usual ignored me. Unable to resist, I was drawn to the window and I watched him arrive. He had an air of assurance about him as if he owned the world, yet there he was looking for a job and a place to stay. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “The water is pretty high” Brian observed. “It’s high tide, you can walk across at low tide, that is if you have a death wish. There are a lot of sink holes between here and there. It doesn’t look far, but it’s at least a quarter of a mile.” The cab driver smirked. “If it’s that far, how did they hear you honk?” “There are speakers built into the gate posts. In the old days I heard you had to wait for someone from the house to come and unlock the gate. These days with the new owner, he’s modernized it some. A friend of mine told me they even have electricity and phone lines running underground now. It’s amazing what a few dollars will buy you.” “I suppose.” Brian looked around nervous now that he was on the island. It almost seemed like something out of a gothic horror movie. The house was large and rather well looked after, but weathered a silvery grey from the salt spray off the ocean. They pulled up to the entrance at the front of the house. Before Brian could get out of the cab a woman bounced down the steps. She was in her fifties, with graying hair and a plump but pleasant figure. “Come on in out of the wind dear. Let me pay this gentleman and we’ll soon have you settled. My name is Stevi by the way and yours is?” “Brian, Brian Kinney.” He waited for her to pay the cab driver and then walked up the stairs with her. “You didn’t have to wait dear. The wind is just terrible for the skin.” “It’s not that bad.” Brian said and he opened the door for her to walk through first. “Such a polite young man, but too thin, we’ll just have to feed you better.” She smiled and led him through the house to a cheerful kitchen. “Have a seat and we’ll talk about the job. I’m sure you’ll do just fine but I like to make everything clear right from the beginning. That way there is no excuse if something goes awry.” “Um, Stevi, I talked to a man on the phone.” “Yes dear, I know I should have answered the phone, but I was in the garden when you rang and I’m afraid the ringing bothers Mr. Taylor. He picked it up himself. So unlike him to do that you know.” She bustled around the kitchen placing a warm cinnamon bun covered in cream cheese frosting on a plate in front of Brian. “Would you like coffee or milk with that dear?” she asked. “Milk please.” Brian replied. The smell from the cinnamon bun was amazing. He could hear his stomach growl in anticipation. “Now that we are all settled, I’ll explain about the job. We’ve never had anyone quite as young as you dear. We need someone handy with things that go wrong around this big old house. Basic things, like fixing a leak or unplugging a toilet. And I need help in the garden. Mr. Taylor likes his fresh veggies. Oh and the lawn of course and the general yard tidying that is always needed.” “When will I meet this Mr. Taylor?” Brian asked. “Oh, you won’t dear. He’s rather a shy man and much prefers to stay in his rooms. He’s an artist, rather a famous one but since the accident he just likes to be by himself. Very few people ever actually see him or talk to him for that matter. You were very lucky to have spoken to him.” “Is something wrong with him?” Brian was curious. “That would be for Mr. Taylor to discuss, not for me to be telling tales. Now we have very few rules in this house. The most important rule is never; never enter the west wing of the house or the walled gardens off that wing. That is Mr. Taylor’s private apartment and studio space.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV I watched Stevi bring him into the kitchen and serve him one of her cinnamon rolls. She must have liked him right away. I couldn’t stop watching him and listening to his voice. I felt like some star struck teenager and all the feelings that I’d repressed for months came flooding back so quickly I doubled over in pain. He asked her questions about me that my darling Stevi fielded well. Will the day ever come when I can talk about what happened? ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “What if something needs to be fixed there?” “In that case you will find a request on the computer in your room with a time specified for the repair. You will be given a key to get in to do the repair that you will do speedily and come right back out, giving me back the key. Mr. Taylor will seclude himself in another part of the west wing while you are there. It would be preferred that you have a bank account for your pay to be automatically deposited every second Friday. Your hours will be long for the summer months, that’s the best chance to get things caught up around here. There really isn’t a lot that happens in the winter months. Because we are so remote, you will have a bedroom and sitting room and bathroom for your own use in this wing of the house. There is a telephone and a computer in there as well for you. You must pay all long distance calls. They will be deducted from your pay. Once your day is done, you are free to do as you please. All your meals will be provided and there is of course no charge for your room. Living anywhere else really isn’t practical.” “It sounds okay. I’ll write down Deb’s number so you can call her for a reference.” Brian looked around for a pen and a piece of paper. “That won’t be necessary dear. You look like a fine young man. I’ve always had a good eye for that sort of thing. And Mr. Taylor agrees.” Brian looked around. “Where is he?” “Oh he can see into all the rooms dear. He doesn’t usually bother, but I know he’ll be wanting a peek at you. If he hadn’t approved, that phone would have rung and the taxi would be called. Brian looked uncomfortable. “I don’t like the idea that he’s spying on me.” “He isn’t really. But it’s a lonely life he lives. If he sometimes pops in to watch me work, I really don’t mind. And he doesn’t have cameras in our private areas. Mr. Taylor is very respectful that way.” She paused. “Do you drive a car dear?” “I have my license.” Brian said, “but I don’t have a car.