CHAPTER 1: HOUSE OF HIS PRINCE AND BEING THE BOSS

MONDAY MID-MORNING OUTSIDE BRITIN

MICHAEL

When they cancelled the wedding, I was secretly pleased. I knew he didn’t want to get married and this was Boy Wonder’s stupid idea! But when he told us about the house they are going to move into instead, I had to see it. Now that I’m standing outside staring at it, I’m incredulous!  This is what he bought him! Him... of all fucking people!  I look at the size of the place.

“Brian, you can fit all of us in this place!”  I tell him through gritted teeth.

“Yes, it’s absolutely gorgeous!”  Lindsay looks around. “Are you refurbishing it?  Do you need some help? I would really like to make some suggestions, especially with Gus’s room.”

“And I want a say in the room that’s JR’s.”  I add.

“Huh? Oh yeah we’re refurbishing it. Justin is decorating the rooms.” Brian replies, reading some papers.

“He is?” Lindsay asks. “What about going to New York? Didn’t he read the review?”

“Yeah, but it’s up to him what he wants to do. Where the hell is the car?”  He frowns.

“Car?” I ask.

“Yeah. We’ve got a new service with Kinnetic and they’re running…” There’s a beeping outside.  “Finally!”  He growls as he stalks to the door, holding it open for Lindsay and me.

“Oh my God Brian!” Lindsay sighs. “What a beautiful car!”

BRIAN

I just stop and stare. Sitting in our drive is a Daimler V8-250 in dark grey and standing waiting is a chauffeur.

“As lovely as this car is, you’re late.” I tell him gruffly.

“No, I’m not.” I’m taken aback by two things: one, that the person answered me back and secondly, that the he is a she.

“Pardon?” Lindsay gets in before I do.

“One moment.”  She takes out her phone.  “Hey it’s me, I’m at the Kinney residence. Can you confirm the pick-up time by resending the email to the client? Thanks.” She leans back against the car and waits. Her phone beeps and she looks at her phone but doesn’t look at me. I frown, finding that rude. “Mr Kinney, can you check your email please?”

I open my email and she’s 20 minutes early. “My apologies. I have a temporary assistant and she never sent me the last email.”

“Fine.” Her tone is gruff but I don’t think it’s directed at me. I think she’s a bit pissed off with the way that Michael is running his nail along the trim. “Don’t do that!”  She orders.  “Unless of course, you can afford to respray the car.”

He looks up to see if she’s serious…even Stevie Wonder could see that she is!

“So Mr Kinney, shall we go?”  She asks and I nod and once again, I frown. She opens the car door for me and the moment I get in she closes the car door and gets in. Lindsay then taps sharply on the window immediately, she tenses up and winds it down quickly.  “Yes, can I help you?”

“We are coming with him!” She snaps.

“I wasn’t aware of that.” She replies coldly. “My schedule says for one person. And that is Mr Kinney. If that has changed, then I need authorisation from Mr Kinney to allow you in the car.”

“We don’t need his permission to get in the car!”  Michael declares heatedly.

“You do when I’m driving it.”  She retorts.

“They have my permission.” I reply and she unlocks the doors but still they stand there.  “Just get in!” I demand, the chauffeur and my eyes lock and I frown again.  “Get in for fuck sake!”

“Where am I dropping them off, Mr Kinney? Your first appointment is way across town and we need to drop them off first?”

“Liberty Avenue.” I tell her and she starts the engine and puts up the partition but again our eyes lock and she smirks. The Daimler just glides down the drive. I look around the car. It is gorgeous with dark blue leather interior; it smells new.

“She was really rude!” Lindsay complains to me but I just shrug as I don’t think she was. She was most probably just following the protocol that the company set out.

“Michael, take your feet off the seats.” I ask.

“Don’t you think she was rude?”  Lindsay repeats.

“To who?  I was wrong about the timing and…”

“To me, she was rude to me! And threatening to Michael.”

“Again Michael, feet!”  I order and he reluctantly lowers them to the floor.

“This is very nice though.”  Lindsay virtually purrs, stroking the seats.

“Liberty Avenue.” Her voice comes over the intercom and for about a minute or two they stay in the car.

“You’re going to make me late.” I point out and finally they clamber out with Michael slamming the door really hard.

Immediately, she kills the engine and gets out.

Seriously what the fuck?!

“Hey!” She yells at Michael’s retreating back and he stops walking. “If you’ve fucked up the lock or done anything with the paint, I’m pretty sure Mr Kinney won’t like the bill!”

He looks incredulously at her before shrugging and walking away. She opens the door and checks the lock then looks at the trim Michael was playing with.  After a couple of minutes, she gets back in and clears her throat.

“Right, here we go.”  She starts the engine again.

“Actually, can we stop for a minute and get out?”  I ask.

She gets out and opens the door for me. I step out and we both look at each other for a couple of minutes. Then I take off her hat and tilt up her chin and kiss her softly on the lips.

“It had better be you.” I whisper.

“It’s me.”  She whispers back and I pull her into my arms.

“Christ!” I can feel my throat start to close up. “Okay, explain on the way Miss Ruthie!”

“Okay Aiden!” She grins.

“Truce!” I put my hands up and get in the car.

RUTH, THE CHAUFFEUR

I still can’t believe I did it! I have Brian Kinney in my car!

I haven’t seen him since he went to college. We used to hang around the neighbourhood we grew up in. We became fast but secret friends because his mom and my mom clashed immediately. Being a child of a single mother was just sacrilege back then. Not only that, but I had the temerity to be smart too! Like Brian, I went to college and studied business management but while he went to Carnegie, I got a place at New York Business School, while we never saw each other we stayed in touch by email, at least once a year.

Although I run AngelCars with my business partner, I don’t have much input because I have the bed and breakfasts to run. When he told me that we got the contract for Kinnetic, I persuaded my partner to let me pick him up.

When I got to Britin, I just loved it... well from the outside. When he came out, I kept my head down but then I was soon distracted by the two rude people he was with.

“So how the long have you been back in the Pitts?”

“About 10 years. Took some time setting up the B&B and running that and the one in New York. AngelCars was doing okay but I took my eye off the ball. When I saw the cars that he was using, I thought fuck that and changed all the cars so here we are.”

“I can’t believe you’re back. I’m so happy to…”  I look in the mirror and immediately pull over and get in the back with him. “Wait a second, I need to call the office.”  Ten minutes later, we’re on our way back to Britin.

BRITIN – 40 MINUTES LATER

KITCHEN

BRIAN

I still can’t believe Ruth is back in Pittsburgh. I tell her everything that has happened with Justin and me.

“I would’ve been there in a heartbeat if you had told me!” She shouts and smacks me upside the head as only Ruth can, when I tell her about the prom.

“Ouch!  Do you want to know the rest or not?”

“Shushing, see I’m shushing!” I grin and continue. For a couple of minutes, she’s silent. “I just don’t get why you didn’t get married though?!” She looks exasperated and I can’t help but laugh at her expression. “What?” She glares at me.

“It’s the same expression you had when my mom told your mom that we couldn’t be friends!”

“And look how that worked out?!”  She grins.

“You called her silly and I remember the baubles on your braids clacking as you stomped off in annoyance.”  I sigh. “What am I going to do?”

“We. Shouldn’t it be what are we going to do?”  She corrects.

“Every time I try and talk about it, Justin shuts down and we end up arguing instead and…”

“Not Justin, doofus! You and me!” She grins mischievously.  “Does Justin know about me?”

“He knows I have a good friend in New York but apart from that no.”

“I’m hurt.” She sprawls dramatically on the table before lifting her head. “So why don’t I find out how he really feels? The B&B is going great it runs by itself; Paul is a genius.”  I frown at her.  “Consider me your Cyrano de Bergerac in chauffeur form.”

“What?”

“People get remarkably chatty when they think you aren’t important. Look at the way your haughty friend behaved this morning. She was so rude and when I told the guy about the way he treated the car, he just looked at me as if I was something he stepped in.  So let me handle this.”

“If this is to work, you might have to deal with them a bit more as she’s the mother of my child and he’s my best friend. And there’s the rest of the family. They like to have a lot of input.”

“Great, just great.” She sighs. “I can see a lot of tongue biting while they’re in the car in my future!”

“You might need to consider a mouth guard.”  I smile and feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

“Oh fuck!”

CHAPTER 2: MAKING PLANS

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE – WEDNESDAY MORNING

KITCHEN

MEL

Lindsay has been moping a bit since she came back from Britin on Monday afternoon.  I’ve not got time for this; I’ve got to get to get to court.  After feeding JR, I call Lindsay yet again!

“Honey, you’ve got to come down now.  I can’t leave JR by herself.  Gus and I have to go!”

“Coming!”  She calls down.

“Yeah right.” I mutter to myself as she takes another 5 minutes to come downstairs.  “Lindsay come on I can’t be late!”

When she deigns to come down she has an armful of magazines.  “What on earth is all that?”

“Home design magazines.”  She replies airily.

“Oh okay, we’ll discuss that tonight.  See ya!”  I go to kiss her cheek but she swans passed me.

As I get in the driver’s seat, I try not to seethe.  Because of Brian fucking Kinney, we are still here! We were all set to go to Canada. We could start again away from the bombing, the hatred, the loss of our friends, especially Dusty. But more importantly, away from him.

But when he asked how we were going to support ourselves over there, I was surprised. I had assumed that the agreement would be as normal. But apparently, he too got some fucking perspective and said that if we wanted to go then he wouldn’t stop us but he sure as hell wasn’t going to pay for us to do it!  I was fucking furious.

Then when he said that he wanted a revised visitation agreement or the support payments would stop I hated him even more. Although they were ad-hoc payments, they were helpful and once again he has a hold on us.  So in order to loosen that hold, here I am heading to a place I had hoped never to be working again!  

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE

LOUNGE

LINDSAY

I have finally gotten JR down. Oh God, she does whine like her father! I spread the magazines out and smile. Then I realise what I need to do. I need to take pictures of all the rooms in Britin. I grab my phone and call Debs.

“Debs, it’s Lindz. I’m fine, no JR is fine as is Gus.  Can you come and baby…oh you’ve got a double shift.  But I need to go into town and I can’t take her with me.  Oh I see, okay then.”

I scowl at the phone in annoyance and try to think who else I can call. I’m startled when the phone rings and it’s Marie. Ten minutes later, I start to pack JR’s stuff and head to her house, relieved that I can get on with what needs to be done.

MICHAEL & BEN’S HOUSE

BEN

I love Michael, I really do.  But this is actually getting ridiculous!

“Michael, they just cancelled the wedding because the timing wasn’t right. They’ve not stopped loving each other.”

He scoffs and rolls his eyes. “Until it gets too difficult again and we have to pick up the pieces.”

“What pieces are there to pick up?” I ask. “They came to a mutual decision and are still with each other as evidenced by what we walked in on at the weekend.”

He glares at me before stomping to the kitchen. I take the opportunity of his back being turned to smile in recollection of the expression on his face, when he walked into the loft, despite me saying we should knock…

Start of flashback

THE LOFT – SATURDAY AFTERNOON

BEN

We are in the elevator and once more I try to get Michael to see reason.

“Michael, I really don’t think you should be using your key as and when you want to. This isn’t…”

“What do you think the key is for, Ben?”

“Emergencies! Wanting to find out if Brian wants to go for a drink and shoot some pool is not an emergency.  Besides, couldn’t you have called first?”

“I’ve been calling. He’s not answering.” He replies, heading determinedly to the door and opening it.

“Oh fuck!  Oh-oh-oh!  Yes Brian, Ah yes!”  Justin calls out as he and Brian go at it on the sofa.

“Don’t come yet, don’t come yet!  Oh so good!”  Brian pants.

“Brian!” Justin gasps. “Oh please there, yes there!”

“There? You want me right there?” Brian teases.

“Please, please!”

They start kissing so I take that moment to pull Michael out and quietly close the door. Then taking the keys out of his slack fingers, I lock the door and pocket the key.

When we get back to the car, I nudge him. “He seems fine.” He doesn’t laugh as heartily as I do.

End of flashback

“Ben! Did you hear what I said?” Michael’s sharp tone brings me back to earth.

“No sorry. What did you say?” I ask.

“I was telling you about the size of that fucking house! They don’t need something that big!”

“Why…”

“Because it’s got about nine bedrooms and there’s…”

“No. I mean why is it a fucking house? And not just a house? And how do you know what they need with regards to their living arrangements?”

“There is only two of them! Whatever they are doing with those rooms they better keep people out of JR’s room! And clean up after whatever they’re done using the rooms for whenever they’re using it for before we stay in them.”

JR’s room?

“Why would JR need a room?”  I ask.

He sighs and looks at me as if I’m being dense. “Where else is she going to stay when we visit?”

“She doesn’t need her own room in Britin and besides…”

“Gus is getting a room.”  He argues.

“Why is Gus getting a room?  He lives with his mothers and I doubt that Mel would be happy about that.”

“Lindsay said he was.” He mutters. “And I don’t see why JR should be treated any differently to him.”

“Brian wouldn’t do that. But that doesn’t mean he should give her a room in their house.  And besides, how do you know Gus is getting a room? Just because Lindsay says he is doesn’t mean he is. It’s not her house. There’s also the little matter of Mel.”

“I still say she should get a room.” He mumbles and stomps upstairs.

I sigh and go back to grading papers, hoping that Michael just leaves them alone to do what they want to do.

JUSTIN’S STUDIO, BAKER’S PLACE

JUSTIN

I have a stack of house magazines in front of me and the plans from the architect. I still can’t believe he bought Britin for me and said that I can do all the rooms up! The only one he wants to do himself is his office and he wants us both to work on the master bedroom. The stables are going to be changed into a studio as I found out pretty quickly that I can’t do hay! I was so itchy when we got out of there. Calamine lotion is totally not sexy! Although, the way he applied it was…well, the second time, it stayed on!

Brian seems to be in a better mood since Monday.  He hasn’t brought up New York or the review but has said that we’ve got a new car service to ferry us about, which to be honest I’m happy about! I like the name AngelCars and apparently, we have a designated driver called Ruth and I’m to always ask for her. He told me about their first meeting and how she almost left the entitled eejits there.  Good on her I say.

“Justin, are you in there?” Lindsay’s voice calls out and I freeze, thankful that I locked the door.

I reach over for my phone and put it on silent and wait with baited breath.  “Justin!  It’s me Lindz!”

My phone starts to flash and I grind my teeth.  Lindz indeed!  Wonder what she wants this time?!

Finally after another five minutes, she seems to leave but I’m not taking my chances on opening the door immediately.  And I was right not to because she clearly doesn’t know about the 3rd step that creaks when you walk down it but not when you walk up it…this building is odd and helpful that way!

I creep to the window and watch her exit the building and I have a feeling I know exactly where she’s going…and if she’s not well I need to get rid of this jittery feeling I have.

“Hey it’s me.  What are you doing right this second?  Okay see you in ten minutes.”

FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER

“Fuck me!”  Brian growls tugging at his pants.  “Now!”

I don’t get to top him that often and I’m not missing this opportunity!  Twenty sweaty minutes later I lay there stunned coming down from the intensity of my orgasm.

“So what was that about?”  I ask as he gingerly turns over onto his back. 

He shrugs.  “Same thing your call was about I guess.”

We say nothing for a while then start to get dressed.

BLOOM GALLERY – 90 MINUTES LATER

LINDSAY

I have been trying Brian and Justin for the last hour or so and neither of them are picking up.  I’m distracted trying to formulate the design for Gus’s room that I don’t hear Sidney talking to me.

“Lindsay, are you alright?”

“Oh sorry Sidney, things on my mind.  What were you saying?”

“The Renaissance and the Post-Modernist shows, I’ve confirmed them with Emmett, so can I leave you to liaise with him with regards to the rest?”

“Of course, not a problem.”  I smile at him and as soon as he leaves, I roll my eyes.

Actually, it is going to be a problem. I’m still mad at Emmett! After they cancelled the wedding, I casually mentioned to Justin that he was wasting his time here when his talents could be better appreciated in New York.  Emmett pipes up that he could paint anywhere like Britin. I was fuming that Emmett, of all fucking people, knew about Britin before me. Not only that, but he’d also seen it before me; Justin took him.

It took a lot of badgering to get the address out of Emmett but eventually he caved.  But he must have told Brian because he opened the door to us and although he didn’t look pissed he didn’t exactly look pleased to see us.

Michael and I think that since Emmett’s catering business took off, he’s gotten a little too big for his boots, interfering in matters where he shouldn’t.

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING

LOUNGE

MEL

I’ve had a tough day and all I want is a drink but when I got inside, it’s clear that Lindsay just got up and left to go where she wanted to without cleaning up. I sigh and start to put away stuff yet again.  And yet again, blaming Brian for keeping us here.

“Hey!”  Lindsay comes in smiling.

“Hi, uh more magazines?” I nod at the pile in her hand. “Why are we redecorating again and what rooms?”

“Gus’s room.” She replies and I know that tone. She’s placating.

