On a sunny afternoon in May, Justin was painting in his studio at their home in rural Pennsylvania. They had sold the West Virginia property after Justin moved to New York. The commute from the city was just too long for Brian. A year ago they bought this property south of Washington, PA. The house sat on 15 acres of mostly wooded property. Ten Mile Creek flowed thru their property and fed a small pond visible from the house. The house itself required complete renovation before they could move in. By the time Justin moved back from New York the renovations were completed. Justin's studio was part of an addition at the rear of the house. The first floor was the pool house, with storage, bathrooms & dressing rooms. The second floor was the studio built to Justin's specifications. It could be accessed from the second floor hallway and also from the back stairway.  

Justin's cell phone rang; a quick look at the display showed the call was coming from the Kinnetik office. Justin answered, "Hey stud, what's up, as if I didn't know?"

After a quick laugh, Cynthia, the office manager, replied, "Sorry to disappoint you, Justin, but this is Cynthia."

Justin could feel his cheeks get warm as he blushed, although he knew Cynthia was not shocked by his comments.

"Cynthia, sorry. What can I do for you?"

"How was Brian feeling over the weekend?"

Justin frowned as he answered, "He had a cold, but you know Brian. He refused to rest or take care of himself. I asked him how he felt this morning and he said fine."

"Well I went into his office a few minutes ago and he was lying on the couch with his arm over his eyes. He has been in a foul mood all day, even for Brian!  His eyes are glassy, and as soon as he sat up he started to cough. I think he has the flu. You know he always refuses the flu shot even though we give them here at the office."

Justin sighed and shook his head. "He is the most stubborn person I know and he hates being sick. I am going to get some stuff together here and then I'll drive up to Kinnetik. Thanks for calling. And please don't let him leave until I get there."

Justin quickly cleaned his brushes and went down to the kitchen.  Alice Simpson, their housekeeper, was having lunch at the kitchen table with her husband Charlie who took care of the property. They lived in the caretaker's cottage a short distance from the main house.  The Simpsons owned a farm a short distance from the house where Brian and Justin often stopped there for produce. One weekend shortly before Justin moved back, Mrs. Simpson mentioned they were turning over the farm to their eldest son and his family and going to take an apartment in Glyde.  Brian offered them the jobs as housekeeper and caretaker on the spot. After thinking about it for a couple days, they accepted.

"Justin, are you ready for lunch? I can fix you something and bring it up to the studio if you are painting."

"Thanks, Alice, but Cynthia just called me to say she thinks Brian has the flu. I am going to go up there and check things out. If Brian really is as sick as she thinks, I am going to take him to the loft. We'll be closer to the doctor and stores there. Would you please get the ice chest out of the garage and load it up with some of your chicken & vegetable soups that we have frozen?"

Alice got up from the table. "Charlie, bring that ice chest in for me.  Justin, what else do you need us to get ready for you?"

"Thanks, Alice, but I am going to change and pack some comfortable clothes for Brian and some extra sheets. I'll stop at Giant Eagle on my way to Kinnetik and get some other supplies. Cynthia is going to make sure Brian stays put at the office." On his way upstairs his cell rang again "Hi, this is Justin."

"Justin, this is Ted. I just had Brian sign some documents for me. I think he is really sick. His hand felt hot when he handed the papers to me, and his eyes are kind of glassy. From the look of his trash can, I think he has gone through about three boxes of Kleenex already."

"Cynthia called me a few minutes ago. I am getting ready to head up to Kinnetik. Do me a favor and block the Corvette with your car. I don't want him leaving before I get there. If Brian finds out and threatens to fire you, tell him I will rehire you at twice your salary."

Ted laughed "I'll take care of it,  Let me know if you need anything else."

"Thanks, Ted."

Thirty minutes later Justin was loading grocery bags into the back of his SUV and heading for Kinnetik.  Less than an hour after the call from Cynthia, Justin walked into the Kinnetik office. He asked the receptionist to let Cynthia & Ted know he was in the building.  Justin tried the knob to Brian's office and was surprised it was locked. Luckily he had brought his Kinnetik badge, which he ran through the slot beside the door.  He went through the unlocked door. Brian was lying on the couch but sat up quickly, ready to blast whoever came into office without at least knocking.

Sitting up so quickly brought on a coughing fit and it was a couple moments before he could say anything. "Justin! What are you doing here?"

"I was in the neighborhood and thought I'd stop by to see you."

"Bullshit! Who the fuck called you? Cynthia or Theodore? Whoever it was will be looking for a new job."

"Actually it was both of them who were worried about you. If you fire them, I will hire them back at twice their salary.  So that is not a good plan."

Brian gave him a disgusted look that Justin ignored. He walked over to Brian and felt his forehead before Brian could twist away from him. "Brian you have a fever and you look like shit. Your breathing sounds like a coffee maker. I think you have the flu."

"I just have a cold; I didn't sleep too well last night, so I thought I'd grab a quick nap before driving home."

"I think we need to call the doctor and stay at the loft. That way we'll be closer to the doctor, stores & the family."

"I'm fine; you go home and I'll just finish a couple things here and head home."

"OK, how about we take your temperature?  If your fever is lower than 101, you get to do things your way. If it is over 101, you have to do what I want."

"I don't have a thermometer here in my office."

Justin reached into his pocket and brought out a brand new digital thermometer he had just bought. He opened the package, turned it on and handed it to Brian. The brunet cleared his throat, managed a quick cough and headed towards his desk.

"No fair drinking ice water. Put the thermometer in your mouth now!"

Brian saw the look on Justin's face and stuck the thermometer under his tongue. Meanwhile, Justin sat down at Brian's desk and started to save any active files on the computer before he shut it down. Brian grunted at him.

"I am saving everything that you have open." The thermometer beeped and Justin was quickly at his partner's side. He looked at the reading and smiled "Just as I thought  - 102.3! We are leaving for the loft now."

Brian had a look of disgust on his face, but he knew better than to argue with Justin. "OK, I'll meet you there in about an hour."

"Nope! Your precious Corvette will be perfectly safe in the garage here. We are leaving now and you are riding with me to the loft. Your laptop is shut down, so put it in your case, along with anything else you need, and let's go."

Brian sighed dramatically but did as he was told. While Brian gathered his paperwork, his better half called the doctor's office and gave the nurse a rundown of Brian's symptoms. As they left his office, Brian gave a dirty look to Cynthia & Ted who were standing by his assistant's desk.

Justin gave them a smile. "Thanks again for the calls. We are headed over to the loft. If he has any appointments for Monday I think you should reschedule those just to be safe."

"Justin! I will be back in the office on Monday; don't get carried away with yourself."

"You will be back in the office when you are feeling better and not before. Don't be such a butthead!"

An extremely annoyed Brian followed the blond to his SUV parked in front of the building. Shortly after they got into the car, Brian's cell rang. It was a return call from his doctor.  He grunted some answers while giving Justin an annoyed look.

"Body pains? My main problem is a persistent pain in the ass. OK, seriously I do feel kind of achy."

Justin just shook his head and told Brian to have any prescriptions called into Liberty Drugs.

Brian ended the call, closed his eyes and reclined his seat. He would never admit it, but he felt horrible and before Justin showed up he was wondering how he would be able to drive home feeling as bad as he did. A few minutes later they were pulling into the parking lot at the loft. Brian sat up, grabbed his briefcase and did his best not to groan as he got out of the car. Justin grabbed his rolling duffel out of the back of the car and led the way to the elevator. Once in the loft Brian dropped his briefcase and headed to the bedroom. Justin unzipped the duffel and got out a cotton T-shirt & boxers, taking them into the bedroom.

"I brought you some comfortable stuff for you to wear." He threw the clothes at Brian and went into the bathroom; a couple seconds later he emerged with the blow dryer in his hand. He went over to the bed, plugged in the dryer and pulled back the top sheet before turning the hair dryer on.

Brian looked over at him in amazement. "Sunshine, what the fuck are you doing?"

"My Mom always did this for Molly & me when we were sick. It makes the sheets all warm and cozy. We always said that Mom enjoyed us being sick. She could give full reign to all her maternal instincts and overwhelm us with attention."

Brian just shook his head and climbed into bed.  He hated to admit it, but the warm sheets felt great.

Justin gave him a smile and headed for the kitchen; he was back in a minute with aspirin and a bottle of water. "Take these and relax while I get the rest of the stuff I brought out of the car."

Once he had brought all his supplies up to the loft, Justin heated some of the chicken soup he had brought. He put some Ritz crackers on a plate and poured a glass of ginger ale, both of which he bought at the Giant Eagle on his way to Kinnetik. He remembered Debbie telling him a story about Brian and Michael both getting sick with a stomach virus at her house. She and Vic had to keep them supplied with Pepsi and saltines for Michael and ginger ale & Ritz crackers for Brian. He poured the hot soup into a large mug, put it on a tray table with the soda and crackers and took it into the bedroom. Brian was laying there with his eyes closed. "Hey, Brian, you need to eat something. Here's some of Alice's chicken soup with some crackers and soda."

Brian sat up; when he spotted the ginger ale & Rita crackers, he got a puzzled look on his face. "Sunshine, when did you ever see me drink ginger ale?"

Justin laughed. "Never, but a little bird told me that ginger ale & Ritz are your favorite foods when you are sick."

"I think it was probably a not so little bird named Debbie."

Justin laughed. "Be a good boy and eat your soup and crackers.  I'm going to call the drug store and see if they can deliver your prescriptions." 

Finding out the pharmacy would send them right over a few minutes later, Justin told them to call on the house phone downstairs and he would buzz them up. Justin checked on Brian who had finished his soup and crackers and was lying with his eyes closed. "Bri, try not to go to sleep yet. Your medicine will be here soon and I want you to start on that right away."

"Justin, you are being just a little annoying.  Just how long does this "do as I say" bit continue?"

Justin laughed. "My opinion is that I am in charge around here until you are over this bout with the flu, so get used to it."

Brian just gave him a disgusted look before closing his eyes again.

Just then the phone rang. Justin went over and pushed the code to open the lower level door. 'Wow, the guy must have run all the way from Liberty Drugs; he must expect a big tip." He slid open the loft door and stepped outside. He was shocked when the elevator opened and Brian's sister, Claire, walked out.

"Claire! What are you doing here?"

"I need to talk with Brian. I called his office and they said he left for the day. I thought I would try here before driving all the way down to his house."

"Brian is sick in bed. What do you want?"

"He's sick? Does he have AIDS?"

Justin was horrified. "Why would you say that about your own brother?  He has the flu! I was waiting for a delivery from the drug store, which is why I buzzed you in. Just what do you want?"

Claire shrugged. "With his life style, I don't think that was too off base. I need to talk to him about the roof on my mother's house. It needs to be repaired, and it's going to cost $25,000.00."

"That seems like a lot of money to replace a not very large roof, but just why do you think Brian will care about your mother's roof?"

"Well, mother doesn't have that kind of money and neither do I. I'm sure it will be a drop in the bucket for Brian. She needs him to pay for it."

"Why would Brian pay all that money for your mother's roof?  He paid off the three mortgages on the house when your father died. Joan can get a home equity loan or a reverse mortgage to pay for the roof." Claire started for the door, but Justin blocked the way.

"I want to talk to my brother. This is a FAMILY matter and doesn't really concern you. I'm sure Brian will still have enough money to buy you whatever you want."

"Brian is sick in bed and I will not let you disturb him. We are a couple and what concerns Brian, concerns me. I'll let Brian know about the roof, but I don't think you should count on any money from us. You and your mother act like Brian doesn't exist until you need money. I think it is time the Bank of Brian closed out your accounts. Now get out of here."

Claire tried to push past Justin, but was surprised that he was stronger than he looked. Justin shoved her towards the elevator door. "Get the fuck out of here and DO NOT come back. You and your mother are disgusting. GET OUT NOW!"

Claire didn't want to admit it, but the look on Justin's face frightened her. Justin went into the loft and slammed the door shut. Brian was standing by the door to the bedroom. "Did I hear Claire's voice?"

"Brian, get back into bed right now. Yes, that was your extremely annoying sister. Apparently Joan has a roof leak and Claire wants you to pay 25 fucking thousand dollars for a new roof. That is such a crock of bullshit!  A new roof on that house would never cost that much. I really, really hope you won't even consider giving those two bitches any more money. They don't care about you, and it is time you cut them loose until they decide to treat you better. You are such an awesome person and they are nothing. I told you to get back into bed."

Brian chuckled as he climbed back into bed. "That does seem like a lot of money for a new roof. Seems to me that one of the mortgages Jack had on the house was for a new roof shortly before he died. Don't worry, Sunshine, we are not going to pay for Joan's roof if you don't want us to."

Justin couldn't help smiling at Brian talking of them as a couple. The phone rang again and this time Justin asked who was there before buzzing the delivery guy in.

Justin paid the delivery guy and took the 2 prescriptions into the kitchen. He carefully read the instructions took a pill out of one bottle, grabbed a spoon for the cough syrup and went into Brian. “Bri, sit up and take this pill and a spoonful of cough syrup. The cough syrup has codeine so that should help you sleep.”

Brian swallowed the pill, took the cough medicine, made an unhappy face and took a big drink of his ginger ale. Justin fluffed Brian’s pillows and gave him a kiss on the forehead. “Such a good boy to take his medicine. Sleep tight, feel better, I love you.”

Brian’s cell rang and Justin answered it, thinking it might be Claire. “Hi doctor.  Yes, we just got the prescriptions. Brian has had some chicken soup and he took some aspirin along with the stuff you prescribed. OK, I will keep an eye on him. Thanks for calling.” Justin shut off the phone.

Brian looked over at him. “Well...What did he say?”

“The doctor said that if your fever goes over 103, or you start to have trouble breathing I should call an ambulance and take you to the emergency room and call him. He said the flu is nothing to fool around with. Let’s take your temperature again.”

Justin was pleased that Brian’s temp was now below 102. He turned down the bedroom lights and Brian fell asleep almost immediately. Justin cleaned up the kitchen, made sure the door was locked and the alarm was set. He went into the bedroom and got in his side of the bed. He listened to Brian’s breathing for a while before he drifted off to sleep.

A few hours later, Justin was jolted awake by the bed shaking. He sat up and saw Brian half on the bed and half on the floor. “Brian what happened”

“I’m fine, I just stood up a little too fast and got dizzy. Go back to sleep!”

Justin was out of bed and around to Brian’s side without saying anything. “Let me help you.  What were you trying to
do?”

“I have to take a piss and I’ve been doing that on my own for quite some time. Go back to sleep.”

“Let me help you up.”  Justin took hold of Brian’s arm and helped him stand. Brian started to the bathroom but was
still a little wobbly.

Justin took Brian’s arm and put it around his shoulders. “Just lean against me.” Brian grunted in disgust, but found he really did feel more steady leaning against Justin. Once they were in the bathroom Justin started to pull down Brian’s boxers. “I think you should sit down.”

“Sunshine, I am NOT a lesbian, I do not sit down to pee.”

“Brian, I love you, but you are not feeling too steady and while I want to help you any way I can, I would rather not have to clean
urine off the bathroom floor at 1 AM.”

After another grunt of disgust, Brian finished pulling down his shorts and sat on the toilet. Justin went back into the bedroom and switched on a light. He felt the sheets on Brian’s side of the bed and found them damp & clammy.

Back in the bathroom Brian announced he was done. Justin went back in and felt Brian’s T shirt, which like the sheets was pretty damp. He started to run some warm water in the sink and grabbed a wash cloth & towel.

“Brian, you are all sweaty. Let me give you a quick wash and then you can put on a clean shirt and boxers.” Justin squeezed some of Brian’s shower gel onto a wet washcloth and gave Brian a quick washing before he got him clean clothes.

He carried a chair into the bedroom and told Brian to sit there while he changed the sheets. After giving the new sheets a quick warm up, he helped Brian back into bed. He decided this was a good time to give Brian his next dose of medicine and a couple more aspirin.  He made sure Brian’s pillows were fluffed and he was covered up before he switched off the light and got back into his side of the bed.

“Thanks, Sunshine, for taking such good care of me.”

“Brian, I love you and I’m happy to take care of you. I think it must be a Taylor family trait, this need to care for the sick.”

Brian gave a little laugh and took Justin’s hand under the covers.“I love you, too.”

The next time Justin woke up the sun was shining. He was snuggled against Brian who didn’t seem to be too feverish. He slid out of bed, gathered up the dirty sheets, clothes, towel & washcloth. He started the coffee maker before he loaded & started the washer. When he walked back into the bedroom, Brian was sitting up leaning against the headboard of the bed. Justin went over, adjusted his pillows and gave him the thermometer to put in his mouth. He was pleased that Brian’s fever had not gone up and was staying around 101. “What would you like for breakfast?”

“Not too hungry. How about juice, toast & coffee?”

“Coming right up.  Do you need help getting to the bathroom?”

“I think I am good.” Brian stood up carefully, but had no trouble walking into the bathroom.

Justin assembled Brian’s breakfast and toasted a bagel for himself. He cut up an orange for Brian and once he spread cream cheese on his bagel he put everything on a tray and took it into the bedroom. Brian lifted his eyebrows at the orange, but seeing the determined look on his partner’s face he ate it without comment. After breakfast it was medicine time.

“How are you feeling, Brian?”

“Better than yesterday, but still really achy, and even though I got a good night’s sleep I still feel tired. Eating breakfast kind of wore me out. Also my feet are really cold.”

Justin took the dirty dishes out to the kitchen. He emptied some body lotion into a bowl and gave it a quick microwave to warm it up.
Back in the bedroom he got a pair of Brian’s cashmere socks from the bureau. “Let’s see if we can fix the cold feet.” He pulled the covers off Brian and put a clean towel under his feet. Justin gave them a good massage with the warm lotion before he slipped on the cashmere socks.

“Is that better?”

“Sunshine, that was great. You really are spoiling me. I know it sounds stupid, but I think I’m ready for a nap.”

Justin covered him back up and readjusted his pillows. “Have a good nap. Let me know if you need anything.” While Brian slept, Justin loaded the breakfast things into the dishwasher, switched the clothes to the dryer then folded them and put them away. He spent some time sketching the sleeping Brian. He was heating up some soup for lunch when Brian appeared in the kitchen.

“I’m tired of being in bed. I want to eat lunch here at the table.”

“Okay, but let me get you some sweat pants to put on. You still have a fever, so you need to stay warm.” Justin was pleased by the big bowl of soup that Brain ate for lunch. He also got him to eat another orange and some juice. Brian checked his email, answered the most urgent and then allowed Justin to coerce him back into bed.

He read a book for about 15 minutes before drifting off to sleep again. When he woke up he got washed in the bathroom while Justin changed the sheets again. Brian came out to the living room and watched some TV while Justin made a salad and heated soup for dinner. Justin was pleased that Brian’s temperature was now under 100. Before bed Brian got another foot
massage and managed to sleep through the night.

Justin was woken up Sunday morning by the delightful feeling of Brian sucking his dick. He raised the covers and looked down at Brian. “So I guess you are feeling better today.”

Brian took a minute to smile up at Justin, who shimmed down to lay beside Brian. Now in a perfect 69 position, it was a very pleasant way for them to start the day. A joint shower allowed for a couple more blow jobs before breakfast.

Justin was just putting an egg white omelet on a plate when Brian walked into the kitchen. “Perfect timing; glad you are feeling better, but you still have a slight fever and are still pretty congested so no overdoing today. OK?”

“So first you tempt me into morning sex, and NOW you tell me not to overdo.“

Justin laughed as he sat down at the table with his breakfast. “I tempted you??? Seems to me that I was the one that was awakened by someone’s mouth on my dick.”

Brian just smirked. After a leisurely breakfast, Brian spent the morning on the couch, wrapped in an afghan, watching the morning news programs.

Justin cleaned up the kitchen, checked his emails, spent some time texting with Daphne and fine tuning his Brain sleeping sketches.
When his phone rang he checked the display before answering. “Hi Mom. He is feeling much better today and his fever is down. Yes, Mother, I have already told him not to overdo, and no, he is not going back to work tomorrow.”

Brian was listening to Justin’s side of the conversation and added his own comment. “I may go into the office for at least part of the day tomorrow.”

Justin frowned. “Brian, that is just stupid. You need to be sure you are really well before going to work.” Brian ignored him. “OK, Mom, see you.”

After disconnecting with his mother, Justin joined Brian on the couch. “Brian, you are not serious about going into the office tomorrow are you?”

“Sunshine, you have been so great and I really appreciate it and you know how much I love you. But, I am a grown man and I can
decide when I am well enough to go back to work.”

Justin got up and moved to a chair with his sketch pad. “You can be a very annoying person. I will not be happy if you endanger your health by going back to work too soon. It’s time for you to take your medicine.”

“Justin, come back over here.” The lack of any response let Brian know he was in trouble. Except for the TV and the scratch of Justin’s pencil, silence reigned.

When the house phone rang, Justin went over and answered.  He punched in the code to unlock the lower entry door and went over to the loft door. A few minutes later he opened the door for his mother.

Jennifer handed her son a bag and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Hi Justin, I brought you some lemon bars from the diner.” She crossed the room and gave a surprised Brian a kiss on the forehead. “Brian, Honey, you still have a little fever. How are you feeling?”

“I’m feeling pretty good.  How do you know I still have a fever?”

Jennifer laughed. “Oh Honey, a mother’s lips are a better fever detector than any thermometer. You need to stay home from work until you have a full day of no fever. The flu is nothing to fool around with. If you don’t take care of yourself you could wind up with pneumonia.”

Brian gave Justin a dirty look. “Don’t look at me, Mr. Kinney. You heard my whole conversation with my mom. I didn’t know she was coming over here.”

Jennifer put a cool hand on Brian’s cheek. “I just showed a house not far from here. I heard you say that you might go in the office tomorrow. Sweetheart, that is just not the correct thing to do. I’m just concerned about you and don’t want you to endanger your health.”

“Mother Taylor, I appreciate your concern but as I told your son, I am a grown man and I know when I am ready to go back to work.”

Jennifer gave Justin a look before turning back to Brian. “Brian! Obviously you do NOT know when you are ready to go back to work. It is time to go back to work when you have been fever free for a full day and not before! I love you and I’m concerned about you and if you go to Kinnetik tomorrow I swear I will come down to your office and drag you back here by your ear. Do I make myself perfectly clear?”

Brian turned away so Jennifer didn’t see the tears forming in his eyes. Growing up he did not have many chances to encounter “mothering” from anyone and he was surprised and touched by Jennifer’s concern for him.

She stood in front of him waiting for a reply and reluctantly he nodded agreement. That earned him a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you, honey. Not that I don’t trust you but I will be calling Cynthia tomorrow to make sure you stayed home. I’m sure she knows better than to lie to someone’s mother or even a mother in law.” Jennifer lingered a little longer, but satisfied her work was done she left for home.

Once Jennifer was gone, Justin came back over and sat on the couch leaning against Brian. “Imagine growing up with that. She can be tough.”

Brian smiled and put his arm around Justin’s shoulders. Justin gave him a quick kiss. “About time for lunch; let me get that started.”

By Tuesday night, Brian decided he would go back to work the next day. Justin agreed and even Jennifer gave her OK.

Late Wednesday morning Brian got an unwelcome visit from Claire. She barged into his office just as he finished a meeting with his art director.

“Brian, I need to talk to you.” The art director beat a hasty retreat and closed the office door on his way out.

“What do you want, Claire?”

“Did that boy tell you about mother’s roof?”

“Yes, Justin told me and I believe he told you that we were not going to pay for her new roof.”

Claire walked over to his desk. “Brian, the leak has already stained the ceiling in my old room. The roof has to be fixed!”

“Sister dear, I give our mother a monthly stipend of $3,000 precisely to avoid these begging visits. $25,000 is a ridiculous price for a roof on that house but whatever the price, Joan will have to find a way to pay for it herself.”

"Brian…”

“Claire, get the fuck out of my office and the fuck out of my building or I will have security escort you out."

Claire stormed out of Kinnetik. She paused on the sidewalk out front and considered her next step. A few minutes later she smiled, got in her car and drove to her mother’s parish church.

Brian had lunch at the diner. Debbie came over to his booth with a big smile on her face. “Good to see you back, feeling better?”

“I am feeling fine. Had a great morning which included a visit from my sister.” 

Deb laughed and sat down across from Brian.“Did you know she sold her house? From what I hear it was just in time to avoid the bank foreclosing. She is living down in Mount Lebanon with some trust fund guy who has been in & out of drug rehab for years.”

Brian was surprised by the news. “Wow! Do you think Claire might be using?”

Deb got up and shrugged. “Now that she is all the way down there in the South Hills, I don’t hear much about her. The boyfriend’s family made their money in banking. I understand they are not really thrilled about him moving Claire and the boys into the house they are letting him use. Your usual lunch today?”

Brian nodded and considered Debbie’s news about his sister while he waited for his lunch.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 6

When Justin got home he found Alice peeling potatoes and Charlie pressed into service shelling hard boiled eggs. He laughed knowing it was unusual for Charlie to perform any kitchen duty but he knew better than to refuse his wife’s requests. Justin put down the bag with the meat and said. “I can take over egg duty.”

Alice shook her head. “Justin, you need to get up in your studio and get some art work done. Charlie and I are happy to get this stuff ready for your dinner tomorrow. For your supper tonight I have a chicken ready to go in the oven when Brian leaves the office. When he gets home you can put the tray of vegetables in the oven to roast. You should be able to eat about a half hour after they go in.”

Justin thanked her and did head up to his studio to work on his mural sketches. A couple hours later he heard the house phone ring and a short time later his cell rang. He checked the caller ID before answering. “Hey old man, are you on the way home to me.”

He could hear the frown in Brian’s voice. “Enough old man talk you twat. I let Alice know I was leaving and because I am a considerate partner I am letting you know to get yourself ready for me!”

Justin laughed. “Later stud.” Brian answered with his own “Later.” And disconnected the call.

Justin went down to the kitchen where Alice was putting a chicken into one of the ovens. A tray of cut vegetables was sitting on the counter. “Justin just put these in at 400 degrees when Brian gets home. Have fun tomorrow with your friends, the potato salad and deviled eggs are in the fridge. See you Monday.”

Justin thanked her and went upstairs. He took a quick shower, put on Brian’s favorite cologne and wearing just some loose sweatpants he went back downstairs. He went out to the pool and pulled off the solar couple and made sure the temp on the pool heater was set correctly. Back in the kitchen he poured wine in a couple plastic wine glasses and waited to hear the garage door open.

Brian felt his work stress fall away as he turned into his driveway. As he pushed the button to open the garage door he had a smile on his face knowing his Sunshine was waiting inside. He figured Justin would be working in his studio so he planned on quickly changing into comfortable clothes before heading over to the studio.

Inside Justin tuned on the second oven and put the vegetable tray inside, set the cook time for 30 minutes and switched off most of the kitchen lights. He untied his sweatpants cord and picked up the two wine glasses.

Brian came thru the garage door and slipped off his shoes in the mud room, his normal routine. He entered the dimly lit kitchen and saw Justin standing there holding the wine glasses and looking unbelievably beautiful to Brian. “Welcome home lover, care to join me in the hot tub?” Without waiting for an answer Justin turned and headed out to the pool area. Before he got to the door his pants slid down the floor and he stepped out of them.

Brian got undressed in record time with his hard cock leading the way he followed Justin thru the family room, grabbing some condoms and lube from a drawer.

Justin smiled over his shoulder before walking to the hot tub and stepping down into the swirling water. A second later as Brian followed him into the water, Justin handed him one of the wine glasses.

Justin tapped his glass against Brian’s. “I am so glad you are home and I love you more every day we are together.”

Brian couldn’t trust himself to say anything, afraid it would be too lesbionic. He took a sip of his wine and then leaned forward to kiss those wonderful, inviting pink lips. After the kiss both men sat down in the tub, leaning back, sipping the wine and relaxing for a couple minutes just happy to be together.
Brian put down his wine glass and pulled Justin close to him. “Sunshine you sure know how to make a guy feel welcome and appreciated. This is the best homecoming I could imagine.”

Justin put down his wine glass, grabbed a condom from where Brian left them on the side of the hot tub. Once he had the condom on Brian he faced him and lowered himself onto Brian’s cock. As Justin settled, Brian grabbed his head and pulled him into a long, passionate kiss. Once their mouth parted, Justin started to slowly move up and down.

Half an hour later both men sat in the tub hands intertwined and feeling sated after one of their most memorable fucks. Justin stood up and pulled Brian up with him. “Our dinner is ready, let’s take a quick shower and then eat.”

Justin’s stomach chose that moment to growl as if it agreed it was time for food.

Brian laughed and followed Justin into the pool house shower. They emerged wrapped in terry robes. Brian went over to the pool to pull the solar cover over the water. Justin continued into the kitchen and removed the chicken and vegetables from the ovens. Brian came inside carrying their still partially filled wine glasses.

“Bri, you want to carve the chicken while I set the table.” Working together like the team that they are, in a few minutes the two men were sitting down to dinner. While they ate, their easy conversation revolved around Justin’s lunch with his mother & Debbie, his conversation with Emmett and what had happened during Brian’s work day. They also talked about their planned barbeque the next day.

After dinner Brian put away the leftovers while Justin loaded the dishwasher. Brian gathered his discarded clothes and headed towards the stairs. “I’m headed upstairs where I will get ready for round two of tonight’s activities. You lock up and set the alarm.”

Justin did as requested and ran upstairs anxious for more lovemaking with Brian.

The next morning Brian, as usual, was the first to wake up. He knew from their years together that Justin was not a morning person. Whenever Brian brought that fact to Justin’s attention he was told that “older people” needed less sleep. Brian enjoyed laying there with Justin pressed against his side, Justin’s arm thrown across Brian’s stomach. No matter what position they went to sleep in, this where they were when they woke up.

Eventually Brian slipped out of bed and headed downstairs to get some coffee. Alice had filled the coffee maker and set the timer so the coffee was brewed and waiting for Brian. He drank his first cup of coffee along with a glass of juice and took his vitamins. Brian filled his mug a second time and fixed a cup of coffee for Justin which he took upstairs.

Justin was sitting up in bed and Brian leaned down to deliver a good morning kiss before handing his partner his coffee. Brian got back into his side of the bed. “So Sunshine, what’s on your agenda for today.”

Justin took a few sips of coffee before answering. “I want to get the steaks and chicken into the marinades that Alice made. After that I need to get in a couple hours in the studio before we get set up for the barbeque.”

Brian made his standard annoyed face. “I guess I am to be pressed into grilling duty.” Justin tried not to smile, he knew Brian actually enjoyed grilling but tried very hard to keep that fact hidden. “Well Bri, I’m sure Emmett could do the grilling or maybe Ben?”

Brian snorted before answering. “It would be more trouble to show them where everything is and explain which charcoal to use. I’ll just do it myself.” Justin had to wait a minute before replying to be sure he didn’t laugh, Brian hated when Justin saw through his protests.

They chatted comfortably while they drank their coffee. Weekends were normally the only time they had these morning conversations. During the week Brian left early for the office and Justin normally did not get out of bed until about an hour after Brian left for Kinnetik. After coffee & conversation, Brian & Justin moved into the master bathroom for a shower & a fuck. Eventually 2 happy, satisfied men moved to the kitchen for breakfast.

Justin got the steaks and chicken into their marinades while Brian loaded the breakfast dishes into the dishwasher. Afterwards Justin headed for his studio and Brian headed for the study to check his email and get some work done on pending Kinnetik presentations.

Justin spent the next few hours working on his sketches for the PPG murals. He needed to be ready to meet with the judging committee next Wednesday. He decided he had done enough work for today and didn’t want to stress his hand so when his stomach rumbled for lunch he was happy to stop.

Down in the kitchen he cut up salad fixings, adding some leftover chicken. Justin loaded a tray with the salad, plates, silverware and a couple of glasses of iced tea and made his way to Brian’s study at the other end of the house. Brian looked up from his computer and smiled. “Sunshine, that looks like a nice low carb lunch.”

Justin laughed. “Well I wanted to offset all the delicious fatty things you will be eating at dinner. Rolls, potato salad, steak, deviled eggs and Alice’s homemade cookies with ice cream for dessert.” Brian just rolled his eyes while he loaded salad onto his plate.

When they finished lunch Brian took the dirty dishes to the kitchen while Justin went upstairs to change out of his paint stained clothes. His cell phone rang as he entered the bedroom. He took a quick look at the caller ID before answering. “Hello Ted, what’s up with you?”

There was a quick laugh before the reply. “Actually this is Blake. Ted refused to call, he’s afraid we might annoy Brian.”

Justin could hear Ted protesting that in the background. “Don’t worry Blake, I have a different philosophy than Ted, I kind of enjoy annoying Brian every once in a while. I think it is good for him. Of course if you are calling to say you aren’t coming I will be both disappointed and annoyed.”

“We are looking forward to our first barbeque of the season. Actually we were wondering if we could show up a little early and get in a few games of tennis on your court. Teddy and I have been trying to play a couple times a week.”

Justin smiled and thought that tennis a couple times a week was definitely more Blake’s idea then Ted’s. “That’s not a problem, come as early as you like.”

“Em is planning on driving down with us so is it Ok for him to be early as well.”

“Wow Blake! How about you take advantage of my easy going nature. Actually I had invited Em down here hoping for an overdue gossip session so it’s perfect for him to come early. He can help me set up and we can talk while you and Ted get into shape.” The two blondes said good bye and hung up.

When Justin brought his partner up to date, he got the expected raised eyebrow from Brian. They worked together to get the cover off the pool and the cushions on the patio before Brian went upstairs to change.

It wasn’t too long until Ted, Blake & Emmett arrived. Justin opened a bottle of wine and he and Emmett settled in on the patio for their bull session. Brian escaped back to the study happy to get some more work done. Blake & Ted headed to the tennis court.

When Ben & Michael pulled into the driveway, Michael was instantly annoyed to see Ted’s car already parked there. Michael thought he & Ben were the only guests for this barbeque. When they walked onto the patio Justin & Emmett were arranging plates, flatware and glasses on a table by the built in grill. Justin hurried over to the new arrivals. “Hi guys, glad you are here. Ted & Blake have been playing tennis for a while so they should be over here soon. Em & I have started on wine and there is beer and sodas in the pool house fridge so help yourselves.”

Ben smiled, said hello and gave Justin and Emmett a quick hug. Michael looked around the patio for Brian but didn’t see him anywhere. “Where is Brian!”
Justin was annoyed but tried not to show it. “He is working in the study, why don’t you go let him know everyone is here. Brian needs to get the charcoal going in the grill.”

Without another word Michel headed into the house. Ben started an apology to Justin who just held up his hand and told him not to worry about it.

Brian looked up & smiled when his longtime friend came into the study. “Hey Mikey, you and Ben are here so I guess the festivities can begin.” He noticed that there was no smile on Michael’s face.

“I thought that it was just going to be Ben and me here tonight. You didn’t mention inviting anyone else.”

Brian took a calming breath before answering. “What happened was that Justin saw Honeycutt at the diner and thought he seemed kind of down so he invited him down here for an overnight visit. When Justin brought me a sandwich for lunch I let him know I had invited you and Ben. We decided to ask Ted & Blake, it will be fun to have the whole gang together.”

Michael still looked unhappy. “I thought we would have some time together, I never see you alone anymore. I guess Justin had other plans.” Brian refused to get dragged into that conversation. He slung his arm over Michael’s shoulders and led him back out to the patio.

Blake & Ted had finished their tennis games. When Brian and Michael came out of the house Ted was announcing he had won their match but just barely. Ben challenged Ted to a game but he pleaded exhaustion. Blake took the challenge, explaining that he could use the practice. Ben didn’t want to use Ted’s “fancy racket” so Justin told him where to find some generic rackets in the pool house closet.

Emmett and Ted decided they would try out the pool’s hot tub.

Brian extracted himself from Michael and came over to give Justin a kiss. “Brian you should get the grill started.” Brian agreed and went to the pool house to gather his special combination of different charcoals & wood chips. Like everything else he did Brian made a major production of grilling. He tried a few different charcoals & wood chips before deciding on the “best” combination. He liked to say he was a “purist” and had no interest in using a gas grill.

Michael followed him into the pool house and looked on horrified as Brian gathered what he wanted for the grill. “I can’t believe that Justin is making you do the grilling.” Brian looked generally puzzled. “Mikey, I like grilling. I was pretty surprised by that but of course like everything I do, I am a master at grilling. Poor Justin realized pretty quickly that he was outclassed. Poor guy was pretty broken up by it but we have been able to move past his disappointment.”

Brian smirked at Michael but his friend still had a grim expression on his face. Brian stuffed paper in the bottom of the charcoal starter and after he loaded his special mix in the top he lit the paper. He tried again to lift Michael’s mood.

“Hey Mikey, how about you and I take on Justin & Honeycutt at a game of pool volleyball.” Justin laughed as he took off his shorts & tee shirt. “Come on Em. Let’s show them what we’ve got.”

Emmett jumped from the hot tub into the pool, ready for the game. Michael sat down on a lounge chair. “I don’t like volleyball. It reminds me of high school gym class.” He wanted everyone to realize he was not happy about anything that was happening.

Brian pointedly ignored him. “Come on Theodore you had time to rest up from tennis so you are now on my team.”

The resulting volleyball game was hilarious. Ted continually complained he was too old for all this physical activity, Emmett’s over the top antics caused Justin to continually laugh. Brian told Emmett if Justin drowned because he was laughing so hard he would seek revenge. No one seemed to be able to keep an accurate score but by the time Ben & Blake returned from their tennis game, Brian claimed victory. Emmett and Ted returned to the hot tub still arguing over the final volleyball score. Justin got them drink refills while Brian checked on his charcoal which he decided was ready to be emptied out of the starter into the grill.

Ben went over to try and convince to join him for a swim before dinner but Michael refused to leave his chair. He didn’t see the eye rolls & head shaking by Ted, Blake & Emmett relaxing in the hot tub. Justin brought the meat out from the kitchen. As Brian started to grill, Justin returned to the kitchen to bring out the side dishes.

Justin put some rolls into the oven and got the potato salad and deviled eggs out of the refrigerator and uncovered the dishes. He was surprised when he saw Michael come in the house. “Michael, just in time to help me get this stuff outside. Thanks.”

Michael stood with his arms crossed in front of him. “I can’t believe that you make Brian do the grilling. One of these days you are going to push him too far and Brian is going to realize everything he has given up trying to keep you happy.”

Justin frowned and wished Michael would get over this whole poor Brian routine. “Michael, Brian likes to grill. I am as surprised by that as you are. You should know better than anyone that Brian only does what he wants.”

Michael had not changed his stance. “I do know that Brian never wanted to be living in the suburbs and grilling food before you started interfering in his life. You make sure I never get anytime alone with Brian. It was just supposed to be Ben & me here for dinner tonight but you made sure that didn’t happen.”

Justin was so tired of these conversations but tried to stay calm. “Michael that is not what happened. I invited Em before I even knew that Brian had invited you.”