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV She offered him the use of my jeep. It surprised me but I knew she’d only tell me to get out and use it myself. Now I can lay awake and fantasize about this tall and beautiful stranger behind the wheel of my jeep, his hand caressing the gearshift. The sensual thoughts put me into overload and I pant waiting to hear what’s next. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “That’s grand; you can use one of the cars here. It will be lovely to have someone to run errands in town and I’m sure you might want to get off the island every now and then.” She got up. “Now let me show you to your room and then give you a tour of the house and the grounds. There’ll be no work for you today. You look like you’ve been traveling and I’m sure a hot shower and an early night are just what you need.” Brian was surprised by the size of his rooms. The bedroom was pleasantly decorated with ivory walls and solid looking oak furniture. The sitting room had not only an entertainment center but also a good sized desk complete with computer. He peeked in the bathroom and found it had obviously been remodeled lately as it had a deep glass walled shower and lots of marble tile. “It’s a great set of rooms Stevi” he commented. “Yes, it’s all been redone since the last man left. Such a fuss there was when he left, but I’m glad he’s gone. He disappeared you know. One day he was here, the next day he was gone. All of his things were still here; the police were not too friendly though we did report him missing.” “Well as long as it didn’t start a trend” Brian said with a smirk. Stevi laughed politely and then turned to begin her tour of the house and yard. “We will begin with a quick tour of the outbuildings and the property while it isn’t raining.” She looked at Brian and smiled. “It rains a lot here; I hope you don’t mind the rain.” “I don’t mind it.” Brian said. They walked out the rear door by the kitchen. In front of them was an extensive herb garden as well as what was once known as a kitchen garden. It was a garden full of lettuces and spinach and tomatoes and other salad vegetables. Further on was a large garden that held rows filled with green leaves. “You weren’t kidding when you said you needed help in the garden. This garden is the biggest one I’ve seen.” “I usually have enough produce from it to last us until the spring. I do a great deal of canning and freezing. I’ll need a hand for that as well when the time comes.” “I’ve never done anything like that, but I guess I can learn.” Brian said, nervous that he’d have to do something he wasn’t sure of. “It isn’t hard and as long as you’re willing the time will pass quickly.” She continued to walk pointing out things of interest until they came to a high stonewall with a wide wooden gate set into it. “This is Mr. Taylor’s garden. He looks after it himself and it is completely off limits.” “He grows more vegetables?” Brian asked. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV I followed them outside and stood on the other side of my walled garden listening to them talk. His voice was music to my ears. We were so close and yet so far away. I thought I could smell the scent of him and I was hard instantly. My hand rubbed my dick while they talked and I wished for the nerve to throw open the gate and step through. But it will never happen. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “No this is a garden full of flowers and trees and shrubs, pretty things. Mr. Taylor loves pretty things around him these days. They take his mind off of his troubles.” She continued. “You will be responsible for cutting all of the lawns and keeping the place tidy as best you can. We know it’s a never ending job and don’t expect it to be perfect. After all nature isn’t always picture perfect.” They had arrived at a large garage. “The cars are all inside.” She opened the door. “You might find the jeep is the best to use, but it’s up to you, none of them get much use anymore.” Brian took in the low-slung sports car, heavy Cadillac and the black jeep. “I think the jeep is the best idea as well.” “All that you need for the garden and yard is in that building over there.” Stevi nodded. “The pool is on the west side of the house. Mr. Taylor no longer uses it and if you like you may use it. All the chemicals and equipment are in a pool shed over there. It can be reached from a door way near the west entrance or by following the path around Mr. Taylor’s garden.” “He really won’t mind?” Brian asked. “No, he has a pool company service it once a week, but he hasn’t been in it since the accident. It used to be one of his favorite things to do. You’ll see when you go there that it’s been built with an illusion of being part of the ocean. It’s a very unique and beautiful pool and kept heated year round to a temperature of ninety degrees.” “It