FEBRUARY 2015

 

THURSDAY MORNING

 

BRIAN

 

"Fuck me it's cold!" 

 

I shiver inside my Armani coat, hoping that I don't have to be out here too long.  I agreed to help Debs with this Can You Eat This? Competition, but what I didn't agree to was having to stand outside putting up flyers.

 

"Come on Debs, can we go now?!"  I grouch.

 

"Just one more your highness and we can go."

 

I roll my eyes at her, as much as I love the woman she's working my last nerve today.  Kinnetic is sponsoring the event, whoever can eat the most gets their meals free for six months at a place of their choosing.

 

"Well open the fucking door then, I am after all a lady!"  She cackles.

 

"Thank God!"

 

I hold the door open for her and she slides in and I gallop to get in my side and head towards the diner.

 

              "How much did this baby cost you honey?" 

 

I smile at her, the baby she is referring to is a Rolls Royce Phantom in black with tan interior.

 

              "Just under $200K and..."

 

              "Brian watch out!"

 

I screech to a halt as a slim figure almost steps in front of me, I blast the horn hard and he jumps back on the kerb.

 

              "Fucking idiots why don't people look where they're going!  You okay Debs?"

 

              "Yeah honey, I'm fine.  Looks like a stiff breeze could knock him over."  She comments

 

I shrug and we head to the diner in comfortable silence.

 

DINER

 

KIKI

 

How I wish Debs was here, then she could handle her belligerent son, who's glowering at me from the other side of the diner.  Because if I go anywhere near him I shall smack him with the coffee pot.

 

              "How long is my mother going to be?"

 

              "I don't know she's putting up flyers for the competition and Brian is helping her."

 

              "Why is Brian helping her, why couldn't you do it?"  He sneers.  "After..."

 

              "Why couldn't you do it?"  A voice interrupts him

 

I look up at my saviour and see the delightfully attired Emmett Honeycutt sliding into the booth opposite him. 

 

              "Emmett what will it be?" 

 

              "Coffee Kiki and yes I will come and get it."  He smiles knowingly.

 

              "So Michael why couldn't you help your mother with the flyers?"

 

              "I'm busy with Red...Brian!  Hey what are you doing here?"

 

              "Hey Mikey, gave your mother a lift back from flyer posting, what you two gals twittering about?"

 

He slides into the booth next to Emmett and I watch Michael's face pinch as he clearly wanted Brian to sit next to him.

 

              "Why Michael couldn't help Debs with the posters?"

 

Debs grabs the pot and heads to their table and I heave yet another sigh of relief.

 

DEBS

 

I pour them the coffee and sit next to Michael, who is in a snit about something.

 

              "So?"  Brian prompts

 

              "I was busy with Red Cape as I was about to say to Emmett, doing inventory."

 

              "I thought you did that last week?"  I frown.  "That's why you couldn't..."

 

              "Mother, inventory is done daily.  So Brian how have you been?"

 

              "Fine, I..."

 

Before he could elaborate his phone rings.

 

              "Kinney.  Okay be there in 10 minutes.  Gotta go, millions to make ta-ta."

 

He sweeps out majestically leaving drooling admirers in his wake.

 

              "Mother get up I need to speak to Brian..."  Michael is shoving me.

 

              "Well excuse me your lordship!"  I get up and he runs for the door.

 

              "What's up his ass Ems?"

 

              "It's what's not up his ass that's the problem."  Ems snorts.

 

MICHAEL

 

I look up and down the street hoping to see which way he went but I can't see him.  Fuck!  Why is it every time I want to spend time with him these days he's busy, I fucking hate Kinnetic taking up all his time, thank God he's the Stud of Liberty Avenue at least I get to see him in Babylon, but I have an idea about changing that.

 

I trudge back inside and sit next to mother. 

 

              "Did you manage to catch him?"  Emmett asks

 

              "No, I'll go to his office later."

 

I hear the heavy sigh.

 

              "Michael, Brian is a busy man, you can't keep going to his office like this."

 

              "Mother, Brian is my best friend and he has no problems with me coming to his office he would've said so otherwise."

 

Emmett snorts into his cup.

 

              "Honey he's said but you've not listened.  Now I've got to go, the beef isn't going to marinate itself.  Now Debs, let me know how many entrants we've got by this evening, so I can prep the patties and slow cook them tomorrow.  Toodles!"

 

I watch him swish out and shake my head.

 

              "Can't he tone it down a bit?  Why are you doing this mother, this eating thing?"

 

              "Why are you calling me ‘mother' all of a sudden?  And it's a bit of harmless fun, the entrance fee goes to the centre."

 

              "What people stuffing themselves to win more food, how is that fun, couldn't you do something else?"

 

She stands up and snatches the pot off the table.

 

              "You don't have to attend Michael, it's not mandatory."

 

              "I wasn't going to attend, I have much better things to do with my time."

 

              "Good!"  She snaps and walks away.

 

RED CAPE COMICS - THURSDAY AFTERNOON

 

MICHAEL

 

I've had a quiet morning so I think I shall head over to Kinnetic to see if Brian wants to go to lunch.  I tried to call when I got back from the diner but the bitchy assistant said that he was in a meeting, if he's still in a meeting then I'll just wait for him in his office, and he won't mind that.

 

I lock up and head up to the office.

 

              "Excuse me!  Sir, excuse me!" 

 

I turn round to a slightly dishevelled twink coming after me.

 

              "Not interested in whatever you're selling.  Go away."

 

              "But sir you..."

 

              "I said fuck off, now beat it!"

 

JUSTIN

 

I blink rapidly at his rudeness, okay I may be homeless but I'm not a hustler and I was only trying to give him back the $20 that fell out of his pocket. 

 

              "Hey kid you okay?" 

 

              "Yeah thanks, I was just trying..."

 

              "Yeah I saw what you were trying to do, don't let that asshole get to you, here for your honesty."

 

I almost want to cry when he hands me $10 and smiles as he walks away.  This is more money than I've had in a week, I make money doing portraits for people but it's too cold for people to sit outside for long.

 

              "Th-thank you!"  I call out.

 

              "No problem, oh check out the poster about the burger, you could do with some fattening up!"

 

I turn to look for what he's talking about and there's an eating competition, I can do this, I don't care if I win as long as I eat.  Carefully, putting my money away, I make my way to the shelter to get some sleep.

 

HONEYCUTT'S HOUSE OF FOOD - FRIDAY MORNING

 

EMMETT

 

              "Oh hey Debs, how many; well have you seen the size of the thing, I think 20 people is a good showing.   Okay let me get on with them.  Yeah see you tomorrow."

 

KINNETIC - RECEPTION

 

MARY

 

              "As I said to you on the phone Mr Novotny, Mr Kinney is in a meeting all morning and won't be out until at least midday and then..."

 

              "I'll wait in his office then."

 

              "I'm afraid I can't let you..."

 

              "What do you mean you can't let..."

 

              "Michael what the hell are you doing?"  Ted demands.  "I could hear you in my office."

 

              "Hey Ted, I want to wait in Brian's office until his meeting is finished and she won't let me."

 

              "Mr Schmidt I..."

 

              "Don't worry Mary, Michael come with me."

 

As he follows he turns to give me this smug look and I snap a pencil...as I always do when he's on the phone or in the office, I get through a lot of pencils.

 

TED'S OFFICE

 

MICHAEL

 

              "Did you say her name is Mary?"

 

              "Yes why, oh no Michael, you're not asking Brian to fire her simply because she's doing her job, nobody but nobody goes into Brian's office without his permission."

 

              "I'm not nobody, I'm..."

 

              "Treading on thin ice here."  I pause his mantra.  "Now what did you want to see Brian about?"

 

              "I wanted to take him for lunch."

 

              "He has lunch plans already."

 

I frown at him and fold my arms, how does he know this and I don't. 

 

              "Stop pouting Michael you'll get jowls.  He's got lunch plans with the client he's in with now so won't be able to go with you and then we've got a meeting together out of the office, which I have to prepare for, so off you go."

 

He stands up and opens the door.

 

              "Michael."  He prompts me.

 

              "Well I'll see you later then."  I tell him.

 

              "Later?" 

 

              "Yes, dinner at Ben and mine or did you forget?"

 

              "How can I forget something I wasn't invited to?" 

 

              "I could've sworn I sent a text inviting you and Emmett to dinner, oh if you can't make it then that's fine, it will just be the three of us then, as Emmett can't make it tonight either.  See you."

 

I walk out of his office smiling, tonight I get to have Brian all to myself, well Ben will be there but that's okay.

 

TED

 

Michael is such an idiot if he thinks that's going to work.  I quickly send a text to Emmett and smile when he replies with ‘fuck yeah'. 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S - EARLY EVENING

 

BEN

 

Michael, Michael, Michael what the hell were you thinking.  I'm currently sitting in my lounge listening to Emmett tell us about the food for tomorrow and watching the look of fury on Michael's face.  Brian is looking amused as usual and Ted is smirking into his drink, I think he had something to do with their arrival.

 

              "Shall we go and check the stew Ben, we need to make sure that there's enough for all of us now, we may need to bulk it up a bit." 

 

Michael heads to the kitchen glowering at me in impatience.

 

              "Michael what's the matter with you, you're being rude?"

 

              "They said they weren't coming and now they're here isn't that rude of them!"

 

              "Keep your voice down.  What does it matter, they're your oldest friends and there's more than enough food to go round, now grab the cab and let's eat."

 

BRIAN

 

              "Ted, you bad, bad man you."

 

              "What our plans fell through at the last moment didn't they Em?"

 

              "Oh yes, definitely, such a shame but can't be helped."

 

              "Emmy Lou your nose is growing."  I chide him gently.

 

They both look at me with what they hope are innocent expressions, but I've known these boys long enough. 

 

              "Dinner is served, it might be a bit cramped round the table...ouch Ben watch your feet!"

 

              "Sorry just wanted to stop yours from being put in your mouth again!"  He growls at me.

 

Michael flushes crimson and puts the bottle down hard.

 

              "So what's everyone been up to it's been ages since we all got together?"  Ben asks.

 

              "Kinnetic is doing great, we signed another contract this morning and one after lunch, so we're going to be busier than ever." 

 

Ted explains excitedly and I try not to bridle at the eye roll from Michael.

 

              "House of Food is going from strength to strength, I'm looking forward to the competition tomorrow, thanks again for sponsoring it Brian."

 

              "Sponsoring it, you?"  Michael looks surprised. 

 

I nod, but am not surprised that he's surprised, he never listens to half of what people say anyway.

 

              "Yeah, why not me?"

 

              "Well first you barely eat and secondly isn't it a big tacky?"

 

The silence is palpable, I see a bitch fight coming up and as much as I want to see this I want to get my cock sucked and then fuck more.

 

              "Well I'm going to Babylon, who's coming with me?" 

 

              "Babylon but..."

 

              "Me and of course Teddy is coming too!  I can safely say I can think of nowhere I would rather be right now than there getting my Cosmo on.  Come on people."

 

              "But Brian we've done dinner for you, you all.  I mean."

 

              "Like you said Mikey, I barely eat so ciao."

 

We manage to hold it together until we are away from the house and burst out laughing.

 

BEN

 

              "That went well didn't it?  Good job this freezes fine.  I'll leave you to clear up I've got papers to grade."

 

GLC HALL - SATURDAY AFTERNOON

 

DEBS

 

The place is set and it smells wonderful in here.  All our competitors are here and we're ready to start.

 

              "Rules are simple, you have to finish the entire thing; that's 15 hamburger, 15 slices of cheese and the bread.  First one to finish gets six months of free food, sponsored by Kinnetic at a restaurant of their choice.  On your marks, get set, eat!"  I cry

 

Part of me is horrified by the spectacle of people just shovelling food in but the other part is in awe of them, there is one guy who clearly does this for a living and he's just methodically going through it.  There's another who just shovelling it in.  Another who has broken it down and slathered it in hot sauce and there's a slip of a thing just eating like it's his last meal, completely focused, hunched over and just savouring every bit of it.

 

              "Honey you're going to have to go quicker if you want to win."  I nudge him.

 

He looks round the room and starts to speed up and boy can he eat quickly. 

 

Pretty soon people are giving up but professional guy and savouring kid are still going.  Savouring kid stands up and gives himself a shake and then goes back to eating.

 

              "Come on you're ahead keep going, come on!"  Ems is cheering on savouring kid

 

Professional guy glowers but keeps eating, but I can see he's starting to flag.  Savouring kid is just focused on the plate and no one else.

 

              "I give up!"  Professional guy calls out.  "Not one more bite."

 

              "We have a win..."

 

              "Not yet...have to finish it to win." 

 

Savoury kid declares and goes back to eating, I smile and put my hands up.  And within 5 minutes he's finished.  He sit back and grimaces.

 

              "Well done, kid, uh what's your name?"

 

              "Justin, Justin Taylor, can you excuse me I need some air."

 

He grabs his bag and dashes outside and after a while I follow and find him leaning against Brian's car groaning.

 

              "Oh shit someone get Brian and tell him to remain calm!"  I call out

 

Justin lifts his head and looks in horror at what he's done.

 

              "Yeah ma what can I...what the fuck have you done, you've puked all over my car!"

 

              "I'm so sorry I didn't..."  Justin begins but ends up puking on Brian's chest and then his shoes.

 

              "You have got to be fucking kidding me!"  He roars

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

I look down at the remnants of his meal dripping down my cashmere sweater and pooling round my Prada shoes.

 

"You have got to be kidding me?"  I say quietly before looking up at him.  "You're going to pay for the clean-up of my car and the replacement of my shoes and clothes do you understand me?"

 

The puker is too busy groaning with his head down, so I shake him.  He nods and then sways slightly.

 

"It might take him a while Uncle Brian."  I turn to the familiar voice of Hunter.  "He's one of the residents of..."

 

As I turn to Hunter, the puker decides that this would be a good time to run away but before he gets two steps his feet get tangled in the strap of his bag and he starts to fall, but I reach out to grab him, it's then I'm hit by the smell on him- like soft almonds- and how thin he is.

 

"Aw fuck!"  He yells out.  "Stop it, you're hurting me!"

 

"Brian let him go!"  Debs shouts, smacking me on my arm but I don't let go.

 

"No, he's going nowhere."  I pull him back into my chest, which was a bad idea as that smears stuff over the back of his shirt and makes my stomach roll.

 

"Stop fucking squirming!"  I shout and he immediately stills.  "We are going to go and sort this puke out." 

 

"Uncle Brian!  Come on...he's homeless stop being an asshole!"  Hunter declares angrily.

 

This stops me cold and I look at the defeated person in my arms and feel like a shit!  It's just a car and he most probably went into the competition just so he could eat.

 

"Debs, can you get some buckets of water or a hose so that we can get this stuff off my bonnet?  And maybe something for him to wear?"  She nods and quickly goes inside.

 

"C-could you just let me go? You know where I'm going to be; I just want to leave."  He mumbles.

 

"No,"  I say firmly and he sags in my arms in resignation.

 

"Here, managed to find these."  Debs hands me some clothes and I turn us away from them washing the vomit off my car and dial a number.  "Slick, it's me. Look I need a favour... got some puke on the car and I think it's in the paint... yeah, I know you said to put a base on it but can I bring it in now?   Thanks Slick." I hang up and sigh.  "Ma, is there somewhere he can change?"  She nods and leads us back into the centre. 

 

In silence he changes his top and she bags it up for him.  I just take off my jumper and give it to her, thankful for the shirt underneath and the jacket in my car and rinse my shoes. Silently he comes to stand next to me, eyes firmly planted on the ground.

 

"Come on let's go."  I order and he follows, firmly clutching onto his bag.

 

"I'll wash these and find a way to give them back to you."  Debs tells him. He just nods but doesn't look up.  "By the way, asshole, his name is Justin and he won fair and square, so you make sure he gets his winnings!"

 

I say nothing but do nod and open the passenger door and he slowly gets in. We head to Slick's in silence.

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM

 

SLICK

 

I told him not to take the car without a base but no Mr ‘show off' Brian Kinney had to have it now!  I adore the man but sometimes he needs a kick in the nuts to reboot his brain.  I see the familiar shape come down the road and turn in and head down to meet him. He slams the car door hard.  Ah the Drama Queen is definitely here.

 

"Okay so Mr. Drama Queen how...whoa."  I blanch as I look at the bonnet.  "What did they do, puke battery acid?  Tell me you didn't pour water on top of that?"

 

"I just wanted it off my car."  He grumbles.

 

"Idiot!  Without a base it goes straight down and will most likely cause rust.  And...uh Brian who's that and why's he shaking?"

 

"Justin, the puker and I think he might be cold."

 

BRIAN

 

I knew I shouldn't have said that. Slick is, despite having a mouth like a razor and a mind to match, one of the kindest hearted people I've ever met apart from Debs.  She's early 40s, lived in Brooklyn while being raised by her Jamaican grandmother. She came to Pittsburgh when she was 20 and now owns the car best emporium in the burgh.  You want your car detailed you come to Slick.  She takes absolutely no shit whatsoever and has gone toe to toe with Debs and won more than once. 

 

Which is why Michael doesn't like her. He says she has no decorum so needless to say everyone else thinks she's wonderful.  Especially me. I like her because amongst other things she lets me escape and do my tinkering without letting a soul know.

 

"Does he have a name?"

 

"Yeah meet the winner of the competition!"  I remark sourly and open the door.  "Justin, this is Slick; Slick, this is Justin."

 

SLICK

 

The first thing that hits me is the smell this car needs to be aired but then I see how thin he is.

 

"Okay... Justin is it? Come with me."  I wait for him to get out of the car and notice that the shaking has eased a bit.  "You need water or something?"

 

"Water or...no water's fine."

 

"Or?"  I prompt.

 

"A peppermint tea.  I know that I..."

 

"Sure, that we can do. It will help settle your stomach."

 

He follows me slowly not looking back once at Brian, who has cocked his head to one side and is looking appreciatively and I know it ain't at me.  So I slow down and wait for him to pass and yep that's a great ass. 

 

"Okay Justin."  I've guided him into the building and I watch him relax as the warmth hits him.  "Now you see that corridor down there second door on your left...that's the bathroom.  Want to grab yourself a hot shower or would you like to brush your teeth first so you have the tea and then shower?  Makes no odds to me.  It's gonna happen but how it does is up to you.  I've got clothes you can change into since the Drama Queen is going to make you work..."

 

"Work?"  He looks at me properly and he clutches firmly onto his bag.  "Do you mean on his car?"  

 

"Yep."  I smile at him.  "Don't worry, you're in good hands. I've got a few of his babies and you'll be fine."

 

"C-can I have a shower first?"  The trembling is back and his teeth are beginning to chatter.  "Actually, do you have a glass of--" Before he can finish the sentence he slumps to the floor.

 

"Fuck!"  I gasp and quickly turn him on his side, then grab a blanket and cover him.  Dashing down the corridor, I put the shower on as hot as I can get it and then run to the window.

 

"Brian... ass in here now!"  I yell and within minutes he's in the room and looking puzzled.

 

"What the fuck did you do to him?"  He barks.

 

"I didn't do anything! You need to help me warm him up. He's like ice!  Overalls in the locker.  Come on!" 

 

Between the two of us we carry him into the bathroom and get his clothes off and Brian is in an overall.

 

"Eyes up Kinney!"  I order.  "Warm now, drool later!"

 

"I wasn't...never mind!  Wait that's too hot look at his skin; it will burn him. Dial it down a bit." 

 

I watch as he gets under the shower with Justin in his arms and sits down in the cubicle. Slowly but surely his colour starts to come back and then he starts to splutter and then wriggle, not once did Brian take his eyes off of him...time for me to go.

 

BRIAN

 

It seems our puker is coming around.  I pull him tighter to my body and that stops the wriggling.

 

"Let go of me! Why am I naked?"  He manages to sound imperious in this situation.

 

"You were cold and fainted. We're trying to warm you up and it's customary to have a shower without clothes." 

 

I smirk down at him.  He lifts his head from my chest and for the first time I get a good look at him and yeah he's beautiful but then he opens his eyes.  They are as blue as a summer sky, though a little hazy. His mouth is the colour of cherries and I find myself wondering what it would be like to lick his top lip...

 

JUSTIN

 

Please, please, please don't let me have a hard on now!  I'm looking at the most beautiful man I've ever seen and I have no clothes on.  He has a mouth I could kiss until I come...okay not helping yourself Taylor.

 

"Can you stand up?"  He asks.

 

I nod my head and start to think of rotting garbage, festering warts and straight people sex and thank God it seems to be working. "I think I can stand."  I mumble.  "You can leave now." 

 

"Nope I'm not having you fall and hurt yourself. Slick would kill me and besides you owe me a paint job, cashmere sweater and Prada...I repeat Prada shoes."

 

Slowly he slides up the shower wall and gently drops my legs. I turn into the warm water with happiness.  I haven't had a hot shower in weeks and it feels so good.  I start to wash my face with my back to him and then squeal when I feel his hands in my hair.

 

"W-What are you doing?"  I mumble, hoping he doesn't stop as his fingers in my hair feel so good. I'm fighting not to lean back into him.

 

He doesn't say a word just washes my hair quietly and then I feel it when his fingers hit my scar, but still he doesn't say a word, just keeps washing my hair.

 

"I'll let you do the rest but I'll be outside if you need me."  He tells me slipping out of the shower.

 

Twenty minutes later, I step out and brush my teeth and that feels amazing.  People don't realise how good a clean mouth feels.  I spot the overalls Slick was telling me about and then the lotions she's left and I want to cry, because I know I won't be able to use them again...ever.  I take my time applying them and then sniffing hard, I head back to the main room.

 

It's only him in there and he's pacing and muttering.

 

"Are you okay? Where's Slick?"  I sniff and try not to pounce on him.

 

"Why are you crying?"  He comes to stand in front of me.  "Oh God you smell good. Why do you smell so good?  Shit!  Fuck!  Where the hell did that come from?"

 

"Because I have to go back to St Peter's and I just had a shower. As for the last question I don't..."

 

We stare at each other for a few minutes and then he tilts my head up and brushes his thumb along my bottom lip. Oh God, please let him kiss me. Please just kiss me. I send up a silent prayer or at least I thought I did...

 

"With pleasure," he murmurs and covers my mouth with his. It's so warm and gentle. He lets my bottom lip out of his mouth with a soft pop. I immediately wind my hands back into his hair and pull him back down and his arms come round my waist. God, how I want to crawl up his body as our tongues duel gently and we alternate sucking on each other's lips and tongues. I'm not sure how or when we got to the couch but we did and I finally lift my head. Looking down at him, I giggle.

 

"Shut up puker."  He brushes the hair off my face.

 

"Ahem.  Can I look?" I turn my head and see Slick in the doorway with her eyes closed and a tray in her hand.

 

"Yes you can look."  He scoffs at her.

 

"So as kapows go, that was amazing, but tell me something?"  She swats at our legs so that we sit up and I take my tea first.  "How the fuck are we going to keep this from Michael?"

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

I groan and sigh.  "Can you sit up a bit?"  Justin stands and wobbles, immediately we both reach to steady him.  "What part of sit up a bit confused you?"  I rebuke him gently. I pull him back down into the vee of my legs and he relaxes with a sigh. Slick covers him with a blanket and quirks an eyebrow.

 

"Got some chicken soup on with dumplings, think you can manage that Justin?"  She asks standing up and smiling at me.  "Ooh you've got it bad."

 

"Shut up and go get the soup."  I grumble and feel myself blushing all over.  Once she's gone he finishes his tea in silence before turning to face me.  I can't help but kiss him again; she's right I do have it bad and I don't give a fuck.

 

"Who's Michael?"  He settles back into my chest; I'm about to answer when Slick comes back with the soup.

 

"He's his best friend and someone who thinks he has the right to decide how and with whom Brian gets to live his life. Can't stand him."  She puts the tray down.  "Make sure he eats all of it,"  she orders, grins again and leaves.

 

SLICK

 

I head back to the working area to look at his car. It's not that bad but it really is down to the paint, I sigh then I grin.  "Boys strip it right down."  They look at me in disbelief.  "Yes I said strip it right back down, it needs a base and then a repaint."

 

I head to the office and get the keys for one of his other babies and put that in my pocket.  Sighing I look at the Phantom. It really is a great car but for Kinney, the black is just too flat. It needs something but for the life of me I can't think what it is. 

 

BRIAN

 

He's as light as a feather as I carry him upstairs to the room that she sometimes lets me sleep in. He fell asleep within minutes of finishing off his soup. And as I cover him with the blankets and think about leaving him alone, he turns towards me as if seeking warmth. So I slip under the blankets and think just five minutes.

 

MICHAEL & BEN'S HOUSE

 

HUNTER

 

"Hey anybody in?!" 

 

"Hey Hunter, how was the eating competition?"  Ben asks.

 

"Must you shout like that before the door is closed? You never know who is listening."  Michael scowls at me as per usual.  "So how was the tacky endeavour? Thank goodness Brian and I kept away from that."

 

Ben and I exchange looks. Tacky endeavour, I mouth and he just shakes his head then mouths ‘coffee' back to me and I nod.

 

"You may have done and Uncle Brian may wish he did. He got thrown up on twice and his car once by one of the contestants..."  I grab the cup gratefully and take a swig.  "It was grim, poor guy, and he was the winner."

 

"Brian was there! Why didn't you call me?"  He demands, gathering his coat and phone.  "I'm going to see him. He must be furious; you know what he's like about his clothes!  He must be traumatised. See you later."  Within 2 minutes he's gone.

 

"Yeah so he drove them to Slick's so that he could sort out his car first and is most likely still there fussing and griping about that.  So there's no point of you going to his loft because he's not going to be there."  I smirk at the closed door.

 

"Do you think we should call him and give him a heads up that he will have a very cold and very distressed Michael on his stoop when he gets back?"  Ben chuckles.

 

"Nah, it's his newest baby. He's not leaving that alone for a long time. Chances are that the cold will get to Michael before Uncle Brian gets home."

 

"He'll just sit in the car and wait for him,"  Ben remarks shaking his head.

 

"You know that Slick has a room she sometimes lets him sleep in right?"

 

"Ah no I didn't know that.  Does Michael?"

 

"This is Slick we're talking about. She locks down tighter than Fort Knox where Kinney and the need to know is concerned."

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM

 

BEDROOM

 

JUSTIN

 

I'm having a lovely dream.  I'm warm and in the arms of the man I love. He's rubbing my back and actually someone is rubbing my back and saying something to me.

 

"Justin I need to pee... let go."  I open my eyes and blink a couple of times into the laughing green eyes of Brian.  Brian who I threw up on and..."Seriously lift your leg," he grumbles. I do and he dashes to the bathroom.

 

A few minutes later, he slides back into bed and I must have just been staring at him because he frowns at me.  "You okay?"

 

"Mmm.  Actually where's the bathroom?"  He points to a door and I quickly relieved myself and then get back in bed and he pulls me tightly into his side. "So is it just me?"

 

"Nope."  He flips me gently on my back.  "Not just you. Who knew that the ‘kapow' as Slick puts it would happen after throw up?" 

 

There's a knocking at the door and Slick pokes her head in. She has my bag in her hand.  "Thought you might want this close, since you seemed to use it as a life preserver earlier.  And the keys to the Bentley."  She puts them on the side table.

 

"Thank you, Slick. Uh, why did your parents call you Slick?"

 

"They didn't. It's a childhood nickname and only a select few, including those who don't want a matching set, know my real name."  She gives Brian a warning glance and he does the key locking his mouth gesture.  "Right so I've got the boys to take it down to the metal. Don't freak... it needs the base as I said the first time, but the black ain't doing it for me. It needs something to make it pop but can't think of it right now.  Look I'm shutting down for the night. You know where everything is so I'll see you tomorrow." She closes the door gently behind her and I look up at him.

 

"What?  No I'm not telling you her real name. She really will give me a matching set," he advises grimly.

 

"Matching set of what?"  I ask, drawing shapes on his shirt.

 

"Balls."

 

"Huh, I don't understand."  I prop myself up on my elbow and look at him.

 

"You tell me about your scar and I tell you about my balls, agreed?"

 

I nod at him and then almost cry when he tells me that he had cancer and had to have his ball removed. And even though he's got over that, he does feel less than perfect, far removed from what he was like before. His jaw drops when I tell him about the bashing that led to my scar and how little time the fucker got for it and the irony that followed. "He was given community service is a gay hospice and underestimated the strength off one of the residents. He ended up being pushed down the stairs, breaking his back and is now in a wheelchair." 

 

"So why are you on the streets then?  Wait how old are you?  You look about 12," he teases gently.  "Please at least be over 18; I'd hate to break my chicken rule but I will."