Neither man noticed that Brian had come into the kitchen until he moved next to his childhood friend. “Michael! I have no idea what the fuck is wrong with you tonight. You have been miserable ever since you showed up and the rest of us are really over your drama queen shit. You are incredibly rude to talk to Justin like this in our home and if I even hear you doing this again you will no longer be welcome here. Now grab a fucking bowl or dish and get outside.”

Justin & Brian exchanged an exasperated but not surprised look. Justin took the rolls out of the oven and Brian picked up the deviled eggs as the three exited the house Brian announced that dinner was served.

Michael did nothing to disguise his unhappiness and although everyone attempted to engage him in conversation his answers were for the most part mono-syllabic. Ben attempted to quietly find out what had happened in the kitchen but Michael refused to answer his questions. Meanwhile Emmett & Blake decided that Ted needed a fashion makeover and discussed what he should be wearing. Brian participated by throwing in the occasional snide comment, however when Blake told Ted he needed pants that showed off “his cute little ass”, Brian clamped his hands over his ears and claimed that comment made his ears bleed. Justin tried to defend Ted but was outnumbered. Justin could tell how annoyed Brian was with Michael and tried to keep his partner calm with a comforting hand on Brian’s thigh. Whenever Brian turned to look at Justin he was rewarded with a full watt sunshine smile. Michael spent his time with his head down mainly just moving food around on his plate but eating very little.

When everyone had finished eating Justin announced that dessert was Alice’s homemade oatmeal raisin and chocolate cookies with ice cream. Michael took this opportunity to say that he had a really bad headache and didn’t want any dessert. Justin was about to offer him some aspirin but Brian spoke before Justin had a chance. “That is really a shame Mikey. You better go right home and get into bed. You have made it perfectly clear that you are not having a very good time.”

A surprised and confused Michael started to answer until he saw the look on Brian’s face. Instead he stood up and moved away from the table. Ben quickly got up and joined him. Ted, Blake & Emmett all expressed concern and hoped he felt better soon but no one suggested that they stay. Justin put his hand on Brian’s shoulder and thanked Ben for coming while Michael hurried to their car.

As soon as they got in the car Ben turned to Michael. “Baby what’s wrong. You were looking forward to this barbeque but as soon as we got here something seemed to go wrong.”

“This dinner was supposed to be for just you & me. Justin couldn’t allow that so he made sure the others were invited and even got them to arrive before us. Than he makes Brian do the grilling, the little twink constantly has to show how he has Brian under his control. Justin has always been jealous of my friendship with Brian.”

“Michael I don’t think that is really what happened. Blake told me he called and asked to come early so that he and Ted could play some tennis. Emmett said that Justin invited him when they were at the diner before he even knew Brian had invited us.”

“Ben, you really don’t understand how Justin has wheedled his way into Brian’s life. I hardly even recognize Brian. He always made fun of the whole suburban hetero life style and now Justin has him grilling. Somehow we have to get Brian to realize what is going on!”

“Michael baby you are really overreacting. Brian seems really happy to me.”

Michael didn’t bother to answer, he turned to look out the window and plan how he could free his best friend from Justin’s influence.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad


Chapter 19

Peter was fascinated as Ted explained why there were two agreements and how the deal was structured. Ted was happy to explain everything to Peter since the boy seemed to hang on every word Kinnetik’s CFO had to say.

Cynthia was amused by their interaction. She thought highly of Ted and knew the important role he played in Kinnetik’s success. Once they left Ted’s office, Cynthia showed Peter around most of the building. She wanted to give Brian & Justin plenty of time to celebrate in their own special way. By the time Cynthia & Peter returned to Brian’s office Justin was sitting on the couch and Brian was working at his desk.

Both men seemed a little flushed but Cynthia figured Peter wouldn’t notice.

******************************************************************************

On the car ride home Justin was amused by Peter’s nonstop chatter, mostly reliving his first “business lunch”. It did occur to Justin that this is what Brian was always accusing him of doing. When they got back home Alice was just coming out of the laundry room.

“So boys did you have a nice afternoon?”

Peter chuckled at her description. “It was awesome! Uncle Justin bought a building and an art gallery. Then we went to Kinnetik and Mr Schmidt explained it all to me and Ms Brown showed me all through the offices. It was all so much fun.”

Justin couldn’t help smiling at Peter’s enthusiasm. “Better go up and change out of your good clothes buddy.”


Peter nodded and ran up the back stairs. Alice laughed. “There is one very excited boy.”

Justin laughed. “Who would believe someone could get so excited about having lunch and visiting an advertising business?”

“Justin, you know that is a young boy who just wants to be taken notice of. I hate to think what his life has been up to this point but it has to involve a lot of neglect. I think his biggest thrill today was that you cared enough to invite him along.”

Justin blushed. “How did thing go with John & Charlie?” “Charlie was impressed with how much John knew about gardening and he worked really hard. I think he enjoyed his day but that boy will be a tough nut to crack. He is determined not to let anyone get too close because he doesn’t want to get hurt anymore.”

Justin frowned. “I’ll have to dust off the “Kinney Operating Manual” that is so who Brian was when I met him. Where is John?”

“He’s in the media room. He came inside about half an hour ago.”

“Brian said he should be home around 6:30 for dinner.”

“I have a roast beef ready to go in the over with some potatoes and carrots. I’ll put that in around 5 so it will be ready when Brian gets home. There is some broccoli cut up in the fridge that you can steam. I made a peach pie for dessert.”

“Thanks Alice. I think I’ll check on John and then try to get some painting done.”

Justin went down the hall to the media room. John was sprawled in a chair playing a video game. “Hi John. Peter and I just got home, he’s upstairs getting changed.”
John kept his focus on the TV screen. “OK.” “So did you have a good day with Charlie?”

He continued focusing on his game. “It was OK.” “Ah, well that’s good. I’m going to change my clothes and get some work done in the studio. Let me know if you guys need anything.”

“Uncle Brian said that when you are in the studio we shouldn’t bother you.” “If you need something it is fine to come to the studio and ask me.”

Justin waited a few moments but there was no response from John who continued concentrating on the video game. Justin finally headed up to change.

Once Justin was gone, John switched off the TV and went up the back stairs to Peter’s bedroom. Peter had changed and was checking his emails when his brother came into the room. Happy for a new audience Peter related again his lunch & Kinnetik visit experience.

John listened solemnly. “I’m glad you enjoyed yourself but don’t get too used to this life. We can’t let ourselves get too comfortable here. They don’t really care about us, once Mom gets out of rehab they’ll be sending us right back to live with her.”

“John, I think the uncles are nice guys. I know we’ll go back and live with Mom but we might as well enjoy living here while we can.”

John shook his head. “You are so easy. How about putting on a bathing suit and we can go swimming. Might as well enjoy the pool while we can.”

Justin heard the voices as he passed the room on his way to the studio. He was tempted to try and eavesdrop but just continued on.

Alice called Justin’s cell before she left to let him know the painter had left samples for the boys to choose from. She left them on the kitchen counter.

Justin came down from the studio around 6 PM and put some water on to boil. He saw Peter & John sitting out by the pool and went over and opened the door. “You guys need to get showers and get dressed. We’re going to eat in about half an hour.”

Peter said OK and John groaned. Justin counted to 10 in his head and checked on the roast in the oven. Peter & John came in and went up the back stairs without saying anything.

After Brian came home and changed his clothes they sat down to dinner. Justin told both boys to take some broccoli, when they protested Brian told them to do as they were told and silence reigned.

Justin tried to end the tension. “Brian we should go out after dinner and see the flower beds that John & Charlie worked on today. They look great from the studio windows.”

Brian was about to make a smartass remark until he saw the look Justin was giving him across the table. “So John, did you learn anything interesting from Charlie?”

John sighed. “There wasn’t a huge amount to learn. I helped plant some flowers. I figured you’d be glad that I was doing some work and not just being a charity case.”

Brian glared at his nephew. “My understanding was you wanted to help in the gardens. There is no obligation for you to do any “work” while you live here. Both Uncle Justin and I have told you and Peter that we are not looking for anything in return for you staying here.”

John just shrugged. Brian worked hard at staying calm. “Just what was that supposed to convey? I’m afraid I don’t understand arrogant teenage speak.”

“I hate being here!” “Okay so where would you rather be?”

John shook his head. “I don’t know but I hate being stuck here in the country without anything to do.” “I do understand living out here is an adjustment but there is a pool, a media room, a game room, 15 acres of land to explore and your own computer. It seems to me that you should be able to find something to occupy some of your time.”

John didn’t say anything and continued to eat his dinner. Brian drained his glass of wine and Peter looked like he might cry at any minute.

Justin tried one more time. “John, you know everyone is responsible for their own happiness. If you have any ideas about what you would like to do we need to talk about it. Uncle Brian and I both have our work that consumes a lot of our time but we should be able to find a way to chauffeur you around if you want to visit friends or something.”

“Really? Do you really call fooling around with paints all day working? I thought that was called day care?”

Justin saw the vein pop out of Brian’s forehead but spoke before his partner had a chance to say anything.

“John, right now I am working on murals for the remodeled PPG Place lobbies for which they are going to pay me quite a bit of money. I also have an art show at a large San Francisco gallery in August. I bought part of an art gallery today and I need to work at my art to pay for it.”

John smirked. “Like we don’t know the money is coming from what Uncle Brian makes at Kinnetik.”

Brian started to stand up but Justin shook his head at him. “No John the money is not coming from Kinnetik. It is coming from Tay-Kin art and the money I make from painting. I know your mother & grandmother have you convinced that I live off Brian’s money but that is simply not true. Even if it was true that is nobody’s business but our own. I am sorry you are unhappy and I truly understand that you have no control over your life right now and that is frustrating but that does not give you the right to be rude to us.”

John silently looked down at his plate. Brian had managed to calm himself down. “Personally I don’t really give a shit if you are bored or if you are unhappy. You need to get an attitude adjustment. Uncle Justin and I are not the villain in this story. You need to figure out what will make you happy and come to us with your plan and we’ll see what we can do about it. That goes for both of you. Do we all understand the plan?”

Peter and John both said yes and everyone continued eating dinner.

After the nephews loaded the dishwasher Justin showed them the paint samples and had them choose the colors for their bedrooms. John was quiet and borderline sullen but did cooperate with the process and even thanked Justin who doubted John’s sincerity but appreciated the gesture.

Brian had escaped to the study after they were finished dinner. Justin told the boys to have pie for dessert if they wanted, before he headed to the study.

The doors to the study were closed, when Justin entered the room he found Brian sitting on the couch staring into space. “I’m proud of you no Beam, unless you have already finished the bottle.”

Brian smirked. “No Beam, just trying to figure out how close I was to actually smacking my nephew.” “It doesn’t matter how close you were, you didn’t do it. Everyone feels like hitting someone at some point in their lives. The important thing is not to act on that impulse.”

Brian smiled at Justin. “Well Sunshine there are lots of impulses I have trouble controlling when I am around you but violence doesn’t figure into them.”

Justin flopped down on the couch next to his partner and leaned his head on Brian’s shoulder. “I think it is a good thing that John got that out of his system today. That is just a few days’ worth of frustration; imagine if he kept that bottled up for weeks.”

Brian sighed. “Suppose we have that release valve go off every couple days? Can we cope?”

“We can and we will. Alice had some interesting insights of the boys. She told me that Peter is just anxious to have someone pay attention to him. John, on the other hand, is busy keeping anyone from getting too close so he can’t get hurt anymore. Does that sound at all familiar?”

Brian shook his head. “Doesn’t sound like anyone I know.” Justin laughed. “I am dusting off my “Kinney Operating Manual” but my previous tactics won’t work here.”

Brian’s laughter was cut short by a knock on the door. “Come in.”

Peter cautiously came in the room and shut the door behind him. “Can I talk to you guys?”

Brian pointed to a chair. “Sure. Have a seat and let us know what’s on your mind.”

Peter perched on the edge of the chair. “Are you going to send us back to foster care?”

Brian smiled and shook his head. “That is not anywhere in our current plans. We understand that John is frustrated with having no control of his life. We just aren’t sure how to make his feel better about having to live here.”

Peter started to cry and Justin was amazed when Brian got up, knelt in front of Peter and took his nephew into his arms. “Peter it is okay. Justin and I want you to feel secure here. This is your home for as long as you need.”

“It’s just that the last year has been so bad. We were hungry a lot of the time. Paul was so creepy and the longer we lived with him the less Mom seemed to care about us.”

Brian nodded. “I think the best thing to do is to try and focus on the future.”

Peter smiled and hugged his uncle. “Thanks. I’m going to go up and talk to John.”

Justin came over to Brian. “You are an amazing uncle and I could not love you anymore than I do at this moment. Understanding uncles get me really horny. I think we should go upstairs and I will try and show you how much I love you.”

Lights were quickly turned off, door locks checked and the alarm set.

Brian and Justin went upstairs early but did not get to sleep until late. The sex started on their bed and after a short rest period continued with shower blow jobs until finally, exhausted, they collapsed into bed and fell asleep. Justin woke up with Brian in the morning and they enjoyed a quick fuck in the shower before heading downstairs for coffee & toast before Brian left for the office.

Justin was sitting at the kitchen counter having a second mug of coffee and trying to wake up when the nephews appeared from the back stairs in T shirts & boxers with serious bed-head hair.

“Good morning guys. How about I make us some pancakes for breakfast.”

Peter and John both thought that sounded good. Peter set the table and John poured three glasses of orange juice.

Justin let the boys know that the painter had emailed to say his workers would be there the next day to paint the bedrooms.

“John, I was thinking the wall behind your bed would be the one to paint black. What do you think?”

“Whatever you want.” “That is really not a very helpful answer. It’s your room I want it to be painted the way you want.”

“You’re right, the wall behind the bed is the one that should be black.” Justin smiled. “Thanks that more along the lines of the answer I was hoping to get.”

John smirked in such an exact replica of Brian that Justin had to struggle no to laugh.

“You guys can sleep on the third floor tomorrow night so the rooms can air out.” John smiled. “Wow, I guess it is our lucky day; freshly painted bedrooms and we get to spend the night in a sorority house.”

Both Peter and Justin were still laughing when Alice came through the back door. “Glad to see that everyone is in a good mood this morning. Charlie is ready to go the farm whenever you are ready John.”

Justin looked over at a slightly embarrassed John. “So John, what’s up with the trip to the farm?"

“I thought it would be interesting to see how things work on a real farm.”

“So this is a pleasure trip right?” John gave a grudging yes.

Alice wasn’t quite sure what that exchange was all about but figured Justin would explain it later. Peter decided he would go along on the farm trip so both boys ran upstairs to get dressed.

Justin cleared the table and brought the dishes over for Alice to rinse and put in the dishwasher. He related the previous night’s conversation to Alice before Peter and John came downstairs and ran out the back door on the way to the caretaker’s cottage.

******************************************************************************

Ted and Emmett were having breakfast at the diner when Michael strolled in the front door. He came over to their booth and slid in beside Emmett. “Hi Guys. What’s new?”

Ted pushed his half eaten breakfast plate away, grabbed his check and went up to the register to pay. Michael looked after him with a puzzled expression.

“What’s up with him?” Emmett shook his head. “Michael, really? You insulted Blake and then invited us to your cookout where you ignored us while you fed those friends of Ben a whole load of bullshit.”

“I didn’t ignore you, I was just busy with other guests. Those university friends just misunderstood what I told them. Ben had forgiven me, we’re back together.”

“I’m really glad that you and Ben are back together but I don’t think Ted is quite ready to forgive you.”

“I don’t see why not.” “I know you don’t honey; that really is the problem. Excuse me I have to go meet some possible clients.”

A genuinely puzzled Michael moved to the counter to order his breakfast and wondered why his old friends were acting so strangely.

******************************************************************************

Justin had a very productive day in his studio. He took a long lunch break which included a swim so that his hand got some rest before he headed back to work of mural number 1 for PPG Place. He also started to look through some of his finished work that was stored in the studio to see what he wanted to include in his San Francisco show. Justin also did some web searches on successful art galleries to get some ideas for possible changes they could make to Bloom Gallery.

Jennifer called to catch up on what was happening with the new additions to the household. She invited herself to lunch the next day to meet what she referred to as her “quasi grandsons” which made Justin laugh. Justin answered a long email from Daphne, who was attending medical school at Columbia-Presbyterian in New York.

It was late in the afternoon when he headed down to the kitchen. Alice was putting a marinade on a huge salmon filet. “John & Peter had a good day at the farm. They got back about half an hour ago. I made them shower and change and they are downstairs in the game room.”

“That salmon looks good, how long does it need to cook for?” “Just about half an hour in a preheated oven. There is a macaroni & vegetable salad all ready in the refrigerator. It just needs the dressing put on it and that is in the refrig as well.”

Justin gave Alice a quick kiss on the cheek before heading upstairs to wash up and change before Brian got home.

Justin was in the kitchen when Brian got home a little after 6PM. Brian gave him a quick kiss. “I almost had to take a nap this afternoon. You kept me up too late last night Sunshine.”

Justin smiled. “You kept yourself “up”, I just made good use of it.”

Brian chuckled as he headed upstairs to change his clothes.

Justin called John’s cell to tell the nephews to come to the kitchen. Peter set the table, John added the dressing and mixed the salad. Once Justin took out the salmon and some garlic bread he had made, they were ready to eat. Brian reappeared at the perfect time to avoid any meal prep duties.

Peter kept the dinner conversation going describing their day at the Simpson Farm. John threw in the occasional comment. It turned out to be a way more pleasant dinner then the day before.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 20

Since the next day was pretty overcast Alice had lunch set up on the kitchen table. Peter and John curious about meeting Justin’s mother were playing video games in the media rom when the doorbell rang just after 12:30. Justin had spent the morning in his studio but now changed into paint free clothes he greeted his mother with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. The nephews wandered into the entrance hall. Jennifer came over quickly and gave John a big hug and kiss before bestowing the same greeting on Peter. Both boys seemed to be both surprised and slightly embarrassed.

Justin just smiled and shook his head. “John, Peter thus is my mother, Mrs Taylor.”

Jennifer groaned. “Sweetheart NOT Mrs Taylor! I’ve given this some thought and since Gus will be here for his summer visit in a few months I think the boys should call me Grandma Jen like Gus does. Would that be too horrible embarrassing for you guys?”

John & Peter chuckled but agreed to the nickname, although they were both determined to avoid using it as much as possible.

Jennifer took John’s arm and led the way to the kitchen. A smirking Peter and Justin following behind them. In the kitchen Jennifer & Alice exchanged their normal hug.

As they sat down to their lunch of a garden salad with grilled chicken. Jennifer asked the boys if they had any plans for the summer. She had heard about John’s outburst and arrived for this lunch armed with information she downloaded about various summer programs and camps in the Pittsburgh area.

John glanced at Justin, who held his hand up. “I am completely innocent here. Grandma Jen apparently has her own agenda.”

Jennifer turned her attention to John. “What sorts of things are you interested in honey?”

John shrugged in reply but Jennifer was not letting the topic die. “What sort of after school activities were you involved with?”

“Nothing this past year but before we moved I played on the middle school soccer team.”

Jennifer was pleased to have gotten some information from John. “Wow, a soccer player just like your Uncle Brian.”

John smirked. “That is what Mom used to say but not exactly with the positive spin you put on it.”

“There are not many better role models for you than Brian. He studied hard and practiced hard and put himself thru college with scholarships. He worked hard after college and has made a huge success of Kinnetik. We have had out differences over the years but I have come to realize what a wonderful person he is.”

Justin smiled, he knew how much his mother & lover had clashed over the years but now Brian didn’t have any bigger supporter then Jennifer Taylor.

Jennifer kept her attention focused on John. “Washington Township has a summer soccer program that starts next week. They have practice 3 days a week for two weeks. After the first two weeks in addition to the practice days there is a game each Saturday against other summer soccer leagues in the area.”

John realized he was on the spot. “I don’t really have a way to get to the practices and games and I don’t have any soccer gear that fits me.”

Justin spoke up. “John there are four people in this household that can coordinate getting you to and from practice and games. You know that, so what is your next excuse?”

John thought about making a sarcastic response but knew that wouldn’t get him anywhere against this mother son tag team he was facing. “No excuse, it sounds like it could be an oaky thing to do.”

Jennifer got a huge smile. “Great, I am going to give them a call right now. Hopefully we are not too late to sign up.”

She grabbed her cell phone out of her purse and a folder out of her briefcase. She discovered it wasn’t too late to signup but the summer program was in danger of being canceled because their longtime sponsor had to pull out at the last minute and they were searching for a new sponsor.

Jennifer asked how much the sponsor had to pay and when she found out it was $5,000 she told her contact she could secure a new sponsor for him. She got the contact for the person in charge of the league finances and hung up.

“Justin, the summer soccer league needs a financial sponsor that will contribute $5,000. Kinnetik seems like a perfect candidate to me. Are you going to call Brain or am I?”

John & Peter were getting pretty fascinated and both looked at Justin, anxious to see what he would say.

Justin laughed and went over to the kitchen phone and dialed Brian’s number. “Hi Carole, I need to talk to Brian.”

After a very brief hold Brian came on the line. “Hi Sunshine. What’s up?” “My mother found info on a summer soccer league here in Washington Township and John thinks he would like to participate. The bad news is that they need a corporate sponsor who will give them $5,000.”

Brian chuckled on the other end of the call. “Who thought Kinnetik was the likely candidate?”

“My mother so if you don’t say yes, she will be calling you.” “Much as I love Mother Taylor that is a call I would like to avoid. Do you have contact info for me?”

Justin gave Brian the information. Brian told him he would get Ted to take care of this immediately and to give Mother Taylor his regards.

Jennifer was pleased but certainly not surprised by Brian’s willingness to sponsor the soccer team.

She told Justin she needed his credit card to get John signed up. John was duly signed up.

When she got off the phone she had an additional request. “They need a copy of your custody papers so you can sign the necessary forms for John. I have an email address to send those to.”

Justin knew that Carole had imaged the document so he called Kinnetik again and asked Carole to take care of emailing them.

Jennifer was very pleased with how the lunch was going so far. In the kitchen Alice was impressed by Jennifer.

Jennifer turned her attention to Peter. “So Honey. I found what I think will be a great program for you. It runs for 5 weeks. Justin told me you love to read so I figured you like learning about things. Is that correct?”

Peter smiled. “Yes, I guess that pretty true.” “Great! This program is 2 days a week. The first day you learn about some place in the Pittsburgh area. It’s kind of a lecture with slides and handouts. That happens on Tuesdays and on Thursdays you go on a field trip to the place you learned about on Tuesday. What do you think?”

Peter wasn't completely convinced that this was something he would enjoy but didn’t want to be the spoiler. “I guess that would be interesting.” “I think you should try it out honey. If you don’t like it you can always just stop going. The info might come in handy for school reports. I think we need to get you a binder to keep the information in and a digital camera to take picture with.”

Jennifer was on a roll, she retrieved another info sheet from her briefcase and using Justin’s credit card she got Peter signed up.

“Do you guys like Adam Sadler?” John was a little mystified at the change in conversation but said that he & Peter did like Adam Sadler.

“That’s great honey. His new movie came out last week. How about on Saturday I take you both to see the movie then we’ll have lunch. After lunch we can hit the sporting goods store to get what John needs for soccer and Staples for a binder and a digital camera for Peter.”

Justin got a little wide eyes at his mother volunteering to see an Adam Sadler movie. “Mom we can get the stuff the boys need. I know Saturdays are busy days at the real estate office.”

Jennifer shook her head. “I have everything covered at the office. I’m looking forward to getting to know John & Peter. As long as they are willing to spend the day with this old lady I think we’ll have fun.”

John & Peter smilingly agreed that the Saturday outing would be fun.

Justin still wondered if his mother knew what she was letting herself in for. “An Adam Sadler movie? Are you sure?” Jennifer gave her son her narrowed eye look. “And how many times have I sat through “Yellow Submarine” with you?

That reduced Justin to silence. Jennifer and her quasi grandsons got their scheduled settled. After hugs and kisses, she departed to show a house to a prospective buyer.

******************************************************************************

Kathy Sacks’ supervisor walked into her office. “I just had a call from a Mrs Joan Kinney.”

“Lucky you!”

Erin, her supervisor rolled her eyes. “I guess you know that she is unhappy about the Townsend brothers being placed with their uncle and his partner.”

“Yes, she has been pretty upfront about that. You do know that she refused custody. Mrs Kinney said her health did not allow her to take custody of her grandsons.”

Erin sighed. “I am going to assign Mary Gunsallus to go out and meet with Mrs Kinney.”

Kathy nodded. “I have a tip from a reliable source that there are quite a few empty liquor bottles hidden in the basement.”

“I will pass that along to Mary. Thanks.”

Mary made an appointment to see Joan the next morning.

******************************************************************************

Since Brian phoned to say he would be home late, Alice fed Peter & John dinner. Justin decided to wait and eat with Brian.

When Brian got home around 8PM he found a note in the kitchen to let him know Justin was in the studio. He checked in with the nephews in their favorite haunt, the media room. John was watching TV and Peter was reading a book. John told his uncle that Justin was in the studio in case he hadn’t seen the note.

Brian went upstairs and changed before heading over to the studio. Justin gave Brian a welcome home kiss, followed by a move to the daybed where blowjobs were exchanged.

As they lounged afterwards Brian laughed at Justin’s recounting of lunch with Jennifer, especially at the thought of Jennifer at an Adam Sandler movie. Brian let Justin know that the soccer league wound up costing Kinnetik $10,000. They told Ted that they needed a sponsor for both the intermediate and beginning soccer teams so Brian agreed to sponsor both.

When they went down to the kitchen Brian found a salad that Alice had left for him the refrigerator. Justin made himself a couple of hot dogs, much to Brian’s disgust.

John & Peter arrived in the kitchen and decided they could each eat a hot dog.

Brian was appalled. “How can you people even consider eating hot dogs at this time of night? They are nothing but fat. I may have to spend some extra time on the stair-stepper for just breathing in the hot dog fumes.”

Justin just smiled. “Young people don’t put on weight as easily as older folks.”

The astonished look on Brian’s face had his nephews hysterically laughing. Justin came over and gave Brian a kiss and whispered in his ear. “I do love you even if you are old.”

That remark earned him a smack on the ass but Brian did join in the laughter.

******************************************************************************

Mary Gunsallus rang the doorbell promptly at 10 AM on Thursday morning. A few minutes later Joan Kinney opened the door.

“Hello Mrs Kinney. I am Mary Gunsallus from the Family Services at the Welfare Department.”

Joan stepped back to allow Mary to enter. The enclosed front porch looked unused. There were boxes and papers on the furniture, the windows were dirty and the corners of the small porch looked like a breeding ground for dust bunnies.

Joan led the way into the living room. The room was stuffy. Despite the pleasant morning the windows were closed and the blinds opened enough only to admit a sliver of sunshine.

Joan indicated that Mary should sit on the sofa. Upholstered in the herculean plaid fabric that was popular in the 1970’s, Mary imagined the sofa was actually older then she was. The springs had obviously seen better days as Mary sunk into the sofa.

Mary pulled a folder and a pad of paper out of her briefcase. “Mrs Kinney I guess my first question would be why you have changed your mind about taking custody of your grandsons, Peter and John Townsend. On the night your daughter was admitted to the hospital you told the police and Kathy Sacks, from our office, that you were not able to care for the boys.”

Joan sat primly on the edge of her chair. “I never imagined that my grandsons would be delivered into the hands of perverts.”

Mary tried valiantly not to let her smile fade. “I can assure you that our office does not believe that we have done that. We investigated Mr Kinney and Mr Taylor thoroughly. We spoke to many of their friends and employees and relatives. The only negative comments we received were from you and Mr Taylor’s estranged father.”

Joan looked annoyed. “You are aware that my son and that boy are queers.”

“Everyone is aware that Mr Kinney and Mr Taylor are homosexuals. They make no secret of that fact and there is no reason for them to make a secret of it.”

“My religious beliefs do not allow me to treat that fact as casually as you seem to.”

“That is one of the great things about the United States, we are all allowed the freedom to form our own opinions and beliefs.”

Joan’s face became even more pinched, her annoyance obvious to the social worker. “Well dear my belief is that I could provide a better environment here in my home for my grandsons.”

Mary nodded, her smile still fixed on her face. “You mentioned health issues as the reason you could not accept custody. Has your health improved in the last couple weeks?”

“I was concerned this added responsibility would cause me health issues but I am willing to take that chance in order to keep my grandsons safe.”

“Okay. Of course there will have to be an investigation of you and you would need to see some information on your finances.”

“What sort of investigation?”

“We just need to speak to some friends and relatives who can attest to your character. We would also need to run a background check and a credit report.”

Joan looked surprised by this information. “I don’t have any relatives that live in this area. I am a very private person and prefer not to get involved with neighborhood gossip so I keep to myself.”

“You speak of your religious beliefs, could we speak to your clergyman or any groups you may belong to at your church?”

“I attend daily mass but am not interested in social activities. There is a new pastor at my church and we are not well acquainted not do I have any desire to associate with him.”

“Well maybe if you take some time to think about it you will come up with some people we can talk to. Meanwhile you have lived in this area for a long time so we can start by speaking with some of your neighbors.”

“I really could not permit that. I do not want my personal business to become common knowledge.”

Mary stopped smiling. “Mrs Kinney, we always investigate someone before we give them custody of minor children. How about if we start with where the boy would sleep.”

An obviously annoyed Joan led the way upstairs to Brian’s old bedroom. A single bed, a bureau and a small desk pretty much filled the room.

Mary stepped into the room. “So this is where one of the boys would stay. I’m not sure this will meet out minimum standards. The room is very small.”

“I plan to get bunk beds so that the boys could share this room. I certainly can’t give up my room and when Claire is released she will stay in her old room.”

“Mrs Kinney we have several issues here. One, you seem unwilling to let my department do any investigation of you. Two, this room is completely inadequate for two boys to share. Third, your daughter and her sons cannot live in the same house until she fulfills the requirement for her to resume custody of her sons.”

“You are telling me that the Welfare Department would rather leave those innocent boys with those two perverts rather than in a Christian home with their mother and grandmother to look after them.”

“What I am telling you is that the Welfare Department prefers for your grandsons to stay in a stable home with your son and his partner than to be stuffed into inadequate bedroom with their neglectful drug addict mother and their grandmother who has no friends or acquaintances who can vouch for her character.”

Joan said nothing but went back downstairs followed by Mary. “Please leave my home.”

“There really isn’t any point in me staying. Good bye Mrs Kinney.”

Mary was happy to be back outside in the sunshine. She took a deep breath of fresh air and said a silent prayer that she had seen the last of Joan Kinney.

******************************************************************************

Meanwhile in the Philadelphia suburbs, Claire was having a private session with her drug counselor.

“Claire I am a little disappointed that you haven’t shared anything in our group sessions.”

“I have nothing to say to those losers. They seem proud of the horrible things they have done.”

“Not proud but honest and willing to acknowledge their past mistakes and work on doing better in the future.”

Claire laughed. “They certainly have made plenty of mistakes.”

“I would say you have made a few yourself.”

“I am NOT in the same category of these people. I haven’t stolen anything or lived on the streets or prostituted myself.”

“You have neglected your children. Some people might say that having sex with a person who provides a home for you and supplies you with drugs could be considered a form of prostitution.”

An outraged Claire sprang to her feet. “I am not one of those people who thinks that!”

“Claire if you are not willing to be honest about your issues this program is not going to help you get your life back on track.”

“I don’t need to be here. I am being forced to be here for no good reason.” Claire left the counselor’s office and returned to her room.

The counselor finished her notes on the meeting and sent her supervisor an email letting him know she was not making any headway with Claire.

******************************************************************************

Brian arrived home from work a little early. He quickly changed and went to the studio. He and Justin stayed in the studio until Alice let them know that dinner was ready.
Alice had prepared another of her delicious dinners. This time it was baked ham with twice baked potatoes. Brian & Justin secretly thought that Alice was enjoying the nephews' obvious enjoyment of her cooking. The boy really had never experienced home cooking on this scale.

After dinner when the table had been cleared and the dishwasher loaded; Brian had a cognac while Justin, John & Peter each enjoyed a slice of pineapple upside down cake. This was something John & Peter had actually never heard of but like everything Alice cooked for them it was delicious.

Brian glanced at Justin who nodded. “John, Peter I had a call from our caseworker this afternoon and there are a couple things you need to know about.”

Both his nephews put down their forks and looked apprehensively at their uncles.

“Your grandmother contacted Family Services to say she changed her mind about having custody of you guys…”

John quickly interrupted. “Can she do that? It would be ridiculous to move there from here.”

Justin smiled at the positive reaction from John to living with them.

Brian shook his head. “Don’t worry. The state is really not open to Joan getting custody for a couple of reasons. First, her house is not in good shape and her plan would be to get bunk beds and put you both in my old bedroom. That room was small for just one person and it is way below minimum standards for two people to share.”

John & Peter both looked relieved. “The second reason that it wouldn’t work is that Joan and your mother plan on your mother moving in with Joan when she leaves rehab. Family Services doesn’t want your mother to get custody back until they are sure she has her own life in order.

Which brings me to the other piece of news I got this afternoon. Claire is not really participating in the rehab program. She refuses to believe she needs any help or that she has any drug problem. She wants to leave and the facility wants her to leave since they feel she is taking up space someone else could use and by not participating she is causing an issue for other patients that are working on their issues.”

John & Peter both looked concerned. Peter looked at his brother and John assumed his normal role as spokesman. “Does this mean we will be going back to live with Mom soon?”

Brian shook his head again. “I can’t say when you will go back with your mother but it will not be soon. Claire has to get a job and a place to live before she can resume custody. Living with Joan is not really a positive step for her.”

Peter spoke for the first time. “Will we be able to visit with Mom?”

“For right now Family Services is allowing only supervised visits. You can see Claire at the Family Services office or she could come here, with prior agreement and Justin or I would have to be here while she visited. Not necessarily in the same room with you and Claire for the entire visit.”

Peter & John felt comfortable enough to continue eating their dessert while the four of them discussed the ramifications of Claire coming back to Pittsburgh.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 21

Cynthia walked into Brian’s office. “I understand we are sponsoring soccer teams now.”

Brian smirked. “We have Mother Taylor to blame for that. She was signing John up for a summer soccer program and they needed a sponsor. Justin told me she told them she had someone who would be the sponsor. Not a possible sponsor but a sure thing.”

“Jennifer sounds likes she knew you wouldn’t cross her.”

“She is just a little scary! But who knows maybe we will get a couple local clients out of it. Our name will be on their jerseys and they publish a “booster book” and our ad is on the inside cover.”

Cynthia laughed; she knew that Brian respected Jennifer and tried his best to stay on her good side.

Carole buzzed Brian to say his mother was on the phone. Cynthia offered to get rid of her but Brian decided to bite the bullet and talk to Joan.

“Hello Mother, not that it isn't always a thrill to hear from you but just what do you want?”

“Brian you probably know that your sister is being released early.”

Yes mother, since I am the one who paid for her rehab stay and also to transport her to Philadelphia and back I am aware that Claire is not completing the rehab program.”

“She will be back tomorrow and is going to stay with me. I have ordered bunk beds for your old room. I think it is best to give Claire a day to get settled so I suggest you bring John & Peter back home on Sunday.”

Brian chuckled. “That is not happening. Anything else you want to discuss?”

“Brian now that their mother is back I think it is best to reunite the boys with Claire as soon as possible.”

“Mother, John and Peter’s custody is determined by Family Services. Claire has some requirements to complete before she can resume custody. I have been told that for now only supervised visits will be allowed between Claire and the boys.”

“That is ridiculous. Those boys need to be with their mother before their morals are completely corrupted.”

“Yes, I can see it would be an advantage for John and Peter to be in the care of their neglectful drug addict mother as soon as possible. She has done such a great job in the past year.”

“Your sister has had issues I understand that but I will be here to make sure everything goes smoothly.”

“Since I think you were a really shitty mother that plan makes no sense to me. My plan is to let Family Services do their job and they will determine when Claire is ready to resume custody.”

“Brian if you are not going to cooperate I want you to know that I plan to see a lawyer about resolving this and getting my grandsons away from you and your boy.”

“Mother, my partner Justin is 25 years old so not really a boy. I hope you have plenty of savings because the first time I get a letter from a lawyer is the last time I deposit any money in your bank account.”

“So now you are stooping to blackmail!”

“Just explaining that if you piss me off; I will not continue your vodka subsidy.”

A click let Brian know his mother had hung up. He sent off a quick email to Kathy Sacks to let her know about his mother’s call and cc’ed Justin.

******************************************************************************

About an hour after Joan’s call, Peter answered the door at home. Two Washington County Sheriffs stood on the front stoop. They told Peter they had to talk with an adult.

Since Alice had gone to the farm to get some eggs, Peter showed the sheriffs into the parlor and ran upstairs to get Justin from the studio.

While a paint splattered Justin went downstairs, Peter went to John’s bedroom to let him know what was going on.

Justin walked into the parlor. “Hello. I’m Justin Taylor. What can I do for you?”

“We had a phone call saying that two boys were being held here and needed to be returned to their mother.”

“My partner, Brian Kinney, and I have legal custody of his nephews. They are not being held here.”

John & Peter came into the room with worried expressions on their faces. Justin gave them a smile. “John, would you please go to the study and get a copy of the custody papers out of the file cabinet.”

The boys hurried down the hall together. Meanwhile Alice Simpson drove into the driveway and saw the sheriff department car parked there.

Alice stopped her car and hurried into the house. She heard Justin’s voice in the Parlor and headed there. She stepped into the room. “Justin what’s wrong?”

“The sheriff’s department got a call that we are holding John and Peter here, I guess, against their will.”

John arrived back with the copy of the custody papers which Justin gave to the sheriff.

The men looked it over. “This is just a copy, do you have the original?”

Justin shook his head. “That is in a safe deposit box at our bank in Pittsburgh. You can call Kathy Sacks at Family Services and she can assure you that Brian and I have legal custody of the boys.”

“It says here that you and this Kinney are partners. That means you’re gay right.”

Before Justin could say a word. Alice spoke up. “I know you. You’re Mike Fizzano. I’ve know your parents for years. I fail to see what Brian and Justin being gay has to do with this situation. You have a copy of the legal custody papers that is all you need. I know lots of important people in this county and I will call everyone one of them unless you leave now and never some back here with such a lame ass story. Do some research next time you get some bullshit phone call.”

“Ah, Mrs Simpson we were just doing a routine follow up.”

Alice glared at him. “Apologize to Justin for interrupting his painting for no good reason and get the hell out of here before I get really angry.”

Both men mumbled an apology to Justin and left. Alice showed them to the door and slammed it as soon as they were outside.

Justin and the boys were wide eyed when she came back into the living room. “Alice I never heard you raise your voice before or curse. You were pretty awesome.”

Alice was still a little red in the face. “Those homophobic buttheads! I am going to call our county commissioner and give him a piece of my mind. I know his parents too. I have a good mind to call Joan Kinney and give her a piece of my mind. We all know she is the one that made that stupid phone call.”

