Lois and Carolyn, thanks for the beta...you’re the greatest!
Chapter 49 – We Have News, Part 5 Meanwhile…(Day 47) Meanwhile in the limo heading toward Bri-tin…Justin, Paul, and Jason were chatting easily. “Things may still be a bit of a mess at the house,” Justin began to explain, “Brian and I just got back from New York yesterday afternoon. “You were in New York all this time?” Jason asked with some surprise, “I thought you were only supposed to be there for a day or so.” “That was the original plan, but Brian had some meetings, so we just stayed over. We’re probably going back again next week.” “Did Brian meet Spyder?” Jason had to ask, showing that his concerns were still ever-present. “Yes, and they got along great,” Justin pointed out with a laugh. “I tried to tell Jason that there was no need to worry, but you know how he is,” Paul teased. “Believe it or not, Spyder and Brian actually liked each other,” Justin revealed. “They spent a good deal of time together while we were in New York.” “No!” Jason said in complete amazement. “So you can stop fretting now and relax. Spyder isn’t a threat to anyone.” Justin finally set the record straight. “Ok, I can do that. I can’t believe that we’re here. And we’re going to see the mansion,” Jason said all excited. “Mom and Katie made us promise to take lots of pictures. They’re desperate for details. You know they wanted to come along on this trip, just so that they could see the house,” Paul teased. “I almost expected them to get off the plane with you,” Justin teased. “They really wanted to come. They tried to use the excuse that you were going to need them to watch Gus and Nicky, so we could all go to Babylon. It took some doing to get them to stay in Cincinnati. They made us promise to bring them the next time we came to visit,” Jason relayed with a laugh. “I’m going to look forward to their visit. You know how we feel about Fran and Katie. We have plenty of room, so they can stay with us,” Justin said with a laugh. “I’ll be sure to tell them,” Paul said with a laugh. “Okay look, just don’t expect too much when you see the house. Things are furnished, but we’re still living with rented furniture. And the way things are going, it will be quite some time before Brian and I have time to actually purchase furniture for the house,” Justin revealed. “Is that because of all your shows coming up?” Jason asked. “Partly, but mainly because Brian and I may be moving to New York, and all our energies are going to be focused on setting up a new place to live there, not to mention a new office for Kinnetik,” Justin answered. “I know that you’ve been living in New York for the last year, but I’m surprised that Brian was willing to finally take the plunge and move too,” Jason commented. “Brian has always wanted to be in New York,” Paul reminded them. “Even when we were in college, that was all he talked about. But he got the internship with Ryder and the rest is history. But I thought he was happy in Pittsburgh?” “I told you that we’ve decided to live together. I was ready to move back to Pittsburgh. Let’s face it… I can pretty much paint anywhere. But Brian thought that it was better to move to New York. He has a few clients with offices there, and then he landed a few new accounts, so he’s decided to open a New York office,” Justin explained. “Things must be happening pretty quickly, you guys didn’t mention anything about your New York plans when we talked last week,” Jason commented. “You’re right, things are happening really fast. This move to the city is happening sooner than we expected. Brian did well not to complain too much this week when he stayed at my loft, but I know we really can’t live there,” Justin said with a sigh. “So we have to find a new place to live.” “That’s wonderful. That means that you can still pursue your career in New York, doesn’t it?” Jason added. “I think that the fact that I could still benefit from being in New York, might be part of reason that Brian started thinking seriously about New York again. Anyway, the decision has been made. Now we just have to make it work,” Justin said joyfully. “How is the family dealing with the news about your move?” Paul cautiously asked. “No one knows about it yet, and I’m going to ask you not to mention it to anyone while you’re here. My mother knows because she’s a realtor, and we’re going to need her help to pull this off. But we haven’t said anything to the rest of the family. We want to get set up before we tell them. So please, don’t say anything to anyone while you’re here,” Justin pleaded. “My lips are sealed,” Jason promised. “Mine too,” Paul agreed. “There’s something else that I have to tell you,” Justin said and then paused. “More, I love it,” Jason cooed. “Jason…” Paul protested. “This morning, Brian and I signed papers to legalize our domestic