 

"I'm 22 fuck you very much and my dad had a problem with a gay son so out I went."  He looks at me in horror. "Haven't seen them for 3 years. I miss my mom and my sister but that's it.  What about you, how tough is the sirloin?"

 

"34 and it is prime rib fuck you very much," he corrects and we both chuckle. It really does feel good to have something to laugh with.

 

OUTSIDE BRIAN'S LOFT

 

MICHAEL

 

Man it is cold!  I've been waiting for a couple of hours and it got too cold to stay outside. He's not returned any of my calls but that's not surprising.  Ah my phone is going. Not Brian but the next best friend, Lindsay.

 

"Hey Lindz, how are you and Gus?  Wait let me put you on speaker. That's better."

 

"We're fine and it's not Lindz; it's Mel. Humph... I knew you would pick up if she called. So daddy when are you going to speak to your daughter?"

 

I grimace and sigh.  "Mel I don't have time for this. Jenny was rude to me and I'm waiting for her to apologise before I see her.  Now I'd like to actually speak to Lindsay."

 

"Michael how are you? You and Jenny have still not made up yet? We're all coming down next weekend and will be staying at Britin- still can't believe he bought that place.  I'm so looking forward to it though. So how's he been? Has he been as debauched as ever?"

 

"Well from what I heard..."

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM

 

BEDROOM

 

BRIAN

 

His hair feels like silk and he's drooling and snuffling on my chest but I really don't care. He's my home.  But Slick is right. This needs to be kept from Michael in order for it to have a chance.

 

 

 

 

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM - SUNDAY MORNING

 

BEDROOM

 

JUSTIN

 

I open my eyes and he's gone. I knew it!  I knew I was hallucinating or having a really good dream. Trying not to cry with disappointment, I slowly get up and pull off the overalls and put back on my clothes, which smell wonderfully clean.

 

Taking one last look round to see that I've not left anything, not that I have anything to leave, I head downstairs, out into the forecourt and back to St Peter's.

 

BRIAN

 

Right I've just got to go to the diner and then I can...oh fuck no, change of plan back to the car and then to the diner.  Quickly I turn back and hope he hasn't seen me. 

 

DINER

 

DEBS

 

"Morning mother.  Which section are you in?"

 

I grit my teeth at this new affectation he has acquired. Before I was ‘ma' now I'm ‘mother.' He moves down to the gentrified part of town and thinks he's Little Lord Fucking Fauntleroy!  I point at my section and he grabs a booth, almost breaking his neck to get there.

 

"My friends are coming," he advises the people who he pushed past.  "Another booth has come free now." 

 

I serve them first mumbling apologies. They smile and roll their eyes as everyone knows how Michael is.  But as Slick says just because they know how he is doesn't mean he should get away with shit. That's one of the main sources of our arguments. In fact, I don't think we are argue about anything else though the last one was particularly bad. He made a remark about her not having a mother and that is a no-no for her. So when she cracked back, I stupidly leapt into defend him. We didn't speak for three weeks until Brian intervened.

 

"Hey Debs, how are you today?"  Ems voice trills behind me.  "I shall be with his lordship when you're ready." He heads to the back booth exaggerating his swish to annoy Michael and I have to hide my smile.

 

"Brian!  Over here!" He yells, waving like a demented cheerleader. 

 

Brian saunters to the back booth and slides in next to him. He lights up a fucking candle.  I head over with my pad and a silent prayer of fortitude.

 

"What will it be boys?"  I ask.  "Oh Brian I managed to get that stuff cleaned for you, but don't freak I think I shrunk your sweater."  I wait for the explosion.

 

"Mother, everyone knows you don't machine wash cashmere, right Brian?"

 

"How shrunk is shrunk?"  He grumbles, no explosion just grumbling.

 

I head back to the office and return with his sweater and the clothes Justin was wearing.  "It's not that bad."  I hope.

 

"Not that bad? It's at least a size too small. What did you do put it in the hot wash?"  Michael is reacting worse than Brian, who is just staring at it with a look of...I don't know but it's not anger.

 

"It's okay Debs, I've always wanted a slim fit cashmere sweater.  Thanks is that the rest of the stuff?" 

 

"Yeah. Oh by the way, what happened to that kid?"  I demand.  "Just because he puked on you doesn't mean you get to welch out of the deal!"  I jab my pencil at him.

 

"Yes, did you rip him a new one?  Hunter told me about it yesterday. I went to the loft to see how you were but you weren't in..."  Michael trails off with a pout and puppy dog eyes.

 

"I ended up at Britin instead. I wanted to have a bath and there isn't one in the loft, as you well know from your numerous visits."  Brian replies.  "Excuse me a minute... hey Slick, what's up?"

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM

 

SLICK'S OFFICE

 

"What's up is that I was coming back to my emporium and saw Justin walking down the street. Where the hell are you? You asshole how could you just leave him like that? Ooh I'm so pissed, I could key your car!  Now I'm putting you on speaker so you can tell him exactly what the fuck you were thinking!"

 

"Hang on. I have to take this, be right back. Slick are you there? Look I left him a note to say where I was going... Justin I left a note. I went to get some things and I was coming back as soon as I could but got waylaid by Debs and..."

 

"Michael?  Justin was there a note?"  He's shaking his head. "So where'd you put this note?"

 

"On the table by the bed."

 

"You stay there, be right back." 

 

"Justin?  Justin please talk to me. I left you a note; I promise you I left a note."  I hear Brian beseeching Justin to believe him.

 

"And he never breaks a promise nor does he lie." I say as I come back into the office. "It fell down and ended up under the bed.  Sorry about the asshole and keying car threat Brian, but you should've seen how upset he was.  Look I'm gonna leave you guys to talk and whatever it says in that note you do.  Bye Brian."

 

BRIAN

 

I heave a sigh of relief and head back inside. I know I won't be able to get away from Michael for a while but I need to get the stuff back to Slick.  I text Emmy Lou and wait for 2 minutes.

 

"You buzzed."  He saunters out.  "Thank God. If I hear one more ‘mother' from him, I might just piss in his coffee.  What can I do for you?"

 

"Did you bring the... oh good.  Look take my car go to Slick's and give her the stuff in the boot, and this.  She'll explain with great pleasure, I'm sure.  And Emmy Lou don't drive like Miss Daisy. Get there quickly."

 

"Okay this has to be good if you are letting me drive one of your babies.  Toodles."

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM

 

EMMY LOU

 

I have to admit that I'm not a lover of cars but this place is just heavenly.  There is a Maserati in the showroom that I would give my right nut to fuck in and I'm over 6 foot and don't bend that well.

 

"Hey Emmy Lou come up!"  Slick hollers.  "Tea or something stronger."

 

"Stronger!"  I call back as I make my way upstairs and find myself staring at Savouring Kid.  "So what's he doing here?  And these are from Brian for you." She frowns at me but takes the bags and starts smiling as she looks through them.

 

"Oh manners... Emmett Honeycutt this is Justin, uh- what's your surname?"

 

"Taylor."

 

"Emmett Honeycutt this is Justin Taylor; Justin Taylor, Emmett Honeycutt. He did the food you barfed up."

 

"You!"  I gasp.  "I heard about someone desecrating the great God Kinney and his car but had no idea it was you.  Aha, so this would be his payback, getting him to sort his car out?"

 

"And his dry cleaning and new Prada, I repeat, Prada shoes." Justin giggles at her perfect impersonation of a pissed off Brian.  "Yeah it may have started off that way..."

 

My gossip radar is pinging and by the way he's blushing something happened. "Dish!"  I demand and fold myself into her couch.  "I want to know everything and I swear I will try and keep it quiet."

 

"Well you know about the puking thing. Well he brought him here and he fainted. We had to get him into the shower to warm him up and after that I don't know...you'd have to ask Justin...so Justin tell Emmy Lou what happened next. You know between the shower and the couch..."

 

Justin is bright pink but smiling so hard, we both look expectantly at him. "He washed my hair and then when I came out, I prayed that he would kiss me but I unconsciously said it out loud. And he did and then Slick came in a found us making out..."

 

"Wait, define kiss. Were there tongues involved?"  I demand.  "And where were you making out?"

 

"Yes tongues and first against the wall then we moved to the couch," he mumbles, grinning at the memory.

 

"So Slick were hips involved? Ass grabbing?"  I query hopefully, I love living through Kinney tales.

 

"No hips and nothing below the waist as far as I could tell.  But lots of running hands through hair and face stroking.  And judging by the lack of condom wrappers nothing happened last night either."

 

"Slick!"  Justin groans going redder.

 

"Last night!" I shriek. "Wait you and Brian made out, there was nothing below the waist, slept the night but actually slept and...and...and I'm missing something aren't I?"

 

"Yep, these are a mite small for Brian, don't you think? And the greys aren't really his colour and we know how particular he is about his clothes..."

 

She's smiling at Justin who just looks at the bags and then at her.  "He, he bought these for me?"  She nods and hands them to him and he looks through them with wonder.  "But, but where am I going to put them? I can't take them to St Peter's. They'll be stolen and where is he? I need to talk to him about this!"

 

"Why don't you call him?"  She asks gently bringing another bag in front of her.

 

"I don't have his number let alone a phone. Can I use your office?"

 

"Sure, but call him from this. Says he's speed dial one."  With shaking hands he takes the bag from her and pulls out an iPhone.  "Emmy Lou let's leave him to it.  And Justin don't be too proud okay?"

 

He nods and bites his lip. As he starts to dial, we head to the kitchen and close the door.

 

"Slick what the hell's happened?"

 

"You've just met Brian's kapow and we are going to have fun keeping Michael in the dark. But when he finds out we're also going to be making sure he doesn't interfere, correct?"

 

"His kapow really!  Oh I'm so pleased for him. It's about fucking time!  And yes we're going to let them work this on their own and that means no interference from Canada either!  Oh wait, can I tell Ted? Please let me tell Ted."

 

"You can tell Ted, we need all the help we can get."

 

SLICK

 

And this is why I love Emmy Lou. He just wants happiness for Brian like I do; not happiness on other people's terms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OUTSIDE THE DINER

 

BRIAN

 

I'm looking up the road for signs of Emmy Lou. According to Justin, he was in raptures when he told them what happened.   I'm happy, as with a bit of persuading, he's agreed to accept the clothes I bought and the phone as well, Now if I can just get him to agree to the other thing.  I need Emmy Lou to give my keys back so I can finally finish listening to Michael. I can feel his eyes boring into the back of my skull as I continue to pretend to be on the phone.  I had to tell him it was an urgent business call.

 

"Are you almost done? He's driving me fucking insane in there!"  Debs' voice makes me jump.

 

I nod and reluctantly head back inside.  "Sorry about that Michael but work waits for no man. Now I'm all yours but I do have to get back to Slick's to see about my car."  I smile at him and he stops pouting.

 

"So tell me about this guy who was sick on you.  You never said what you did to him?"

 

"Not much I could do.  After I left my car at Slick's, she dealt with him.  Though I have to feed him for six months.  A deal's a deal."  I bite into my turkey sandwich and wait for the whinge.

 

"Well if it was me, I wouldn't honour it at all," he decrees.  "You don't..."

 

"I do have to Michael. How would it look if the sponsor welched on a deal?"  I point out.  "Besides just because he's homeless..."

 

"Homeless? Oh come on Brian. You don't even know he was in the competition, he could be..."

 

"Michael."  Debs sits next him.  "I was there and that kid was in the competition. Now this has nothing to do with you.  Besides if he reneges he will have me to deal with me, won't you kiddo?"

 

"Yes ma."  I grin at her and sip my coffee.  "Or even worse have Slick lock away my cars."

 

"I don't see why you go to her. There must be other places you can have your cars detailed," he grumbles.  "So how is this homeless person going to pay for your car and shoes to be sorted out?"

 

"Because I'm the best in the burgh and he'd be a fool to go anywhere else again."  She smirks at me and then winks.  "Here's your keys back."  Again she winks.  "And as for the car, he's going to work on it. I'm going to pay him and the money he earns he's going to pay for the dry cleaning and the shoes."

 

"What are you doing here?  Where's Emmy Lou?"  I'm hoping she's not left Justin alone.

 

"He's at the office.  But he suggested I go to Torso and look at the black shirt in the window and I think I've got it, the perfect black.  What do you think?"

 

She holds up a shirt that has a slight iridescent sheen to it.  It would look fantastic on the Phantom.

 

"Do you think you could mix it the paints to get it just like that?"  I stroke the shirt. Although it's not my style I think it would look great on a certain someone, when we go out for dinner.

 

"Hmm maybe, but I really need to wait for Idaho to come back and that won't be until Wednesday.  So we're looking realistically at next Friday for the return."  She folds the shirt up and raises an eyebrow.  "I might return this I just needed the colour unless you want to see how it looks up close against the car."

 

"Shut up and take the shirt with you."  I grouch quietly.

 

The bell goes above the diner and Debs hollers greetings at Ben, he comes to join us and is followed by Ted and Blake.  Michael's face drops more and more.

 

"Did I hear you say Idaho is coming back?"  Debs leans against the booth.

 

Slick nods and smiles.  "Yep sadly his dad passed but he's coming back.  None of you have met him right?  I mean apart from Brian, he's a dish and a doll.  Right that's me done, want to come and see this up close or..."

 

"Actually, I might as well come now.  I've got to get ready. Have an early morning meeting.  See you guys later."

 

"But Brian, we've hardly had any chance to talk," Michael protests.  "You haven't even finished your sandwich."

 

"Sorry Michael but I've got to get to Slick's, then back to the loft and then to Britin. The clients are coming there. Theodore I will see you at seven sharp tomorrow morning.  No tiring him out Blake."  I nudge Slick.  "Did you bring the car on the trailer or do you need a ride back?"

She links arms with me and smiles prettily batting her eyelashes.  "Oh I need a ride."   Michael snorts behind us.  "Bye all."

 

MICHAEL

 

I stab at my rapidly cooling food and wave at mother.  "Can you warm this up again for me?"  She waits for a bit before taking my plate.  "Please mother?"  I smile tightly at her.

 

"What's the matter Michael? You don't look happy."  Blake asks politely.

 

Kiki brings back my food and plonks it down in front of me.  I hate it when she serves me; I'm never sure if she's done something to my food.

 

"Brian's gone with Slick to her emporium and Michael's upset about that."  She smiles.  "Now what will you boys have?"

 

They place their order but Blake continues to look confused. "So?  He's got to get his car sorted out. Why is this an issue?"

 

"Slick's Car Emporium is the one place that Michael is banned from," Kiki tells him smugly.  "And banned for life."

 

"You got banned from...how?"  Blake looks incredulous.   "What did you do scrape a car?"

 

"No, he was waiting for her to finish one of the cars and was just moaning and moaning about how long it was taking before it escalated into a full-on bitch fest.  He's banned from her place and she's banned from the comic book store. Only one of them is upset about that."  Kiki chuckles as she brings their coffees.  "And it's not her."

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM

 

BRIAN

 

When I get to the bedroom, he's sleeping so I head back downstairs and Slick's just grinning at me as is Emmy Lou.  He's rustled up a chicken stew and left it to cook slowly, until Justin wakes up.

 

"How long has he been asleep?"

 

"About an hour or so.  Should be waking up soon."  He stares at me thoughtfully.  "So what are you going to do about this?"  He indicates the bags.  "And that little morsel?"  He nods in the direction of the bedroom.

 

"Well I was thinking of trying to persuade him to move into the loft with me."  I look to see their reactions. Emmy Lou grins but Slick frowns.  "It would give us time to get to know each other and..."  I turn round as I feel Justin's arms round my waist.  

 

"You can't be serious?"  Justin rubs his eyes and stares at me.   "Oh something smells good."

 

"Yeah, I'm serious.  You need somewhere to live and put those clothes and I wouldn't mind having you keep my bed warm; you give off some serious heat," I tease him, kissing him lightly.

 

"It would never work.  Michael would stake out the loft and you'd never get a moment's peace."  She frowns again.  "No, I have a better idea."

 

"Didn't you say that he's got a boyfriend?  How does he put up with this?"  Justin asks curling up on the couch with me.  "If my boyfriend was running after another guy like that he would be gone."

 

Emmy Lou sighs.  "Ah Justin, now that is a mystery. Ben, for all his intellect, likes to see the good in people and thinks that eventually Michael will get over this infatuation with Brian.  He and Michael met at Babylon of all places, and despite their rocky start...not my story to tell...they've been together ever since.  Michael was not initially happy with Hunter and sometimes I think he's still not, but they come as a pair."  He takes a sip of his drink.  "Yeah and of course Brian and Hunter hit it off straight away. It also helps that Gus and Hunter are pretty good mates, despite the distance."

 

"Who's Gus?"  Justin asks looking at me.

 

Emmy Lou winces.  "Sorry Brian, I didn't..."  I wave off his apologies and he looks relieved.

 

"That comes under the getting to know me part. He's my son, with my lesbian best friend and her wife."  He raises his eyebrows but doesn't seem to be fazed by it.  "He's 15 to Hunter's 18."

 

"So back to the living arrangements, you and he in the loft won't work."  She grins.  "How about you stay here as my um night watchman?"

 

"Night watchman?"  We all echo.  "How does that work with...aha!"  Emmy Lou grins.  "You really are very good."

 

"What?  I don't get it."  Justin frowns.

 

"Michael is banned from this place."  Emmy Lou smiles.  "He can't get at Brian here."

 

 

CHAPTER 6: TRUTH

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I stare at her in astonishment.  "A night watchman?  You mean you...I mean I would have to walk round here at night?"  I worry at my lip.  "I'm not sure I can do that you see..."

 

 

 

"No sweetheart, let me stop you there.  I know who you are and what you went through and there is no way I would let you do that."  Slick reassures me.  "Emmy Lou, I'll catch you up.  No, what I mean is this is what you tell people if they ask."

 

 

 

"How do you know who I am?"  I look worriedly at Brian, but he gives me a tight squeeze.

 

 

 

"Bluntly?  These cars are worth a shitload and it's my business to protect them and the people that own them.   And when you said your surname I thought you looked familiar so I went to the library and read up on you."

 

 

 

"Oh my goodness, baby you're that Justin Taylor!"  Emmy Lou cries, tears filling his eyes.  "I have to phone Teddy and we..."  He starts to pace and whirl his arms around.

 

 

 

"No we have to leave and let them be."  Slick stills his movements.  "Now, there's a stew in the oven. You need to eat that - both of you. There's a Gigondas 2013 that will work perfectly your majesty.  Emmy Lou you and I are going back to mine; we have to strategize."

 

 

 

Within five minutes it is just the two of us and I begin to worry. "Brian?  Supposing, I mean do you think that Slick would throw me out when she realises about my hand?"

 

 

 

He frowns and sits us upright.  "Your hand?"  He asks.  "What about it?"

 

 

 

"When I was bashed, I lost some function in my right hand.  With hard work I got it back but sometimes when I overdo it, it shakes, cramps up and curls in on itself and..."  I stop talking as he strokes the knuckles and palm of said hand.

 

 

 

"She won't do that."  He kisses me gently.  "She's too kind for that.  Now anything else?"

 

 

 

"Tell me about you, Gus and everything personal, not work. I want to know you."  I ask.  "And please be honest."

 

 

 

"Sure you want to know?"  He looks worried.  "I think we need to eat first though if you do.  And you have to do the same, tell me everything."

 

 

 

I nod and for the next hour we talk about ourselves from childhood to present day and then I take a deep breath.

 

 

 

"So you're the Stud of Liberty Avenue, so what's your number?"  I bite my lip but then chuckle as he groans and lowers his head to the table.  "Come on, I'll tell you mine if you tell me yours, I mean roughly."

 

 

 

"You want to know how many I've fucked or how many I've made love to."  He walks us back to the couch and I settle between his legs.  "And I think I know your number."

 

 

 

"Okay let's start with fucked?"  I knew the number would be high but when he said over a thousand I looked at him in wonder.  "How did you...I mean you must have had sex every day?!"

 

 

 

He nods and smiles.  "Yes but in fairness, I do have a very high sex drive and I mean very high.  But as for how many I've fucked recently, since my cancer and starting my business, it's less than 50.  Don't get me wrong I get off but I just...I don't know I just want to be back where I was and I'm scared; I never bring anyone back to the loft anymore.  The backroom gives me the protection of my reputation that I need."

 

 

 

He looks at me for understanding and I wrap my legs round him and snuggle into his chest.  "So how many have you made love to?"  I ask quietly and wait. He runs his fingers through my hair, before sighing and pushing me gently back.

 

 

 

"Two.  Though I really would like to make it three."

 

 

 

"Was the two recently?"  He shakes his head.  "And do...do you want to make love to me?"

 

 

 

"Very much so, but..."

 

 

 

"What's my number?"  He looks puzzled and I grin at him.  "You said you knew my number?  So come on maestro what is it?"

 

 

 

"Fucked or made love to?"  He smiles down at me.  "Both."  I reply.  "Zero for both."  I gape at him.

 

 

 

"But...but how did?" I blush deep red.

 

 

 

"Just a few things you said and have done...or not."  He snickers at my confusion.  "You said you don't do sex for sex sake and you believe in love.  And you said you've never been in a serious relationship.  So zero for both."

 

 

 

"Okay that covers said, it doesn't cover do.  What did I do that makes me scream virgin to you."

 

 

 

"You don't scream virgin to me, and even if you did, don't say it like it's a bad thing, it's not.  You whimpered and it's in your eyes and your kiss."

 

 

 

"Whimpered?"   I try to think when I whimpered.  "Wait my eyes and my kiss.  I kiss like a virgin?  How is that cool or even sexy?"  I pout.

 

 

 

He bursts out laughing, which is not helping and I start to scoot backwards but he holds me firmly.  "It is cool and it is sexy as hell."  He rolls his eyes and pushes me on my back.  "I don't break my promises and I don't lie."

 

 

 

I look into his eyes and then run my finger over his bottom lip.  Slowly he lowers his head and his mouth covers mine.  Once again we start lip sucking and tongue duelling.  He lifts his head and nuzzles my neck before having some wine.  When he leans back down to kiss me I'm surprised and delighted when he shares a little bit with me.

 

 

 

"More," I murmur.  He nods and reaches for his glass and takes another draught. The warmth of the wine and his tongue is intoxicating.  "More please."  He chuckles and obliges until we finish his glass.

 

 

 

"Am I too heavy?"  He asks going back to nuzzling my neck.  I tilt my head to give him more access and giggle then shake my head, letting out a gasp as he does something with his tongue behind my ear.

 

 

 

"Oh!"  That tingles all the way down to my ankles and he starts to nip at my earlobe before licking that spot again.  His breath is so hot against my skin.  Somehow we end up turning over and I plunder his mouth.  I become aware between kisses he's saying something.  "Wh...what did you say?"

 

 

 

"I said I'm thirsty."  He raises an eyebrow.  "Could I have a drink please?"

 

 

 

"Oh, sorry!"  I scramble off him and dash to the kitchen and look in the fridge.  "There's water, beer or juice, what did you want?"  When he doesn't answer, I look at him. At first he looks bewildered and then he starts to laugh.  "What's so funny?"  He's laughing harder and is thumping the sofa.  "Brian what is it!"

 

 

 

"Yo...you!"  He manages to gasp out; the more his laughs the more pissed off I get.

 

 

 

"Well that's not the reaction I was hoping for but now you've killed the mood, I think it's best if you leave."  I stand imperiously by the fridge with my arms folded. He starts to calm down his laughing and stands up.

 

 

 

"Justin, stop being a princess."  He chides me gently.  "Okay princess...wrong word.  But come on, you've got to see the funny side of this?"

 

 

 

"How?  When I don't know what's amused you?"  I almost stamp my feet.

 

 

 

"I meant I wanted some wine."  He lifts my chin.  "How did we finish my glass?"  He asks gently.

 

 

 

"Well you...oh!"  I blush scarlet and bury my head in my hands and then bury both in his chest groaning with embarrassment.  After about 2 minutes, I look up at him.  "So um, you still want the wine?"

 

 

 

He tosses me over his shoulder and carries me back to the bedroom after stopping off to get the wine on the way.  After placing the glass on the side he dumps me on the bed and grins before lying down on his back.   "I would like a sip of the Gigondas 2013 from the cherry lips of a Justin Taylor, please."

 

 

 

I reach for the glass and take a sip and lower my head and grant him his wish.  We rock against each other before he flips me on my back and goes back to neck nibbling and starts to pop open the overall.  "Okay?"  He whispers and I nod.  He kisses down to my chest and then lowers the top of the overall down to my waist and takes off his top. The feel of his skin against mine is amazing.

 

 

 

But not as amazing as the feel of his tongue against my nipple.  "Oh, oh."  I gasp.  I feel rather than hear his chuckle, but as he continues to lave against my sensitive nubs I have to stop him.  "What's wrong?"  He blows on my nipple and I groan.  

 

 

 

"Nothing but if you continue..." I mumble.  

 

 

 

"Then it's all good...but you still want me to stop?"  He murmurs and when I nod comes back to kissing me and it feels so very good. So very, very good.

 

 

 

As my right hand massages his skull gently, my left runs up and down from the base of his spine to the back of his neck with feather light touches.  He groans. "Justin, you...unhhh...I think you have just found a hot spot for me I didn't know existed.   Oh fuck, yeah, mmm!"  

 

 

 

He starts grind against me.  "You want me to stop?"  He shakes his head vigorously.  "Oh thank God, please keep moving."  I beg and he obeys then starts to bite his lip.  

 

 

 

"Oh God!"  He gasps before shuddering and groaning quietly and I follow him with a soft cry and tightening my grasp of his hair.  After a few minutes of silence, he lifts his head and we grin at each other.

 

 

 

"So yeah, haven't come in my pants since I was 14!"  He tells me and I beam at him.  

 

 

 

"Me neither!"

 

 

 

He flips onto his back and once we get our breath back, pulls me into the shower.

 

 

 

MICHAEL & BEN'S

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

I'm trying to watch a programme on Tibet but Michael keeps sighing and I know he will keep fucking sighing until I ask him what's wrong and since I haven't Tivo'd this

 

 

 

"What's on your mind?"

 

 

 

"Do you think that Brian was okay today?  You don't think he's overworking do you?"

 

 

 

Seriously!  This, this is what you're dwelling over?! Your daughter's not talking to you.  Your mother thinks you're being a pretentious dick.  And you've roped us into the most boring dinner party in the world ever on Thursday. But I say none of these things. Instead, I calmly reply,

 

 

 

"No, I think he's fine.  But running Kinnetic takes a lot of time and effort."

 

 

 

"True, but I want him to enjoy himself as well.  I just hope he's not neglecting the Stud side of his life."

 

 

 

Okay that has my attention. "Not sure what you mean there?"

 

 

 

"Well he is the Stud of Liberty Avenue and rumour has it that his loft is not the love palace that it once was.  But I've made sure that particular rumour was put to rest and..."

 

 

 

"What exactly do you mean again?"

 

 

 

"Oh simple. I let it be known amongst the more discerning - is that the right word?  yes I think it is - but gossipy queens that there was an orgy at his loft and he was involved in a conga fuck."

 

 

 

I just stare at him for a minute. "Please let me be there when you tell him what you've done."

 

 

 

"Of course!" he exclaims, like what he's done is so great before he continues. "I'm so glad that you don't have a jealousy issue with Brian and understand our friendship.  Oh and I've invited him to the dinner."

 

 

 

Suddenly Thursday doesn't seem such a bad idea.

 

 

CHAPTER 7: MEETING

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S BEDROOM - MONDAY MID-MORNING

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I slept so well and feel so great.  Last night after the shower, we hung up my clothes.  Then he stayed with me until he had to absolutely, definitely go home.  And when I woke up this morning my cell was taped to the bedside table with a note taped on it to say "I have sent you a text".

 

 

 

Pulling on my boxers and a tee, I pad to the bathroom pull at and rue my bedhead, before heading back to make up the bed.  There's a soft knock on the door and Slick pokes her head round the door.

 

 

 

"Hey there, how'd you sleep?"  I grin at her.  "Ah that good?"  She looks round "Where's the GGK?"  I frown at her.  "Sorry GGK is what I call Brian, stands for Great God Kinney...I'm one for acronyms by the way."

 

 

 

"Had an early morning meeting, so left late last night."  I stretch and start to pull on some clothes.  "So are you going to show me what to do with his car?"

 

 

 

"Not necessarily...oh you have got to be kidding me?!"  She chuckles when she spots the cell and the note.  "Ker-yoot!  Once you've read and replied, come down, coffee's on.  We need to talk about a couple of things."