Justin came over and gave her a hug. “You need to calm down. The bad men have left now.”

John and Peter laughed nervously and Alice turned to them. “You boys go out to my car and bring in the stuff from the back seat.”

They had no desire to make Alice annoyed with them so they hurried to obey.

When they came back inside Justin assured them that this was not a big deal. The sheriff’s department has just overreacted and it had no effect on their custody. Then he went back up to the studio. He wanted the nephews to see that there was no reason not to go back to a normal routine.

******************************************************************************

Brian had a great presentation that resulted in a new client for Kinnetik. To celebrate he decided to go to the diner for lunch while Cynthia and Ted dealt with the paperwork.

Apparently it was Debbie’s day off since Brian didn’t see or hear her as he slid into an empty booth. He ordered his usual turkey sandwich and unsweetened ice tea. Shortly after he ordered Michael came through the diner door.

Michael spotted Brian immediately but hesitated for a moment before coming over to the booth. “Hey Brian. Mind if I join you?”

Brain shook his head. “Don’t mind at all. Have a seat Mikey. I heard you and Ben are back together, I’m glad.”

“Thanks. I guess you escaped without Boy Wonder today.”

“You know Michael, I’m not sure I ever thought that nickname was funny but I do know that both Justin and I are annoyed by it now.”

Michael flushed with embarrassment. “Sorry. I didn’t mean any harm.”

Brian chuckled. “Maybe someone who hasn’t known you as long as I have would believe that but I call bullshit on not meaning any harm. You have been aware for some time that Justin does not like to be called that. I don’t understand why I can be glad that you and Ben have patched up your relationship but you take every opportunity to try and put down Justin.”

“I don’t think Justin is good for you. He’s made you change who you are. I’m your oldest friend I just want you to be happy.”

The waitress dropped off Brian’s lunch and took Michael’s order, interrupting their conversation.

Brian took a sip of iced tea before relying. “Mikey we have been like brothers but you are mostly blind to what makes me happy. I love Justin and being with him make me very happy. I have changed but I don’t think it is correct to say Justin made me change. I changed because of him but I changed because I wanted to not because he made me.”

Brian ate his sandwich and watched Michael mull over what Brian had just said.

“You were happy being the stud of Liberty Avenue, why would you want to change.”

“Mikey I was self-destructive and kept myself walled off from people so I couldn’t get hurt. I was not really happy.”

“And now living out in the sticks and hardly ever going to Babylon, you are happy?”

“Mikey every morning when I wake up and see Justin next to me I am so happy; I’m always afraid that it might just be a dream because I never thought I could be so happy.”

Michael smiled at his friend but he still could not really believe that Brian was truly happy. It just did not match his image of Brian as the always young, always beautiful stud of Liberty Avenue.

The two old friends chatted while they ate lunch and each hoped that their friendship was back on track.

When Brian returned to Kinnetik carrying takeout containers with lunch for Cynthia & Ted, the paperwork for the new customer was completed, imaged and sent to the customer’s attorney.

Brian was having a great day which continued into the afternoon when he nailed down an appointment with a prospect he had been pursuing for a few weeks. It meant he had to spend a couple days in Atlanta. The good thing about travel was the welcome he got from Justin when he returned home.

Figuring the day could only go downhill Brian left for home about 3 PM.

When he came into the kitchen Alice was on the phone. He gave her a quick wave hello and headed upstairs to change his clothes before heading to the studio.

Justin was excited to see him. He was showing him the almost completed first PPG mural when someone knocked on the studio door. Justin called for them to come in.

Alice came through the door. “Sorry to bother you but I have a couple things I need to tell you.”

Justin turned to Brian. “We had a couple of visitors today.”

Brian looked puzzled. “A couple people from the sheriff’s department came to the house. They had a phone call saying we were holding two boys here.”

Before Brian exploded Alice spoke up. “They had no right to come here like they did and when I got home I let them know they were out of line.”

A wide eyed Brian looked at Justin. “Brian it was really okay. Alice had gone to the farm. Peter answered the door. He came and got me, I showed them our custody papers. They asked if I had the originals and I told them they were in the safe deposit box. That is when Alice came back.”

“Justin is being too kind. Those boys were rude and when they asked if you and Justin were gay I gave them a piece of my mind.”

Brian turned to Justin again. “Brian it’s not like that was the first time someone asked if I was gay.”

Brian turned back to Alice. “You said you had something to tell us.”

“Well Charlie drove over to the sheriff’s office and found out those boys had not really followed procedures. They should have checked a database to see if there were any entries for state cases under your names. Instead since the caller told them you were gay and that the boys were in danger they came over here right away.”

Brian was just barely keeping his temper under control. “I’ll be sure and let our attorney know that before he sends the letter complaining about this situation.”

Alice nodded. “That sounds like a good idea to me. I called our county commission; I’ve known him since he was a boy. With just a little persuasion he told me that the caller was Joan Kinney. That was the name she gave and the phone number the call came from is the one at Joan’s house. I’m sorry to have to tell you that but I doubt you are shocked.”

Justin came over and put his arm around Brian’s waist. “Thanks Alice. We appreciate your loyalty and Charlie’s.”

Alice gave Brian and Justin each a kiss on the cheek and went back down to the kitchen.

“Sunshine how could you not tell me about this visit.”

“Brian I was going to but I didn’t want to hit you with it as soon as you came home. It was really not that big a deal. Those guys were kind of obnoxious but since that was Alice’s first time to see official homophobia it was way more upsetting to her than to me.”

Brian nodded. “You should have called me at the office.”

“And what would that have accomplished? Other than upsetting you. I tried to downplay the whole thing so John and Peter didn’t get too upset.”

“Well I am going to make sure Joan is sorry she made that call.”

Knowing how angry Brian was Justin was concerned about he planned to do. “What are you thinking of doing?”

“I am going to stop her monthly deposit for 2 months. Every time she does something like this I am going to make sure she knows there will be serious consequences.”

Brian picked up the house phone extension and dialed Joan’s number. “Hello mother. I just wanted to let you know that you will not receive any money from me for the next two months. Maybe next time you want to try harassing Justin or me you’ll think about the consequences.”

Brian listened for a few moments. “I know that you made the call to the sheriff’s department.”

He listened again. “Yes I know that Claire living with you will mean you have higher expenses but you have to understand that your actions have consequences. I have no legal obligation to give you money.”

Brian laughed and put down the phone. “She hung up.”

Justin came over and gave Brian a hug. “I love you!”

“I love you too Sunshine. I’m going to go down to the study and email our attorney and Kathy Sacks to let her know what is going on with Joan and Claire.”

He gave Justin a quick kiss and went downstairs.

During dinner Brian and Justin discussed what was happening with Joan and Claire and tried to assure their nephews that they would not be sent back to live with their mother until she had her life in order. The boys were still impressed and amused by Alice taking apart the county sheriffs. She played along warning all 4 of them to be careful not to get on her bad side.

The house phones ring during dinner and Alice answers. She hands the phone to Brian who has a brief conversation before ending the call.

“That was the psychologist for the state. The same one you guys talked to when you were staying at the group house. She wants to come tomorrow to talk with you guys.”

John look annoyed. “Is this the start of going back to Mom?”

Bran smiles. “I think it might be just the opposite. I get the feeling that Family Services wants to have all their bases covered in case Joan and Claire make trouble. I think they want it on record that the psychologist spoke with you and can report that Justin and I have not irreparably screwed you up.”

John & Peter laughed. “So are you saying we should lie?”

Justin shook his head. “All kidding aside. John and Peter you need to take this visit seriously and answer whatever questions the psychologist has for you honestly.”

The boys agreed and Alice told them with a smile that is they didn’t behave they would have to answer to her.

The painters would be working on their bedrooms the next day so their day would get off to an early start.

Brian decided he would work from home so he didn’t miss any of the excitement.

The next morning did start early for Brian and Justin with a long hot shower that included a very satisfying love making session. Brian thought about going back to bed to recover his strength. Instead Justin insisted that Brian get the nephews up while Justin started breakfast.

Just as they finished breakfast the painter arrived with his crew. Justin answered the door. “Justin I’m sorry we couldn’t get here until today but I brought an extra guy so we should be able to get both rooms done today.”


“No Problem. Come on upstairs and we’ll go over what I want done.”

Meanwhile Brian supervised John & Peter’s clean-up of the kitchen before he headed to the study to check his emails.

When Justin came back to the kitchen the boys let him know they were going to check out the pond and the creek. Justin reminded them that the psychologist was due to arrive at 11:30. He headed up to the studio while John & Peter headed out the back door.

A little before 11 o’clock Justin decided to go and get changed out of his paint clothes. His cell rang and he saw Brian’s name in the display. “Hi Bri, I’m just heading over to our room to get changed.”

“Yeah, you can skip that; Dr Austen just arrived.” “Shit”

“Exactly! Any idea where John & Peter might be?” “They were going exploring at the pond and the creek.”

“Did you tell them the good spots to fall into the creek?” “Ha, Ha. I’m headed downstairs.”

When Justin got to the entry hall he say Brian, dressed in comfortable ripped jeans and a black wife beater, standing with a woman neatly dressed in a business suit. Justin had cleaned any paint off his hands but his clothes were still paint splattered.

He extended his hand. “Hi Dr Austen. I’m Justin Taylor. Sorry you have caught us a little off guard. We weren’t expecting you for another half hour.”

Susan Austen smiled. “I know I am early.“

Just than they heard the back door open and Peter and John come in the house arguing about something. The three adults were able to make out the words: “Idiot, shithead & maggot.” Before Alice shushed them and told the psychologist was already here.

Two sweaty, fairly muddy boys came into the entry hall. Justin just shook his head.

Susan Austen just laughed. “I swear I did not plan to come early but it certainly caught you all off guard and that is not a bad thing. Maybe the idiot and maggot can get a little cleaned up while I talk to Mr Kinney and Mr Taylor.”

John & Peter looked sheepish, Brian looked completely amused and Justin exasperated.

Brian led the way into the parlor. He shut the pocket doors to the entry hall and Justin shut the doors to the cross hall.

Brian and Susan sat but Justin remained standing. “I’m not sure I am completely dry so I don’t want to get paint on anything.”

Brian pulled an embarrassed Justin onto his lap. “I’m used to getting paint on me.”

Susan Austen laughed again. “I just wanted to let you know why I am here today and relieve any anxiety you may have about this evaluation. Of course we always visit kids who are in foster care or living with relatives other than their parents. On this case we moved the evaluation forward so that if Mrs Joan Kinney or the boy’s mother decides to try legal means to regain custody we want to have everything we need to evaluate that or to fight it.”

Brian nodded. “I figured that was why you were here. I told the boys that and that there was nothing to be concerned about. We told them just to be honest with you.”

“Great. Do either of you have any questions?” Neither Brian nor Justin had any questions.

Susan wanted to see the boys individually and said she would like to talk to Brian and Justin again after the boys.

John & Peter after being cleaned up by Alice were waiting in the entry hall. Dr Austen asked John to come in and chat with her.

Peter looked at his uncles and how they were dressed. “I guess Mrs Simpson didn’t have a chance to clean you two up.”

Brian swatted Peter on the bottom and Justin just shook his head and headed upstairs. He and Brian changed into clean casual clothes and headed downstairs to the kitchen.

Peter was seated at the counter having milk and cookies until John came into the room a couple minutes later and told his brother that Dr Austen was ready for him.

Alice asked him if wanted milk and cookies and when he said he did she got them for him. Brian asked him if they found anything interesting in the creek and John told the about finding tadpoles in various stages of developing into frogs.

When Peter emerged; Brian & Justin went back into the Parlor.

Dr Austen greeted them with a smile as they sat together on a sofa. “I have to commend you. I know John and Peter have only lived here with you a short time but I found two very different boys today than I encountered right after they were placed in foster care.”

Those remarks caused a full watt sunshine smile on Justin’s face. As always if Justin was happy Brian was happy.

Susan continued. “The boys are of course feeling much more secure in a material way. They have gone from being hungry and never having enough money to being indulged by both of you.”

Justin frowned. “I’m not sure I agree that we have indulged John and Peter.”

Susan smiled. “I did not mean that in any negative way. The boys certainly feel indulged but I understand that mainly you have simply provided them with things they needed. I do feel that what you have mainly done is make both boys feel very secure and they both expressed that they feel both of you genuinely care about them. That is huge!”

Brian spoke up. “We have tried to let them know that even when they go to live with Claire that we will still be interested in them and care about them.”

“Both Peter and John said that they had less apprehension about going to live with their mother knowing that they were no longer alone as they were for this past year. Another major change is that John does not feel as responsible for his brother.

He had so many issues in the last year of school because he felt the need to protect Peter both at home from Paul Clark and from bullies at school. That is a lot of responsibility for a young boy. Peter shows more self-confidence and I attribute that largely to you Mr Taylor. He feels a strong bond with you and that does make John feel a little jealous. He has been number one in his brother’s life without any real competition up until now.

It is a good thing for John to realize his brother has other people to rely on but I don’t think he completely understands that fact. John feels more comfortable with Mr Kinney and he believes that Mr Kinney understands him better.”

Brian had listened carefully to everything Susan had to say. “So that all sounds good what do John and Peter not like about being here with us.”

“They are both somewhat embarrassed by displays of affection between the two of you. That does not concern me because I don’t believe it comes from any homophobic feelings. They are not used to being around people who are in a strong partnership and who love each other. I don’t believe they are any more embarrassed by you then they would be by a heterosexual couple showing affection.

Both boys are in fact impressed by your strong partnership and how you look out for each other. Again this is something they have not experienced before. All in all I feel you are doing a great job and my advice is just keep on doing what you have been doing.”

Brain and Justin thanked her and walked her to the door.

When they got to the kitchen Alice, Charlie, John & Peter were all sitting there waiting to hear what they had to say.

Brian looked very serious and said. “Well guys it has been nice having you here, we’ll miss you.”

A horrified Justin gave him a hard smack to the ass. “BRIAN! That is not even a little funny! Dr Austen just said everything seemed good and we should all just keep doing what we have been doing.”

Brian looked suitably chastised at the look that Justin gave him. Alice lightened the moment by announcing. “Well now we know who the maggot really is.”

She softened her words by patting his cheek. Brian tried to put his arm around Justin’s waist but knew he was in serious trouble when his partner stepped away from him.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Post 513, Justin spent 18 months in NYC.Justin & Brian’s relationship remained intact during the NYC sojourn. I do not own the characters just the situations.

Chapter 22

Brian knew he was in serious trouble with his partner. Since there were other people in the room Justin wasn’t saying anything but the silence spoke volumes to Brian.

“I guess I’ll go to the study and get some work done.”

Justin response was to glance in the opposite direction. “uh huh”

Alice gave Brian a sympathetic smile as he left the kitchen area. John & Peter decided to change in swimsuits and go out to the pool.

Justin went upstairs to check on the painters’ progress before heading to his studio.

Charlie smiled over at Alice. “Wow someone is seriously in the dog house.”

Alice chuckled. “I’d be willing to bet Brian won’t stay there long. He’ll find a way to get back in Justin’s good graces.”

In the studio Justin was measuring out his canvas for the second PPG mural. He was almost finished the first mural so he needed to get this second canvas layout marked off. He could hear John & Peter laughing and splashing in the pool.

Deciding his artwork could wait he went to his room to change and went out to the pool. He challenged the winner of the nephews’ pool volleyball game and lost in a close match with John.

Afterwards the three of them were sitting on the side of the pool. Peter nudged his brother.

John turned to Justin. “You know Uncle Justin we knew that Uncle Brian was joking about what Dr Austen said.”

“I didn’t think it was something that should be joked about. I want you guys to know that we are on your side.”

Peter spoke up. “We really do understand that. It just seems like that is such an Uncle Brian thing to joke about important stuff. He is more comfortable not getting into deep discussions of stuff.”

Justin chuckled. “Well you do have your Uncle Brian figured out but I still think he was wrong.”

Peter nodded. “It was inappropriate but we think you were kind of overly harsh. Uncle Brian looked really upset when you pulled away from him.”

Justin was amazed that John & Peter noticed his interplay with Brian. He also thought it was sweet that they were worried that he and Brian were on the outs.

“Well if you guys are ok with what he said; I guess I’ll go let Brian know he is no longer in trouble.”

Leaving the nephews laughing he headed into the house and down the hall to the study. He gave the door a quick knock and went inside.

Brian looked up and got a quick smile on his face which disappeared when he remembered Justin was annoyed with him.

“Hey Sunshine.”

“The nephews thought I should come in and talk with you.”

“Okay but you have to know I just meant what I said as a joke…”

“Brian, can you just listen to me for a few minutes?” Brian nodded.

“I thought your remark was inappropriate and was worried that it would upset John and Peter. As it turns out they knew you were joking and they think that I was, and I quote, “Overly harsh”. So I guess I overreacted.”

Brian got a huge smile on his face. Not only was he no longer in trouble with his partner but he didn’t even have to apologize. Life didn’t get much better than this!

He got up from his chair, gabbed Justin in a bear hug and kissed him. Justin eagerly returned the kiss and then rested his head against Brian chest.

“You know I love you Brian and I will always be ready to support you. I just really want John and Peter to feel secure, I think they deserve that.”

“I know Sunshine and you can feel free to call me on inappropriate words and actions but I did hate it when you pulled away from me.”

Justin smiled. “That is because you soooooooo adore me!”

Brian laughed but he also knew that was true and he suspected that Justin also knew it was true.

Justin left Brian working in the study and went back to his studio.

Late in the afternoon the bedroom painting was completed. Justin and the nephews inspected the finished rooms. John tried to act cool but Peter was completely delighted with his new room colors.

Justin promised to start painting clouds on the blue ceiling over the weekend. He had rented a painters board that provided an elevated painting platform resting on stepladders at each end.

That night Peter did not think that their stay in the “Sorority House” was as fun an adventure as they originally thought. He found the third floor “kind of spooky” especially with that attic door that lead to who knows what. John agreed they could share one room instead of separate rooms.

Jennifer arrived the next morning at 10:30 to pick up John & Peter for the 11 o’clock showing of the movie. He gave Justin a quick kiss on the cheek and told him that they would be back around 4 PM and winked.

Justin went back to the kitchen where he had left Brian having a second cup of coffee. The kitchen was empty. Justin glanced outside and saw Brian slipping off his shorts and stepping into the hot tub. He glanced over at Justin with a big smile and waved.

Justin pulled off his T shirt and dropped his shorts onto the kitchen floor before heading out to the hot tub. Brian dick was already hard so Justin wasted no time in settling himself down into Brian lap and tightened his butt muscles around his lover’s cock while he and Brian tongue wrestled before Justin started moving up and down.

Four orgasms later, two for each of them, Brian and Justin sat quietly in the hot tub. Justin’s head resting on Brian’s shoulder and Brian’s arm holding his partner close to him.

“God Brian! That was the hottest sex we’ve had in a long time.”

“Sunshine, all our sex is really hot but today was exceptional.”

Once Justin’s fingers started to prune up he decided to start his cloud painting. Brian went to the study to check his emails. Once he finished with his emails Brian went upstairs to offer suggestions to an increasingly annoyed Justin.

Eventually Justin climbed down from the painter’s board, yanked down Brian’s shorts and gave him a quick blowjob before announcing it was time for lunch.

After lunch Brian was informed in no uncertain terms that Peter’s bedroom was off limits to him for the rest of the afternoon. Brian decided to relax on one of the floating chairs in the pool and read while Justin went back to cloud painting.

When Jennifer returned with John & Peter, Brian & Justin were relaxing by the pool drinking beer.

Since Jennifer and the boys were all smiling it appeared that the day had been a success. Each boy carried a bag; John had his soccer supplies and Peter had a digital camera and a binder with inserts for photos and printed materials.

Justin came over to give his mother a kiss. “Looks like you all survived your outing.”

Jennifer eyes narrowed slightly. “Honey I survived you coming out. Compared to that today was a walk in the park.”

Justin smiled and gave his mother a hug. “I love you mommy!”

Peter and John weren’t quite sure what to make of this exchange until Jennifer started to laugh.

Brian turned in his chair. “Mother Taylor. We are grilling some steaks for dinner and there are plenty of them. Would you do us the honor of joining us?”

“Brian that sounds delightful. I accept.”

Brian grinned. “Would you like to see if Tucker would like to join us as well?”

“Thanks but Tucker is away fishing this weekend with his brother and his nephews. So it will just me much to my son’s relief I’m sure.”

“Mom I told you I’m fine with Tucker.”

“Than just why did your whole body tense up when Brian mentioned inviting Tucker to join us for dinner?”

Justin looked embarrassed. “Want to see the new paint job in the boys’ rooms?”

Jennifer laughed. “Nice change of conversation sweetheart. I’d love to see the bedrooms. Lead on.”

Brian stayed behind to get the charcoal started while the rest of the group went upstairs.

They went first to John’s room. Jennifer had heard about the color choices and was surprised that it looked better in person then she thought it would.

She wasn’t as accepting of the furnishings. “Where did this bedroom furniture come from?”

Justin looked a little chagrinned. “It came with the house.It has a new mattress.”

John spoke up. “It really is fine for me. I don’t mind it at all.”

Jennifer shook her head. “It’s horrible and it doesn’t go with the paint colors at all. What you need to do is paint it white, a really glossy white. The white headboard and bedside tables will really pop against that black wall. Then we’ll get a couple of red lamps for some color.”

Justin smiled. “I guess that is doable. John can help.”

Jennifer continued looking around. “This chair is screaming for a trip to the Salvation Army. John also needs some shelves and a desk. I just redid my home office and we ordered the furniture online. They have lots of color choices and styles. Tucker and I assembled it. I think we should stick to white in here. What kind of chair do you think you’d like John?”

“I know it is kind of strange but I really like those chairs on the patio with the slanty backs? I think the name starts with an “A”.”

Jennifer nodded. “Adirondack chair. We can go to Pier One and get a white one of those and a red cushion. That would go great in here.”

John glanced over at Justin to try and see what he thought about all the new purchases. “I don’t know Grandmom Jen. That seems like a lot of new stuff to buy.”

“Oh don’t worry about that. Your uncles can afford it.”

Justin just laughed. He knew it would do no good to argue with his mother and the truth was they could afford it.

They moved to Peter’s room. As soon as they went into the room Peter got a huge smile on his face.

“Uncle Justin! You started painting my clouds. They look awesome. Thank you so much!”

He came over and gave Justin a hug but kept his eyes on the ceiling.

“I did as much as I could today until my neck got tired from looking up all the time.”

Jennifer smiled at how pleased Peter was. “They look beautiful honey. This maple bedroom set is really nice. Much better than the furniture in the other room. Another horrible chair though. What kind of chair do you want Peter.”

“I had a friend who had a chair in his room that had a wood frame with a cushion but it was kind of almost like a nest.”

Jennifer nodded. “Sounds like a Papasan chair. We can get one of those at Pier One when we buy John’s chair. You need a bookcase and desk same as John. I think they have a sky blue color that would look good in here. We can order the furniture and get it delivered her. Tucker and I did a good job assembling it at my house so we’ll come here and get it put together after it gets delivered.”

They went downstairs together but Jennifer and the nephews headed to the study. In a short time they had located a couple red lamps that Jennifer loved and the assembly required furniture.

Jennifer strolled out to the patio. “Brian I need your credit card to order some things for the boys’ bedrooms.”

Justin was setting the table. “How much is it all going to cost.”

“No one is talking to you honey. Brian I have it all pulled up on the study PC. I just need your credit card.”

Brian had no intention of asking any questions which Jennifer knew. He came down to the study and opened a drawer and handed Jennifer a credit card before heading back to his grilling duties.

When Jennifer and the boy got back outside; she informed Brian what he needed to buy for painting John’s bedroom furniture. She said that since Justin was busy painting clouds it was up to Brian to help John paint his furniture.

A chuckling Justin went into the kitchen to get the pasta salad for dinner. Jennifer followed him while John & Peter went over to observe Brian’s grilling technique.

“Justin I’m sure the boys will tell you this but I wanted to give you a heads up. Claire called both the boys’ cell phones while we were in the movie and left several messages. She called again while we were at lunch and she wants them to visit her tomorrow.

I know a little bit about Brian’s family life from Debbie. I don’t think he should take the boys over to his mother’s to see Claire. I have an Open House to sit at tomorrow but I could take them for the visit after that.”

Justin walked over and hugged his mother. “Mom you really are the best; even if you just cost us a small fortune.”

“I just don’t want to see Brian hurt any more by that horrible woman.”

Justin cleared his throat to clear the lump there. “I love you Mom. Don’t worry I won’t let Brian take the boys. I’ll take them for the visit.”

Jennifer started to object but Justin stopped her. “Mom, Joan can push Brian’s buttons but believe me when I tell you that I can push hers and really enjoy doing it.”

Jennifer smiled and together they went back outside.

Over dinner John brought up the topic of the proposed visit.

Brian was furious. “That is NOT going to happen!”

Justin put his hand over Brian’s. “I think we should go along with this request. The boys need to see Claire and we don’t want to be the ones who seem uncooperative.”

“Claire can come here to see John and Peter.”

“Brian this first visit can be handled better by going to Joan’s. That way the boys and I can leave whenever we want.”

“Sunshine you are not going to Joan’s house. I agree it might be better to go there but I’ll take them. I am not going to let Joan vent her homophobia on you.”

“Brian, your mother always finds a way to push your buttons. My very existence pushes buttons for her. Me in control of the visit will drive her crazy and if she gets too out of control we are out of there.”

John spoke up. “Peter and I won’t let grandmother give Uncle Justin a hard time. If he says leave we are all out of there. Uncle Justin is right about grandmother, she will hate that he is the one to take us there.”

Brian was not totally happy with the plan but reluctantly agreed, especially when Jennifer went along with the plan.

Brian and John would go to Home Depot in the morning to get the supplies for the furniture painting. They would do the prime coat and then after lunch Justin and the boys would go to Joan’s house.

John called his mother and told her they would visit her after lunch.

After dinner Jennifer headed home after hugs and kisses all around. John and Peter were pretty blown away by “Grandmom Jen”. They really enjoyed spending time with her and she seemed to genuinely be interested in them.

******************************************************************************

The next afternoon Justin parked the SUV in front of Joan’s house. It had been a quiet ride to the city. John and Peter were clearly apprehensive about this visit.
Justin put his arms around the boys’ waists as they walked up to Joan’s house. He was amazed when John did not pull away.

Justin gave them a big insincere smile and rang the doorbell. Joan Kinney came to the door and frowned when she saw Justin standing there.

“I thought Brian would bring my grandsons to visit their mother.”

“Hello Mrs Kinney. Brian had better things to do so I brought the boys. Can we come in?”

Joan continued to stand in the doorway. “There is no need for you to stay. If you leave your phone number I can call you when John and Peter are ready to leave.”

“As you know Family Services are allowing only supervised visits. So it is all three of us or none of us.”

Joan flushed with annoyance. “Surely I am a suitable person to supervise a visit between my grandsons and my daughter. This is a family matter and does not concern you at all.”

“Actually this is more a Family Services matter than a family matter. You are actually not a suitable person and in case you didn’t understand the first time I told you the rules. It is either all three of us or none of us. Your choice.”

John actually gave a quick laugh at the extremely annoyed expression on his grandmother’s face which earned him a stern look from Joan.

“John just what do you think is so funny.”

“Well grandmother I think it is kind of amusing that you are trying to argue about this with Uncle Justin. He has told you a couple times that it is either all three of us or none of us. Not sure what is so hard to understand.”

“I do not appreciate that flippant answer from you John. You need to be more respectful.”

Justin intervened. “You need to back off Mrs Kinney. You asked a question and John gave you an answer. It is not your place to correct John’s behavior. I would like to point out that respect is something that is earned not given.”

Joan didn’t reply but she stepped back to allow them to enter her house.

Claire was standing just inside the living room and had obviously heard the exchange at the front door. She ignored Justin and grabbed John and then Peter to give them a hug and kiss.

Justin settled into a chair and took an art magazine out of his messenger bag. John and Peter sat on the couch.

Claire looked over at Justin. “Do you actually plan to sit there for this whole visit?”

“Yes” “Well it could take a while. Mother and I thought my sons might even want to stay for dinner.”

Justin looked up from his magazine. “Brian expects us home in time for dinner. So don’t worry about that.”

“Well suppose John and Peter prefer to stay here for dinner?”

John spoke up. “We won’t.”

Claire launched into a monolog about how much she had missed John & Peter and how horrible the rehab had been and generally how sad her life had become. John just stared at her with his no emotion face and Peter seemed genuinely confused by his mother’s selfish ranting.

Without any feedback or encouragement Claire wound down.

“I wasn’t sure I would be able get in touch with you yesterday. I left you each some messages but you never called me back.”

Peter glanced at his brother who just continued to stare at his mother. “We were at a movie when you called. Grandmom Jen took us to the movies and out to lunch. You got John on his phone while we are at lunch.”

Joan sat forward in her chair. “Who is Grandmom Jen? As far as I know I am your only grandmother.”

“Grandmom Jen is Uncle Justin’s mother. She is really nice.”

Now Claire got into the conversation. “Why would you call her that?”

Peter started to feel a little flustered and unwilling to take on both his mother & grandmother. John now decided to get involved.

“That is what Gus calls her. She said that since Gus will be here for a visit in a couple weeks she thought it would be less confusing for him if we called her the same thing. It was a little awkward at first but she was so much fun yesterday and seemed so interested in getting to know us that by the end of the day the name really started to come naturally.”

Peter was emboldened by his brother’s comments. “When we got home she came up to see our bedrooms with the new paint. She decided that John’s furniture needed to be painted and that we needed new chairs, bookcases and desks. We found them on line and Grandmom Jen made Uncle Brian give us his credit card. When the bookcases and desks get delivered she and her boyfriend, Tucker, are going to come and put them together for us.”

Joan stood up. “Claire help me in the kitchen. The boys would probably like some iced tea and cookies.”

When their mother and grandmother left the room; John & Peter looked over at Justin. He looked up from his magazine and shrugged. “I have no idea what’s going on.”

A few minutes later Joan and Claire returned each carrying 2 glasses of iced tea and a box of store brand chocolate chip cookies. Claire handed a glass to John and the other to Peter then took one from her mother and sat down.

Joan sat in her chair and put the glass on the table beside her. “Boys your mother and I are concerned about all these faux relatives you seem to be acquiring. By the time Brian’s son visits you will probably be back living with your mother. Redecorating your rooms for such a short stay seems like a waste of time and money.”

John and Peter looked a little panicked as Justin put down his magazine and turned towards their Grandmother.

“Mrs Kinney first let me say that I did bring my own bottle of water so no need to worry about rudely not offering me a cold drink.”

Peter spoke up. “Uncle Justin you can have this glass of iced tea. John and I can share.”

“No thanks buddy I really don’t want any but really felt I couldn’t let such bad behavior pass without comment. Mrs Kinney I am curious why you think Claire can resume custody so quickly. Our understanding from Family Services is that Claire needs to find a job, save some money and have a suitable place to live before she can regain custody.”

Joan had stood up. “Now that my daughter is back home, of course her sons must come back and live with her. It is urgent that they come back to a good Christian home before they are permanently scarred by living with you and my son.”

“Again, our understanding from Family Services is that this house would not be acceptable to them. That is not even taking into account that you are an alcoholic and we have no proof that Claire is off drugs for good. I’m also not sure that your finances can support a four person household especially if Brain and I stop giving you money every month.”

“That money come from my son, it has nothing to do with you young man!”

“That money comes from our JOINT account so it is given to you by both of us. We have no intention of abandoning John and Peter. Brian and I are determined to make sure that they never again have to suffer the neglect they were subject to in the past year.”

Joan’s face was beet red and she started to tremble a little. “I will insure that whatever failings my daughter has as a mother will be corrected while she is living here.”

Justin laughed. “You are going to give mothering lessons? That is absurd, how in the world would you know anything about being a good mother or even an adequate grandmother. You and Claire seem quite upset that the boys call my mother Grandmom Jen but tell me,Joan, when was the last time you took your grandsons to a movie or lunch? Or for that matter when was the last time you showed any interest in their lives and what they were doing?”

“I want you to leave my house!"

“Happily. Come on boys.”

John & Peter hurriedly got to their feet. Claire started to cry.

“John, Peter you don’t have to leave. You can stay here, we’ll fight Family Services for keeping us apart.”

John looked over at his mother. “The only fight that Peter and I are interested in is the fight to stay with Uncle Brian and Uncle Justin. We certainly don’t want to live here! We also don’t want to be hungry and ignored again or never have any money.”

Claire continued to cry as her sons followed Justin out of the house.

Joan turned to her. “For heaven’s sake Claire pull yourself together. I can’t stand to hear all that caterwauling.”

Joan took her iced tea out to the kitchen, poured it down the drain and filled her glass with vodka. When she got back to the living room Claire had fled upstairs to her bedroom.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Post 513, Justin spent 18 months in NYC before coming back to Pittsburgh 6 months ago. Justin & Brian’s relationship remained intact during the NYC sojourn. I do not own the characters just the situations.

Chapter 23

Justin drove a few blocks away from Joan’s house before pulling over and parking. “Are you guys OK?”

John looked over from the passenger seat. “That wasn’t as bad as I thought it might be.”

From the backseat Peter chimed in. “No bloodshed, I think we dodged a bullet. We have had a lot of experience with Mom and Grandmother. They acted pretty much exactly the way we thought they would.”

John shook his head. “You know just about every time we ever visited Grandmother when we got outside Mom would say to us “Just be glad you never had to live with that!”. Now she seems to think we should be jumping with joy at the prospect of moving into Uncle Brian’s old room. I’m not sure if she is still taking drugs or if she is just crazy.”

Justin chuckled. “If you guys are good so am I. I suspect we will be hearing from Family Services. John would you call Uncle Brian and tell him to call in an order for Chinese take-out. Tell him we’ll pick it up on our way home.”

The conversation on the ride home mostly concerned getting the boys bedrooms back in shape and the startup of their summer programs.

Brian had the kitchen table set when they arrived home with dinner. He gave Justin a what’s happening look but his partner just shrugged.

“So guys how did things go with visiting your mother?”

Brian was surprised when it was Peter who answered. “About what we expected. Mom cried about how sad her life is. Grandmother was rude and unreasonable. When we couldn’t stand it anymore we left.”

Justin and John laughingly agreed. After devouring the takeout, John & Brian put the first coat of white paint on his furniture and Justin finished the clouds on Peter’s ceiling while Peter moved his bed frames out of the hall and reassembled the beds in his room.

Later in the master bath Justin saw Brian staring at himself in the mirror.

“Brian, what are you looking at?”

“I am trying to decide who the fuck I have become. How did I become an uncle who helps a teenager paint his bedroom furniture? Furniture that is being painted at the request of my sort of mother in law.”

Justin laughed. “Don’t worry it will be our little secret. I am surprised you know so much about painting furniture, you are full of surprises.”

“Sunshine, I learned everything I know from asking Charlie, he was a font of information.”

“I wondered where that skill had been hiding. Come to bed now and I’ll reintroduce you to hot stud that I first fell in love with.”

A smiling Brian let himself be led to their bed.

*****************************************************************************

The next morning Brian & Justin got an email from Ted letting them know there were no issues on the Bloom building title search. Ted had the financing in place so he had arranged the closings on the building and the gallery for Friday morning at Kinnetik’s office.

Justin had just finished reading the email when he got a phone call from Kathy Sacks.

“Hi Justin. I hear the meeting with Claire and her sons didn’t go so well yesterday. My supervisor got a call from a sobbing Claire this morning saying you disrupted the meeting.”

Justin sighed. “Not exactly an accurate report but it wasn’t a good meeting. John and Peter are pretty horrified at the prospect of living with their grandmother. They are also disappointed that their mother only wants to talk about what a hard time she has been going through without acknowledging what John and Peter suffered.”

“That’s why I’m calling. We need to be sure we have everything we need to protect John and Peter. No one here believes that living in that house is in their best interest.”

“So what do we need to do?”

“First I need to know if you and Brian are doing okay dealing with your nephews living with you.”

“Actually it had gone really well so far, better than we expected. I think the boys are happy here as well.”

“We need to have someone interview the boys about the meeting yesterday. We’d like to have someone come over from our Washington County tomorrow morning.”

“Sorry Kathy, that won’t work. Tomorrow is the first day of Peter’s summer program. John starts soccer practice on Wednesday.”

“Let me see if I can get someone to come out and meet with them today. Would that be okay?”

Justin agreed and went back to work on finishing his murals. A short time later Kathy called back to ask if he could take John & Peter to the Family Services office for their interview.

“When did they want us to come?”

“Could you be there within the hour?”

Justin made an exasperated noise but agreed.

John & Peter were just finishing breakfast when Justin went downstairs and let them know to get ready to head to the Family Services office.

****************************************************************************

When they got to the office John & Peter said they preferred to meet together with the case worker. They followed her into a conference room while Justin sat in the lobby with his art magazine.

“Hello John and Peter. I am Anna Simons. I appreciate you coming in today. I would like to discuss your meeting yesterday with your mother. She called our Pittsburgh office today to let us know she did not think the meeting went well.”

John snorted. “All my mother wants to do is complain about what a hard time she is having and how nothing that happened is her fault.”

Anna looked up from the pad where she was taking notes. “What would you like your mother to talk about with you?”

Peter answered. “We would like Mom to acknowledge how hard the last year has been on John and me. She completely ignored us the last six months we lived in Paul’s house. Hardly any food, no money, no interest in anything we were doing, it was horrible. Now she acts like taking drugs gives her a free pass.”

John nodded. “She has never been mother of the year; even when we lived in our own house she was often out late at night and we had lots of breakfasts with men we never met before. She always complained about grandmother and said we should be glad that we never had to live with her. Now she acts like we should be thrilled to share a tiny bedroom in grandmother’s house.”

Anna leaned back in her chair. “Your mother said that Mr Taylor interfered in your interactions with her and made you leave before you had much of a visit. She complained that having him there made the visit between you and her very awkward.”

John and Peter both shook their heads as John spoke up. “Grandmother made everything awkward from the beginning. She tried to make Uncle Justin leave us there without him. We all knew that it was supposed to be a supervised visit.”

Peter added to his brother’s remarks. “Grandmother said we had to come and live with Mom at her house because staying with Uncle Brian and Uncle Justin would corrupt us. She seemed really upset that we call Uncle Justin’s mother Grandmom Jen and that she took us out for the day. Grandmom Jen has taken more interest in us than our grandmother ever did.”

Anna did not seem surprised. “Do you feel uncomfortable living with two gay men or do you feel any pressure on you to behave in ways that are not comfortable for you?”

Both John and Peter looked surprised. John spoke up first. “The uncles have been great. Mr and Mrs Simpson have been really nice to us. Even Uncle Justin’s mother has been really nice to us. She checked on summer programs for us and got us signed up. There was no reason to do that except she was being kind.”