partnership,” Justin revealed nonchalantly. “What?” Jason responded with some excitement. “No! I can’t believe it,” Paul said. “How on earth did you get Brian to take that step? He’s always been so against this sort of thing.” “I didn’t do anything. This was Brian’s idea. I just made sure that we stayed equal partners,” Justin explained. “You guys just can’t do anything simple. You can’t simply get married. You and Brian have to go all the way and bind yourselves together legally forever,” Jason teased. “We don’t need vows or rings to prove that we love each other. Brian wanted to be sure that we’re legally bound, and that our union had the force of law. This way everything is all legal. We signed papers to register our legalized domestic partnership here and in New York. This all happened this morning, and it should be about a week before it’s published in the papers,” Justin continued to explain. “How is the Liberty Avenue family taking THIS news, or is this something else that you and Brian haven’t bothered to tell them?” Paul asked, already figuring out that possibility. “So much going on today, that we only had time to tell my mother and Debbie. Oh yes…and Brian told Ted and Cynthia, at the office during their morning meeting,” Justin revealed. “Well congratulations,” Paul said, reaching over to hug Justin. “I’m really happy for you and Brian. You guys have been in love with each other for so long. I’m just glad that you finally sealed the deal.” “Me too,” Justin whispered. “Congratulations Jus,” Jason said, also hugging his friend. “Don’t worry, we’ll keep your secret while we’re here, but as soon as we get back to Cincinnati we have to tell Mom, Katie, Lee, Gabrielle, and let’s not forget Glenn. I’m sure Glenn will be the happiest of all. For some reason he hasn’t stopped talking about you and Brian all week,” Paul said with a laugh. “I thought that your office would simply return to normal after we left,” Justin suggested. “Although you have to admit, everybody really pitched in to make the party a success.” “They never had so much fun,” Jason admitted with a laugh, “Are you kidding? All week long, everyone was still passing around the pictures from the party every chance they got.” “Before we left Cincinnati, I sent a few emails back to everyone here, and I included a few of the digital images that we had. Everybody seemed to really love seeing the pictures of Nicky’s party as he turned four,” Justin explained. “Wait until you see the professional shots…especially the ones of you and the kids. They are great. You probably don’t remember, but they captured shots of you drawing with the kids during the party. They are wonderful,” Jason added joyfully. “I love the ones where Gus and Nicky climbed on your laps to rest from all the excitement,” Paul added with a laugh. “Those are precious. Nicky is so crazy about you and Brian, you can just see it in the pictures.” “By the way, did you figure out the Mickey Mouse Pancakes thing?” Justin asked hesitantly. “I was going to work on that after you left, but Nicky informed me that it wasn’t necessary. He said that we were coming to see you this weekend, and he knew that Gus would make sure that you made Mickey Mouse Pancakes. So I guess I should warn you about your godson’s expectations,” Jason said cautiously. “You realize, of course, that we have no idea what Gus and Nicky talk about when we’re not around?” Justin pointed out, “This just proves my point,” he added with a laugh. “By the way, Paul, did you, by any chance, remember to pack one of your designer shirts for Nicky to wear when he paints?” Paul immediately started to complain. “Jason made sure, that was the first thing in the suitcase. Although for the life of me, I don’t understand why it’s necessary. Just because Brian is willing to sacrifice his designer shirts for Gus’ creativity is no reason the rest of us have to follow suit,” he said in mock protest. Justin and Jason couldn’t help laughing at Paul’s mock outrage. “This is great. Nicky will have a chance to be messy. His creativity will have a chance to be released. I think his creativity has been stifled long enough. I’ve been really worried about him. You two are so compulsively neat…it’s not good for a little kid,” Justin reminded them. “You two should talk to my mother while you’re here. You’ll see that she agrees with me.” Paul and Jason just shook their heads. At that moment, the car approached the driveway at Bri-tin, and Paul and Jason got really quiet as they got their first glimpse of the house. Justin couldn’t help smiling at their reaction. “Well, here we are,” Justin said as the car pulled into the driveway. When the limo came to a complete stop, the ever-present Thomas came out to meet them, this time followed by Teres. “Well, there you are, Justin. Teres and I have been