“Why? We’ve only just done it. Okay, it was a year ago but it’s fine as it is and we can’t really afford it.”

“Oh, we won’t be paying for it…now, please listen before you blow up. This is for Gus’s room in Britin.” She smiles at me and I frown. “We went to see it on Monday. Oh Mel, it is gorgeous! The grounds, the stable and the pool, though I think we should get that covered for when Gus is there and…”

“Whoa!  Who is we? And when is Gus going there?”

“Michael and I went to see Britin.  And Gus will be staying with his dad sometimes, won’t he?”

I feel the headache start to pound harder and rub my temples. “He didn’t stay with him in the loft. Why should he stay with him in their new house?”

“The loft is too small.  And besides would you have wanted Gus to stay there?”

“No I wouldn’t. But then again, they’ve only just finished getting it extended.”

“Extended? What do you mean extended?” She demands, getting that pinched look…ah she didn’t know about it.

“According to Ted, Brian took the loft directly below them and has joined the two. The work was finished about a month ago and Brian’s decorating it…”

“I see.” She pouts. “Well anyway, the room at Britin for Gus is going to be…”

“Have you asked if Gus can have a room?”

“I don’t need to ask Brian if Gus can have a room in his father’s house!” She snaps.

“You’re right, you don’t. But you do have to ask Justin as it’s his house, remember? Brian bought it for him, his prince.  Not the wannabe princess.”

CHAPTER 3: HELLO RUTH AND HER HOME TRUTH

THE LOFT – FRIDAY MORNING

BRIAN

He’s mad and he has every right to be. I told him about Michael and Lindsay being at Britin on Monday. I wanted to tell him face to face with no distractions.

“But why were they there?” He gripes, slamming the fridge door shut.

“I don’t know. Emmy called me as soon as he told them and told me to be prepared.”

He drops his head but doesn’t say anything else.  “Justin. I didn’t invite them. I wouldn’t have done that.” He turns to look at me and gives me a small smile. “It is your house and the only person that gets to invite people is you.”

“I know I’m being prissy about this but…oh for fuck sake!” He explodes before crossing his arms then pours out his coffee, without drinking it.

“Do I get to know what that’s about?”  I ask warily.

“When they got in, did they say anything?”

“To be honest, I wasn’t paying attention.  But…oh no!  She did mention something about wanting to help with the refurbishment.”

“No fucking way!” He shouts. “Well that explains why she was around the studio. She’s not getting in there Brian, no!”

I hold up my hands. “Justin, your house; your rules. I promise.” He sighs and mutters something.  “Justin?”

“Now that the works here are done can we…can we change the locks and only give a key to my mom?  I know…”

I nod and finish off my coffee.  “And Cynthia.”

“…he’s your best friend but…wait what?”

“Your mom and Cynthia.  I don’t see why anyone else should have keys for here now.  This is our home. Nobody needs to be able to get in whenever they want but us. Now Ruth is going to be here in a minute and I want you to meet her so you at least know who to look for.”

I put my cup in the dishwasher and turn to face him and he is looking a bit stunned.  “Justin?  Justin!”  He jolts out of his stupor.  “Come and meet Ruth.”

“Brian wait.  Did you just agree to just have my mom have the keys?”

“No.  I want Cynthia to have keys too.”  I start to shepherd him out.  “That okay?”  He nods before kissing me gently.

“Thank you. Now all we have to do is tell them.”  Justin sighs.

“Why?”  I start the elevator.

“Because he’s going to hammer on the door when he tries to get in and fails, then he will sit on the doorstep and wait us out.  And as for Lindsay…”

“Shit!  Don’t move from there!”  I shout and he looks surprised but I’m back in seconds.  “Sorry, I forgot to give this to you.”  I hand him a key. “This is the key to the street door and the code is 0017. I asked the super if we could get the locks changed, now that the works are finally finished.  He was very happy to do that.”  I chuckle.

“So they can’t even get in the building?” He looks at the key as if it’s the most precious thing in the world.  And then it hits me...to him, it is.

“Nope.  And you’re right they need to be told.  But I think you should tell them on Sunday when we’re at dinner at Debs.”

“Me?  Why me?”  He asks, taking my hand and then looks up at me.  “Okay, I’ll tell them.”

As I open the door for him, I wait for his reaction.  “Oh wow Brian look at that!  It’s gorgeous!  Quick take my picture before the owner comes!”

“Or you could meet Ruth and then get in.”  I smile at him as his jaw drops.

“This! This is the car service?!”  He gasps.

“Mr Taylor? Hi my name is Ruth.  Nice to meet you.”  Justin is too mesmerised by the car to acknowledge her. “Mr Taylor?”

He finally comes out of his daze to turn round to face her.  “I’m so sorry!  Justin is fine, so nice to meet you.  This is…”

“Brian!”  Michael’s voice cuts across the introduction as he runs up.  “Hey Brian!”

“Mikey…”

“Brian, what are you doing for lunch today?” He gives me a hug and then turns to Justin. “Hey. So Brian, lunch? I need to talk to you about something.”

“I’m going to be very busy today, Michael. I have morning meetings, a client lunch and then meetings in the afternoon. Now I have to go, we’re already running late.  Ruth if…”

“Can’t Ted do that?  I really need to talk to you.” He tries again.

“No Ted can’t do that. They want to meet me. Now we have to go.”

“Oh, can’t we talk in the car? Then she can drop me back at the comic book store and…”

“Michael!” Justin sighs crossly. “You are delaying us. We have meetings to go to.”

“What meetings?” Michael demands. “This is really important, Brian.”

“This meeting, which we are already late for, is more important.  I will speak to you tonight. I should be done around about seven, that’s the best I can do.”

“Okay, I’ll be back here for seven then. What should I bring for dinner for two?  Thai?”

“I’ll meet you at Woody’s. Trust me, I will need a drink after today!”

“Mr Kinney, in order to make your appointment, we need to go now.”  Ruth interjects.

“Well I suppose I could make my own way back to the store…”  Michael begins again. “I walked here and…”

“TAXI!”  Ruth suddenly shouts out and a cab pulls up.  “Hey sweets, this guy…”  She points to Michael.  “Needs to go…well, he can tell you that.”

Michael looks stupefied. “Hey buddy, you getting in or not!”  The cabbie calls out.

“Fine!” Michael stomps over and gets in. “Take me to Red Cape.  Brian see…”  Ruth slams the door hard in his face.

She makes her way back to the car.  “Now, where were we?”  She smiles at Justin.

“Justin Taylor, but call me Justin.  This is so beautiful.  Can I sit up front with you?  Brian, you don’t mind?”

“No, carry on. You can give Ruth your details and those for your mom.”

“Okay.”  He starts to get in but then stops and gives me another sweet kiss.  “Thank you again.”

“You’re welcome.”  I reply and get in. The journey to our meeting with the lawyers is filled with Justin trying to persuade Ruth to let him drive the car just around the car park.  His big beautiful blue eyes are having no effect on her.

“I will prevail.”  He tells her determinedly. “After all, I wore him down.”

“You didn’t wear me down.”  I grouse.  “Why do I have to keep telling you that I don’t do what I don’t want to do?” I cover the hurt in my voice with a smile…but it really hurts.

WOODY’S – EARLY EVENING

BEN

I’m at the bar getting us a drink when I hear Michael call out to Brian.  As I make my way back to the table, I catch the end of their conversation.

“How was your day?  Busy as you said?”

“Yeah.  But we signed two more contracts so that’s good.”

“Hey Brian, how are you?”  I clap him on the shoulder and he looks perplexed.

“Ben?  I’m fine. You’re here...”

“Where else would I be?  Would you like a drink?  Brian?  A drink?”

“Uh yeah.  It’s just that when Michael said he wanted to meet up and talk about something important, just the two of us…”

“Yeah, that was when we were going to the loft.  But we’re here now so…”

“So I could’ve asked Justin to meet us here too.”  Brian gripes. “I’ll get the drink. Thanks Ben. Won’t be long.”

“What are you doing?”  I turn to Michael once Brian is out of earshot.

“What?”  He looks in the direction that Brian has just gone.

“Michael!”  I snap sharply and he turns to me.  “What. Are. You. Doing?”

“Nothing.  I’m meeting my best friend for a drink.”

“Of course you are.  Of course you are.”  I mutter as Brian heads back to the table.

CAR BACK TO THE LOFT

RUTH

Justin had me pick him up from Britin and traffic is being a bitch.

“Asshole!”  I look in the mirror and he looks resigned but there's also a pissed off expression on his face.

I don’t say anything for a while.  “So how did you wear him down?”

“Huh?”

“You said that this morning.  How did you wear him down?”

Justin moves to the seat directly behind me and gives me his version of events, which matches Brian’s but he doesn’t mention the wedding.

“Can I ask your opinion on something?”

I nod.

“I have a friend who is having a relationship dilemma.”

No shit Sherlock!

He goes on to tell me about the stag do and the lead up to cancelling of his friend’s wedding.

“So what do you think?”

“Is your friend still with her boyfriend?”

“I’m not sure.”  He replies.

“If I was the fiancé, I would ditch her and move on.”

I catch the astonished look on his face.  “Why?”

“He had an opportunity to have a last hurrah fuck and she would be fine. But instead, he chose to decline and spend his last night of free…actually what did you say she said he said?”

“He said he respectfully declines his last meal and chooses to go home.”

“So he picked her over a with-permission-last-fuck? Then goes home with her and when he says he just wants to cuddle and be with her, she throws his reputation in his face? That must have hurt so much to hear. To him, she’s bought the myth, not the man he’s trying to be for her.  He was telling her that she was it for him.”

I thank the traffic Gods for my perfect timing as I pull up by the loft and get out to open the door.

“Have a good rest of evening Justin.”

“Thanks.”  He mutters and heads inside.

SATURDAY MORNING

THE LOFT

BRIAN

Justin had a fitful night’s sleep but I don’t know why.  He’s also been quiet this morning.

“Brian, I’m sorry.”

“Why? What have you bought?”

“Nothing.”  He sniffs and I tilt up his chin.  “I’m so sorry for the way I reacted to the stag do. I should’ve realised what you were trying to say. I’m…”

“Yeah, you should have.” I tell him, finally letting him see how much that hurt. “But where are you now?”

“Here?”  He looks confused and then gives me a small smile.  “As pissed off and hurt as you are, you still want me?”

“Not quite…I want you back in bed.”  I hoist him over my shoulder and carry him giggling back to the bedroom.

DEBS’ HOUSE – EARLY SUNDAY EVENING

DEBS

Everyone is here. But there is something different between Brian and Justin.

“Okay people, let’s eat!”  I order.

An hour later, we’re sitting in the lounge when Lindsay clears her throat. “So Brian, I understand that you have had the loft redecorated and extended.”

“Extended?” Michael looks confused. “What do you mean? It didn’t look any different when we came around.

“When did you come around?”  Brian demands.

“And why is that Michael’s and your concern, Lindsay?”  Carl asks.

“Why is it…? Well obviously we would need to see it to make sure it’s safe for Gus.”  Lindsay replies as if placating a small fucking child.

“Michael, when did you come around?” Brian asks again.

“Last Saturday but you were otherwise occupied.” Ben smirks.

“Oh, what a surprise!”  Mel snarks.  “You were entertaining!  How many this time?”

“Justin and only Justin. Right Michael?” Ben glares at him.

Okay what is going on there?!

“I don’t know. There could’ve been other…”

“It was just Justin. Trust me!”  Ben retorts.

“Can we focus on the point of my question? It has been extended, correct?  So when will the redecorating be entirely finished?” Lindsay asks, quelling any further thoughts or comments on Saturday’s sexscapade.

“When it is.” Justin sounds pissed. “And when it is, we will let you know.”

“I can supervise that for you. That way you can concentrate on working on your art.”  She smiles again. “Or I can oversee the rooms in Britin if the ones in the loft are just about done. And speaking of that…”

“No and no.” Justin interrupts.

“No what?”  She frowns.

“No you can’t supervise and no you can’t help with Britin. Brian and I want to decorate our homes by ourselves.”

Michael snorts. “What’s the problem, Michael? They are their homes and if they want our help, they can ask for it.”  Ben rebukes him.

I’m about to say something but then I catch Carl’s warning glance.

“All I’m saying is that with you both being so busy, I can easily let myself in and…”

“No you can’t.” Justin takes a breath. “We’ve had the locks changed and the only people who get keys are my mother and Cynthia.”

“What?!” Lindsay and Michael say at the same time.

“We don’t have keys for your homes. Why should you have keys for ours?”  Justin asks and I spot the look of pride on Brian’s face.

“I’ve always had a key to Brian’s place.” Michael asserts.

“But it’s not just Brian’s anymore, is it?”  Carl turns to him.  “It’s their place. And just because it was, doesn’t mean it always should be.”

“Thanks Carl.” Brian smiles at him before turning back to Michael and Lindsay. “You don’t need to be in there without one of us at home. So no more keys for either of you two.”

For the first time this evening, Mel looks at Brian and doesn’t scowl.

CARL

Looks like life is changing for at least four people tonight and there’s happiness about it…for some more than others.

CHAPTER 4: KNOWING, TELLING AND SHOWING

CARL

I sit back and watch Debs. I know how much she wants to leap in and start on Ben but she stops herself. It took a lot, but she did stop.

“Oh now speaking of beautiful places, like Britin…”  Ems starts looking at Brian. “What was that piece of gorgeousness I saw you sliding into this week?”

The room goes silent. I see the flash of a smirk go across Michael’s face and Mel rolls her eyes.

“What are you talking about Ems?” Debs demands, glaring at Brian. 

“Yes, it was blue, or silver, but my God it was gorgeous. Can I ride in it please?!”

“Oh the car. It’s a Daimler V8-250. I think that’s what you said it was; I was too busy trying to persuade Ruth to let me take it round the car park.” Justin glares in the face of Brian’s smirk.

“She said no, repeatedly, in case you hadn’t picked up on that.”  Brian snickers.

“Your supertwink powers fading Baby?”  Ems teases.

“My powers are absolutely fine. They work on the most important person.” He waggles his eyebrows at Brian.

“Shut up twat.” 

“Must you be like that at the table?” Lindsay grouses. Mel looks at her in surprise but doesn’t say anything.

“So about the car?” Ems presses. “I’d feel like Lana Turner at her best premiere being driven around in that.”

“Sure you can Ems.” Justin looks at Brian and he nods. “I’ll give her your details. We have a designated driver, and I’m sure she can arrange some…”

“That person is your driver?” Lindsay gasps. “How is she still employed after the way she spoke to me? I mean, to us? I have a good mind to put in a complaint.” She sniffs.

“Okay, no car service for you…anyone else want to decline?” Justin looks around the table.

“I didn’t say I didn’t want to use the service. I just think she should apologise for the way she behaved.” Lindsay backtracks. “Maybe we could have a different driver?”

“May…”  Justin begins but stops when Brian shakes his head. “Why not?”

“The way AngelCars works for premium accounts is that you have one driver per account so it’s Ruth in the first instance. And I don’t think she should apologise to you Lindsay.  Or, before you say anything, you either Michael.”  Brian leans back in his chair.

“What’s this about?” Debs demands.

Here she goes again!

“When we were at Britin, she almost left them there because she only had one passenger to pick up and I had to give authority for them to get in…”  He’s interrupted by a snicker from Ted. “And then Lindsay waited for her to get out and open the door.” More snickering.  “Which she didn’t do.”  Ted is starting to giggle. “And then…”  Brian clears his throat.  “Wh-when we got to Liberty Avenue…”  Ted is shaking.

“Teddy leave the table! We want to hear this!” Ems orders and Ted goes outside. “Now continue…”

“So after we arrived, I told them to get out the car because again Ruth wasn’t opening the door for them. Michael slammed the door really hard and Ruth got out and told him off. That’s after telling him to stop playing with the trim of the car unless he can afford the respray.”

“Oh my God!  I have to meet this woman!”  Ems squeals. 

“It gets better…” Justin interrupts and Brian nods for him to continue. “When we were leaving the loft on Friday morning, it was the first time I had seen the car. Then Michael came up and…”

“What were you doing at the loft? I dropped you off at the diner.” Ben asks. He does not look happy.

“Yes, you did but then I remembered I needed to talk to Brian so I walked to the loft.” He looks affronted that Ben should even question that.

“I see.”  Ben’s tone is clipped and again I shake my head at Debs, who glares at me but says nothing.

“Anyway, we were trying to leave for the appointment but Michael wanted a lift back.  Instead, Ruth hailed a cab for him. And she paid him back for the previous door slam; he had to move his head back pretty quickly.”

“She did what?!”  Blake laughs.  “I’m with you Em, I have to meet this woman!”

“I didn’t find that at all funny!”  Michael snaps.  “She could’ve hurt me and…”

“Well I did!” Ted laughs but then stops abruptly. “But about you slamming the door... if you had messed up the lock or chipped the paint, what would you have done?”

“Nothing. She said that Mr Kinney wouldn’t like the bill…”  He replies sarcastically.