Peter again added his opinions. “We have clean rooms to sleep in, plenty of food to eat, both Uncle Brian and Uncle Justin talk to us and seem to be interested in what we have to say. Uncle Justin just painted clouds on the ceiling of my room because I said that was something I always wanted to have. Uncle Brian is helping John paint the furniture in his bedroom so it will look better. Grandmom Jen and her boyfriend are going to come and assemble some furniture for our rooms. Our Mom and Grandmother never did anything like that for us, never in my whole life has anyone been this nice to me.”

John had more to add. “Uncle Brian and Uncle Justin seem to be really in love with each other. Sometimes when they kiss it make us a little embarrassed but neither of us feels like they are trying to make us do anything we don’t want to do. They are fixated on each other not us.”

Anna smiled. “It sounds like you are both happy living with your uncles. Do you see a time when you would like to go back and live with your mother?”

John and Peter looked at each other before John answered for them. “Mom would have to acknowledge how badly she treated us and we would have to be able to have our own place to live. We never want to have to live with grandmother.”

Anna thanked them for being honest and asked if they had any questions.

Peter asked the question they both wanted the answer to. “Are we going to have to live at Grandmother’s house with Mom?"

Anna shook her head. “I cannot see a time when this department would recommend that happening. If something changed and Mr Kinney and Mr Taylor could no longer continue custody we would have to re-examine our options.”

The boys didn’t have any more questions for Anna. She went out with them to the lobby and thanked Justin for bringing them in to the office on such short notice.

On the ride home the nephews told Justin about their meeting and what Anna had to say. When they got home Justin sent Brian an email to bring him up to date.

John and Peter put a second coat of paint on John’s bedroom furniture before heading out to the pool.

****************************************************************************

After dinner Brian headed upstairs to check out the paint job John & Peter had done on the bedroom furniture. John followed him up.

“This looks good. You and your brother did a great job on the second coat. I have an easy day tomorrow. I’ll try and get home early and we can get the first coat of polyurethane on the furniture.”

“Uhm, that’d be great Uncle Brian.”

“I guess you’re anxious to be back into your own bedroom and not share with your brother.”

“Yeah, well we’re used to sharing so that was okay… it will be good to have my own room again. I appreciate you helping with all this… I know you’re really busy and well thanks.”

“Just ask me kiddo?” “Ask you what?”

“Whatever it is you are trying to work up the nerve to ask me.”

John looked down at the floor still uncomfortable. “Kiddo, I told you before you can ask me anything you want. If I don’t think it is a pertinent question I’ll tell you but I won’t get angry.”

John looked up and blurted out his question. “How long are you and Uncle Justin willing to let us stay here?”

“Wow. I wasn’t expecting that. It isn’t something that Justin and I have really discussed. We knew that it would take months rather than days or weeks for your mother to get her life together.”

“The thing is Uncle Brian we don’t want to have to go and live at Grandmother’s house. We don’t mind sharing a bedroom but that tiny room at Grandmother’s is just too small. We’d be on top of each other all the time. There is nowhere else in that house to go and be alone. In just over three years I will be 18 and then maybe I could get custody of Peter myself but will you let us stay here that long?”

“John, I still have hopes that Claire will get her act together. I can’t see her being able to put up with living with Joan. I know what it is like to live in that house.”

“That’s the problem Uncle Brian, living in that house with Grandmother. All she ever does is find fault with whatever Peter and I do.”

“It really is not Justin and my decision to make but I will tell you that we will try our very best to make sure you never have to move in with Joan. That is something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. The good news is that Family Services isn’t in favor of you going there to live.”

“But Uncle Brian, if Mom stays there for a long time, for years, where else do Peter and I have to go.”

“John there is no time limit on how long you live with Justin and me. As I said it is not really our decision to make but we all seem to be getting along so I don’t see us putting you guys out on the street anytime soon. You and your brother can stay here as long as you need.”

John turned away so his uncle couldn’t see the tears of relief in his eyes. Brian came over and out his arm around John’s shoulders.
“Try not to worry John. You are not alone anymore. Uncle Justin and I are on your side.”

John grabbed at Brian and sobbed against his chest. A horrified Brian patted John’s back and wished Justin would appear. He felt sure his partner would know what comforting words or actions would make John feel better. Brian had no idea what to do or say and was grateful when John pulled away and wiped his face.

“You go ahead downstairs Uncle Brian. I’ll be down in a minute.”

Brian went downstairs to the kitchen, gave Justin a look and headed to the study. “I’m just going to check my emails.”

Justin turned to Peter. “You and John have whatever you want for dessert. I have to talk to Uncle Brian.”

When Justin opened the study door he saw that Brian had already poured himself a glass of Beam and was taking a sip.

“Brian. What’s wrong?”

“Oh my god Sunshine! John is really worried about having to move in with Joan. I tried to reassure him and I told him you and I were on his side. Than he grabbed me and cried and cried. I had no fucking idea what to do or say. You know I hate all that emotional stuff. Why couldn’t he cry on you?”

Justin couldn’t help smiling at just how panicked Brian was. “Brian, John feels comfortable with you and that is a good thing. I think he is a little bit too much like you to have too many crying sessions with you. He must have been super upset and will probably be embarrassed.”

“I don’t want him to be embarrassed but god it was awful.” Brian took a big gulp of his drink and sat down.

Justin laughed. “Don’t worry if anyone looks like they are going to cry tonight I will grab them and protect you.”

Brian still didn’t see any humor in the situation. “Thanks for the support Sunshine.”

Justin came over and gave Brian a kiss. “Come on out to the kitchen while I have some dessert. We don’t want John to think you are avoiding him.”

Brian finished his drink and stood up. Justin put his arm around Brian’s waist and they headed back to the kitchen.

John’s attention was focused on his slice of pie. Justin started to talk to Peter about the first day of his summer program. The first thing he was going to learn about was the Heinz factory and on Thursday they would actually tour the factory.

After that they talked about soccer practice starting on Wednesday and eventually John seemed less self-conscious.

The next morning Justin took Peter to his session. When he got home John was sitting in the kitchen. “Hi Uncle Justin, can we talk.”

“Sure John. What’s up?”

“I think maybe Uncle Brian is annoyed with me. I’m sure he told you about me losing it and crying last night.”

“Yes he told me. You have to let that go. Your Uncle Brian does not want you to apologize or even talk about what happened. He will pretend it never happened and you should do the same. It has nothing to do with you. Uncle Brian has a hard time when faced with any emotional outburst. He feels bad that he didn’t do anything to comfort you but that is just who your Uncle Brian is.”

John looked relieved. “So he isn’t mad at me.”

Justin smiled. “NO! Really both Brian and I just want you and Peter to know we are on your side. If you are living here or in the future you are living somewhere else you can always depend on our support.”

“Thanks Uncle Justin. I’m going to go help Charlie weed the vegetable garden.”

Brian came home early and on his way home he picked up Peter. Brian and John put the finish coat on John’s bedroom furniture. Both of them were pleased that they could ignore the previous day’s awkward interaction.

After lunch on Wednesday Justin took John to his first soccer practice. Grandmom Jen was going to pick him up after first collecting Peter so that they could go to Pier One and pick out chairs for their bedrooms.

At Kinnetik Brian was having a good morning. He was just considering what to do about lunch when Carole buzzed him. “Brian your sister is here to see you.”

Brian surprised both women when he answered he would be right out.

He emerged from the office in his casual attire of rust colored cashmere sweater and brown Armani slacks. Brian recognized Claire’s outfit as being one Justin and the boys had purchased for her.

“Hi Claire. I was just going to go for lunch. How about I treat you to lunch at the Liberty Diner. I’m glad you stopped by. I’ve been thinking that we should get together and talk.”

Brian took his sister’s arm and led her out of the building. He kept up small talk as they walked the few blocks to the diner.

Brian was grateful not to see Debbie at the diner. Looked like it was her day off.

Once they were seated in a booth and had ordered Claire asked her brother. “Okay Brian what’s going on? I can’t remember the last time we had a meal together.”

“Well I think we need to talk about John and Peter and their custody.”

“You need to return my sons to me, it isn’t right that you are keeping them from me.”

Brian sighed. “Claire can we keep this conversation based in facts and not melodrama. I have nothing to do with you losing custody of your sons. You lost custody because your sons were living in a house with two drug addicts. In a filthy house where no one was paying much attention to them and in a house where there was no food.”

Claire’s face flushed, Brian wasn’t sure if it was caused by annoyance or embarrassment.

“I’m sure there was something there for them to eat, it just wasn’t what they wanted to eat.”

Brian shook his head. “Claire, the reports from the police and the social worker both state that there was NO food in the house. John has told us that he used the last can of tuna for dinner the night before your OD and the last of the peanut butter and bread for their lunch.”

“It wasn’t my fault, there was nothing I could do about it. Paul wasn’t giving me any money.”

“You are the mother Claire! You need to be responsible for what happens to your children. You had them living with a drug addict and now you want to move them in with our mother. I guess you won’t be responsible for the hell their life will be under Joan Kinney’s thumb.”

“I don’t have any alternative. I will be there to keep mother from being too overbearing, I’ll take care of my sons.”

“Like you took care of them in Paul’s house for the last year?”

Their lunch got delivered before Claire could reply. She concentrated on eating her sandwich for a few moments before replying.

“Mother was very upset that you sent John and Peter to visit with your boy instead of coming yourself. It was awkward to have him there listening to everything we said.”

“Claire, Justin and I have known each other for seven years. I will admit he was a boy when I first met him but he is almost 25 years old now and you are both well aware of his name. I prefer never to go to Joan’s house and since the state requires your visits to be supervised Justin brought the boys to visit you. John and Peter say that their grandmother was the one who made them feel ill at ease.”

“If you don’t want John and Peter and I to live with mother you can well afford to pay for somewhere else for us to live.”

Brian ate some of his salad and stared at his sister before he answered her.

“You know Claire you and I are really the only people in the world who know how horrible it was to have Jack and Joan Kinney as parents and what hell it was to live in that house. We both made plans on how to get away from that hell. My plan was to work hard at school so I could go to college and get a job to earn money so I would never have to live in that house again.

It seems to me that your plan was to wait for some prince charming to ride up on a white horse and rescue you. You thought that Ron Townsend was that prince charming but that didn’t work out. According to your sons there were quite a few other prince charming tryouts along the way. Somehow you thought Paul, the drug addict, is going to solve all your problems. Now, for reasons I cannot begin to understand, you think I am going to bankroll your life.

Claire, the bottom line is that my plan worked and I think you need a new plan. The new plan should involve you doing something instead of sitting around waiting for someone to rescue you. In the meantime I am going to do everything I can to prevent John and Peter having to live in Joan Kinney’s house!”

Claire slid out of the booth. “Fuck you Brian! I am NOT going to let you steal my sons from me you degenerate faggot.”

Perhaps not the wisest thing to say in a diner full of gay people. Claire exited to a chorus of boos, insults and threats.

Brian finished his lunch and headed back to Kinnetik still amazed at how delusional his sister was.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad


Chapter 24

When Brian arrived home on Wednesday he spots Jennifer’s car in the driveway with a piece of rope holding down her trunk lid. He knew instinctively this was not a good thing. Once he got in the house he headed to the entry hall. There were cartons laying on the floor and Peter & John were caring a carton up the steps. An amused Justin was chatting with his mother.

Justin spotted Brian as soon as he stepped into the hall and came over to give him a kiss hello.

“Welcome home Brian. Mom’s internet purchases got delivered today and she took Peter and John to Pier One after soccer practice. I hope Kinnetik profits are still up, Mom seems to think there is some sort of contest to see how much of our money can be spent in one week’s time.”

Brian laughed. “Well Mother Taylor I think you are safely in first place although my sister seems to think I should rent or buy her a place to live. If I somehow lose my mind and actually do that she could skyrocket past you to the finish line.”

Justin gave his partner a raised eyebrow look. “But there is no danger of that happening correct?”

“Relax Sunshine. I had lunch with Claire and thought maybe I could talk some sense into her but as you can probably guess that didn’t happen. So let’s do our share of the work and unload the purchases from Mother Taylor’s car.”

Working together everything got moved upstairs. Before she left; Jennifer said she and Tucker would be back the next day to assemble the furniture and finish the bedrooms redecoration.

*****************************************************************************

Justin was up early on Thursday to take Peter to his field trip to the Heinz Factory. Peter had to be at the community center before the bus left at 9 AM. A couple miles down the main road a car turned out onto the road from a side street. Justin and Peter followed the car all the way to the community center.

“Gee Peter, I hope the people in that car don’t think we are following them.”

Peter laughed. “I think that is Josh and his mother.” “How do you know Josh?”

“I met him at the lecture on Tuesday. He told me he lived near our house.”

Justin nodded and was happy that Peter called it “our house”. He knew he would tell Brian that bit of news but felt pretty sure Brian wouldn’t care but Justin would still tell him.

When they reached the community center Peter got out of the car and called hello to Josh who walked back towards Justin’s SUV. Peter introduced Josh to His Uncle.

Josh’s mother was still in her car talking on her cell phone. When she got out Justin introduced himself.

“Hi I’m Justin Taylor. Looks like my nephew Peter and your son got to know each other on Tuesday.”

Josh’s mother shook hands with Justin. “Nice to meet you. I’m Mary Gardner. Are you the Justin Taylor who is an artist?”

Justin smiled and feeling a little embarrassed whenever anyone recognized him. “Guilty as charged.”

“I work for an accounting firm and our office is in PPG Place. There been a lot of information about the new murals. We are all looking forward to seeing them.”

“Well the first one is just about ready to be delivered but I’m not sure the lobby remodel is completed yet.”

Mary smiled and nodded before turning her attention to her son. “Joshie, I just got off the phone with Dad. We both have stuff we can’t get out of this afternoon. I’m not sure who I’ll get to pick you up but someone will be here when the bus gets back. I’ll call you when I know who it will be.”

Josh gave his mother that patented look all children know that expresses just how lame they think their parent is being and inflicts as much guilt as possible on that parent.

“We have to turn our phones off during the factory tour!”

“Well check it on the bus ride back here, I’ll leave a message.”

Peter gave Justin a look that said help me make a friend!

Justin turned to Mary Gardner. “I am going to be picking Peter up when they get back. I’ll be glad to glad to drop Peter off at your house.”

“His father and I are going to be late getting home today. I appreciate the offer but I really have to find someone to pick him and stay with him until we get home.”

Josh was horrified. “Mom I do NOT need a babysitter!!!”

Justin smiled at Mary. “Josh is welcome to come back to our house. After I pick up Peter I have to pick up his brother, John, at soccer practice. We have a pool and video games so I’m sure the three of them will be able to amuse themselves. My mother and her friend will be at our house this afternoon helping with some redecoration to the boys’ bedroom and they are staying for dinner. I’m sure Alice, our housekeeper, will make plenty of food so we can offer Josh dinner.”

Peter and Josh were both looking pretty pleased. Peter added some information. “Mrs Simpson is a great cook. Today she is making baked ham with pineapples and brown sugar.”

Josh put on his best begging face. “Mom can I please go stay at Peter’s house until you get home.”

Mary was torn. This solved her problem and would make Josh happy but she had never met Justin and wasn’t even sure where he lived.
“I’m not sure Josh. I don’t like to impose on Peter’s Uncle. I’m not even sure where they live.”

Justin recognized Mom caution and understood it. “We live just down the road from you. We have the stone gateposts at the end of our driveway.”

Now Mary looked impressed. “You live in the estate!” She blushed a little. “I’m sorry that is just what my husband and I call your house. We can just get a glimpse of it when the leaves are off the trees.”

Justin smiled. “And you do kind of know who I am. I’m Justin Taylor the artist.”

Mary laughed and of course she could see the pleading looks on Peter’s & Josh’s faces. She agreed and hoped her husband wouldn’t be too upset. She and Justin exchanged cell phone numbers and Mary left for work.

Justin said good bye to the boys and reminded Peter to call him when they were about 20 minutes from arriving back to the community center.

When Justin got home he saw Tucker’s car parked in the driveway. Jennifer and Tucker were hard at work assembling furniture. Justin stopped by the boys’ bedroom to say hello on his way to the studio.

A little before noon Charlie delivered John to soccer practice. Justin put the finishing touches on his first mural for PPG and made an appointment for his shipping company to come and package the mural for shipping. He also contacted the head of the PPG Place remodeling committee who was delighted to hear that the first mural would be delivered ahead of schedule.

To take a little break from his work on the murals Justin started on a painting for his August show. He lost track of time working on the painting until he got the call from Peter. That meant he didn’t have time to change out of his paint clothes.

Justin pulled into the community center parking lot just ahead of the bus. He got out of the car to wait for Peter and Josh. He noticed a couple people looking over at his paint splattered clothes and felt a little self-conscious.

Josh and Peter, happy and laughing, got off the bus. After saying good bye to several other kids they ran over to Justin. Both were carrying a box of Heinz samples from their factory tour.

“Hi guys. Did you have a good time?”

“Uncle Justin! It was a lot of fun. The factory tour was really interesting.”

“Thanks for picking me up Mr Taylor. It was a great day.”

“Oh, we have to come up with something different than Mr Taylor. How about you just call me Justin?”

Josh looked a little concerned. “My parents don’t like me to call adults by their first names.”

Peter shrugged. “Just call him Uncle Justin like I do. That should be okay with your folks.”

Josh looked at Justin. “Is that alright?”

“Sure that works for me. Anything is better than Mr Taylor. Let’s get in the car we have to go pick up John at soccer practice.”

After parking at the county park, a paint splattered Justin waited in the car while Peter & Josh ran over to the practice field to find John.

When they got home they all headed upstairs to see the finished bedrooms after a quick hello to Alice who was busy in the kitchen.
Peter had told Josh about their bedroom remodels and that Grandmom Jen and Tucker had been assembling furniture and getting their rooms arranged.

They stopped in John’s room first. The high gloss white furniture stood out against the black and grey walls. The bedside tables had their new red lamps and Jennifer had bought a new bedspread with a black & gray pattern on a white back ground. His new chair with its red cushion was in a corner by a window with a reading lamps behind it. His new desk had pens, pencils and pads of paper ready for use. Jennifer had learned that John was a Beckham fan during their Saturday outing and so there was a framed poster of the soccer star on one wall. Justin had gone through the boxes in the garage and John’s soccer trophies from grade school and middle school were displayed on his new shelves along with a few framed family photos.

John didn’t say anything he just looked around the room. When he first moved into this room it was bland and could have been a bedroom in any house; now it was personalized just for him.

He could not remember anyone taking all this effort to do anything for him. He also felt some pride since he had helped paint the furniture and chosen the wall colors and he thought it all looked awesome.

He came over to Grandmom Jen, pulled her into a tight embrace and whispered “Thank you.” Into her ear.

As he pulled away Jennifer softly patted his cheek and gave it a quick kiss. “Do you like it sweetheart? We can change anything you don’t like.”

John had to clear his throat before he could answer. “It’s perfect, I love it. Thanks you so much.”

He also thanked Tucker and went over to where Justin was standing a full watt sunshine smile on his face. John gave his uncle a quick hug. “Thanks for everything Uncle Justin.”

Peter yelled in excitement when they went into his room. His papasan chair was also positioned by a window with a reading lamp. His books were on his shelves along with some framed photos and some framed academic awards were hung above the shelves. His desk, like John’s, was fully equipped. There were new white spreads on the twin beds. Josh told him that his “sky ceiling was really cool”.

Peter’s first hug was for Justin, followed quickly by a hug & kiss for Grandmom Jen and a hug for Tucker. His delight in the bedroom decoration was obvious to everyone. Jennifer didn’t even bother to ask him if he wanted anything changed.

The boy decided they would go in the pool and the adults headed down to the patio. Justin stopped in the kitchen to mix a pitcher of his “adult pink lemonade” using limoncello, lemonade and cranberry juice.

The boys eventually persuaded Tucker to join them for a pool volleyball game. Justin and his mother observed from their lounge chairs and talked about the upcoming renovations to the Bloom Building. Justin was seated where he could see into the house and when he saw Brian arrive home he hurried inside.

He gave Brian a welcome home kiss. “Hey Mr Kinney. Welcome home always a high point in my day.”

Brian smiled. “Looks like we still have the pleasure of Mother Taylor’s presence.”

“Mom and Tucker are staying for dinner. Peter has a friend who is also staying for dinner.”

Brian raised his eyebrows. “How did that happen?”

“Josh lives down the road in that development on the right. We arrived at the community center right around the same time as Josh and his Mom. She and his Dad were tied up this afternoon so I said I could pick him up with Peter and bring him back here.”

“But they are coming to get him right?” “Yes Brian, his Dad will be here around 7 to get him.”

More raised eyebrows. “I’m going to go up and change.”

“Okay. I think dinner will be ready soon. Check out the boys’ rooms while you are upstairs. Mom and Tucker did an awesome job. Peter and John seemed really thrilled.”

Another quick kiss and Brian headed up the backstairs. Alice had gone to the pantry when Brian got home to give her employers some privacy. She came back into the kitchen and told Justin dinner would be ready in about half an hour.

Justin decided they would eat on the patio so the boys didn’t have to get changed before eating. Jennifer helped him set the table.

A barefoot Brian came outside in white shorts and a black tank. “Mother Taylor always a special thrill to find you here. Are you joining us at the closings tomorrow?”

Jennifer laughed. “Always a special pleasure to be here. I have some appointments tomorrow morning so I won’t be able to make the closings.”

Brian made the appropriate sad face. “We are having a celebration lunch at Le Mont. Can you join us for lunch?”

“That I can do! Justin already invited me. I’ll meet you there around 1:30.”

Brian got himself a bottle of water and sat in the lounger. Justin joined him on the chair leaning back against him. Brian held on to his water in his right hand and draped his left arm over Justin’s shoulder and gave him a kiss on the back of his neck. Brian was glad he wore underwear so his hard on was not too obvious.

Jennifer headed into the kitchen and came back out with a bowl of salad. “Dinner is ready.”

She got the swimmers out of the pool while Brian and Justin worked on getting the rest of the food on the table.

Dinner conversation consisted of a little bragging over the volley ball match which the team of Tucker and Josh had managed to win. Peter and Josh told everyone about their factory tour; John and Brian discussed some of the finer points of playing soccer; John and Peter expressed some more delight with their bedrooms and somehow tadpoles were mentioned and Josh said he had never seen a tadpole.

After dinner Jennifer and Tucker headed home and the three boys ran off to where Peter and John had seen tadpoles in the creek so Josh could get a look at them. Justin and Brian cleared the table. Alice had headed home to the cottage so Brian packaged the leftovers and put them away while Justin loaded the dishwasher.

Since the boy weren’t back yet Brian pulled Justin into the pantry. Justin wrapped his arms around Brian’s waist as they kissed.
Justin slide down Brian’s body and pulled down his lover’s shorts and briefs coming to rest on his knees. Brian entwined his fingers in Justin’s soft hair as he received an expert blowjob. It didn’t take Justin long to get Brian to cum. He stood back up and they kissed for a few more minutes. Brian tasting himself in Justin’s mouth which was a huge turn-on and things might have gone further except for the sound of the doorbell.

Justin left Brian to get his clothes back in order and went to answer the door. A man in hospital scrubs was standing on the front porch when Justin opened the door.

“Hi. I’m Bill Gardner, Josh’s Dad.

Justin extended his hand. “I’m Justin Taylor, Peter’s Uncle. I met your wife this morning.”

Justin led Bill through the house. A fully dressed Brian was in the kitchen and Justin introduced him to Bill Gardner.

Bill accepted an offered beer and Justin explained the boys should be back soon from their tadpole hunt.

The three men sat out on the patio to wait.

“Thanks for picking up Josh today that really helped Mary and I. Morning delivery is not a problem for us but the pick-ups are always tricky for us. We were wondering if you would be interested in us taking Peter in the morning and you picking up both boys in the afternoon. You could drop Peter off at our neighbor’s house on your way home.”

Brian looked over at Justin who smiled. “It would be no problem to pick up Josh with Peter. It might not always be me, sometimes our housekeeper or caretaker might pick the boys up.”

“That is no problem for us.”

“Okay that sound like a plan. The boys seemed to enjoy themselves this afternoon. It is not a big deal for Josh to come here on Tuesdays and Thursdays until you pick him up.”

“Are you sure that won’t be too much trouble.”

Brian answered. “I’m usually not here in the afternoons but there is plenty of stuff here to keep the boys amused. Our housekeeper and caretaker are an older couple, very experienced with kids so there is no problem making sure they don’t get into too much trouble.”

Justin agreed. “Our nephews haven’t lived with us for very long. Brian’s sister isn’t able to care for them right now so it’s great for Peter to have someone to hang out with.”

Brian looked at Bill with a serious expression on his face. “You know we are gay and yet you seem pretty willing to have your son spend time here. I’m curious why you don’t have more questions about us?”

Bill’s face flushed. “My brother is gay, he lives down in the Liberty Avenue area.I called him today after Mary said she was letting Josh come here. My brother doesn’t really know either of you but he knows your reputations, current and past. He said you were now models of respectability.”

Brian laughed. “How horrifying to be described that way! Justin this is all your fault! You have domesticated me.”

Justin smiled. “You are the successful business man; I am an artist I could still be bohemian if it wasn’t for being linked up with you.”

Brian turned his attention back to Bill. “So, looks like you work in a hospital; are you a doctor?”

“Not an MD. I have a Phd in Biology. I work in cancer research at Pitt. I used to be an accountant that is how Mary and I met. Josh had an older brother, Mike. When Josh was just over a year old and Mike was four and a half, Mike got a funny bump on his leg. Several doctor visits later it was diagnosed as a particular nasty form of bone cancer.

He had his leg amputated and suffered through a round of chemo but two months later they found out it had spread. Three months after that Mike was dead. Josh doesn’t even really remember him, he just remembers things we told him about Mike. I felt like I had to do something to honor Mike’s memory so I went back to college, got my Phd and now I fight what took my son away from us.”

Justin’s eyes were full of tears and he couldn’t say anything. Brian softly murmured. “Good for you!”

Three barefoot boys in swimsuits suddenly reappeared on the patio. Josh rushed up to give his father a hug and kiss hello.

“Dad I just saw some tadpoles!! Most of them had turned to frogs but some were still like fish. They have their tails with little legs growing on each side. It was kind of weird but really neat. John said next year we are going to take pictures of the tadpoles day by day so we can document the changes.”

“Wow Pal, that sounds neat. If you and Peter want to spend Tuesday and Thursday afternoons together his uncles and I agreed that Mom or I would take you guys to your meetings in the morning and Justin or someone else will pick you up in the afternoons and bring you back here.”

Both Peter and Josh excitedly agreed to the plan. John laughed at their enthusiasm. “Just what I need another little pest following me around.”

Josh and Peter choose to ignore him as they made elaborate plans on how they would spend their afternoons. They pointedly did not include John in any of their plans.

An amused Bill told his son to change as it was time to go home. Justin suggested Josh bring the swimsuit back next Tuesday and just gather his clothes and head home with his Dad.

The four members of the household continued to relax on the patio enjoying the warmth of the early summer night.

Brian looked over at Peter. “So Peter, you were there when this Bloom deal got signed. Are you going to come to the conclusion of the deal tomorrow?”

Peter was thrilled and immediately said he would love to go with them to the office the next morning. John preferred to go to his scheduled soccer practice.

The next morning Brian & Justin were up very early so they could have an enjoyable shower including sex before leaving the house.
When they came downstairs Peter was dressed and waiting. Brian had decided they should start the day with breakfast at the diner and told Ted to meet them there.

When Brian & Justin walked into the diner with Peter they were greeted by Debbie in the usual manner. A loud hello with a rib crushing hug and a kiss on the cheek which left behind an outline of her lips in bright red lipstick.

Peter stood behind his uncles wide eyed and just slightly afraid. Debbie spotted him and screeched a hello.

“You must be Peter. I’ve know your Uncle Brian since he was only a couple years older than you. I hope you are not as big an asshole as he was.”

Debbie followed that up with her triple threat – hug, kiss followed by roughly smearing the lipstick into his cheek with her thumb.

Brian chuckled. “Debbie, leave the kid alone you have him terrified. Peter, this is Debbie or as your grandmother would describe her “the Novotny woman who made Brian gay”.”

“I told you Peter. Your uncle has always been a big asshole but I still love him like he was my own. Hell he is as much my son as your cold hearted bitch of a grandmother’s son. Sorry if you actually like that bitch and that offends you.”

That made Peter laugh. “I’m not a huge fan of Grandmother so you haven’t offended me.”

Ted was already in a booth. Brian slid in next to him and Justin & Peter sat on the other side of the booth. Debbie came over and took their order.

Peter looked around the diner. “Is everyone who is in here gay?”

Brian craned his neck to look around at the other people having breakfast. “Not everyone. We are pretty sure both you and Debbie are straight and there may be a couple of people in here who are “bi” but most everyone is gay. We are on Liberty Avenue after all.”

Justin and Ted laughed, they could see quite a few of their fellow diners checking out their booth and trying to figure out who Peter was and why he was sitting next to Justin and Brian next to Ted.

Just to keep people guessing Brian leaned towards Ted and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. The startled look on Ted’s face made Justin and Peter roar with laughter. Brian noticed the whispered conversations going on all around him and was quite pleased with himself.

A few minutes later Debbie came back to the booth with their food. “So boys I hear from Jen that you are finalizing a big business deal this morning.”

Brian smirked at her. “Not our biggest ever but a sizable one. Peter was there when the contracts were signed so he came along to make sure the deal closes.”

“So where’s the other nephew. You got him locked up back at your mansion?”

Peter looked a little shocked, not completely sure how to take Debbie. “John has soccer practice today so he decided to go to that instead of coming with us.”

Brian smiled at Peter. “Deb I think you are frightening my nephew, he is not used to such over the top behavior. You working the lunch shift today?”

“Not that it is any of your fucking business Kinney but no. Just breakfast today; I have about a thousand things to do at home this afternoon.”

“Well I’m sure the world will continue to rotate if you don’t get all your chores done. You should come to lunch with us to celebrate.”

Debbie looked down at Brian with a shocked expression. “Why would you invite me to go to your celebration lunch?”

Brian shrugged. “Mother Taylor is tagging along with us; you should come too.”

Debbie swallowed hard to get the lump out of her throat. “I hear you are going to some fancy place up on Mount Washington. Not sure I would fit in there too well.”

“Just try not to scream out fuck too many times and I’m sure we will be okay. We’ll pick you up at your house around 1 o’clock. We’re meeting Mother Taylor around 1:30.”

Debbie nodded and headed back to the kitchen to pick up her next order. Once she was out of sight she dabbed at her eyes with a napkin. She couldn’t believe fucking Brian could still surprise her and touch her heart so easily.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 25

As Brian, Justin, Peter & Ted were finishing their breakfast Michael strolled into the diner. He came over to their booth. “Hi Brian.”

“Hi Mikey. This is my nephew Peter, one of Claire’s sons.”

Michael shook Peter’s extended hand and shook it. “Nice to meet you Peter. Hi Justin, I hear the deal on Bloom Gallery is getting signed today. Congrats.”

“Thanks Michael.”

Ted kept his head down studying his mostly empty plate. Michael looked over at him. “Hi Ted.”

Ted acknowledged the greetings with a very slight nod of his head.

Michael seemed surprised. “Hey Ted. Cat got your tongue?”

Ted remained silent but Brian intervened. “Mikey, I think you and Ted need to have a conversation but not here and not now.”

Michael ploughed ahead. “What’s bothering you Ted?”

Brian was firmer. “Mikey! Time and place, not this time and not this place but think about what you have said in the not too distant past that might have Ted upset with you. I’m sure it will all come back to you but for now just move along.”

Michael took a seat at the counter. Brian slide out of the booth, left money to pay the check and led the way out the door. The four of them walked the few blocks to the Kinnetik office.

Brian and Ted led the way, with Justin and Peter walking behind them. As usual Peter stayed close to Justin who put his arm over Peter’s shoulders.

“Uncle Justin, why did Debbie talk so mean to Uncle Brian?”

Justin chuckled. “Debbie loves Brian. When she calls him an asshole it is really almost like a term of endearment. And actually for a lot of the time that Debbie and Brian have known each other he was kind of an asshole.”

Peter looked at Justin not sure if he was kidding or not. Justin just smiled.

***************************************************************************

Once Sidney and his attorney arrived at Kinnetik they all went to a conference room where the title clerk was waiting. Peter sat next to Ted who explained the forms required to transfer ownership of a building. The title clerk showed him the title report for the Bloom building and told him that the title company would record the new deed, showing KT Corporation as the new owner of the building, at the Allegheny County Courthouse. After the real estate was conveyed the title clerk left.

Brian & Justin's attorney had already okayed the partnership agreement and Sidney’s attorney had also reviewed. The three men signed the agreement and also signed the agreement to maintain the name Bloom Gallery as long as Sidney maintained his portion of ownership.

Peter was used to escaping to books for anything interesting or exciting. He found these business meetings and transactions way more exciting than any book. Brian and Justin were pretty amused by Peter’s obvious interest.

Once all the forms were signed Cynthia came in with a bottle of champagne. Ted had a glass of ginger ale for the toast and Peter had a very small amount of champagne. Justin and Sidney each expressed their hopes for a successful, profitable partnership for many years to come.

After the toast Sidney’s attorney left and Ted & Cynthia went off to do some work. Brian, Justin and Sidney were still sipping on their champagne.

“Sidney, Brian and I are going to lunch at Le Mont. We’d loved for you to join us.”

Sidney smiled. “I appreciate the invitation but I am having lunch with my son and daughter. I am sharing some of the proceeds from selling the building. Hopefully that will make them a little happier about our deal.”

Justin nodded. “Good Luck with that! Were you able to clear the gallery schedule so we can start the remodel in July?”

“I need to talk to you about that. The young artist that I had scheduled for a show in August was not super pleased about the delay. Of course when I told him that if he agreed to delay the show until September the new majority partner of the gallery might display some of his art at the same time he got more pleased.”

Justin chuckled but Brian was not happy with that suggestion. “Sidney I think it is unfair to ask Justin to do that. Justin is working on those PPG Place murals and he also has to prepare for an August show in San Francisco. Since his bashing Justin has to be careful not to overwork his hand. There is no way he can be ready for another show in September!”

“Brian I don’t think Sidney is suggesting a full show from me. He just wants a few pieces to try and get more traffic through the new artist’s show. I don’t think that will be a problem.”

“Justin you never think it will be a problem until your hand is cramping. The doctors have warned us that if you overdo it you could face the possibility of having to have your hand in a brace and not use it at all for weeks or months.”

Sidney was fairly horrified by the argument he had started. “I didn’t promise anything. It was just a suggestions to try and make the postponement easier. I certainly don’t want to endanger Justin’s health.”

Justin frowned at Brian. “Sidney don’t be concerned. This is a discussion Brian and I have had before. Bottom line is that it is my hand and as an adult I can decide what I can and cannot do.”

“Already twice in the last month you have overdone things and had bad cramps in your hand. Right now we have a lot going on in our lives. Gus in coming to visit for the month of July, you are tied up with transporting John and Peter around and now you want to add another show. I am just asking you to be reasonable!”

“Brian it is not really another show I am agreeing to. We could even exhibit some existing pieces with a sold sticker on them. This office building alone could supply enough of my art for the gallery opening. I promise to be careful with my hand.”

“Fine! I’ll be in my office when you are ready to leave for lunch. Sidney, good doing business with you.”

Brian shook Sidney’s hand and left the room.

Sidney was very concerned. “Justin, it is really more than okay to say no to the September show. I certainly did not mean to create an issue for you and Brian. I am so sorry…”

Justin shook his head. “Sidney don’t worry about it. I can have some stuff to hang in September. Brian has a tendency to be just a tad overprotective. We have these discussions fairly often. Everything will be fine.”

Sidney left still apologizing about upsetting Brian.

Justin looked over at Peter still sitting at the conference table. “Buddy keep yourself occupied for a while. You can go down the cafeteria and get yourself a soda or snack. I have to talk to Uncle Brian.”


Peter nodded his head. “Remember not to be too harsh.”

Justin laughed. “I’ll keep that in mind. I’m not angry with Brian.”

Justin gave a quick knock on Brian’s office door before going into the room.

Brian looked up from some paperwork. “Sunshine, I know I was over protective. No need for you to tell me again that you are an adult who can make his own decisions.”

Justin walked over to the desk and pushed Brian’s chair back from the desk. He settled down onto Brian’s lap facing his partner. He put a hand on each side of Brian’s face and leaned in to kiss a very surprised Brian.

Justin pulled back and smiled at the surprised but happy look on Brian’s face. Brian’s eyes had that dark look with green flecks that Justin recognized as lust and he laughed a little.

“You’ll have to wait to satisfy your sex urges until later. We need to leave for lunch soon. You are overprotective but I do understand why you feel that way. The most important thing is that I love you more than anything or anyone in the world.”

Brian couldn’t keep the huge smile off his face. “Sunshine you know that I love you and I can’t help wanting you to take care of yourself because I never want to be without you.”

Justin didn’t say anything, he leaned forward resting his chin on Brian’s shoulders. Brian wrapped his arms around him and squeezed Justin against him.

Justin ran his fingers through Brian’s hair and sighed contentedly. He whispered in his partner’s ear.“I would be happy to stay like this forever. There is nowhere that I feel safer or move loved then in your arms.”

Brian didn’t say anything he just squeezed tighter almost like he was trying to merge the two of them together. Justin bent his head back slightly and moved in for another kiss. He giggled as he felt Brian’s response, a hardening dick tenting his pants.

“Get yourself under control stud! Time to leave for our lunch date.”

Brian shook his head. “Extremely unfair of you to get me in this condition when there is no time to finish things. You will be punished later.”

Justin had a big smile on his face. “I’ll hold you to that!”

****************************************************************************

They picked up Debbie, dressed conservatively in dark slacks and a print top, and headed for Mount Washington. Brian pulled up outside the restaurant. Once they were on the sidewalk Debbie asked again if her outfit was okay. Brian said it was a little late for her to change now but Justin told her she looked great.

Brian said he would wait for the valet while everyone else went inside in case Jennifer had already arrived.

The valet ran across the street. “Sorry to keep you waiting. My helper is on a break so I’m alone right now.”

Brian noticed Jennifer pull up behind his car. “No problem but my mother in law just pulled up so please take her keys along with mine.”

The valet smiled when he replied. “No Problem sir. I understand the importance of staying on the good side of a mother in law.”

Jennifer walked up to Brian and the valet handed them each a ticket. Jennifer gave Brian a quick kiss on the cheek. “Honey it was so sweet of you to invite Debbie. She is beyond thrilled! We have had several calls about what she should wear, she doesn’t want you to be ashamed of her.”

“She asked about her outfit about 50 times since we picked her up. She looks fine so congratulations on your wardrobe advice.”

Inside the restaurant Justin with Debbie & Peter were shown to a table by the windows. It was a clear sunny day so the view of the “golden triangle” of Pittsburgh was amazing.

Debbie stood wide eyed by the table. “Holy fu..fun Sunshine. This view is unbelievable.”