 

 

 

I settle down on the bed and open my phone.  ‘Justin, have a very busy couple of days so most likely won't see you until tomorrow evening.  Though if you feel the need to interrupt my day with calls, texts and updates on how my car is coming along do feel free.  Later B.'

 

 

 

I smile and reply and then head downstairs to join Slick, who has just poured coffee for herself.

 

 

 

"So the POC is this..."  I look confused.  "Sorry POC is plan of campaign...is not a work day...going to intro you to the boys.  Do you know where the diner is?"  I shake my head.  "Okay we'll go there so you can find your way without problems.  Generally, that's where the boys eat. It's a rule that they have to get off the lot for lunch.  Also, can you drive?"  I nod.  "Great so we'll drive and you can use one of the trucks, just make sure you sign out for it.  And I need to also show you where Emmy Lou's place is and then the art supply store.  Jesus fuck it's lucky I like you two; all these errands he has me running!  You hungry?"

 

 

 

Right on cue my stomach grumbles and she snickers before grabbing keys and we head down to garage.

 

 

 

"Boys this is Justin. Justin these are the boys, left to right Mac, Richard, Stewart, Bell and Cujo are the main ones to look to if you have any questions."  They all smile or wave at me.  "And of course Idaho when he comes back on Wednesday.  They are all good guys, or they wouldn't be here.  I have a list of errands to run for GGK so we'll see you later."

 

 

 

As we drive into town, she keeps looking at me.  "What?  Why are you staring at me?"

 

 

 

"You're not normally his type that's all.  So how slow you taking it?  Oh by the way, I live through his sex and now love life, so you'll have to forgive my nosiness."

 

 

 

"When you say ‘live' does that mean he tells you everything?"  I must look scandalised as she bursts out laughing again.  "Oh God he does, doesn't he?"

 

 

 

"Yep!"

 

 

 

HONEYCUTT'S HOUSE OF FOOD

 

 

 

EMMY LOU

 

 

 

Ben has just been in with Hunter to place their order for the dinner on Thursday night.  His lordship has deigned to utilise my services for his little soiree and so I shall be in attendance to supervise.  He's got about 16 people coming.  I find myself a little peckish and was all set to head to the diner when Slick and Justin come in.

 

 

 

"Ooh hello my darlings!  Want to park out back right and we're going to the diner."  They nod and Justin is just looking at the food in amazement.  "You are just what Debs needs, well not entirely but it's a start."

 

 

 

DINER

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

Today is hopefully going to be the day that Michael drops that fucking ‘mother' crap and is not whining.  All evening last night he moaned about how Brian left without speaking to him, completely forgetting the almost two hours he spent with him before that!

 

 

 

Don't get me wrong I love my son but there are days I think seriously... just seriously get a hold of yourself, Michael Charles Novotny! Brian can't be at your beck and call every minute of the fucking day, he has to work for the things he's got. If Michael only he had a tenth of his drive and ambition, he might find himself too busy to be running after Brian.

 

 

 

The doorbell ringing gets my attention and I beam at Slick, so pleased we are back to normal.

 

 

 

"Hey you gorgeous girl you.  And Emmy Lou and Justin...wow you weren't kidding about him working for you were you?"

 

 

 

"Nope GGK wants his car done and he's the man to do it.  Now you're the woman do something for me...get some meat on this boy's bones?!"

 

 

 

I take a good look at Justin and point them in the direction of a corner booth.  "Kiki!  We're swapping sections!"  She looks up and nods.  "You're not one of those vegetarians are you?"

 

 

 

"Oh God no, I like to eat meat too mu...I mean...uh no."  He's blushing badly.

 

 

 

"Good to know!  Aren't you adorable when you blush?  So half a full house for you.  You two the usual and I think a hot chocolate for you Justin; that okay for you all?"  I get nodding.  "Oh hey sweetheart, my section is..."

 

 

 

"Letting in hustlers earlier and earlier these days mother?"  He sighs staring at the corner booth.  I stare at him in confusion.  "That kid over there sitting with Emmett is a hustler."  His voice raises so everyone looks at them.  "I was closing up last week and he came up to me in broad daylight..."

 

 

 

"I am not a hustler!  I was trying to return the $20 you dropped!"  Justin snaps back.

 

 

 

"Well where is it then?"  Michael walks towards him with his hand outstretched.  "I'd like it back."

 

 

 

"I-I don't have it anymore..."  Justin stammers and Michael scoffs.

 

 

 

"So what did you spend my money on?"  Michael demands.  "You do realise that technically you stole that money and I could have you arrested?"

 

 

 

"No he didn't and no you couldn't, because I saw what happened last Friday.  You locked up that tatty shop of yours and the money fell out of your pocket and he was calling you to give it back."   A man interrupts and he heads to the booth and extends his hand.  "Hey kid you look better, my name's Carl.  Detective Carl Horvath so I know what I'm talking about."  He turns back to Michael.   "And you told him to beat it and fuck off.  I gave him $10 for his honesty."

 

 

 

"Jus...Justin Taylor and I'm fine, thank you for asking.  Are you sure he can't..."

 

 

 

"Positive.  Now we're all going to enjoy our breakfasts without any more name calling or threats understand?"  He glowers at Michael who swiftly heads to the counter.

 

 

 

"Carl did you say your name is?"  I ask grinning at him and he nods.  "Well I'm Debbie. Most people call me Debs and that's on the house, I mean whatever you are having is on the house."

 

 

 

"Thanks Debs, I'll have the bacon sandwich with an over easy egg on whole-wheat."

 

 

 

"What no donut?"  Slick drawls sarcastically and before anyone could react she kisses him on the cheek.  "You're late today. Busy night?"

 

 

 

"Pulled a double, but I'm heading home now... well after this."  He replies smiling at her.  "What you doing here?"

 

 

 

"Feeding the newest member of my crew."  She points to the booth.

 

 

 

"This is just too much.  You're the guy that has to do Brian's car?!"  Michael is chortling. "I can't believe that you..."

 

 

 

"And how is that comic book store of yours doing?  I see fewer and fewer people in there these days?"  Kiki asks sarcastically and I see him tense up.

 

 

 

"I'll have the coffee to go," he demands looking at me impatiently. Quickly I get his order sorted out and he stomps out.

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I feel like shit now.  Emmy Lou is looking at me sympathetically and reaches across to squeeze my hand. At least I defended myself.

 

 

 

"Oh, well it had to happen sooner rather than later..."

 

 

 

Slick looks between the two of us.  "Happen what happened?"

 

 

 

"Michael happened.  He accused Justin of being a hustler as loudly as he could."  Emmy Lou rolls his eyes and fury flashes across his face.  "Luckily, Carl - him by the counter making moony eyes at Debs - set him straight but he knows that Justin is working on Brian's car."

 

 

 

"Wait, that's Michael, the Michael that..."  I groan

 

 

 

Slick glowers and sighs heavily.  "Yep that's him.  Okay you guys carry on feeding and Emmy can you take him to the art shop and GGK's office.  I need to have a word with a particular loudmouth Italian."

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

Oh shit I know that face.  That's the ‘your son is about to get a beat down' face.  "Slick, leave something for me to deal with okay?"  I call out and she gives me a tight smile.

 

 

 

RED CAPE COMICS - EARLY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I've been trying to get Brian all morning.  I don't care what he wants to say. That kid is trouble and I don't think that Brian should have him working on his car.  I try Kinnetic but that Mary woman said that he's not in. She's just not putting me through.  I finally manage to be put through to Ted.

 

 

 

KINNETIC

 

 

 

TED'S OFFICE

 

 

 

TED

 

 

 

Why me God I sigh.

 

 

 

"Michael I'm very busy, what is it?  Yes I know where Brian is?  That's Kinnetic business and nothing to do with you.  I'm aware that you're his best friend but he's with clients so won't be answering his phone at all.  Again that's Kinnetic business and on a need to know basis and you don't need to know it.  Michael I have to go.  Bye."

 

 

 

My mobile goes and I send it to voicemail and decide that lunch is definitely called for.

 

 

 

DINER

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

Emmy Lou showed me where the art store is and Slick met us in there.  We were both dying to know what she said to Michael but she said she hadn't caught up with him yet but she would.  She gave me an advance on my salary and I got a new pad and pencils and we headed to the diner. Debs said I had to be back for the rest of my breakfast.

 

 

 

When Slick came back she had a massive bag from the art store and put it next to me on the seat.  She and Emmy Lou exchange glances and smiles as I peer inside.  There are pads, pencils, chalks, crayons - everything I could need to draw.

 

 

 

"So how did you survive on the streets?"  Debs asks coming to sit next to me when Emmy Lou leaves to go back to work.  "May I?"  I nod.  Shit honey these are really good!"  She looks through my ever present pad.

 

 

 

"That's how I survived. In summer, I do portraits but in during the winter, it gets too cold and..."

 

 

 

"When in the hell did you draw that?"  She demands looking at the picture of her with the coffee pot smiling at Carl.

 

 

 

"That's just the basic outline; it's not finished yet."  I blush. "You can have it afterwards if you want."

 

 

 

She nods enthusiastically and looks thoughtful.  "Honey I have an idea. Are you still staying at St Peters?"

 

 

 

"No, I'm also going to be the night watchman at Slick's place, so I'll be there.  Why what's your idea?"

 

 

 

"Need to talk to someone first..."  Suddenly she grins.  "Hey Teddy, coffee right?  Great.  Have a seat.  Ted this is Justin, Justin this is Ted, he works with Brian."

 

 

 

TED

 

 

 

I slide in opposite him and just stare at Justin. He's beautiful and yep I can see why Brian fell hard.  When Ems told me about him, I was sceptical but now I definitely see it. And I can see the fun we are going to have keeping Michael out of the loop.

 

 

 

"Aha.  Justin, nice to meet you at last."  I smile at him and shake his hand.  "Ems has filled me in."

 

 

 

The door opening not only brings in a draft but a group of twinks chattering away and Slick.

 

 

 

"Did you hear?  About Kinney and the conga fuck at his loft?"  One asks breathlessly.  "I would have loved to have just been there let alone in the line!"

 

 

 

Justin's face falls and immediately Slick heads to their table.  Ten minutes later she's back with a face of fury.

 

 

 

"Michael has spread a rumour - and it is just that a rumour - especially as it was supposed to have happened on Saturday night."  She smiles at Justin.  "I've squashed it."

 

 

 

BRITIN - LATE AFTERNOON

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

I never thought that client would leave.  I pour myself a glass of beam and am about to head to my study when my phone rings.

 

 

 

"Hey, you've got perfect timing!  I've just finished.  How's your day been and how's my car looking?  Oh I see.  No...what?  No say that again.  Ah you've met and he thinks you're a...and he's said that I did what, when did you hear this?  Okay, well you and I both know that's not true, so it doesn't matter what he says.  Look I'm just going to clear up from my meeting and I'll call you back, in about half an hour.  Okay later."

 

I'm looking forward to dinner and I can bring a guest apparently... wonder what Slick is doing.

 

 

CHAPTER 8: MIXING

 

 

 

SLICK'S WORKSHOP - TUESDAY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I never thought it would say this but I'm thoroughly enjoying working on this car.  Not just because it's Brian's but because it's fun.  Cujo is so patient with me...he never knew his nickname is from a movie about a rabid St Bernard...and we're waiting for the base to dry.

 

 

 

Brian had to go to Chicago at the last minute so won't be back until tomorrow around late afternoon or early evening.

 

 

 

"So that's the colour that he wants on the car?"  I look at the shirt and remember his face when I tried it on.  Slick nods and sighs.  "What's up?"

 

 

 

"Idaho's not back until Wednesday afternoon now so won't start on it until Thursday which means Saturday return, and I know he wanted it back before then because..." she trails off looking guilty.

 

 

 

"Because?"  I prompt.  "Come on tell me..."

 

 

 

"The first meal is next Saturday."

 

 

 

"First meal?"  I echo.  "Oh what the dinner that he's sponsoring... that's next weekend?"

 

 

 

She nods and twists her lip.  "And in honour of your meet up, he wanted to take you in this.  I don't have the skills to mix the paint..."

 

 

 

"I can do it.  Well I can try."  I look at the paints and start to mix them.  "It's no different than mixing paints for abstracts."  I mutter and for the next twenty minutes I concentrate on making it perfect.  "Well you know what...I think that's pretty much as near as I can get it."

 

 

 

Mac whistles in approval.  "Yeah gonna give Idaho a run."  He tests the base.  "Yeah tacky enough for it to seal, let's get the first coat on."

 

 

 

CHICAGO AIRPORT HOTEL - LATE EVENING

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

White & Acre have signed!  I'm so fucking happy. That's another $20 million to Kinnetic.  I've just had my shower when a text comes through:

 

 

 

Justin: you know it's all about that base, about that base, first coat on, it's all about that base, about that base.

 

 

 

Me: okay what are you talking about?  Are you high?

 

 

 

Justin: no twit!  Riffing on All About that Bass by Meghan Trainor.  The base and first coat are on and we're doing the rest tomorrow

 

 

 

Me: Idaho's back, what do you think of him?

 

 

 

Justin: No he's not and it wasn't Mac or Steve or Cujo

 

 

 

Me: So who did the mixing? Please don't tell me it was Bell?

 

 

 

Justin: ah so I shouldn't have asked him, there was nobody else there...

 

 

 

Me: Justin!  Tell me that Bell didn't touch my car!

 

 

 

Justin: I, ah, can't tell you that...

 

 

 

Me: JUSTIN!

 

 

 

He doesn't reply for two minutes and I know he's doing it deliberately but I can't bear it and I quickly dial him instead.

 

 

 

"JUSTIN!  If Bell has touched my car I will..."  His giggle stops my queen out.  "Ah, someone's been talking have they?"  I smile into the phone.  "So come on who did the mixing?  Come on just tell me!"  He does and I am stunned into silence.  "You did?  Wow, I can't wait to see it now.  So what else have you been up to, no more run-ins with Michael?  Oh wait, I've got a call from Lindsay I better take this.  I'll call you back straight after."

 

 

 

MEL & LINDSAY'S HOUSE

 

 

 

LINDSAY

 

 

 

Mel and Jenny are still annoyed with Michael and I've been trying to smooth over the ruffled feathers but Jenny is not budging on apologising and it's going to make the atmosphere a little uncomfortable to say the least.

 

 

 

"Brian it's Lindsay, no nothing is wrong with Gus.  Well it's Jenny and Michael; they're still not talking.  Well she won't apologise and he won't speak to her until she does.  I wondered if you could have a chat with her to get her to back down.  I know it's nothing to do with you but come on you're virtually her second father...thanks Brian.  See you on Saturday."

 

 

 

I smile to myself but then that drops when I see Mel's expression.  "Wow you just had to involve him, didn't you?  It's nothing to do with Brian. This is between Jenny and her dad and..."

 

 

 

"Mel the atmosphere is going to be awful if she doesn't apologise.  And..."

 

 

 

"Lindsay, he was wrong, do you understand that?  She has nothing to be sorry for. Why are you siding with Michael on this?"

 

 

 

"He's the parent and..."

 

 

 

"That doesn't make what he says right."  She sighs heavily.  "He was insulting about Slick and you know how Jenny feels about her."

 

 

 

"Yes indeed I do but you have to admit that Slick can come across as somewhat coarse."  I remember wincing when he described Slick as common.  "Anyway, let's hope Brian can talk some sense into her.  I'm looking forward to staying at Britin..."

 

 

 

"Britin?"  She looks concerned and then resigned.  "We're not staying there remember.  We are going to Ben and Michael's because they have moved into a new house too and the kids are staying there, as there's more to do on that side of town for them."

 

 

 

"When was that decided?"  I demand peevishly. I was looking forward to going to Britin. None of us have seen it yet, well for accept Ted.  "I don't remember that being decided."

 

 

 

"You and Michael were probably too busy micromanaging Brian's life to listen when we were discussing it.  And we're not changing plans...we're staying with Ben and Michael and doing Britin when Brian invites us, not when you two invite yourselves."

 

 

 

As she walks out I put in a call to Michael.  "Michael, it's Lindsay..."

 

 

 

KINNETIC OFFICES - WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

TED

 

 

 

Brian is beaming and I don't think it is completely to do with the contract we signed. We got back earlier than we thought we would.  So we're now on our way to the diner for an early dinner and I think he's going to be going to check on his car of course...

 

 

 

DINER

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I can't believe that mother has a date with that cop!  And who did I hear it from? Not her but Kiki, who took great pleasure in telling me.  I'm waiting for her to arrive so that we can discuss this.

 

 

 

And I'm also cross that Ben and Mel decided to have everyone at our house over the weekend.  We will be entertaining twice in a week now, not that I'm complaining as our neighbours are a delight... much better than the ones I used to live around. But I, like Lindsay, wanted to see Britin. I still can't believe that Ted got to see it before me!

 

 

 

I should really be in the comic book store but it's been a quiet start to the week so I might as well stay here.  I'm contemplating how to bring up this dating potential fiasco when Ben and Hunter join me.

 

 

 

"Hey what you doing here thought you would be at the store?"  Ben goes to kiss my mouth but I turn my head.  He sighs.  "What's wrong now Michael?"

 

 

 

"When were you going to tell me about everyone staying at our house this weekend instead of us going to Britin?"  I pout and fold my arms.

 

 

 

"Why should he tell you about something you suggested?"  Hunter frowns at me and signals Kiki who comes over with coffee for Ben.

 

 

 

"Oh yes. Thanks Hunter, well remembered."  Ben smiles at him while I grimace. My grimace turns to an even bigger one when Slick and that kid come in and Ben waves them over. "Ben what are you doing?"  I demand.  "We're discussing family issues that I don't want to share with everyone."

 

 

 

"Hey Slick and do I get to find out your name? Michael mentioned that you are doing your penance for the disservice to Brian's car."  Ben chuckles at the kid's blushing.  "I'm Ben and this is my, uh son, Hunter and of course you know Michael."

 

 

 

"Hi I'm Justin.  Nice to meet both of you."  He smiles at everyone but me and Slick is glowering more than usual.

 

 

 

Kiki beams at the door and comes over.  "You guys need to grab the back booth quick, Brian and Ted have just come in and I think I hear the trill of Ems!"

 

 

 

Hunter gets up and grabs the booth and I make sure I remain standing so that Brian can slide in and I can sit next to him, he has stopped to speak to mother.

 

 

 

"Michael are you going to sit down or not?"  Emmett asks impatiently and after a minute he nudges me into the seat.  "I'll move when Brian comes if it means that much to you but in the meantime sit down."  He demands.

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

Okay mask of indifference firmly in place.  I saunter over and Emmy Lou gets up but I push him back down and end up sitting next to Slick, who's next to Justin Ted, and then it's Ben and Hunter then Michael and Emmy Lou.

 

 

 

"So Slick how's things going with my car?"  I ask stretching my legs out and resting my arm behind her head and giving his hair a gentle tug and let my fingers trail down the back of his neck before draping my hand on Slick's shoulder.  "Has he been doing a good job?"

 

 

 

"He's..."

 

 

 

"Oh so you've already let him loose on that, are you sure that's wise?"  Michael interrupts.  "Maybe it should be best left to the professionals.  You know how fussy Brian is about his cars you wouldn't want to have to do it again."

 

 

 

"From what Mac's said and the picture of the 2nd coat is anything to go by I don't know why I came back."  I look up and grin at Idaho.

 

 

 

"Idaho sweetheart when the hell did you get back in?!"  Debs sweeps him into her arms before holding him at arms-length.  "Sure you should be back so quickly?"  He nods and once he's free he sits next to Emmy Lou.

 

 

 

"Hey, glad to have you back. Sorry about your dad." I tell him and shake his hand.  "Oh let me introduce you to everyone from Slick onwards, who you have a rough idea who it is.  Justin, who's doing my car.  Ted, Ben, his son Hunter, Michael and Emmett.  Guys this is Idaho."

 

 

 

"Hi, sorry about your dad too."  Hunter offers his condolences and the others round the table nod, which he acknowledges with a small smile.

 

 

 

"Why are you sorry? You don't know him, let alone his dad," Michael scolds him, earning him a glare from Ben.  "I'm just asking..."

 

 

 

"Because it's the polite and kind thing to do!"  Debs admonishes him with a glower and he's lucky he's out of slapping distance.

 

 

 

 

 

"So you're the one who's on the phantom? Nice job so far."  Idaho smiles at Justin who beams at him.  "Keep this up and you may be the only one apart from Slick and I that are allowed near his cars."

 

 

 

"Oh I'm pretty sure Justin won't have a problem working out how to tune Brian's engines...with Slick's help of course."  Emmy Lou grins into his cup when Justin snorts into his milkshake.

 

 

 

"So do I get to see it?  You know to give my approval of the work so far."  I ask Slick

 

 

 

"Yeah it..."

 

 

 

"Nah Slick he doesn't need to come all the way out there to see a coat job, me and Justin will work on it and it will be fine. I know what you like."  Idaho waves away the suggestion and is oblivious to the hard stare Slick is giving him.

 

 

 

"No, you know what I think Brian should come and look at it and besides the corvette needs..."

 

 

 

"What's wrong with the Vette? It was fine the last time I looked at it.  You been grinding the gears again?  Like I said you don't have to make a special trip for that, it'll be fine."

 

 

 

"Can you let me out for a minute Brian?  I just need to check something."  Slick mutters casting a look at Idaho who is comparing shirts with Emmy Lou.

 

 

 

I watch her head outside and try not to smile when Idaho takes out his phone and frowns and then he looks at her when she returns but says nothing; she waves me to move in next to Justin.

 

 

 

"Sorry about that, had to make sure that one of my engineers was following instructions.  So Brian you were saying you wanted to see the paint job on the phantom and look at the Vette for the detailing right?"  She asks with a ghost of a smile playing round her lips.

 

 

 

"Yeah please, you know how fussy I am and..."

 

 

 

"Oh Brian about the dinner tomorrow night, are you still coming?  Ted what about you? Will you be bringing Blake?"  Michael interrupts again.  "You'll be meeting all our new neighbours; you could make important contacts."

 

 

 

"Ah yes Michael, indeed I will be coming.  I'm looking forward to it.  My guest is undecided as yet but it will be an entertaining evening.  I'm sure."  I smile at him.  "A bit like your ma's. She's got a date with Carl, uh that cop."

 

 

 

His face darkens and he turns to get Debs' attention and when she comes over he immediately launches into a tirade.  "Mother how could you arrange a date with that man?  He's obviously a poor judge of character."  He looks meanly at Justin and we all wait for him to realise what he's just said.

 

 

 

"Thanks Michael that's just wonderful of you."  She sneers.

 

 

 

"See..."  He is about to continue smugly when Ben leans over and whispers in his ear.  "No that's not what I meant. I meant his judgement in Blond twinks!"  He tries to backpedal.

 

 

 

"As much as I would love to watch you dig yourself out of that bog you've flung yourself into Michael. I have to get GGK's car critiqued and I suspect that Justin will be working long and hard into the night to get it to his exact specifications."  Slick guffaws and stands.  "Come on Justin let's get the judgement over with."

 

 

 

"Okay guys nice to meet you, I'll come with."  Idaho stands too.  "I've got nothing to do I might as well come back and put some time in.  Just let me hit the bathroom and I'll join you in a second."

 

 

 

I want to scream with frustration and I hear a little groan from Justin.

 

 

 

"Seems I need to send another text..."  Slick grumbles and pulls her phone out.

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

Me: Idaho for the love of fucking God sit down and leave me to this!

 

 

 

Idaho: uh why?

 

 

 

Me: because I will fucking fire if you take a step out of this diner okay!

 

 

 

Idaho: why you and Brian got something going on?

 

 

 

Me: IDAHO!!!!

 

 

 

Idaho: Okay, okay, question is Emmett single?

 

 

 

Me: grrrrr!!

 

 

 

Idaho saunters out of the bathroom and slides back in next to Emmy Lou who grins happily.

 

 

 

"I thought you were going to check on his work?"  Michael demands rudely.

 

 

 

"Nope, I've decided to find out about Emmy Lou, Slick knows what she's doing and Bri trusts her.  After all she was right about the colour of the Vette."

 

 

 

"Yeah time to go.  I have to get other stuff done.  Can we go Slick?"  Brian interrupts quickly.

 

 

 

"So Brian...he prefers Brian by the way."  Michael snarks.   "I'll call you this evening to talk about this weekend.  Okay?  And you've still not told me what happened to the Vette that you had to get it repainted."

 

 

 

Brian nods and we start to leave.

 

 

 

"Oh hey you three, wait up!"  Debs calls out.  "Lemon bars.  Justin you've got to take some and maybe the apple pie, yeah..."  She looks contemplatively at him.  "Ems why don't you take them to your place and give them some of the mousse..."

 

 

 

"Debs!  Darling sweet Debs I have an order I really need to work on so if you could box it up..."  I begin before Brian kills someone.  "Quickly.  And maybe Emmy Lou can give Idaho the mousse later and he can bring it into work tomorrow; that's okay right?"

 

 

 

Emmy Lou smiles knowingly and then nods.  Another agonising 10 minutes later we have the bars and pie and head back to the truck with Brian, grumbling he's waited this long he can wait until they are at least comfortable to get reacquainted.

 

 

 

I wasn't stupid enough to get between them and the apartment door.

 

 

 

SLICK'S LOUNGE

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

Oh God he feels so good.  How can it only have been less than a week?  He tastes of chocolate and lemons as he had one of the bars on the way back and I'm not sure what happened to the pie, I think he dropped it, when I pulled him into my arms.  His groan of relief was all it took and I was covering his mouth with mine.

 

 

 

He has the most perfect ass and it feels so good in my hands.  He's currently wrapping his legs round my waist and his hands are in my hair.

 

 

 

He slowly lets my bottom lip out of his mouth giving it a gentle nibble before soothing it with his tongue to stop the gentle sting.

 

 

 

"I never thought we would get out of there."  I groan.  "I could happily have killed Idaho."

 

 

 

"Me too but not as much as I want to slap Michael."  He muttered licking my earlobe.  "Sorry but your best friend is a wanker and I don't use that word often.   Um please don't be offended but you weren't thinking of inviting me to his dinner were you?"

 

 

 

"No, God no, Slick's coming with me.  Now enough talking more kissing."

CHAPTER 9: DEFENCE

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

"Definitely a lot more kissing."  I murmur before his warm mouth covers mine.  God this man can kiss!  I feel a frisson of pleasure as he sucks my tongue into his mouth and starts to deepen the kiss.

 

 

 

SLICK'S WORKSHOP

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

They've been in there for 20 minutes and we're going to lose the light. As happy as I am that they've met, he's supposed to be working on the car.  Time to be a boss...heading upstairs I rap sharply on the door.

 

 

 

"Justin come on."  I call.  "Brian needs to see the car and it's best in daylight."

 

 

 

The door opens and a sheepish but thoroughly kissed Brian and Justin come out. I say nothing but wave them ahead.  "Just in case,"  I tease and get a finger from Brian.

 

 

 

We head through the workshop and out to the court where the car is currently sitting with Mac setting up for a third coat, which I think it needs. Brian's very particular, as we all know, and Justin is looking nervous, starting to bite his lip.

 

 

 

He circles the car inspecting it thoroughly and quietly.  "I think two more coats should do it."  He declares and smiles at Justin.  "Not bad for a first time, not bad at all."

 

 

 

Justin lets out the breath he was holding and puts on the safety equipment and gets back to work as Brian and I head to the office.

 

 

 

OFFICE

 

 

 

"So did you miss him?"  I tease earning yet another finger.  "Seriously, two fingers in one day; surely you can do better than that."  He pokes his tongue out instead before grinning and nodding.  "Good I'm glad."

 

 

 

I wave a bottle of Beam at him and he nods.  "Look, about Debs and Carl - the cop - she'll be fine. He's a good man."  He quirks an eyebrow.  "Known him for about 12 years, straight as they come but does sometimes need an attitude adjustment. He doesn't understand the gay lifestyle but I think Debs is the one to teach him..."

 

 

 

"How'd he end up on Liberty Avenue then?"  He asks taking a sip of his drink whilst I find the desk interesting.  "Slick, what have you done?"

 

 

 

"Nothing, I did nothing!  Well, he may have kind of spotted Debs out one day and then happened to see me talking to her and all I did was point him in the right direction..."  he looks at me quietly.  

 

 

 

"And?"  I shrug and then giggle.  

 

 

 

"And that's it I swear...and well maybe she can learn from him.  Now onto more important things, how far can I go tomorrow night?"

 

 

 

FORECOURT

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

Not bad!  Not bad!  I think to myself, that's damn near perfect and he says not bad!  I know I'm being a brat about this but not bad...seriously!