“Brian wouldn’t have paid for it. I would make sure of that.” Justin retorts before looking at his watch. “I’ve got an early start tomorrow so we should go.” 

“You have an early start, Brian doesn’t.” Michael sneers before looking at Brian. “The thing I wanted to talk to you about on Friday, can we talk now?” Michael gives him his usual look.

“Sorry Mikey, but I do have an early start and there’s no need for Ruth to come back twice…”

“Ruth is outside?!” Ems is out of his chair and out the door in seconds, followed swiftly by Blake. 

RUTH

This has got to be Emmett! When I got the text from Brian about two hours ago, I wasn’t surprised. He told me that it was key day. But when he said that Justin apologised for the way he reacted to the stag do, I was delighted. 

“You are Ruth, correct? I am Emmett. And this is my business card because I want to be driven by you!” 

I take the card and shake his hand. “Wanna get in?” He clutches at his pearls and starts tugging on the handle. “Excuse me, let’s do this right!” I admonish him with a smile.

“But of course…”  He steps back with a grin and waits for me to open the door and slides in.  “Is this the Daimler?”  He sighs, stroking the seats.

“No Rolls Royce Phantom.” I reply as he starts to stretch out. “Um Emmett…feet please.”

“Oh sorry sweetie!” He immediately takes them down. 

“Shove up Ems, I want in!”  A redhead demands.

“Oh wait Debs! She has to get permission from the lead passenger first. I’m surprised she let you in Emmett!” Lindsay snipes. 

“I have a list of people that are allowed under the Kinnetic account and he’s on it. Received it about 40 minutes ago, so Emmett’s fine.”  I reply coolly and that seems to shut her up.

“So you could drop us off afterwards, then?”  She declares.

“I’m afraid not.”

“Why not?” A brown haired woman bridles and glares at me. 

“And you are?” I put out my hand.

“Mel, Lindsay’s wife. Why can’t you…”  She looks in the car and turns around.  “I see. It is a gorgeous car though.”

“Why can’t she takes us Mel?” Lindsay demands.

“Car seats for the kids.”  Ben replies, peering in and whistling. “May I get in? I’m Ben by the way. Who else don’t you know?”

Soon I’m introduced to my protagonists. I told Brian not to tell me anything about them. I want to form my own opinion. So far only Emmett, Carl, Ben, Ted and Blake aren’t on my shit list.

“Mr Kinney, Mr Taylor, are you ready to go?” I ask fed up with the glowering from the two morons I’m getting. 

“Yeah. Come on guys, we’ve got to get home.” Justin orders and Ems reluctantly gets out.

“Debs?” Justin prompts but she doesn’t move.

“Michael wants to talk to you Brian...” Debs begins. “Can’t you speak on the way back to the loft and get Ruth to drop him off on the way back to wherever she’s going?”

“He made it clear earlier that he wants to speak to Brian alone, Debs. What do you suggest Justin does?” Carl leans in the car to ask her.

“He could…”  Debs begins.

“Michael, we can meet for lunch tomorrow. In the diner or at your store, okay? But we need to go home now.” Brian interrupts.

“Debs, come on. You’re not only delaying them. You’re delaying Ruth.”  Carl taps her arm.

She reluctantly slides out of the car and sighs.  “It was nice to meet you Ruth.” 

I smile and nod but think to myself…shame I can’t say the same!

BEN AND MICHAEL’S HOUSE – AN HOUR LATER

LOUNGE

MICHAEL

“Can you believe that?!”  I look at Ben, who has been putting away the leftovers.

“What? The car and letting us use the service. That’s very generous of them.” He replies, sitting down. 

“Not that! The keys! I will be talking to Brian about that tomorrow, too.”

“What is it that you can talk to Brian about and not me?”  He asks.

I pause and smile. “I’m arranging a surprise for you and if I talk to you about it then it won’t be a surprise.” 

“I see. Well I look forward to it. But I don’t think that Brian will be backing down on the keys.”

“We’ll see. We’ll see.” I tell him with a smirk. 

“Yes we will.” He replies. “Well I’m going to get ready for bed, you coming up too?”

“In a bit. I want to make a call first.” 

“Okay.” He heads upstairs and I grab my phone.

“Lindsay, it’s me. I’m going to meet Brian at the store for lunch, can you bring JR? Great!  See you tomorrow!” 

BEN

I shake my head as I make way to the bathroom. I had a feeling that Michael had accepted the keys too easily. He and Lindsay need to stop pushing…especially now that Justin seems to be pushing back and with Brian’s support.

DEBS AND CARL’S HOUSE – SAME TIME

BEDROOM

DEBS

“What do you mean I can’t just help myself?!”  I demand.

“I was so proud of you when you didn’t say anything to Ben, thinking that you were leaving it alone but no you were just biding your time, weren’t you?”

“Biding my…what are you talking about?”

“You waited until you had Brian and Justin alone in the car to get Brian to speak to Michael.” 

“I’m not doing anything of the sort!” I bristle.

“Yes you are! Did you see Mel’s face when she heard about the keys to the loft and Britin?”

“Yeah, for once she wasn’t scowling like she’s PMSing!” 

“No it’s because she was relieved. No more Lindsay going to the loft at the drop of a hat!”  He pauses. “And why were you pissed at Ben?”

“I didn’t like the way he was talking to Michael like…”

“He was pissed off because Michael had kept things from him. Do you know what happened on Friday night?”

“No.” I answer warily.

“Michael arranged to meet with Brian to speak with him but Ben was there.” 

“So…”

“Michael kept Justin away from the drinks by giving Brian the impression that it was going to be the two of them.”

“How do you know that?” 

“Ben told me. If you spoke to Ben a lot more than you do, you’d know more about how Michael behaves when you’re not around.” He holds up his hand when I go to speak.  “And I’m with Brian... I don’t see why he needs a key to their homes or here.”

“This is his house!”  I exclaim.

“No, this is our house. When was the last time he used it? He has a house with Ben, you know his husband. Ben is the man who should fight for Michael, not you. And that’s what Ben does, when Michael is the wronged party.”

“But…”

“Think about the keys to here, he’s not used them in months. And for God sake, stop trying to put Michael first in Brian and Justin’s relationship!”

RED CAPE COMICS – MONDAY LUNCHTIME

BRIAN

I sigh as I look at Michael and Lindsay. He’s bouncing JR in his arms and she’s coolly regarding me.

“What’s this about?” I ask, having a feeling I know exactly what it’s about.

“About yesterday...  I thought it was very sweet of you to not embarrass Justin by…”

“I back Justin 100%. No keys. Is that all you wanted to talk to me about? If so, I’m done talking about it.”

“But Brian, Justin needs to concentrate on his art for future shows…”

“Lindsay.” I rake my hands through my hair. “Let him manage his career his way.”

“I’m just saying that it would…”

“I’m going. See you guys later.” 

“But Brian, I didn’t get to talk to you about what I wanted to talk to you about!” Michael calls out.  “And you’ve not spoken to your goddaughter yet.”

“Goddaughter?” I stare at him. “She’s my goddaughter?” 

“Of course she is!” He smiles at me. “Who else would I pick but my best friend?”

“Wow, how does Mel feel about this?” I glance at Lindsay, who has the same smile on her face.

“Don’t worry about Mel, she’s fine.” Lindsay grins.

I see a familiar flash of blonde hair run pass the door and open it.  “Hey twat, where you going?!”

“Hey!” He stops and comes back but doesn’t come in. “Home. I forgot the plans. It was quicker for me to run than for Ruth to drive back up.” 

“Want me to help you find them?” I pull him into my arms and grind my hips.

“Tempting but alas no. Hold that thought for tonight though.” He grins up at me, having given my cock a quick squeeze.

“Bad boy.” I growl in his ear and he snickers. 

“I’m good at being bad. Now come on, I’ve got to go!”

“Oh alright.” I swat his butt and after a quick kiss, he’s off and running again. “Hey, by the way, I’m a godfather to JR. Think we should celebrate that!”

“You’re what?!” He runs back again. “When did that happen?”

“Just now.” I grin and then frown. “What?”

“Nothing, I’m most likely being sceptical and unfair but…” 

“Justin…”

“I know. I’m sorry but she’s almost a year old now and…it just seems a little odd, that’s all.”

“I’ll see you tonight.” I sigh and he nods, beginning to run back off again.

I head back inside and Michael and Lindsay are plating up the food. I look at my watch.

“Guys, I have to get back…”

“Before you go, perhaps we can have a christening party for your goddaughter?” Lindsay smiles again. “Maybe at the loft now it’s finished or…”

“At the homes of her parents.” I interject. “Great idea! Give Emmy a call. I’m sure he’d love to organise it. See ya.”

CAR BACK TO THE LOFT – EARLY EVENING

RUTH

“Want to tell me what’s wrong?” I lower the partition. Brian has been brooding since I picked him up from his last meeting.

“I’m a godfather.” 

“Great. That’s great, right?”  I ask, sighing as I hit traffic.

“To JR. That’s Michael and Mel’s daughter.” 

“And…I’m not a dentist; stop making me pull teeth!”  I grouse and at least he laughs a bit.

“She’s almost a year old now and suddenly, I’m a godfather, right after…”

“You took his keys away. How does Mel feel about that?”

“Lindsay says she’s fine with it.”

“One way to find out.  Call her and thank her.”

He seems to hesitate before pulling out his phone. “Put it on speaker.” I order.

“What do you want? I’ve had a long day and am not in the mood for your witticisms.”

Jesus what a bitch!

“I was just calling to say thank you that’s all and to say that I’ll pay for it but it can’t be at the loft.”

“What are you talking about, asshole?!” 

Holy crap!

“The christening party for JR. I’m sure Emmy would love to host it.”

“Why would you be interested in a christening party for JR?”

“Well since Michael and Lindsay told me today that I’m her godfather, I should show some interest, shouldn’t I?”

Silence.

“Mel, are you there?”

“Yes, yes, I’m here. Yeah, I’ll speak to them about that. I’ve got to go. I need to tend to Gus.”

She hangs up without saying goodbye.

“Well now, didn’t that just help clarify matters?”  He grumbles.

“What did Justin say when you told him?”

“Exactly what you’re thinking. It’s a way in, isn’t it? Trying to tie me to her.”

“Hey, I’m only the slightly biased devil’s advocate.  And you sir are home.”

“Let’s hope he is.”  He mutters.

THE LOFT

JUSTIN

“Don’t. Don’t say you’re sorry.”  Brian tells me as soon as he’s in the door.

“But…”

“I spoke to Mel and I got the feeling that this was the first time she’d heard of it.”

“Oh.” I reply, wondering what to do now. 

“But that’s their problem, not ours.”  He pulls me to my feet.  “So twat, what’s for dinner?”

I grin up at him. “Well for me, I was thinking this?” I palm his cock again and he groans and squeezes my ass.

BLOOM GALLERIES – WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON

LINDSAY

I’m not altogether sure what’s wrong with Mel but she’s not been speaking to me properly for a couple of days now. I’m meeting Michael for lunch in a few minutes because I have a plan. 

“Hey Lindz!”  He calls out as he comes through the door.

“Hey.  Come on through.”  I take him to the meeting room, where I have ordered lunch for us.

“Well, what’s got you so excited?”  He asks round a mouthful of sandwich.

“This!” I show him the article. He looks at it and then looks at me blankly.  “So what is it?”  He asks.

“It’s for a show in New York. I spoke to Robert Crasswell, the guy who wrote the first article about Justin’s work, and he recommended Justin enters his pieces.”

“He doesn’t want to go. He’s made that more than clear. He’s being so selfish, letting Brian support him.”

“My thoughts exactly. Which is why I have submitted a couple of pieces that Sidney had on his behalf and they have been accepted!” 

“So what does that mean?”

“It means that he will be going to New York or it looks like a huge snub to the art world over there and they won’t let him back in.  Ever.”

Michael smiles. “So now what?”

“Well, just think how upset Brian will be when he finds out that Justin went behind his back and submitted works without telling him.  He’ll feel like Justin was lying to him... again.”

“Absolutely!”  Michael laughs.  “So how do we do this?”

“Leave this with me; I’ve got the ball rolling. Justin needs to go to New York. Meanwhile, we can take care of everything here until, and if, he comes back.”

“Here’s hoping for if.”   Michael toasts.

OUTSIDE THE MEETING ROOM

RUTH

Ooh you bitch and weasel!  We’ll see about that.

She had called me to take her to something or other and now she’s running late. So I headed to the meeting room as instructed by the receptionist but they didn’t shut the door properly. I make my way back to reception and claim I can’t find her. The receptionist was so sweet and located her. 

I head out and let in her majesty and her minion. Immediately, she orders me to put up the partition. She said nothing about not turning on the intercom.

As I listen to them plot and plan, I think to myself, what the hell are his enemies like?!

CHAPTER 5 - KNOW I GOT YOUR BACK

ANGELCARS - FRIDAY MORNING

OFFICE

RUTH

I have been working out a sub-clause in the Kinnetic contract to include Emmy’s catering business. He sent me a picture of his current van, I just sent him the picture of the Mercedes van and he responded by text with Lana Loves!  

I’m still trying to work how to handle knowing what I know about the mendacious morons but I’m going to take a chance and not tell him. I want to wait to see how he reacts and see if he blows up at Justin like they say he will.  But I do have a safety net in place.  

I look at the caller ID on the phone and it’s one of the morons. “AngelCars, good morning.”

After the conversation, I just stare at the phone. I don’t know why I’m surprised he is already summoning me to do his stupid bidding like this.  I think back to the way Debs behaved in the car and wonder what the hell she sees when she looks at her precious boy and how the fuck Ben puts up with him and her.  

Sighing, I pick up the mouthguard I actually bought and head out to the car.  It is going to take over an hour to get there pick him up...but as my mom always says it’s easy to spend other people’s money.

MICHAEL & BEN’S HOUSE

BEN

I stare at Michael and wait for his explanation. He chews for a very long time. I just fold my arms and wait.

“So I offer you a lift, you decline and then call Ruth to come and do the very thing you turned me down for?  Explain.”

“I changed my mind and by the time I had done so, you had gone.”  

“So instead of calling me to say come back, you call Ruth?  That makes no sense Michael!”

“She’s coming now so what’s the problem?” He adopts his usual defensive stance of huffing and folded arms. “She can give you a lift too instead of you driving.”

“And tonight what do you suggest?” I grab the books I had forgotten and head back to the car.  “I’ll drive myself to and from work.”

“Thought you wanted to help the environment? Isn’t taking another car detrimental to that?”  His sneer is unmistakable.  

“Yes Michael, that’s exactly what’s in detriment right now!”  I snap and head out.  

MICHAEL

AngelCars have texted to say that the car is outside. I grab my things and head out, smiling and wondering what car it is that is causing envy amongst our neighbours today. As I close the door and turn around not only is there no fancy car in the drive but there is also no Ruth.  I immediately go back inside to call them, I still don’t see why I can’t have her cell number...

“AngelCars good morning.”  A man’s voice answers.

‘I need to speak to Ruth. This is Michael Novotny!”

“I’m sorry she’s been called out to pick up a client.  Can I help at all?”

“Yes, I’m the client she’s supposed to be picking up. You’ve sent the wrong car to me.  I come under the account of Kinnetic.”

“Can I take your name again, please?”  

“Michael Novotny.” I growl out.  

“Ah I see. We have sent the right car to you, Mr Novotny. Mr Taylor called and as joint account holder, he takes precedence and he wanted her. Do you wish to cancel the car and wait for Ruth?”

“I’ll take the car.” I snap and hang up abruptly.  What’s this joint account holder bullshit?  

When I get outside, I stalk to the car and wait for him to open the door. I have to knock on the window to get his attention.

“Mr Novotny?”  

“Who else would it be?” I declare.

“Well if you can get in, sir, we can be on our way.”  He puts his seatbelt back on and waits for me to get in. “Estimated time of arrival is 1045 with traffic.” 

“Drive on.”  I order and make myself comfortable.

When we get to the store, he finally does part of his job and opens the door for me, but then he drops a cloth in my lap.

“You need to wipe the seat sir.”  He states.  “That’s why we tell people not to put their feet on them.”  I glare at him but he merely stares back.  “It will be harder to get off once it’s dried on, sir.”

I start to wipe the seat, fifteen minutes later it is finally done to his satisfaction.

“Thank you sir, most co-operative of you.  Would you like me to book a return journey?”

“No.”  I snap and stride straight into some dog shit outside the front of my store.  I hear his laughter as he gets into the car and drives away.

Fucking bastard!

BLOOM GALLERY - EARLY AFTERNOON

SIDNEY

I stare at the email in disbelief and then call the gallery in New York. After a thirty minute conversation with them, I have to do some major damage control.  I grab the paperwork and head to my attorney’s office.

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE - FRIDAY EVENING

LINDSAY 

Everything is set. We’re having everyone around for take-out and I will congratulate Justin on his show then let the cards fall where Michael and I want them to! I can’t help the little chuckle which escapes as I anticipate the surprised look to be on his face at my announcement. He has the opportunity of a lifetime and he’s squandering it!  I see it as a service to the art world to get him where he should be. In New York and away from Brian.