Justin laughed. He turned to the waiter who had just walked up to their table. “We would like a bottle of champagne and four glasses. I liked the St Michelle extra dry. The young man will have some Perrier and we’ll start with the stuffed mushrooms and the shrimp bruschetta. I would like the host menu. Thanks.”

“Debbie and Peter you should take the seats next to the window you are the first timers.”

Debbie was still pretty amazed by her surroundings. What about your mother Sunshine?”

“Mom has been here a few times Deb. With me and also years ago with Craig. Please sit down and enjoy the view. Did you want anything to drink besides champagne?”

“Is it okay to order a Diet Pepsi?”

“Deb you can order whatever you want. We want you to enjoy yourself, please relax.”

“I don’t want Brian to be ashamed of me.”

“Debbie Novotny! You know that Brian loves you and so do I. We could never be ashamed of you.”

“Shit Sunshine. If you make me cry and my mascara runs I am going to really pissed with you.”

Brian and Jennifer walked up to the table at that moment. Brian had a smirk on his face.

“Deb, Glad you are not intimidated by your surroundings.”

Jennifer smacked his arm. “Brian behave. Debbie you look lovely, your blouse is beautiful.”

They all sat down; Brian next to Debbie and Jennifer between Peter and Justin. When the waiter returned with their beverages and menus Justin ordered Debbie’s soda.

Debbie opened her menu. “Hey, there’s no prices on the menu.”

Brian looked at Justin who gave a slight nod of his head before he replied.

“Lunch is our treat so no one needs to know what the prices are.”

Jennifer smiled at her friend. “Debbie when you are taken to lunch by two handsome young men the polite thing to do is order what you think is the most expensive entrée.”

Everyone laughed as the waiter brought the appetizers Justin ordered along with Debbie’s diet soda. With a discreet finger point, behind his menu Justin, let the waiter know he should start with Jennifer when they ordered lunch.

Brian loved the stuffed mushrooms so he asked the waiter to bring an extra serving of that appetizer before they ordered lunch.

When the waiter returned he took Jennifer’s order first which gave Debbie an example to follow just as Justin planned. Since this was Peter’s second business lunch he felt very comfortable giving his order.

Peter’s next summer program outing was to Point State Park so he was very interested in seeing it from above. Jennifer pointed out a few landmarks to him which also interested Debbie. Despite living much of her life in Pittsburgh she had never been to Mt Washington before.

Most of the lunch conversation centered around the Bloom acquisitions and the renovation work that needed to be done. Debbie was amazed at the extent of the planned work.

Jennifer turned to Justin and Brian. “I expect to have the architect’s preliminary drawings next week. We’ll need to get together to go over them.”

Justin nodded. “Brian is going to Atlanta for business on Monday and Tuesday so it will have to be after that.”

“I’ll let you know when I have the plans and we’ll decide on a day and time to meet. Was Sidney able to reschedule that show so we can start work on the main floor on schedule?"

Brian answered. “Sidney got the artist to agree to the delay by committing Justin to an art show in September.”

Justin tried to kick Brian under the table but his partner had already moved his legs out from under the table. Justin had to content himself with a narrow eyed glare across the table. Brian simply shrugged his shoulders in response.

Jennifer looked at Justin. “Is that true? You are working on the murals and have to prepare for your San Francisco show. You shouldn’t overextend yourself, you know the trouble you have with your hand if you try to do too much!”

“Yes Mother, despite what you and Brian seem to think, I am well aware of the limitations of my hand. Sidney has just suggested I display a few paintings in an attempt to increase the attendance. It is not a full show, Brian seems unable or unwilling to understand the difference.”

Jennifer put her hand on Justin’s arm. “Sweetheart we worry about you because we love you.”

Justin put his hand on top of his mother’s and gave it a gently squeeze. “I know that Mom. I’m not really angry just annoyed that you and himself over there think I can’t take care of myself.”

Peter chuckled at Debbie’s concerned expression. “Don’t get upset Debbie, these mini dramas happen a lot. In the end Uncle Brian will let Uncle Justin do whatever he wants because he sooooooooooo adores him.”

Peter’s statement caused everyone to laugh just as the waiter brought the check.

Jennifer offered to take Debbie home so the boys could head straight to Washington but Brian needed to pick up some stuff for his trip at the Kinnetik office so they kept possession of Debbie.

Debbie made Brian get out of the car when they dropped her off. She grabbed him in a bear hug, kissed his cheek and thanked him for inviting her for lunch. She also told him he was lucky to have Sunshine in his life and he needed to treat him right.

Brian shook his head but gave her a kiss on the cheek and reminded her about their Fourth of July barbeque.

At the Kinnetik office Justin went with Peter to Ted’s office to make sure there were no paperwork issues. Brian went to his office to gather what he needed. 45 minutes later they were on their way home.

***************************************************************************

At home John was in the kitchen talking with Alice & Charlie when his uncles and brother got home. Justin thanked Charlie for chauffeuring John to and from soccer practice.

Charlie told them he had stayed and watched the practice. Much to John’s embarrassment Charlie said that John was one of the best players.

Brian immediately claimed that John’s skill was obviously genetic and that he took after him. He pretended great annoyance when everyone else was amused by his claims.

Since John was still in his soccer gear and the other three were wearing dress clothes, Justin suggested they should all go upstairs and change.

Once Brian closed the bedroom door Justin put his hands around the brunet’s neck and pulled him in for a kiss. Brian reached behind his back and locked the door.

As their tongues battled for dominance, Justin started to unbutton Brian’s shirt. He reached under Brian’s wife beater and tweaked his nipples. Brian nipped at Justin’s tongue.

Justin broke off the kiss and looked into Brian’s eyes. “I want you in me now!”

The two men moved towards the bed dropping their clothes as they went. Justin dropped his briefs beside the bed, reached into his night table drawer and grabbed a tube of lube. He squeezed some onto his hand and passed the tube to Brian. Justin reached between his legs smearing the lube on and inside his anus.

“Brian come on I need you now.”

Brian placed Justin’s legs on his shoulders and entered his Sunshine in one smooth motion. Justin gasped at the entry. “Fuck me hard. Fuck me good.”

Brian was happy to comply with his lover’s requests. He leaned down and thrust his tongue into Justin’s mouth while his dick was moving in and out of Justin’s ass. Brian tangled Justin’s hair between his fingers and softly pulled it.

Justin was using his lubed hand to stroke his hard cock until he spurted between their bodies. Brian came a few second later and lowered himself onto Justin’s body smearing the cum between them.

After kissing for a few more minutes Brian got up and went into their bathroom, returning with a couple baby wipes that they used to clean themselves up. Brian reclined back against some pillows and Justin leaned back against Brian’s chest with Brian’s arms around him.

Justin sighed with contentment. “You are the best Brian.”

Brian smirked. “I know but it was kind of impossible to stop you.”

“What can I say? Closing business deals makes me horny.”

They both chuckled as they enjoyed just being together. As usual it was Justin who broke the silence.

“I know that you can’t help feeling protective of me but it was no fair trying to get my mother involved.”

“Justin, I know you get upset when I get protective but for fuck’s sake it’s not like I don’t have cause to worry about you. I almost lost you twice and you still think of yourself as indestructible. Your behavior is going to turn my hair gray and that will seriously piss me off."

Justin chuckled. “I have accepted that thus protective thing is bigger than both of us. I think it is genetic in you and you really can’t control it. I even recognize the absurdity of me complaining about it. I spent years trying my best to get you to acknowledge how you feel about me so why should I now complain when you make it so clear to everyone that you so adore me!”

Brian tightened his arms around Justin. “Don’t be too sure of yourself you little twat.”

Justin turned enough to plant a quick kiss on Brian’s chin. “It’s you that I’m sure of Mr Kinney! I’m also sure that we both need to grab a quick shower.”

After their shower Brian and Justin went back downstairs to the kitchen. John and Peter were making seafood kabobs under Alice’s supervision. Charlie had the job of cutting up fresh vegetables to go in a pasta salad.

Alice gave them a raised eyebrow look which caused Justin to blush and Brian to smile back at her. Brian walked over and grabbed a couple pieces of broccoli off the cutting board Charlie was using.

“I’ll get the grill started. Looks like there is a ton of food here. Alice and Charlie you should stay and join us for supper.”

Brian headed outside. Justin made sure the Simpsons agreed to stay before he went out to set one of the table on the patio for supper.

More first time food for John & Peter, along with seafood kabobs Brian grilled some unhusked corn.

Charlie ate his corn without butter or seasoning. You are all ruining the real taste of the corn.”

Alice having heard this for years, shook her head. “Condiments enhance the flavor of food. They do not “ruin” it. We’ve had this argument since our honeymoon.”

Justin, whose face was smeared with butter, laughed. “Sorry Charlie. The best thing about corn on the cob is the butter.”

John tried a few bites of unbuttered corn before he smeared it with butter. Brian and Peter just rolled their ears of corn in the butter ignoring Charlie’s advice.

The “ton of food” disappeared quickly. Brian, Alice and Charlie watched in amazement as Justin, John and Peter consumed vast amounts of kabobs, corn and pasta salad.

Brian stared at Justin who shrugged his shoulders. “What? Why are you looking at me like that?”

“Justin how can you consume that much food at one sitting?”

“Closing business deals gives me an appetite. Get over it.”

Peter and John burst out laughing at the exasperated look on Brian’s face.

Alice had John & Peter clear the table before serving dessert, halved cantaloupes with vanilla ice cream in the middle. Brian as usual stole as much as he could from Justin’s dessert but refused a serving for himself.

Charlie, John & Brian discussed soccer practice and how John was doing. Brian promised to spend some time practicing with John the next day.

Alice and Justin talked about the logistics for the big 4th of July party that was 10 days away. Emmett and his staff were handling most of the food but there were deliveries of tables and chairs and getting the tent set up. Lindsay and Melanie with Gus & JR were scheduled to arrive next Friday and stay for a week. Gus was going to spend the rest of July with his Dad & his Papa.

Peter waited for a pause in the conversation before interrupting. “Uncle Justin, Josh and I were emailing earlier. He and his parents are going on a picnic tomorrow and then going to play miniature golf. They asked me to go with them. Can I go?”

“Sure I just have to call Josh’s Mom to be sure that it is okay for you to go.”

“Uncle Justin! Josh said I was invited.”

“I know buddy but I was your age once and I remember Daphne and I formulating all sorts of plans that our parents knew nothing about.”

Brian looked across the table with a smile. “And that wasn’t that long ago!”

Justin responded by sticking his tongue out. “Very mature Sunshine and a really good example for my nephews.”

Justin ignored him as he found Mary Gardner’s number on his cell and gave her a call. Turned out that Josh really did have the okay to invite Peter along. They would pick him up around 11 o’clock and drop him back home around dinner time.

Alice and Charlie headed off to the cottage. Brian went to the study to catch up on his emails. John and Peter headed to the media room for video games and Justin headed to the studio.

A few hours later everyone was in bed for the night.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 26

It was pretty typical Saturday morning at the Taylor-Kinney home. Justin slept in while Brian headed downstairs to make coffee. He enjoyed his first cup, black with 4 sugars, with some dry rye toast and a glass of guava juice.

When he was done with his breakfast Brian prepared his second cup of coffee, fixed a mug of coffee for Justin, cream and no sugar, and headed back to the bedroom.

Brian put Justin’s coffee on the night table and gave him a kiss on the top of his head. “Coffee delivery Sunshine. Rise and Shine.”

Justin pulled the sheet off his face and sat up. He grabbed the coffee and took a big sip. “Thanks Brian, you are the best.”

“I know that, tell me something I don’t know.”

“You can be very annoying first thing in the morning.”

Brian just laughed.

Once they finished their coffee, Brian and Justin took a long, leisurely shower that included mutual blow jobs. Once they were dressed they headed down to the kitchen. John and Peter were just finishing breakfast. Good mornings were exchanged.

John stood up to take his plate to the dishwasher. “You guys want some scrambled eggs”

Justin was mildly shocked when Brian replied. “That sounds good Kiddo.”

Justin looked at Brian who just shrugged. Peter got up from the table started to make toast and pour juice for his uncles. Brian leaned into Justin. “It makes the kids happy to make us breakfast. I guess a few egg yolks won’t kill me.”

Justin smiled and gave Brian’s thigh a squeeze. Justin was a little surprised and extremely pleased that Brian was allowing his nephews to make them a breakfast that Brian would ordinarily not have eaten.

Brian and Justin were eating their breakfast when Alice came through the patio doors. “Good morning. I baked some cookies for Peter to take on his picnic.”

Peter hurried over to say thank you and give her a hug. John offered to cook her some breakfast but Alice said she was not as late a sleeper as some people, giving Brian & Justin a quick look, and had already had her breakfast. She told Peter to have fun on the picnic and departed.

John looked over at Brian. “Are you really going to play some soccer with me today Uncle Brian?”

“Sure Kiddo. I said that I would. You have to remember that I’m a little rusty. It’s been a few years since I’ve even touched a soccer ball. Except to kick it around a little with Gus.”

John smiled. “There a guy from soccer practice that invited me over to his house today. I told him you were going to give me some pointers and asked if he wanted to come over here. He said his Dad could drop him off if we could take him home.”

The look of horror on Brian’s face made Justin laugh. “Kiddo I just told you how rusty I am. I don’t want this kid thinking I am some kind of soccer guru.”

“He doesn’t think that. I just thought he could come over here and hang out. We could kick the ball around for a while and then maybe go in the pool.”

Brian shook his head. “You can have your friend over but don’t complain to me if my lack of soccer skills embarrasses you.”

John headed upstairs to call his friend and a few minutes later the house phone rang. Justin answered and it was Greg O’Brien, his son Patrick was John’s soccer friend. Justin did his best to assure Greg that he and Brian were trustworthy. He guessed it worked because Greg said he would drop his son off around 1 PM.

John was delighted and Brian was still a little apprehensive about 2 teenagers evaluating his soccer playing. Once they were alone Justin gave him a kiss and told him it would all be OK.

Brian smirked and said “Doubtful” which made Justin laugh.

The Gardners picked up Peter who had spent the morning swinging between manic happiness and apprehension about how to act on a picnic. Peter told Justin he had never been on a picnic. Justin told him that he had been on lots of picnics and there were no set requirements and that Peter should relax and he would have lots of fun.

When Justin went back to the kitchen Brian was just ending a call on his cell with an annoyed look on his face.

“You don’t look so happy. Who was on the phone?”

“Fucking Lindsay! She and her bitch wife are concerned about Gus visiting while the nephews are living here. She said she wanted to be sure Gus still had his room here. I can’t fucking believe her. I told Gus his room was waiting for him when I talked to him. He was really excited about staying here with us.”

Justin put his arm around his partner. “You know, you have the worst luck with the women in your life. If Lindsay and Melanie try to interfere with Gus’s visit I will personally kill them and I know my mother will help me. Mother Taylor often raves about how good you are to “those girls” and how badly they treat you.”

Brian chuckled. “Nice to know at least one female is on my side.”

“I know it’s hard but don’t let them get to you. I’m sure it will all work out once they get here and have a chance to meet John and Peter.”

Brian shook his head. “I hope so Sunshine. By the way, Lindsay also told me they are getting here on Friday instead of Sunday. I guess they want some extra time to check us out.”

“Brian don’t forget they can’t get along without the money you send them. Debbie is always saying how tight money is with them, as well as saying Michael wishes he had extra money to send them. I know you don’t want to hurt Gus by not giving them money but if they try to keep him from visiting, you have to let them know it is not acceptable.”

“I didn’t know pit bulls were blonde?”

Justin swatted Brian’s arm and told him he was going upstairs to change into painting clothes.

The doorbell rang as Justin came downstairs in his paint covered clothes. He opened the door and found Patrick O’Brien standing there with his father.

Greg extended his hand which Justin shook. “Hi I’m Greg O’Brien, Patrick’s Dad. I think we’re a little early, sorry about that. This is quite some house.”

“I’m Justin Taylor, John’s Uncle.” John came into the entrance hall as Patrick came into the house.

“My wife and I are taking our younger son out for the day. What time do you think you will be bringing Patrick home, we don’t want to miss you?”

“Saturday is usually a cookout day for us. We are going to grill some pork chops for dinner and we have plenty so it would be great for Patrick to stay and eat with us and we’ll bring him home around 7.”

Greg smiled. “Are you sure you have enough? You don’t know how much Patrick can eat.”

“I have some idea from watching John and his brother chow down.”

“Okay then we’ll expect Patrick around 7. Thanks. Behave yourself Patrick.”

John and Patrick headed outside, after giving Brian a little more encouragement Justin went upstairs to his studio.

It was a beautiful summer day with little humidity and a gentle breeze blowing so Justin had all the studio windows open.
He could hear Brian and the boys talking and laughing. Justin loved hearing Brian laughing and enjoying himself. Brian was giving John & Patrick some soccer tips as they played. Brian’s calm, relaxed instructions reminded Justin of Brian explaining gay sex to a very nervous, very excited, very thrilled 17 year old twink. Justin thought about that fabulous night he waited under the street light, outside Babylon, and how he loved Brian at first sight.

Justin smiled as he painted. He was inspired by the beautiful day, and the happy noise from the fun Brian and the boys were having and his memories of meeting Brian. When he stepped back from the canvas Justin was delighted by the painting. It seemed to him to have the happiness he was feeling but also the motion of the soccer game and the beauty of the day.

Justin added a few touches but when he felt the twinge in his hand he stepped back and decided the painting was perfect. He headed downstairs to find Brian resting on a lounger and the boys enjoying the pool.

Justin sat in a chair next to Brian. “Sounded like the soccer playing went well.”

Brian answered with a big smile on his face. “I was surprised at how much fun we had. A lot of stuff really came back to me. How did the painting go?”

“It went great! I could hear you guys laughing and having fun and it was inspiring. When you were explaining things to John and Patrick it reminded me of the night we met. You were so patient with them like you were with me that night.”

Brian smiled. “It wasn’t exactly the same kind of instruction Sunshine.”

“Well I am really pleased with the painting and you’ll be happy to know I stopped at the first little twinge in my hand.”

Brian took Justin’s hand and started to massage it which brought a full watt sunshine smile to the blonde’s face. “I do love you Mr Kinney.”

Brian chuckled “And I soooooooo adore you Sunshine.”

Justin knew that Brian wanted him to think he was joking but Justin wasn’t so sure Brian didn’t actually mean what he was saying.

Justin and Brian were still talking together when John and Patrick got out of the pool. “Can we have a snack and something to drink?”

Brian nodded. “Have whatever you want in the kitchen but don’t spoil your appetite for dinner.”

Brian decided he wanted to have a look at Justin’s latest art work so they went inside. John and Patrick were each having a slice of cake and a glass of milk. John looked up at his uncles. “What’s up?”

“Uncle Justin was painting while we were kicking around the soccer ball and I’m going to take a look at his latest creation.”

“Can Patrick and I come look at it?”

Justin smiled. “You guys and Uncle Brian were my inspiration so come on and take a look if you want.”

They all went up the back stairs to the studio. Brian stood with his hands on Justin’s shoulders to admire the painting. John and Patrick stood to the side observing it.

Patrick turned to Justin. “Did we really inspire you to paint this?”

Justin smiled. “Yes, you guys having fun playing soccer and the beautiful weather today.”

Patrick looked at the bright soft pastel colors that covered the canvas. “I can see the blue sky and the lawn and there are three figures in there that almost look like they are moving. Are those figures us?”

“You have a good eye. I’m flattered that you can see all that. I must have done a good job capturing this afternoon.”

Patrick blushed. “Well you really told us what to look for and once you did that I could see everything that you talked about. That is pretty cool!”

John was pleased that his new friend seemed to be enjoying his visit. When he looked at the painting he could also see the things that Uncle Justin and Patrick were talking about. Art was not something he had much exposure to but it was pretty interesting to be the inspiration for a painting.

When a very happy Peter arrived back home, Brian was starting the grill, John & Patrick were playing pool in the basement game room and Justin was preparing a salad for dinner. Peter helped cut up the salad fixings while telling Justin all about his afternoon and how much fun he had.

After a dinner of grilled pork chops & asparagus along with the salad, everyone loaded into Justin’s SUV to take Patrick home after a stop for dessert at Dairy Queen. On the ride home from the O’Brien home Brian and Justin were amused by the nephews competing for which one had the most afternoon fun.

**********************************************************************************

Sunday at the Taylor-Kinney home was a pretty quiet day. Peter & John decided it was a good day for a hike through the woods beyond the creek. Justin worked on the second PPG mural and Brian checked emails and prepared for his business trip the next day. He had planned visits to a couple existing customers in the Atlanta area on Monday afternoon as well as the presentation for a new prospect on Tuesday morning. He would be back home on Tuesday night.

After a dinner of Thai takeout, Brian and Justin retired to their room for some “quality time” together. John & Peter were pretty sure that meant their uncles were having sex before being apart for two days. They were mildly creeped out by those thoughts and completely correct.

***********************************************************************************

Brian was up at the crack of dawn on Monday morning. He showered and dressed before lifting the pillow off Justin’s head. He leaned down and gave Justin a quick kiss. “I’ll miss you Sunshine.”

Justin woke up sufficiently to give Brian a halfhearted smile and placed one hand in Brian’s cheek. “I will really miss you studman. Make lots of money, be safe and come home to me as soon as you can.”

“I’ll do my best.” With a parting smack on Justin’s ass, Brian left the bedroom. His suitcase was sitting by the front door and a town car was idling in the driveway.

Brian would have breakfast in the airline club room at the airport before boarding his flight to Atlanta.

A couple of hours later Justin made it downstairs for breakfast. Alice had just finished making pancakes for John & Peter. She poured Justin a mug of coffee while he toasted a bagel.

Justin let her know that Lindsay, Melanie and the 2 kids would be arriving on Friday. He decided he would make Jambalaya for Friday dinner so Alice didn’t need to plan anything.

Justin was just considering heading to the studio when his cell phone rang. He checked the display before answering. “Brian, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing major Sunshine. One of the account execs needs a Kinnetik contract signed. We are on a quick schedule to get some ads completed. He thought I would be in the office today. Could you go into the office to sign a contract?”

“Sure, no problem. Are we sure the contract is okay?”

“Cynthia and Ted have both reviewed it and said it is just our standard contract. So no worries.”

“I’ll get dressed and head up to the city. I miss you.”

“Later.” “Later.”

Justin shaved, showered and although he could not bring himself to wear a tie he did wear a sports coat. When he walked into the Kinnetik lobby the receptionist was surprised to see him. “Justin! Brian isn’t in the office today.”

Justin chuckled. “Yes I know. There’s a contract that needs to be signed today.”

When a still chuckling Justin got to Brian’s office he was pleased that Carole was expecting him. He told her about the receptionist’s reaction to seeing him. Carole was all apologies but Justin assured her that he thought the whole situation was funny.

Justin swiped his Kinnetik ID to unlock Brian’s office door and went inside. He buzzed Cynthia to let her know he was in the office. A few minutes later Cynthia appeared with the contract that needed to be signed. Justin looked through it quickly and then signed both copies.

Cynthia took the contracts from Justin. “Thanks for coming in to sign these. If you have some time, one of our account execs is meeting with a client and he seems to think a visit from the famous Justin Taylor could help seal the deal.”

Justin smiled. “Lead the way.”

Justin went in the conference room where the account exec and new prospect were meeting. The prospect told Justin that his wife was a huge fan of his art work and had been to several of his shows, both here in Pittsburgh and in New York.

The prospect was happy with Kinnetik’s presentation but he felt a loyalty to current ad agency and wanted to give them a chance to present to him.

Justin nodded. “At Kinnetik we certainly understand and appreciate loyalty. Personally I like to know what my “huge fans” look like so I can recognize if I meet them. Do you have a recent photo of your wife?”

Somewhat confused by the request the prospect did take a snapshot out of his wallet. “This was taken two months ago on our cruise through the Panama Canal.”

Justin examined the photo and smiled. “I’m thinking you are more loyal to your wife then your current ad agency. If you truly think Kinnetik’s presentation meets your advertising needs and you are willing to sign a two year contract today. I will do a quick pencil sketch of you wife and sign it along with your contract.”

“Are you serious?”

“Yes Sir. As long as you believe our ad campaign will increase your business, I am serious.”

After a few moments pause the prospect answered. “Okay, I’ll sign.”

Justin told the account exec to get Cynthia to draw up a two year contract while he went to the art department to get a pad and some pencils.

Justin returned to the conference room, propped up the photo and started to draw. The prospect watched fascinated to see his wife’s image come to life on the pad of paper. The account exec and Cynthia came back in the conference room. While Cynthia went over the contract, Justin finished his sketch.

After the new customer signed the contracts, Justin signed both copies of the contract and his pencil sketch.

Once the very happy new customer left, Cynthia burst out laughing. “I cannot believe you did that! Brian will go crazy when he hears this.”

Justin smiled. “I don’t think Brian will be that surprised. I have been around him so long it was inevitable that some of his negotiations skills would rub off on me.”

The account exec was very pleased with the signed contract and kept thanking Justin over and over until Cynthia told him to take the contract to Ted’s office.

Before heading home Justin stopped by the Gallery to talk with Sidney. He stressed again that he wanted Sidney to do the searching for a new manager and just let Justin have a chance to meet them before the final decision was made. Justin also let Sidney know that it was no problem for Justin to have some art work to display with the new artist’s show in September.

After the meeting with Sidney, Justin headed home.

Shortly after Justin got home his cell phone rang. It was a laughing excited Brian, who had heard the story of Justin getting the contract signed from Cynthia. Justin laughed along with him but he could tell how proud his partner was. They talked about Brian’s day in Atlanta and about how they would miss each other.

Brian ended the call actually saying. “Sunshine, I am really proud of you and I really love you a lot.”

As soon as he finished, before Justin could reply, Brian ended the call.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 27

Justin had a restless night’s sleep. He hated that he had gotten to the point where he found it hard to sleep unless Brian was in bed beside him. Unusual for Justin he was the first person downstairs, even Alice had not arrived. He made a pot of coffee and took his first cup out on the patio.

Once he was sufficiently caffeinated Justin went back in the kitchen and made blueberry pancakes. Alice was surprised when she arrived from the cottage and the nephews were delighted with the surprise breakfast.

Once Peter left with Mary Gardner and Josh for his Point State Park lecture, Justin headed for the studio to paint. In contrast to his light and happy canvas from Saturday, today he worked on a lonely, frustrated painting. Not nearly as much fun but cathartic.

Justin was careful of his time since he did not want to show up to pick up Peter and Josh in paint splattered clothes again. He headed over to the bedroom to wash up and change before heading downstairs. He had time for a quick lunch before heading out.

As he came down the stairs, the front doorbell rang. Justin opened the front door and was shocked to see Claire and Joan Kinney standing on the front porch. “Claire, Mrs Kinney what in the world are you doing here?”

“We came to see my sons. I know you are trying to keep them away from me.”

“They haven’t expressed any interest in seeing you. Those crazy kids would rather hang out with friends and have fun instead of another excruciating visit at chez Kinney.”

Joan Kinney put a hand on her daughter’s arm to quiet her. “Well we are here now and we would like to see my grandsons.”

“Peter isn’t even here but come in and I’ll see where John is.”

Justin led them into the Parlor. “Make yourselves comfortable, I’ll be back in a minute.”

He headed back to the kitchen where John was having lunch. “John! Your mother and grandmother are here and they want to visit with you. I told them Peter isn’t here.”

John looked puzzled. “Mother knew Peter wouldn’t be here. She has been calling us and crying about missing us. Peter always falls for her tears. I warned him not to tell her where his summer program was held and to only talk about trips that were over not what was coming up.”

“If they knew Peter would not be home, why would they come here today?”

Alice spoke up. “If they know you go and pick Peter up after the lecture they could be planning on following you to see where they are held.”

John nodded. “I’ll bet that is what they are planning. That sounds exactly like something Mother would dream up.”

Justin thought for a couple minutes. “Okay so here’s what we are going to do. Alice will you ask Charlie go pick Peter and Josh up. I don’t want Peter embarrassed in front of Josh, so Charlie should take them over to the farm and keep them occupied until we get rid of Joan and Claire. We need to keep them here until Charlie has time to get to the community center and back.”

Alice took some soup out of the freezer and said Charlie could use dropping off the soup as an excuse to go to the farm. She called the farm and let them know what was going on while John and Justin headed to the Parlor.

Joan was standing in front of the fireplace examining the painting that hung over the mantle. “Why do you have a painting of Brian as a boy hanging here?”

Justin smiled. “That’s a portrait I painted of Gus, Brian’s son.”

“He looks just like Brian did at that age.”

“Gus is adorable. I’ve known him since the night he was born so even though we have no blood ties I really love the little guy. I would do anything to keep him from being hurt.”

Joan’s face flushed, Justin wasn’t sure if it was from anger or embarrassment. She glared at Justin who met her stare until she turned away to go and sit with Claire on one of the sofas.

John moved over near Claire. “Why are you here Mother? You knew Peter wouldn’t be home. I heard him tell you that he went to his summer activity on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

Claire looked uncomfortable but didn’t say anything. Joan spoke up. “We came here because it has been over a week since your mother saw you. That is not acceptable.”

Justin sat in a chair and looked over at Joan. “Mrs Kinney, you do not decide what is or is not acceptable in this house. There is no obligation for John & Peter to visit their mother. Claire has done nothing to try and make amends to her sons for how badly she has treated them.”

Alice came into the room with a tray that held 4 glasses of iced tea and a plate of homemade cookies. She placed the tray on a table in front of the two women before passing a glass to Justin.

Claire was surprised. “I thought you would be leaving to pick up Peter soon. Do you have time for refreshments?”

Justin smiled at John who nodded. “Charlie, our caretaker, has gone to pick up Peter and his friend Josh. He is going to take them over to his Family’s farm to drop some things off there.”

Joan and Claire stood up quickly. “We’d better be going, Mother wants to avoid rush hour.”

Alice glared at the two women. “You might as well sit down. I closed the driveway gates after Charlie left so there is no way you can leave until they are opened again.”

John laughed at the expression on his mother’s face.

Joan was outraged. “You send the caretaker to pick up Peter, you allow him to go off on a picnic with virtual strangers on Saturday. Your mother takes them out for the day. I intend to let those social workers know that you are not supervising the boys. You are allowing them to go off with other people but their own mother has to wait for them to decide to visit her.”

Justin sipped his iced tea. “You should try some cookies. They are homemade and are really delicious. We have no restrictions that say we have to be with John and Peter 24 hours a day. They can spend time with other responsible adults. The only visits that must be supervised are those with Claire.”

“Why should their Mother have restrictions on visits when other people do not?”

“Because their Mother is the adult who caused them harm! She is the adult who moved her sons in with a known drug abuser. She is the adult who didn’t make sure there was food for her sons to eat or if they had money to buy basic school supplies. Claire has shown that she has poor parenting skills and until she demonstrates she can be trusted, her visits will remain supervised.”

John stood in front of his mother. “Do you understand that you coming here to try and spy on Peter and I guess stalk him does not make us anxious to spend time with you?”

Joan raised her arm but Alice grabbed her arm. “You need to consider your actions lady! If you hit this boy I will knock you on your butt. I do not ordinarily approve of settling problems with physical violence but in your case I will make an exception. It certainly isn’t hard to see where Claire learned her parenting skills.”

Justin stood up. “Mrs Kinney and Claire, you both need to sit down. We are not going to let you leave for a few more minutes. We want to be sure you do not have the opportunity to embarrass Peter in front of his new friend. If either of you show up univited at John or Peter’s summer programs we will get a restraining order.”

Joan and Claire sat down. Alice left the room. Justin leaned back in his chair and sipped his iced tea. John took a couple cookies off the plate and a glass of iced tea and sat on a chair near Justin.

Joan looked over at Justin. “I intend to report to the authorities that you kept us trapped here.”

“I’m not sure how responsive the Washington County Sheriff’s Department will be to a call from you. They got quite a bit of grief over how they responded to your last call. Alice and Charlie Simpson have lived in the county all their lives. They made quite a stink about how the sheriff’s department didn’t follow procedures with your call. You have no proof that you are trapped here. Even if you called them right now it just take a flick of a switch to open the gates. I suggest you just relax and enjoy some of Alice’s delicious cookies.”

Joan sat and glared at Justin. Claire took a glass of iced tea from the table in front of her and ate a cookie. She smiled at John sitting across the room from her and shrugged her shoulders.

John turned to Justin. “Would it be okay to show Mother my bedroom?”

“No problem if that is what you want to do.”

Claire stood up and said she would love to see John’s bedroom. Joan got up as well. John led the way to the stairs with his mother & grandmother following and Justin bringing up the rear.

Claire had never been past the parlor before and looked around with an amazed expression on her face. Joan keep her eyes straight ahead. When they got to the second floor hall John started his tour.

“The double doors are the Uncles’ bedroom and next to that is a storage closet. Next is Gus’s bedroom and two guest rooms. Our rooms are down the hall.”

Outside his bedroom John pointed to the door to the back stairs. “That door leads to a laundry room and the back stairs. Up on the third floor are two bedrooms that Uncle Brian calls the “sorority house”. Uncle Justin’s sister and her friends use those room when they visit from Penn State during the school year. Down a few steps is Uncle Justin’s studio. The stairs lead down to the kitchen, pretty convenient for midnight snacks.”

John opened the door to his bedroom. Claire looked around the room amazed.

“John, the room is so neat and clean. Unusual color choices though for a bedroom.”

John smiled. “Uncle Brian is a complete neat freak so no leaving stuff cluttering the room when he’s around. The cleaners were here yesterday, they come twice a week. I asked for black walls but Uncle Justin got me to compromise on just one black wall. Uncle Brian and I painted the bed, night tables and dresser. Grandmom Jen and her boyfriend assembled the desk and bookcase. She also ordered the red lamps, bought the chair I asked for and picked out the bedspread and the throw rugs.”

Joan looked around the room. “Why would she spend all that money on you?”

Justin laughed. “My mother made lots of decorating choices with John but Brian and I picked up the tab. She was just the idea person!”

John also laughed. “Peter and I think Uncle Brian is a little afraid of Grandmom Jen. He didn’t even ask her what anything cost he just handed over his credit card.”

Claire and Joan looked at each other amazed that this woman, a virtual stranger, took some much time and effort helping John decorate his room.

John continued the tour. “Want to see Peter’s room, we can go through the bathroom.”

When they entered Peter’s room Claire looked up at the ceiling. “Wow the ceiling is amazing.”

John smiled. “That was Peter’s request. He said he always wanted a bedroom ceiling that looked like the sky. The painters’ did the blue background and Uncle Justin added the clouds.”

“It’s a good job. Really it looks like it was done professionally.”

John and Justin both chuckled. “Mother! It was done professionally. Uncle Justin is an artist.”

Claire looked confused. “I meant it looks like a real artist painted those clouds.”

“Mother do you realize how dumb that sounds? Uncle Justin gets paid for his artwork. He is a REAL artist.”

Joan shook her head. “I would never allow a teenage son of mine to speak to me that way. It’s disgraceful.”

Justin walked over to stand beside John. “No one here cares what you think Mrs Kinney.”

Claire ignored them all and just continued to look around the rooms, amazed. “Peter’s school awards are framed and hanging on the wall.”

“Yes Mother, you never paid much attention to them but Uncle Justin had them framed and hung in here as a surprise for Peter.”

Claire had tears in her eyes but didn’t say anything. She knew what her son said was true even if she couldn’t bring herself to admit it.

Justin turned towards the door. “I think it is time you left. The next time you come here unannounced you will not be allowed inside. If I find you are stalking the boys we will get a restraining order. We will not force John and Peter to visit you but will try and accommodate any request they make to see you.”

When they returned to the Parlor, Alice was waiting there to tell then the gates were open. She went over to Joan and spoke to her softly. “I just want to let you know that I will do everything in my power to make sure that you cannot hurt any of my boys ever again. Brian and Justin are two of the finest men I know. You would be very foolish to underestimate me.”

She turned to Claire. “I hope you can start to get your life together. John and Peter deserve a decent mother in their lives.”

Claire started towards John to kiss him good bye but he stood close to Justin with a grim expression on his face. “Good bye mother.”

Claire and Joan went out the door which Alice closed firmly behind them. “I’ll call the farm and tell Charlie they can head home whenever they want.”

*****************************************************************************

Justin told John that he did not want Brian upset the moment he got home so they would not say anything about Joan & Claire’s visit. John could tell Peter that night or the next morning and Justin would talk to Brian about it when they were alone.

Brian was in a great mood when he got home. His trip to Atlanta had gone well and resulted in an important new client for Kinnetik. He was delighted that Justin was instrumental in getting a new two year Kinnetik contract signed. His nephews were happy to see him and told him that they missed him. Justin greeted him with a huge sunshine smile and kiss.

Brian’s great mood continued when he and Justin retired to the bedroom for a session of lovemaking. They were lying entwined together in their bed when Justin told his lover about Joan & Claire’s visit.

Good bye great mood, Hello to a livid Brian ready to get dressed and drive to his mother’s house. Justin eventually got him quieted down although Brian was annoyed with the blonde for letting the two women in the house.

Since neither of them had slept much the night before, eventually they fell asleep. Brian got up the next morning when his alarm went off and headed to the bathroom to shave, shower and get dressed.

When Brian came back into the bedroom he was surprised to see that Justin was gone. He went downstairs to the kitchen not completely surprised to smell the already brewed coffee.

“Good morning Sunshine.” “Good morning Brian. Here’s your coffee, black with four sugars just the way you like it.”

Brian looked at Justin through narrowed eyes. “You’re up early this morning Sunshine. Why is that?”

“I missed you and just wanted to spend some extra time with you this morning.” “Uh huh!”

“Sit down and enjoy your coffee and here’s your guava juice. One egg white omelet coming right up.”

Brian sat at the counter and observed a smiling Justin simultaneously cooking his egg white omelet and scrambled eggs in another pan.
When the eggs were done Justin brought both plates over to the counter and sat beside his partner.


After a few moments of silent eating Justin turned to Brian. “The omelet taste okay?”

“It’s delicious Justin.” “My mom always says the secret ingredient is love.”

“I can believe that is Mother Taylor’s secret ingredient but I am thinking your extra secret ingredient is bullshit.”

Justin continued to smile. “Brian Kinney don’t you think that I love you?”

“I know you love me Justin but I also know there is more to this breakfast than missing me. So just tell me what it is you want from me.”

Justin’s smile never faltered. “I want you to promise you won’t contact your mother or Claire.”

“I told you last night that I wasn’t going to go to my mother’s house.”

Justin nodded. “Remember who you are talking to Mr Kinney. I know that when you say something you always reserve the right to change your mind later and expect no consequences from your actions. I want a promise because I also know you never break your promises.”

Brian sighed. “How is it that I let you know me so well? Alright Sunshine I promise I will not contact my mother or sister.”

Justin leaned over and gave Brian a kiss. “Brian you can never fool me, you are as transparent as water.“

Brian frowned but leaned over and kissed Justin. “That is a horrifying thing to say.”