 

 

 

I was so engrossed in pouting and spraying that I didn't notice anyone behind me and leapt about 15 feet in the air when Mac touches me on the shoulder.

 

 

 

"Jesus fuck!"  I scream.  "Don't do that!"  He laughs and I switch off the spray gun.

 

 

 

"Sorry, I've been calling you for the last five minutes." He's still grinning as I try and get my heartbeat back to normal.  "So what'd he say about the car?"  He asks and I sigh.  

 

 

 

"Not bad for a first time, not bad at all."  He looks confused at my response.  

 

 

 

"So?"

 

 

 

I cross my arms.  "I thought it was better than not bad that's all."

 

 

 

He starts to laugh and then calls Cujo over.  "Guess what Brian said about his car?"  

 

 

 

Cujo shrugs and when he tells him he smiles and claps me on the shoulder. "Nice,"  he replies and goes back to working on the Porsche.

 

 

 

"Have I missed something?"  I prompt Mac.  

 

 

 

"Not bad is Kinney-speak for excellent."  He replies with a smile.  "So keep that up and if you get a good...that means perfect."

 

 

 

"Oh!"  I beam and have to resist the urge to hug him.

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S - EARLY EVENING

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

Hunter and I exchange glances as Michael continues to huff round the kitchen.  I've been with him for over 3 years and considering how hard we fought to be together, I find myself really pissed off with what he said about Carl.

 

 

 

"Can you believe that she refused to cancel the date?"  He slams down a pan and the noise jars round the room.  "Where's he going to take her? A donut shop?  And of course Slick knows him and..."

 

 

 

Hunter takes the pan off the fire and stares at him.  "What the hell is your problem with Slick?  She's a great lady and..."

 

 

 

"Lady?  Her?  As if!"  He snorts.  "If you must know Hunter, Slick is the product of a broken home and of course she's caused problems between Jenny and me..."

 

 

 

This is the first I've heard of it. I knew they weren't speaking but not why.  "What did Slick do?"

 

 

 

Jenny is very fond of Slick. She gets the tomboy side of her- which Michael doesn't- and she encourages her, like Mel does, to explore that side.  This is also why Slick and Lindsay don't get on too well either.

 

 

 

"Jenny took imbringe when I described Slick as being a bit too ghetto for..."

 

 

 

"Ghetto?  You described her as ghetto?  And what the hell is imbringe?" Hunter snaps.  "Do you perhaps mean ‘umbrage' as in to take offence?"  He drawls sarcastically.

 

 

 

I had to hide my smile in my coffee. Michael tends to use the wrong words and often at the wrong time. I have taken to calling him Mr. Malapropism, which, of course, he has taken as a compliment!

 

 

 

"Not ghetto I said she shows her ghetto side..."  Michael tries to defend himself.  "Anyway, this cop is just after one thing...and I'm determined that he's not getting that from my mother!"

 

 

 

With that he takes up his coat and stalks out.  "We should call Debs." I suggest but Hunter shakes his head.  "Nah let that shit hit his fanny."

 

 

 

DEB'S HOUSE

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

"Mother about this date, I forbid you to go."  She looks incredulously at me and then bursts out laughing.  "No mother I'm serious! You don't know anything about this man, he could be a murderer or something. And you are too old to date anyway!"

 

 

 

"Michael,  you're killing my mood now either be nice or leave...actually just leave."  She opens the door and glares at me.  I stare at her in surprise.  "Walk or fly, I don't care, just get the hell out of my house."

 

 

 

"How am I supposed to fly out of here?"  I snark holding my ground.  

 

 

 

"Simple, I shall kick you in that flat ass of yours sending you flying down those stairs...now get out!"  She barks.

 

 

 

Before I could say anything else she grabs me by the elbow and shoves me out of the door, slams it shut and then locks it.

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

Why the fuck can't he just let me be happy?!  Carl seems a really nice guy but maybe... just maybe Michael's right. I think I might cancel.  I was just about to call when my phone rang.

 

 

 

"Hi Ben, is everything okay?"  I have to admit that when they first got together I was worried because of his status but now that they've settled I really like him and Hunter, my not-lost-anymore boys...the only good thing about Michael Charles Novotny right now is them!  I love the way they have fitted into our little group.  "Yeah he's just left.  Ben, do you, do you think...well it's just that he said.  You're right, you are so fucking right!  Thanks Ben."

 

 

 

I put the phone down and head to my bedroom, time to get my clothes ready for my date.

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT - LOUNGE

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I've made a roast chicken with some vegetable rice.  I always loved to cook and looked forward to when it was my turn at St Peter's.  Brian had gone out to get the food for me whilst I was having a shower after Slick made me work until six to make up for lost time.  He's been working on something and judging by the muttering and grumbling, it's not going well.

 

 

 

"Problem?"  I ask and hand him a glass of wine, which he takes with a smile of gratitude.

 

 

 

"Can't get this to pop."  He replies with a sigh.  

 

 

 

"Can I have a look?"  He pats the space between his legs and I settle down and grimace.  "Oh I see." I study it for a few minutes before reaching for my bag and pulling out my pad and pencils.

 

 

 

Within 15 minutes, I've redrawn it and done some shading and colouring.  "There I think that's a bit better. If you shade behind it, in say like a purple or a blue, then the front colour will be more pronounced."  He holds my pad up and looks at it and smiles.  "Not bad, not bad at all."

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S HOUSE

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

I've listened to Michael rant for the last five minutes.  "Michael what right do you have to tell her who to date?  And despite what you said, he seems a nice guy and..."

 

 

 

"I have the right as her son!  Besides she's too old to be dating and all that it implies."  He shudders at that point.  

 

 

 

"All that this implies?"  I echo and then smirk.  "Oh I see. Well if and when that happens, it is their business and not yours.  As I said to Debs..."

 

 

 

"What did you say to my mother Ben?"  His tone is sharp.  

 

 

 

Not backing down, I fix him with an equally hard stare.  "I merely told her to take a leaf out of your book when we first started dating and you told her it was none of her business. Remember that?"

 

 

 

"A mother is supposed to stop that kind of thing. It's not seemly..."  He protests and then scowls at my snort of derision.  

 

 

 

"Not seemly or are you jealous?"  I query and then it hits me he is. He's jealous!  "Michael it's one date, not some great romance. They might go out tomorrow and decide they don't like each other and they might decide that they do. The only thing you have to do as her son is to be happy for her and let her be happy.  Just like she did for us...like she did for us at the start."

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT - LOUNGE

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"Can I look through your pad?"  I have been dying to see it since he told me about his love of art.  He nods and reaches for it.  We've just finished dinner and are on the couch and he turns to face me.  Slowly I leaf through it and stare in astonishment.  "Justin these are fantastic and...uh when did you draw that and when did I look like that?"

 

 

 

I turn the pad to him and the page of me with my head thrown back and my eyes closed and my mouth parted like I was gasping.  He blushes and then grins.  "Um after you went home...and after you um came."  

 

 

 

I look at it again.  "That's what I look like when I cum?"

 

 

 

He nods and smiles and then picks up a bowl of mousse I bought from Emmy Lou's.  Taking a spoonful he holds the spoon to my mouth and I allow him to feed us.  "Oh God that's so good."  I groan and he nods.  "I know I'm going to regret this but go get the other one."  He dashes to the kitchen and is soon back.  

 

 

 

"Oh wait, forgot the spoon."  He mutters and starts to get up.  

 

 

 

"No, sit down." Taking a finger full, I hold it against his mouth and he slowly sucks off the mousse and I feel my dick twitch.  "Cliché much?"  I mutter but he grins holding up a finger full.  As I eat the mousse, I hear his breath hitch and then he scoops another one. By the third finger full, I'm pretty sure he wants something but doesn't know how to ask.  "Justin...come here."  I tug on his shirt and he puts both legs round my waist.

 

 

 

"Do you want me to touch you?"  He shakes his head and I'm confused.  "Then what do you want?"  I kiss him gently.  

 

 

 

"I want to touch you."  I look at him in surprise.  

 

 

 

"Why?"  

 

 

 

He kisses me deeply and soundly.  "Lie back Brian."

 

 

 

Slowly I do as I'm told, his eyes never leaving mine and he stretches over me sliding his hand down to undo my jeans.  My heart is racing because I'm used to being in control but he gently kisses my nose.  "It's okay."  He whispers and takes my hand and slowly he starts to pop open my buttons, within minutes his hand is round my cock and he's kissing me again.  As he begins to stroke me I feel my eyes start to roll back with pleasure.  "Brian look at me.  You feel amazing."  He breathes.  "Like silk.  Warm liquid silk."

 

 

 

I can't stop looking at him, he thinks I'm amazing. Me as this one-balled wonder is amazing and I start to frown. I can't help those old feelings which surface every time I think about what used to be. Me...whole, vital, virile and...

 

 

 

"Stop it...stop whatever litany is going through your head; you are amazing."  I start to pant and groan, my other hand is kneading his ass.  All I want to do is feel.  "Brian...just let go."  He whispers in my ear.  

 

 

 

"Oh!  Oh fuck oh!  Oh yes Justin so good!"  I scream and almost buck him onto the floor.  

 

 

 

"Woah there Bronco Bill!"  He snickers grabbing at the table to save himself and I burst out laughing.  Who knew sex could be funny.

 

 

 

BEN AND MICHAEL'S - THURSDAY EVENING

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I'm so looking forward to this evening. I'm not going to think about mother and her rent-a-dick date but will be there to pick up the inevitable pieces when he's done with her.

 

 

 

"Emmett you have surpassed yourself. These canapés look great."  I look round the lounge and it really does look great. We're having cocktails in here and then dinner.  Most of my guests are here except Brian and his guest. I'm slightly miffed at him because he wasn't answering his phone last night; I tried him for at least an hour.

 

 

 

I find Ben who is talking to one of our new neighbours, Richard who is in banking.  "Excuse me Ben, sorry need to steal him away for a minute."  Ben looks concerned.  

 

 

 

"What's wrong?"  He asks.  

 

 

 

"Do you think I should call Brian again?"  He looks at me with something verging on pity.  

 

 

 

"Now Michael, when have you ever known Brian to be on time for a family dinner?"  I roll my eyes at him.  

 

 

 

"This is not a family dinner Ben, this is a housewarming dinner and he could've..."

 

 

 

"Hey Brian, how are you sweetie?"  I hear Emmett's voice and then see Brian. He looks great and I'm eager to see who he's brought as a guest. "Ooh and my favourite girl, Slick, come see what we have for dinner!"

 

 

 

Slick!  He brought Slick!  This is not who I wanted to introduce my neighbours to!  "Michael sorry we're late."  He says and then goes to say hello to Ben.

 

 

 

"Slick my dear girl come here!"  I turn to the voice and find Matthew one of our new neighbours who lives two doors down stopping Slick from following Emmett.  He pulls her into his embrace and gives her a sound kiss.  "Now then, who is that morsel of loveliness you bought with you?"  

 

 

 

She laughs at that.  "I didn't bring him, he bought me. That is Brian Kinney who runs..."

 

 

 

Matthew narrows his eyes at her.  "Kinnetic? That Brian Kinney?  Oh him I must speak to him, can you do the introductions?"  She nods and leads him to meet Brian.

 

 

 

"Michael?"  I continue to stare at Slick in disbelief as she takes over my party.  "Michael!"  Emmett's harsh whisper brings me back to earth.  

 

 

 

"What is it Emmett?"  I demand.  

 

 

 

"Uh I just heard something that might cause you a little problem..."  I sigh and finish off my drink before taking another.  

 

 

 

"The only problem I see thus far is my..."

 

 

 

Brian is at my side and glowering.  "Michael can I have a word?"  

 

 

 

I smile at him.  "Yes I would like a word with you too."  I lead him to the study and close the door.  "What the hell is..."

 

 

 

"Why have you been telling your neighbours that I had a conga fuck in my loft?"  He demands his face furious.  

 

 

 

"Is that all?!  You brought Slick of all people here, why?"  

 

 

 

He jams his hands in his pockets.  "Is that all...is that all?  Do you have any idea how damaging that kind of shit is to my reputation?"  He snarls.

 

 

 

I can't believe he's reacting like this.  "As the Stud of Liberty Avenue, it is not damaging at all. In fact, it has given credence to your legendary status and..."  He's just staring at me before he pinches his nose.  

 

 

 

"Not that you idiot, my business reputation!  That Richard guy who Ben was talking to... it was the first thing he asked me about when Ben introduced me. Do you really think that's what I wanted to hear about at dinner!  Thank God for Slick..."

 

 

 

I frown at him.  "What about Slick?  What does she have to do..."  I'm interrupted by a knock on the door and Ben sticking his head round.  "Sorry to interrupt boys, but Brian, Jeff would like a word.  He's got to go in 10 minutes but wanted to make sure to talk to you."  

 

 

 

Brian nods at him before turning back to me.  "If he asks me about the conga fuck you and I are going to have a serious fucking problem!"  He stalks out and Ben closes the door behind him and looks at me.

 

 

 

I sip my drink and sigh.  "Can you believe the way he's reacted to that? I mean he was being completely unreasonable!  You'd think that he'd be thanking me for it. His reputation in the gayborhood has been saved from whatever idiot upstart was trying to take his place last month. I think his name is Brandon or something but thanks to me, Brian's name is on everybody's lips again."

 

 

 

Ben leans back against the door.  "You behaved like a pimp and then wonder why he's pissed off.  But don't worry Slick set him straight and he apologised to Brian and hopefully the rest of the evening will go without a hitch.  Now let's go back to our guests."

 

 

 

I head to the kitchen to speak to Emmett who is chatting animatedly with Matthew, Slick and another of our neighbours, Griffin, who she is leaning against.  "Are you tired Slick? Don't feel like you have to stay longer than you should."  I smile grimly at her.  

 

 

 

"Brian's my ride Michael. If I go, he goes..."  She pats my face and leaves the kitchen.

 

 

 

I grind my teeth in frustration and turn to Emmett when he clears his throat.  "Dinner is 15 minutes away. We should get people into the dining room now."  

 

 

 

I nod curtly and paste on a smile.  "Everyone, let's go and sit so that Mr Honeycutt can serve up."  I lead them to the dining room.  "So we have name cards..."  I pause and look round the table, there are no name cards.  I look at Ben who shrugs.  "Uh well there were supposed to be..."  I begin.  

 

 

 

"Oh it doesn't matter, come on everyone just sit."  Ben instructs.  

 

 

 

"Yes but..."  I try again.

 

 

 

"Why don't you guys top and bottom and we fit round you?"  Slick suggests waggling her eyebrows.  I grimace once again at her humour and bridle at the laughter that followed.  

 

 

 

"So that means Ben's at the head then?"  Matthew chortles and looks at Ben who smirks.  "I knew it!"  He crows.

 

 

 

"Let's just sit down, shall we?"  I demand tersely and then look round.  "Where's Brian?"  Right on cue he comes in followed by Jeff who was supposed to leave 10 minutes ago and he's tucking his shirt in.  I smile into my glass.  "So Jeff are you staying?"  He nods.  "It's just that Ben gave me the impression you needed to be gone earlier."  He finishes his wine and dabs at his lips with a napkin.  

 

 

 

"I was but Brian persuaded me to stay."  Brian raises his glass to him and nods.

 

 

 

"And however did he manage that?"  I smile smugly.  

 

 

 

"As you know I work for a local newspaper and he's going to get me to cover the first of the dinners that he's going to sponsor and we had a quick interview, luckily my..."  

 

 

 

I chuckle into my glass. "An inter...wait Brian, you are still going ahead with those dinners?"  Ben shoots me a warning glance, which I ignore.  

 

 

 

"Of course, I am. It doesn't matter who the winner is. He's still due his winnings."  Brian rebukes me and I can't help myself.  

 

 

 

"But he's homeless and..." The table goes quiet.  

 

 

 

"Michael stop this.  He won fair and square and that's all that matters."  Ben cuts across me.

 

 

 

"Excuse me, but the guy who won is homeless? Wow that's some story. You never told me that part,"  Jeff exclaims.  

 

 

 

"It isn't my story to tell."  Brian grimaces.

 

 

 

I take another sip of wine.  "Well, I can tell you what happened."  I tell Jeff, who looks at me with interest.  "Yes, you see he entered an eating competition. Emmett did the food, and he ended up throwing up on Brian and..."

 

 

 

"Because he hadn't eaten so much in so long to go from nothing to that much in such a short space of time..."  Slick interrupts.  There are nods of what...sympathy? I'm holding in my scoff at the thought.  

 

 

 

"He must have been so hungry.  Do you think you could get him to speak to me?"  Jeff asks quietly.  "Obviously some people in that situation are..."  

 

 

 

I lean forward and clear my throat.  "He's at St Peter's the homeless shelter and his name is Justin Taylor - blonde, blue eyed and claims not to be a..."

 

 

 

"Michael!"  Ben exhorts.  "Enough!"  Nobody says a word.  "This is not your story to tell. You don't know his history or anything about him.  So stop."

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

I feel sick to my stomach.  I look at Slick who is radiating enough anger to power a small nuclear station.  "Uh Slick, look here..."  I stand and reach into my wallet to give her some money but she waves it away.  

 

 

 

"No.  I'm coming with.  Ben I'll see you.  Everyone else enjoy the rest of your evening."

 

 

 

As we head to the kitchen we see Emmett starting to decant the food into containers and muttering angrily, whilst wiping his eyes.  "Emmy Lou, you need some help?"  I ask quietly and he nods.  

 

 

 

"I've never been so ashamed of someone in my entire life, get me out of here."  We help him pack away the entire dinner.  

 

 

 

"Can we come with you?"  Ted asks and I nod.

 

 

 

DINING ROOM

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I'm glowering at Ben, who is now talking to another of our neighbours as if he hasn't just humiliated me.  After about 10 minutes, I wonder what's taking Emmett.  "Excuse me I just need to see what's taking so long."  I head to the kitchen and there is nobody there.  I look in the lounge and again that is empty.  I head back to the dining room and wave at Ben.  "Excuse me a moment."  He follows me out.  

 

 

 

"What?"  He demands.

 

 

 

I drag him back to the kitchen.  "Emmett's gone."  

 

 

 

He frowns.  "What do you mean gone?"  

 

 

 

I clench my fists in frustration.  "I mean gone and taken the food with him... gone!  What am I going to do?"  

 

 

 

He folds his arms and glares at me.  "Well one thing you need to do right now is either call a takeaway or end this farce but in future you need to think and then speak."

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT - LOUNGE

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

When Brian called and sounded so angry I was surprised but now that he's turned up with Ted, Emmy Lou, Slick and someone else with enough food to feed a small army, I'm worried.

 

 

 

"What's happened?"  I look round at them.  

 

 

 

"Justin sit down, oh this is Blake. He's Ted's partner."  I sit down and they tell me what happened at dinner and I am fucking furious. How dare he speak to someone about me?  I look at Brian but his expression is unreadable.

 

 

 

"Are you ashamed of me?"  I ask quietly and his head whips round.  

 

 

 

 

 

"What!  No of course not, no!"  I let out the breath I was holding as he pulls me into his embrace and kisses my temple.  

 

 

 

"Good. So now what do we do?"  I ask.  "Apart from eating all of that lovely looking food."  Within minutes the food is decanted and we are digging in.

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

I have never wanted to punch anybody with a Mack truck so hard in my life.  But as I look at Brian and Justin, it suddenly hits me.  And I start to smile.  "Okay what are you thinking?"  Ted asks.

 

 

 

"Come out."  I tell Brian.  

 

 

 

"Uh been out for years. You should know," he responds, sardonic wit firmly in place.   

 

 

 

I scowl at him and throw a roll.  "No doofus.  Let everyone know about Justin, including Michael."

 

 

 

"But why I thought..."  Emmy Lou objects and then smiles.  "Seriously, your ass-kicking knows no bounds!"  The others just look confused.  

 

 

 

"Emmy Lou hush. Let me get some wine and then I'll explain." Two minutes later, I'm back.  "Do you have any idea how respected you are Brian?"  He looks confused.  "Fucking as in actual fucking reputation aside, you are respected.  Everyone knows what you do on and for Liberty Avenue."  He blushes and tries to stop me.  "Hush, so let them help you to make a go of this.  Be open, to a degree that's comfortable for you and Justin about you and Justin.  He started the conga fuck rumour let's do the same but go with the truth and the first person we tell is Debs."

 

 

CHAPTER 10: DISAPPROVAL

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I gape at Ben and want to say something but right now I have a dinner party to salvage and head back to the dining room.  "I'm so sorry everyone but..."

 

 

 

Matthew glares at me.  "Well at least you apologised.  Didn't think you would."  I look at him confused.

 

 

 

"Of course I'm going to apologise for not being able to feed you. What kind of host would I be if I didn't?"  I chuckle but start to feel uncomfortable when he doesn't join in...in fact nobody does.

 

 

 

"I meant about the comments you made about that young man who won the competition. It wasn't your place and you came across like a bitchy queen."  Matthew scowls at me.  "So what's the problem with the food?"

 

 

 

I look at Ben who in turn looks away.  "There's a problem with the oven so Emmett had to go and find some..."

 

 

 

"Well that does it for me then.  I can eat at home with a takeaway of my choice. No offence guys.  Goodnight Michael.  Ben if you want to catch up next week for that coffee give me a call, okay?"  Matthew kisses his cheek and heads out and is soon followed by the rest of the table, leaving Ben and I facing each other in silence.

 

 

 

Ben sighs heavily, rubs his temple and drains the rest of his glass before gathering the plates.  "Well if Emmett thinks he's being paid for tonight he can think again!  And what happened to Brian? I'll bet he went to get his..."  The crashing sound of the plates make me jump.

 

 

 

"You really don't get it, do you?!  They left because of your behaviour!  You wanted this dinner so much, you fucking clean up!"  Ben snaps and stalks away.

 

 

 

CAFÉ DU JOUR

 

 

 

CARL

 

 

 

Well she cleans up real nice and she's got a lovely smile.  I'm distracted by all the nice things about her that I hadn't realised she'd asked a question.

 

 

 

"Carl?"  She repeats.  "Did you really see what you said you saw?"  I frown.  "You know about Justin?"

 

 

 

"Oh!  Yes I did.  Please don't take this the wrong way..." I pause.  "But your son came across as..."

 

 

 

"A pretentious dick?"  She suggests scooping up some pate.  "Christ this stuff is good."

 

 

 

"You really are something you know and that's a good thing."  I chuckle.  "When Slick..."

 

 

 

"Slick?  Has she been talking about me?"  She looks nervous and a little pissed.

 

 

 

"Yes but nothing bad. She just told me where you worked after I asked her."  She looks curious and waves her hand for me to continue.  "We were covering a mur...crime just off Bakers Place when I first saw you. Then a couple of days later, I saw you and Slick talking and asked her your name..."

 

 

 

"Ah I see and how do you know Slick?"

 

 

 

"How everyone knows her...cars.  I have a little project in my lock up that she helped find and we've been friends since."  I smile at the memory of Slick calling me to say she's found the car of my dreams, my ear was ringing for about an hour afterwards.

 

 

 

"And how long have you been doing this project?  And do you need a grease monkey?"

 

 

 

"On and off about 12 years and I'd love to see how good you are with a wrench."

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT - LOUNGE

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

"Brian, if you don't want to tell anyone about us, it's fine."  The room goes quiet and Brian sighs heavily.  "Honestly its fine, I'm..."

 

 

 

"It's not that I don't want to tell anyone and I agree that we should let Debs know first."  He sighs again.  "It's just if we go to the diner being..."

 

 

 

"Excuse me but have you ever known me to come with a half-assed plan?"  Slick grumbles.  "I was going to suggest you start from the dinner next week."  She leans back against the sofa looking very smug.  "But of course start planting the seeds from say next Thursday or so...what do you think?"

 

 

 

"Not bad, not bad at all."  I grin at her and then squeal as Brian digs into my side.

 

 

 

DINER - FRIDAY LUNCHTIME

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

I'm trying not to watch the door waiting for Carl to come in.  When the bell goes, it's Slick and she makes a beeline for me but I point in the direction of an empty booth.

 

 

 

"Sit and tell."  She demands beaming at me; I scoff and pour her a coffee.

 

 

 

"So I had an admirer and you didn't tell me about this?"  I tease her as she mock-glowers at me and huffs an impatient breath.  "Okay it was really nice. We talked about family and friends and I'm going to have to be taught how to use a wrench so I don't make a fool out of myself."

 

 

 

"He's going to let you help on his car.  Girl, I need to bring you some overalls!  Oh can I order a steak burger, fries and onion rings for Justin and my usual."

 

 

 

"Sure great. Is it to take away?  For Justin I mean."  She shakes her head.  "Good I need a word with him. I think I might be able to help him art wise."

 

 

 

Right on cue the man of the hour comes in followed by Carl, who takes a seat by the counter and winks at me.  I ignore the snickering from Slick and put their order in.

 

 

 

"So how are you this fine day?"  I ask pouring him a coffee.  "Oh Justin do you want a hot chocolate or a milkshake?"

 

 

 

"Hot chocolate please. This slave driver has me working outside today!"  He pouts and dodges the punch to his shoulder.

 

 

 

"Fine, fine, how about you?" I turn back to Carl.

 

 

 

"Unfortunately, I have to get in the office soon so it will be a takeaway, so can I have..."

 

 

 

"Your usual bacon sandwich with a sunny side up fried egg on whole-wheat.  And I'm in a good mood today...oh well I was."  I sigh as the door heralds the arrival of Michael, who takes one look at us and sits in the booth next to Slick and Justin.

 

 

 

"You go deal with him. I'll call you tonight."  Carl gives my hand a quick squeeze.  "Talk to you about seven okay?"

 

 

 

I nod and head towards Michael's booth.  "This is a bit big for just one person isn't it?"  He says nothing but just glowers at Carl's back.  "Well as death stares go this would definitely be a crime scene."  I try again.

 

 

 

"If you must know mother, I'm waiting for Emmett. He owes me an apology..."

 

 

 

"No on both counts.  You aren't waiting for me since we made no arrangements to meet up and no I don't owe you an apology."  Ems snaps at him as he sweeps by.  "Sweetums, shift along...have you ordered?"  He asks Justin who nods.

 

 

 

"Okay what's happened?"  I demand.  Nobody says anything.  "I asked what's happened and one of you will tell me."

 

 

 

"Funny how quiet you've suddenly become, isn't it Michael, when you were oh so chatty last night."  Ben snipes as he slips in besides Michael.  "Have you done it yet?"  He demands.

 

 

 

Michael starts to go red. "Ben, can you tell me what's going on?"  I order.

 

 

 

"We had a dinner party last night and Michael made some comments to a reporter about Justin..."

 

 

 

"Wait a reporter about me why?  What did you say?"  Justin exclaims turning to face him.

 

 

 

"Nothing that wasn't true. You did win the competition, you did barf on Brian and you are living at St Peter's. I don't see what the big deal is..."

 

 

 

"The big deal is that you are not Justin.  So once again, apologise to him."  Ben commands.

 

 

 

I've never seen Ben so angry and impatient.  Ems and Slick are both giving Michael dirty looks as he remains stubbornly quiet.

 

 

 

"It's okay Ben. I don't want it and he wouldn't mean it anyway."  Justin smiles at Ben.  "Debs, can we have this to go please?"

 

 

 

"Yes of course, but let me tell you about the GLC first."  I settle down next to Slick.  "You know your...can I help you Michael?"  I notice he started to lean in.  "Actually that booth down there is free, let's move there."

 

 

 

As we settle back down again, I tell Justin about the art show at the GLC and how I think he should enter a couple of his drawings.  At first he's reluctant to do so but with encouragement from Slick and Emmett he finally agrees.

 

 

 

"Debs their orders are up!"

 

 

 

"Okay coming."  I bustle to get it and hand it to them.  "Oh Justin have you got a number I can call you on to firm this up?"  He nods and writes it down for me and with a wave they leave.

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I AM SEETHING!  I cannot believe that Ben said that out loud!  He is concentrating on the menu that he's read a thousand times, when Hunter comes in and joins us.

 

 

 

"Hi guys. So how did last night's dinner go?"  He looks at the two of us.  "Okay I'm going to go with not well, so what happened?"

 

 

 

"Michael blabbed to a reporter about Justin and..."

 

 

 

"Why the fuck would you do that?"  Hunter hisses at me.  "You don't know shit about why he is homeless! He could be running away from someone who hurt him, you fucking idiot!"

 

 

 

"First, I don't appreciate your tone or language."  I snark.  "And secondly, aren't you being melodramatic?  It's not as if..."