waiting for you.” Thomas said in greeting. “Now where’s Gus?” “Gus’ plane should be arriving soon. He’ll be coming a little later with Brian,” Justin explained. “Oh…” Thomas said. “Thomas, these are our friends; this is Paul and Jason. They will be staying with us all weekend. Paul…Jason, this is Thomas and Teres. They take really good care of us and the house,” Justin revealed. There were greetings and handshakes all around. “Teres, I’ve heard a lot about you,” Jason added, “You and Justin are always plotting in the kitchen. I’m sure preparing meals for Brian is a real challenge.” Teres couldn’t help from smiling about the fact that Justin actually talked about her with his friends. “I fixed some snacks for you to munch on while you’re waiting. I thought you might be hungry,” Teres suggested, “But I’ll let you get settled first, then you can join me in the kitchen.” “That sounds great, I think we’ll take a moment to relax, and then we’ll be right there, Teres,” Justin said thoughtfully. “Why don’t you all go inside? I’ll retrieve your luggage, and put everything in your rooms,” Thomas insisted. “Perfect, thanks,” Justin said with smile. Justin, Paul and Jason left Thomas to deal with the luggage. At that moment the exterior lights came on, and Paul and Jason were able to get their first breathtaking view of the magnificence of Bri-tin. “Oh my god” and “Wow” was all that Paul and Jason could utter. They were definitely overwhelmed. *** So much had happened so quickly, that now Paul and Jason needed a moment to catch their breath, so they all stopped in the living room, and Justin flipped on the fireplace. Everyone made themselves comfortable, and the three friends started to relax. “I love the house,” Paul said, finally finding his voice. “At least what I’ve seen of it so far, ” he teased. “I can sure see why you and Brian can relax here,” Jason added. “Well, I’m going to go and see if I can rustle up those snacks from Teres,” Justin began, “The way you two are behaving, I know that you’ll need food before you’ll be ready to take a tour of the house,” he teased. “How did you know that?” Paul teased. “Don’t pay any attention to him, Jus, he’s just teasing you,” Jason replied. “We love your house. Now, I’m going to follow you to the kitchen. Hopefully, you’ll show me your studio on the way?” “I’m going to just sit here and enjoy the fireplace. I’ll just wait for you two to return. I know how you two are whenever art is involved, ” Paul mumbled, making himself more comfortable in one of the over sized chairs. Justin followed by Jason, headed toward Justin’s studio. On the way to the studio, they passed by Brian’s study, and Jason took a quick peek. His eyes immediately fell on the painting hanging on the wall. “I saw that painting on your website, and I loved it. The website said that Brian owned it. I must say that it’s more beautiful when you see the real thing. What’s it called?” Jason asked. “Talisman Of Time,” Justin said simply. “It’s different than your usual stuff, but I like it,” Jason mumbled. Thomas stopped them in the hallway as he passed by, “Justin, some packages arrived for you this morning. I noticed, you sent them to yourself, so I put them in your studio.” “Thanks, Thomas,” Justin said. Then he turned to Jason and said, “ I had a few paintings in my studio in New York that I wanted to move here. By the way Thomas, do you have a set of tools handy? They actually crated the paintings before they were shipped. I can’t remember what we did with my tool-set. They’re probably still under the seat of the SUV riding around Pittsburgh with Brian.” “No problem, I’ll bring you some tools. I’ll even come back later and help you open those crates if you want. Just let me know.” “That would be great, thanks, I really hated to ask,” Justin stated. “I know you do,” Thomas teased with a smile. “I’ll be right back.” Justin and Jason continued the rest of the way to the studio. Jason looked at the way the studio was equipped, and he couldn’t help teasing Justin, “Is there anything you don’t have in here?” Justin couldn’t help laughing, “Not really. Brian furnished and equipped my studio as a surprise for me while I was still in New York. All those things that I used to dream about, he got them for me. That’s why this room is so special.” “And you allow Gus in here while you’re painting?” Jason asked incredulously. “Yes, Gus dresses in one of Brian’s shirts, and he likes to finger paint and draw over in the corner there. Sometimes he just curls up on the floor to read one of his books. Gus doesn’t think I should be alone when I paint,” Justin said with a laugh. “Most artists can’t work with anyone around. How do you do it?” “I guess it’s a carryover from my time at PIFA. I usually like to have my workspace to myself, but I’m so used to painting while I was