And when Brian gets upset, Michael will be the consoling voice in his ear.

Mel still isn’t speaking to me properly and any attempts to find out why is met with glares and snippiness. To be honest, I’m getting fed up with it. The doorbell rings and I wait for her to answer it but of course she doesn’t. She calls down that she’s changing...and I hope that includes her pissy mood!

The first to arrive, as usual is Ems, he’s followed by Michael and Ben and now we’re just waiting for Brian and Justin.

“No prizes for guessing why they are late!”  Debs snarks, shaking her head.  

Just then the doorbell rings and finally they are here. Gus calls down to his daddy and Brian goes to see him. Michael tries to follow presumably to see JR but Mel stops him saying she’s just gone to sleep.  

Finally, at Carl’s insistence, Brian comes down so we can eat.  

Dinner’s it’s usual robust affair and soon we are just sitting around talking.

“I hear congratulations are in order Justin. You must thrilled that you can finally tell us!”

The look on Brian’s face is just what we hoped for. “Lindsay, what are you talking about?”  Justin asks.

“The Rathman Show in New York. I had a feeling you were protesting too much. So tell me which pieces you submitted and how you kept that secret for so long?”

“Yes Justin, why don’t you tell us about that?”  Brian glares at him.

“I have no idea what she’s talking about. I never entered the Rathman Show. I thought about it and changed my mind.”

I frown and tilt my head. “Strange the winners list was announced and you are definitely on there.”

Justin looks at Brian, who has started to close off. Bingo. “I need a some air!”  

As he gets up, Michael goes to follow with a glare at Justin, who looks like a deer in headlights.  “Keeping secrets again Justin?!”

“Michael, can you sit down please?”  Ben asks, much to everyone’s surprise. 

“Why?  I’ve got to speak to Brian. He’s obviously upset about this!”

“And you know what he’s like when he’s upset.  Let him calm down or he will lash out at you. You're not the person he should be angry with, right?”

“Baby, are you sure in the hubbub of the wedding, you didn’t just forget?” Ems asks and I roll my eyes.  

“I filled in the form but I never submitted it. In fact, I don’t even think I signed it.” He gets up and goes outside.

Too late Justin! The damage is done and Ben can stall Michael as much as he likes. He’ll get Brian to send Justin on his way.

BRIAN

I call Ruth; I just want to get out of here.  I hear the back door open.  “I didn’t submit it Brian.”  I blow out a smoke ring and he comes to stand next to me. “I didn’t.” He repeats, taking the cigarette out of my fingers and grinds it into the floor. “No more... you promised, no more.”

“So did you.” I snap but then I sigh and look at him, really look at him. “How did they get them then?”  

“I don’t know. I’ll have to check my pieces because I have all of them bar the ones in Bloom and I would need to...”

“Guys! You need to get in here!!”  Emmy shouts.

We rush back in and Lindsay is staring at a piece of paper. A very angry man is also in front of her.

“What’s Sidney doing here?”  Justin looks at Mel but she just shrugs.

“What’s happening?” I look around as everyone seems to be in shock still.

“I think Lindsay has just been fired.” Carl replies. “For reputational damage and misrepresentation? I think that’s what he just said.”

“Sidney, you can’t be serious! I did nothing wrong!” Lindsay is looking at Mel for support but she doesn’t seem to care.

“This is an email from you to them withdrawing Miles Stanhope in favour of a more prestigious artist.  Do you realise how insulting that sounded?!”

“I will admit that the wording could’ve been a bit more…”

“Professional. Miles was threatening to walk away but I’ve managed to placate him. And no, sir, I have not fired her, but I have suspended her for a month and demoted her to gallery assistant. I don't know who this prestigious artist you deemed so worthy of replacing him with is but I hope they appreciate how much it has cost you!”  

“Demoted?! Sidney please!”

“No Lindsay, this action could’ve have seen you fired. Be grateful for small mercies!  As I said Mel, apologies for interrupting your evening but this had to be done immediately.  Lindsay, I will see you in a month.  Good evening all.”

When he closes the door behind him, there is nothing but the sound of Lindsay’s weeping.  

“Well it just seems to be a bad news day for you, doesn’t it Lindsay?”  Mel tells her and she looks confused. “And for you also, Michael?  Can you two explain to me why you felt it was okay to have JR christened and to tell Brian he’s her godfather without consulting me?!  As her mother and primary caregiver, these decisions are to be made by me first and foremost.  As I’ve said before, she is going to be brought up in the Jewish faith. So apologies Brian, your godfather status will be a token one.”

“Michael, what is this about?”  Ben sighs.  

“I have the right…” He begins.

“He’s JR’s father!” Debs declares, causing Carl to roll his eyes.

“But not her primary parent! We agreed that this would be Mel and Lindsay’s role.” Ben reminds her. “You have got to respect boundaries, Michael. You were highly disrespectful to Mel and you should apologise.”

We are all looking dumbstruck at Ben. He’s never ever spoken to Michael like that in front of us.  

“Ben, you don’t get to…”  Debs begins.

“Yes, I do get to call him on his bullshit behaviour. And this was bullshit!  If you don’t want to call him out on it then that’s your prerogative.”

“How dare you speak to my mother like that?!” Michael berates him.

“Like what?” Mel retorts. “I’ve heard you speak to her worse than that. But that’s neither here nor there, I’m waiting for my apology from both of you.”  She glares at Lindsay.

Just then Ruth texts to say she’s 10 minutes away.  I take Justin’s hand and jerk my head to the back door so while it escalates into a full on bitchfest, we head outside.

I put my arms round him and he melts against my chest. “Do you believe me?” He asks, looking up at me.

“Yes, I believe you.”

“Good. That’s all I care about.”

“Guys sorry to interrupt the hug-a-thon but Ted and Blake have gone. They were my ride.”  Emmy steps out.  “Can I share Ruth with you, please?”

“Sure Emmy.  She’s here now.  How bad is it in there?” I ask.

“Defcon 3.” He grimaces. “Debs realised how Ben told her off so started in on him and he’s gone too!”

“Some serious shit has gone down today. Hey hands!” I yelp as the coldness of Justin’s hands hit my back.

“You’re nice and warm and my hands are cold.”

“I noticed!”  I scowl down at him but pull my jacket tighter, keeping them against my body.

“Sweet!”  Emmy coos.

“Want to walk?”  I growl.

“Not sweet, not even remotely!”  He chuckles.

“Come on, let’s get our asses home.”  I order and lead them to the car.

RUTH

I can’t help the smile as Emmy runs to the car. I get out and open the door for him. He gets in but doesn’t bring his feet in.  

“Um Emmy, she can’t shut the door with your feet outside.”  Justin points out.

“I know Baby. Be patient; this has to be done properly.”  He tells him before pulling out a bag from inside his bag. “I took a chance and packed these and I’m so glad I did!  Now will these do Ruth?” We watch incredulously as he pulls out a pair of slippers. “I think they are perfect travelling slippers.”

“Yes, they are indeed!”  I giggle. “Although, you could’ve saved yourself the expense by just taking off your shoes.”  

He curls up along the seat and stares at me as if I have gone mad.  “Shopping, of course, what was I thinking.”

I get back in and start the car. As we drive along, they are chattering away. “Isn’t that Ben?”  I call back.

“Yeah it is. He must be freezing. Pull over and pick him up please.”  Justin asks.

I pull ahead of him and Justin winds down the window to call out to him. He gets in, rubbing his hands.

“Thanks. I was so mad, I just left and no cabs were stopping. Not the smartest of moves!”  He sighs.  

“Emmy, under your seat is used for storage. It has blankets in there or will just pumping up the heating be okay?”  I call out.

“Can you do both please?”  Ben asks and he really does look cold.  

“Sure. Be right back though. There’s a coffee shop over there so what do you want?”  I ask him but he demurs even though he clearly needs to be warmed up quickly. I’m about to get cross when Brian interrupts.

“I’ll get them Ruth. Hot chocolate for you, twat?” Brian asks and he gets a nod. “Emmy?”

“Oh yes with extra cream please.”

“Okay a hot chocolate for me too with sprinkles.”  Ben concedes.

He gets out and I pull up around the corner and we wait for him. He doesn’t take long and I refuse to drive until they have finished drinking. I’m pleased to see that Ben has a bit more colour back. Just as I’m about to pull out a cab pulls ahead of us, so I reverse back.

“I hate to be a bad news bear but isn’t that Michael getting out of the cab and waving at us?”  Emmy sighs. I keep reversing and then pull out into traffic. “Oh you are wicked!”  He cackles.

“Why? What did I do? I was concentrating on the road.” I check the mirror and he’s making his way quickly towards us but then the lights change and he gets stuck on the crossing.  “Oh thank fuck.”  I mutter to myself and catch Brian’s eye but then his phone rings.

“Hey. You’re where? No, I didn’t see you. Why did you get out of the cab though? It seems a little silly.  Well no because we’re almost at the loft and then she’s gotta drop off Emmett and Ben. Yes Ben!  We passed him on the way so she picked him up.” He lets him rant for a few seconds before he cuts him off. “Battery died.” He shrugs at the astounded expression on Justin’s face.

“Thanks Ruth, guys see you for another round of family fun on Sunday.” He quips and after taking Justin’s hand, they’re gone.

Once I drop Ben off, it’s just Emmy and I and he leans over the partition.

“Can I ask an opinion on something?”  He asks.

“Of the slippers? Very nice.”

“No, not that, though they warrant more than very nice. I just want an outsider’s view on something…”

By the time he’s finished telling me what happened this evening, I start to see Mel in a different light, though she’s not off my shitlist.

“Well I know I would’ve been beyond pissed if my partner did that to me. So I can understand her reaction. What I don’t get though is why Lindsay brought that up about the show in the first place. I mean if he kept it quiet, why steal the moment and announce it on his behalf? Seems a bit mean spirited.”

He looks reflective. “True and then there’s Michael’s comment about keeping secrets again to Justin. Okay they don’t get on but that was a real bitchy potshot…”

“You, kind sir, are home.” I can’t help the chuckle as he changes back into his shoes then leans through the partition to kiss my cheek. “Goodnight Emmy.” He scrambles out of the car with a grin. “Oh Emmy! One thing...we’re not painting the Mercedes pink!”

He roars with laughter as he makes his way indoors and as per my instructions, he double flashes his lights when he’s safely in his apartment.

RUTH’S CONDO - AN HOUR LATER

I boot up my laptop and stretch. Tomorrow I have blocked off as I need to go to B&B and put in an appearance. I pour myself a glass of wine and go to check my messages. I smile as I read the reply from Miles Stanhope.  

Dear ArtLover, Two simple words can’t convey my gratitude over your previous email.  But here they are, thank you, thank you so much for the warning.  Regards Miles Stanhope.

“You’re more than welcome.”  I raise my glass.  “Now let the fun really begin!”

THE LOFT

BEDROOM

JUSTIN

“Oh!  Oh!  Mmm!  Ah!  Uh!”  I writhe and arch as he deep throats me. One leg is over his shoulder and two of his fingers are toying with my prostate. We’re also holding hands and I’ve never felt more connected to him as I do right now.  

“Oh God!”  I yelp as he begins to hum.  “Brian!  I...oh fuck...coming!”

As the pleasure wracks through me, he waits for me to quieten. Sliding up my already sensitised body, he plants kisses on his way up to my mouth...little sparks of pleasure jolt through me. When we’re finally face to face, he gives me a shy smile.

“I trust this is an acceptable start to the apology I owe you for having the slightest doubt?”

“Oh yeah. That was only the first letter though. You still have another six letters to go.”

“I’d best get on with it then…”  He growls before kissing me deeply.

CHAPTER 6 - TALKING ABOUT BRIAN…MEL

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE - SATURDAY MORNING

MEL

I grab Gus’s jacket from the hook and start to gather his things for a walk. I need to get out of the house.

“Mel where are you going? We have things to discuss!” Lindsay comes downstairs in full combative mode as if this isn't her fault!

“Amazingly enough, I really don't want to discuss how your stupidity has caused us to rely on Brian more!”

“What do you mean?”

“Oh come on, surely you are joking?! We have only my salary to rely on this month and then less when you go back after your suspension…”

“Speak English, I hate it when you speak attorney!”

“Sidney is not going to pay you while suspended and he won't pay you a manager salary for doing an assistant’s job. English enough for you! I was going to take Gus for a walk but since you're up, you can look after them for the day. Also, send the day care place an email to say he won't be in for a month. Hopefully they will keep his place until you go back to work. I’ll be back when I’m back before you ask. I’m so fucking fucked off!”

I don't wait for a response and slam out of the door. I was going to drive anywhere but decide to walk and an hour later, I find myself at the new food store that has just opened called Delicious Foods.

It looks so good in here, I can imagine Brian having an account here and scowl. It is huge and I find myself looking at the pastries.  

“Mel? It is Mel right?”

I turn in surprise at hearing my name and frown, the woman smiles. “Imagine me standing in front of a Rolls Royce Phantom in my approximation of a chauffeur’s outfit…”

“Oh Ruth!  How are you?!”

“All good, you?”

I look at her trolley with a hint of envy.  “Fine. How about you?”  She doesn't respond but just has a ghost of a smirk playing round her lips.  “Oh who am I kidding, I’m fucked off and…”

“No Lindsay?”

Her interruption throws me and I shake my head.  “Come on then.”  And before I can stop to think, I find myself being guided to the checkout desk. Within ten minutes, we are sitting in her rather gorgeous truck and driving to where I have no idea.

“So shall I play 20 questions or you just gonna tell me what’s got you twitching like your g-string is back to front?”

I blink rapidly at that image and burst out laughing. “Where the hell did that come from?!”

“Okay, your way it is. What is that you do?”

“I’m an attorney.  Lindsay works at…”

“Bloom Gallery. I picked her up from there last week with Mitchell…”

“You mean Michael?”  She nods then concentrates on the road. “So you don't tend to remember the names of people whose nose you almost break?”  

She rolls her eyes.  “Is that all?  I was hoping for at least a fractured skull.”

“Well he did say that he had to stop the cabbie from going after you because you slammed the door so hard…”

“Remind me to thank him for his act of heroism.”  She drawls before pulling up outside a beautiful condo.  “House sitting for a friend, you coming?”  

KITCHEN

“Wow what a wonderful place.”  I sigh, looking around.  “What does your friend do?”

“Runs a B&B, Heavenly Retreats…”

“The one that is in New York?”  She nods and continues putting the shopping away.   “I would love to go there!  But with two kids…”

“There’s one in Pittsburgh, near the lakes.  It’s doing great, as you can tell.”

“Really? I didn't know that.”

RUTH

“Mmm.  Want a coffee?”

“Please, black no sugar.” She sits down, sighing.

Oh for the love of God, get on with it!

“What would you do in this situation? My friend is in love with someone but they want someone she absolutely hates to be the father of her child?”

“Why would she pick someone her partner hates? How is that loving them?” She looks at me in surprise. “But at least that didn’t happen and if it did, I would wonder why she insisted on it?  But the one thing I wouldn’t do is blame the guy for being the father.  It’s not his fault.”

“How isn’t it his fault?” She retorts sharply.

“Well unless he fucked her, then she couldn’t get pregnant without either doing it herself or having her partner or someone help her. And if it was the partner, then they can’t bitch and moan because by helping, they said yes.”

She sits back for a few minutes. “But now they are beholden to that guy for everything!”

“How?”

“He is keeping hold of the purse strings so they can’t live the lives they want to. Even though he doesn’t have his fucking rights.”

“Then why don’t they just go do what they want to do and say fuck him?  Go live their lives. Since he has no say.”

“Well the thing is…”  She shifts in her seat.

Finally!

When she finishes, I look at her in annoyance and she sees that. “They can’t go to him for money and shit but then say he can’t have a say. It’s not fair! Ask your friend how they would feel if it was the other way around?”

The look on her face says everything…that hit a nerve, didn’t it?

“I-I will. I need to uh...”  She stands and drains her coffee.

“Let me give you a lift.” I grab my keys and head to the garage.

“Oh my God!” She gasps.

“Milady.” I open the Porsche with a flourish. “Perks of house sitting. Oh and that’s for you.”

I hand her a bag from Delicious Foods and start the car.

INSIDE MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE

LINDSAY

I have been trying Mel and Michael ever since she walked out but nothing. I watch as a Porsche pulls into our driveway. Very nice! My jaw drops when Mel gets out and she waves at the driver and is carrying a bag from the new food emporium.

Before she can use her key, I wrench open the door. “Where the hell have you been and who the fuck was that?!”

“Gus!”  Mel calls and he comes running to her.  “Look what momma got for you.”  She takes him to the stairs and carefully pulls out a creamy mini cupcake that makes my mouth water.

“I asked you a question Mel!”

“You ready?” She pulls out another cupcake and Gus nods. “When I get to three, we eat…one, two, two and a half…three!”