 

 

 

"Actually he has a point."  I look up at the rent-a-dick and scowl.  "You should be careful about what you say about people.  Debs I'll talk to you tonight okay to organise that wrench lesson."

 

 

 

I watch him walk away and my mother blush and watch him leave, before she turns to me with fury in her eyes.

 

 

 

"So blabbermouth, what the fuck were you thinking?"

 

 

 

KINNETIC

 

 

 

BRIAN'S OFFICE

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"So let me get this straight.  Ben, the normally calm and Zen like Ben, called Michael out on being an ass to you and demanded he apologise?"  He nods round a mouthful of fries. I pinch one from his container then he feeds me an onion ring.  "Wow that couldn't have gone better if we planned it.  Didn't think he had it in him."

 

 

 

"And I don't think Michael will for a while either."  Emmy Lou burbles with laughter.  "Oh tell him the rest, tell him the rest."

 

 

 

"Debs has spoken to some people at the GLC and they have an art show in a couple of weeks and she thinks I should submit some of my..."

 

 

 

"Not that one!"  I exclaim and then cringe as they look at me in surprise and then she starts to smile.

 

 

 

"He's done one of you hasn't he and judging by that face it's a good one.  Can we see it, we promise not to tell anyone else we've seen it or what it looks like pretty please!"

 

 

 

Justin and I exchange glances before I nod.  He wipes his hands and takes out the pad and shows them.

 

 

 

"Yowsers," Emmy Lou gasps. "Okay I've seen you in action in the backroom and you've never made that face."

 

 

 

"Right you've seen it, now just leave it alone."  I grumble.  "So how's my car coming..."

 

 

 

"Coming."  Justin snickers before collapsing into giggles and he's soon followed by the pair of them.

 

 

 

"Oh God just leave!"  I grouch.  "Some people have to work you know!"

 

 

 

As they gather their stuff and leave they are still chuckling.  It isn't until I'm clearing the coffee table I notice that he's left the drawing and written ‘the amazing GGK by JT' on it and I carefully put it in my briefcase.

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S - SATURDAY EARLY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

HUNTER

 

 

 

I have been texting with Gus since they landed, to give him a heads up that a shitstorm has happened.  The last one I got from him was to say they were 10 minutes away and that his mom is in a bad mood too.

 

 

 

Ben and Michael aren't really talking after yesterday's argument but have decided to at least be civil to each other while everyone is here.  And speaking of everyone, there's the doorbell.

 

 

 

"Hey Uncle Brian!"  I give him a punch in the arm our standard greeting.  "They're five minutes away."

 

 

 

"Hey Hunter."  He strides in taking off his sunglasses. Only he could wear sunglasses in February and still look cool when there's no sun.

 

 

 

"Ice glare."  He explains.  "Where's the men of the house?"

 

 

 

I point to the lounge and after slinging his coat over the bannister he makes his way in.  I was about to follow when the door goes again. And they're here.

 

 

 

"Gus, Jenny, how are you guys; how was the flight?"  I give them hugs and start to help with their cases.  "Jeez Jenny you're only here one night!"  I tease her.

 

 

 

"Hunter when you've done that, you can help Lindsay and Melanie with theirs too," Michael orders coming out of the lounge.  "Lindz, Mel how are you both?  Jenny, aren't you going to greet me?"

 

 

 

There's a tense silence as they both hold their ground before she breaks into a smile.  He smiles back.  "Uncle Brian!"  She calls out coming down the stairs quickly and brushing passed Michael to give him a hug.

 

 

 

"Hey beautiful. You look gorgeous, so where have you hidden my..."

 

 

 

"Dad!"  Gus shouts and almost vaults over the bannister to get to him.  "I've missed you!"

 

 

 

"Uncle Ben, where are you?"  Jenny is calling.  "There you are!  I'm so happy to see you!"

 

 

 

"Hunter, the cases," Michael prompts.

 

 

 

"Michael, he's not a bellhop," Aunt Mel gripes.  "We can take our own cases. Hunter please show us the way."

 

 

 

I lead them upstairs and everyone is soon back down in the lounge but Aunt Lindsay is still quiet.

 

 

 

"Your home is lovely Michael and Ben but is there really enough room for us?"  Lindsay asks, sipping on her coffee.  "Wouldn't it have been easier for us to all have stayed at Britin?"

 

 

 

Ah now I see what the problem is. She wants to play Lady Muck and she's been cockblocked.

 

 

 

"It will be fine for one night."  Ben reassures her with a slightly strained smile.  "The kids don't mind sharing, do you?"  We all shake our heads. We've actually been looking forward to it.

 

 

 

"So what time am I picking them up to take them to Slick's?"  Uncle Brian asks.

 

 

 

"Slick's?  Who said anything about them going to see her?"  Michael looks around confused.  "They are here to see us and..."

 

 

 

"And their friends of which Slick is one," Aunt Mel reminds him sharply.  "And besides this was arranged at the same time this weekend was booked.  So Brian, I'd say about nine but have them back after lunch, so about three.  Then we can see Debs before our flight at eight."

 

 

 

"I don't remember any of this arrangement.  Do you Lindsay?" Michael snipes.

 

 

 

"No actually I don't either. The last discussion we had was that we were going to stay at Britin and..."

 

 

 

"Kids why don't you go upstairs and catch up."  Ben sighs.  "We'll call you when we're heading for dinner."

 

 

 

I have never been so relieved to leave a room in my life!

 

 

 

MEL

 

 

 

I try very hard not to slam down my cup.  "What the hell is wrong with you two?"  I glare at them.  "You're behaving like spoilt brats because you can't stay where you want. Where we stay is irrelevant. It is about being here as a family!  Now stop this shit right now! We're here deal with it."

 

 

 

"I was merely saying..."  Lindsay begins as usual.

 

 

 

"No, Mel's right," Ben interrupts, earning a scowl from Michael but he continues.  "This was agreed the last time we met up. In fact, we also had Slick on the phone for about 10 minutes to make sure she would be around."

 

 

 

"As I was about to say," Lindsay huffs, "There isn't enough room for Brian here. Where's he going to sleep?"

 

 

 

"At the loft of course. Where else would I stay when I'm in town?"  Brian is starting to get pissed off.  "Look can..."

 

 

 

"Are you sure that you won't be conga line fucking this evening?"  Lindsay bitches and then catches the expression on Michael's face.  "I-I mean..."

 

 

 

"Wow Michael. You have been busy, all the way to Canada."  Brian stands up and heads to the front door.  "Gus!  Sonny Boy, I'll see you at the restaurant, okay? Something has come up."

 

 

 

"Okay dad!"  I hear Gus yell before the door is banged close.

 

 

 

"Seriously what the fuck is going on with you two!"  I snarl.

 

 

 

EMMETT'S HOUSE OF FOOD

 

 

 

EMMY LOU

 

 

 

"Mousse.  The lemon one."  Brian growls out as he slides onto the stool.

 

 

 

I start to serve him up a double scoop and watch him brood.  "Okay, I thought you were with the kids this weekend and...oh wait what in the Sam Hell of a fuck have they done now?"

 

 

 

He snorts into his mousse, it's a start.  "Sam Hell of a fuck?"  I shrug and raise an eyebrow for him to continue.  "Michael told Lindsay about the conga line fuck in my loft. He knew it was a lie but he still told her."

 

 

 

"Brian, I'm sorry.  If it helps, it seems that Debs and Carl- you know the cop- had an excellent date and Slick's fitting her for overalls..."

 

 

 

He gives me a small smile.  "It doesn't but I'm glad for her.  Let's just hope next Thursday goes better than last Thursday did."

 

 

 

"Sweetums, of course it will.  You got me and Slick and soon you'll have Debs, who has always wanted to see you settled and happy."

 

 

 

"She has?"  He looks surprised.

 

 

 

"Of course as long as it wasn't with Michael. You're too good for him!"

 

 

 

I wipe the mousse he sprayed off my face and we burst out laughing.

CHAPTER 11: DISINGENUOUS

 

 

 

MEL

 

 

 

I clasp my hands together and press them against the bridge of my nose before looking at Michael again.  "What in the world possessed you to say such a thing...actually things?  There are times Michael that I despair of you."

 

 

 

Michael glares at me.  "Okay so the conga line fuck thing was wrong but what I said about that kid..."

 

 

 

"Was...once more not your place to say.   How many people have to say this to you before you take it on board?"  Ben growls.  "So you ladies are now caught up to speed on why Brian is mad at Michael."

 

 

 

"Brian is not mad at me. He's just... Besides look what he did with Jeff at the dinner party."  He crows smugly.

 

 

 

This time Ben looks confused.  "What did he do apart from an interview with him?"  Michael snorts with laughter.

 

 

 

"Really?  Since when does an interview involve tucking in your shirt when you come back into a room?"  He and Lindsay exchange smirks.  "And..."

 

 

 

"He's diabetic."  Ben sighs.  "And the reason he was tucking in his shirt was because Emmy Lou had given him a shot, whilst he was talking to Brian.  That's why he was going to go so he could do the shot at home.  But Emmy Lou said he could do it for him."

 

 

 

"Well I don't know about you but I'm going to freshen up for dinner."  I sigh and leave the room shaking my head.

 

 

 

THE LOFT - EARLY EVENING

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

I'm so pissed at Michael it's not funny but I know I have to calm down before I meet up with them again. I'm not having him ruin my time with Gus. I'm also disappointed with Lindsay because she just believed him straight away.  What I don't understand is why he felt the need to say it. Hopefully come Thursday, all this shit will start to end.  I grin at the thought of dinner with Justin next weekend and hope he's wearing his shirt and my cashmere sweater...that'd be hot!

 

 

 

"Down boy."  I murmur and head for a relatively cold shower.

 

 

 

SONOMA GRILL

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

This place is very nice.  "Brian, how'd you know about this place?"  I ask him. He looks up from his conversation with Gus.

 

 

 

"A client recommended it to me," is his curt reply and he goes back to talking to Gus.

 

 

 

"Jenny, how's your studying for your tests next week going?"  Ben asks.  "Which ones are they?"

 

 

 

Tests? What tests?

 

 

 

"Math, History and Chemistry.  All I can say is ugh!"  She sighs.  "But mom is helping and so is Hunter.  Oh can you help me with English? That one is the week after next. Can we FaceTime or Skype?"

 

 

 

"I didn't know you were taking tests Jenny; I can help too."  I offer. She looks up at me and sighs.

 

 

 

"Can someone remind him that we're not speaking until he apologises for what he said about Slick.  Actually, maybe he should apologise to Slick for what he said, which would be fun to watch."

 

 

 

"No, because if he did she's most probably knock him on his as...butt for it."  Hunter mumbles.

 

 

 

I shoot him a filthy look but before I can speak, Jenny gasps.  "Isn't that grandma?"

 

 

 

We all turn to look and sure enough there is my mother with that cop again. I manage to suppress my groan of annoyance.

 

 

 

"Who's that she's with?"  Gus whispers.

 

 

 

"That's a very nice man called..."  Ben begins to explain.

 

 

 

"Do you think they can join us, dad?  Can I go ask them?"  Gus begs Brian.

 

 

 

Brian frowns.  "Uh Sonny Boy, I think as they are on a date..."

 

 

 

"A date?  Then they have to come over!"  Jenny declares and before I can stop her she's up and heading to the table.

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

"Hi grandma!"  I whip my head round in surprise.  "Jenny!  Hey sweetheart, what are you doing here?"  I pull her into a hug.

 

 

 

"Having dinner over there.  Hi I'm Jenny, her granddaughter, who are you?"  She puts her hand out to Carl.

 

 

 

He smiles and shakes it.  "My name is Carl and it's nice to meet you."

 

 

 

"Would you like to join us?  We've got a booth and I'm sure they can make room."  She starts to tug on my hand.  I look apologetically at Carl who just chuckles and nods.

 

 

 

Once we are all settled and introductions are made, we order and there's a lull in the conversation.

 

 

 

"So how did you two meet?"  Lindsay asks.

 

 

 

"At the diner where I work. He had been enquiring about me." I smile at him and he goes red and everyone looks at him for an explanation.

 

 

 

"We have a mutual friend in common and I spotted them talking and wanted to know her name and where she worked."  Carl smiles.  "All strictly above board. Besides said friend would have my ba...badge if I hurt this lady."

 

 

 

"And who is this friend?"  Mel asks, eagerly, ignoring the eye roll from Michael.  "Actually let me guess...would she happen to know a lot about cars?"

 

 

 

I nod and hear the sharp intake of breath from Michael.  "Slick! Slick introduced you to each other?"

 

 

 

"No actually, we have you to thank for that," Carl corrects him and I frown.  "Don't you see Debs, if he hadn't been so charming about Justin then I wouldn't have had to defend him.   Therefore, I wouldn't have got my chance to talk to your ma, so thank you Michael."

 

 

 

I avoid eye contact with Ben, Brian and Hunter.  Mel finds her drink very interesting.  Gus, Jenny and Lindsay look a bit confused.  

 

 

 

"I'll explain later," Brian tells them as Michael glowers at me.

 

 

 

"So what are your plans for tomorrow?"  Carl asks Gus and Jenny.

 

 

 

"Oh we're going to see Slick. She's taking us to a...what's it called again dad?"  Gus asks.

 

 

 

"Teppanyaki.  It's Japanese.  Though she's letting them loose on a car first, which reminds me. I'll bring the toiletries so you can clean up before you guys go to lunch."

 

 

 

"They're going to be working on a car?"  Lindsay frowns but the glare from Mel suddenly has her smiling at him.  "Of course they are; I had forgotten. I'll make sure they have their toiletries."

 

 

 

Michael begins to say something but he too is silenced by a glare from Mel.

 

 

 

"Oh wow."  Gus breathes.  "This food looks awesome. Dad what did I order again?"

 

 

 

"Seriously Sonny Boy, what am I going to do with you?"

 

 

 

SLICK'S CAR EMPORIUM - SUNDAY MORNING

 

 

 

BACK LOT

 

 

 

JENNY

 

 

 

"Slick where are you?!"  I call out and then I spot her carrying a tin.  "Please tell me those are cashew nut butter and honey cookies?"

 

 

 

She cocks her head on one side.  "Maybe but they may also be ginger millionaire bars."

 

 

 

"Give.me.the.tin...please."  I beg and ignore her laugh as I rip it open and squeal my delight.

 

 

 

For the next couple of hours we work on the car we worked on the last time.  But every so often I spot a flash of blonde from the window and it is driving me bonkers.

 

 

 

"Hey is someone up there?!"  I call up.  Silence.  "You're really bad at hiding!"

 

 

 

"Not hiding just observing!"  A voice calls down.

 

 

 

"Well Mr. Observer, my name's Jenny. Who are you?"  At first, I don't think he will answer.

 

 

 

"Justin."

 

 

 

"Justin? Wait as in the Justin who barfed on Uncle Brian?"  Gus and Hunter, hearing my shouting, come in to see who I'm talking to.

 

 

 

"Uh yeah but..."

 

 

 

"Justin is that you?  It's Hunter. What are you doing up there? Come on down and meet some good friends of mine...Gus and Jenny."

 

 

 

"I uh...um okay.  Give me about ten minutes."

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

Shit, shit, shit and double shit!  I hadn't meant for them to notice me. They were working on the car and it was such a great scene.  I call Brian.

 

 

 

"Hey um, sorry to interrupt your day but I've been invited downstairs to meet some good friends of Hunter's, who happen to be Gus and Jenny.  No, it's not that... It's just I didn't want you to think that...oh okay, I'll go say hi then."

 

 

 

I go downstairs feeling slightly nervous but Slick just winks at me from her spot detailing a Lotus and mouths it will be okay as I head to meet them.

 

 

 

"Hi I'm Justin, you must be Gus and Jenny."

 

 

 

"Hi.  What's with the pad?"  Gus points at it.

 

 

 

"I like to draw..."

 

 

 

"Oh, I wish I could, want to help?  We're fixing up this VW Convertible so that I can persuade my dad to let me take it to Canada."

 

 

 

"You look so much like him."

 

 

 

"Everyone says that, can't see it myself."  Gus grumbles before grinning at me, "Oh can you draw me so he can keep it?"

 

 

 

"Sure, can you sit for about 20 minutes?"

 

 

 

He nods and smiles that Kinney smile.

 

 

 

DEBS - EARLY EVENING

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"So I take it you enjoyed the Teppanyaki experience?"  They have been chattering nonstop about the food, the restaurant and everything.

 

 

 

Jenny nods enthusiastically.  "And before that we worked on the VW with Justin, well..."

 

 

 

"Jenny."  Gus hisses.  "Remember what we discussed."  She grins and then nods.

 

 

 

"Well, while Justin worked on Uncle Brian's car..."

 

 

 

"Justin?  Justin was there?"  Ben looks surprised then smiles at me.  "Seems determined to pay his debt off doesn't he.  Sign of good character I think."

 

 

 

Michael's snort gets Mel's full attention.

 

 

 

"So what is the problem with Justin, you have Michael?"

 

 

 

"I don't have a problem with him pre se but..."

 

 

 

"Per se, it's per se Michael."  Hunter corrects him.  "And you do have a problem with him.  What I can't figure out is why, so why don't you tell us."

 

 

 

"I don't have a problem.  I just don't want him to take advantage of Brian with this meal thing..."

 

 

 

"How is it taking advantage of him?"  Debs sighs.  "It's a meal a month for 6 months, which is what he won fair and square. Where's the ‘taking advantage'?'"

 

 

 

"Well don't you think it's a little strange that a homeless guy entered that competition and conveniently is sick on Brian and his car?"  Michael begins in earnest.  "And, how come he now has a mobile phone for some..."

 

 

 

Carl had been sitting quietly up until this point clears his throat.

 

 

 

"Michael, do you remember how you met Justin?"  Michael says nothing so Carl continues.  "He was trying to return the money you dropped and you told him to beat it?  Well I told him about the competition so he most likely used the money to enter it and as for him having a mobile phone, he's working for Slick now and she provides all of her boys with mobile phones." He takes a sip of coffee.  "Seems to me you're looking for a problem with Justin where there isn't one."

 

 

 

I let out the breath I had been holding. I hadn't thought how Justin suddenly having a mobile phone would look.

 

 

 

"I still say there's something off about him."  Michael pouts.  "I'm just looking out for Brian's best interests as his best friend should."

 

 

 

Even Gus rolls his eyes at that.

CHAPTER 12: REALISATION

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT - TUESDAY LATE AFTERNOON

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

So operation ‘let everyone know' got derailed when Justin got a headache and Idaho gave him Tylenol without realising he is allergic  to it.  Needless to say, we went on lockdown until he got out of the hospital. Luckily, it wasn't too severe but it scared the shit out of us.  He now has a file in our office and Brian insisted he got a copy.

 

 

 

"Idaho, I'm fine honestly. You do not need to carry me to the sofa!"  Justin protests.

 

 

 

Idaho kicks the door open.  "No, I don't need to but I want to so let me do it, please?  I feel bad enough."

 

 

 

Justin groans and settles in his arms looking imploringly at me.  "Just let him get you to the sofa and Emmy Lou can talk him down.  Right Emmy Lou?"

 

 

 

Emmy Lou nods as Idaho puts him on the sofa and then he tugs on his arm.  "Sweetie you didn't know so stop beating yourself up about it.  He's fine. Now let Slick do her thing and you and I can have a drink so you can shout this out of your system...hmmm?"

 

 

 

Reluctantly, he lets Emmy Lou lead him out and as soon as the door is shut I hear the thunder of footsteps...here comes GGK.

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

When I got the call from Slick, I wanted to go to the hospital but she said it wasn't bad. He just needed a shot or a flush...can't remember which as I was panicking too much...and he would be fine.  But the rest of my day was for shit so I ended up going to the apartment and waiting there.  As I come through the door, I see Slick leave with a soft smile and a wave.

 

 

 

"Justin are you okay?"  I pull him into my arms and feel him tremble as I kiss the top of his head.

 

 

 

"Yes I'm fine.  I just didn't think."  He snuggles into my arms.  "But I spat it out quickly."

 

 

 

"What brought the headache on? Was it the paint fumes?"  I start to massage the base of his head and move onto his scalp.  "Justin?"  I prompt.

 

 

 

"No-not sure.  Oh that feels good.  I just...can we have this conversation after you've finished doing this marvellous thing to my head?"  He sighs and stretches like a cat.

 

 

 

"Sure."  I chuckle.

 

 

 

EMMETT'S APARTMENT

 

 

 

IDAHO

 

 

 

"I can't believe that I almost killed him!"  I'm pacing and Emmett is just gazing at me with a bemused expression.  "Okay almost killed is an exaggeration but..."

 

 

 

"Just a tad."  He snorts.  "Now come and sit down and taste this."

 

 

 

He pats the sofa next to him.  "What is it?"  I ask as I can't see or smell any food.

 

 

 

"Close your eyes and you'll find out. I promise you nothing bad is going to happen... Well I don't think so."

 

 

 

Slowly I close my eyes and wait; then I feel the soft press of his lips on mine and my eyes fly open and I pull back a bit.

 

 

 

"You kissed me."  I whisper awestruck.  "Uh huh, is this a bad thing?"  He queries his eyes dancing.

 

 

 

"No not at all."  I murmur as I pull him back into my arms.

 

 

 

Ten minutes later we finally come up for air.  "Well now that was great. I feel so much better but I do need to make some room."  I adjust my jeans and he grins that gorgeous gap toothed smile of his before we start kissing again.

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S - EARLY EVENING

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

It's getting harder and harder to listen to these days.  I'm not sure when I started to actually mind his constant attempts to be with Brian and talk to Brian but I do.  If he expended half the energy on our relationship or his store then I wouldn't mind.  Right now he's griping because he's not been able to get ahold of Brian.

 

 

 

"He said he would be in. I can't think where he would be...unless he's at Babylon but it's Tuesday and..."

 

 

 

"Michael, are you hearing yourself?"  I'm trying not to shout.  "Brian doesn't answer to you.  Do you tell him what we are doing every time?"

 

 

 

"Of course not. What we do is our business."  He huffs indignantly and rolls his eyes.

 

 

 

"And what he does is his.  Now come on let's go to Woody's. We've not had a date night for ages."

 

 

 

He smiles at me; we put on our coats and head out.

 

 

 

WOODY'S

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

"You grab a table, I'll get the drinks."  Ben nods and I head to the bar.

 

 

 

It doesn't take long to get served and I head back to him to find him talking to Ted and Blake.

 

 

 

"What're you doing here?"  I am surprised.

 

 

 

"Waiting for our table for dinner..."

 

 

 

I scoff after taking a sip of my drink.  "You're eating here? For a man of your supposed wealth Ted, you have surprisingly lowbrow food tastes."

 

 

 

Blake rolls his eyes at me.  "No we are not eating here, not that there's anything wrong with here.  We're eating at Nakama but thought we would stop off first. Our reservation isn't until nine."

 

 

 

"Wow Nakama? Now that is supposed to be good."  Ben comments sipping on his beer.

 

 

 

"Nine? Isn't that a bit late to be eating out on a school night?"  I bristle.

 

 

 

"We used to be partying at Babylon on a school night later than that."  Ted fires back.

 

 

 

Ben tips his beer in acknowledgement.  "So how was work today?"  I ask Ted.

 

 

 

He sighs and puts down his drink.  "Brian was out with clients before taking them to dinner. Does that answer your actual question?"

 

 

 

Ben looks at me and waits for me to answer.  "I was merely making conversation Ted..."

 

 

 

"Yes of course you were.  Come on Blake, the pool table is free."

 

 

 

Ben finishes his drink and puts on his coat.  "Where are you going? I thought it was date night."

 

 

 

He heads to speak to Ted and Blake then pauses at our table.  "You stay if you want to, but I'm tired."

 

 

 

BRITIN - WEDNESDAY EVENING

 

 

 

I've just finished FaceTiming with Gus who aced his test.  I was wondering why he kept asking about Justin and the reason is in my hand.  Before I left Justin, he gave me an envelope and said that I wasn't to open it until after I spoke to Gus.

 

 

 

I got a little choked when I saw what it was. It was a perfect portrait of Gus and he had written on it ‘To the best dad in the world love Gus.'  Like the other picture, I am going to get it framed but this one stays here.

 

 

 

I find myself reaching for my phone.  "Hey Picasso.  How are you feeling?"  His giggle makes me smile.  "Yes I did wait to open it and I love it, thank you.  So you haven't been overdoing it today have you after yesterday's scare?  I know, okay stopping now.  So what time are we meeting for breakfast tomorrow?  Okay see you then.  Later."

 

 

 

DINER - THURSDAY MORNING

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

Okay, here we go.

 

 

 

"Debs, hey my girl how are you?"  I call out sliding into the booth as she whizzes past me with a tray.  "Fine!  Be right there!"  I put my bait in place and wait.

 

 

 

Justin is the first to arrive. Of course she stops him straight away having heard about his brief hospitalisation.  As he finally slides into the booth, he grins at me and shakes his head; then leans towards me.  

 

 

 

"How we've managed to keep this away from her for so long is incredible considering..."  He giggles

 

 

 

"Incredible nor considering has nothing to do with it.  What goes on in my yard stays in my yard."  I wink at him; and then watch him light up as Brian slides in next to him.

 

 

 

"Good morning to you both, how are we today?"  He smirks.

 

 

 

Before we can answer Debs is at our table.  "Are you sure you're okay Sunshine?"

 

 

 

"Sunshine?"  We all echo.  

 

 

 

"Yeah you should've seen that smile just now.  So what can I get you, usual for you two and hmm...I think pancakes with blueberries for you and you give me a list of everything you're allergic to by tomorrow morning!"  She jabs her pencil at him and he nods quickly.

 

 

 

"Oh Debs, when's your grease monkey wrench date?"  I ask her.

 

 

 

She blushes and attempts to swat me round the head; we wait expectantly for her to answer.

 

 

 

"Sunday."  She replies shyly.  "Now that's all..."

 

 

 

"Oh good. Your outfit is under the table, so feel free..."

 

 

 

"So just hand it to me."  She demands.  "You're closer and I don't bend that well..."

 

 

 

"Don't let Carl hear you say that."  Brian chortles but stops when she scowls at him.

 

 

 

"Please Debs can you get it for me; I hurt my back yesterday."  I bat my lashes.  "And besides it's your outfit."

 

 

 

Sighing grumpily she kneels down.

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

I don't understand why she can't just reach down for the fucking thing. I mean it's...whoa!  Are they... they can't be...are they really holding...holding hands?!!

 

 

 

I slowly come up and look at all three of them, and when Brian winks my heart starts to beat a little faster.

 

 

 

"So Debs, can you come over to my apartment tonight say about seven to make sure that the outfit fits?"  Slick asks me and I'm trying not to grin my head off.

 

 

 

"Oh fuck yeah!"  I beam and scurry off to put in their order.

 

 

 

"Stage one complete."  I hear Brian sigh in relief behind me.

 

 

 

SLICK'S APARTMENT

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

Dead on seven there is a hammering on my door and then I'm almost run over by Debs.

 

 

 

"Where are they?!"  She demands, I just point to the lounge.  "Explain you two!  And you get me a glass of wine before they start.  You're in the shit with me too!"

 

 

 

"Red or white?"  I ask letting her ride out her storm.  

 

 

 

"Red, no white, actually bring me both and I'll see!"

 

 

 

"Debs are you...angry about this?"  Justin asks worriedly.

 

 

 

"Ang...angry? Are you kidding me?! I'm fucking delighted.  So tell me everything!"

 

 

 

By the time they've finished telling her, she's got tears in her eyes.  "So how are we going to keep this from Michael?"

 

 

 

"We're not."  Brian replies and we brace for the explosion, which doesn't take long.

 

 

 

"What?!  Are you crazy? He's going..."

 

 

 

"To have to get used to it. He's in a relationship. Why can't I be?"  He asks smiling softly at Justin.

 

 

 

"But...but he's going to...I mean, he'll be...look how he's been with me.  He'll be..."

 

 

 

"Cockblocked at every turn if we get Liberty Avenue on our side."  I interrupt.  "And who best to do that than you?  You've always said you wanted to see Brian happy and settled, so help him do it."

 

 

 

"We'll announce as it were on Sunday, before your date and then we deal."  Justin's determined tone gets him a kiss from Brian and I feel my heart squinch.

 

 

 

THE LOFT - SATURDAY EARLY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"So the POC, sorry plan of..."

 

 

 

"Campaign, its okay I speak ‘Slick'."  Justin snickers, I grin back and continue.  "POC is to have a quick interview with Jeff from Pittsburgh Out, take a couple of photos and then we eat."

 

 

 

He's wandering around the loft running his fingers over the furniture but being very careful of the wine he's carrying.  He stops when he sees his drawing framed.