babysitting Gus that I just got used to it. Lindsay doesn’t understand it either,” Justin laughed. “You know, Brian had this idea that if Paul and I brought Nicky for a visit that Gus would leave you alone so you could get some painting done,” Jason recounted Brian’s grand plan. “Did he tell you?” “Yes, he told me,” Justin said with a laugh. “It was really thoughtful of him. He was trying to be a good partner.” “But Jus, neither Nicky nor Gus are usually willing to let you out of their sight. What are you going to do?” Jason had to ask with some concern. “I’d rather have Gus and Nicky covered with paint in my studio than see them restrained because I needed to be sequestered to paint. I’m going back to New York on Monday, so I can finish the painting to submit to Milan. I’ll get some painting done then. So you really shouldn’t worry about it too much,” Justin said, gently touching Jason’s arm. “And I’m sure that Nicky and Gus will get in plenty of playtime this weekend.” At that moment, Justin’s cell phone rang. Justin answered and found out that Brian was taking the kids to get a snack before they came home. Justin relayed the information to Jason. Then he said, “Let’s go see Teres and get those snacks that she made for us, so we can enjoy them in front of the fire. It will be awhile before Brian gets here. I’ll finish dealing with all this stuff later.” Justin closed the door to his studio, and he and Jason headed toward the kitchen to retrieve the snacks and drinks that Teres had prepared. *** “Jus, we’re really glad to be here. Nicky has talked about nothing else all week. Between the party and this trip, he’s going to remember turning four years old for a very long time,” Jason teased. “Jason and I don’t know how to thank you for coming early and for all the planning and the decorations and everything that you created for the party. You saved Nicky from just a quiet family celebration for his fourth birthday,” Paul said quietly. “Look, you have to know that Brian and I are crazy about Nicky. So we were glad to be a part of helping you plan his party,” Justin reminded them. “But Jus, Paul and I took advantage of you, and we’re so sorry,” Jason explained. “We knew that you had an impossible painting schedule leading up to the exhibits. You told us that over an over, but we imposed upon our friendship and begged you to come early anyway because we really needed you. We just couldn’t do anything about the party until you got here.” “I knew something was going on, but you never said anything. I didn’t want to bring it up while I was there last week, but what was going on with you two? You guys run an ad agency. Surely you could have put a simple birthday party together for a four-year-old. What happened?” Justin demanded to know. “Brian asked us the same questions last week. In fact he read us the riot act about our behavior. He really made us see what assholes we were being. He knew something was off kilter because Jason was more annoying in his pleading to you. My calls to him were more frequent, making sure you were actually coming. Once he saw the way things were going, he made us face some hard truths about ourselves,” Paul admitted sadly. “He even threatened to take Nicky back home with him if we didn’t get ourselves together.” “Brian did that?” Justin asked with some surprise. “Look Justin, you know this time is always a little difficult for Paul and me. But we were getting to be ok about Alex,” Jason tried to explain. “I know that things get a little weird for you around the time of Nicky’s birthday? I understand about that, I even factored that in, but that doesn’t explain the way things were. So what happened?” Justin continued to question. “This year on top of everything else, Nicky started with the mantra that he wanted a little brother or sister. And he wanted this sibling delivered by his birthday,” Jason explained. Justin burst out laughing. “I don’t know why you think that’s funny,” Jason began to protest. “Jason, every little kid says that at some point, especially when he’s an only child. Then when they get the requested brother or sister, they began the childhood quest of how to send said brother or sister back where they came from. Nicky just needs to talk to Gus.” “Gus wanted to send Jenny back?” Jason asked in horror, being an only child he was finding this was a totally new perspective. “Yes he did. I did too. Look, I’m the oldest. I love my sister. But a younger brother or sister is a constant source of aggravation. Isn’t that right, Paul? I’m sure that Gus will fill Nicky in on these facts of life. As much as Gus loves Jenny, I’m sure she drives him crazy too.” “Poor Gus, no wonder he likes to hang out here with you and Brian,” Jason teased. “Yeah, here he gets some peace and quiet,” Justin teased. “Not to mention that here he’s