They stuff the cupcakes in their mouths.  Gus is giggling. “Okay. So what do you want to do tomorrow?” She asks as if I haven’t spoken.

“Want to see daddy.”  Gus replies.

“Okay we can do that.”

What?!

CHAPTER 7 - TALKING TO BRIAN…MEL AND ABOUT BRIAN…BEN

THE LOFT – SUNDAY MORNING

BEDROOM

JUSTIN

We are in our favourite sleep position, spooning but this time, he’s inside of me raw.  I couldn’t believe what happened on Friday night…

Start of flashback

BEDROOM – BRIAN’S APOLOGY

JUSTIN

“Mmmmm.”  I purr as he sucks on one ball and then the other.

“Justin?” He looks up at me, between kissing and sucking my thighs. “Did you get your letter?”

“Uh yeah.  Oh!”

“Me too.”  He starts to kiss my stomach.  “What did yours say?  I’m good.”

I look down at him and tug on his hair to get him to look at me.  “I’m good too.  Why?”

He takes a breath and my heart hammers in my chest.  Surely not!!

“Do you want to?”

“You know I do.”

“Not sure how long it is going to last but…let’s do it.”

When he slid into me completely bare, I started to cry and immediately he stops. “What’s wrong?”

“No-nothing.” I hiccup and he kisses away my tears. “Oh God, you have to feel this!”  I moan.

Shit wrong thing to say!

“Justin.”  He breathes.  “Oh Justin, you feel so good!”

He starts to thrust and I lose the ability to speak until I scream the place down and the normally quiet Brian is roaring like a bull.

“Holy fucking God!”  He shouts and we collapse in a heap.

When we regain the ability to speak, he turns to me.  “That was a little hard and fast.  You okay?”

“Uh pretty perfect right now.”  I murmur.

“But messy.” He laughs and the kiss is so sweet and tender. “So do you think you could let me feel that now or should we have a shower and nap first?”

HAPPY DANCING!

“Definitely a shower.  And then I jump you.”  I giggle and then burst out laughing as he almost carries me to the bathroom.

End of flashback

“Don’t do that, I’m trying to last here.” He mutters into my neck and I stop clenching.  “Heaven. It’s just heaven.”  He groans and starts to move.

“Yes!”  I cry and he follows within seconds.  “Hey, no biting!”  I laugh.

An hour later, we’ve showered and are having breakfast when the buzzer goes. I really try not to look pissed off because of who I think it’s going to be.

“Yes?”  He answers brusquely.

“Daddy!  Let me in!”  Gus’s excited voice comes over the speaker.

“Gus?”  He looks at me and I run to the window to see who he’s with.

“It’s Mel!”  I whisper.

“I’ll be right down.”  He answers and shoots down the stairs.

What the hell is Mel doing here?  What fuck of a game is she playing now?

I pace a bit waiting for them to come up and as the door opens, a little bullet shoots in and clasps my knees.  “Jussin!”  He yells.  “How are you?”

“I’m fine Gus. How about you?” I pick him up and he clings to my neck. I look across at a stunned Brian.

“Hey Justin.  I brought cupcakes.”  Mel comes in and I look behind her.  “And it’s just us.”

“Uh…”

“Justin, could you show Gus what you’ve done with the place. I need to speak to Brian for a minute.”  Mel asks.

The look of horror of Brian’s face would be funny if it wasn’t Mel he was going to be alone with. They tend to ramp up the animosity to gargantuan levels if left to their own devices.  After a few long seconds, he finally nods.

“Come on Gus, let’s go downstairs.” I put him on the floor and turn back to them. “Shout if you need me, okay?  And by you, I mean Brian.”

“Understood.”  Mel gives me a very small smile.

MEL

I never in a million years thought I would be saying this but here goes...

“I’m sorry.” He looks shocked and steps back. “I mean it. I blamed you for things that, in hindsight, weren’t your fault and you, if you’re honest, took advantage of that…”  He nods.  “…I should’ve called out the right person on their bullshit and that wasn’t you.”

“Okay, seriously what is going on?  Are you sick?”  He looks wary and reaches for the stool.

“Nothing and no.”  I sit down opposite him.  “We’re never going to be best buddies. That’s just not us, but we have to find a way for us to get along between us.  And I mean us, nobody else. It has to be you, me and Justin because, judging by Friday, he’s going to be as big a part of Gus’s life as you are.”

“What?! Are you serious?!” Justin gasps as he comes up the stairs with Gus.

“Yes I am. Now I have to go and deal with Michael. If he wants you to be the godfather to JR, I won’t stand in his way…”

“What do you mean judging by Friday?”  Brian asks.

“Although you did storm out, you didn’t go too far. You let him explain without anybody else interfering first. Though you have to thank Ben for that…”

“Ben?”

“He told Michael to sit down when he was going to comfort you.” I roll my eyes. “You should’ve seen his face…”

I get up and grab the little bag I brought with me. “I packed his reading and word books. The word books need to be completed so he can take…”

“What’s happening with Lindsay?”  Justin asks.

I sigh and shake my head. “I don’t know.  But that is for us to deal with.  Can you do me a favour, please? If she comes to you, don’t give her anything. She has to learn from her mistakes and…”

“No problem, he won’t.”  Justin reassures me.

“Gus, I’m going now.  I’ll be back at…”

“Mel.  We will drop him home at…”  He looks at his watch.  “Three, would that work for you?”

“Yes.  See you later Gus.”

“Bye momma!” Gus grabs his bag and runs to the sofa and dumps it out. “Thank you for bringing me to daddy!”

“You’re welcome Gus!  Be good for daddy and Jussin, okay?”

“I will momma!”

As I close the door, I hear Gus begging to go to the park and have hotdogs for lunch!

BEN & MICHAEL’S HOUSE – AN HOUR LATER

LOUNGE

MICHAEL

I glare at Mel. “Do you have any idea how humiliating it was to have Ben talk to me like I was a badly behaved child?!”

“At the risk of sounding obvious, you did behave badly.  But now that I’ve calmed down, I’d like to speak to you and Ben about…oh where’s Ben?”

I roll my eyes and cross my arms. “Went for a walk. He’s still pissed at me. He thought I was trying to interfere with Brian and Justin on…”

Although I’m surprised that Ben is still brooding, I agree with him.  “Weren’t you?”

“No of course not!” I snap. “I was offering support to my best friend as best friends do.”

“Of course. In that case, I’ll be going. I’ll call you guys later then.”  She gets up and head to the door.

“Wait, can’t you tell me and I tell Ben?”  I ask.

“No, I’d rather speak to both of you together.  Speak to you later.”

“Oh, do you have your car with you?”  I ask, getting my coat to follow her out.

“I do. Why?”

“I’m going to go and see Brian.  So you can give me a lift?”

“I’m not going back that way.  See you Michael.”

“But can’t you…”

“No I can’t!”  She interrupts bluntly before getting in the car and leaving me standing on the driveway.

I go back inside to call for Ruth only to be told that she’s off this weekend. So I book another car, and an hour later, I step out and sigh. No fancy car and the same driver as last time.

“Mr Novotny. Where we headed?” He asks, not getting out of the car, just winding down the window.

I give him the address for Brian’s loft and look forward to talking to him about what Justin did.

When I get there, I send him away but Brian doesn’t answer my buzzing. I decide to try another neighbour, when I see the notice.

Visitors please note: only ring the buzzer of the person that you wish to visit.  You will not be granted access to this building by ringing someone else’s buzzer.  Thank you.

I scowl at that and try another neighbour anyway.

“Yes?”

“Hi.  I need to get into the building, I’ve forgotten my key.”

“Then buzz the Super.”

“But…”

“Dude, seriously, you don’t think I can see you’re Brian’s best friend from my window?”

“So you can see me and know who I am, then let me in!”

“No.  We have new rules and I’m all for abiding by them…bye now.”

MEL

I could’ve given him a lift but I just didn’t want to. Especially when he didn’t even ask, just assumed. As I drive home, my mind goes back to something Ruth said. Why were Michael and Lindsay meeting and why not mention it?

Out of the corner of my eye, I see some frantic waving. I pull over and wind the window down and Ems sticks his head in.

“Darling, where are you going?”  He grins at me.  “Do you have time for some tasting?”

“Absolutely!”  I decree.

TWIN LAKES, 30 MINUTES FROM HEAVENLY RETREATS

BEN

It is such a gorgeous day.  I was worried that I would catch a cold after Friday but so far so good. I pause in mid jog before starting again. It isn’t until I’ve been going for about five minutes that I hear the little grunts and look down. Running alongside me is the most adorable French Bulldog I have ever seen!

“Hey little guy.”  I hunker down and stroke his head and get my hand cleaned for that.

I look around but can’t see anybody who looks worried about me being with their dog.  I check his collar and on seeing the number, call it.

“Heavenly Retreats, Good Morning.”

“Uh hi, have you lost a French Bulldog?”

“Oh thank God! She was going spare!”  The man’s voice is filled with relief.  “Where are you?  I can send a car to pick him up.”

“I’m at Twin Lakes. I can meet the car by the entrance gate.  I’ll be the one with the dog.”

“Gotcha, he’ll be there in 15 minutes.  Thank you again!”

I head to the gate and he seemed to stop at every single bush. In the end, I picked him up and I have a feeling that’s what he wanted in the first place!

“Frick!” A guy yells and the dog almost vibrates in my arms. “You monster, you scared the shit out of us!”

“Frick as in Frick and Frack?”  I laugh.

“Yes. Unlike him, Frack understands the concept of keep your ass indoors.” He takes Frick off me and puts him in the car.  “Get in please, sir.  We’d like to thank you by giving you lunch.”

“Honestly, that’s not necessary.  I’m just happy he’s getting home safely.”

The guy looks at me and I find myself blushing. “Sir, please.”  And as if on cue, Frick barks and tries to scramble out of the car.  “If only to keep him in the car?”

“Fine.”  I get in and marvel at the beauty of the car.  “This is gorgeous.  But do you have a cloth?  I’m a bit sweaty.”

HEAVENLY RETREATS

RUTH

“Seriously, I am going to ground your brother!” I growl at Frack as we wait for Greg to come back.  “And smack the back of the head of mine!”

Greg has been told time and time again to keep the door shut to their den but of course, they have him wrapped round their paws. The car pulls up and when Ben gets out, I’m shocked.  I head to meet them and give Greg the quiet look.

“Ben?  You’re her hero.”

“Ruth?  Hi!  Sorry who’s hero?”

“Well two people; my friend who runs this place.  I’m house and dog sitting. And Frack, his sister.”

He looks around and smiles.  “It is gorgeous here.  Certainly lives up to its name.”

“Come on.  No offence sweetheart but you are going to have a shower.  Greg, can you show him the facilities please?”

“No problem, no problem at all.”

Forty minutes later, Ben joins me in the private apartment. Frick almost helicopters off the sofa when he sees him but Frack is a bit wary. She’s not used to someone that big, so she tries to burrow under the cushions but within minutes, she’s fighting Frick for space on his lap.

“So Twin Lakes a jogging ground for you?”

“No not really.  I just needed to get away from the city.”

I grab a bottle of wine and wave it at him and after a moment’s hesitation, he nods.  “How’d you like your steak?”

“Oh really that’s…medium rare.”  He laughs and I frown. “Fiercest don’t fuck with me look I have ever seen.”

“Want fries?  I can get the kitchen to do some?”

“Proper crispy ones with salt on already?”

“Of course.  Is there any other?”  I grin at him and call down for two portions.

I watch him slowly start to relax under the snuffling of Frick and Frack. “No residual effects from Friday?”

“No, thankfully. It was a bit stupid of me to walk out like that.  But I was so furious.”

“Why?”

He goes on to tell me what happened. “And that’s when I left. When Debs started to shout at me saying I should support Michael in him asking Brian to be the godfather… It’s always like that with the Novotnys but I maintain that it wasn’t his place…”

“You didn’t know beforehand?”

“No.”  He sighs.

“Sore spot?”

“Huh?”

“What are you upset about really? The fact that he’s the token godfather or the fact that Michael didn’t include you in the discussion?”

He gives it some thought. “Both. I really hoped that being married would reduce his influence on him but…”

“Sorry back up a bit, whose influence on whom?”

“Brian on Michael. There are times when Michael drops everything to go running to Brian whenever he calls and…”

“How do you know that?”

He looks up at me in surprise.  “Because he goes running.”

“No. I mean that Brian tells him to come? You only have one side of the conversation.”

“Because that’s what he tells me.”

“Again, one side of the conversation which is Michael’s. Tell me something, has there ever been an occasion when Brian has reacted to Michael in a negative way in front of you and you defended him?”

“Yes and no, I didn’t. It was drinks a couple of weeks back. He intentionally kept Justin away and Brian was pissed off. He just said he was having drinks with his best friend but when Brian saw me, he said that he could’ve brought Justin with him.”

“Think he loves him?”

“Oh very much so. Sometimes, I watch them when they think nobody’s looking and they will hold fingers, not hands, fingers.  They just have to be touching…”

Tilt head, paste on frown and stare.

“Justin, I mean Justin! Even if Brian does love Michael, he will never love him the way he loves Justin and more importantly the way he can love Justin. We can never do that…I’m HIV positive. I think that sometimes Michael resents the fact that despite everybody they have fucked, either alone or together, they are still clean.”

“Has he and Brian ever?”

“No. But Brian and I have.”

I gape at him.  “Really?!”  

“At a White Party, before I got sick. And yeah, he was really good!” He chuckles, earning a sleepy glare from Frack, who is resting on his chest.

“Does Michael…”

“Yeah but he’s over it now. We had a brief period of jealousy but we’re fine now.”

“Uh huh.”  I check the steak.

“What’s with the uh huh? And is there any more wine?”

I top up his glass and sit next to him. “Tell me something. If Michael wasn’t in the picture and you could have Brian or Justin, who would you pick?”

“Neither!  They’re my friends!”

“What do you think Michael’s answer would be?”

“Easy it would be Brian, even though Justin is the love of his life”

Seriously dude strap on a fucking pair!

“So why are you allowing yourself to be placed second in your marriage, especially to a guy who is paying his distant paramour no mind whatsoever from what you say?  You said it yourself when they are together and think nobody’s watching, they just want each other.  And from what I’ve seen, when I was taking them home on Friday for example, Brian is very protective of Justin. Sometimes I think that he can’t quite believe…”

“That Justin loves him?  Oh what an idiot, of course Justin loves him!”

The knock on the door signals the arrival of fries and we plate up.

“Christ this is good!” He demolishes the steak in minutes. I offer him the remains of mine and he takes it happily.  I pretend not to notice when he gives Frick and Frack a piece each.

“I have a friend who doesn’t believe her boyfriend loves her despite him telling her every day, but because she’s always been told…”

“How unloved and unlovable he is, he’s come to believe it and it just takes one thing to send him back to doubt.”

“Uh…”

“Christ, how didn’t I see that?!”

“What?”

“Button pushing.” He sighs. “Well while I’m around that shit is going to stop!”

I believe the ball strapping has commenced.  Judging by that last statement, Ben’s officially supporting Team B&J!

BEN & MICHAEL’S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING

MICHAEL

The lights coming up the driveway attract my attention and when Ben gets out of the car not wearing what he went out in, my temper increases.

I’ve had a very frustrating day. I couldn’t get in to see Brian and he wasn’t picking up his phone.  I couldn’t believe it when I called Lindsay and she told me that he was with Gus and Justin. She was also angry because Mel helped Emmett with recipe testing but didn’t bring any samples home for her.

Brian was 15 minutes late bringing Gus back but Mel didn’t blow up because it was Justin’s fault. Of course, Boy Wonder walks on fucking water! He gave Gus an ice cream and they just had to get him to run it off.

I open the door and am about to say something when Ben looks passed me.  “Hunter!  When the hell did you get here?!”

I watch as they embrace tightly and he checks him over. “Where have you been, Ben?  You seem to have changed your clothes.”  I snipe.

“That can wait. How long are you here for, son?”  He pulls him into the lounge.

“A couple of months.”

“So you didn’t know he was coming?”  I demand.

“No, I didn’t but I’m curious about something. Why do you sound like our son being home is a problem for you?”

“I would’ve liked to have been consulted.” I grumble.

“I knew it! You don’t want me here! I can feel it radiating off you!” Hunter yells and stands up.

“Hunter please calm down.” Ben’s voice is firm. “Regardless of what Michael says, this is your home so go and unpack and we’ll talk in the morning.”

“Where am I going to sleep?  I don’t have a room, remember?”

“Put your stuff upstairs and I’ll make up the sofa bed for you.”

As he heads upstairs without looking at me, Ben starts to sort out his bed. “Ben, where have you been?”

“Getting perspective.”  He replies and heads upstairs to get the blankets.

What the fuck is that supposed to mean?!

CHAPTER 8 – TAKING OFF THE BLINKERS, MAYBE…AND TAXI!

OUTSIDE THE DINER – THURSDAY AFTERNOON

DEBS

I look at my watch again.  Jen is running late and that’s not like her.  She’s taking me for a champagne high tea.