doesn’t sound like I’ll have a lot of time to swim.” Brian laughed. “But it might be nice in the evening or early in the morning.” “Yes that’s when I used to use it. I don’t use much myself these days. There is a hot spa area beside it. If I use anything it’s that especially on a cold wet day. The hot bubbling water is rather relaxing when you can see the ocean waves.” “It sounds good.” Brian agreed. He held the door for her when they went inside and she smiled in pleasure at his good manners. “If you don’t mind Stevi, I’d really like to have a shower and a nap. I’ve been on a bus for days and I feel like something that was dragged behind the thing.” “That’s a good idea Brian. Dinner will be at six. You can join me in the kitchen. Do you have any thing you hate to eat or are allergic to?” “I don’t have any big pet hates in the food department and I don’t think I’m allergic to anything.” He turned to go to his rooms and then turned back. “Is it okay if I use the computer to check my emails?” “Brian the computer is there for your use. Messages from Mr. Taylor will come up on the screen automatically, so you needn’t worry about missing any. Just use it however you wish.” “Great, I’m going to check out the University. I have a scholarship there.” “That’s wonderful, what will you be studying?” “I’m majoring in marketing and business administration.” He smiled at her. “I want to make advertising my career when I graduate. There’s good money in it.” “I’m sure there is.” She smiled. “Now enjoy the rest of the afternoon. I’ll see you in the kitchen at six.” “I’m going to call Deb in Pittsburgh and let her know the address if that’s okay. She’s been like a mother to me and I know she’ll be worried.” “That’s fine dear.” “Can I give her the phone number?” “Yes I don’t see why not. Mothers do worry.” “Well some mothers do.” Brian agreed as he headed toward his room. The first thing Brian did when he reached his room was telephone Debbie’s and let her know his new address and phone number. Michael wasn’t home which was good as far as Brian was concerned because he knew his friend would be upset to find out he was on the other side of the country. Then he unpacked his small bag, found some clean clothes and headed for the shower. Meanwhile in the west wing Stevi knocked on the heavy door that led inside that part of the house. She had a tray with sandwiches and fruit and a large jug of iced tea. She knew that Justin had made sure it was her before answering the door. She could practically feel his eyes on her through the camera lens. “I’ve brought you something to eat. You didn’t eat enough lunch and I thought you might be hungry.” Stevi said with a smile as she walked through the door. “If I was hungry I would have called down.” The voice was raspy and seemed at odds with the young man who stood looking out over the ocean. “No you wouldn’t.” She replied. “Did you see our new employee, Brian Kinney?” she asked though she knew Justin had watched every move the boy had made. “I saw him.” “He’s very good looking. He’ll be heartbreak handsome as he gets older.” “Maybe.” Justin turned. “That’s what they used to say about me.” “You are more beautiful than handsome, but beautiful is a good thing too.” She poured him a glass of iced tea. “Don’t lie; I know what I look like.” Justin turned back to the window. “Brian has a scholarship to the University of Washington. It’s a full scholarship. They don’t give out those casually. He must be quite brilliant.” “I wonder why he came here. It’s a long way from Pittsburgh?” Justin posed the question as he tried to sound somewhat disinterested but Stevi knew he was intrigued. It was part of the reason why she hired Brian. Justin desperately needed to come out of his self-imposed prison. “I’m sure he had his reasons. Young people always do. He called his friend’s mother to tell her where he was for the summer and not his own parents. I suppose that tells you something.” “Yes, something.” He sighed. “Don’t you have something to do downstairs?” “I’m leaving now. You sit down and eat your lunch.” “I had lunch.” “Eat this one too.” Stevi said with a smile as she walked to the door. “I’ll be back for the tray in an hour.” “Save yourself a step and take it now.” “No, you eat.” The door shut and Justin was left with the tray. He wandered over and then sat down to eat. Stevi always seemed to know when he was just being bitchy. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV Stevi, meddling as usual, came to my room to fill me in on Mr. Brian Kinney. I wanted her to leave me to my fantasies but she insisted on staying. I learned a few more things about Brian, yes, I’ll call him Brian. I’m glad he’s staying, he’s just the diversion I need this summer. Perhaps I’ll be able to paint something else besides the screaming in my head. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Brian quickly settled into the routine of La Cinquième Lune; he found the work outdoors to be peaceful and a time for him to think. It was different than the work he’d done at his parent’s house. There he was always tense; waiting for the next blow to come, the next biting remark, but here anything he did was appreciated by Stevi who wasn’t shy about lavishing praise on him. While he thought she was prone to exaggeration he did like the attention. Often when he worked in the gardens or inside the house he could feel that he was being watched, though he never saw anyone and could only assume there were cameras hidden somewhere that allowed the mysterious Mr. Taylor to spy on him. Brian didn’t like it much but the job paid well and he was living better than he ever had. He knew there was no invasion of his personal rooms and for that he was grateful. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV I spend countless hours now at my window watching him work in the yard. Stripped to the waist, his back and chest a delicious shade of brown, I long to lick the sweat from his body. His arms bulge with muscle. I can almost feel them on my fingertips and I paint, gawd how I paint. I draw him incessantly and paint him over and over knowing that he’ll soon be gone and all I will have for the rest of my life are this dabs of paint and pencil scribbles in these books. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ The best part of the job was the fact that he had free use of the black jeep. Stevi sent him on errands into Seattle often and he always took the opportunity to learn more about the city that would be home to him for the next four years. Brian had been working on the island for more than a month without ever catching a glimpse of the elusive Mr. Taylor so he was surprised when he woke up one morning to find a message on his computer screen. Mr. Kinney, I require a few paintings crated and taken to my gallery in downtown Seattle today. Please make some time early in the day for this. The crating material can be found in the shed by the garage. You may come to the west wing to see the size of the paintings in order to know how much of the lumber you will need for the crates. The shipping company will be here at one to take the paintings. I would like you to accompany them. You may follow the shipping truck in the jeep and supervise the unloading of my work. I will accept a written report from you as to the delivery. Use the house icon and send it when you return. JCT Brian read over the instructions and then printed them out. He’d take them to Stevi at breakfast. She’d know what he had to do. It was the first contact such as it was that he’d had with the owner of the island. “Good morning Brian.” Stevi greeted him when he walked into the kitchen. “I understand Mr. Taylor has a job for you today.” “Yes, I was going to tell you.” “He sent me a copy of your instructions. I must say I’m surprised. He’s very particular about his work and usually only lets his agent get near anything. Ethan must be busy.” “Ethan?” Brian sat at the table after pouring himself a mug of coffee. “Mr. Taylor’s agent, Ethan Gold, I’m sure you’ll meet him today when you take the paintings to the gallery. Ethan is rather protective of Mr. Taylor.” She wondered what the smarmy little grease ball would do when he saw Brian. It would almost be worth going in with the young man just to watch. “Here is a key to the west wing. Mr. Taylor suggests that you keep it with the rest of the keys for the property. He feels that you won’t take advantage of it and enter without permission.” “No I’d never do that.” Brian was pleased to be trusted, something that had never happened in his own house. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV The first of the paintings were finished. I knew it was some of my best work and I wanted to send them to the gallery. Ethan always had packed my work before, but I hated to think of his hands on Brian, or the canvas he was on so I sent the message to my auburn haired beauty and then had the pleasure of watching him work in my studio building the crates. I was so close to him I could have reached out and touched his hair if I wasn’t some kind of fucking coward hiding in corners, jailed in my own home. And Brian, he was so careful with my work as if he knew how much it meant to me. He watched over it and made sure it was safe. I knew he could be trusted, so few people can. Was giving him a key to my wing a show of the trust I had in him or a hidden plea for him to find me like some kind of princess locked away in a secret room? ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ After he’d finished breakfast and helped Stevi tidy the kitchen, Brian made his way to the west wing door. He nervously knocked on the door before using the key. He didn’t want to surprise Mr. Taylor. Just inside the room were ten paintings, each one wrapped in white cotton. Brian measured them and wrote down the measurements on a piece of paper. “I’m going to get the materials now Mr. Taylor” he said. He knew the man had to be close by, he could feel himself being watched. In the shed he found the materials and tools he’d need as well as detailed instructions as to how to build a shipping crate for canvas paintings. He was grateful for that, because he wasn’t exactly sure how he was supposed to build the crates. Brian knocked again before letting himself in to build the crates. “I’m back. It shouldn’t take too long to knock these together.” He felt silly talking to no one but somehow couldn’t see just working silently. Working quickly and efficiently Brian had the paintings carefully crated in less than three hours. “I’ll just clean up here now Mr. Taylor. I’ll be back when the shipping company arrives.” Brian tidied up the room and removed his garbage taking care to lock the door behind him. He had time to spend an hour weeding in the kitchen garden before taking a hasty shower and eating the sandwiches Stevi had ready for him. The shipping company arrived on schedule. Brian, not sure if he was supposed to or not, took the men up to the west wing. He knocked on the door and then unlocked it. “Mr. Taylor, the shipping company