 

 

 

"Same frame is at Britin with Gus's picture.  You have an amazing talent."  I put my arms around him.

 

 

 

"Thank you.  My dad didn't think so. He thought I should go to Dartmouth. That's another reason he kicked me out; I just wanted to go to PIFA."  He sighs sadly, then turns in my arms and shakes himself.  "No not being maudlin. Tonight is about good food, beautiful company and ooof..."

 

 

 

I push him against the wall and ravage his mouth. He groans and grabs a handful of my hair and my shirt and starts to climb.  He sure is limber.  I start to nip at his neck and ears and he tightens his legs about my waist.

 

 

 

"Brian.  Stop please stop."  He pants.  "O-or we-we're never going to get out of here."

 

 

 

I nod into his neck and he slowly slides his legs down.  "So um I need to use the bathroom and you need to tell me where we're going."

 

 

 

"Through there and Six Penn Kitchen...are you okay? You look a little flushed..."  I tease him.

 

 

 

"Yes I'm fine.  We just need to get ready to go that's all."

 

 

 

SIX PENN KITCHEN

 

 

 

JEFF

 

 

 

"So Justin, tell me a little bit about yourself."  After about 20 minutes and a few photos, I leave the restaurant feeling angry about three things.  One the injustice he suffered after the attack.  Two, how his dad treated him and three, how Michael behaved.  I think a quick word around our gayborhood is called for; let's see how he likes it!

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"Okay so what do you want to order?"  He's giving me his sunshine smile.  "What?"

 

 

 

He clears his throat and leans across the table and whilst stroking my thigh tells me; "Wings to start for me without the salad.  The calamari and rock shrimp for you.   And I thought we could share the confit cracklin' pork shank but change the mash for parmesan fries - it's a nice contrast of the soft meat to the hard fries.  And since you don't eat dessert, after seven, you can pick for me and...watch me eat it."

 

 

 

I watch stunned as he then calls over the waiter and places the order.  "So what am I having for dessert?"  I clear my throat.  "Six Penn ‘Circus' please."

 

 

 

"All excellent choices sir."  The waiter coos and pours us some more wine.

 

 

 

When the appetizers arrive, he looks up at me and then the waiter.  "Excuse me, does the restaurant have a problem with wings being eaten with fingers...I wouldn't want to apply the wrong etiquette?"

 

 

 

"No sir, not at all."  He smiles and walks away chuckling.

 

 

 

By the time we get to dessert, I've had to adjust myself...twice...I know he's messing with me for earlier and by rights I should be furious but I've never had so much fun with my clothes on.

 

 

 

I settle the bill and we head back to the Phantom.  "Where do you want to be dropped off?"  I send up a silent prayer.  

 

 

 

"The apartment please."  I nod with relief.

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

Any thought that I had gone too far has been disabused.  I'm on the receiving end of a tongue fucking kiss whilst being pinned to the inside of the apartment door.

 

 

 

"You teasing little twat, I should take you over my knee for that!"  He groans into my neck.

 

 

 

"You started it."  I hit back.  "Sitting in damp boxers was...I mean I..."

 

 

 

"Damp...?  You mean you...just me...wow."

 

 

 

"Yeah wow."

 

 

 

DINER - SUNDAY MORNING

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

As I whirl round the diner, I keep checking for their arrival.  I'm not sure how this is going to play out but judging by how relaxed but focused Slick looks, it's going to be just fine.  She is so very protective of Brian and now Justin.

 

 

 

The bell going again brings in Ben and Hunter and my heart sinks.  "Hey Debs how are...are you alright?"  Ben asks.

 

 

 

"Oh yeah honey.  Uh so what'll be for you three?"  

 

 

 

Ben looks confused.  "Three?"

 

 

 

"Yes...Michael?"

 

 

 

Hunter starts to snicker but is stopped by Ben's slightly amused glowering.  "Michael has food poisoning. He decided to try sushi and found it didn't agree with him, so it's just us two."

 

 

 

"Such a shame mind if I join you?"  Slick calls and slides in after Ben waves her over.

 

 

 

"Hey can we sit here too?"  Brian asks.  Ben nods and smiles.  "Hey you two how was dinner, where'd you go?"

 

 

 

"Great. We went to Six Penn Kitchen; the food was great but huge portions. We ended up taking some things home."  Justin beams.

 

 

 

"So what did you take home with you?"  Ben takes a sip of coffee.  

 

 

 

"Each other.  Ben, Hunter meet Justin...my boyfriend."

 

 

CHAPTER 13: DISBELIEF

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

The silence from Hunter and Ben as well as the booth next to us, is deafening.

 

 

 

"Cooee.   Mind if we..."  Emmy Lou trails off and looks round the booth.  "What?"

 

 

 

Ben and Hunter continue to gawp at Brian and Justin.  "Did, did you just say boyfriend?"  Ben gasps.

 

 

 

"Yes."  Brian replies.  "So shall we order?"

 

 

 

"Sure thing honey.  Slick, the usual for you?  Okay.  So what will the rest of you have?  Ben, Hunter you guys going to order?"  I demand.  "What is wrong with you two?"  I'm playing my part to the hilt. As long as I don't look at either Brian or Slick, I'll be fine.

 

 

 

Hunter slowly looks up at me.  "Brian just said that Justin is his boyfriend."

 

 

 

"He did?  When did this happen?"  I really try not to look at them as I sit down but I catch Brian's eye and that's it.  "I can't do this; let me tell them please!" I beg.

 

 

 

Brian nods, smiles and drapes his arm behind Justin.  Emmy Lou grins and Idaho just looks between the two of them.

 

 

 

"Seems puke is the new love potion."  I cackle gleefully and fill them in.  "And so we have a brand new couple on the block.  I personally think it's very sweet and nobody but nobody is going to fuck them over. Okay?" I look round the booth and the booth next to me and they all nod, with smiles starting to spread over faces.

 

 

 

"Actually, there's another new couple on the block too."  Idaho grins at Emmy Lou.

 

 

 

"What, did he throw up on you as well?"  Brian laughs.

 

 

 

"He did no such thing."  Emmy Lou swats at him.  "He liked the way I calmed him down."

 

 

 

"Ah I've heard rumours of that."  Slick guffaws.  "Apparently, only one other person is better than you at that."

 

 

 

"At what and who is better?"  Hunter demands eagerly, his mind firmly in the gutter.

 

 

 

"Kissing and Brian."  Slick replies and chuckles at his look of disappointment.

 

 

 

"Right I'm going to get your breakfast."  I bustle back to the kitchen.

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

Okay, I knew that it was going to be a shock to them but Ben hasn't said a word since his last utterance. I clear my throat.  "So Ben, where's Michael? Are we expecting him soon?"

 

 

 

"He's got food poisoning. Well that's what he says anyway.  Hunter and I know it's just that his stomach couldn't handle the raw fish.  We had the same as him and we're fine." He takes a sip of coffee and starts to smile.  "But that is nothing compared to how sick he's going to be over this.  I'm so happy for you guys, truly!"

 

 

 

"Thanks."  Justin beams at him and swipes a piece of fruit from my bowl.

 

 

 

"Where'd you guys go for sushi?"  Idaho is idly stroking the back of Emmy Lou's hand.

 

 

 

"Nakama.  He just had to go after he heard from Ted and Blake that they were going."

 

 

 

"Ah speak of the devil."  Slick waves.  "Ted, Blake over here."

 

 

 

"So what's this I hear about my boss and his new boyfriend and a caterer and his?"  Ted grins at us.

 

 

 

"Fuck me...that was quick!"  Idaho mutters.

 

 

 

CARL'S LOCK UP - SUNDAY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

So I like the guy but I do not like his car or wrenches. That's the 3rd nail I've broken in the last half hour.

 

 

 

"You had enough yet?"  He tries very hard not to smirk.

 

 

 

"More than enough...thank you."  He hands me a cloth to wipe my hands and again tries not to smirk when yet another nail breaks.  "Goddammit!"  I gripe.

 

 

 

"So I owe you a manicure, do I?"  He finally succumbs to smirking.

 

 

 

"Damn right you do!  I mean look at them," I grumble.  

 

 

 

"Okay how about this?  You go pick up your nails from the store and show me how to apply them."

 

 

 

"Really?  I'd like that but I'm very fussy about my nails."  I warn.

 

 

 

"I prefer the term discerning. Fussy sounds so old fashioned."  He remarks.  "And you don't strike me as that old fashioned."

 

 

 

DEBS HOUSE - TWO HOURS LATER

 

 

 

I look at my nails and smile.  "Very good Detective Horvath.  Are you normally this meticulous in everything you do?"

 

 

 

"Oh yes.  I believe in doing everything to the best of my ability.  So what about you? How do you approach things?"

 

 

 

"Somewhat cautiously I have to admit.  I mean I try my very best at all times.  I'm a great cook even if I do say so myself, but there are other things that..."

 

 

 

"Debbie?"

 

 

 

"Huh?"

 

 

 

"I would really like to, and excuse the old fashioned term, but I would like to make out with you for a while and that involves you not talking..."

 

 

 

"Zipping."  I murmur as he pulls me towards him.

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S HOUSE - SUNDAY LATE AFTERNOON

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

My stomach has finally settled.  I cannot believe how ill I was and they weren't.  That fish was definitely off. I make my way downstairs and find Ben and Hunter talking to Matthew and Griffin in the lounge. I tighten my robe and glower at Ben, who looks nonplussed.  "What are you guys doing here? I didn't think we had arranged anything.  Are we going out?"

 

 

 

"No, no.  We've just come over to ask Ben for Brian's number.  He gave me his card but somebody naming no names Griffin washed the jeans it was in.  I'm trying to set up a meeting for me and him this week."

 

 

 

"Oh you don't need Ben for that. I have it.  Give me a minute..."

 

 

 

"It's okay, Ben gave me it already.  We'll be going now.  Thanks Ben and yes Griffin you do indeed owe me lunch for your washing faux pas...who the hell doesn't check pockets before sticking jeans in the machine?"

 

 

 

"Try Nakama," Hunter suggests as he leads them out.  "The sushi is excellent!"  He shouts after them.

 

 

 

Hunter comes back in and slumps on the sofa.  "How many times must I tell you not to shout down the street?"  

 

 

 

He looks up at me thoughtfully.  "I wasn't shouting. I was speaking, as they had barely got down the first step."

 

 

 

"So Ben, when did they become a couple? Was it after our dinner?"  He frowns at me.  "Matthew and Griffin, when did they start dating?"

 

 

 

"Uh about 5 years ago."  He replies.  I gape at him.  "But they live in separate houses."

 

 

 

"Which is why they work, dude."  Hunter shakes his head at me.  "Griffin is a slob and Matt's a neat freak so they couldn't live together. How do you not know this?"

 

 

 

I ignore his question and try to regain control of the conversation.  "And I have another question for you... how did you get Brian's number?  I don't appreciate you going through my phone for it.  How did you get my code anyway?"

 

 

 

Ben stands up quickly and glowers at me.  "I don't have your code so I didn't go through your phone for Brian's number.  I've had it since he took Hunter to Canada to visit Gus.  And I don't appreciate that insinuation."

 

 

 

"Ben I didn't..."

 

 

 

"Yes you did, Michael.  Now I have papers to grade."

 

 

 

"And I have homework."  Hunter follows him out.

 

 

 

BRITIN - SUNDAY EVENING

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

"This is the most beautiful place I have ever seen, it's a palace.  How do you not live here all the time?"

 

 

 

We've just come back from a walk and although cold still I'm warm from being chased and kissed through the woods at the back at the property.

 

 

 

He blushes and then smiles.  "I do at the weekends, but The Loft is better for work as its closer.  Do you want a coffee or something stronger?"

 

 

 

"Both."  I reply.  "Do you know you are cute when you blush?"

 

 

 

"Did you just call me cute I am not cute I am masculine with a bittersweet edge."  He corrects me haughtily. I really try not to laugh but end up giggling much to his indignation. "No Beam coffee for you."  He pouts and plops down on the sofa next to me folding his arms.

 

 

 

"Brian."  I put my hand on his arm but he pulls away sticking his nose in the air.  At first I think he's really pissed but I can see he's trying not to smile. "I'll just make my own coffee then, just think of how much fun I will have spilling the grounds and the cream all over those lovely and currently clean countertops..."

 

 

 

I get up and dash to the kitchen but don't make it before he scoops me back into his chest. "Okay!  I'll make it!  You are so fucking messy!"

 

 

 

Ten minutes later we're waiting for the machine to beep and watching One Eyed Jacks.  I watch him mouth all the lines.

 

 

 

"What's your favourite movie?"  He asks pulling the blanket up further and moving my hair so he can get behind my ear.

 

 

 

"Yellow Submarine.  I have it on video."

 

 

 

"Do you have the video still?"  I nod and try not to wriggle as his tongue makes its way determinedly to my newly found hot spot at the base of my skull.

 

 

 

"Slick has a VCR we could watch it sometime at yours.  I refuse to have such an antiquated system in any property I own."

 

 

 

I tense up at his comment and he pauses his tongue journey.  "What's wrong?"  Sighing I turn to face him.

 

 

 

"I've finished your car so I won't be at..."  I mumble.

 

 

 

"Cashmere sweater, Prada...I repeat Prada shoes...and since the new season is coming up I will insist that the shoes come from there.  And there's the rest of your dinners, the art show and of course there's Slick...she won't let you go anywhere...and nor will I."

 

 

 

We lock gazes before he captures my mouth and I twist my fingers in his hair.  The combination of the beeping of the coffee machine and the ringing of his phone brings us out of our lust induced haze.

 

 

 

"You do the coffee yeah?"  I nod.  He connects the call.  "Kinney..."

 

 

 

I manage to find a tray and carry it to the lounge and he's still on his call.  I top up the coffee with beam and settle back on the sofa.

 

 

 

"Okay that should work. So we fly out Tuesday evening and be back on Friday morning?  Great Matthew see you at the airport."

 

 

 

He drops a kiss on the top of my head.  "Sorry just need to make one more call, I'll be back."

 

 

 

Ten minutes later, he nudges me forward so he can slide in behind me and again covers us with the blanket.  "So I've got to go to New York on a business trip this week.  And I've asked Slick if I can steal you away..."

 

 

 

I turn round so fast I spill my coffee on the floor, he just smiles.

 

 

 

"She said yes as long as you bring her back a present...hey, hey are those happy tears?"

 

 

 

I can't speak so just nod.

 

 

 

DINER - WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

Ben, once again took unnecessary offence but has finally forgiven me. Though I feel I should forgive him for his overreaction.  Ted and Brian are in New York on a business trip and we've not spoken in a week... well we have, but only briefly between meetings.

 

 

 

Mother is talking to that cop still and the way they are billing and cooing is nauseating.  But that's not the only thing that's off.  There seems to be an odd vibe.  I was about to speak to Ben about it when Emmett come in holding hands with whathisname...ah that must be it.

 

 

 

"So when did that happen?"  I nudge Ben.  

 

 

 

"When did what happen?"  He looks up.

 

 

 

"Emmett and In...yes Indigo?"

 

 

 

"Idaho.  His name is Idaho.  Jesus Michael, it's bad enough that you fuck up ordinary words but must you fuck up names too?"  Ben snaps in exasperation.

 

 

 

I was about to say something when two women come flying in the door looking around the diner.  They head to mother.

 

 

 

"Excuse me, can you help us?"

 

 

 

"Sure honey, what's wrong?"

 

The blonde is almost hyperventilating and the other woman is scrambling in her bag.  Rent-a-dick comes over.

 

 

 

"Let me handle this Debbie.  Excuse me ladies, I'm Detective Carl Horvath of Pittsburgh PD, what seems to be the problem?"

 

 

 

"Have you seen this man?"  She's shoving a paper under his nose.  "Can you tell me where he is?"

 

 

 

"Yes, I know him, and he's in New York."  Mother tells her guiding her to a booth.

 

 

 

"He's gone back to New York, no!  We'll never find him now!"  Blondie cries and bursts into tears.

 

 

 

CARL

 

 

 

"Ladies take a seat here and tell me what is going on?"

 

 

 

"He told me, he lied to me!   He said he went there 3 years ago. If I had known he was here, I would've looked for him."  The other lady is trying to comfort her.  "When did he leave for New York?"

 

 

 

"First, who lied to you about this man?"  Debs asks gently.

 

 

 

"My bastard of an ex-husband! He told me he went to New York; even showed me a ticket with his name on it.  I knew I shouldn't have trusted him, you said that didn't you?  You knew he wouldn't leave me and Molly!"

 

 

 

The younger woman holds the blonde close before addressing me and Deb. "Sorry, let me introduce us. I'm Daphne and this is Jennifer and that is her son and my best friend, Justin."

 

 

 

"Daphne, we need to book flights to New York tonight. When did he leave?"  Jennifer demands.

 

 

 

"Tuesday, but you don't need to book flights..."

 

 

 

"Of course we do! We have to try and find him.  I want my son back!"  She all but wails.

 

 

 

"No, no you don't understand. He's coming back on Friday. He and Brian only went there for this week."  Debs explains gently.

 

 

 

"What the fuck do you mean he and Brian went to New York?!"  Michael bellows.

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER 14: REUNION

 

 

 

CARL

 

 

 

"That's what you took from this entire thing?!"  Debs snaps at him.

 

 

 

Just then Slick comes in.  "What entire thing? What's going on?"  She looks from Debs to me.

 

 

 

"Slick this is..."  Debs begins to explain.

 

 

 

"Wait Debbie, we have no way of knowing what she's said is true."  I caution.  "Can we use the office?  Slick come with us."

 

 

 

Debs leads us to the office but Slick pauses as she passes Michael's booth.  "Wait guys.  Ben, is this anything to do with Justin or Brian?"  He nods; then quick as a flash she snatches Michael's phone off the table. "You get it back when we're done."  She growls.

 

 

 

"Hey you can't take my phone!"  Michael shouts and tries to reach for it but Ben pulls him back to sit down.

 

 

 

"Leave it Michael, you'll get it back!"  Ben rebukes him.  "Kiki can we order please?"

 

 

 

DINER OFFICE

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

"Okay someone catch me up?  Though if you are who I think you are I figure I can guess?"

 

 

 

"My name is Jennifer Taylor and this is Daphne Chanders."  She clears her throat and wipes her eyes.  "And this is my son and her best friend.  We had no idea he was still in Pittsburgh after my now ex told me he had run away to New York. We only found out when Daphne happened across this article and we called them. They said this would be the best place to start."

 

 

 

"Uh huh."  I eye them carefully.  "Got any ID on you for Carl to check out?"  They scramble in their purses and Carl goes to make a couple of calls. "So this ex, what's his name?"

 

 

 

"Craig, Craig Taylor."

 

 

 

"Or Cuntface as I want to call him now!"  Daphne snarls.  "How could he lie to us like that? How could he?  After all Justin's been through, he just..." She breaks down again and Debs pulls her into her arms and lets her cry.

 

 

 

"Excuse me, Slick was it?  How do you know Justin?  How do any of you?"  Jennifer looks around.  "Please tell me."

 

 

 

"Mrs Taylor, Ms Chanders you check out."  Carl hands their ID back with a small smile.

 

 

 

"Not our story to tell.  Right, first thing first, the last true and final test.  Debs get them freshened up will you?"

 

 

 

Debs nods and leads them out and Carl looks puzzled.  "He'll either scream then cry and want to be on the next plane or he won't come back to Pittsburgh."

 

 

 

"Ah I see.  You're very smart."  He squeezes my hand.  

 

 

 

"I have my moments.  Okay let's do this."

 

 

 

I check the time and decide to call Ted first instead to find out their schedule.  Somebody up there likes this kid.  I grab my iPad and dial a number.

 

 

 

ASTORIA HOTEL

 

 

 

BRIAN AND JUSTIN'S ROOM

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"Hey Slick, why are you FaceTiming with me? Surely you're not missing me that...what's wrong, is it Debs?" I sit down and on hearing the concern in my voice, Justin immediately sits next to me.

 

 

 

"Slick?"  I prompt as she seems to be looking elsewhere.  "Slick!"  I yell.

 

 

 

"Sorry Brian.  Ah he's with you.  Justin, can you tell me if you know who these people are?"

 

 

 

She flips the camera and there is silence at both ends.  For what seems hours Justin just stares at the screen before tears start to fall and he starts to nod. "Who are they?"  I hear Slick ask gently.

 

 

 

"M-my mom and D-D-Daphne."  He manages to choke out and reaches for the screen.  "Are you really there?"  He gasps.

 

 

 

"Yes, yes we are!  Honey, I'm sorry, I'm so, so sorry. He lied! He lied about you to us!  If I had..."  Jennifer breaks down again.

 

 

 

"Justy, my Justy."  Daphne weeps.

 

 

 

"Okay guys we're going to give you some time alone.  Brian can call me back on my cell obvs?"

 

 

 

Snorting, I nod and head to the bedroom.

 

 

 

BEDROOM

 

 

 

"Slick what the fuck happened?  How did they find him?"  I demand pacing the room.  "The article in Out oh I see.  He'll want to come home now.  Why not?  Oh I see thinking of yourself yeah-yeah of course, you are.  Okay no problem.  Slick, thank you for taking control of that thank you."

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

I poke my head out the door and he's smiling his sunshine smile.  "I've got so much to tell you, I'm going to come home to..."

 

 

 

"Wait Justin, if you're going to say tonight, we don't think that's a good idea."  All three gasp in horror.  "Hear me out.  You need time to adjust to the news you've just got and they know where to come to find you, which will be on Saturday morning.  Justin, we need to be sure."

 

 

 

"We would never hurt Justin if that is what you're alluding to, Mr..."  Jennifer objects.

 

 

 

"Kinney, Brian Kinney.  And I'm sure you're not here to hurt him but if you know where he is then his father would too."

 

 

 

"Oh don't worry about him. He's going to be too busy dislodging his balls from the roof of his mouth!"  Daphne growls.  

 

 

 

"And picking his teeth off the fucking floor!"  Jennifer adds.

 

 

 

"Mom!"  Justin gasps and then giggles.  I narrow my eyes at him.  "I've never heard her swear before!"

 

 

 

"Besides, his father would never read that paper, since it's so deviant a lifestyle.  What a fucker!  Oh that's it, I'm going to kill him!"

 

 

 

Daphne stands but is immediately stalled by Carl.  "Detective here remember? Bodily harm I can hide but murder not so much."  He must be smiling because she's grinning.

 

 

 

"So we agree then? You guys come on Saturday and we meet you there?"  I ask and all three nod.  "I'll leave you to say your goodbyes."  

 

 

 

I kiss the side of his head and go back to the bedroom, just as I close the door, I pause and hear.  "Before we go Justy, does he happen to have a younger and straighter brother?"

 

 

 

"Daphne!"  Jennifer giggles.

 

 

 

DINER OFFICE

 

 

 

JENNIFER

 

 

 

I can't believe it. We've found him after all these years!  We've found him.  We're still just staring at the blank screen when there's a tap on the door and Slick and Debs come back in

 

.

 

"All sorted for Saturday then?"  I nod.  "Great, do you want tea or coffee? Best you have it in here I think."

 

 

 

"Mint tea for me."  I reply.

 

 

 

"Me as well."  Daphne still looks a little shell-shocked. Debbie nods and calls out to someone.

 

 

 

"Who was that man that shouted?"  I ask.  "And why did you take his phone?"

 

 

 

"Oh that reminds me."  She pulls out the phone and starts fiddling with the screen.  "There that should keep him occupied for a bit.  As to who, that's Michael Novotny the best friend- or interfering dickface as I prefer to call him- of Brian Kinney, who Justin is with."

 

 

 

"And my son or currently pretentious dick as I prefer to call him."  Debs laughs.

 

 

 

We gape at both of them.  "You describe your son like that?  But why?"

 

 

 

"Stick around; you'll see," She replies dryly.

 

 

 

"Slick can you, ahem, define with?"  I ask.

 

 

 

"Not my story to tell."  She smiles at me and then our tea arrives and she takes the iPad off us and waves a small bottle of brandy at us.

 

 

 

"Please, in fact can I have the bottle?"  I laugh and then laugh harder when she slides it across.

 

 

 

"Can I have Brian's number? You know so I can call Justy."  Daphne asks nervously.

 

 

 

"Sorry, can't do that."  Slick replies.  We both sigh and nod our understanding.  "But I can give you Justin's...first thing I asked when I went outside, just got a text from him."

 

 

 

I can't help it I burst into tears again.

 

 

 

DINER

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

Michael's eyes have not left the entrance hall and I can feel the anger vibrating through him.  But as usual he's oblivious to how I feel and I'm glad Slick took his phone because he would've been calling Brian in seconds!

 

 

 

"Ben!  I said how could you let her do that?!"

 

 

 

"Do what?"  I reply calmer than I feel.

 

 

 

"Do what?  Do what?!  Take my phone of course! I have to let Brian know what's happening."

 

 

 

I inhale deeply and clench my fist.  "Yeah, think that's already covered."

 

 

 

"What's already covered?"  Emmy Lou slides into the booth next to me.  "I was texted AHN by her Slickness."

 

 

 

I have to smile, only Emmy Lou could say that about Slick and get away with it. Well him and Brian but nobody else. We're all just a little bit scared of Slick when it comes to her name.

 

 

 

"Wait AHN, what the hell is that?"  I chuckle.  "Her and her acronyms.  Let me try and guess...ass here, um oh, now?"

 

 

 

"Bingo, so what's occurring?"

 

 

 

"What's occurring Emmy Lou is that these two ladies are in need of an up-cheer that only you and I can give them; Michael here's your phone.  Come on I'll explain on the way to yours."

 

 

 

ASTORIA HOTEL

 

 

 

TED'S ROOM

 

 

 

I am staring in shock at Brian and Justin.

 

 

 

"Yo-your mother and best friend have found you?  That's wonderful!  Isn't it?"

 

 

 

"Yes, yes it is."  Brian looks a bit, I'm not sure, embarrassed, sheepish, or hopeful?

 

 

 

"You've taught me well master, go do what you need to do, I'll cover the meeting this evening, but I need you with me tomorrow.  Deal?"

 

 

 

"Deal."  Justin beams at me and drags Brian out of the room.

 

 

 

"Brian Kinney in love...wow!"

 

 

 

BRIAN AND JUSTIN'S ROOM

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I‘ve dragged him to the bedroom and I'm glued to him ravaging his mouth.  He's making these little groaning noises as he kneads my ass.

 

 

 

"Justin, Justin, wait, stop."  He tugs gently on my hair to get my attention as I kiss his neck.

 

 

 

"What's wrong? You don't want to?"

 

 

 

"Oh I want to but..."  He sighs.  "But, now's not the right time for you."

 

 

 

"It is trust me!"  I protest.

 

 

 

"No, Justin, no it isn't."  He looks at me.  "Truthfully, you know it isn't."

 

 

 

Groaning I bury my head in his neck. "Dammit.  You're right, as much as I want to, and I really want to, I'm thinking about Saturday too much and..."

 

 

 

He flips me on my back and stops me with a kiss.  A slow deep kiss that I feel in my toes.

 

 

 

Sliding off me, he reaches slowly down to my pants and pops the buttons slowly.

 

 

 

"But I can do something..."  He murmurs against my mouth and slides down to my hips and starts to tug on my pants.

 

 

 

"Uh Brian, I've..."

 

 

 

"Sssh.  I've got this.  Lift your hips."

 

 

 

I do so and he pulls my pants off and nudges my legs apart.

 

 

 

"So beautiful."  He whispers.

 

 

 

He pushes my top up to my chest and kisses my stomach and swirls his tongue in my belly button. I give a soft cry at the unexpected feeling.  His hands are gentling my shaking body, stroking me into calmness.  "Turn over.  Justin turn over."

 

 

 

"But..."

 

 

 

"Trust me just turn over."

 

 

 

I do so and feel his hot tongue making a trail down my spine and then the soft bites on my ass, make me wriggle and groan into the mattress.  His hands go back to kneading my cheeks and I still when I feel him blow on me down there.  I blink rapidly and turn my head in time to see and feel his tongue touch me there.

 

 

 

"Oh!"  I cry out and clutch at the sheets.  "Um, Brian what...oh, oh!"

 

 

 

His tongue is hot and relentless, licking me from the base of my spine to my balls. He takes each one in his mouth and suckles gently.  He pulls my cheek further apart and then I feel his tongue slowly going inside me.

 

 

 

"Oh my God, oh my God!"  I chant as he dips and swirls his tongue.  I grind my hips into the mattress.  I don't know what he's doing but it feels so good.  Slowly he withdraws his tongue and chuckles.