“Hi Ma!”  Michael comes up to me.  “What are you doing outside?”

“Waiting for Jen.  Why aren’t you at the store?”

He rolls his eyes.  “I’m allowed a break for lunch.  I’m just going to grab a take out and go to see Brian.”

“Why?  Brian’s…”

“Oh wow look at that!”  He cries and I turn to see a car pull up that gets the attention of everyone on the street.  Ruth gets out and holds the door open for me.  “What is this?!”  He demands.

“An Aston Martin Mirage Volante Convertible.”  She replies coolly and I frown.

Why is she speaking to him like that?

“Debs!  Aren’t you getting in?”  Jen calls out.

I step in and Ruth closes the door behind me and I wind the window down to say something to Michael.

“So why didn’t I get this car?”  He snaps at her.  “Or you?”

“Not sure I follow.”  Her tone remains cool.

She’s beginning to piss me off!

“I have called twice and twice I have had a Lexus and not you.  I want to know why?”

“You would need to speak to the dispatcher.”  She gets back in the car.

“I’m talking to you!”  He snarls and puts his hand on my car door.  “I want an answer!”

“Michael, you are causing an unnecessary scene and delay.”  Jen leans across me and taps his hand.  “Now please remove your hand so we can be on our way.”

It takes a couple of minutes but he does remove his hand and I’m surprised when the window shoots up and the door locks.  As we head away from Liberty Avenue, I wait until we are away from the centre of town before turning to Jen.

“Don’t you think…?”  I raise my voice a bit.  “That Ruth was a bit rude to Michael?”

“When?”  She looks puzzled at me.

“Just before we were leaving.  He asked her a question and her tone was…”

“A lot more polite than he deserved.”  She surprises me.

“What do you mean?”  I demand.

“Do you actually listen to how Michael talks?”  She adjusts her skirt.  “The one thing I have always marvelled at is how you let Michael get away with the way he talks to you sometimes.”

“Michael doesn’t speak badly to me. It’s just that he’s…”

“Rude Debs.  He’s rude and I have to say the times he’s spoken to Justin…”

“When?!  When does Michael speak to Justin rudely?!”

“Every time he thinks nobody can hear him, and especially when Brian isn’t there.  Justin used to tune him out.  But lately…”

“No he doesn’t!  He doesn’t treat Justin any differently than when he first met him.”

“Good God he’s always treated Justin like this?!  I’m surprised that Brian only hit him the once!”

“You know about that?”  I bridle.  “I still can’t believe Michael forgave him, I haven’t quite.”

“Michael forgave him?  Are you kidding me?  It’s for Brian to forgive him, and I don’t think he totally has or will.”

“Why not?  Michael was right!”

“ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?!”  Jen yells and my ears rings.  “You claim to love my son but yet you’re fine with that?!”

“What are you yelling at me for?!  All Michael said was that Brian should cut the strings and let Justin fend for himself, stop pleading poverty and relying on guilt to get Brian to help him.  It did not warrant that punch.”

“That’s not what he said to Brian at the party!”  Jen roars at me with tears in her eyes.

“Jen!  What the hell is going on?  What did he say?!”

“That Brian should’ve left Justin to die!”  She screams.

Blink.  All I can do is blink.  “No.  Michael wouldn’t say that.”  I whisper.

“And Brian wouldn’t hit Michael, considering his past.  Didn’t you even ask Brian why?”

I just shake my head.

“Well I did and it took a lot of badgering but I eventually got him to tell me and no Justin doesn’t know!  Brian couldn’t tell him!”

“Michael would never…”

“I can’t believe you Debs!  You claim to love Brian like your own but when it comes to Michael you have your blinkers on! Your precious little boy can do no wrong!  Ruth, can you pull over please, I can’t…”

“I’m sorry Mrs Taylor, but you are the main passenger and I’m charged with getting you from your destination and back.  If anyone is leaving this car it’s not going to be you.”

“I see.  Deb, I can’t be in your company right now.  Ruth, please can you take us back to the diner and then take me home?”

“No.”  I snap.  “Drop me at Red Cape instead.”

“Instead what?”  Ruth demands and I can feel my face start to heat.

“Please.  Can you drop me there please, Ruth?”

She nods and the rest of the journey continues in silence.

RED CAPE COMICS

MICHAEL

What is it with the fucking Taylors and the way they speak to people?  Lindsay’s right. They talk like they’re being nice but they’re not!

“Hey Ma, how was whatever you went to with Jennifer?  You weren’t out long.”

“Tell me you didn’t say that to Brian?”

“Say what?”  I look quickly over my shoulder as I put away the comics.

“EVERYONE GET THE FUCK OUT!”  She yells and when the last person leaves she stands in front the door.

“Ma, what the fuck are you doing?!”

“Don’t!  Now let me try the question another way.  What did you say to Brian?”

“When?”  I try to get to the door to let my customers back that I can see milling outside, but she blocks me and pushes me back.

“At the anniversary party.  What did you say to get that punch?”

“That?  That’s what this is about?  It was years ago! I said he should stop Justin from mooching off him and he overreacted. You know what he’s like. On reflection, I’m glad Ben stopped me from going to speak to him on Friday. He might have punched me again.”

“So you didn’t say that Brian should’ve left Justin to die in the garage?”

“What?! Of course not! You know me Ma! I wouldn’t say anything like that! Is that what Justin said to you? And you believe him over me, your own son?!”

“No Michael…”

“I should hope not!”  I snap as my heart rate settles down.

“Justin can’t tell me something he doesn’t know.”

“Brian told you this bullshit?”  I rage.

“No, it wasn’t Brian. I’m sorry Michael. I knew you wouldn’t say anything like that. It’s just something I heard and I needed to be sure.”

“I can’t believe you even thought I would say something like that!”

“Look I’ll see you later.  Sorry again honey.”

“I should hope so too!  As for later, let me call you.  I’m really hurt right now!”

As she lets herself out, I turn back to my comics and heave a sigh of relief. “He still should’ve left him there!”  I mutter to myself.

DEBS

You’re right Michael I do know you.  And now I know you did say that to Brian!   I start to head into the diner but decide to go home instead.  As I walk along I recall the party and how we all rushed to Michael, and now I feel sick to my stomach.  Once I get indoors, I make myself some coffee and replay our last conversation and know what I need to do.  

“Jen.  It’s me Debs, please don’t hang up.  I’m sorry for what I said earlier, I really didn’t know.  I went to the store and confronted him but he repeated what he said to me and then blamed Justin for telling me lies and then blamed Brian.  When I left the store telling him I believed him I waited just a bit, and he actually muttered...still should’ve left him there....”

I start to sob and when I get my shit together there is silence on the other end.  “Jen?  Oh I thought you’d hung up.  What do I do?  How can I fix every fuck up I’ve made with Brian, Justin and Ben... and oh my God Carl, because I automatically believed my son?!  Jen how do I fix this, please can you help me?!”

Ten minutes later, she’s managed to calm me down and said she will be around on Sunday, as she wants to have a word with Michael too!

OUTSIDE THE LOFT – SATURDAY MORNING

JUSTIN

“What time’s your flight again?”  Brian’s hand in my hair is so soothing.

“Ten.  I wish I didn’t have to go.  But Sidney says I can’t decline and realistically, I know I can’t.”

“Justin stop, you’ve explained; it’s fine.  Where are you staying again?”

“Not sure.  Daphne booked it.  She’s meeting me at the airport and telling me then.”

“Just call me when you land and when you get to the hotel?  Ah, Ruth’s here.”

I turn around and it’s a Lincoln, an old style Lincoln.  “Jesus!”  I breathe.

“Get going, have a safe flight.”  He kisses me tenderly and my heart aches to not leave.

CAR TO AIRPORT

RUTH

I watch Justin look behind him until he can’t see Brian anymore and long to turn the car around.

“So what’s the purpose of the trip?”  I ask as he sinks into miserable silence.

“Got to go to a gallery to prepare a show that I don’t really want to go to.”

“I see.”  Okay, let’s try another approach.  “Oh how’s your friend doing?”

“Friend?”

“The one that was having problems with her fiancé?”

“Oh her... Well there’s another problem?”

“Want to talk about it?  It’s clearly bothering you.”

“Did I tell you she’s a writer?”  I shake my head.  “Well she’s won this competition and now has to go to have meetings for it but she knows her fiancé isn’t happy with him, I mean her, going.”

“Why wouldn’t he be happy?  Surely he’d be supportive of her career?”

“That’s what I said but she wants to handle her career her way and she can’t get out of the meetings.”

“What is it that he does?”

“He runs his own company.”

“So why can’t he go with her to the meetings?  If he’s the big boss, he can take the time off, right?”

“He wouldn’t want to go.  She’s very independent and has made it clear that this is her career to be run her way.”

“Has he told her that?  That he doesn’t want to go I mean.  Yes she can run her career her way.  But maybe it would be easier if he was with her doing the shitty stuff, like meetings in another city.  You know what it sounds like to me?  She wants to ask but is too afraid that he will say no and he wants to go but is too afraid to ask in case she says no.”

Silence.

I look back and he’s nibbling on his lip and fiddling with his phone.

For the love of God just call already!

“Can we pull over for a minute and can you get out please?  I ne-need to speak to my friend in private.”

I nod and try not to smirk when I pull up at the rest stop and get out.

JUSTIN

Please pick up, please pick up!

“Hey!  Everything OK?  I know you haven’t reached the airport.”

“No, everything is fine.  Well actually it’s not.  Brian…”

“Justin?”

“Will you come with me?  To New York I mean.  I don’t want to do these meetings but I have to and it would be easier…”

Silence.

“Brian?”

“Yeah, hang on.  Justin, next time you need to book a ticket anywhere get Cynthia to do it for you.  Okay, I’ve booked us on the flight at three.  Justin?”

“Yeah I’m still here. Do you want us to come back or do you want to meet me at the airport and we find a hotel for an hour or so?”

“Get the airport, book the room and wait for me.”

“Okay!”  I hang up grinning and my cock twitching.  “Ruth!  You can get back in now.”

“All sorted?”

“Yeah thanks.”

“Good I’m glad.”

BRIAN

I double check my case and I have everything I need.  I can’t help the smile on my face as I lock it and slip my passport in my pocket.  I head to the super’s office and let him know that nobody is going to be in the loft this weekend and he grins.  He’s enjoying keeping Michael and Lindsay out…and I have regained my popularity amongst my neighbours!

As I step outside the building, I almost jump out of my skin as Michael calls out and runs up to me just as a cab pulls up.

“Hey Brian!  What are you up to?”

“Pittsburgh Airport please.”  I say when I get in.

“What’s in Pittsburgh Airport?”  Michael demands.  “I wanted to hang out with you today.”

“Justin is.  We’re going to New York.”

Michael’s face is a picture of confusion and annoyance as he holds onto the cab door.

“Hey buddy, you want to get let go so I can get going?”  The cabbie orders.

“A hundred bucks if you can make it in half an hour.”

“Seriously dude, let the fuck go of the door!”  The cabbie barks and with squealing tires we’re on our way and Michael screaming my name fades into the background.

I switch my phone to silent after calling Justin to say I’m on my way and I’ll call him when I get there.

CHAPTER 9 – HUNTER-ING AND GATHERING

PITTSBURGH AIRPORT HOTEL – AN HOUR LATER

JUSTIN

I’m pinned against the door. I want to kiss him but he just shakes his head and is staring at me.

“Why didn’t you ask me to come with you before?”

“Would you have come?”

“Yes.”  I raise my eyebrows.  “Okay I would’ve grumbled but I would’ve come.”

“Grumbled?”  I tease him.

“Yes, grumbled.”  He lowers his head and kisses my forehead and is about to kiss me when the beast makes its presence felt.

“Food? If you say yes, we are not eating here!”  He states firmly.

“Yes, grumbling stomachs aren’t conducive to romance.”

“Romance?”  He frowns.  “Are we romantic?”

“Yes, now come on! Bar Symon does the best mac and cheese.”

“Mac and cheese?  How is that conducive to romance?”

“Working it off?”  I smirk at him.

“Order a large portion.”  He grins back.

As we head to the bar after checking out, I give his hand a squeeze and he squeezes back.

MICHAEL & BEN’S HOUSE – SAME TIME

LOUNGE

MICHAEL

“Where the heck have you been? I’ve been trying you for ages!”  I demand when Ben comes back in.

“Heck?  Since when do you say heck?  I was getting some things for class on Monday, my battery died.  What’s so important?”

What’s so important?!

I glare at him and point at the sofa, which while it is back in sofa form it still has the blankets on it.

“The sofa?  What about it?”

“The mess of the sofa. I can’t have this for two months!”  I pout.

“Michael, he’s been awake for an hour, tops.  Where is he now?”

“I don’t…wait how do you know how long he’s been awake for?”

“He was asleep when I left. I have been out for about an hour.” He leaves his purchases on the table and puts his phone on to charge.  “So was that it? You phoned to complain about the sofa?”

“No that wasn’t it. You need to speak to him about the mess he’s leaving round the house!”

“Two things: this is his home and secondly, he’s your son too. Tell me why you can’t speak to him?”

“He doesn’t listen to me!” I point out. “He just rolls his eyes and walks away.”

“No. Why can’t you speak to him? You talk at him.  And sometimes you do the same to me, so I know what it feels and sounds like.”

He walks to the bottom of the stairs. “Hunter!  You in the shower yet?”

“Just got out!”

“Can you sort the sofa out when you come down please?”

“Sure!”

“Thanks!”

He heads to the kitchen and I follow him.  “What do you mean I speak at you? I have never done…”

“You’re doing it now!”  He snaps.

“Oh by the way Ma wants us to come round for dinner tomorrow.” He leans against the counter and grimaces. “What’s wrong with that?”

“I’m still unhappy with the way she spoke to me and I’m not of a mind to see her right now.”

“Well I think you should. It will give you an opportunity to make it up to her.”

“Make it up to her? Michael, she upset me, not the other way around!”

“Ben, you know what Ma’s like. Just come and make nice for fuck sake! I would do the same for you!”

I storm out of the kitchen passing Hunter on the stairs.  “Tidy that up now!”  I demand.

“That’s what I’m going to do! Jeez!”

HUNTER

I head to the kitchen after sorting out the sofa to find dad sipping coffee with that look on his face.

“What’s wrong with him?  It can’t just be the sofa.”

“What do you think is wrong with him?”  He sighs.

“Ah, where is he?”  I help myself to coffee.

“I don’t know. All I got was he’s gone when I asked what was wrong and then this delightful mood.  I think wherever he’s gone was a spur of the moment thing because he told me he was going to hang out with him.”

“Great. Just great. Let’s hope he’s not wherever he is for long. I don’t think I could stand it.  Oh wait, I have something for you!”

I bound up the stairs and head into the room. I find the paper and am about to go downstairs when I hear that familiar, moaning whine and head to the door.

“So he didn’t tell you either?  I don’t see why he needs to fucking be there for the widdle boy!  The whole point is that he goes to New York, not that they do! I’m not shouting. I’m merely pointing out this is not working out the way we hoped. You need to get Brian back here! Let him deal with his career over there and alone!”

Is this guy for fucking real?!

“You have the perfect reason to call him back.  Yes, just say that, he will come back. Look, I have to go. I’ve got dinner with Ma tomorrow and Hunter is also here. I’ve got to try and get Ben to pull his head out of his ass and say sorry to her for Friday. Yeah, call me when you have his flight information.”

I make my way back downstairs and head to the kitchen. I hand the paper to my dad and hope he doesn’t notice the expression on my face.

“Holy shit Hunter!  98% that’s brilliant!”

“Are you casting aspersions on my intelligence?”  I laugh in the face of his pride.

“What intelligence?” Michael asks with a smile.

“Remind me who is going to college and learning and who quit because his best friend wasn’t there?”  I snap.  “Which one is me and which one is you?”

His face drops and he stomps out.

JFK AIRPORT ARRIVALS

JUSTIN

“JUSTIN!” Daphne’s voice almost silences the entire airport as she waves frantically at me.

“You do realise she’s going to go nutso when she sees you?” I laugh as Brian shakes his ear clear.

“No she won’t. She will react calmly and… ooof!” He almost buckles under the full weight of Daphne attaching herself to his upper body and peppering his face with kisses.

“Brian! What are you doing here?! I am so pleased!”

“Justin!” He laughs. “Stop laughing and help me!”

Daphne gets the hint and slides down his body. “Hi Daphne. Not that I’m unaware of my fabulousness but why is my presence so pleasing to you?”

“Uh because I…”

“Spill it.” He orders and looks over her shoulder and smirks.  “What’s his name?”

“Tony. I’m sorry Jus, I got the weekends mixed up and…”  She has the good grace to look embarrassed.

“Christ Daph, couldn’t you have called me and I would’ve made it another weekend?!”  I grump.

“I can still see you but just not this weekend and now that Brian is with you…”  She looks pleadingly at me.

“Go but you owe me big!” I pout and with a kiss, she’s heading towards departures.  “Wait Daph, where are you going?”