is here. I’m going to make sure everything is loaded okay.” “Who are you talking to kid?” one of the men asked. “Why don’t you just move these crates carefully to your truck.” Brian answered. “I just asked. There’s no one here.” “Can we get started please?” Brian crossed his arms and looked at the men. “No problem.” The guy said. Most of the paintings could be moved singly but a few required both men to carry them they were so large. It was half an hour before Brian was satisfied that the paintings had been moved and were secure in the truck. He ran upstairs and knocked on the door again but didn’t unlock it. “I’m leaving now.” He called and ran back downstairs. He was sure that Mr. Taylor must have surveillance cameras outside the door so he knew he was probably heard. Brian followed the shipping company’s truck into Seattle and finally to a gallery which surprisingly enough was called The Fifth Moon. He smiled to himself. He would have known it was Mr. Taylor’s place from the name alone. Parking the jeep a few doors down, he was in time to supervise the unloading of the crates into the gallery. Brian was taken aback when he first walked into the luxurious surroundings. A short dark haired young woman approached him. “Mr. Kinney, I understand you have Mr. Taylor’s shipment.” She said. “Yes” “Have it brought to the rear entrance please. I’ll unlock the door for you.” Brian nodded and then went to the truck and gave the driver instructions for the unloading of the crates in the rear of the building. When everything was unloaded to his satisfaction, Brian began to open the crates themselves. “What are you doing!” a greasy haired man screamed at him from the doorway of the storage room. Brian looked at the unkempt stranger and drawled, “what does it look like I’m doing?” He removed a painting and stood it against the wall. “Get away from those.” “No. I shipped them and I’m unpacking them. I will be reporting to Mr. Taylor about the condition of each one.” “Mr. Taylor never lets anyone other than me handle his work.” Brian continued to tear down the crates and remove the paintings. “Apparently he changed his mind.” “We’ll see about that.” The man said and he stormed off into the gallery. “Asshole” Brian muttered as he unpacked the last painting. He would have loved to have seen what he was unpacking but the white cotton prevented that and he didn’t want to look without his boss’ permission. He stacked the crating material outside the door and then went to find the gallery manager, locating her coming out of an office. Brian could hear the man inside yelling into the phone. “What do you mean he is busy? Tell him it’s Ethan and I have to speak to him now.” He paused. “Of course he wants to talk to me. Very well then” and the phone was slammed into its cradle. “Is he always like that?” Brian asked the manager. “Pretty much.” She said. “Thank you for uncrating the paintings.” “I had to make sure they were undamaged. Can you just check the condition of everything before I leave?” “Certainly Mr. Kinney.” “I’m Brian,” he said. “I’m Daphne.” She grinned at him. “I’m glad Justin has someone young out at the dismal place he lives in.” “Justin?” he said. “Oh you mean Mr. Taylor, I’ve never met him.” “You haven’t? I’ll have to talk to him about that.” She laughed and checked the paintings. “They look great. I’ll probably be seeing you again.” “Sure, I’ll be around.” Brian said as he left. He could feel the glare from the other man’s eyes burning into him and he turned and flipped him the finger. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV Daphne loves my fantasy lover. She spent ages on the telephone gushing about him and how wonderful he was, as if I didn’t already know. And Ethan hates him. Why does that not surprise me? I listened to Ethan’s rants and then hung up the phone. I don’t need that shit. Daphne said Brian would be the perfect man for her and if not her than me. If she only knew that I too think my life would be perfect if he was mine. But as long as I hide in my rooms it will never happen and soon he’ll be gone to the world of the University with others that are handsome and want him and don’t live in fear of the world. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Brian drove past The Cuff, a gay club he’d heard about on the Internet. He wished he had time to stop in. Maybe once he moved into the dorms he’d get over to it. He hadn’t been dancing in so long he figured he probably forgot how. Brian had always looked older than his age, so he didn’t expect to have a problem getting in whatever the legal drinking age in Seattle was. Stevi was no where to be found when Brian arrived back at La Cinquième Lune so he went right to his room and wrote up his report for Mr. Taylor. Justin, he liked the name and now that he knew his name, Brian began to wonder why he was so reclusive and what the man looked like. August passed with no more contact from Justin Taylor. Brian was busy preparing for the fall and helping Stevi with the harvesting of the garden. He learned how to can and to freeze the various vegetables and took a certain satisfaction in knowing he was partially responsible for the food Justin Taylor would eat during the next year. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV I know it’s unreasonable but as the days draw closer to September the seventh; I become more and more depressed at the thought of Brian leaving my life. I haven’t been able to eat or sleep properly. I have to think of a way to keep him in my life. Fuck, why can’t I just grow some balls and walk down the stairs and ask him to stay. So many times my hand has been on that doorknob only to find myself pulling it away. I know now I should have continued seeing the shrink after the accident, but I just couldn’t stand the pain of reliving those awful moments and now I’m paying for it with the loss of something beautiful. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ It was the Labor Day weekend and Brian was preparing to leave. He promised he’d stay until the seventh and he would. Brian never broke his promises. It was one of the reasons he seldom promised anything. He checked his bank balance on line and was surprised at how much he had saved. His expenses living at La Cinquième Lune were low and he really hadn’t taken much time off, preferring the peace and quiet of the island after living in the city for so many years. Brian figured he’d have lots of time to get back into city life once he began classes. At breakfast on the morning of September the third, Stevi sat down with him and said. “Brian, I know you’re leaving in a few days and I want you to know that both Mr. Taylor and myself have loved having you here. Mr. Taylor has decided to stay for the winter. He used to go to his home in Mexico, but this year he says he’s staying put. I just don’t feel comfortable with him here all alone. I’ll be going to my sisters like I always do for the winter months. I leave at the end of October and don’t return until the end of March. Would you consider living at the dorm during the week and returning here for the weekends and any holiday that you don’t return to Pittsburgh? It would make me feel so much better knowing that Mr. Taylor would have someone in this house at least two days a week. You may have the use of the jeep during the week to make it easier for you to return here. And if Mr. Taylor requires anything picked up from town, he can email you and you can bring it with you when you come out.” “So I would still have my old job in the summer when school is out?” Brian asked. “Of course dear. You could commute to school everyday if you don’t want to stay in the dorms. It will really be up to you and your schedule.” “I was kind of hoping to get out more socially once I left here.” Brian said thinking of The Cuff. “Brian, you don’t have to baby sit Mr. Taylor. He’s a grown man and quite healthy, he’s just a tad reclusive. You don’t have to stay in every night on his behalf.” “Good, then I’ll stay. I could use the extra money. I was going to look for a part time job and now I won’t have to. I’ll keep the dorm room in case I have a late project or something, but I’ll probably come back here most nights if that’s okay. I’m used to it here. What about Mr. Taylor’s meals once you’re gone?” “Mr. Taylor is an excellent cook. I imagine he’ll make sure that you have something each night for supper and you can fend for yourself for breakfast and lunch.” “And I just use the house mail on the computer if I need to ask him anything, is that right?” “That’s right and I’m sure he’ll use it to ask you things as well.” “Great. In that case I’m going to go into town and buy a lap top computer. I need a computer for school, but I wasn’t going to spend the money if I didn’t have a job.” “Before you go, let me talk to Mr. Taylor. I believe he has a considerable discount at one of the computer places downtown. He’ll give them a call on your behalf. You might as well save a few dollars when you can.” “That would be good. I’ll work in the garden this morning and go in later.” “I’ll tell Mr. Taylor what you decided. Stop in to see me before you go to town. I think I might have you pick up something from the store.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV I’m sure I held my breath the entire time Stevi was talking to Brian. Waiting for him to answer was agony. I could have shouted from the rooftops with joy when he agreed to stay. And then when he mentioned the computer, I was on the phone immediately to order up the best for him insisting that they install all the latest software he’d need for his business major and then convince him it was a demo model and vastly reduced in price. I even made them throw in a leather carrying case, one that was in their catalogue and priced at three hundred dollars. I told them to bill me for it. It would be my little gift to the man I loved. For love him I did though it would never come to anything. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ A weight had been lifted off of Brian’s shoulders. He had grown comfortable in the big old Victorian house surrounded by water. For the first time in his life he had privacy and felt safe. Living in the dorms would be exciting, but Brian knew that he would begin to resent the lack of privacy before long. And as much as he wanted to enjoy life at the University of Washington, he was there with a purpose and he didn’t want to lose track of that purpose. September and October went smoothly. Stevi was still in residence and while Brian returned most weekends, he didn’t always come to the island though he was in touch with Stevi everyday in case she needed something. He knew that there was a lot of speculation about him around the campus. He had both young men and women asking him out for coffee or study dates, but he refused them all. Brian wanted to remain focused. He was going to La Cinquième Lune for the October 31st weekend. Stevi was leaving on the Friday and Brian was afraid that the old mansion would attract unwanted visitors despite the gate at the causeway. It seemed strange driving up to the big old house knowing that it was only him and his elusive employer on the premises. Brian looked up at the Victorian mansion as he walked to the door. For a moment he thought he saw someone looking back, someone with a shock of blond hair. But he blinked at the image was gone. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin POV September and October were filled with highs and lows for me. Brian was at the house as much as he could be. I knew that beginning his University years would keep him busy, but I hadn’t realized just how busy. I painted until my legs ached from standing and then I painted some more. My muse had returned a hundred fold these days and he had auburn hair and dancing hazel eyes. I was overjoyed to know the Brian chose to spend the last weekend in October with me and when he gave me that wonderful present of watching him swim nude every night – well it made my whole year. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Brian could smell the savory smell of a stew when he entered the kitchen. The table had been set for one. A small chaffing dish was warming in the center of the table. Brian looked and it was filled with a stew that was topped with light fluffy dumplings. Just the kind of meal that was perfect for the raw October night. He washed his hands and sat down to eat his dinner. He hoped that Justin had eaten earlier or taken it to his room. Brian lingered over the dinner, enjoying what had to have been one of the best stews he’d ever eaten. Not sure whether Justin was watching or not, he picked up his glass of milk and made a toast. “To the chef, an excellent dinner and I thank you.” Clean up of the kitchen was swift. Waves were pounding on the shoreline and Brian could see the spray rise up in the air. He checked that the house was securely locked and then went into his room to study. Hours later Brian got up and stretched and following what had become his habit, he stripped off his clothes, threw on a thick terry bathrobe and slipped out the side door for the pool. He could see steam rising from the water though it was only ninety degrees, and that was far warmer than the air around it. Dropping the robe at the end of the pool Brian stood for a few moments enjoying the sea spray and the cold before diving in and beginning his hundred laps of the pool. Brian was pleasantly tired when he finished. He floated on his back for a few minutes before boosting himself out of the water and wrapping up in the robe. Swimming in his own pool alone was a luxury he loved, though he did use the University’s pool when he wasn’t at La Cinquième Lune. Somehow it just wasn’t the same. The weekend passed by uneventfully. Brian spent his days outside in the yard and his evenings studying before his nightly swim and bed. He got into the habit of talking to Justin when he was in the kitchen. Brian would carry on a one sided conversation with his employer about school, his studies, things he’d found in the yard. He even branched out to politics and little bits about his friends in Pittsburgh. On Sunday because he knew he’d be gone for a few days he said. “Look Justin, why don’t you wire my sitting room for sound, pictures too if you want. That way I can talk to you while I’m studying or watching television. I’m sure you have lots of better things to do than listen to me, but I find it rather lonely out here. It’s nice to know I’m not talking to myself.” He grinned up at the camera in the kitchen and finished cleaning the room. “I found this great bakery near the University. I’ll bring you something from it. I bet you miss Stevi’s baking. I know I hardly ate any of it and it always disappeared. I think you have a sweet tooth.” Brian laughed. He’d begun calling his employer Justin when Stevi left. He figured why be formal with someone he never saw. By thanksgiving Brian was at La Cinquième Lune more often at night than he was at the dorm. It just seemed right somehow to make the trip there. He hated leaving Justin alone when he did have to spend the night away. He always made sure to phone and leave a message on the answering machine when he couldn’t make it. Brian’s studies were going well, he was at the top of his class in all of his subjects. He brought treats home for Justin whenever he thought of it. He’d leave them on a tray outside Justin’s door. And even though he was tempted to wait and watch the other man open the door to get what he’d brought, Brian never crossed that line. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin’s POV Brian has taken to having long conversations with me. I answer him but of course he can’t hear. I know all about his life outside of La Cinquième Lune and I long to be part of it. I was so jealous when he talked about dancing the night away at The Cuff and I hate that he has quick liaisons in the back room there. If only we were together, he would never need anyone else. He’s made his friends in Pittsburgh seem so real to me. I can see Emmett and Michael and Debbie and Vic just as if they were sitting in front of me at my table. I want to make Thanksgiving special for him. Daphne has become his friend and I’ve asked her to help me make Brian’s Thanksgiving a good one. I will prepare all of the traditional things for him. I want him to know how important he is to me. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Brian also began to know Daphne better. They would take time to have a coffee at Starbucks every time he made a delivery or picked something up at the Gallery for Justin. She hadn’t told him yet why Justin was so reclusive, but Brian thought there was a good chance she would eventually. He wasn’t surprised to see her arrive on Thanksgiving weekend. “Hey Daphne – what brings you out here today?” “I’ve been summoned” she said with a laugh. “It seems a certain Mr. Taylor wants you to have a Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. He’s got everything ready and I just have to put it together and cook it.” “Will Justin join us for dinner?” Brian asked. “He will join us, but we won’t see him. He says he eats with you every day.” Daphne looked at him. “I hope you know what he means.” “I think so. I eat in the kitchen and I talk to him while I’m eating. I wasn’t sure if he was listening but it’s nice to know he is.” “I think it’s done him a world of good having you here Brian. He’s thinking of someone else now instead of himself. That’s a good thing.” “I wish he’d talk to me.” Brian said. “I’ve only heard his voice once.” “He doesn’t talk much since the accident Brian. I’m surprised you heard him the once.” “This accident, everyone mentions it, but no one says what it was.” “It’s really for Justin to tell you. It’s his story. He’ll tell you eventually I’m sure. Already you’ve gotten past a few barriers that no one else has.” “I have?” Brian was curious. “I haven’t done anything.” “He trusts you. You never cross that line - that invisible line he’s made himself hide behind. No matter what.” “I gave my word Daphne. I don’t break my promises. If I didn’t learn anything else from my father I learned that.” “Oh did your father always keep his word?” “Never” Brian looked away. “It became a point of honor with me to always keep mine.” “Some times life works that way.” Daphne looked around the large kitchen. “Justin tells me that everything is already cut, peeled, diced and chopped in the refrigerator. I’d better get too it.” “It’s nice of you to do this Daphne. I can help.” “I know you can Brian, but I’m sure you’ve got other things you can do.” “Can I ask you one question about Justin?” “You can ask, I don’t know if I’ll answer.” “How old is he?” “Not too old and not too young.” She laughed. “Justin if you’re listening why don’t you answer Brian.” Daphne turned back to taking things out of the fridge. “I’ll go get changed” Brian said. “I’m not dressed for company. I was cutting up some of the dead wood behind the house. One of the apple trees came down.” “That’ll be great for next winter’s firewood. I love the smell of burning apple wood.” “I never thought of that. I was going to save one of the larger pieces to dry out. I was hoping to make something from it.” “Go for it. I’m sure Justin won’t mind.” “I’ll do that.” Brian turned and headed for his room. His computer screen caught his attention as he walked past his desk. It was flashing the number twenty-three in sapphire blue against a pale yellow background. “Ahhh, Justin, so you’re an older man with blond hair and I bet your eyes are as blue as sapphires.” He smiled in the direction of the camera that Justin had installed the week after Halloween. “Thank you Justin for allowing me that tantalizing glimpse of you.” the screen became washed in pink and Brian laughed as he headed to the shower. Daphne knew that Brian would be waiting for dinner downstairs, but she wanted to make sure that Justin had everything he would need for his own dinner. Her tray was laden with plates and bowls. She could barely balance it when she kicked the door to announce her arrival. “Open the damn door Justin, this is heavy.” The door swung open and Daphne walked through. “Stevi is a lot more polite” he voice rasped. “I don’t have to be polite; I’m your dearest friend.” She said with a grin. “When are you going to stop with this beauty and beast shit and get your ass downstairs?” “Daphne, we’ve talked about it before. As long as I look like this and sound like this” he paused. “I’m sorry, but I just can’t face the looks I see on other people’s faces.” “Justin that’s bullshit.” Daphne was efficiently setting his table. “Brian is a great guy. He would treat you the same as he does anyone else.” Justin, his back still to Daphne as he looked at Brian on a monitor. “He’s beautiful Daphne.” “I know and so does half of Seattle, your show was an amazing success.” “You didn’t tell anyone who he was did you?” Justin looked at his friend, nervous that his muse had been identified. “Of course not. No one knows, but boy was Ethan pissed. He figures you and Brian are getting it on and you know he wants in your pants badly.” “Brian would never look twice at me. I bet he’s the most popular guy at the University.” “What ever.” Daphne surveyed her efforts. “Sit down and enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner.” “I will and Daphne thanks, I owe you one.” “You owe me more than one buddy and one of these days I’m going to collect.” “I love you Daphne. Thanks for being my friend.” Justin still remained at his computer monitor. “I love you too Jus.” Daphne smiled sadly. She would have loved to hug her friend, to kiss his cheek like she used to. But even though she was allowed in his rooms, she never was allowed to get close enough to touch him or to actually look into his eyes. “I’m going downstairs to have dinner with Brian.” “I’ll be there” “I know Jus, I know.” She shook her head trying to take away the sting of tears that threatened to fall. Her heart broke for her lonely friend. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ tbc.