 

 

 

"Why did you stop?"  I pant.

 

 

 

"I want to introduce you to something."  I look bewildered and then groan as his replaces his tongue with his finger and touches something. "Meet your prostate."

 

 

 

"Holy fuck!"  I scream as he thrusts his finger and then another in and out.  "Oh God, don't stop, please don't stop!"

 

 

 

He reaches for my hand and we entwine fingers and he continues to thrust.

 

 

 

"Oh, I'm...yeah, I'm gonna oh-oh-ah-oh yes!"  I scream and then I feel him shuddering against me and then he sighs.

 

 

 

"What was that thing, the thing you did w-with your tongue?"  I gasp.

 

 

 

"Rimming."  He grins at me.

 

 

 

"You're very good."  I grin back.

 

 

 

"And I came in my pants again."

 

 

 

I manage to get up on my elbows and kiss him gently.  "Good, I'm glad I wasn't the only one to get happy."

 

 

 

EMMETT'S APARTMENT

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

EMMY LOU

 

 

 

Now that I look at her, I can see the resemblance.  We stopped off at the store and I picked up some nibbles and of course my chocolate torte.

 

 

 

"So what's the plan?"  I ask Slick.  She scrunches up her nose.  "You're on mop duty."

 

 

 

"Mop duty?"  Daphne asks looking from me, to Jennifer and back to Slick.

 

 

 

"Yep, they and you are going to be crying buckets on Saturday so bring tissues.  Brian and I are going to cover the loss at the diner for the morning.  And you are going to do a marvellous Emmy Lou breakfast.  Deal."

 

 

 

"Oh deal."  I really tried not to cry but I'm just so happy for them and the fact that they want to include me in it.

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S HOUSE

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

It's taken over an hour but I've finally got my phone unlocked!  I cannot believe that fucking Slick did that to me.  Ben and Hunter, of course, have found it most amusing.

 

 

 

"I'm glad you find it funny!"  I snarl at them.  "Now if you'll excuse me I need to make sure my best friend is not being taken advantage of!"

 

 

 

"Or you could stay here and you know apologise to your partner for being an ass!"  Hunter shouts back at me.  "You know Ben, my dad, the man you've been in a relationship with for the last three years!"

 

 

 

That stops me.  "Ben doesn't mind my friendship with Brian. He knows that..."

 

 

 

"It's not the friendship I have a problem with Michael, because that's all it is to Brian, a friendship.  What I have a problem with is your interpretation of friendship.  I didn't until now.  Until that stupid rumour you put out about him, which you still can't see the harm in.  No, don't speak. Go do what you think is important."

 

 

 

"Dad, fancy a game of pool?  We can grab Jeff on the way."  Hunter suggests.

 

 

 

"Yeah let's do that.  See you later Michael. We'll be in Woody's if you want to join us."

 

 

 

I nod and they leave and I call Brian.  "Brian, it's me.  You have to call me right back!  I told you he would be trouble!"

 

 

 

DINER - SATURDAY MORNING

 

 

 

DEBS

 

 

 

Well they're here. Jennifer and Daphne. They look so nervous and excited.  Carl, Slick and Emmy Lou are here too.  Carl did a bit more digging and what Jennifer said is true. As far as Cuntface is concerned he has no son, so there's no threat but Slick, after her mom, is very cautious.

 

 

 

"They'll be here in 5 minutes."  Slick smiles at them.  "Emmy Lou need hand with plating up?"

 

 

 

"Ems, come on, soggy bagels aren't edible."  I pull him into my arms.

 

 

 

We all pause when the bell rings and it feels like it happens in slow motion. First the scream and then they run to each other.

 

 

 

"Mom!" "Justin!" "Daph!" "Justy!"  Is all I can hear and then the sobbing starts.

 

 

 

"You're so thin!  Where have you been? What have you been doing?"  Jennifer tugs him into the booth between the two of them.  "First eat that bagel young man!"

 

 

 

Justin tells them what he's really been up to. The article in Out only gave the barest of details and, of course, not naming names.  Jennifer has a small mountain of tissues in front of her and Daphne is pacing like a caged lioness.

 

 

 

"Paris!  He told you I went to fucking Paris!  Carl would you mind stepping out for about five minutes? I just need to ask Justin something."

 

 

 

"No, I'm very comfortable right where I am thanks."  He chuckles.

 

 

 

"Dammit!"

 

 

 

"So where are you living now?  And what about Molly?  Is she okay?"

 

 

 

"What do you mean where are we living...oh God what did he tell you?"

 

 

 

"That you were moving out of state..."  He starts to cry again.

 

 

 

"Seriously Carl just five minutes outside, that's all I ask!"

 

 

 

"Two minutes."  Carl smirks and heads outside.

 

 

 

CARL

 

 

 

Well if that don't beat all.  What a truly mephitic bastard that man is. Just because your kid is gay you do that to him? Cut him out of not just your life but the lives of his mother, sister and best friend by lying to them? If that was my kid I would be so fucking proud of what he's achieved!

 

 

 

And speaking of children.  "What do you want Michael?"

 

 

 

He rolls his eyes at me.  "Breakfast of course."

 

 

 

"Diner's closed."

 

 

 

"I can see people. In fact I can see my mother, so it's clearly open."

 

 

 

"It's a private function that..."

 

 

 

"Brian!"  He cries out and pushes his way in and I manage to grab his sleeve to halt his progress.

 

 

 

"You!"  He snarls.  "What fucking lies have..."

 

 

 

"My son does not lie!"  Jennifer shouts at him and advances.  "Finish that sentence and I will rip off your fucking ugly face!"

CHAPTER 15: PAINFUL

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

The entire diner is quiet. I think everyone is holding their breath.

 

 

 

"Are you going to finish that sentence?"  Jennifer's voice is low, controlled and icy.

 

 

 

Michael shakes his head.  "Good.  Now leave. This is private function and you were not invited."

 

 

 

"Brian..." He begins but starts to step back as Daphne advances.  "I'll call you later. We've got to talk!"

 

 

 

He stomps out but stands glowering through the window.  Slick grabs the roll of brown paper she brought with her and between her and Emmy Lou they tape it to the window and the door.  Then hangs the sign ‘private function - diner will reopen this afternoon' on the both the window and the door.

 

 

 

"I had wondered what the paper was for."  Debs murmurs.  "So shall we eat some more?"

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

After standing there watching them block me out, I decide to head home and speak to someone rational.

 

 

 

Once indoors I make myself a cup of coffee and look for Ben. He came home late last night and was gone before I got up this morning.  I had hoped he would be back by now.

 

 

 

"Went for a run."  I jump out of my skin at Hunter's voice.  "Needed to clear the..."

 

 

 

"Hangover?"  I query.

 

 

 

"No.  And if you had been there for longer than an hour you would've realised that he only had one drink."  Hunter flops down on the sofa and stretches out.

 

 

 

"It's okay, I didn't want to sit on the sofa anyway."  I mutter sarcastically as I head to the study.

 

 

 

"Good!"  He calls back and I hear him click on the TV and turn up the volume.

 

 

 

"What the fuck is his problem?"  I gripe but then take a deep breath and have some more coffee, before FaceTiming with Lindz but get Mel first.

 

 

 

"Michael, how are you?"

 

 

 

"Fine, is Lindz there?"

 

 

 

"Jenny, Gus and I are fine thanks so much for asking.  I'll just get her."

 

 

 

"Michael!  How are you?  You don't look very happy. You and Ben had a fight or something?"

 

 

 

"No Ben and I are just fine, though Hunter's attitude needs adjusting.  He seems to forget that I'm practically his stepfather and he should be more respectful.  No, the reason for the upset is that Brian went to New York..."

 

 

 

"Yes he said he was going.  He went with your neighbour, Matthew I think he said and..."

 

 

 

"Justin. He also took Justin.  You know the barfing twink."

 

 

 

"He did? He never mentioned that. Did he tell you about that?"

 

 

 

"No!  I found out about it when his mother and best friend turned up trying to find him and then..."

 

 

 

"Wait, start from the beginning..."

 

 

 

I spend the next half an hour explaining what has happened. At the end she looks thoughtful.

 

 

 

"So what are we going to do?"  I demand.

 

 

 

"Was Brian near him at the diner?"  I shake my head.  "So he's most likely already had him in New York and was just bringing him to the diner for his mom and best friend to pick up and be on his way back home right?"

 

 

 

"Yeah, you're right.  He'll be back to being the Stud in no time, though he's got 5 more dinners to go to with him."

 

 

 

"Which knowing Brian, he will find a way to get out of. It's not as if Justin is going to run bleating to the press is it or anyone else for that matter?"

 

 

 

"True.  You see this is why I can talk to you about Brian. We know him better than most.  We've got that history that binds us together."

 

 

 

DINER

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

"I don't think I can eat another thing."  I groan and Brian and my mom raise their eyebrows.  "I'm serious.  I'm full."

 

 

 

Emmy Lou scoffs.  "You know what I think you can squeeze in one iddy biddy slice of my candied hazelnut and chocolate pie?"

 

 

 

I almost cave as truthfully, I had been eyeing it since it was unboxed in the hope that I could take at least some of it back to the apartment with me.  "Or shall I just box it back up and you take it home...?"

 

 

 

I blush and then smile hugely as he does exactly that, much to everyone else's amusement.

 

 

 

Daphne grins.  "So Justy what time am I coming round tonight?  You know to help you with that pie?"  I look horrified.  "Kidding, I'm just kidding!"

 

 

 

"Mom, mom are you okay?"  I ask. She's looking at a subdued Slick.

 

 

 

"Mmm.  I'm okay but she's not."  She sits next to her and takes her hand.  "Thank you for giving me my son back.  If it wasn't for you giving him somewhere to stay well we would still be looking in New York."

 

 

 

"Hey don't thank me, thank Carl."  Mom looks between the two of them.  "He told Justin about the competition."

 

 

 

"Well thank you. Thank you all for this. Listen, what are you all doing next weekend? I insist you come over for dinner.  And Molly will be back from camp, once we've told her..."  She tails off.

 

 

 

"You haven't told her you've found me?!"  I'm shocked and disappointed.

 

 

 

"No honey, I tried but we had an argument. It was then I found out what he told Molly.  He-he said that you told him you never wanted to see her again and you said you no longer had a sister."

 

 

 

"Jesus fucking Christ!"  Brian snarls standing up and clenching his fists before I pull him down next to me and kiss his temple.  "Sorry."  He mumbles into my hair.

 

 

 

"No, thank you for being upset."  I whisper back.

 

 

 

"So uh Slick, are you going to show me this emporium of yours?  I actually have a need of help for a 1949 Old..."

 

 

 

"You still have the Oldsmobile, are you kidding me?!"  I squeal, "I loved that car!"

 

 

 

"Sorry say that again you have a what?"  Slick has brightened up a bit.

 

 

 

"A 1949 Oldsmobile, we learned to drive in it...are you okay?"

 

 

 

"Tell me you have a picture of it?"  Daphne fishes out her phone and shows her.  "Yeah I'll be there next weekend and I think Idaho will be very upset if he doesn't tag along too."

 

 

 

"Idaho? Who's Idaho and is he straight?"  Daphne asks looking around.

 

 

 

"One of my engineers and no and nor does he have a brother that is."  She replies tongue in cheek.  "Girl, you're on Liberty Avenue. Unless you munch, you ain't getting nothing here."

 

 

 

"Figures.  But why Slick?  I mean what's your real name?"  Daphne asks.

 

 

 

"Never use it."  She replies sadness clouding her face and then she sighs.  "You and I both have a dad problem, Justin."

 

 

 

"Your dad threw you out because you're gay?"  Mom asks quietly.

 

 

 

"No, whereas Justin's dad hates him, I hate my father.  He named me and I refuse to use it, so I use the childhood nickname my mom gave me.  Oh, we'll be shutdown on Tuesday, so Justin you get the day off... paid of course."

 

 

 

I look at Brian and then Emmy Lou, who both have a look of something on their faces.

 

 

 

"Why do you hate your father?"  Daphne, as usual is full of questions.

 

 

 

I have a feeling this is really bad.  "Uh Daph, I think we should leave this alone, I'm not sure that..."

 

 

 

"It's okay. Some know and some don't.  He killed my mom."  She answers simply.

 

 

 

"Oh my God!"  Daphne gasps.  "I'm so sorry!"

 

 

 

"Shit sweetheart!  I knew there was something about your mom but I had no idea it was that!"  Debs pulls her in for a hug her eyes brimming with tears.

 

 

 

"Not as sorry as he is. He's in Ryker's and not the big man so much now."  She snorts quietly.

 

 

 

"What's your dad's name?"  Carl queries.

 

 

 

"Harriman, Pernell Harriman.  But I use my mom's maiden name now."

 

 

 

"Ah I understand your caution now."  He nods and squeezes her arm and shakes his head at Debs.  "If it's okay with you Slick, I'll tell her later."

 

 

 

She nods and wraps her arms tighter and closes her eyes for a minute.

 

 

 

"You two knew didn't you?"  I look between Brian and Emmy Lou and they nod.

 

 

 

"When they make a promise and I say lock it down they never break it."  She scrunches her nose at them and Emmy Lou wipes his eyes.

 

 

 

"So Tuesday? Is that the day he..."  Daphne whispers horrified.

 

 

 

"No it's her birthday and I like to be by myself.  To remember her..."

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

"Hey, is that you Ben?  Are you're finally home?"  Michael calls out.  "Where have you been all morning?"

 

 

 

"Went for a run and then had a few errands to do."  I reply heading to the lounge where he's drinking coffee and reading a comic book.  "Why aren't you at the store?"

 

 

 

"Oh closed up early.  You did errands in your running gear?"  He hasn't looked up but his disapproval is evident in his tone.

 

 

 

"No, I came back and changed before running the errands."  That gets his attention.

 

 

 

"Really? I didn't hear you come in.  I've told Hunter about having the TV on so loud..."

 

 

 

"Nothing to do with Hunter.  You were speaking to Lindsay, how's Jenny?"

 

 

 

"Fine as far as I know."  He tilts his head and stares at me for a bit.  "Are you okay? You seem a little off."

 

 

 

"I'm fine, Michael... just great.  Do you know what private function is being held in the diner?  And why it is all wrapped up?"

 

 

 

"Oh that kid's mom and best friend were there. Brian dropped him off to reunite with them before he goes back home with them.  Do you fancy eating out this evening? I think that Hunter is out with friends."

 

 

 

"Justin's leaving?  I'm surprised to hear that.  But why was it all wrapped up?"

 

 

 

He shrugs but looks guilty. "So where are we going for dinner?"  I'm wondering about his guilty expression.  "Ben, are you listening to me? Where are we going for dinner?"

 

 

 

"Oh I would love to try Six Penn Kitchen.  Apparently the food is good and huge portions."  I reply hiding my smirk.  "We can go to Babylon afterwards since we've not danced in ages."

 

 

 

"Okay let's do that. You book the restaurant and I'll call the guys for Babylon.  Make it like old times."

 

 

 

I smile at him and head to the study and later on make sure that all the guys know about it.

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT - EARLY EVENING

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I can't believe how blasé and matter of fact about it Slick was.  And that gets me to thinking about what Hobbs almost did and how everyone I left behind would feel.

 

 

 

"Justin, don't."  Brian pulls me into his arms.  "Don't dwell on what if and don't feel sorry for Slick. She hates pity over this.  In her mind her mom has had justice served, okay?"

 

 

 

I twist the buttons on his shirt then look up at him.  "I want to say thank you to her."

 

 

 

He nods and cards his fingers through my hair soothing my frazzled nerves.  "How?"

 

 

 

I sigh and contemplate the question.  "I don't know but will think of something."

 

 

 

"Good. Can we leave this for now and get some dancing clothes picked out?"

 

 

 

"Huh?"

 

 

 

"We're meeting the guys at Babylon and..."

 

 

 

"Babylon!  Oh my God I haven't been to a nightclub in forever and I love to dance."

 

 

 

"You do?  Then you and Emmy Lou can burn up the dance floor, while the rest of us prop up the bar.  Well Ben may throw some shapes at some point..."

 

 

 

"Does that mean that Michael will be there too?"

 

 

 

"I should imagine so since he was the one inviting me out."

 

 

 

"He's still not realised?"  He shrugs kissing me gently.

 

 

 

"Apparently not.  Now come on let's get ready. We're going from The Loft, so pack an overnight bag."

 

 

 

SIX PENN KITCHEN

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

"Okay.  Next time we come here we order less dishes."  I groan.  "At least I'll be able to dance this off soon.  Did you enjoy yourself?  Michael? Michael? Earth to Michael."

 

 

 

"Huh oh sorry.  Yes I've enjoyed myself. It was nice to be on our own, but come on let's head to Babylon. It's going to be great!"

 

 

 

I nod and smile and settle the bill.  Justin was right about the portion sizes. I really need the thumpa-thump to work this off.

 

 

 

BABYLON

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

"Will you stop tugging at it? You look great!  Better than great."  I grin at him as we head to the front of the line.

 

 

 

"Brian we can't just push in."  He whispers horrified and I grin at him.  

 

 

 

"You can when you own it."

 

 

 

His shocked expression is so adorable but I have to push his chin back up.  "You own it? But-but... when?"

 

 

 

"Just before the bombing and I wasn't going to rebuild but Michael and Ted talked me into it."  My eyes drift to the plaque of remembrance and think how Michael's name could've been on there.  "He was really badly hurt."

 

 

 

"Who was?"  He's reading the names of those who died.

 

 

 

"Michael. They had to remove his spleen..." I trail off and shudder slightly at the memory.

 

 

 

"Jesus.  I'm sorry."

 

 

 

"But he's fine now and that's all that matters. Now come on let's find the guys. Emmy Lou said he'd be by the bar."

 

 

 

As we push through the crowds I try not to react to the appreciative looks Justin is getting.

 

 

 

"Hey guys!"  Emmy Lou's voice cuts through the chatter.  "Hey you gorgeous things!  Now don't you look fine!  Ted and Blake have grabbed the booth upstairs while I volunteered to be the scouting party.  Ooh there's Ben... You guys go on up; I'll wait for them."

 

 

 

EMMY LOU

 

 

 

I try very hard not to smirk as Brian glowers at anyone that even looks in Justin's direction.  Justin, of course, is too busy bopping his head and bouncing on his toes to notice.  For someone so beautiful, he is completely oblivious to how he looks.

 

 

 

"Hey Ems, been waiting long?"  Ben greets me with a kiss on the cheek.

 

 

 

"Nope, we're upstairs in the booth. Brian's just gone up with..."

 

 

 

"Emmett what on earth are you wearing?"  Michael looks scornful and I try not to grimace.

 

 

 

"My best of disco outfit of course, what else would I wear to shake my thang?"

 

 

 

He rolls his eyes and looks around.  "Where's Brian?  Cruising around no doubt."

 

 

 

I shrug and avoid looking at Ben.  "I know he was heading to the booth, so let's go."

 

 

 

I lead them up and am surprised when we get there to find that Justin isn't there and Brian is leaning over the rail staring at the dance floor.  He jerks his head and I nod and head back down.

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

"What's Idaho doing here?"  Michael gripes as we head to the booth.

 

 

 

"He's most likely here with Emmy Lou."  I reply.  "Where is Emmy? He was here just now."

 

 

 

"Not sure, but the further away I am from that outfit the better."  Michael bitches just that little too loudly.  "Seriously, purple and green do not go together unless you're the Joker." Leave it to Michael to think of a comic book reference even as he insults what's supposed to be his friend.

 

 

 

"Oh I think he pulls it off just fine."  Idaho drawls with an edge to his voice. "At least he's dressed for the occasion."

 

 

 

He casts his eyes over Michael's outfit of a thin jumper and jeans.

 

 

 

"I was going for subtle sophistication."  He huffs.

 

 

 

"You missed."  Idaho retorts.

 

 

 

Before it could escalate into all-out war, which Michael would lose judging by the fire in Idaho's eyes, Brian comes back.

 

 

 

"Brian!  Where have you been? Sucking or fucking?"  Michael grins at him.

 

 

 

"Neither. Just been in the office going over some things." He shrugs before turning to Ted. "We really need to come up with a poster for the Studs-N-Studs Party. The one from last year sucked."

 

 

 

Ted nods in agreement.  "Okay. I'll source some people."

 

 

 

"No more work talk."  Blake is stern.  "We're here to unwind and boogie understood."

 

 

 

Brian and Ted look suitably chastened.

 

 

 

"Speaking of boogying, I believe they are playing my song."  Brian saunters downstairs with a smirk.

 

 

 

"He's back!"  Michael crows in my ear.  "The King has come to regain his thro...what the hell is HE doing here?!"  I wince at the decibel level and turn round and it's not Justin he's screeching about.

 

 

 

"Now what's got your panties in a...oh Brandon."  Idaho nods in his direction and Brandon nods back.

 

 

 

"How do you know him?"  Michael demands glaring in Brandon's direction.

 

 

 

"He's known around here, more in the other clubs. He only started to come to Babylon recently."

 

 

 

"Well he can fuck off! This is Brian's domain."  Michael growls.

 

 

 

"Idaho, how are you doing?"  Brandon saunters over.  

 

 

 

"Good Bran, you?"

 

 

 

"Fine just fine.  See Kinney has returned."

 

 

 

"As is his right as the owner of Babylon."  Michael snaps.  "Why don't you stick around? He'll be in the backroom soon and then he can show you how a stud really does it."

 

 

 

Brandon snickers and returns his gaze to the dance floor.  "Well whoever he's dancing with is going to be a very lucky man.   And judging by the way that they are looking at each other I suspect he's already got lucky.  See you later Idaho, say hi to Emmett for me."

 

 

 

"I will do.  See you Bran."  He takes a swig of his drink.  "So what the hell was that about Michael?"

 

 

 

"That Brandon has no right being here. This is Brian's place!"

 

 

 

"And Brian doesn't seem to have a problem with him being here. But I see what he means about Brian right now. If that's what they're like when they dance, the fucking must be fantastic!  Excuse me, I need to go get my flaming beauty!"

 

 

 

I groan inwardly as I had seen Brian and Justin dancing...actually not dancing. What they were doing was fucking with their clothes on.

 

 

 

Michael frowns and then looks down and it isn't long.  "What the fuck is HE doing here and what the fuck are they doing?!"

 

 

 

THE LOFT - EARLY SUNDAY MORNING

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

We danced all night and I'm tired, but I had an excellent time.  Well mostly.  Michael seems to have finally grasped that Brian and I are together and spent the rest of the night sulking in the booth.

 

 

 

"Okay the car will be here soon."

 

 

 

"Car?"  I mumble from the sofa where I am lying. When we got back Brian started to repack our bags.

 

 

 

"Yeah we're going to Britin, if that's okay with you.  Unless you would rather go back to your place?"

 

 

 

"No Britin is perfect, but why...oh Michael."

 

 

 

"Yeah. Now that he's finally gotten it, he will be a pest. I'm so glad that Slick pointed that out to me and thank goodness I took away his key."

 

 

 

"He had a key to this place?"  That makes me sit up and look at him.  "And he doesn't now?"

 

 

 

"Yes and no.  He abused it one time too many so I had the locks changed. We didn't speak for about two weeks after I wouldn't give him a copy." I resist the temptation to say anything and he smirks at my silence.  "Car's here come on Sleepy Beauty."

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

I drop the keys into the bowl and sigh as Michael stomps into the lounge.

 

 

 

"How long have you known?!"  He demands; well at least he's talking now.

 

 

 

"A few days. What's the big deal?"

 

 

 

"The big deal is that I should've been told!  As..."

 

 

 

"His best friend you had the right to know first, right?  Tell me Michael... if Brian was to say to you right now ‘okay you and me, let's make a go of it' what would you do?"

 

 

 

"Brian would never say that!"

 

 

 

"I didn't ask if he would say it; I asked what you would do?"

 

 

CHAPTER 16: REMEMBERING

 

 

 

BEN

 

 

 

"Well Michael I'm waiting for an answer!"  I growl as he looks like a deer in headlights.

 

 

 

"What the hell is all the yelling about?"  Hunter demands coming into the lounge.

 

 

 

"I'm not answering such a ridiculous question at this hour!"  Michael snaps and storms out of the room.

 

 

 

"You just did."  I sigh sadly and sit down.  Hunter sits next to me and pulls me into a hug before kissing my cheek.

 

 

 

"Dad are you okay?"

 

 

 

"No."  I sigh again.  "But at least I know where I stand- well where we stand- which seems to be nowhere."

 

 

 

"Look maybe things won't be so bad in the morn...later when you've had chance to sleep on it.  Come on go to bed."

 

 

 

Nodding, I follow my son upstairs and when I get to the bedroom Michael is there but glowering at me.

 

 

 

"You should..."

 

 

 

"Not now Michael, or we will both say things we can't take back."

 

 

 

BRITIN - SUNDAY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

MASTER BEDROOM

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

Not only does he give off serious heat, he's like a vine. Both our legs are entwined and he has one arm clamped across my chest, which would be fine except his knee is pressing against my cock and he's twitching in his sleep like a dog chasing a squirrel.  

 

 

 

Each nudge is making my eyes roll.  Nope can't take it anymore.

 

 

 

"Justin.  Wake up."

 

 

 

I rock him, which only makes him snuggle closer and again my eyes roll.  "Justin!"  I shove him a bit harder.

 

 

 

Finally, he starts to loosen his grip and then flops onto his back, I take some calming breaths and look at him.  He's naked as the day he was born and is sporting a very nice looking morn...afternoon woody. I'm in my boxers as I'm still not quite confident enough for him to see me completely naked.

 

 

 

Dancing with him last night was great and I didn't want to go to the backroom once.  I want to have...make love to him next. I just hope he can be patient.

 

 

 

I get up and go the bathroom to have a shower. Though we've showered together, he's always left me to do myself down there alone.

 

 

 

I sigh as I remember what I used to look like. I've not even looked at my cock and balls since I was given the all clear. I know what to do with them, so don't need to see them to fuck and when it comes to getting my cock sucked I make sure my ball...ball as I don't count the other one...is tucked in my pants still.

 

 

 

I was so engrossed in my thoughts that I didn't hear him come in until it was too late.  We both look at each other like frightened rabbits.

 

 

 

"I'm sorry I thought you would be in the shower by now."  He stammers.

 

 

 

"I thought you would still be asleep."  I blush and try to reach my boxers with my toes.

 

 

 

"I'm not looking but I really do need to piss."

 

 

 

"Give me a min-minute."  I stammer and quickly get into the shower and cringe against the wall.

 

 

 

"Thanks, um I'm just going to brush my teeth and then make some coffee. Is that okay?"

 

 

 

"Yeah that's fine."  I call back and hope he goes quickly. I almost cry with relief when I hear the door close.

 

 

 

LINDSAY AND MEL'S

 

 

 

MEL

 

 

 

I've been thinking about the weekend and having overheard the conversation between Lindsay and Michael, I think a call is called for.

 

 

 

            "Slick its Mel.  I'm good how are you?  I know you are honest.  So what's going on between Brian and Justin?  Michael was nearly hysterical on the phone to Lindsay yesterday and..."

 

 

 

After the call with Slick, I am shocked.  Not only because he's that Justin Taylor but I remember little things from the weekend and how there would be a tiny smile on Brian's face when Justin's name was mentioned.  So despite our history of sniping at each other, I shall do my bit from here.  Everyone deserves a chance at love even Brian Fucking Kinney!

 

 

 

BRITIN

 

 

 

KITCHEN

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

He's been up there for ages now and I think I might just go back to my apartment.  It was so awkward when I went into the bathroom. I mean I had a rough idea but he's huge!  I'm never going to be able to take that!

 

 

 

"Hey, how are you?"  I didn't hear him come in and quickly close my pad.  "Fine what about you?  Can I use the shower now?"

 

 

 

He looks sad and nods.  "Yeah, I'm going to do a bit of work. Let me know when you want to go back and I'll drop you there."

 

 

 

"Oh okay, I won't be long."

 

 

 

I head upstairs and sit on the bed and want to cry as there seems to be a chasm opening between us. So I channel my emotions the other way and flip the pad back open again.

 

 

 

An hour later I feel better and head to the shower. It's so nice to use his stuff and no matter what happens from this point forward I will always remember his smell.

 

 

 

STUDY

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

I've been staring at the presentation for the last hour and I've not done anything with it.  It's the one that Justin redrew for me and every time I look at it I smile at the memory of the concentration on his face. He pokes his tongue out when he's really focused and I didn't realise he's ambidextrous until then.

 

 

 

Whatever happens after this time, I will always have the pictures he drew of me.

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

I tap on the study door and give him a small smile.