“Paris! I’ll bring you some macaroons and chocolate!”

“But what about the hotel? I need to know where I’m staying!”

“Oh shit yeah!  Howard Johnson…”

It doesn’t take a genius to know that this is not going to happen for Brian. “Before you say anything...”  I turn to him. “I didn’t know and I know that this is not going to fly for you but it’s just one night.”

“Come on, let’s just go.”  He sighs and I slowly follow.

HOWARD JOHNSON, NYC

BRIAN

Absolutely not! It is bad enough that we had to wait for so fucking long for a cab but I am not staying here.

“Justin…”

“Okay, it’s bad. But let’s just make the most of it.” I grab our bags out of the boot but he’s leaning against the cab door on his pad.  “Brian?  I need to pay for the cab and it helps if you’re not leaning against it.”

“I’m not, wait a second. I would prefer it if we don’t stay here.”

“It is one fucking night!” I’m starting to get a little frustrated with his queenliness.  “If you don’t want to stay here then fine but I’m…”  I drop the cases by his feet and look at the screen properly. “We can’t go here, it’s…no Brian, don’t show me the bathroom!”

“Halves?  Can we go halves?  Please twat... I cannot stay here!”

“Halves and you do the cab?” I put the cases back in the boot as he nods. “Well, tell him the address and don’t look so fucking smug!”

HEAVENLY RETREATS – 30 MINUTES LATER

BRIAN

I knew Ruth had good taste, she has me as a friend after all. But this is gorgeous! He’s trying so hard not to do it.

“Just do the happy dance and get it over with!” I demand and he wiggles around the room before launching himself into my arms.

“Halves, you promise?” He holds my gaze.

I walk us back to the bed and lay him gently on it.  “I promise.” Just as I’m about to kiss him, my phone vibrates. Pulling it out, I wince.  “Shit!”

“What’s wrong?”

“Gus is sick and asking for me.”

“Christ! Did she say what’s wrong with him?  Is he in hospital?” He gives me a gentle shove and starts to gather our things.

“Justin, what are you doing?” I sit up and start to call Lindsay back.

“I’m coming back with you. I will explain to the gallery and they will understand.”

I just stare at my man and my heart is filled to bursting.  “Hang on a second…”

“No arguments Brian, I’m coming back.”  He tells me firmly.

“That’s not what I was going to say.”  I put up my finger to stop him from talking. “Hey Mel, it’s me. How’s Gus?  Oh, it’s just I got a text from Lindsay to say he wasn’t well and was asking for me.  Ah, a stomach ache. Are you sure? Okay, we’ll come and see him first thing when we get back on Tuesday.  Thanks Mel.”

“Well?”

“Mel says we don’t need to come back but I think we should get him a present.” I sigh in relief both because Gus is not as serious as Lindsay made out and I don’t want to go home yet.

“Agreed and maybe call him in the morning?”  He calls over his shoulder as he starts to unpack for me.

I walk up behind him and wrap my arms round him and kiss the side of his neck.  “Come here, just come here a second.”

I tug him back to the bed and we start to kiss deeply and slowly. “Up.” He mumbles against my kiss bruised lips. “Sit up so I can start to get you naked.”  I chuckle and do as I’m told.

He pulls my sweater over my head and pushes me back down.  His soft lips make their way down to my nipples and he gently sucks and nips at them and I run my fingers through his hair, I just love his hair.

When he gets to my stomach I’m groaning as he traces his tongue round my belly button before slowly undoing my pants.  Kissing every inch of skin that becomes visible but not where I want him to.

“Justin.”  I grouse as he makes his way down to my ankles.  “You missed a spot!”

“Hush and be made love to.”  He orders tugging my pants off. “God, you are so beautifully made.” He kisses behind my knees and I’m surprised at how good that feels.

“Oh!” I gasp as his fingers ghost across my balls and I smile as he checks them.  “Anything?”

He looks shyly up at me.  “Um, not that I can tell, let me just suck on them for a minute.”

I close my eyes as his mouth closes over one ball and he starts to stroke my cock at the same time. “Really good, really good.” I chant over and over again as he alternates between sucking and stroking.

“Turn over, Brian turn over.”  He lifts the hair from the back of my neck and kisses a trail down to my ass, then he parts my cheeks and blows.

“Ch-Christ!”  I stammer as he works in his tongue and I start to see stars.  I don’t know why it feels better than it normally does but it does. “Jus-Justin!  Sl-slow do… Whoa oh fuck!  Oh God!” I yell as I spurt ribbons across the bed.

“Aaah!  Aaah oh yes!”  He groans and I look over my shoulder just in time see him grab the sheets on either side of me, lower his head against my back and shudder. It takes a few minutes for us to get our breath back before getting under the covers.

I pull him into my arms and kiss his forehead.  “Okay did that just happen?”

“Uh huh.  I haven’t come from watching you come in a long time”

“Mmm.  But that was so hot. I saw stars, actual stars.”  I yawn.  “Want to spoon?”  He shakes his head then snuggles closer. “What time’s your meeting on Monday?”

“Eleven.”  He mumbles and entwines our legs.  “Can we go to the Botanical Gardens tomorrow?”

“In the morning okay?”  He nods.  “Then can we hit the stores in the afternoon?”

“Deal.” He kisses my chest and within minutes, we are both asleep.

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE

GUS’S ROOM

MEL

“But momma, I’m feeling much better now.”  Gus pouts, having not gotten anywhere, trying to get out of bed with Lindsay.

“You were very hot Lambskin.” She soothes and tries to get him to lie back down.

“Only because you kept covering me with blankets.” He points out in a very Kinney-esque manner and I can’t help the giggle. Lindsay is unamused.

“Oh come on, Lindsay! He just had a bit of gas, let him out of bed. He says he’s fine and if he’s not, then we send him back to bed.”

She sighs and nods. “Okay but the moment you feel un…” She doesn’t get to finish the rest of the sentence as Gus shoots out the room before coming back.

“Momma, can we make cookies?” He looks up at me and I nod. “Yes!  I can make some for Jussin. He’s shown me how to make the chocolate chip ones.”

Lindsay frowns.  “What do you mean, Gus?”

“When momma took me to see daddy, we made chocolate chip cookies before we went to the park. I wrote it down in my book...ah, here it is!  Come on momma!”  He yells as he makes his way downstairs.

“See? He’s fine. There was no need for you to be so alarmist to Brian after all.” I smile sweetly at her and head downstairs to halt the whirlwind that is Gus.

“Wait a minute Mel. How did you know I contacted Brian?”  She demands.

“He called me and I said he should stay where he was. But they are coming to see Gus on Tuesday. Now, I have to save our kitchen from the attention of an over enthusiastic four year old. I’m not promising that they will taste as good as Justin’s were. You loved them, remember? But I’ll try.”

LINDSAY

As Mel makes her way downstairs, I just stand there. Since when does Brian contact Mel about Gus and not me?  I grab my phone out and place the call but it just rings...and rings!

“Lindsay, really need some help here! He’s whisking!  Dry whisking!”

I head to the landing and shush her. “JR’s sleeping!” I hiss.

“No she’s not; she’s down here in her pen.  Now come on and help!”

“Oh, let me get changed first!”

“Trust me you don’t want to do that…no Gus, don’t crack the eggs yet!”

Inwardly cursing, I make my way downstairs.

NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDENS – SUNDAY MORNING

JUSTIN

This is one of the most beautiful gardens I’ve been to. “So peaceful.” I sigh and itch to draw but I didn’t bring my pad with me.

“Want this?” He hands me a pad and my pencils. “I was a boy scout.” He grins at the incredulous expression I know is showing on my face. “You going to stay here?” My face falls and I nod. “Just getting a coffee, helps if I can find you.  Want a chocolate malt if they have it or a hot chocolate if they don’t?”

“Please!  I won’t move from here!”

“Good.  Won’t be long.”

I am so glad he’s here!

BEN & MICHAEL’S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING

BEN

After almost 36 hours of sulking, stomping and bitching at Hunter, I agreed to go to dinner at Debs.  He’s still not happy but he’s happier.

“Michael!  Are we going now or not?!”  I call up to him.

“Just hold on a second. I’m just speaking to Lindsay.” He calls back.

I head up the stairs and head to the bedroom but I’m pulled into the spare room by Hunter and given the hush signal. We watch Michael come out of the bedroom and then calls down to me. When I don’t respond, he leans against the bannister... in relief?

“What do you mean he’s not coming back? Well, when is he coming back then? Did he at least tell you that? He’s not called you back either? I’ve been trying him since he took off.  So he’s coming to see Gus on Tuesday? Okay not a problem, I’ll see you then.  Yeah dinner at Ma’s. Ben finally pulled his head out of his ass and is going to apologise as he should.  Thankfully, Hunter is not coming with us but he’s still on the fucking sofa! So I have that to contend with. I still can’t believe that Ben didn’t know he was coming! They’re too thick as thieves for him not have known; bound by blood I believe he once said. He wants to sleep upstairs but we need to keep the room for JR when she visits. Look, I’ve got to go. I’m not sure where Ben is but I need to call Ruth. Yeah, I will be pissed if we get the Lexus again.  Bye.”

I feel sick to my stomach and can’t look at Hunter for fear of seeing the amount of hurt in his eyes. But when I do, I also see his anger.

“You have to kick him out dad! You have to! He doesn’t care about you, me or anyone but Brian and himself!” He hisses once Michael is out of earshot. “It’s a shame that he hasn’t noticed that the only man Brian cares about is Justin!”

“I think he has and it fucks him off.  But right now, I need to think. Hunter, please I need to think. Let me just get through tonight.”

AN HOUR LATER

BEN

I feel calmer. We’re almost at Debs but he’s pissed off again as Ruth isn’t driving us this evening. Turns out when the primary account holder is out of the city on business, she’s on 24 hour standby.

“Yet again we have the fucking Lexus and him!” He gripes. “Ma had Ruth and an Aston Martin something or other…”

“Mirage Volante Convertible.” The driver interrupts as he pulls up. “It’s a sweet ride!”

“Who was talking to you?!” Michael snaps as he get out and actually flounces to the front door.

“Michael, there is no need for you to be so rude!” I call after him but of course, he ignores me.

“Oh don’t worry sir, I’ve heard worse. Never saw them step in shit straight after they got out of the car though. That was a first.”

“You’re kidding?” I laugh for the first time today.

“Nope, just straight out and splat!”  He nods in the direction of Michael.  “He’s mostly likely still pissed because I made him clean the seat after he put his feet on them.”

“Ben! Are you coming or not?!”  He yells from the door.

“Please call me Ben.”  I tell the driver.

“Carmine. Nice to meet you Ben. Have a good evening.”

“Somehow Carmine, I doubt that.”  I sigh.

“Want me to wait?” He asks and I see genuine concern. “At least, you can get out of here quick if the shit hits the fan.”

“Thanks Carmine. Tell you what... if I’m not out in an hour, assume it’s okay and you can go.”

He looks at Michael in dismay. “An hour starting from now, right?” He asks, smirking and pulls out his phone. “Well, synchronise watches then!”

“BEN!” Michael shrieks.

“Alright!” I shout back. “Starting now?” I grin at Carmine and then head to join Michael at the door.

“Have you finished flirting with the driver?” He growls.

“Have you finished screaming like a fishwife?” I bite back as I join him on the step. “Why haven’t you gone in?”

“First, I forgot my key and secondly you were flirting with the driver!”

“I was not flirting; I was apologising for your behaviour... again!” I glare at him and rap on the door.

“Hey guys come on in!” Carl opens the door. As per usual, Michael virtually ignores him.

“Jennifer. What a surprise! I wasn’t expecting to see you today.” I kiss her on both cheeks.

I’ve always admired her. The way she’s always held herself with such dignity and made her own way, I see where Justin gets his determination and drive from. Some people could learn a thing or two.

“Hi Ben, you are looking well.” She squeezes my arm and leads me to the sofa. “Now what’s this I hear about you almost catching a cold? You have to look after yourself.”

“Yes, you do Ben.”  Debs comes in and immediately, my hackles start to rise. “I’m sorry that I upset you so much that you stormed out.”

What?!

“I uh…thank you Debs.” I look at her in confusion, wondering where the punchline is.

“Ben, now don’t you think you have something to say to Ma and to me?” Michael asks, standing next to Debs, crossing his arms.

“No, he doesn’t Michael.” Debs states. “Well not me, anyway. I was wrong to attack Ben the way I did. Now, do you want a beer, Ben?”

“Are you okay, Debs?”  I ask warily.

“Yes I’m fine. Beer or wine?”

“Red if you have it.” I look across at Carl and he looks as bewildered as I feel!

KITCHEN

DEBS

I grab the wine and am surprised to find Carl behind me. “You okay, Debs?”

“Yeah sweetheart, why?” I grab the glasses. “Can you bring the white? It’s in the fridge.”

“Debs stop!” He hisses and I do so. “You and by you I mean you, apologised to Ben!”

“Yeah I know. Strap yourself in, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!” I kiss him on his cheek and head to the lounge.

I hand a glass to Ben and a beer to Michael as we take our seats.

“So how’s Hunter doing?” Carl asks and I notice the roll of Michael’s eyes.

How didn’t I notice that before?

“He’s actually back for a couple of months. He got 98% on his paper.”

“That’s great! You must be so pleased!” Jen enthuses and again, I watch Michael and his just about hidden grimace.

“For someone so intelligent, he still hasn’t worked out how to tidy up after himself.” Michael grumbles. “The amount of times I’ve had to remind him to sort the sofa bed out before he has a shower…”

“Why is he on the sofa bed? What’s wrong with the bedroom?” I look between Ben and Michael.

“It’s for JR when she visits.”  Michael answers brusquely. Yes that was definitely brusque!

“But in the meantime, he can stay in there. It was his room first, after all. He’s too lanky for the sofa.” Carl points out.

“Thank you Carl but I will decide who sleeps where in my house.”  Michael smiles tightly.

“Funny you should say that, Michael...” I look at him sternly. “We are changing the locks on Monday.”

“Okay. I’ll be round for my key on Tuesday, after I go see JR.  Are we going to eat now?”

“No and no.” I reply and Carl looks incredulous while Michael just looks confused.

“What does that mean no and no?”

“No, you can’t have a key and no we can’t eat yet. We’re not done talking.” I tell him.

I take a breath and look at Ben. “Did you know? Is that why you are so angry with him?”

“Know what?” Ben looks at Michael and then me.

“What he said at the anniversary party some years back?” I look across at Jen and she gives me a small nod of encouragement.

“What par…”  Ben asks

“This again?!” Michael snaps and crosses his arms. “I told you what I said! Why are we going over this again? I’m still upset that you even questioned me. You have the nerve of actually taking the word of some gossip on the street over mine!”

“Christ! Am I like that?” I look at Carl and he gives a small wince. “They do say that kids learn from their mother’s knee.”

“Debs. Focus.” Jen orders gently.

“Did you know that Michael told Brian that he should’ve left Justin to die in the garage at the anniversary party?  And that's why he hit him.”

All colour drains from Ben’s face before he stands and turns to look at Michael.  “You didn’t say that?”

“I told you what I said and Brian over reacted to it and…”

“What did he tell you Ben?” Jen asks.

“Jennifer, this is none…”  Michael begins.

“Shut up!” Carl snarls. “Ben, what did Michael tell you he said?”

“He s-said all he said was that Justin should be on his own and stop mooching off him.”

“Which is exactly what I told you, Ma! Tell me who has been spreading lies about me, Ma and I’ll give them a piece of my mind.”

“No thanks. I don’t want anything from you! And like Brian, who doesn’t lie, I do not gossip.”  Jen retorts coldly.

“You?!” Ben exclaims. “You told Debs? But what does Brian…  Oh God, he told you, didn’t he?”

“Yes, he told me. Unlike some of his so-called friends and family, I asked him.”

“And when I left the store, I waited. And then, I heard you say what Jen said you said…” I tell Michael, looking directly at him.

The slap/punch combo happened so quick it took us all by surprise, especially Michael, who immediately spat out a tooth. Before she could get in another one, Ben carried Jen outside and started yelling. I ran to the door to find him stuffing Jen into a back seat and telling the driver to not let her out of the car.

He comes back and looks for Michael. “Where is he?!”

“I’m here.” He comes down the stairs with his lip rapidly swelling. “I just want to go home.”

“You are home!”  Ben yells. “I want every piece of you removed from Hunter’s house. I want you gone, Michael!  Gone!”

“What do you mean Hunter’s house?!”

“The deed to the house is in his name; I just pay the mortgage. And after the way you spoke about him earlier, I am so fucking glad!”

“Wait what do you mean by how he spoke about him earlier?” Carl demands.

“That we are bound by blood and thick as thieves. Oh and he’s thankful that’s not here tonight.”

“Oh, is that right?! Find a hotel. You are not fucking staying here! Carl, get him out of our house.  GET HIM OUT!”  I shout with tears streaming down my face.

And while Carl removes a screaming Michael, Ben tries to comfort me as best he can.