Both men laughed and continued to eat their breakfast. Shortly after Brian left for work, while Justin had a second cup of coffee Alice came in through the patio door.

“Justin you are up and about early this morning.”

“I had to discuss something with Brian before he left for the office.” Alice nodded.

**************************************************************************

Ted was waiting in Brian’s office with his financial reports.

Brian sat at his desk and picked up the packet that Ted had prepared. “So Theodore what’s the bad news?”

“Not really bad news but our cash flow is going to be down for at least a few months. We can’t expect much cash out of Tay-Kin until after Justin’s August show. Even the PPG mural income will have to go to help pay down the debt for the Bloom acquisition. Same thing for KT Properties, it is going to be awhile before we take any cash out. The remodels of the Bloom Building and the Oakland Duplex are going to cut into profits for the short term.”

Brian looked at the reports as Ted talked. “And the good news is, what?”

“I don’t have Kinnetik final numbers for June or second quarter but we will exceed last year. Won’t be our best second quarter but Kinnetik remains extremely profitable. Summer is usually pretty slow at Babylon but cash flow there should remain good. No need for you to sell the Corvette this month.”

Brian laughed. “Do we need to cut back on personal expenditures?”

Ted smiled. “Not in any big way. You don’t have to call off the July 4th barbeque but I don’t suggest you do any major redecoration or major purchases at least until autumn.”

“Have you seen the nephew expenses?”

“Yup, not a big deal. I have figured increased grocery bills based on the weekly figures I’ve gotten from Alice the last couple weeks. Nothing to worry about there.”

Brian nodded. “I would like some spreadsheets on what I have sent to Canada for Gus's upkeep for this year and last year.”

Ted frowned. “Do you expect a problem there?”

“There have been some initial rumblings about Gus’s staying with us and I want to be prepared.”

Ted nodded. “I’ll email those to you later today. Rumor has it that they are having a tough time financially so I’m sure they don’t want you to scale back your contributions.”

Brian smirked. “That is what I am counting on, Theodore. Thanks for the financial info, great job as always.”

Ted left Brian’s office with a huge smile on his face. Compliments from Brian did not happen every day and Ted savored them when they came.

*****************************************************************************

Brian left the office early. He called Justin to find exactly where John’s soccer practice was located and told him he would pick John up.

Brian left his tie and suit jacket in the Corvette and sauntered down to the practice field. He attracted quite a bit of attention from a group of soccer moms and he was careful to stay a safe distance away from them.

On the field Patrick nudged John to point out Brian on the sidelines. Twenty minutes later when practice was over, John & Patrick headed over to the coach and pointed out Brian to him. Coach Logan came over to let Brian know that he was impressed by the tips Brian had passed along to John & Patrick on Saturday. He had actually had John & Patrick demonstrate a couple things to the team. The Coach also thanked Brian for sponsoring the team.

Patrick’s mother, Roxanne, made her way over from the other soccer moms and introduced herself to Brian. After exchanging a few pleasantries Brian and John headed to the Corvette.

Once they were in the car, Brian turned to his nephew. “They didn’t seem too judgmental or annoying for a couple of heteros.”

John laughed and shook his head. “Nice to know that you are keeping an open mind.”

When they got home Alice was in the kitchen. Brian was a little surprised when John went over and gave her a hug.

Alice returned the hug. “Welcome home honey. Your brother is reading out by the pool. He has been waiting for you to come and go swimming.”

John nodded and went upstairs to change. Brian gave Alice a raised eyebrow look. She smiled. “Welcome home to you too Uncle Honey.” Brian played along and came over to give her a hug.

“Your nephews are two young men who have been starved for affection. I think you probably understand that feeling. I don’t want you to worry about having to satisfy their need for hugs. Grandmom Jen and I will take care of that. Justin is in the studio in case you want to get your hugging needs fulfilled.”

A smiling Brian went upstairs to change before heading to the studio. He walked into the sun filled room and saw Justin asleep on the daybed. Brian stopped for a minute and just gazed at Justin. He had one of his spontaneous lesbionic thoughts that Justin was the most adorable person in the world. Brian shook his head to clear out that thought and headed over to the daybed.

Brian leaned over and gave Justin a kiss. “Time to wake up sleeping beauty.” Justin stretched, slowly opened his eyes and gave his partner a huge smile.

“What a great way to wake up.” Brian sat down and pulled Justin into a lap. Justin put his arms around Brian’s neck before they locked lips. Brian lay back on the bed with Justin lying on top of him.

“Welcome home Brian.” “Always feels good to come home to you Sunshine. Alice told me to come up here and get my hugging needs taken care of.”
Justin chuckled. “She is very well trained. Maybe we should give her a raise?”

Brian smirked. “After my meeting with Ted this morning there will be no raises for anyone.”

Justin pulled away and got a worried look on his face. “Is it serious?”

“I didn’t mean to make that smile go away. Not too serious but cash flow will be down from Tay-Kin and KT so we shouldn’t make any large purchases for a little while.”

Justin nodded. “That should be a short term problem, once the renovations are done the Bloom building should give KT some good revenue.”

“I agree and there is no real need for us to worry. If I didn’t keep you up to date there would be hell to pay when you found out.”

Justin’s smile returned. “You are a wise man to understand you should never lie to me.”

Brian answer was to pull Justin in for another kiss.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 28

Brian worked from home on Friday, he didn’t want to miss Gus’s arrival with his sister & mothers. After breakfast with Justin and the nephews, Brian headed for the study to work. Justin did some work in his studio before taking John to his soccer practice.

Justin and Brian had lunch with Peter who they could tell was a little nervous about the new temporary residents in his new home. After lunch Justin pressed Peter into service to help him assemble the ingredients for jambalaya. Once the jambalaya was simmering on the stove, Justin and Peter left to pick up John from soccer practice.

When Justin drove up to the house, after picking up John, Brian was standing outside. John and Peter went into the house while Justin joined Brian outside.

Brian put his arm around Justin’s shoulders. “Lindsay called a few minutes ago to say they had just exited off 79 so they should be here any minute.”

A few minutes later a minivan came around the curve of the driveway. As soon as it came to a stop Gus got his seatbelt undone and was out of the car running towards the two men. Brian squatted down and held out his arms.

Gus threw himself into his father’s arms. “Daddy we’re here! I get to stay with you and Papa for a whole month.”

“I know Sonny Boy we have been looking forward to your visit.”

Gus had his arms around his father’s neck and gave him a sloppy kiss on the cheek. “I love you Daddy! I’m really happy to be here with you.”

Gus turned towards Justin. “Hi Papa! I love you.”

Justin came closer so he could give Gus a kiss. “I love you Gus. Your Daddy and I are so happy that you are here for a nice long visit.”

JR had been released from her car seat and was running over. Seeing her brother in his father’s arms she headed in Justin’s direction. “Hi Uncle Jus! We finally got here. It took us a very long time. Mama said it took so long because Mommy and I had to go potty too many times.”

Justin scooped up the little girl into his arms. “Hello JR. I’m sorry the trip took so long but I am happy to see you.” He gave her a kiss on the cheek.

JR looked over at her other Uncle. She knew there was no way she could displace Gus from his father’s arms. “Hi Uncle Bri. Are you happy to see me?”

Brian smiled and leaned over to give JR a kiss. “I am always happy to see you little girl.”

Gus gave his father another kiss which successfully switched Brian’s attention back to him. Brian returned the kiss and gave his son a big smile. “Daddy loves you a lot Sonny Boy.”

Gus got a big smile on his face but did turn a little to give his sister a triumphant look that said she had no hope of diverting Brian’s attention from him.

Melanie and Lindsay came over to the group. Lindsay gave both men a kiss. Melanie gave Justin a warm greeting and a kiss on the cheek. She said hello to Brian and headed in the house saying she needed to use the ladies room.

Gus turned again toward Justin. “Papa, JR and I are really thirsty can we please have something to drink.”

Justin gave Gus a full blown sunshine smile. “Sure thing Little Man. We have plenty of your favorite juice boxes and Mrs Simpson has been baking lots of cookies. Let’s go in the house so you and JR can have some juice and cookies.”

Both kids got down and ran in the house with the three adults following behind. Gus & JR raced into the kitchen but came to a quick stop when they saw John and Peter standing by the kitchen counter. JR moved behind her brother for protection.

Gus was surprised for just a minute before he remembered who these big boys might be. “Hi! I’m Gus and this is my little sister. Are you my new cousins?”

John laughed. “Hi Gus. I’m John and this is my little brother Peter. We are your cousins, we’ve been waiting for you to get here. Nice to meet you.”

Seeing Mrs Simpson, who Gus knew from previous visits, standing by the big boys gave him extra confidence. He ran over and gave John and Peter each a quick hug. Jr smiled at the boys but stayed safely behind her big brother.

Gus turned his attention to Mrs Simpson. “Hi Mrs Simpson. Papa said JR and me could have juice boxes and a cookie. We both like chocolate chip cookies the best.”

Gus climbed onto a kitchen stool and a slightly apprehensive JR was helped up onto a stool by John.

Alice got 2 juice boxes out of the refrigerator and put them on the counter along with a cookie for each of the children. “Well Gus and JR we are all so happy you are here. We have been waiting for you all day.”

After a big drink of his juice box and a bite out of his cookie Gus replied. “It took a long time to get here but now I get to stay with my Daddy and Papa for a whole month. Daddy said on fourth July we are going to have a big party with lots of fireworks.”

By now all four parents had made their way to the kitchen. Brian introduced his nephews to Lindsay and Melanie. The boys politely shook hands but their greetings from the two women was decidedly cool.

Brian went over and put his hands on Gus’s shoulders. “Daddy is really happy that you are here Sonny Boy. I bet you are going to have a lot of fun with your cousins. John likes to play soccer just like you and I bet Peter will be happy to read you the latest Harry Potter.”

Gus, wide eyed with excitement, turned on his stool to look at his father. “Wow Daddy. Even though they are big boys will my cousins still want to play with me?”

Both John and Peter smiled at the little boy and told him they were looking forward to spending time with him. They told Gus that he was their only cousin which delighted him. Justin asked the nephews to take the luggage from the minivan upstairs.

Lindsay and Melanie exchanged a glance and then Lindsay asked Brian if she could talk to him in the study. Now it was Brian and Justin’s turn to exchange a look before Brian led the way to the study.

Justin sat beside Gus. “I’m surprised you haven’t asked about swimming yet Little Man. You are usually so anxious to get into the pool.”

“None of my swimming suits fit me anymore. Mommy said I had a growed splurt, so now my summer clothes are mostly too small.”

Justin looked at Melanie. “We haven’t had a chance to buy new summer stuff yet. It’s not as warm in Toronto as here.”

Justin nodded. “Well I think we need to take care of clothes shopping right away. Alice can you take care of my jambalaya and the kids while Mel and I make a quick run to Kohl’s?”

“No Problem.”

JR leaned toward her brother and whispered in his ear. Gus nodded. “Papa, can you buy JR some pink outfits. Pink is her favorite and Mama never wants to buy her pink stuff.”

Justin gave JR a kiss on top of her head. “I sure will buy you some pink outfits and maybe even something with ruffles.”

JR had a huge smile as she bounced on the stool and clapped her hands. “Thank you Uncle Jus.”

Melanie decided to intervene. “I don’t think we need to rush out tonight. Linds and I can do some shopping tomorrow.”

Justin shook his head. “Nope. We need to get some summer stuff tonight, especially some swimsuits. Of course if you don’t want to go I may just buy everything in pink.”

Melanie shook her head. “Okay, I certainly don’t want to see that happen.”

Gus pulled on Justin’s shirt. “Papa I don’t want any pink clothes. I want black shirts like Daddy wears.”

“I promise Gus no pink for you but maybe just one or two black shirts. I like other colors too.”

“Okay but remember no pink please!”

Melanie was quiet when they first got in Justin’s car. After a few moments she took a deep breath. “You’re a smart guy Justin so you have figured out it wasn’t just a lack of time that kept us from clothes shopping it was also a lack of money.”

“So things haven’t been going too well for you and Linds?”

Melanie gave a short laugh. “Financially we are at the end of our rope. You know that I couldn’t practice law in Canada without taking classes and the Ontario bar exam. The classes and the prep seminar for the exam are pretty expensive. I decided I needed to make some money before we spent so much of our savings. I got work as a paralegal and things went pretty well for a while.

Linds stayed home with the kids so we didn’t have daycare expense and we were able to save a little money. Linds eventually started teaching an art class at a community college a couple nights a week. I was just about to start taking the law classes. I was working on a big case at the law firm that was being handled by a very senior partner of the firm. I disagreed with him about some legal precedents and our discussion got pretty heated. I should have known better, the next day I was fired.

At first I was able to get some contract paralegal work at some other large law firms. They knew I wanted full time and they were really happy with my work. A couple times they just about told me they would hire me full time but it never happened. Eventually the calls stopped coming, word got out that I was difficult to deal with. I took a couple law classes but without my salary our savings started to go down fast. Lindsay got some more classes to teach but not fulltime. We moved to Canada because there was less prejudice against gays but there is a very quiet prejudice against Yanks moving up there and taking jobs from Canadian citizens.”

Justin had listened quietly. “What about the money Brian sent each month?”

Melanie sighed. “That kept us afloat but we had rent, utilities, food and clothes to pay for. The furnace in the house we rent is really old and inefficient. Our heating bills are astronomical. With Linds spending more time teaching I took on child care. Any job I could get paid less than what daycare would have cost.”

“So how bad has it gotten?”

“We are broke, no more savings. The last of that went to repair our van last month. House rent is due on Sunday and we don’t have it. The community college just told Lindsay that they are going to have to cut her hours.”

Justin wasn’t sure what to say. He knew that this is what Lindsay wanted to talk to Brian about. They expected Brian to bail them out of the hole they dug themselves into. Justin knew that it would do no good to show how annoyed he was.

“So Lindsay is asking Brian for a loan. That is why she wanted to talk to him.”

“Yes. I wanted to let you know before you spent a lot of money on clothes. I don’t want Brian to be annoyed with you if you spend this money and he gives money to Lindsay.”

Justin griped the steering wheel just a little tighter. “Lately a lot of people I talk with seem to think that Brian controls what money I spend. That is not correct! I can spend what I want without any input from Brian. I have a news flash on whatever Lindsay is asking for. If you guys need more than ten grand Brian will talk to me before he gives it to her. Ten grand is our individual spending limit.”

Melanie apologized as they pulled into Kohl’s parking lot. Justin was excited by the display of patriotic clothes for 4th of July by the main entrance. Much to Melanie’s amusement he selected tops and shorts for Gus & JR. JRs shirt had the promised ruffles. He also threw T shirts for John & Peter in the cart. Her amusement dimmed when he selected blouses for her and Lindsay checking with her for sizes. He even bought shirts for JR’s Daddy & Uncle Ben.

Melanie’s amusement reached new levels when Justin selected shirts for himself and Brian.

“Justin Taylor you will never get Brian to wear that shirt.”

Justin smiled. “I won’t have to do anything except get Gus to tell his Daddy he wants him to wear the shirt so the whole family matches.”

Melanie burst out laughing, knowing how true that was and just thinking about Bran having to wear that cheap tacky shirt was extremely amusing.

Justin made his way through the store filling the cart with clothes for Gus and JR. Melanie’s only input was on sizes. She knew that if she tried to slow the buying, Justin would just buy more. She tried to resist when Justin insisted on buying new outfits for her and Lindsay but there was no stopping the stubborn blonde.

Like the nephews on their shopping trip with Justin, Melanie was shocked by the final total at the register but she wisely kept her mouth shut. Justin did smile and say to her that Ted would be amazed when he saw Justin’s next American Express bill.

*************************************************************************************

Lindsay and Brian were in the study with the door closed. Brian was sprawled in one of the chairs while Lindsay paced around the room.

“Linds would you please stop wearing a path in the carpet and just tell me what’s on your mind.”

Lindsay sat primly on the edge of the sofa and explained her & Melanie’s disastrous financial situation.

Brian waited until she was done before saying anything. “Sounds like you have dug yourself into quite a hole. What exactly are you expecting me to do?"


“Well I was hoping that you would be able to help us out with some money.”

Brian walked over to his desk and picked up a pack of papers. “Linds, I’d like you to take a look at these spreadsheets. They show how much I sent you last year and so far this year. It is a considerable sum of money and yet somehow you have brought yourselves to the brink of bankruptcy.”

“Brian I know you have been very generous to us but if you won’t help us now I don’t know what we will do. I suppose I could ask my parents but we both know any help from them would come with lots of conditions.”

“Actually Linds any help from me will come with a couple of conditions as well.”

Lindsay looked shocked. “What kind of conditions?”

“Gus is getting older and I’m tired of begging for access to him from you and your “husband”. I want to have a regular schedule of visits. Also I am happy to continue to provide support for Gus but I am not prepared to fund your entire household in Toronto. Whatever I agree to give you now is just stop gap. We need to devise some go forward financial plan.”

Lindsay tried a new approach. “Peter, don’t you think it is a little unfair to make demands while you have me over a barrel. Let’s get the financial assistance out of the way. There will be plenty of time to discuss visitation after we get our finances straightened out.”

“Lindsay, Peter has finally grown up and visitation of my son is MY most important consideration. Your finances are way down on my list. I have already shown my lawyer the support information and he thinks I have an excellent chance of getting joint custody if we go to court.”

Lindsay’s eyes filled with tears. “Brian really! You would take me to court.”

“Lindsay enough with the crocodile tears. You have fucked me over for the last time. Even with this visit you call me up and ask if anyone is using Gus’s room. Every chance you get you make sure I understand that you don’t think I am a good father. Well the days of me being your private bank and begging for access to my son are over!”

“So you have plenty of money to buy Justin an art studio but you balk at giving money to the mother of your son.”

Brian laughed. “Jealous Linds? Sorry to disappoint you. The controlling share of the gallery was acquired by Tay-Kin Art. No Kinnetik money and no personal assets were involved. The Bloom building was acquired by KT properties. Again no Kinnetik or personal assets used.”

Lindsay flushed with embarrassment. “Okay Brian, you win. I don’t want to go to court. I promise we will work out a custody agreement acceptable to you.”

“I trust your promise but if you try and go back on your word I will make you very sorry. How much money do you need to clear your immediate problems?”

“Five thousand will carry us for two months and we have no cash with us.”

Brian walked over to one of the bookcases and pressed a release. The bookcase section swung out from the wall. Brian dialed the combination and opened the wall safe. He reached inside and took out a thousand dollars in twenties.

He handed the money to Lindsay. “I’ll have Ted wire the five thousand to your account on Monday.”

John knocked on the study door. “Uncle Brian. Mrs Simpson says dinner is ready and Uncle Justin just called to say he will be home in a couple minutes.”

*************************************************************************************

Justin called Alice to let them know they were on the way home. When they walked in the door Alice was empting rice out of a pot. The dining room table was set so all Justin and Melanie had to do was sit down and eat. Keeping Gus and JR in mind Justin had made the sauce pretty mild and it was a big hit with everyone.

Brian gave Justin a look across the table. Justin noticed that Lindsay looked flustered but dinner conversation was pretty normal. Once everyone was done eating, John & Peter cleared the table. Lindsay announced that Gus and JR should have their baths and get into their pajamas before they had dessert.

Gus wanted his Daddy to give him a bath. Melanie thought JR would be happier in the room with her mommies than her own room. So Justin moved a cot from the storage closet to the big guest room and got it ready for JR. He checked on Gus and Brian. Gus was laughing and Brian was soaking wet.

Justin smiled at the two of them. “Just who was getting the bath here?”

“Papa, I had the bath but Daddy got as wet as me.”

Brian smiled at his partner. “We’ll need to talk later Justin.”

Justin nodded and headed downstairs to check on the kitchen cleanup. He was a little surprised and very pleased to see that John & Peter had the table cleared and the dishwasher loaded. They were eating their dessert at the kitchen counter.

“You guys didn’t want to wait for us?”

“We were hungry again after all the hard work of cleaning up.”

Justin laughed. “Well you did a great job so I guess you deserve it.”

“We’re going to go play some video games when we’re done if that’s okay.”

Justin nodded. “Sure. No problem but would you do me a big favor first and bring the Kohl’s bags in from my car.”

While the nephews brought the bags in the house. Justin gathered some plates and silverware and put it on the dining room table. Then he took the apple and blueberry pies into the dining room and sat down to wait for the rest of the family.

Melanie and Lindsay came down first with JR. The women seemed a little subdued to Justin. He brought the bags with JR’s clothes into the dining room and let the little girl look through his purchases. She was thrilled with his selections. There were a couple pink outfits along with other pastels and a couple tops with ruffles. Her mommies were very amused by JR’s antics. Justin felt like that removed some of the tension in the room.

Brian and Gus appeared next. Gus had one of Justin’s T shirts on as his pajamas. “Look Papa, Daddy said my jammies would make me too hot so I get to wear your shirt!”

Justin brought in Gus’s new clothes. Gus quickly looked through the bag and was happiest with a couple black T shirts, one sleeveless which he help up proudly. “Look Daddy, just like your shirts. We’ll match!”

Gus came over and gave Justin a hug. “Thanks Papa for my new clothes. You did a really good job.”

JR followed her brother over and gave also gave Justin a hug. “Thanks Uncle Jus. I love my new clothes especially the pink ones.”

After everyone had dessert JR was pretty much asleep sitting in her booster chair. Gus was rubbing his eyes and requested that Papa read him a story. Melanie and Lindsay gave Gus good night kisses and took JR up to their room. They said they were tired from the trip and would not be back downstairs.

Brian and Justin got Gus settled into bed. Brian told Justin he would be in the study. Justin read 3 pages of the story and Gus was out for the night before he even finished the third page.

Justin turned on the night light and closed Gus’s door before he headed down to the study.

Brian was sitting on the sofa nursing a small glass of Beam. Justin came and sat beside him, Brian put his arm around Justin’s shoulders and pulled him close.

“Melanie told me about their finances on the way to the store. So how much did you agree to give Lindsay?”

Brian smirked. “There has to be more to this story. I can’t believe they could let themselves get into such a bad situation. Linds said they needed five grand to stay afloat for two months. Apparently they brought little cash with them so I gave her a thousand out of the safe. I told her Ted would transfer the money to their account on Monday. I also made it clear that my condition for bailing them out was a formal visitation arrangement with Gus.”

Justin smiled. “Good job Daddy! What happens after two months?”

“We are going to have to sit down with them and come up with some go forward plan. It is not going to be that we support their household in Toronto and I told Lindsay that. I think they have to move back. Hopefully Melanie can get a job as a lawyer. I was thinking about your gallery manager job as a possibility for Lindsay.”

Justin smiled disappeared. “I think the manager job could be problematic. Lindsay was an artist mentor to me before they moved. It might be hard for her to work for me now. Also I told Sidney that he should pick the manager. He was really disappointed with Lindsay over the Auerbach fiasco. I’m not sure he will want her back and I will not force him to accept her.”

“That’s fair Sunshine. I suppose Melanie will have to take the PA bar exam and there will probably be some prep course before she does that. It may take a while to get them to be self-sufficient.”

“Well they can’t stay here until that happens. This is a big house but too small to have everyone living here. I think they should move into the loft, we can have a couple temporary walls put up to create bedroom space for the kids. That way we eliminate rent and we can pay utilities until they are both working again.”

“They will be kind of cramped there and the furniture is not kid friendly and very expensive.”

“We can put your furniture into storage and they can move their stuff in except for the bed. Gus can spend weekends here and JR can spend time with Michael and Ben or Debbie. Mel and Linds are the ones who fucked up and there should be consequences for their actions.”

“You are tough Sunshine but correct. I’m sure they won’t be happy but they don’t have a lot of alternatives.”

Brian leaned in to give Justin a kiss. Both of them headed down to the media room and challenged the nephews to a video game. The three games that followed were runaway wins for John and Peter. The nephews were pretty amused as Brian and Justin each blamed the other for the losses. John told them that they were equally bad. Justin threw a pillow at him before the uncles departed.

Breakfast the next morning with eight people in the kitchen was pretty chaotic. Gus demanded Mickey Mouse pancakes for him & JR from his Papa. Brian made his own egg white omelet. John made his signature scrambled eggs for himself, Peter and Melanie. Lindsay & Justin had plain pancakes. A gallon of orange and two pots of coffee were consumed along with half of Alice’s homemade coffee cake.

The household was just about done breakfast when Michael, Ben and Debbie arrived with a dozen donuts. More coffee was made to go along with the donuts. Just in time to share the donuts and coffee Jennifer and Tucker came into the kitchen. Gus and JR were bouncing off the walls with excitement.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad


Chapter 29

Eventually the chaos spilled out onto the patio and for some attendees into the pool. Now that Gus had swimwear that fit he was anxious to get in the water. JR was a little put off by some many people and so much noise. She stayed happily in Uncle Ben’s arms. Ever since she was a baby being held securely in Ben’s arms was where JR wanted to be if she felt at all anxious or unsure.

John and Peter were in the pool. Peter was attempting back flips into the deep end. John was giving him a boost up. Justin was sitting on the side of the pool watching Gus paddle around the shallow end of the pool, swimmies firmly on his arms. Ben got in the pool still holding JR, he ducked down to get JR wet. Each time he did it she produced a delighted squeal.

Michael camera in hand was busy taking picture of his daughter in his husband’s arms. Most of the other adults were occupying chairs and loungers talking and watching the action in the pool.

Gus got fascinated by Peter’s backflips and moved closer to John. “Hey Gus! Want to try doing a back flip?”

A very excited Gus willingly agreed. Peter swam to the side of the deep end and Justin slid into the water on the other side of the pool. John gave Gus some instructions. John laced his finger together and got Gus to stand on them before lifting him and throwing him over.

A smiling Gus sprung up out of the water coughing a little. In seconds Justin and Peter were by his aide asking if he was okay. Gus assured them he was fine, he just forgot to keep his mouth closed.

Gus swam as quickly as he could back to John and asked if they could do it again. His second attempt went off without incident. JR still safely in Uncle Ben’s arms laughed and clapped her hands at her brother’s antics. A smiling Gus again swam over to his cousin ready to do another backflip.

Lindsay was watching from her chair and before the third backflip she called over to her son. “Gus I think you should stop doing that. You might get hurt.”

“I am being careful Mommy. This is lots of fun.”

Jennifer was sitting near Lindsay. “Lindsay dear, you need to relax. You’ll have a nervous breakdown before Gus is a teenager. Boys love rough housing. John is a very responsible young man, he’s had to be with that mother of his. He’ll make sure Gus is alright. Justin and Peter are both ready to come to Gus’s rescue.”

“Well it makes me nervous. Gus is just a little boy. I think John may be too rough with him.”

Jennifer’s eyes narrowed. “Really dear you are over anxious. Do you think Justin would allow this if he thought Gus could get injured? Gus is having a great time and JR is enjoying the show her brother is providing. Maybe you should just turn your chair around and not watch.”

Lindsay started to argue but she was cowed by the disapproving look Jennifer gave her. Debbie was also looking at her and shaking her head. “Relax Linds. Jennifer is right boys are always doing some crazy thing. Sometimes it is better to just not watch. Sunshine is keeping his eye on him.”

Brian overheard the conversation from where he was sitting and talking with Tucker. He excused himself and went over to the side of the pool. When Gus surfaced from his latest attempt, Brian was clapping. “Good job Sonny Boy! Cousins can be a lot of fun can’t they.”

Gus had a huge smile on his face and he looked towards John with delight. “My cousins are the most fun!”

As Gus swam back to John, Brian turned and gave Lindsay a look that let her know she had better sit back and relax. He smiled at Jennifer who raised her eyebrows and shook her head. Both Brian and Jennifer felt Lindsay’s main issue was Gus interacting with his cousins. Both were prepared to nip her attitude in the bud.

After a few more tosses into the deep end Justin distracted Gus by racing him across the pool. Brian got in the pool and let Gus ride on his back as he swam around the pool. After that his cousins showed Gus how to cannonball into the pool. Gus could hardly remember ever having this much fun.

Jennifer and Debbie were soaking in the hot tub, Michael was trying to coax his daughter out of Ben’s arms while Tucker chatted with Lindsay and Melanie.

Eventually Justin asked Brian to get the grill started for lunch. Justin headed into the kitchen. He was getting burgers, hotdogs and seafood kabobs out of the refrigerator along with the fixings for a salad.

Jennifer came into the kitchen. “Sweetheart what can I do to help?”

Justin laughed “Pick whatever you want and start chopping it up.”

Jennifer grabbed a knife and started chopping broccoli. She glanced out the French doors to the patio. Gus was sitting in Brian’s lap by the side of the pool and JR was sitting in Michael’s lap. They were all watching John on Ben’s shoulders and Peter on Tucker’s shoulders compete in chicken fights in the pool. Jennifer could see both Gus and JR laughing and clapping their hands. Debbie still in the hot tub was also watching the pool hijinks and laughing.

Melanie and Lindsay were sitting off to the side of the patio and talking together. Jennifer frowned. “Gus seems to be enjoying his new cousins but Honey what is up with Lindsay and Melanie?”

“They seem to have some problem with John and Peter. I have no idea why.”

“I hope they are not going to make a problem about Gus’s visit.”

Justin chuckled grimly. “I don’t think they will dare make any trouble right now.”

Jennifer looked at her son with raised eyebrows. “What’s up?”

“You cannot tell anyone, especially Debbie, but they are broke. Somehow they have spent all their money.”

Jennifer was astonished. “So what happen now?”

“Well first I buy the kids all new summer clothes because they came with none that fit them. Than Brian gives them six thousand dollars to see them through the next two months. He does make a condition of the money that he gets a formalized visitation schedule with Gus. What happens next is undecided.”

“Wow!”

They got back to preparing the salad in silence.

Jennifer clears her throat. “You know Honey I have something to tell you. It concerns finances.”

“Molly already told me that Tucker has his condo up for sale and that he is moving in with you. I hope you will both be really happy.”

Jennifer laughed. “You are such a bad liar. I know Molly told you. What I wanted to tell you was that I got a letter from your father’s lawyer asking to reduce my alimony payment. Looks like his business is not doing so well so you were smart to go a different career direction.”

Justin laughed. “I hope you told the lawyer to forget about any reduction.”

“Actually honey I had my lawyer send a letter saying that since MY business was doing so well Craig could stop the alimony altogether.”

“Mom, why would you let him win?”

“Justin don’t you see. He hasn’t won, I have! I made sure the response letter said how well my business was doing. I don’t need anything from him, I can take care of myself. That will drive Craig insane. He was so sure we would all fall apart without him.”

Mother and son were smiling as they went back to salad prep. A few minutes later Brian came in to get the food for grilling. He gave the grinning mother & son an odd look before heading back outside.

Brian was delighted with the mass exodus after lunch. JR went home with Michael & Ben; Justin sent their July 4th outfits with them after making them promise not to mention the matching outfits to Brian.

Jennifer and Tucker left next and finally Lindsay and Melanie left to have dinner with friends.

Exhausted by his fun afternoon, Gus fell asleep while watching a video. John and Peter went downstairs to the game room.

Brian placed a baby monitor in the media room and brought the receiver with him while he and Justin took a shower, including some intense sex, in the bathroom by the home gym. Happily Gus slept soundly in the media room for an hour and a half.

They ordered Pizza for dinner and woke Gus up in time to eat. He watched the end of his video before bath and bed. Justin read Gus a story and once the boy was asleep Justin headed to the studio.

Brian worked on his laptop in the family room. When he heard the front door open he went to the entrance hall. Lindsay and Melanie were just coming in from their dinner with friends.

“Hello ladies. I trust you had a pleasant evening.”

Lindsay smiled. “We had a really nice dinner. How was your evening?”

“Great. We had pizza for dinner, Gus enjoyed it. I’d like to discuss a couple thing with you. Let’s go down to the study, we’ll have privacy there.”

“Actually Brian. We are a little tired, maybe we should put off any discussions until tomorrow.”

“Actually no. It won’t take long but we need to talk about a couple things tonight.”

Brian led the way down the hall. Once they were all in the study Brian shut the door. “Would you like anything to drink?”

Both Lindsay and Melanie shook their heads.

“First I would like to ask what you have against my nephews. You have both been barely civil to them since you got here.”

Lindsay looked uncomfortable. “Well knowing their history we are concerned about them spending time with Gus without proper supervision.”

“So this afternoon with Gus’s mothers, fathers and grandmothers all watching; you didn’t think there was proper supervision?”

Lindsay shrugged. “I guess we can’t get past John accusing you of abuse. I don’t want Gus to get into the middle of something like that. Also we are worried that Gus will get attached to these new cousins and when they go back to live with Claire and disappear from his life he will be confused and hurt.”

“John and I have made our peace over his abuse allegation, which he did recant before it got too far. If I am okay with that situation I don’t think anyone else needs to be concerned about it. Frankly it is none of your business. Justin and I have promised the boys that even when they go back to live with their mother we will stay in touch with them. They are not going to disappear from anyone’s life.“

Melanie shook her head. “Brian I can hardly believe I am going to accuse you of this, it must be Justin’s influence, but I think you are sugarcoating this situation.”

“And I think that both of you are so convinced that I cannot be trusted with my son that you look for problems that don’t exist. Moving on to the second topic I wanted to talk about; I think we need to sit down and discuss establishing a formal visitation schedule for Gus and what plans you have for your financial future. I suggest we have a lunch meeting at Kinnetik on Monday. That will give us the privacy we need to resolve these things.”

Melanie looked shocked. “What visitation agreement are you talking about? Lindsay and I are Gus’s legal parents. We decide when and where you get to spend time with him.”

“You and are wife are not communicating very well. A formal visitation agreement is my condition for my financial help and I told Lindsay that yesterday.”

Brian walked over to his desk and picked up his support spreadsheets. “Here are the totals for what I sent to you for Gus’s support for last year and so far this year. I have already spoken with a lawyer and he feels pretty confident that if I take this to court I will get the visitation I believe I deserve. I prefer to handle this privately between us. I told Lindsay this was my condition for the five grand that will be deposited to your account on Monday and she agreed.”

Melanie looked at Lindsay who shrugged. “And what choice do we have Mel?”

A visibly annoyed Melanie turned back to Brian. “This is blackmail! I wonder how you would like it if someone forced you into doing something like this.”

“From my viewpoint you and Lindsay have been blackmailing me for years by threatening to limit my time with my son! As for anyone forcing me to do something, I will tell you what I told Claire when she complained about having to go to rehab. Once I left Jack and Joanie’s house I have never let myself get into the position of letting anyone else control my actions, except Justin.

Monday; be at Kinnetik at noon, we’ll order salads from the diner. If you choose not to be there, we will be in court later this week. My lawyer has a tentative court date of Friday unless the holiday delays the court schedule.”

Melanie and Lindsay left the room without saying anything.

Brian headed over to the studio where Justin was busy painting. Brian brought his partner up to date on his conversation with Gus’s mothers. Brian was amused by the blue fire coming from Justin’s narrowed eyes. Justin was ready to go to the guest room and confront the two women but when he saw that Brian was okay and had the situation under control he calmed down.

***********************************************************************************

Sunday started early with a knock on the bedroom door and Gus asking “Daddy can I come in?”

“Come on in Sonny Boy the door is unlocked.”

A delighted Gus burst through the door, slamming it closed behind him. He got to the bed in a full run and jumped between his fathers. Brian grabbed him and gave him a kiss.
“Good morning Sonny Boy you are up nice and early this morning.”

Justin opened his eyes briefly. “Good morning Little Man.”

Gus giggled. “Papa are you going to be a sleepyhead this morning?”

Brian laughed. “Your Papa is a sleepyhead every day!”

Gus thought that was hysterically funny and kept laughing even when Justin hit him with a pillow. Brian grabbed a pillow and a full-fledged pillow fight ensued with Gus laughing too hard to land many pillow hits.

“Sonny Boy, help your Dad. You need to tickle Papa so I can win the pillow fight.”

A still laughing Gus dove under the covers to attack Justin’s midsection with tickles. A squirming, laughing Justin had to concede defeat. All three of them lay back on the bed laughing. Brian finally got out of bed announcing he had to use the bathroom.

Justin sat back against the pillows and Gus moved to lie right beside him. Justin put his arm around the boy and pulled him close. Gus snuggled against his Papa and rested his head on Justin’s chest. Justin hated the thought that one day, probably not too far in the future, Gus would not be as ready to snuggle with his fathers.

Gus got quiet and turned his head slightly to look up at Justin’s face. “Papa do you and Daddy ever argue?"

Justin wondered where this conversation was going to lead. “Well Gus, not too often but I think that everyone who lives together all the time disagree sometimes. So yes; your Dad and I sometimes argue.”

“Do you yell at each other when you disagree?”

Justin smiled. “Actually when Brian and I argue we usually get quieter but it is not something we do very often. Why are you wondering about that?”

Gus was quiet for a few moments and had a very serious expression on his face. “Mommy and Mama don’t get quiet! When they argue they yell really loud. I try not to listen but it scares me when they yell so much and it scares JR too.”

“I’m really sorry that you and JR get scared but your mommies are not trying to scare you. People have different ways to disagree and sometimes yelling helps people get their feelings out and afterwards they feel better about things that were bothering them. It doesn’t mean your mommies don’t love each other.”

Justin was heartbroken to see Gus’s eyes fill with tears. “Lately Papa when they yell, Mama says to Mommy that they have no money. She said that we are going to wind up living on the street. I see people sometimes laying on the sidewalk. Mommy told me that sometimes people don’t have any home so they have to stay outside all the time. I don’t think I would like to live outside, I think I would be afraid. I know JR would be afraid because sometimes she cries just because there is loud noise outside our house.”

The tears were flowing down Gus’s cheeks and Justin hugged the little boy and kissed his forehead. He glanced up to see Brian had come into the bedroom. Justin had never seen Brian look so stricken. Justin almost got out of bed to go to his partner.

Brian hurried to the bed and climbed in. He moved next to Gus and put his arm around his son so that Gus was cradle between the two men.

Brian gave his son a kiss on the top of his head and used his hand to wipe the tears off his cheeks. “Gus I need you to listen to me. You know your Dad never breaks his promises right?”

Gus nodded and Brian smiled at him. “I promise you, Sonny Boy, that I will never allow you to be homeless. That will never ever happen! Your Papa and I both work very hard and we make enough money to make sure that you will always have a home.”

“But Daddy supposed Mommy and Mama and JR have to live on the sidewalk. I would worry about them.”

Justin knew that Brian was probably wishing a much worse fate on Lindsay and Melanie so he took over the conversation.

“Gus we have a big loving family that would never allow any member of the family to not have a home. There is Grandmom Debbie, Uncle Mikey, Uncle Ben, Grandmom Jen even your Auntie Em. None of them would ever allow one of us to be homeless. So your mommies and JR will never have to live outside.
”
“Are you sure Papa?” “Gus I am 100% positive, absolutely no doubt in my mind!”

Gus sighed and his smile reappeared at half-mast. Brian suggested they go downstairs and have breakfast. Gus was off the bed in an instant and heading downstairs urging Brian and Justin to hurry up.