probably the center of attention,” Jason added. “I’m not sure about that. When Gus is here, we just go about our normal routine, but we just include him in everything that’s going on,” Justin pointed out. “We don’t really do that much special for him.” “Anyway, when Nicky wanted a sibling it brought the whole Alex thing up again.” “I can understand that,” Justin said. “Then Paul and I were at odds over the issue of another kid, and we couldn’t really discuss it. We couldn’t talk about it with the family.” “Nicky wanted the sibling to be delivered for his birthday, so Paul and I had to try to explain to a three year old where babies come from. Believe me, that’s not an easy conversation at any age. It’s even harder when you’re a gay couple. And when you’re a gay couple, your parents can’t really help with this.” Once again, Justin burst out laughing. “Justin, I’m glad that you find our struggles so amusing,” Paul said. “It’s not that. If you had said something to us on the phone, Brian and I could have probably helped. You didn’t have to go through this alone…that’s what friends are for.” “We didn’t think about that,” Paul said. “So you explained where babies come from to Nicky. Is everything ok now?” Justin asked. “Yeah, except. We’re still trying to discuss the issue of another child,” Jason said. “And…” Justin asked. “We’re still at an impasse,” Jason pointed out. “Wow. That’s a lot to deal with,” Justin admitted, with a touch of understanding. “It’s just been a difficult time. Jason is an only child, but I grew up in a large family. We each had different growing up experiences. You remember it took us a long time to decide to have kids in the first place. We’re also not sure if Gabrielle is up to going through another pregnancy, especially since she had such a difficult time before. We can’t talk about this with the family until we reach some kind of decision between ourselves, because you know they will be all over us about this,” Paul explained. “Mom and Katie would love to have another grandchild to spoil.” “You know that you could get another surrogate,” Justin suggested. “We have talked about it,” Paul answered. “Or you could even adopt. Ohio has some of the most liberal adoption laws with respect to gays in the country…or at least that is what I read,” Justin added. “Compared to some places in the country that’s true,” Jason pointed out. “And with the last election the voters also passed legislation to ban discrimination of gays, too. So I will admit that Cincinnati is becoming a nicer place to live.” “But the issue isn’t whether Nicky wants a sibling…the question is whether you two want another child. And that’s a question only you two can answer,” Justin reminded them. “We’re working on it. But whatever we decide about that, we want you to know how much we appreciated the way you stepped in and took over everything. You did all the things we should have done, and we just want you to know how much we appreciate you,” Jason said. “I’m glad I was able to help. And now that you’re here, you can talk to Lindsay and Melanie this weekend, it may help you with your decision,” Justin suggested. “That’s a good idea,” Jason said pensively. The three friends continued to chat easily while they munched on their snacks. *** “So now that we’ve had our sustenance, why don’t you take us on a tour of the house? We’ll probably need the remainder of the night to see everything,” Paul teased. “Yes, do you think that Brian will be able to find us when he brings Gus and Nicky back here?” Jason joined Paul in his teasing. “Are you two finished? Just so you know when we’re in the house, Brian makes me carry my cell phone so we can talk to each other…” Justin explained. “Not to mention probably locate each other, too. They haven’t perfected GPS technology to work in houses just yet,” Paul added. “So now that you’ve finished your comedy routine, let me show you the house,” Justin said, finally standing up. Paul and Jason also stood up and began to follow Justin. Justin showed Jason and Paul the lower level of the house. He pointed out the media room, his studio, and Brian’s study. Justin also directed Jason and Paul to the hot tub and showed them the pool. Needless to say, they were suitably impressed. Paul and Jason teased Justin that they were definitely considering a trip to the hot tub before their visit was over. Justin took care to show them the special features of the hot tub area and the location of towels and robes as well as condoms and lube. As they were proceeding upstairs, Justin’s cell phone rang again. This time it was Brian again…or rather Gus, letting him know that they were on their way home. Justin continued to show his guests the upstairs as he updated them on Brian and the kids. Justin quickly passed Gus’ room, suggesting that Paul and Jason