 

 

 

"I'm ready."  He gives me a small smile back.  

 

 

 

"Okay give me a couple of minutes."

 

 

 

We get to my apartment without saying a word to each other.

 

 

 

JUSTIN'S APARTMENT

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

"Hey guys, sorry for the intrusion but I think I left my..."  I look at them and the tension is like a storm cloud swirling between them.  "Have you two had a row?"

 

 

 

"No, no we haven't."  Justin's voice is small.

 

 

 

"Are you sure because it sure feels like you two have had a row."

 

 

 

"No Slick, I promise we've not had a row."  Brian's voice is equally small but more pained.

 

 

 

"Do you think you should you know how to clear the funky air between you?  What the hell has happened?  The last thing I heard was that you were grinding away at Babylon and that you two were spending the day at Britin and now you're here looking like, well that!"

 

 

 

"We don't want to talk about it."  Justin sighs.

 

 

 

"Well clearly not to each other so why not talk to me?"  I prod, there is no way this is ending without me knowing why!  "Just sit the fuck down and tell me!"

 

 

 

"Something happened this morning and we're both...I don't know what the word is but..."

 

 

 

"I think the word you're looking for is horrified."  Brian mumbles

 

 

 

Justin looks astonished.  "Horrified? Why would I be horrified?"

 

 

 

"I saw your face. You had that look..."

 

 

 

Justin's face turns from astonishment to puzzlement.  "What look?"

 

 

 

"Okay, stop with the twenty questions and just say what the problem is. I have southern fried chicken to cook and I wanted my dish back.  So out with it! How come you've gone from kapow to kerplunk?"

 

 

 

At least that raises a smile.

 

 

 

"He s-saw me naked and..."

 

 

 

"Wait, what do you mean he saw you naked?  You've been sharing a bed for the last..."

 

 

 

I look at them again, both are blushing furiously.  "Ah I see."  I stand up chuckling and collect my dish before heading to the door.

 

 

 

"Uh Brian, you're a big boy and he's a virgin.  Enjoy your evening."

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

I want to curl up into the tiniest ball on the planet, smaller than an atom, I'm so mortified!  His eyes are glued to the floor and I can feel his embarrassment from here.

 

 

 

"You didn't feel that large when-when I was giving you..."  He mumbles.  "Now I know why you sleep in boxers..."

 

 

 

"You weren't looking at my balls?"  I bite my lip and wait for his reaction.

 

 

 

"No, I was just a little stunned that's all."  He then frowns.  "Why would I be looking at your balls though?"

 

 

 

"Ball, singular."  I correct.

 

 

 

"No I definitely saw two of them, but was transfixed by the beauty of your...oh my God is that what the boxers are about?  Brian, I couldn't even tell the difference!  Please, can you just sit down? I want to show you something.  Please?"

 

 

 

I slowly sit down and he sits opposite and pulls out a pad.  "This is what I saw...and I would really like to see and feel it again but only when you're ready.  Have a look.  Please?"

 

 

 

I take the pad and turn it over and snort.  "You drew my cock?"

 

 

 

"Yes!  I have a somewhat eidetic memory. Well not as much as it used to be but it's still there."

 

 

 

"And my cock looks like that?"

 

 

 

"Yep. Wait... don't you look when you're peeing?  How do you know where to aim?"

 

 

 

"I just..."  I trail off.

 

 

 

"Come on, come with me.  You introduced me to my prostate, which you have to do again by the way, so I'm reintroducing you to your cock and balls."

 

 

 

He tugs at my hand and beams his sunshine smile and I follow him up the stairs.

 

 

 

BEN & MICHAEL'S - LATE EVENING

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

We've not spoken since this morning and quite frankly I'm fucking pissed off at him.  Not only did he know about this supposed relationship and not tell me but he's questioning our relationship.  Why I don't know!

 

 

 

"What was I wearing to the dinner?"  He suddenly asks.  

 

 

 

I'm thrown by the question.  "What?"

 

 

 

"I said what was I wearing to the dinner?"

 

 

 

"Which one?"  I frown.  "Do you mean the one Emmett ruined?"  I sneer at the memory.

 

 

 

"Ems didn't...never mind. That's the one.  What was I wearing?"

 

 

 

"A shirt, jeans and no tie. I distinctly remember no tie because..."

 

 

 

"What was Brian wearing?  I liked his shirt."

 

 

 

"Oh the green one with the tiny black spots. Yeah I was with him when he bought it; cost a fortune... Can't remember where he got it from though.  And black Gucci jeans and I think Prada boots with his Boss jacket."

 

 

 

"And you don't see the difference between your description of my clothes and your description of his?"  He folds his arms and turns to face me.

 

 

 

"No, there's no difference at all.  They're just clothes!  Now back to the real source of this argument which is you keeping things from me.  Why didn't you tell me Ben?"

 

 

 

"Brian's relationship is Brian's business to tell. And besides he told everyone that was there at the time, you had stomach upset and then he went to New York.  Also this argument, is not just about clothes as you put it.  It's about remembering things about me, your partner, and not about Brian."

 

 

 

"Why shouldn't I remember things about Brian? He's my..."

 

 

 

"I know who he is for fuck sake!  Look the simple fact is this: I don't want to be second in this relationship. It needs to be me then Brian, and do you really think that he's going to put you over Justin?"

 

 

 

"Of course he will.  You..."

 

 

 

"No, he won't!  Do you love me Michael? I mean more than Brian?"

 

 

 

"Of course I do. You know that or I wouldn't be with you.  What's with all these questions? You are missing the point and that's that I should have been told and you lied to me.  And by not telling me you lied."

 

 

 

I cross my arms and glower at him smugly. Now question your way out of that I think to myself.

 

 

 

"But if Brian loved Justin more than you, would you be okay with that?"

 

 

 

I scoff.  "Brian doesn't do love... well only for a few select friends."

 

 

 

"And there's your problem! You can't see passed the past."  Sighing he gets up.  "And it's beginning to affect our future.  Change it before we no longer have one."

 

 

CHAPTER 17: TRUTH

 

 

 

BRITIN - MONDAY MORNING

 

 

 

MAIN BEDROOM

 

 

 

BRIAN

 

 

 

Seriously this is ridiculous!  We got home last night after show and tell and collapsed in bed and now his leg is resting on my cock but he's moving it up and down in his sleep.  I look down at him and realise that for someone who's supposed to be asleep he's got a small smile on his face and his eyelids are struggling to remain closed.

 

 

 

"Stop it.  I have a meeting I have to prep for."  I kiss the top of his head.  "Come on shower and I'll drop you off."

 

 

 

"Okay.  But just five more minutes?"  He looks hopefully through his lashes at me.  

 

 

 

I shake my head.  "No more minutes...up!"

 

 

 

"Yes you are!"  He chuckles unwinding himself from my body and sits up and shivers.  "Wow its cold in here!"

 

 

 

When I put my feet on the floor I pull them back in the bed.

 

 

 

"Fuck!  The heating seems to have packed up!"

 

 

 

Reaching across to the drawer, I manage to pull out socks and hand him a pair.  I pad across to the wardrobe and pull out some sweats.

 

 

 

"Here put these on.  Let's see what the fuck is going on."

 

 

 

The house feels like a block of ice and when we get to the boiler it's off and after half an hour of trying to light the pilot light we give up and huddle together for warmth.

 

 

 

"I do not need this today.  This is why I need staff."  I gripe.  "Shit the water's going to be cold too."

 

 

 

I start to pace to try and formulate a plan until I'm stopped in mid-stride by his amused expression.

 

 

 

"Queening?"  I ask.

 

 

 

"Just a bit.  Which is nearer Slick, office or The Loft?"  He looks thoughtful.

 

 

 

"Office definitely...and I have a change of clothes and a shower in there."

 

 

 

"You have a shower in your office?  Never mind back on the point...  So we go back there, you have a shower and then I can...ah doesn't solve the heating problem here though."  His shoulders slump slightly.

 

 

 

"Yeah no it doesn't.  Oh wait, Slick might know an engineer who can help. Let me call her."

 

 

 

Slick gives me a list of people, one who can be here in 30 minutes.  "Justin, would you be okay to stay here and let him in?"

 

 

 

He nods and then twists his lip.  "Slick might not be happy with me being here this morning, I don't want to take advantage of..."

 

 

 

"Trust me, if Slick thinks you're pulling a fast one she will let you know.  The only problem is you are going to be cold until he gets here.  Wait a second...Kinney, oh hi Slick..."

 

 

 

10 minutes later I'm on my way to the office and Slick is on her way here with the engineer.

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

I love this place. When he first bought it I did think, jeez how many people are going to live here? But the way he's done it is lovely.

 

 

 

But fuck a duck! Its cold in here and poor Justin looks like a kid playing dress up in Brian's sweats but at least he's warm.

 

 

 

"Okay first things first, boiler thingy is in the garage and, you and me, need to go to the mud room."  I order Allen, the engineer, and Justin respectively.

 

 

 

I try not to smirk about how cute Justin looks and quickly find the wood pile.

 

 

 

"Ever lit a fire?"  I ask him and judging by that blank expression the answer is no.  "Fine follow what I do."

 

 

 

We head to the kitchen first.  And after about 20 minutes, the room is nice and warm. We put the guard up and go through the rest of the house.

 

 

 

We're working in companionable silence but I know he wants to ask that question.

 

 

 

"He was a cop. Used to beat her.  She left him and they swore he would never find us but he did. When she refused to come back, he shot her.  No I wasn't there nor did I find her.  Did go to the trial and looked him in the eye every day until they sent him down.  Does that cover them all?"

 

 

 

"Yeah, sorry."

 

 

 

"Don't be.  Just tell your mom and Daphne so I don't have to repeat it."

 

 

 

I hear Allen calling me to say everything's done and he'll see himself out.

 

 

 

"So this kerplunk yesterday am figuring since you're here it's all sorted and you're back to lovey-dovey-ness?"

 

 

 

He nods and grins and then his smile falters, and I sigh.  "Out with it."  I order. He tries to look innocent.  "Just ask how I know.  Because I'm not going to answer a question that you haven't asked when it concerns him."

 

 

 

"How do you know he's a big boy?"  He mumbles.

 

 

 

"Contrary to popular belief, just because I work cars that doesn't make me a dyke.  I appreciate a beautiful cock.  He asked me to look after he was given the all clear and I told him he looked great but..."

 

 

 

"Yeah, he does."  He whispers and then he winces.  "But he's..."

 

 

 

"Yes he is.  But he really cares about you and won't hurt you like that.  So when it's time, just go with it.  Effectively you're both virgins so teach each other.  And for the love of fuck, learn to talk to each other too. I won't always be there to pull your heads out your asses!"

 

 

 

"Yes ma'am."  Brian's voice startles us both and I wince a bit, hoping he's not upset by the virgin comment.

 

 

 

"Okay that's me, I'm done. See you Wednesday."

 

 

 

"Slick?  Are you sure you want to be alone tomorrow?"  Justin asks.

 

 

 

I pause and shrug, then let myself out.

 

 

 

JENNIFER TAYLOR'S HOUSE - EARLY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

JENNIFER

 

 

 

"Molly?  Sweetheart say something."

 

 

 

She's sitting there still and quiet before slowly picking up her iPad and dialling a number.

 

 

 

"Molly?"

 

 

 

"Mom please!"

 

 

 

MOLLY

 

 

 

I wait for it to be picked up and it's Lucy.

 

 

 

"Hi Lucy, is dad about?  Can you stay I need you to answer this too?"

 

 

 

"Of course, one minute.  Craig!  It's Molly."

 

 

 

A few seconds later dad comes to the screen smiling at me.

 

 

 

"Darling how was camp?  Oh hello Jennifer, I trust you're well?"

 

 

 

"I'm..."

 

 

 

"Camp was fine dad.  So about Justin.  Mom tells me that he's in Pittsburgh, never was in New York and never said anything about not wanting me as his sister. In fact you lied to us just because Justin is gay and I wonder Lucy if you knew about that?  And yes I said is because despite your efforts to cast him to the wolves, he's very much alive!  Now answer the question Lucy?"

 

 

 

"Who's Justin?"  Lucy asks bewildered.

 

 

 

"Who's Justin?  Oh my God! Lucy, you have my number give me a call and I'll explain everything, if you want.  Goodbye Mr Taylor."

 

 

 

I hang up and feel mom's arms come around me.  "I'm sorry sweetheart. I really didn't know what he said until you told me."

 

 

 

"C-can I see him?"

 

 

 

"Of course he's coming with some friends for dinner on Saturday and..."

 

 

 

"N-no I mean before then?"  I wipe my eyes and sit up.  "I want to apologise to him."

 

 

 

"What do you... Never mind.  Why don't you ask him yourself, I have a number for him?"  She waits for my nod and dials a number.  "Justin, it's mom I have someone who wants to talk to you."

 

 

 

"Ju-Justin is that really you, my Jester?!"  I cry.

 

 

 

SLICK'S APARTMENT - TUESDAY AFTERNOON

 

 

 

SLICK

 

 

 

I know I usually stay by myself but I'm really lonely.  Not just today but in my life outside the emporium, I'm lonely.  Seeing what Brian and Justin are trying to build, in their sweet stumbling and bumbling way, and Emmy Lou and Idaho, it really hits me. I need to open up more.

 

 

 

"Hey Emmy Lou I was wondering, if you're not busy at some point today - huh what do you mean look out the window?"

 

 

 

I head to the window and there is Emmy Lou, Idaho, Brian, Justin and Debs...wait and is that Carl?  Yes it's Carl, waving at me.  "Get in here you beautiful people!  How long have you been out there?!"  I blubber.

 

 

 

I run to the door and fling it open and am immediately engulfed in a hug by Debs.  "About half an hour, debating who was going to call you.  Jeez it's fucking cold out here!"  Debs exclaims.

 

"And next year you come to me, you hear?"  She whispers and I nod into her neck.

 

 

 

Emmy Lou sets out some food, Brian opens the wine and we settle down.

 

 

 

"So what was she like?  Your mom, tell us about her."  Debs asks gently.

 

 

 

And for the first time in years on this day, I shed happy tears.

 

 

 

RED CAPE COMICS - WEDNESDAY MORNING

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I'm still steaming because of what happened over the weekend.  However, he's been out of the city on a course, so I've not had much time to speak to him.  He's back on Friday so, hopefully, he will pull his head out of his suddenly jealous ass and get back to being the Ben I knew before he started keeping secrets.  In fact, if anyone should be jealous it should be me!

 

 

 

I'm leafing through the newly arrived stock and look up as the door goes.  "Emmett."  I snark.

 

 

 

He rolls his eyes.  "Oh for goodness sake Michael grow up.  You would've found out at the same time as us if you were there.  Now I need a copy of any comic you have with Medusa in it please?"

 

 

 

I gape at him.  "Can you repeat that?"

 

 

 

"Comic with Medusa in it please, as many as you have, obviously different editions."

 

 

 

I go and get them in a state of shock.  "That will be $10.80."

 

 

 

"There you go.  I hope she likes them. He said they were her favourites but he was too busy to come in today."

 

 

 

"Who and who are you talking about?"

 

 

 

"Oh these are for Molly, Justin's sister. We're all going to dinner on Saturday.  Ciao!"

 

 

 

Before I could ask anything else, he was gone.

 

 

 

BRITIN - WEDNESDAY EVENING

 

 

 

MASTER BEDROOM

 

 

 

JUSTIN

 

 

 

We've both had a long day.  I've been working on some drawings for the show and he's been yelling at his art department.  I still can't believe I'm going to see Molly on Saturday!  When we finished talking I cried for about 20 minutes soaking his Gucci shirt, which was added to my list of debts!  I'm beginning to suspect an ulterior motive here...and I'm happy about that!

 

 

 

We were originally going to stay at my place but he wanted to get out of town, so here we are.

 

 

 

It's still a bit cold in the house, but I've got this fire building down to fine art.  But the splinters are a bitch to get out especially from my right hand as I just can't get the grip on the tweezers.

 

 

 

"What did I say about using the heavy duty gloves?"

 

 

 

"I know but it was just one log and it slipped as I was putting it in."  I shake my head at his childish snort.  "Can you stop being dirty minded and help me remove the splinters."

 

 

 

He's still chuckling as he takes the tweezers off of me and peers at my hand.  "You've got quite a few, let me get the ointment first.  You might need some Beam... you know for the shock and all."

 

 

 

I poke my tongue out at his retreating back but do pour two glasses.

 

 

 

"Okay now be a bwave widdle boy and give me your hand. Do you want a sucker?"

 

 

 

"Do you want a swat round the head?"

 

 

 

"Operation remove splinters commencing."

 

 

 

He moves the light so he can see better.  And although he was teasing me, some of them were a bit deep and I did try and pull my hand away.  But his grip was firm and finally they were all out.

 

 

 

He strokes my palm.  "There what a bwave ickle...ouch hey no hitting the doctor or I won't put the ointment on!"

 

 

 

"Sorry doctor, please continue."

 

 

 

"That's better."

 

 

 

He takes the ointment and gently dabs it onto each spot where the splinter was.  "Brian?"

 

 

 

"Hmm?"

 

 

 

"Will it hurt?"

 

 

 

"Will what hurt?"

 

 

 

"Have...making love with you, will it hurt the first time?"

 

 

 

He looks up at me and smiles tenderly.  "Yes it will hurt but only for a little bit.  But I will try and be as gentle as possible.  I will prepare you like I did in New York and after a bit of a burn, it will feel so good."

 

 

 

"Better than your fingers and tongue?"

 

 

 

"Yes."

 

 

 

"Good."

 

 

 

He tilts my head up and gently kisses me on the mouth.  I deepen the kiss and inch slowly towards him as he wraps his arms around me and slides his hands up the back of my shirt.  I arch up into his chest as his hands aren't as warm as I thought they would be and gasp into his mouth.

 

 

 

"They'll heat up."  He murmurs and reclaims my mouth.

 

 

 

I reach down to his shirt and start to undo the buttons and nip at his neck, slowly pushing him backwards.  I remember what he did to my nipples and repay the pleasure, eliciting soft moans of appreciation.  I kiss down his stomach and swirl my tongue in his belly button, he has a cute little inny and it seems it's a little sensitive, judging by the gasping and squirming.

 

 

 

Slowly moving down, I pause at his jeans. Although we've talked about it, I can still see he's nervous. After a slightly tense moment, he nods his head and I pop the buttons as he lifts his hips.  I inhale his pubes and they smell heavenly, earthy and masculine.  I nuzzle his cock before taking his ball into my mouth in one swoop. Whilst my tongue rolls around it, his hips buck and he makes a yelping noise.  Lavishing attention on it elicits more cries of delight, rolling hips and hair grabbing.  I move to the other one and pay homage to that.

 

 

 

I'm steeling myself to take him in my mouth because he's a bit intimidating even when he's not erect.

 

 

 

"J-just take the head in first and lick my slit."  He instructs gently.  "I'll tap you when I need you to stop..."

 

 

 

"Why would you need me to stop?"  I keep stroking and kissing his thighs and balls.

 

 

 

"Because I make a lot."  He smiles lazily.  "And you...oh!"

 

 

 

I stop his chatter by sucking him straight down.  I may be a virgin but I know how to blow and ten minutes later he knows how well.

 

 

 

"That w-was fantastic!"  He manages to pant out as the last of his orgasm shudders through him.

 

 

 

"Y-yeah it was."  I groan and wait for my body to come down from mine.

 

 

 

"Come up here."  I slide up his body and we devour each other in a hot kiss before heading to the shower.

 

 

 

And for the first time since I've been sharing a bed with him, he sleeps naked.

 

 

 

CRAIG TAYLOR'S HOUSE - THURSDAY EARLY EVENING

 

 

 

LOUNGE

 

 

 

CRAIG

 

 

 

I've finally managed to persuade Molly to come around and hear things from my point of view.

 

 

 

"I'll get it!"  Lucy calls out.  "Molly, I'm so pleased to see you come...who are you?"

 

 

 

I frown at that and get up to check when I'm confronted by not only Molly but Jennifer and his best friend Daphne.  Before I can say anything I am holding my cheek where Daphne has slapped me so hard my ear is ringing.

 

 

 

"That's for fucking Paris Mr Cuntface!"  She growls and then stamps my foot so hard I think she's broken toes.  "And that's for causing us to walk all over New York trying to find him for 3 fucking years!"

 

 

 

"Ouch what the hell...Lucy get the police!"  I shout at her but she's stock still, reading something.

 

 

 

Slowly she looks up at me, with tears in her eyes.  "He was bashed at his prom Craig.  You left him with nothing and nobody because he's gay?!"

 

 

 

"Is that what they've told you, I explained to..."

 

 

 

"No this is what he told me in the article that led..."

 

 

 

"Come on Lucy be rational and think!  He's clearly told them about me to discredit me in the eyes of the..."

 

 

 

"No!  He never mentioned your name at all.  Read the article Craig, you'll see what a strong young man he's grown into despite having your genes!"  She flings the article at my feet and storms upstairs.

 

 

 

I have managed to hobble to the chair.  "Molly, please listen to me, what I did..."

 

 

 

"Was despicable.  And now you're childless. You don't accept Justin then I don't accept you."

 

 

 

"Molly!  Now just..."

 

 

 

"Mom, Daphne can you help me get what few things I want from this place to the car?  It won't take long."

 

 

 

They turn and head upstairs.  I gingerly unlace my shoe and take it off to inspect my foot. There is already a bruise starting to form.  And my rage begins to surface as they come downstairs and start to leave.

 

 

 

"Have you thought what he's been doing out there?  How's he survived those long years with no money? Let's face it. He was most likely..."  My scream of pain ends that sentence as Jennifer stamps on my other foot.

 

 

 

"Read.the.article. Craig."  She hisses.

 

 

 

"You shouldn't have done that."  Lucy's voice cuts in behind us.  I turn my head and smile through my pain at her change in tune.

 

 

 

"You should've let him finish, because I would gladly have supported any case for defamation of character!"

 

 

 

I roll my eyes at their laughter but make sure both feet are off the floor.

 

 

 

"Can we drop you anywhere, Lucy, is it?  Excuse my manners, I'm Jennifer."

 

 

 

"Nice to meet you Jennifer, although I wish it was under better circumstances.  Yes, if that's not too much trouble."  Turning back to me she says, "I'll send my cousin and brother to collect the rest of my things, and if there is anything damaged, your feet will be the least of your concerns.  You know how much my brother likes you after all.  Ladies, shall we go."

 

 

 

"Yes."  Casting one more disgusted look in my direction, Daphne snarks.  "And I don't know about you but after that I could use a shower and a drink!"

 

 

 

The last thing I hear before the door shuts is their laughter.

 

 

 

DINER - FRIDAY LUNCHTIME

 

 

 

MICHAEL

 

 

 

I head to our usual booth and inwardly heave a sigh of relief.  It's only Ted there.  "Hi Ted, how have you been?"

 

 

 

He looks puzzled before finishing his mouthful of coffee.  "Are you asking about me or in a roundabout way asking about Brian?"

 

 

 

"You of course!   Mother may I have some coffee?"  I call out.

 

 

 

"Ask Kiki she's running that section!"  She calls back dashing back to the kitchen.

 

 

 

"Kiki when you're ready."  I call out to her.

 

 

 

The bell ringing and Ted waving makes me turn round and Emmett is coming in, wearing an outfit that makes him look like a lemon and lime Popsicle. How he gets customers I have no idea.

 

 

 

"Good afternoon Teddy, Michael.  Oh I'm famished, I can't wait to..."

 

 

 

I roll my eyes.  "You're around food all day. How can you be hungry?"

 

 

 

"That food is not for me to eat willy-nilly.  It is to sell to customers Michael.  Now has the alarm gone?"

 

 

 

"Alarm? I have no idea what you are talking about.  But I haven't even got a cup of coffee yet."  I bristle.  "Kiki, can we have some service!"

 

 

 

"Hold your horses, you're not the only one here!"  She snaps back.

 

 

 

"Hey Carl!  Can you sit at the back? I'm swamped right now."  Mother flies passed after giving him a brief kiss on the cheek.

 

 

 

"Emmett, Ted, Michael, mind if I sit?"  Before I can say anything, Ted is moving over.

 

 

 

"Why's it so busy in here today?"  I ask.

 

 

 

"Same reason every end of the month, Stew Friday!"  Emmett wriggles in his seat and both Carl and I look confused.

 

 

 

"Did I miss it, has it been served yet?"  Blake comes dashing in and Carl gets up to let him sit next to Ted.

 

 

 

"No, and in answer to your confused expressions.  At the end of every month Slick and Cujo prepare one of their legendary big pots and they sell it here, with all the proceeds going to the centre and leftovers to St Peters.  Ah here's Hunter... they're on their way!"

 

 

 

The diner goes quiet as Slick, Cujo and two other people bring in pots of food and they are followed by Brian and Justin, who slide in next to Carl and Emmett respectively.

 

 

 

"What we got honey?"  Mother calls out and is crossing her fingers.

 

 

 

"Goat or vegetable curry with rice and flatbreads."  Slick replies earning a smacking kiss on her cheek from a leather bear and cheering from some booths.

 

 

 

"I had no idea at all that you were feeding us once a month!"  Justin's gaze has not left the pans.  "Do you need any help?"

 

 

 

"No you sit there and Brian do something about his drooling."  She chuckles.

 

 

 

Soon food is being plated up.  "Kiki, could I have a burger with fries and one more time- a cup of coffee?"  I ask, nearly losing what little patience I have left.

 

 

 

"Coffee you can have but since its Stew Friday, we only serve what they cook.  So what will it be?"

 

 

 

"Just coffee."  I reply stiffly.

 

 

 

"You're missing out Michael. This is delicious!"  Carl tells me and I roll my eyes.

 

 

 

"So Brian, what are you up to this evening?"  I ask him, ignoring the rumble my stomach is making.

 

 

 

"Tonight I have a client meeting and..."

 

 

 

"So we can do something tomorrow then?"  I interject.

 

 

 

"Nope, have plans tomorrow.   But maybe I can see you on Sunday."  He looks thoughtful.  "Yeah Sunday should work."

 

 

 

Maybe? Should work?  I blink rapidly and hide my grimace in my cup.

 

 

 

"Oh this is so good, do we get to have seconds?"  Justin sighs.  "Or can I just have that little piece right there?"

 

 

 

He bats his lashes at Brian, who slides the food over to him with a put upon sigh much to Emmett's amusement.

 

 

 

"Okay I've got to prepare for this meeting. Ted, I'll see you back there.  Mikey, your stomach sounds like a washing machine... just eat something already. I will call you about Sunday later."

 

 

 

He then brushes Justin's cheek and puts on his coat.  "See you later and remember to use the damn gloves. Though I did enjoy the resultant end to the game of doctor and pat..."

 

 

 

"I'll use the gloves, just go!"  He goes bright red and then studiously ignores our questioning looks.

 

 

 

"So Justin sweetie, you need to remember that he will tell Slick and Slick will tell me."  Emmett grins.  "So why not cut out the middle woman and dish!"

 

 

 

"Emmett, this is none of our business!"  I berate him and everyone looks at me in surprise.

 

 

 

"Wow Michael I never thought I would hear you say that. Thank you."  Ben's voice surprises me and Emmett gets up to let him sit next to me.  "Did I miss it?"

 

 

 

"It's okay dad, I saved you some.  Goat or veggie?"  Hunter calls out.

 

 

 

"Oh goat please. I'm starving!"  He gives me a kiss on the cheek and smiles at me.

 

 

 

Just as I was about to tell him something a bell rings.  "What's that about?"

 

 

 

"End of Stew Friday."  Hunter advises.   "Come on Justin, you can help me take it to St Peter's. By which I mean you sit and wait in the van and we load it up."

 

 

 

"Hey!"  But he gets up.  "Emmett, Carl, Debs, see you guys tomorrow!"  He calls back as he leaves.

 

 

 

"Oh Ben, we've got plans with Brian on Sunday.  That's not a problem is it?"

 

 

 

The fork pauses midway to his mouth and he turns to me his eyes stormy. "Yes it is a problem."

 

 

 

"Why? What is it this time?"  I sigh dramatically.

 

 

 

"Because Sunday is my birthday Michael."  He stands up and heads to the counter.  "Kiki, can I have this to go please?"

 

 

 

As he leans against the counter her glares at me.  "Hi Brian, its Ben. Listen, would you mind not coming around on Sunday because...oh that's not the impression I got from Michael.   Okay thanks sorry to have disturbed you.  Yeah talk to you later."

 

 

 

He leans over to take his coat.  "Your best friend told me that he would let you know about Sunday, not that we are confirmed.  You've pushed it too far... See you later."