Justin gave Brian a kiss. “You doing okay Daddy?”

“I’ll feel better once I kill Lindsay and Melanie!”

“I think your plan may need some work. I don’t think it will make Gus happy to have two dead mommies and a Dad in prison. It could make him feel a little less secure.”

Brian gave Justin a smack on the bottom before kissing him.

In the kitchen Gus requested frosted flakes, which to Brian’s horror, had been stocked in the cabinet by Justin. Brian insisted on slicing a banana into the cereal so there would some nutritional value to his son’s breakfast. He also insisted that Gus drink a glass of orange juice. Justin enjoyed a bowl of frosted flakes from the stool beside Gus. He also had a cut up banana in his cereal courtesy of Brian.

Much to Brian’s annoyance and Justin’s relief, Lindsay and Melanie had already left for a day of visiting with friends.

John and Peter came downstairs for Breakfast. They opted for frozen waffles with fresh strawberries which met with Uncle Brian’s approval until they added whip cream as a topping. Brian announced he was afraid he was gaining weight just by being in the same room as all the unhealthy breakfasts so he took his dry wheat toast, coffee and guava juice out onto the patio.

After breakfast Peter asked if he could invite Josh and his parents to the 4th of July barbeque. Justin told him that was no problem. With all the people Brian invited, three more would hardly be noticed.

Gus got permission from Justin to change to a bathing suit and as he raced out of the room, Justin warned him not to run on the stairs. Justin poured two mugs of coffee’ added some half & half to his and 4 spoons of sugar to one for Brian, and went outside.
Justin gave Brian a kiss on the top of his head and placed his coffee mug on the table in front of him. “So Daddy, Gus is changing so he can go in the pool. One of us will have to put on a bathing suit.”

“Okay. Do you think Mother Taylor could come over here tomorrow to kind of oversee Gus and the nephews?”

“I’ll give her a call but do you think we really need her to be here? Alice & Charlie will be here and I’ll be back after we meet with Lindsay and Melanie.”

“I think the munchers are feeling pushed to the wall and I’m just afraid they will try to create some issue to put us on the defensive. Maybe a call to the state to say the boys are not properly supervised.”

“I think you might be worrying over nothing but I’ll give Mom a call.”

Gus burst through the patio doors from the house. “Daddy come swim with me!”

Brian smiled. “Okay Sonny Boy just wait a minute for me to change.” He headed over to the pool house to put on a bathing suit.

Justin went into the house leaving father and son happily splashing around in the pool. He called Jennifer who said she would be happy to spend time with the three boys. She had a client who closed on a house last week who owned a bowling alley. He said to let him know when she wanted to bowl and he would reserve a lane for her. Justin agreed with his mother that bowling would be a great outing for all three boys. Jennifer laughingly said she would be glad to bowl with the gutter guards they would put up for Gus, she was sure that would improve her normal score.

John & Peter came downstairs dressed for swimming. Justin gave them a smile. “Gus will be thrilled to have more people to swim with. I was just talking to my Mom; she is going to take you guys and Gus bowling tomorrow. Uncle Brian and I have a lunch time meeting at Kinnetik and I have to stop at the gallery before that.”

John gave a quick laugh. “We haven’t been bowling since Gramps died. He took us several times.”

Peter added. “He sure hated when we got a gutter ball. One of those always resulted in lots of coaching from Gramps.”

Justin was a little surprised that the boys seemed to have a positive memory of Jack Kinney. “You guys won’t have to worry about gutter balls. Grandmom Jen is going to have them put the gutter guards up on your alley for Gus. I haven’t told him about bowling. Why don’t you guys tell him? I know he will be thrilled that you are going too.”

A few minutes after the nephews went outside, Justin heard Gus’s squeal of delight. He looked out the door and saw Brian looking towards the house with a big smile on his face. When he saw Justin he gave him a quick wave before turning back to the game he was playing with Gus.

Justin headed up to the studio with a smile on his face.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 30

Justin was going through his finished pieces to do some preliminary planning for his August show when his cell phone rang. He glanced at the display before answering and saw a local number but not one that he recognized.

“Hello” “Hi Justin. This is Melanie. I just wanted to let you know that we are at a friend’s house. Both Linds and I have been drinking wine so we think it is better for us to just stay here tonight.”

“Okay, that sounds like a good plan. So I guess we will see you tomorrow around noon at Kinnetik.”

“I guess so … I hope we will get there. I’ll try.”

“That really isn’t the answer I was looking for. Why would you not be there?”

“We may need to discuss this whole visitation thing some more before we commit to anything in writing.”

“NO FUCKING WAY! You are NOT going to do this to Brian. Let me assure you that no money will be transferred to your account until both your asses are in the conference room at Kinnetik.”

“Justin, Lindsay said Brian promised her he would send the money.”

“The money was promised with the condition of Brian getting formalized visitation rights with Gus. I can assure you that money will not be sent before you arrive for our meeting. Lindsay probably thinks she can manipulate Brian as she has done in the past. You both need to understand that I will not let that happen.”

“I know Brian has talked to a lawyer and he feels like he has a good chance of forcing this issue. I wonder if that lawyer know about Brian’s lifestyle over the years. Not exactly father of the year stuff.”

“In case you forgot Melanie just a few weeks ago you gave Brian a good review to the social worker who contacted you about the nephews coming to live with us. I’m sure a history of behavior would be really important if this goes to court. Let’s see if I have this straight; the first time you two separated it was because Lindsay cheated with Sam Auerbach. The second big dust up was when you cheated with Leda.

Getting to recent history you have somehow managed to take yourselves to the brink of bankruptcy. You are also having shouting matches that frighten your children and you say things like you will all be living on the street soon which worries and frightens your son.”

Melanie sighed at the other end of the conversation. “Listen Justin I don’t want to get into one-upmanship here. We have all made mistakes in the past because we’re human.”

“My point exactly Mel and I did not start that topic, you did. I was just pointing out that people who live in glass houses should not throw stones.”

“Justin I am really trying here. Lindsay wants to explore our options she is going to talk with her parents and you know they are not Brian’s biggest fans.”

“You know what Mel? I don’t really care who you or Lindsay talk to or who you manage to convince to give you money. You and Lindsay need to understand that if you are not at the meeting tomorrow, there will be no money transfer from us and the next time we talk will be in a courtroom.”

Justin disconnected and turned off his phone. He went downstairs and out on the patio. Brian was sitting on one lounger. Peter and Gus were sprawled on another lounger and Peter was reading to Gus.

Brian looked over at Justin with a smile. Justin motioned for Brian to come in the house. When Brian heard about Justin’s conversation with Mel he was incandescent with anger. For a moment Justin wasn’t sure he did the right thing in telling Brian about the call.

He managed to get Brian calmed down eventually. Brian headed to the study to email his lawyer while Justin got a couple chickens ready for the oven.

The rest of the afternoon went without incident. Justin turned his phone back on but there were no more calls from Melanie or Lindsay.

Brian spent most of his time with Gus, Peter & John divided their time between video games and the swimming pool. Justin spent considerable time on Sunday night dinner. The menu was roast chicken, baked yams, steamed broccoli and homemade biscuits and coconut custard pie for dessert.

The nephews were impressed by Justin’s culinary skills. Gus and Brian were more accustomed to meals prepared by Justin so less surprised by the dinner. Gus requested Peter read some more Harry Potter to him after dinner, so John helped Justin clean up from dinner.

“Uncle Justin is everything okay with Uncle Brian? When he thinks no one is paying attention he looks kind of upset.”

“Great powers of observation! It’s nothing for you to be concerned about. We are having a sort of dispute with Gus’s mothers.”

“I know I just met them but they seem kind of prissy and bitchy.”

Justin got a good laugh from John’s description. “They are not always like that but I can’t argue with your description of them for this visit. You can say whatever you want to Brian or me but don’t say anything around Gus.”

“Duh! Like I would bad mouth a little kid’s Mom. At Gus’s age I probably would have even defended my mother.”

************************************************************************************

The next morning Brian & Justin were up early to have breakfast with Gus. Leaving him in Alice’s care, they headed to the city. Brian got out at the Kinnetik building while Justin continued on to the Bloom Gallery.

Justin parked and went inside. He had emailed Sidney asking to meet with him this morning so Sidney was not surprised when Justin walked into his office.

“Good morning Justin. Would you like something to drink?”

“No I’m good. The reason I asked to see you this morning was we need to talk about the gallery manager position. I have a family situation that means I have a candidate I would like you to consider but it is still your final decision about who you chose as the best fit.”

Sidney smiled. “Families always seem to complicate our life but they also enrich it so what can we do.”

“You may remember that Lindsay Peterson and her wife moved to Canada a few years ago.”

“Yes I do remember hearing that but it was after she left the gallery.”

Justin nodded. “I do know why Lindsay was let go and I completely understand and agree with your decision. The thing is, the move to Canada has not worked out as planned. I think you know that Brian is the father of Lindsay’s son, Gus. It appears that Lindsay, Melanie and their children may be moving back to Pittsburgh. Brian thought that Lindsay might be a good fit for our gallery manager.”

Sidney chuckled. “Families! I was appalled by Lindsay lack of ethics when she had the affair with Sam Auerbach but that did happen several years ago. You can, of course, insist that Lindsay get the job. You do have the majority share.”

“That is absolutely what I do NOT want to do. I would like you to consider Lindsay but I won’t insist that you do. I will not second guess whatever decision you make. I told you this would be your decision to make and I stand by that.”

“None of us are perfect, I will be happy to meet with Lindsay but I will address my ethics concerns and see what she has to say.”

Justin smiled. “I appreciate it. The move back plans are not finalized so I will give you a call when I know if we need to set up the interview.”

The partners discussed a few items about the remodel that would be starting soon. Sidney let Justin know that he might be interested in renting one of the remodeled apartments on the second floor. Sidney also let Justin know that he and his son’s family would be at the July 4th barbeque but his daughter and family had other plans.

They shook hands and a relieved Justin left. Justin was pleased with how the meeting turned out, Sidney was very understanding about the Lindsay situation.

Justin parked in the Kinnetik garage and went upstairs to Brian’s office. Carole gave him a welcoming smile. “Brian is meeting with Hal and Patti from HR, there is some problem in the art department.”

Justin nodded and went into Brian’s office. Everyone’s attention turned towards him. Brian smiled, Patti nodded a greeting and Hal spoke. “Excuse us, we are having a confidential meeting in here.”

Brian’s smile disappeared in an instant. “Come in Justin and sit down. Patti has had visits from some art department employees.”

Hal turned to Patti. “I would like to keep this meeting confidential, don’t I have the right to ask for that?”

Patti’s eyes widened on surprise. “Hal, Justin is a part owner of Kinnetik. That gives him the right to attend any meeting in this building.”

Justin gave Brian a look that said let it go but he could tell that Brian was inches from firing Hal on the spot. Justin pulled up a chair and sat beside Patti who brought the meeting back on track.

“Justin the reason we are having this meeting is that members of the art department have come to me saying they wish that more of a team spirit would be encouraged. They feel like there would be an advantage to working together and sharing ideas.”

Hal bristled. “I believe that these comments came from just a few of my employees. The ring leader is no doubt Jason. He thinks of himself as Justin’s pet. I know this won’t be a popular thing to say but I think that with or without Justin’s knowledge some of the employees are trying to force me out so that Justin can be the new art director.”

Brian laughed. “Hal, somehow you keep forgetting that Justin is an owner of Kinnetik. If Justin wanted to be art director he would just have to say so and you would be out the door.”

Patti shook her head. “Hal we are satisfied with the job you are doing but there is always room for improvement. Several members of the art department staff have come to me. This is not a case of sour grapes from one or two people.”

Justin turned to Hal. “You know Hal I think it would be a good idea to set up kind of a mentoring program for the art staff. You don’t use the graphics program enough to be expert with it, that’s not your job. The experienced people who use it all the time know all the bells & whistles, tricks and shortcuts. I think it would be a good idea for them to share that knowledge. Jason is actually more Brian’s pet than mine. Brian is the one who requests Jason to work on his projects.That is because Jason seems to understand Brian’s vision, it makes sense to have him work with someone else and show them what Brian likes. That way if Jason ever leaves us we have some other people ready to step up.”

Hal sat with a sullen look on his face. Brian started to say something but Justin shook his head.

Patti finally spoke. “So Hal what do you think about setting up a mentoring program in the art department. That is something you and I could work on together.”

“I suppose it is worth a try if that’s what everyone wants.”

Brian did finally speak. “What everyone wants is a creative, knowledgeable, happy staff in the art department. You were hired for your organizational and management skills not your artistic skills which you told me in your interview were not your strength.”

Hal nodded. “I just want to know that I have your support.”

Brian looked straight at him. “You have my support as long as the art department continues to run smoothly. Patti, I’d like an update from you on when the mentoring program starts. In three months I want to have a meeting with the whole art department to see what they think about the whole mentoring thing. Justin I’d like you to sit in on that meeting as well.”

Hal stood up and left the room. Patti sighed. “He is so touchy. One of the people who came to see me was Leon, whose parents are friends of Hal’s. Leon felt he was not going to be successful unless he had more of a chance to work with the more experienced people in the art department. Hal is so sure Jason came to see but he never did, it’s the newer employees who have issues with Hal’s management style.”

Brian looked disgusted. “He’s a homophobic whiner but he does keep the department running smoothly for the most part. If you run across some hot prospect to replace him let me know.”

Patti got up, shook Brian & Justin’s hands and headed back to her office.

Justin came around and sat on Brian’s lap. “So big guy, I guess this was a warm up for our next meeting.” Brian just shook his head and gave Justin a kiss.

Justin smiled and looked into Brian’s eyes. “I feel sorry for Hal.”

“For fuck sakes Sunshine why would you feel sorry for him!”

“He’s so insecure. He keeps seeing conspiracies and thinks people are plotting against him. If he would just do his job everyone would be happier.”

Brian nodded his head.

***********************************************************************************

When Hal got back to the art department he called Leon into his office.

“Leon I am going to ask for your help. Some of the staff have been talking to Human Resources they are trying to get me fired. I’m sure Jason is behind this. I suspect he is working with Justin. I need to know what people are saying about me”

Leon looked uncomfortable. “Uncle Hal, I’m sure that Jason did not talk to HR. He doesn’t need help, it’s the new guys who are looking for some help.”

“Have you spoken to HR?”

“Yes Uncle Hal. We didn’t say anything really bad about you but you insist we only talk with you and only come to you with our questions. The thing is you don’t understand the graphics program as well as the more experienced guys who use it all the time. We can’t learn all the system capabilities if we only work with you.”

Hal sat back in his chair. “I was so sure this was Jason and Justin trying to make me look bad.”

“Uncle Hal, Jason says that Justin would have to be crazy to want to be art director here. Now he has the freedom to paint all day and they just bought controlling interest in an art gallery. Why would Justin want to tie himself down to a 9 to 5 job at Kinnetik?”

“Thanks Leon for being honest with me. Patti and I are going to work on a mentor program for the department.”

************************************************************************************

Lindsay and Melanie walked into the Kinnetik lobby at 11:45. Brian’s office door was open and as they entered the office Carole emailed Ted to give him the OK to transfer the $5K to Canada.

Brian looked up from his computer. “Hello ladies. Here is a menu from the diner. Pick out what you would like for lunch. Justin should be here shortly. He’s going over some remodeling numbers for the Bloom building with Ted.”

Lindsay’s facial expression revealed how little she wanted to be here. “Is it really necessary to have Justin included in this discussion. I don’t see how it really concerns him.”

Brian smiled. “Justin and I are partners. Everything that concerns me, concerns him. All you need to know is that I want him involved.”

Justin appeared, lunch was ordered and the four of them went into Brian’s private conference room.

Once they were seated Melanie spoke first. “Was the money transferred to our account?”

Brian nodded. “Yes, it was sent as soon as you entered the office. I am curious about your plans for your financial future. It seems to me that your Canadian adventure has not been a success, so I wonder if it is time to call an end to it.”

Lindsay spoke up. “I resent that you feel you can question us about out private life. We are having some financial issues but we are still adults who are capable of making our own decisions!”

Brian leaned back in his chair and laughed. It was not a pleasant laugh. “Capable of making decisions? Adults? I saw my son sobbing in Justin’s arms yesterday because the two of you “adults” have been having screaming matches and frightening him. That is very adult of you! Gus is worried about having to sleep on the sidewalk because he heard Melanie say that you will all be on the street soon. Excellent decision to let your children hear that statement.

What I suggest is that you get off your high horse and the four of us decide how we help you and Melanie climb out of the shit hole you have dug yourself in to.”

Melanie looked stricken. “I am so sorry that Gus overheard that, we should have been more careful when we argued. It has just been such a hard time for us. The problem is that I agree with you that the move to Canada has not gone as well as I hoped. However, at this point, we can’t afford to move back here.”

Justin entered the discussion. “It appears to us that you can’t afford to stay there either. That is why Brian is asking if you have a plan. We don’t think it is fair, or practical, to expect us to finance your household in Toronto indefinitely.”

Melanie shrugged. “Obviously whatever our plans have been they have not worked out as we hoped.”

Justin had a few questions. “So if you came back to Pittsburgh what is the status of your ability to practice law and is moving back something you two are considering?”

Melanie looked at Lindsay who was staring at the tabletop. “I have not kept up with continuing education to keep my law license active. I would have to take a couple of continuing Ed classes and pass those before I could practice law again. That would take a couple months at least and cost a few thousand dollars. We are certainly open to the idea of moving back.”

Brian stared at Lindsay across the table. “Lindsay apparently you don’t want to be any part of this discussion. I am curious about what your solution is to your current financial situation and how you plan to move forward.”

“I think this whole meeting is a farce. You can easily afford to help us out but for some reason we have to sit here and talk about the mistakes Melanie and I have made in the past. I think this is just your way of putting us on the defensive so you can force the issue of Gus’s custody. You have plenty of money to buy Justin an art gallery but won’t help one of your long term friends, the mother of your son.”

Justin looked quickly at Brian to see if his head would actually explode. Melanie’s mouth dropped open, she and Lindsay had been arguing about Lindsay’s expectations about Brian’s support all weekend.

“Lindsay first I would like to inform you that the funds to buy our controlling interest of the Bloom Gallery came from Tay-Kin Art. So that money came 100% from Justin’s art work. Second I want to point out that I have voluntarily contributed support money to you for Gus. No one just gives money to Justin and me for no reason. We earn every penny from hard work. Therefore I’m not sure why you think we should give you money just because we have been friends for a long time. As a friend I am trying to help you and Melanie but I am not prepared to pay you for your friendship.”

Lindsay looked shocked, Melanie looked embarrassed and Justin grabbed Brian’s hand under the table and squeezed it. Carole, not knowing what good timing she had, knocked on the door and delivered lunch.

The four of them picked at their salads and drank water until Justin spoke.

“Naturally Brian and I have been discussing what we could do to help. I am going to tell you what we think might work. These are not demands or ultimatums, just suggestions. Hopefully we can build on these suggestions and move forward to a solution.”

Lindsay and Melanie both nodded and Brian gave him a smile.

“First suggestion is that you move back to Pittsburgh and your support system. Second, is that you move into the loft. We can have some temporary walls put up to make small bedrooms for Gus and JR. That will give you basically no living expenses. We won’t charge rent and we’ll still pay the utilities. Third, we will loan you the money for moving costs and for Melanie’s classes to reinstate her law license. When your financial situation improves we expect that loan to be repaid.

Fourth, Sidney is interviewing for a gallery manager and he is willing to talk to Lindsay about the position. It is Sidney’s decision so it’s not a done deal. Fifth, once you get back on your feet financially and repaid your debts, Brian and I will hold a mortgage for you so you can buy a house.”

Lindsay looked at Brian who met her gaze without expression. “The loft! We would have no privacy there. You can’t just dictate to us what we have to do.”

Melanie placed her hand in Lindsay’s arm. “Linds you have to relax. Justin started out by saying these were suggestions. They are actually very generous suggestions and I appreciate them. It’s time for us to be honest.”

Lindsay looked panicked. Melanie smiled at her and finally Lindsay spoke. “I had a little gambling problem and that is how we got in so much trouble. I went with some other teachers to one of the casinos one afternoon for lunch. I played a little blackjack and I won quite a bit of money. In the beginning I won more than I lost. I told Melanie I was doing some tutoring which explained the time away and the extra cash. Then, of course, I started to lose more than win and kept trying to get ahead. The more money I lost, the more I gambled eventually there was just no more money. I told Mel and we’ve made our peace but there were quite a few loud discussions that Gus overheard.”

Brian shrugged. “None of us is perfect. Did you learn your lesson?”

“I’m going to Gamblers’ Anonymous. That was Mel’s condition for moving forward.”

Melanie took Lindsay hand. “I need to pay more attention to our finances and we are working on communicating better. I am actually okay with your suggestions but I do have some questions. I don’t think the furniture in the loft is very kid friendly and I don’t want to see it ruined. How long can we stay there rent free?”

Justin answered. “We plan on moving out furniture out. All your furniture probably won’t fit in the loft so we will rent a storage cubicle for you. When possible you guys should start paying the storage fee but the loft doesn’t really cost us anything. The other units in the building more than carry the monthly expenses. We rarely use it anymore so you can stay there as long as you need to get yourselves back on good financial footings.”

Brian spoke up. “Now I’d like to discuss Gus’s visitation schedule. I want him one weekend a month. Four weeks during the summer, either together or spread out which ever makes the most sense for everyone’s schedules. If we don’t spend holiday together I want Gus for holidays every other year.”

Lindsay and Mel looked at each other and asked for some time alone to discuss it. Brian and Justin went into Brian’s office to give the girls some privacy.

Brian paced the floor. “If it wasn’t for Gus I wouldn’t care if I ever saw Lindsay again.”

Justin was surprised. “Brian, she’s not the first person who got into trouble with gambling. Neither of us is perfect. I’m surprised you feel that way.”

“I don’t give a fuck about the gambling. It’s her jealousy of you and her expecting me to just give her money to solve her problems. Is that friendship?”

“Brian it’s just a tough time for everyone. I’m sure she’ll feel differently once things settle down.”

Brian shook his head. “I’ll never feel the same about her. I feel like she is showing her true colors.”

Melanie knocked on the door and let them know they could come back to the conference room. They wrote down the basics of the visitation agreement which the girls and Brian signed until a formal agreement could be drawn up by Brian’s attorney. Justin set up a Friday interview for Lindsay with Sidney. The meeting ended on a much more positive note than it began.

Since the girls were heading back to the house and Brian still had some work to finish, Justin rode back with Lindsay & Melanie.

Conversation, which dealt mainly with moving back to Pittsburgh, was remarkably easy. Justin did get the sense that Melanie was genuinely grateful for their help while Lindsay still felt disappointed that Brian was not more forthcoming with cash.

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 31

When Justin arrived back at the house with Lindsay & Melanie, Alice was in the kitchen working on a batch of potato salad for the big July 4th barbeque. Emmett was catering the event but there were some things that Alice insisted upon making. Her potato salad and deviled eggs were something everyone looked forward to every year.

Lindsay and Melanie continued on into the house but Justin stayed in the kitchen.

Justin gave her the housekeeper a hug. “Alice I hope you are not working too hard on barbeque stuff. Don’t worry about making dinner for us tomorrow. I will get Brian to grill something.”

Alice laughed. “Dinner is under control. You know I make this stuff because I want to do it not because I have to. I know that Emmett is capable of taking care of the food. By the way he called earlier. He will be here all day tomorrow overseeing deliveries and workmen. I told him that he should stay overnight tomorrow and he agreed. I got the pool house all set up for him to stay in there.”

Justin smiled. “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. What would we do without you! Thanks for taking care of that. Your daughter and her family are welcome to use the sorority house for sleeping.”

“We might just take you up on that offer. The kids can make do with Charlie and I but Linda and Scott may like having a little privacy and their own bathroom. I’ll let you know.”

Justin nodded. “I’m sure Charlie could fasten a set of the twin beds together and we could put a king size mattress cover and bed clothes on them so that it will be like one bed.”

Lindsay came back in the kitchen. “Where is Gus? I’ve checked the whole house and can’t find him.”

Alice had her back to Lindsay and she frowned at Justin.

“Linds, my mother took John, Peter and Gus bowling today. Since we would all be tied up I thought that would keep the boys occupied. Mom enjoys spending time with them.”

“I just thought Alice would be watching Gus.”

“Alice is our housekeeper not the nanny. Brian and I try to be careful about not giving her extra responsibilities.”

“Well I just wanted to be sure Brian’s nephews had taken Gus off somewhere on their own.”

Alice spoke up. “John is a very responsible young man. He would be more than capable of looking out for Gus for an afternoon.”

“Gus is my son and I try to be very careful about who takes care of him. I’m not sure I would feel comfortable with Brian’s nephews looking after Gus.”

Alice was annoyed. “I know who Gus’s parents are. I also know that the nephews’ names are John and Peter and I know they are both very nice boys. You didn’t seem very concerned about who was looking after Gus all weekend when you were off gallivanting around Pittsburgh. I feel certain that Brian and Justin will always be sure that Gus is well taken care of.”

Lindsay turned and left the kitchen. Justin gave Alice another hug. “You are a piece of work. Promise you will never change.”

Alice rolled her eyes and shook her head. “Those two are trying their best to be a pain in the butt.”

“Alice you don’t know the half of it but don’t worry. Brian and I have the situation under control. What were you thinking about for dinner?”

“I was thinking Lasagna.”

“Isn’t that kind of ambitious to start this late in the day?”

Alice chuckled. “There are a couple pans of lasagna in the pantry freezer. We just need to defrost them a little and add some sauce which is on the pantry shelf. Then we can pop them in the oven for an hour and a half or so.”

Justin was laughing to himself as he took the frozen lasagna out to defrost before he went up the backstairs on his way to change his clothes.

After changing he was coming downstairs when the front door burst open and Gus rushed into the house.

“Hi Papa! We had such a good time bowling and Grandmom Jen bought us hot dogs and onion rings and we had soda and some milk duds too. Cousin John helped me bowl so I didn’t hit the bumpers with my bowling ball as much as I did at first. Cousin John knows a lot about bowling, he helped Grandmom Jen too. He knocked down all the pins a lot and it was so cool.”

Justin smiled at the little boy obviously on a sugar high. Jenifer and the nephews came inside, all of them smiling at Gus’s antics. Lindsay came down the steps.

“Mommy, I’m happy to see you. I had a really good time bowling. Grandmom Jen said she will take us again another time. Want to go swimming Mommy? I haven’t been in the swimming pool yet today.”

Lindsay laughed. “So sweetie did you have some candy at the bowling alley?”

“Yes Mommy and soda but that was all before we left the bowling place. I can go in the pool now and not get any camps.” Lindsay smiled. “Cramps sweetie not camps.”

Lindsay took Gus upstairs so they could put on their bathing suits. John and Peter were clearly very amused by their cousin.
“Wow he sure has a lot of energy. I thought he would be tired out from bowling. He keeps calling me “Cousin” John. I told him he should just call me John.”

Jennifer smiled. “Gus is on what we call a sugar high from the candy you and Peter kept giving him. He’ll crash soon, probably take a nap before dinner. I think Gus thinks that “Cousin” is a title like “Uncle”. He never had cousins before.”

“We are having Lasagna for dinner Mom. Do you want to stay?”

“That sounds lovely honey.”

Why don’t you call Tucker and see if he wants to come over for dinner?”

Jennifer gave her son a raised eyebrow look but did call and invite Tucker who was happy to accept.

“Mom why don’t you come up to the studio. I want to show you some of the stuff I’m going to use in my August show.”

Jennifer gave Justin another raised eyebrow look but followed him up to the studio. Once they were behind closed doors Justin told his mother what had happened at the meeting with Lindsay and Melanie. He asked her to have a contractor go over to the loft to give an estimate on putting up the temporary bedrooms.

As they came out of the studio, Charlie was coming down the stairs. “I just fastened two of the third floor beds together. Alice said Linda and Scott are going to sleep up there while they are here.”

Charlie continued down. Justin took his mother to the storage closet by the master bedroom to get king sized sheets and mattress cover. They went up and made the bed and put fresh towels in the bathroom.

When they went back down to the kitchen, John & Peter were sitting in the kitchen talking with Alice. Justin smiled. “It’s such a nice afternoon I thought you guys would be as anxious to hit the pool as Gus was.”

John shrugged. “We thought maybe Lindsay wouldn’t want us to be out there with them.”

Justin’s smile disappeared. “This is your home! You can use the pool whenever you want regardless of who else might be swimming.”

An encouraged John & Peter headed upstairs to change. Jennifer gave her a son “a look”. “I’m have a suit out in the pool house. I’m going to soak in the hot tub for a while.”

Justin looked over at Alice. “Between you and my mother poor Lindsay better get over her nephew issue if she knows what’s good for her. By the way Mom and I made up the bed for Linda and Scott. I opened the windows to air out the room and we put extra fresh towels in the bathroom.”

“You know you didn’t have to do that. I was going to get to that.”

“Try and remember who the boss is, I can do whatever I want. You are busy making barbeque food. I am also going to make a salad to go with the lasagna so don’t even try and stop me.”

“Yes sir, whatever you say sir.” John and Peter coming back downstairs in their bathing suit overheard Alice and they gave Justin and Alice strange looks as they headed out to the pool.

Justin and Alice waited until the nephews were outside before laughing.

A few minutes later Brian came through the garage door. Justin hurried over to give him a hug and kiss hello. “You’re home early. That is always a good thing!”

Brian smirked. “You two look like you are up to something. What’s going on?”

Justin and Alice both did their best to look innocent. “Nothing going on Brian. I was just going to start to chop up some salad fixings.”

“Wait a couple minutes until I say hello to Gus and change and I’ll help with the chopping.”

Gus spotted his father as soon as he came out of the house. “Hi Daddy! I went bowling today and it was so much fun. Are you going to swim with me?”

“Hey Sonny Boy, I’m glad you had fun today with Grandmom Jen and your cousins. You swim with Mommy and Mama. I have to help Papa make a salad for dinner.”

“Okay Daddy, maybe we’ll swim later. I love you.”

“I love you too Sonny Boy.” Brian had a huge smile on his face as he headed back into the house to change his clothes.

Melanie snorted. “Brian Kinney is going to help make a salad. More like he is hoping to distract Justin and sneak off with him somewhere.”

Gus looked puzzled and an annoyed Peter spoke up. “Uncle Brian helps out Uncle Justin in the kitchen lots of times. I don’t think it is very nice to talk about his father in front of Gus.”

Before Melanie could say anything, Jennifer had something to add. “I agree with you Peter. Really Melanie you should try opening your eyes and see the Brian of today instead of the Brian of the past.”

Lindsay and Melanie exchanged a look but neither had anything else to say. They switched their attention to Gus and the game of water ring toss they were playing. Jennifer rolled her eyes at John & Peter who giggled.

Back inside Justin was gathering salad ingredients and chatting with Alice when the doorbell rang. Justin went to answer and opened the front door for Tucker who was holding a bottle of wine.

“Hi Justin. Thanks for inviting me for dinner.”

Justin took the bottle of wine and smiled. “I’m glad you could come. Thanks for the wine but you didn’t need to bring anything. Family is allowed to just bring themselves.”

A surprised Tucker smiled in return. “Mom s soaking the hot tub. I’m sure she’ll be happy you’re here.”

A casually dressed Brian was coming down the stairs and said hello to Tucker. The three men made their way to the kitchen and Tucker continued out to the pool. Jennifer was indeed happy to see him. Tucker took his wallet and keys out of his board shorts pocket, kicked off his flip flops, pulled off his polo and settled into the hot tub with Jennifer.

Justin observing from the kitchen groaned just a little which made Alice and Brian laugh.

Brian was assembling the salad while Justin spread tomato sauce on the lasagna and loaded it into the oven when Melanie came to the door. “Brian, Gus just crashed from his high. Would you carry him upstairs to his room for a nap?”

Brian happily went out picked up a sleeping Gus from a lounger and took him to his room. He changed his son into dry clothes and laid him in bed without Gus ever waking up.

When Brian took Gus upstairs, Jennifer got out of the hot tub, put on a cover up and went into the kitchen. “Honey I’m just checking to see if you need any help now that your assistant has been called away.”

“I think I’m okay Mom but thanks. Are you picking up Molly at the airport tomorrow?”

“I have an appointment and so does Tucker but he is trying to change his so he can pick her up. If not she can take a cab.”

“I’ll just call our car service and see if they can pick her up.” “You don’t have to do that.”

Justin shook his head and made the call on his cell. “All arranged. I even texted Molly to let her know.”

Jennifer gave her son a kiss on the cheek. “Thanks honey. You need to be sure and turn down any request from Molly to stay here. Linda and Scott don’t need to be sharing a bathroom while they are here.”

Justin chuckled. “I am not the person Molly will be asking to stay here, that would be Brian!”

“Well tell Brian I will be annoyed if he lets Molly stay here while Linda and Scott are visiting. There is no reason she can’t stay at my townhouse. She does have a bedroom there.”

Meanwhile outside; as soon as Jennifer had gone in the house Lindsay had turned to John & Peter. “You boys need to be more careful about giving Gus too much candy. You can see how hyper it made him.”

The nephews looked annoyed but didn’t say anything. Tucker was annoyed and did say something. “Lindsay I think it is inappropriate for you to start in on the boys just because Jennifer went in the house. I don’t see that much of Gus but today was not the first time I’ve seen him act hyper. I don’t think the occasional overdose of candy is really going to do any harm to a seven year old boy.”

Melanie looked uncomfortable but Lindsay answered Tucker. “I don’t really think this is any of your business. I am just trying to make the boys understand the consequence of their actions.”

Tucker nodded. “You’re correct it really isn’t any of my business. But if I walk into the kitchen and let Justin and Jennifer know that you are giving John and Peter a hard time I’m pretty sure you’ll find out, in no uncertain terms, that commenting on the boys’ behavior is none of your business.”

Lindsay got out of the pool. “I’m going to go change my clothes for dinner.”

Tucker smiled. “Good idea! While you’re at it I suggest you change your attitude as well.”

Lindsay didn’t say anything but Melanie gave Tucker an apologetic smile as she followed her wife into the house.

Lindsay told Justin and Jennifer she was going upstairs to change. Melanie asked if they needed any help and when they said no she followed Lindsay upstairs.

Justin and Jenifer looked at each other and shrugged. They went outside and Jennifer asked. “What’s up with those two?”

Tucker gave her a big smile. “They said they were going to change. I suggested they might want to change their attitudes.”
Jennifer smiled. “Good for you.”

Brian met the girls outside Gus’s bedroom. Lindsay said to him. “Mel and I are going out for dinner.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea. I think we should all sit down and have a pleasant meal for Gus’s sake.”

“Well Melanie and I are going out.”

Brian got very close and spoke very softly. “You are not going out to dinner. You are going to take that sourpuss expression off your face and replace it with a fucking smile. You are going to get over whatever issue you have with my nephews and you will be pleasant to them. I am so fucking sick of your rotten attitude and I want it to stop. All of your recent problems were caused by you so there is no reason for you to be a fucking bitch to anyone in this house.”

He nodded at Melanie and went downstairs.

Gus woke up from his nap about an hour later and amazingly dinner was pleasant with lots of smiles and laughter. Lindsay was on her best behavior.

After everyone was done eating, Jennifer stood up. “Well Lindsay and Melanie, I think we ladies should be on clean up duty. John and Peter can carry everything into the kitchen for us. Brian and Justin you haven’t spent much fun time with Gus today so you boys should go swimming.”

Tucker put his arm around Jennifer’s waist. “Do I get a job honey?” Jennifer smiled. “You’re a guest so you just get to relax.”

Tucker smiled. “Justin told me earlier that I wasn’t a guest, I was family.”

Jennifer turned her head to look at her son. Justin shrugged and was a little embarrassed to see his mother’s eyes fill with tears.

Brian draped an arm around Tucker’s shoulders. “You are going to have to consider if that is a good thing or a bad thing. This is a pretty unusual family.” Everyone laughed which saved the moment from becoming too emotional.

Jennifer and Tucker left after clean up. The nephews retired to the media room for video games. Melanie and Lindsay sat on the patio sipping wine while Brian and Justin did their utmost to tire out Gus. There were swimming races, Gus retrieving rings, from the ring toss game, that Brian tossed into the deep end.

Gus had a wonderful time and within an hour he was ready for a snack and bed. Brian helped him with his bath and Justin read him a story. Gus lasted a whole chapter until his eyes closed and he was asleep.

Melanie and Lindsay were still enjoying the summer night outside, so Brian gave John the job and being sure the house was locked up and setting the alarm.

In an attempt to counteract the annoyances and frustrations of the day, Justin heated some oils and gave Brian a massage. This led to a prolonged and enjoyable session of lovemaking which helped remove any bad feelings about their day.

************************************************************************************

The next morning everyone was having breakfast when Emmett swept into the kitchen. Attired in peacock blue pants and a hot pink shirt with bright yellow flowers. Emmett grabbed Alice and danced her across the room, asking her when she was going to leave her dull suburban life and come work with him planning the best parties in Pittsburgh.

Gus was excited to see his “Auntie Em” who swept him out of his chair. “My goodness Gus! You have gotten so big I hardly recognized you!” Gus giggled and hugged Emmett around his neck. “I had a growed splurt. Are you going to go swimming in the pool with me?”

“Darling I wish I could but Auntie Em is here to work. I have to get everything ready for Daddy’s big party tomorrow. Everyone’s good time is resting on my shoulders, there is much work to be done.”

“I can help you Auntie Em so you don’t have to work so hard.” “Darling boy! How wonderful, you can be my assistant. Together we will plan the best fourth of July barbeque that has ever been.”

John and Peter sat wide eyed, they had never seen anyone quite like Emmett. With Gus still in his arms Emmett turned his attention to the boys. “Who are these handsome young men?”

Gus giggled. “These are my cousins, John and Peter.”

Brian growled. “Honeycutt, tone it down a couple notches you are frightening my nephews.”

Justin laughed at his friend’s antics. “John and Peter this is Emmett. He is harmless and he is also the premier party planner of the Pittsburgh area. He will be flitting around here for the next couple days insuring that everything will go smoothly.”

The doorbell rang and Emmett told Gus. “There is our first task of the day summoning us to our labors.” He pulled a clipboard with a think pack of papers out of his gold lame shoulder bag. He handed it to Gus. “Sweetie as my assistant your first job is to carry the clipboard which has all the information we need for our party planning. Guard it with your life.”

Emmett put Gus down handed him the clipboard and headed for the front door. A very serious Gus followed quickly behind him, feeling very important.

Lindsay and Melanie both laughed. Lindsay observed that Emmett had not changed.

Brian smirked. “I don’t think anything or anybody will ever change Emmett.”

Justin smiled. “He is unique and wonderful and an amazing event planner. His calendar is booked months ahead.”

The first people Emmett and his assistant had to deal with were the men who would lay down a wood floor over part of the backyard. Emmett told the foreman to meet him in the back of the house. When he and Gus got out on the patio Emmett turned to his assistant. “Gus I need a drawing from those papers. It is a drawing of the patio and back yard and shows where the floor needs to be put.”