should ask Gus to give them a personal tour of his bedroom. Paul and Jason smiled. Paul and Jason did get to see the second bedroom that Justin had set up for Gus and Nicky for this weekend. They couldn’t get over how special they thought it was that Justin had gone to so much trouble for them. Justin directed Paul and Jason to the guest room he had selected for them. Paul couldn’t resist testing out the bed. “Justin this is so comfortable.” “My pleasure,” Justin said. “Well Paul, since you’re so comfortable, why don’t you two relax a bit until Brian gets here with the kids? If you need me, call me on my cell phone; I’ll be down in my studio. I have a few paintings I need to unpack,” Justin suggested, as he turned to leave. Paul took one look at Jason and smiled. “Why don’t you go ahead down to the studio with Justin? I can tell by the look on your face that’s where you want to be. I’ll unpack our things, and then I’ll stretch out for a few minutes and relax until Brian gets here.” “He’ll probably be here in about a half-hour,” Justin indicated. “No problem,” Paul said, making himself more comfortable on the bed. *** A few moments later, Thomas joined Justin and Jason in the studio. “Here we go Justin,” Thomas said. “I think I have the tools we need…now how do we open these monstrosities?” Justin couldn’t help but laugh at Thomas’ comment. He had been packing and unpacking paintings for so long that he had forgotten how strange it might be for someone else when it was their first time. Jason moved over to the futon so that he was out of the way, while Justin and Thomas opened the crates. Justin carefully removed the paintings and leaned some of them against the studio wall. Jason became silently entranced, as the paintings were unpacked. Once all the crates were unpacked, Thomas removed the packaging materials from the studio. “I’ll store the packing material in the barn, in case you need it, Justin,” he remarked, as he was leaving. “Thanks Thomas,” Justin called out, before returning his attention back to the paintings. “Oh Justin, these are wonderful. Are these for your show?” Jason asked. “No…no, these were just random paintings. Sometimes I just get in the mood to paint. Usually when I exhibit, I like the paintings connected by some theme. I’m still a fairly new artist, so I don’t have a lot of paintings lying around. And I have been fortunate that usually when I exhibit, usually my paintings tend to sell out. But sometimes I do show paintings are just too personal to sell, and after the Santa Barbara show, I now have this reputation for showing artwork, and then deciding not to sell it. That very bad habit has gotten me a significant amount of media attention,” Justin said with a smile. “That and the fact that you’re a wonderful artist,” Jason added. “Maybe…that too,” Justin agreed with a smile. Jason’s eyes fell on the painting of Brian among the rumpled sheets. He simply clutched his chest and simply said with a sigh, “Magnificent…” “I sketched it one morning when Brian was sleeping. Brian seemed to like the drawing when he saw it. You know when had I my first show at the GLC…I think I was 17…I did a similar sketch of Brian. Someone paid $100 for that sketch; of course, the money went to charity. But I remember what it felt like that someone liked my work enough to buy it. It was my first real sale. My skills were so limited then. I’m a much better artist now…I don’t know who bought the original sketch, but I wanted Brian to have this one,” Justin revealed. “He’s going to love it. The painting is going to be like a wedding present,” Jason said, always thinking romantically. “Oh please, don’t use the word wedding when you’re around Brian,” Justin practically pleaded. “He still sees weddings as a meaningless ritual. Legalizing our domestic partnership was so much better. Now we’re legally bound to each other as equal partners forever. As for the wedding thing…we were committed to each other before we signed those papers, and we’re still committed to each other...rings and ceremonies are unnecessary.” “He’s still going to love it.” Jason argued. “I hope so,” Justin added. Jason finally pushed himself off of his comfortable spot on the futon. “Thanks for letting me take a peek at some of the paintings. I’ll leave you to your work. I’m going upstairs and see if Paul needs any help with the unpacking,” Jason finally said as he turned to leave. “Sure and I’ll call you when Brian gets here,” Justin agreed. Justin decided that he should also go and let Teres know that Brian and the kids were on their way home, so that she could handle dinner. Justin had to admit to himself that it was going to be nice to have another home cooked meal after all the days of take out. Teres would also prepare something that Brian would probably eat without too much complaining.