Gus sat on the ground and paged through the papers until he found the drawing. “Here it is Auntie Em.”

Emmett gave the boy a huge smile. “Thanks sweetie, you are already a big help.” Emmett showed the plan to the foreman and told him he would check back with him to see how things were progressing.

Lindsay came to the door and let Emmett know someone else was at the front door looking for him. When he and Gus got inside, Lindsay looked down at her son. “Honey, why don’t you give Emmett his papers. He has a lot of work to do. Mama and I will take you in the pool.”

Gus shook his head. “I have to help Auntie Em make Daddy’s party the best. He needs me!”

Emmett put his hand on Gus’s shoulder. “It’s okay if you want to go swimming. I understand.”

“No Auntie Em I want to help you.I want my Daddy’s party to be the best.” Emmett smiled at Lindsay. “Looks like I have a very loyal assistant.”

Lindsay started to argue but Melanie came over to the group. “Linds, Gus is enjoying himself and Emmett seems happy with his assistance. Let it go.”

Emmett started towards the front door a delighted Gus right on his heels. Emmett and his assistant dealt with deliveries and workmen all morning. Gus proudly produced any papers that Emmett requested and crossed things off the “to do” list when Emmett told him a task was completed.

After they were done breakfast, John and Peter got the job of peeling hard boiled eggs for Alice to make deviled eggs.

At lunch a proud Gus told Alice all about what he and Emmett had been doing all morning. Emmett assured him the hardest part was over and Gus could take the afternoon off but Gus was determined to continue. He was happy to be helping Auntie Em and thrilled to be helping his Daddy.

Brian came home from Kinnetik early in the afternoon. He watched Gus trot after Emmett carrying the clipboard with a much reduced group of papers. He went outside and Gus came running over to him. Brian picked up his son who gave him a kiss.

“Daddy. Auntie Em and I have been busy all day.I have been helping him be sure your party is the very best one. Auntie Em says he couldn’t have done it without my help.”

“Wow Sonny Boy that is really great. I am really proud of you. Thank you for working so hard.”

Gus wrapped his arms around his father’s neck. “I love you Daddy, I want you to have the best party.”

Brian had to clear his throat to get rid of the lump before he could speak. He gave Gus a kiss. “I love you too Sonny Boy.”

Gus was ready to go back to work so he asked his father to put him down and hurried over to Emmett. Together the party planner and his assistant checked out the wood floor, making sure it was sturdy and no screws were sticking up before the carpet was put down. Gus was thrilled when he found a screw that was not flat to the wood.

Brian watching from the patio beamed with pride. Emmett looked over at him with a big smile and gave him a thumbs up.

Justin had spent the morning in the studio doing a little painting but mostly watching Emmett and his assistant at work from the studio windows. He came downstairs, stood beside Brian and put his arm around his waist. Brian leaned over and gave him a kiss on the top of his head.

Justin gave Brian a sunshine smile. “Gus has worked with Emmett all day. Lindsay tried to temp him with the pool but he is determined the make his Daddy’s party the best and Emmett has been telling Gus that he couldn’t do it without his help. Gus is really thrilled to be helping.”

Justin looked up into Brian’s watery eyes. Brian smiled when he replied. “He’s a great kid.”

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 35

Justin dropped his swimsuit onto the floor as soon as he got in the bedroom and led the way into the bathroom and shower. Brian followed closely behind him. Brian leaned down to kiss Justin. After the kiss ended Justin worked his way down to Brian’s cock which he licked before taking it into his mouth. A few minutes later Brian groaned and unloaded into his lover’s mouth. Justin stood up and he and Brian kissed again. When Justin reached down he felt Brian already hardening again. Justin took the lube off the shower shelf and squeezed some on his hand. He stroked Brian’s cock until it was completely hard, he grabbed a condom off the shelf quickly ripped it open and pulled it over Brian’s cock. Then Justin reached back and lubed himself. Brian kissed Justin again before Justin turned towards the wall of the shower. Brian pushed in slowly as Justin pushed back against him. “Harder Brian, I need it fast and hard.”

Brian was happy to comply and as he drove into Justin he reached around and grabbed his cock and stroked it. In short time Justin gasped when he came against the tile wall of the shower. Justin clamped down as Brian groaned and came. They washed each other in the shower and then went into the bedroom and lay entwined on their bed.

Justin gave a contented sigh. “Gus will be waking up soon. We should get dressed and go back downstairs.”

“In a minute Sunshine. Greg talked to me today about the nephews’ school plans. He mentioned Washington Academy as a possibility. Patrick goes there.”

“Josh goes there also. I’ve looked at their web site and it could be a good choice for the boys. I’m not sure our school district would be a really good option. The only thing is that Washington Academy is pretty expensive. I know you wanted us to watch our expenses right now.”

Brian snorted. “Justin you know that we can afford whatever this school costs. If we have to dip into saving for a short time that is not a huge deal.”

Justin smiled and gave Brian a quick kiss before he got up and started to dress. “We should talk this over with John and Peter and see what they think about schools.”

Brian nodded, once they were both dressed they went down and woke up Gus from his nap. Peter was still floating and reading but John was now occupying the lounger next to Gus.

Gus wanted to play with his remote control car so everyone headed to the tennis court with the three remote control cars. Eventually Brian announced he was calling to order pizza for dinner.

Brian shook his head as he walked towards the house. He could hear the shouts and laughter from the tennis court. He could hardly believe how much he had enjoyed this entire day when only a very small part of the day had involved sex with Justin.

Justin called Emmett to see if he wanted to meet him for lunch the next day. Emmett said that he was already meeting Ted and Blake so Justin should join them. Justin was relieved that he would not have to sit alone and observe the lunch meeting between Claire and her sons.

*************************************************************************************

The next morning Gus requested Eggs McMuffins for breakfast. Brian was truly horrified and refused to participate. Justin, Gus, John & Peter headed out to McDonalds while Brian stayed home with his coffee, dry wheat toast and the Sunday paper.

Justin and his three charges enjoyed their fast food breakfast. Justin convinced Gus to take a hash brown home to Brian. When they got back home Gus spotted his father out on the patio and with a smile at his co-conspirators he hurried outside. “Hi Daddy, we had a good time with Papa and I brought you home something for your breakfast.”

Brian took the bag from his smiling son and removed the hash brown which he held in his hand with a look of pure disgust on his face.

“Don’t you want it Daddy? I brought it home just for you.”

Brian was torn, he never wanted to disappoint his son but was not inclined to ever eat fast food. He glanced towards the house and saw his partner and nephews all looking out the door and laughing. Brian grabbed Gus and lifted him into his lap. “Sonny Boy are you trying to trick your old man?”

Gus started to giggle and squirmed to get off his father’s lap. Brian kept a firm hold on his son and started to tickle him. Gus shrieked with laughter and renewed his efforts to escape. A laughing Justin came out of the house, he came over and took hold of Brian’s arm which allowed Gus to escape. Justin sensed that Gus’s escape was too easy. Once Gus was clear, Brian pulled Justin on to his lap and started to tickle him around his waist, which Brian knew was his partner’s most vulnerable area.

Justin struggled to get away, the nephews stayed safely inside and Gus was still laughing and staying a safe distance from his Daddy. Suddenly Brian put his arms around his lover and pulled him in for a passionate kiss. When they broke apart Brian grabbed the hash brown. “Now you have to eat this Sunshine.”

Justin took the offered food and crammed the whole thing in his mouth. He whispered in Brian’s ear. “Yummy, might be my second favorite thing to put in my mouth.”

Brian laughed and gave Justin another hug but he waited until Justin had chewed and swallowed the entire hash brown before he kissed him. Gus came over to his fathers. “Daddy you are so silly sometimes.”

Brian pulled Gus in between Justin and himself. “Well Gus you were pretty silly yourself thinking I would eat that hash brown.”

Gus decided it was time to go swimming so he went upstairs to change. Brian put on a swimsuit in the pool house and was ready to go in the pool when his son returned.

Justin put together a casserole he could cook for dinner while John & Peter headed to the media room to play some video games.

Eventually Justin came out to the pool and let Brian know they were leaving. Gus asked where he was going. Justin left Brian to explain the situation to Gus. John and Peter were waiting in the car.

It was a quiet ride into the city. When Justin parked outside the diner; he turned to his nephews. “Guys, I really hope you have a good lunch with your mother. I hope you can make her understand how you feel and that she finally starts to understand and accept responsibility. I believe you will all be happier if that happens. You know that Uncle Brian and I are 1,000 percent on your side. At any point if you need me all you have to do is raise your arm and I’ll be there.”

Justin, John & Peter were the first to arrive for lunch. Debbie had two booths set aside for them. Close to the front door she had a booth for Justin and his friends. Further back in the diner she had a booth for John & Peter to meet their mother.

Justin sat with his back to the door so he could see the nephews who sat facing the door. Debbie brought all three of them her special chocolate milk shakes.

Emmett was next to arrive. He waved to John & Peter before giving Justin a hug and kiss on the cheek. Emmett slid into the booth so Justin could sit on the aisle.

Ted and Blake arrived a couple minutes later. The four friends ordered lunch and chatted as they waited for Claire to arrive. Justin checked his watch every couple minutes. Finally around 12:15 Ted announced. “Claire just got out of a car out front.”

Justin was surprised. “Was Joan driving?”

“Nope. It was a guy.”

Justin stood up in the aisle as Claire came through the door. “Hello Claire.”

“Hello. So no Brian again. Is my brother afraid of me?”

Something about Claire just seemed off to Justin. She seemed nervous and kept glancing around the diner.

“Not afraid, he just doesn’t like you very much. Since Gus is visiting us and Brian really likes his son he stayed home with him.”
Justin pointedly looked at his watch. “Your sons are waiting for you!”

Claire brushed past Justin who rejoined his friends. Emmett gave him a hug. “That was awesome baby.”

“I know she can’t help herself. Joan is such a horrible person that no one could have come out of that house unscathed.”

Justin glanced down the aisle. Claire seemed to have a little trouble walking. Peter had gotten out of the booth to hug his mother.
John remained seated with a perfect “no emotion” Kinney face that even Brian could not have done better.

Justin shook his head. “I think she might be drunk or high. She just seems off somehow.”

Blake nodded. “I can’t be sure but her eyes seemed kind of unfocused.” He smiled. “I do have some experience with drug addicts and I think Claire is high on something.”
Justin cursed and looked anxiously at the booth where Claire was sitting with John & Peter.

Claire glanced at the mostly consumed milk shakes in front of her sons. “Looks like you boys started without me.”

John answered. “Uncle Justin got us here early so we have been here for a while. We didn’t order the milkshakes Debbie just brought them over to us.”

Claire frowned. “Can I just ask that we skip the “Uncle” Justin while we are talking.”

Peter frowned back at his mother. “Of course you can ask but UNCLE Justin has been amazing to both me and John. That is what we call him and you just have to deal with that.”

Claire was shocked at Peter being so forceful but before she could respond Debbie came over to get their orders. “Hello Claire. It’s been some time since I’ve seen you. What can I bring you?”

“Hello Mrs Novotny. I’ll just have a grilled cheese and some ice water.” Claire was a little unnerved by how intensely Debbie was looking at her. After a few moments Debbie shifted her gaze to the boys and took their lunch orders.

After delivering the order to the kitchen. Debbie made her way through the diner; giving out lunch checks, refilling drinks and talking with regular patrons. She made her way slowly to the booth where Justin was sitting. “Sunshine, that bitch is on something. She came to fucking lunch with her sons fucking high.”

“I know Deb, we could tell. She is a piece of work but I guess she was nervous about seeing the boys.”

Claire was trying to change the attitude in the booth with her sons. “John, Peter told me you won your soccer game yesterday. That’s great, I guess we should celebrate today.”

“We all had a fun at the game yesterday. Cynthia, the office manager at Kinnetik, and Grandmom Jen arranged a refreshment table for our first game. Since Kinnetik is our team sponsor Uncle Brian had the company pay for the refreshments for both teams.”

“Did Brian go to the game?

“Of course Uncle Brian and Uncle Justin both came along with Gus. After the game my friend Patrick came over to the house for a barbeque with his parents and little brother. Uncle Justin, Peter and I beat Patrick, his Dad and Grandmom Jen’s boyfriend, Tucker, at pool volleyball. Uncle Justin is ruthless at pool volleyball, it’s pretty funny. It annoys Uncle Brian every time Uncle Justin beats him.”

John and Peter chuckled but Claire was not amused. “Is every conversation we have going to center around Brian and his friend.”

John sighed. “Mother you asked if Uncle Brian went to my game. We also live in Uncle Brian and Uncle Justin’s house. They are involved in our lives so their names are going to come up in stories we tell you about our lives.”

“Its Brian house that you are living in.”

Debbie delivered their food, interrupting John’s reply. When she walked away John took a bite of his burger before replying to his mother. “Everything belongs to both of them. The house, Kinnetik and all the profits from Uncle Justin’s art.”

“Why would Brian ever do that?”

Peter shrugged his shoulders. “Maybe because they love each other. Really Mom if Justin was a woman you wouldn’t see anything wrong with the Uncles’ arrangement.”

“This is why you shouldn’t be living in that environment. Your morals are being corrupted. You went into that house as innocent boys and now you are viewing your Uncle’s perverted lifestyle as normal.”

John glared at his mother. “I kind of think our morals started to get corrupted when our mother started having sex with a drug addled pervert, that she didn’t even like, just so he would share his drugs with her.”

Claire flushed with embarrassment. "I was fond of Paul and he was not a pervert.”

“And we probably lost some innocence when our mother made us move into the drug addled pervert’s house. Once we lived there we got to observe our mother and the drug addled pervert making out in the living room and occasionally being too high to move or talk coherently. As an added bonus the drug addled pervert came into the bathroom to look at us when we took showers.”

“John I am trying to do the best I can for you. I don’t have a lot of money like Brian but I do have a place for us all to stay. We can be a family again.”

Peter reached across the table and took his mother’s hand. “Mother, as long as I can remember you complained about having to grow up with Grandmother. You told us again and again how we should be glad we never had to live with her. Now you want us to think that being jammed together into Uncle’s Brian’s old room in Grandmother’s house is a good plan.”

“But you wouldn’t be under my mother’s care, I would be there to take care of you.”

John snorted which earned him a dirty look from his brother. Peter tried again to make his mother see reason. “Mom, you have to understand how we feel. You really didn’t do a good job of looking after us when we lived with Paul. So now we have concerns about you running interference with Grandmother.”

“What happened at Paul’s house wasn’t my fault. The drugs clouded my thinking.I didn’t really understand what was going on.”

John shook his head and glared at his mother. “All we ever hear from you is that it wasn’t your fault. You decided to take drugs and you decided to get involved with Paul but Peter and I were the ones who paid the price for your actions.”

“I’m really sorry you had to go through that difficult time.”

“Mother you say that like we had the measles or something that you had no control over. It was YOUR decisions that caused us to be hungry, broke and feel afraid. You WERE responsible and you never accept responsibility for your bad decisions.”

Claire started to cry. “Peter is that what you think too.”

Peter looked sad. “It was your fault Mother. You were supposed to take care of us and you didn’t do that. We do not want to live with Grandmother. John and I feel happy and safe with Uncle Justin and Uncle Brian. You should be grateful to them and you should be trying to get your life on track.”

“I spent my whole life sacrificing for you and this is how you treat me. I can’t help what I did when I was on drugs. You are both being very unfair and hurtful.”

Peter just looked sad and didn’t say anything. John looked at his mother. “Do you really think that we can’t tell that you are high right now? We have had plenty of experience spotting it.”

Claire looked shocked. She opened her mouth but nothing came out. Her sons sat looking at her. Peter continued to look sad and John looked disgusted & angry.

Claire slid out of the booth and ran out of the diner. Justin hurried down to the booth where John & Peter were sitting and eating their sandwiches. “What happened?”

Peter swallowed what was in his mouth. “Mom was on something and still so delusional and so unwilling to accept any responsibility and when we called her on it she left.”

“Are you guys okay?”

Peter shrugged. “This sucks but we really aren’t surprised. The good news is that at least now we have a safe place to stay and we don’t need to depend on her anymore.”

Justin nodded. “Okay, finish your lunch and we’ll head home.”

*************************************************************************************

Claire hurried away from the diner, afraid that someone would follow her out. Her friend, Tino, told her he would meet her at a parking lot a few blocks from the diner. Claire was relieved when she saw Tino was already there. He was talking with another man when Claire walked up to him.

Tino was a tall, heavyset middle aged man who was Claire’s current source for drugs. He put his arm around her waist as she stood next to him. “Hi Baby. Your lunch didn’t last very long. This is my friend Sarcus.”

Claire shook Sarcus’s offered hand. “My sons’ have been completely brainwashed by my brother and his boyfriend. They were really cruel to me and blame me for everything. It was awful, I finally just had to run out of the diner. I really need something to take the edge off.”

“Oh baby, I’m sorry. I’ve been busy. I sold everything I had. Sarcus still has some Oxy, if you’re interested.”

Sarcus help up a small plastic bag with about 20 pills in it. Claire frowned. “How much?”
“Since you are a friend of Tino’s a hundred bucks.”

“I don’t have a hundred bucks.”

“Tino says you have some skills that could take the place of cold hard cash. How about it, your skills for my pills?”

Claire gave Tino a dirty look. “Come on Baby. It’s a little late to be playing the innocent virgin. I met you through Paul. You’ve been using your skills for a while now.”

“Paul and I cared about each other. We were sharing our lives.”

“Baby, Paul didn’t give a shit about you. It was those two little twink sons of yours that sealed the deal of letting you move in. You’re lucky Paul OD’ed before he worked up the nerve to do more than just watch them.”

Claire was horrified. “That’s not true! You’re lieing.”

“Baby why would I lie? Paul was a truly sick ticket. You had to know what was going on.”

Claire shook her head. She tried to wrap her head around the fact that John & Peter were right about Paul spying on them in the shower. Her head started to throb.
“Hey baby, Sarcus and I have some business to attend to this afternoon. How about I give you a ride home, you can sit in the back seat with Sarcus.”

Claire looked at Sarcus. He resembled a dirty Santa Claus and he smelled kind of gross. Her head hurt so badly that she had trouble actually focusing her eyes. She had to have those pills. She gave a quick nod of her head and walked over to Tino’s car and got into the back seat.

Sarcus got in the other side of the car. He pulled down his pants and boxers, entwined his fingers in Claire’s hair and pulled her face down into his lap.

Twenty minutes later Tino pulled into an alley behind some stores a few blocks from Joan’s house. Claire got out of the car, a bag of pills clutched in one hand and her purse in the other. She bent over and vomited. Sarcus moved to the front seat and Tino drove off.
Claire wiped her mouth with some tissues and used a mirror from her purse to fix her lipstick and brush her hair. She walked to her mother’s house and used the key to let herself in the front door. Joan was sitting in her chair. A glass on the table beside her.
“So how was lunch with your sons?”

“It was horrible. Brian and Justin have completely turned them against me. Peter told me they feel happy and safe living with Brian and Justin.”

“Drugs have caused all your problems Claire. You were weak and turned to drugs and now look at the mess you have made of your life.”

Claire walked over picked up the glass beside her mother and took a swallow. As she knew, the glass was filled with vodka. “Gee Mother I wonder where I learned how to escape from my crappy life.”

“Don’t compare my life to yours. I kept my family together.”

“You should write a book about your successful life Mother. How you got yourself knocked up by an abusive drunk who resented you for the rest of his life. Yes, you kept your family together at the expense of your children's emotional and physical health.”

Joan stood up and slapped Claire across the face. Claire shoved her mother back into her chair. “Learned that from Daddy, did you? Just sit there and get shitfaced like every other night of your miserable life. I’m going to my room.”

Claire went up the stairs as Joan took a big swallow from her glass.

**********************************************************************************

On the ride home John and Peter brought Justin up to date on their conversation with Claire. Justin was surprised that the boy were taking it as well as they were. Of course Justin mother experience was very different than his nephews’ mother experience.

John asked him. “Are you going to call Kathy Sacks and let her know about this visit with Mother?”

“Do you want me to call her?”

“Yes! Mother or Grandmother will probably be calling her with their version of our meeting. Also she should know that mother is still taking drugs.”

“We don’t really have any proof that Claire was on drugs.”

Peter spoke up from the back seat. “Uncle Justin we all know that Mother was on something. They can ask her to come in for a drug test.”

Justin nodded. “I will call her tomorrow and let her know how badly the meeting went and that we all felt that Claire was on something.”

Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad

Chapter 36

When they got home,they found Brian playing a card game with Gus on the patio. The smile on Brian’s face was canceled out by the horrified expression in his eyes. Luckily Gus was too involved in the game to notice. Justin actually chuckled when he first saw Brian, who happily threw in his cards.

Gus ran over to give his Papa a hug. Turning to John & Peter he asked. “Did you have a nice lunch with your mommy?”

John smiled at his little cousin and lied. “It was fine Gus.”

Brian looked over at Justin who rolled his eyes, conveying that lunch had not been all that great. Brian came over to Gus. “Hey Sonny Boy, how about you watch a video while Papa and I have a talk with your cousins.”

Gus happily agreed and hurried to the media room with his father following him. Gus checked through the extensive DVD collection and picked the one he wanted to see. As Brian loaded it and adjusted the TV, Justin came in with a small bag of pretzels and a bottle of water. “Here you are little man. If you need anything we will be in the study.”

Gus settled into the huge sectional sofa. Brian handed him the remote and gave him a kiss on the top of his head.

John & Peter waited in the study looking kind of nervous. Their uncles came in the room and shut the door. Brian asked what happened at lunch and John let him know what happened at the diner. Brian shook his head. “My sister never ceases to amaze me.”

The boy smiled half-heartedly unsure where this conversation was going. Brian looked at Justin who shrugged. So Brian continued. “When you guys came here none of us knew how long we would be together. Justin and I have been discussing something over the past couple days and we thought we should talk it over with you before making any decisions.”

John was looking angry and Peter looked like he was ready to cry. Justin & Brian exchanged puzzled looks. Justin decided to chime in on the conversation. “Especially after today it appears that it is going to be quite a while before your mother can resume custody. So we really need to start thinking about where you will go to school.”

John & Peter looked at each other and started to laugh. Justin asked them. “What is so funny about school?”

John was shaking his head. “We thought you were going to tell us that you didn’t want us to stay here any longer.”

Justin made an agonized noise and his eyes filled with tears. “Oh my God!”

Brain sitting beside Justin on the couch put his arm around him and pulled him close. “For fuck’s sake how can you say that to us? We have done everything to try and make you feel at home here. Now you turn around and say you expected us to tell you to get out.”

John came over and kneelt in front of his uncles. “I’m sorry, we both appreciate everything you have done but nothing in our life is permanent. Every time Mother does something stupid, Peter and I think is this the time the Uncles have had enough. Even if you guys are okay with us being here there are people from the state who have control over our lives.

Every day we worry that someone will knock on the door and say we can’t stay here anymore. I really don’t want to hurt your feeling or appear ungrateful but Peter and I just wish something in our life was permanent.”

Justin had tears running down his face. “I am so sorry. I guess we don’t understand how you are feeling. From our perspective we see things as kind of settled and we didn’t think about things from your perspective. I’m sorry. “

Brian kept hold of Justin. “We’ll meet with our attorney this week and see what we can do about making your life have some permanence. I think we can all agree that Claire is not going to get her life on order for a long time. We need to work on a way to prevent Claire or Joan interfering in your lives.”

A surprised, but very pleased Justin, gave Brian a kiss followed by a huge smile. “So how about we try discussing schools. Uncle Brian and I were thinking about Washington Academy. You both have a friend who goes there. The have a very open policy and a strict no bullying policy. What do you guys think?”

John had moved back to his chair and he and Peter looked at each other. Peter spoke first. “Isn’t that school really expensive and there are two of us you’d have to pay tuition for.”

“We’ve always just gone to public school so that would be OK with us.”

Brian answered. “You weren’t living with your two homosexual uncles when you went to public school. I think that is going to make a difference.”

John nodded. “Yeah, you’re probably right about that. We could try the public schools and if it gets too difficult we could switch schools.”

Justin shook his head. “I’d rather we didn’t take that chance. Disregarding the cost what do you think about attending the Washington Academy?”

John & Peter exchanged glances again. Peter spoke this time. “We’ve heard good things from Josh and Patrick so I think we’d both be happy to go there.”

John nodded. They continued to discuss school and how to deal with the custody issue. Justin was going to look into getting the boys in the Academy and talk to Kathy Sacks about the disastrous lunch at the diner. Brian was going to contact their lawyer to see what could be done about the uncertain custody situation.

John & Peter headed upstairs to change into bathing suits. Justin headed to the kitchen to put the casserole he made earlier into the oven. Brian went to the media room where Gus was still watching his video and wanted his father to join him on the sofa.

After sticking the casserole in to cook slowly Justin headed up to his studio. He had only a few details to complete on the second PPG mural.

After the video was over Gus and his daddy joined John and Peter in the pool. When dinner time approached Brian started the charcoal and grilled some vegetables. He took the casserole out of the oven and while John & Gus set the patio table for dinner Peter was dispatched to bring Justin down form the studio.

************************************************************************************

The next morning Brian was up early with Gus. They had breakfast together and while Brian took a shower and got dressed Gus climbed into bed with his Papa.

When Brian was ready to leave he found Gus curled up against Justin and both of them were sound asleep. Brian gave Justin a quick kiss and got his normal good bye groan from his lover.

Half an hour later Justin woke up while being gently shook by a seven year old. He opened his eyes to see Gus staring into his face. “Are you going to wake up now Papa?”

Justin grabbed the boy, gave him a quick kiss and a tickle. “Yes Little Man I am awake. Did you have your breakfast?”

“Yes, I ate with Daddy. When we came upstairs so he could get ready for work I got into bed with you and fell asleep again.”

“Well let me go in the bathroom and get dressed, then we’ll go downstairs so I can get some breakfast.”

When they got down to the kitchen Alice was bustling around while John & Peter were having cereal with fruit for breakfast. Gus sat with his cousins while Justin said hello to Alice and got himself a cup of coffee. He toasted a bagel and loaded it with cream cheese. Alice put some cut up fruit in a bowl. “If you don’t want Brian to know how much cream cheese you used; you’ll eat all this fruit.”

All three boys laughed along with Justin. Gus sat across the table. “After you eat are we going to the studio Papa?”

“I have a couple phone calls I have to make so how about you watch a video or TV while I make those calls and then we’ll head up to the studio.”

Alice came over to the table. “Gus, I’m getting ready to make some oatmeal raisin cookies. How about you help me make the cookies while Justin makes his phone calls?”

Gus happily agreed. He knew he would get to taste the cookie dough and have first crack at the cookies when they came out of the oven.

Justin looked over at the nephews. “What do you guys have planned for today?”

John asked. “Can Patrick’s mother drop him off for the afternoon?”

“Sure, that’s OK but can you tactfully suggest he not stay for dinner. I think Uncle Brian has had enough company in the last week.”

John agreed. Peter was planning to swim and read his book. Once Justin was done breakfast he got a second cup of coffee and headed to the study.

He tried Kathy Sacks first and was pleasantly surprised to find her in the office. Justin brought her up to date on what happened during John & Peter’s lunch with their mother. He told her that the boys had asked him to call her and let her know they thought that Claire was taking drugs again.

“Justin, you know that there is no actual proof that Claire was on drugs so there isn’t anything I can do. We have requested drug tests from her several times and she just ignores the requests.”

“I understand. John and Peter just wanted me to call and make sure you heard their side before Claire or Joan called you. I do have a question for you. Brian and I are going to look into getting permanent custody. The boys are feeling that there life is lacking stability.”

Kathy was excited. “Justin that is great news. Of course our department doesn’t make those decisions but we would certainly give you and Brian a very positive report. You will have to go to court and John and Peter will have to testify so you all need to be prepared for that. I will note in the file that the boys felt their mother was under the influence of drugs and that she left when they confronted her.”

“Thanks Kathy. I’ll let you know what happens.”

Next Justin called the Washington Academy and made and appointment to see the Dean of Admissions on Wednesday afternoon.

When Justin got back to the kitchen, Gus was happily emptying ingredients into the mixing bowl under Alice’s supervision. “Hey Gus, ready to go up to the studio.”

“Mrs Simpson says she needs my help with the cookies. Our first batch is almost ready to come out of the oven. I am in charge of tasting them once they cool a little.”

Alice smiled at the little boy’s enthusiasm. “Gus is fine helping me Justin. Go ahead up and get some work done.”

“Okay but Gus remember no going out near the pool unless Daddy or I are with you.”

“I know Papa. When the cookies are done I’ll come up to the studio.”

*************************************************************************************

When Brian got to Kinnetik he asked Carole to set up a phone call with his lawyer for some time today or tomorrow.

He had been working at his desk for about an hour when Carole buzzed him. “Lindsay is on line 2. She says she needs to talk with you.”

Brian pushed the button for line 2. “Hey Linds. What’s up?”

“Melanie and I have been packing like mad and getting things settled up here. I need you to transfer some money to me for the movers. You haven’t told Gus about us moving back to Pittsburgh have you?”

“I haven’t said anything to Gus, we agreed we’d tell him together. I think he will be thrilled so I’m not sure why you want to wait to tell him.”

“Well it’s a big change and I just want to be sure he is not upset. Now about the money for the movers.”

“Just have the moving company call Cynthia, she’ll take care of paying them.”

There was a pause before Lindsay answered. “I think it would be easier just to transfer the money to our account.”

“Interesting to know. Since I am paying, I get to decide how the movers will be paid. Have their office call Cynthia and she will take care of all the arrangements for payment. From my perspective that will be easy for you.”

“Brian, does everything have to be done your way?”

“When it is my money paying for something, yes it has to be done my way.”

A curt good bye from Lindsay and the call was over. Brian hung up the phone and shook his head wondering if it really was such a good idea for the munchers to move back.

The rest of his morning was busy with meetings and conference calls and he managed to put the whole Lindsay situation out of his mind. Around noon Ted stopped by Brian’s office. “I’m going to walk over to the diner for lunch. Interested in going along.”

Since there were a few business issues Brian wanted to discuss with Ted he agreed to lunch. Debbie was at the other end of the diner when they went through the door but she shouted a hello, pointed out an open booth in her area and told them she would be with them in a couple minutes.

Ted sat facing the door, he and Brian were discussing Kinnetik business when Ted muttered. “Oh fuck!” Brian turned around and saw Michael coming through the door.

He turned back to Ted with a smirk. “Oh well. It’ll be fine.”

Michael spotted them and made his way over to the booth sliding in next to Brian. “Hi Guys. Brian I had a call from Lindsay this morning. She was pretty upset at the way you are treating her.”

“Mikey, I’m not sure why Lindsay would have called you but whatever is going on between her and I is really none of your business.”

“She was upset and trying to understand why you were acting the way you were and she just wanted to see what I thought. Brian, Lindsay is the mother of your son!”

“She is? Just the other day I was trying to remember where Gus had come from. I thought did a stork drop him down the chimney, did we find him in a cabbage patch or was he left in a basket on the front steps. Thank you for reminding me just where my son came from.”

Ted chuckled and Michael blushed with embarrassment. Debbie chose that moment to come over and take their orders.

After Debbie took their order and left, Brian attempted to keep the conversation on a light note. Ted was amazed to hear Brian ask about Hunter’s summer plans and business at the comic book store. Ted realized that Brian was trying not to argue with Michael but he was still surprised at Brian’s patience.

Michael was determined to bring the conversation back to Lindsay’s phone call. “Brian, Lindsay doesn’t understand why you are trying to control her life. I mean she appreciates your help but it’s not fair to treat her the way you have been.”

Debbie came up to the booth with their food. “Michael what the fuck are you talking about? Lindsay is complaining about how Brian treats her?”

“Yes Ma. She called me today and was really upset about Brian insisting on controlling their move back here.”

Debbie placed the food on the table and took a deep breath. “How is that any of your business Michael? Those girls decided to run off to fucking Canada taking Gus & JR away from their fathers. Once they got there they found out that life there was not so perfect. Both of them have told me that they depended on the support Brian sent them to get along financially. The only thing Lindsay should feel for Brian is gratitude for all his financial help.”

“Ma, this doesn’t have anything to do with support. Lindsay wanted Brian to send her the money for their move but he insisted that it be handled by Cynthia at Kinnetik. Lindsay doesn’t like her personal business being known by everyone.”

Debbie pushed Ted further into the booth so she could sit and face her son eye to eye. “As far as I can tell Lindsay is being a self-centered whining bitch! They get themselves in bad financial trouble and can’t afford to stay in Toronto so Brian and Sunshine agree to help them. They agree to pay their moving expenses and offer them a totally free place to stay here in Pittsburgh so they can get back on their feet financially. Brian has every right to want to control how HIS money is spent. After all the years Cynthia has worked for Brian she is hardly likely to suddenly start telling people his personal business.”

“It’s not like Brian doesn’t have plenty of money. Why does he have to humiliate Lindsay that way? She feels he is just trying to embarrass her.”

“She and Melanie should be down on their knees thanking Brian and Sunshine. They should be embarrassed to have let themselves get in such bad financial trouble. It doesn’t matter how much money Brian and Sunshine have. It is their money, no one gave it to them, they earned it. You should know better than most people how generous Brian is. Don’t forget who gave you the money to start your store and the support he sent to the girls has partially gone to take care of your daughter. Plenty of times when Brian or Sunshine eats here when I clear the table I find a hundred dollar bill under a dish. Of course both of them tell me they don’t know anything about it. So I know how generous they are and I’m ashamed my own son isn’t sticking up for them instead of siding with those ungrateful girls.”

Debbie stood up, gave her son a smack to the side of his head and walked away.

Michael looked a little shocked. Brian smiled. “Well Mikey I guess not everyone shares your view of how put upon poor Lindsay is. I agree with your mother that it really is none of your business so let’s just drop it.”

The tree men concentrated on their food and there was little lunch conversation. On the walk back to Kinnetik glanced over at a pensive Brian. “Debbie really seemed to be gunning for Lindsay. I was kind of surprised at how negative she seemed to be.”

Brian chuckled. “That conversation has Mother Taylor written all over it.”

“I didn’t know that Jennifer felt that way about Lindsay. They always seemed to get along okay.”

“Those “country club manners” disguise a lot of stuff. Actually I don’t think Mother Taylor cared much one way or the other about Lindsay but this last visit changed that. She was super annoyed that both Lindsay and Melanie seemed to have issues with the nephews. Justin has probably told her all about the Toronto financial issues and Mother Taylor is a tigress when she feels her son is being taken advantage of. I’m sure she has let Debbie know that she thinks the munchers are ungrateful.”

“I think Jennifer is that protective tigress for both her son and her son in law!”

Brian just smirked and shrugged his shoulders but didn’t disagree.

When Brian got back to his office Carole told him that the lawyer was going to be in the area the next day and could stop by Kinnetik for a meeting around 11 AM. Brian said to confirm the meeting. He emailed Justin to let him know about the meeting.

*************************************************************************************

When Justin broke for lunch and went down to the kitchen he discovered cookie baking was completed. Alice and her assistant has moved on to banana bread.

Alice looked over and smiled. “We had some overripe bananas and I told Gus how much his Daddy likes banana bread so we decided to make some.”

Gus has some flour on his nose and in his hair and a huge smile. “Mrs Simpson says we can surprise Daddy after dinner so don’t tell him about the special bread for him okay.”

Justin chuckled. “Your secret is safe with me little man.”

The doorbell rang and Justin went to answer. It was Molly with her latest boyfriend Mark. She gave her brother a kiss and introduced him to Mark. “We came over for a swim, hope that is okay.”

“You know you are always welcome. I was just about to have some lunch. Have you guys eaten?”

“Nope. What’s on the menu?”

“I was just going to make grilled ham and cheese sandwiches and there are some just out of the oven cookies for dessert.”

Molly glanced at Mark who nodded. “Lead on brother dear, we will be delighted to join you for lunch.”

Gus was delighted to see “Aunt Molly” when they got back to the kitchen. One of the things he liked best about staying with Daddy and Papa was there was so much “family” that he got to spend time with.

Justin told Alice he was going to make grilled sandwiches for lunch. She got the deep fryer out of the pantry and announced she would make sweet potato fries to go along with the sandwiches. Molly went over to the refrigerator and took out two beers. Her brother shook his head. “No beer for you Mollusk and I have to see Mark’s driver’s license before he gets one.”

With a dramatic sigh Molly replaced the beer and instead poured two glasses of ice tea. Alice chuckled. “Justin you got that out before I could even open my mouth. Your mother would be proud of you.”

Molly glanced over. “Justin always was a goody two shoes. That was why it was such a shock that he wouldn’t go back in the closets when he was told to.”

Mark looked a little shocked but brother and sister both laughed. “And Molly was always a problem so it was a shock when she actually graduated high school and got into college without any bribes being paid.”

Molly stuck out her tongue at Justin which made everyone even Gus laugh.

Justin had the ingredients spread out on the counter and the griddle heating up when his cell rang. He looked down and saw the call was from Sidney Bloom. “I have to take this call. I’ll be right back.”

Justin answered as he headed into the dining room and shut the door. “Hi Sidney.”

“Justin. I just finished the interview with the final candidate for our gallery manager. I’d like to get together with you and discuss how I think we should proceed.”

“That sounds good. I can stop by the gallery tomorrow. What time is good for you?”

Sidney laughed. “I am calling from my car. They have started the remodel in the basement and it is too noisy to meet here. Actually we have moved the office upstairs to one of the apartments because it is quieter on the second floor.”

“Okay. How about we meet at Kinnetik around 10 AM. Not sure which room we will be using so just ask the receptionist.”

Both men said good bye and hung up.

Justin headed back to his sandwich making. John, Peter and Patrick joined the others for lunch. Alice insisted that everyone wait half an hour before going in the pool. Molly & Mark followed the boys to the tennis court with the three remote control cars. Molly told Justin she would keep her eye on Gus so her brother returned to the studio after lunch.

When Justin called Carole to schedule a conference room for his meeting with Sidney she told him about the 11 o’clock meeting with the lawyer. A short time later there was a knock on the door and John came into the studio.

“Sorry to bother you Uncle Justin.”

Justin smiled. “I know Uncle Brian says not to bother me when I am in the studio but it really is okay.”

“You told me that Patrick could come over as long as he left before Uncle Brian got home. His Mom just called him and Kevin needed some additional tests so they are stuck at the hospital. She is going to have a neighbor come and pick him up. Could he please stay here?”

“Sure he can. He might just as well spend the night. You and Patrick can sleep in Peter’s room and he can sleep in your bed tonight. I’ll call Mrs O’Brien and let her know.”

“Thanks a lot Uncle Justin.”

Justin call Roxanne who sounded pretty frazzled. The good news was that Kevin’s test results were all good but all three O’Brien’s were worn out from an afternoon of testing and she appreciated Patrick spending the night.