HEAVENLY RETREATS, NEW YORK – SAME TIME

BRIAN & JUSTIN’S ROOM

BRIAN

I’m on my elbows and knees, whimpering and grabbing the sheets. “Ju-Ju-Justin, stop please stop!”

“What’s wrong am I hurting you?”

“No, just slow down a bit.”  I gasp as sweat drips down my body.

“I-I can’t…”

“Pull out.” I order gently.

He withdraws, then sits on his haunches. And when I look at him, he looks miserable.  “I didn’t last even one thrust the first time.”

“Justin.” I sit opposite him. “It was your first time!”

“But I want it to be better this time. I know you didn’t...”  I frown and then prod him in the chest.  “You didn’t like that I let off so quick.”

“Come here. Come here, you adorable little twat.” He wraps his legs round me and looks so crestfallen, I want to laugh but that would not be helpful. “I was wanking when I asked you.  I had to take the edge off, as I knew you would say yes.”

“Brian!”  He squeaks indignantly and then looks into my eyes. “Really? You really did?”

“Yeah, I really did. Now how about we try this again but face to face?”

He bites his lip.  “Okay.”

“Once inside, just stay still for a minute, okay?” He nods and soon he’s deep inside me, his eyes look so lust blown. “Now just rock don’t…oh…don’t thrust!”

Ten minutes later, he slumps down on top of me. “Touchdown.”  He giggles.

“Oh yeah.  For once, you’ve used the right sporting metaphor.”

“I shall bitch slap you for that, once I have the energy.”  He mumbles into my ear before he’s sound asleep.

CHAPTER 10 – FIGHTING AND TALKING

DEBS’ HOUSE

BEN

“Oh fuck!  Be right back!”  I shout and leave Debs on the sofa and run to the door.

I see Carl dragging Michael towards the car even though he’s trying to get out of his grasp, he’s got no chance against a cop of over 20 years. Just as I’m about to call out to him, I feel Debs’ hand on my arm.

“No. She needs this.” She tells me firmly.  “Hey!  Unlock the car!”  Debs shouts at Carmine and he looks at me and I nod.

As soon as he does, Jennifer is out and the next thing I see is him crumpled on the ground so it doesn’t take a genius to work out where she nailed him this time.

CARL

Holy Christ that was one fuck of a kick!  I watch Jennifer straighten herself out and then head back into the house. Michael is still curled into a ball, whimpering.

“What am I doing now?!” The driver calls out.

Ben and Debs have a conversation before Ben walks to the car, steps over Michael and gets in.  “Can you take me home please?”

“What about him?”  He nods down at Michael.

“What about him?”  Ben replies coldly. “Home please.”

“Of course.”

With a small smile at me, he winds up the window and they drive away.

“Michael?”  Debs being by my side surprises me.  “Michael!”  She snaps and he looks up pitifully at her. “Do you have money for a hotel?”

“Ma…”  He croaks slowly, sitting up but keeping his knees close to his chest.

“Money for hotel?”  She repeats.

“Where am I going to stay?” He whines. His pitch is somewhat higher because, no doubt, of where his balls have been relocated to! Ouch!

“Don’t know and right now, I don’t care. Just know it is going to get cold out here and this jacket is not going to keep you very warm.” She drops it on his head and taking my hand leads me back to the house.

HEAVENLY RETREATS – MONDAY AFTERNOON

BRIAN & JUSTIN’S ROOM

JUSTIN

We both look at each other; the meeting went really well.  Really very well.  We start to grin and then he’s picks me up and spins me round the room.

“Stop! I’m gonna puke!” I giggle and we land on the bed.

“So…”  He kisses me on the nose.  “Are you going to do it?”

I frown briefly. “Just this show? Yeah I am.” He’s still smiling. “But I’m not sure about the other two.”

“Why not?” He looks puzzled. “It’s the opportunity of a lifetime…”

“Brian, please will you fucking listen to me? Like I said to Lindsay, New York is not the opportunity of my lifetime, you are. New York will always be there but I want you as long as I can have you. I love you. How many times do I have to say it for you to believe me?” I can feel tears pooling and I blink them away.

He sits up and looks genuinely shocked and bewildered. “I’ve never heard it outside of my family and friends without the unspoken words after all we’ve done for you or if you loved me you would…”

“I don’t want anything from you but you!” I yell in frustration and throw my hands up for emphasis.

He lies back on top of me. “Calm down princess. I get it now, I do. I love you too. So am I your plus one for this shin…ouch no hitting the date!” He rubs his head and smiles. “Now before the beast starts to roar, let’s get some food.”

He gets up and heads to the door but I’m still on the bed astonished. “You just…”  I look at him.

“I know and my cock is still 9 and half cut.” He sticks his hands down his pants and feels around. “Yep definitely.” Sighing, he walks back to the bed and pulls me upright. Rolling his lips in, he looks like a little boy. “I might not always say it but I do.”

“Room service, definitely room service.” I pull him back towards the bed. “In about an hour.”  I start on his shirt but the beast has other ideas and he drags me out of the room.

ON THE WAY TO BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE

MICHAEL

I was in absolute agony last night. I ended up in some grotty hotel but I’m sure that Ben has calmed down by now. Okay… So, I shouldn’t have said it but I was so cross at what he did and Brian let him walk on water for it. Again! I don’t care that they have an open relationship!

As the cab pulls up outside, I’m unsurprised to see Hunter loafing about. “What are you doing out here? Shouldn’t you be studying or something?”  I demand.

“Shouldn’t that be my question?” He retorts, standing in front of the closed door.

“What do you mean?” I snap and try to pass him but he blocks me. “Hunter, move out of the way! I’m cold, tired and bruised!”

“No. You don’t live here anymore.” He smirks. “You said bruised, where’s that? Also, I don’t know if you noticed but you seem to be missing a tooth, how did that happen?”

“None of your fucking business! Ben and I had a little row and both said things we didn’t mean!”

“Well I mean this! Go the fuck away!” Ben’s voice startles me as he walks up the front porch steps. “But before you go we need an address to send your stuff to by the end of tomorrow.  That will give us time to pack for you.”

“Ben! You can’t do this!” I shout at him.

“Yes I can. Hunter wants you out, I want you out and so you are out.”

“No I am not! I am going in the house to have a bath and a nap and then we will discuss this.  Now get the fuck out of my way!”

Ben nods at him and he moves to the side and with a smirk, I step up and put the key in the door and nothing happens.

“What’s wrong with this door?” I demand as I hear Ben snort behind me.

“We’ve changed the locks to Hunter’s house.” Ben tells me and there is a gasp from Hunter.

“My house? What do you mean my house?”

“The deed is in your name. Clearly Michael forgot that since, like you said on Sunday, if it doesn’t concern Brian or comics…”

“What the fuck are you talking about?!” I snap. “We’ve never discussed this! And I would prefer not to discuss this on the lawn in front of our neighbours!”

“You’re the one yelling Mr Novotny.” Ben points out and I blush. “Now we did discuss this when we adopted Hunter. Remember, we agreed that he should have the house in his name so he’d always be able to come home.”

Fuck! I remember that now!

“Now you need to leave so we can get on with our lives…”

“Hope you find a pillow to put that tooth under if you still have it!”  Hunter snickers.

“I will be back!” I storm off, grabbing my phone and placing a call. “Brian! It’s me! You need to call me back immediately! Ben has thrown me out!” I hang up and manage to hail a cab and give them Lindsay’s address.

PITTSBURGH AIRPORT, ARRIVALS LOUNGE – EARLY EVENING

RUTH

Well just judging by the hand holding and dopey grins, I think that the weekend went well.

“Good evening gentlemen. The Loft?”

“Yes please.” Justin yawns.

When we get to the car, they just get in and within minutes Justin is asleep. More importantly, he’s asleep in Brian’s arms.

“So how was it?”  I ask quietly.

“Great... just great.”

“I’ll wake you when we’re there.” I wink at him as he just nods and closes his eyes.

When I try to take the turning onto Tremont, I find it closed off. I manage to get the attention of a cop. “What’s going on?”

“Gas leak. Still waiting for them to arrive so nobody goes down here.” He explains.

“Shit. Okay thanks.” I look in the back of the car and they are still asleep.  Reversing back, I head to the only other place I know to go.

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE

LOUNGE

LINDSAY

I just can’t understand why Ben reacted this way to what Michael said. It wasn’t kind and Brian took it the wrong way but it was years ago. Mel is reading and Michael is in the bathroom, though he has been in there for a long time.

Brian still hasn’t called either of us back and I’m furious, if truth be told. Not only because he didn’t call me back but that he called Mel. Despite me asking why he contacted her, I don’t buy her answer that he just did.

The door knocks and I look at Mel and she shrugs. I open the door and am surprised to find Debs outside and I let her in. “I understand that Michael is here?” I nod and point towards the bathroom.

“Do you know what happened?” I ask. “He just said that he and Ben had a row about the party and he’s thrown him out over what he said.”

“Yes that’s about the gist of it. But that’s between them; I’m not getting involved. I just wanted to know that he’s here. Now I’m going to kiss my granddaughter goodnight and be on my way.  Carl and I have dinner plans.”

Debs not getting involved? Okay, what the fuck is going on?!

GARAGE OF RUTH’S CONDO – AN HOUR LATER

RUTH

Mercifully, they are still asleep. I dashed upstairs to get rid of the things that could scream Ruth lives here and go back downstairs. Taking a breath, I open the door and shake Brian’s shoulder.

“Guys? Guys wake up!”

Justin protests and burrows back under the blanket that Brian had covered him with.

“Come on guys, get out.” After a bit more protesting, he slides out of the car and looks around.

“Where are we?” Brian frowns.

“Friend’s place I’m house sitting for. Tremont has a gas leak so nobody in or out. You can use the spare bedroom for the night.”

“Oh okay. Lead the way.” Brian takes the cases out of the boot and they follow me up.

SECOND BEDROOM, RUTH’S CONDO

JUSTIN

This has got to be the second most comfortable bed ever, after the loft.  As we spoon together having had a lovely waterfall shower fuck, I kiss his hand and then frown.

“Shit! Messages!”  I exclaim and we both reach for our phones.

I have a couple from mom to say she needs to speak to me when I get back and one from Daphne telling me to tell her all about our time in New York.

“Holy shit!” Brian sighs rubbing his face.

“What?”

“Ben’s thrown Michael out.”

“Fuck! What for?” I can’t actually believe that Ben has grown a pair to do that!

“Says it’s a misunderstanding but he is staying with the munchers for now.”

“For now? What does that mean?” I ask warily.

“Don’t know and quite frankly I don’t care…”  His kiss leaves me licking my bruised lips, he tastes so good!  “Wanna try from behind again?” My cock twitches in his hand. “Remember that we both need to adjust...”

“Shut up and turn over.”  I demand.

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE – TUESDAY MID-MORNING

KITCHEN

MICHAEL

I dunk a cookie in the milk and brush the crumbs on the floor, earning a glare from Mel. She hands me the dustpan and brush. I roll my eyes as I clean it up.

I hear Lindsay opening the front door and saying Brian’s name. Finally for fuck sake!

He comes in carrying Gus and Boy Wonder follows him, like some lap dog as usual!

“Hey Brian! Didn’t you get my messages?” I pout.

“I didn’t check my messages until last night, Michael. I had a busy weekend.”

“Too busy to come and see your sick son?” Lindsay interjects.

“He had gas Lindsay, not gastroenteritis.” Mel shakes her head. “He was fine and made you cookies Justin.”

“Yes!” Boy Wonder whoops and I curl my lip in annoyance. I had wondered why Gus didn’t want me to have any, he even took the tin with him to his room when I managed to take one.

“Brian, what am I going to do?” I try again. “I have nowhere to go and I can’t stay here with the girls…”

“Have you tried talking to Ben?” He puts Gus down but when I go to sit next to him, Mel takes the seat and he pulls Boy Wonder into his lap.

“He just won’t listen, especially with Hunter dripping poison in his ear.”

“Hunter?” Mel asks, looking confused at me and inside, I wince. “You didn’t say Hunter was back.”

“Oh great! I wonder if he’d want to help at Britin.”  Boy Wonder looks at Brian and he shrugs.

“No harm in asking. He’s got a good eye.”

“Okay, I’ll call him when we get home after we go to see mom.”

“So Hunter, who doesn’t have any vested interest in Britin, gets to help and we don’t?”  Lindsay snipes and I smirk.

“Yes, that’s exactly why he gets to help if he wants.” Boy Wonder retorts. “Who helps me in my house is my choice. And…”

“So Brian…”  I just talk over him as usual. “I was thinking that I could move into the loft with you guys, now that you have more room and…”

“No. Because we don’t have more room now Michael. Justin will have his studio in the loft below and hopefully a showcase area. There won’t be any sleeping quarters. Well I don’t think there will be?” He looks at Boy Wonder, who of course, shakes his head!

“What about the apartment above the store? Surely you can move in there temporarily until Ben cools down?” Mel asks.

“That has my inventory in it.” I point out.

“But you can put them in storage and move in there. You’re right Michael. You can’t stay here; it’s just not doable and you can’t sleep on the sofa.”

“But…”

“Michael, you’re our friend. We care for you and know you are having a tough time. But you need to find either a hotel or move to the apartment over the store, by Thursday. It’s your choice where you want to be but you can’t be here any longer than that.” Mel tells me and Lindsay nods in agreement! We will be having a talk about this!

“So how was New York?” Lindsay looks at Boy Wonder and he smiles.

Are you kidding me?! You mean we’ve done it?!

“It was great.  Even though I wasn’t happy with going, I’m going to do the show but just the one. I’m not going to do all three of them.”

“What? By why not?!” Lindsay is incredulous.

“I don’t want to. The Rathman faction understood and are fine with it. Once again, Lindsay, it is my choice what I do with my career.” He glares at her.

“And speaking of choice...  Gus, can you come here a minute?!”  Brian calls out.

“Yes daddy.” Gus comes running in.

“I need to ask you something. Remember when Jussin, I mean Justin and I were getting married and didn’t?”

“Yes daddy. I was sad about that.”

He must have been the only one!

“Well do you remember what it was you were supposed to do?”

“Yes daddy.”

“Good. Because you need to remember for when we get married in a couple of months’ time.”

You have got to be fucking kidding me!

“You asked him again?!” Lindsay gasps, when she notices I can’t actually speak. I’m too shocked.

“No, he asked me and I said yes.” Brian grins around the room.

“Oh honey, that’s fucking fantastic!” Mel squeals, embracing them both at once. “Flower girl, please let her be a flower girl?!”

“She can be a flower girl and we have to call Emmy to cater it.”  Boy Wonder grins.

“Oh for the record, twat, no golden gardenias!”

“Deal!” Boy Wonder grins then kisses him.

No way! No fucking way is this going to happen! There is no fucking way my world is going to disintegrate like this!

“By the way Michael, what happened to your tooth?” Justin asks.

Double fuck! How am I going to explain this?!

“It was loose and I managed to knock it out.”  I declare and he just shrugs...fucking shrugs.

“So since I can’t have golden gardenias, can we have an evening reception, as in the cake then, which means carbs after seven?”

I roll my eyes and wait for Brian to smack him down. He doesn’t do carbs after seven.

“The things I do for you... Okay, evening reception it is.” Brian taps him on his fat ass and he stands up. He looks at Brian and smirks before sitting back down. I want to punch him and vomit all at the same time. Where the fuck has my Brian gone?!

“Sending the text to Emmy now.  I’m not looking forward to answering the phone when he calls…”

“Why not?”  Mel looks confused and then she grins.  “Aaah, the squealing will reach epic levels.”

“Just a tad.” He giggles. He fucking giggles! So fucking annoying! And I’ve had e-fucking-nough!

Brian’s focus should be on me! In fact, everyone’s focus should be on me and my problems with Ben. Pussyboy Wonder should just be GONE since this is all his fault for surviving and sticking around in the first place!

“Well thanks again Justin. Really sensitively handled, as per usual!”  I snarl and the room blissfully goes quiet of wedding chatter.

“Michael what…?”

“My marriage is falling apart and you take great pleasure in announcing your second attempt at getting married in front of me!”

“Michael, I’m sorry that you are going through a tough time with Ben but…”  Justin begins.

“Hang on a second.”  Brian interrupts him and I feel good about it. Here comes the smackdown. You would think Justin would learn to shut the fuck up when grown people are talking. Well he’ll learn right now, won’t he? I try to hide the smile threatening to burst forth when Brian turns to me. Finally!  “Michael, Justin didn’t announce our marriage, I did.  As much as you are hurting, life for other people goes on. This is not Justin’s fault.”

What the hell?! That was so not what was supposed to happen! Again where the fuck has Brian gone? What the hell has Justin been slipping Brian for him to disregard and ignore me like this? This… this Pod person before me is someone I don’t know. He isn’t predictable anymore! HELP!

He taps Boy Wonder Fat Ass again and this time, then bends down to kiss Mel on the cheek.  Since when the fuck does he kiss Mel on the cheek?! And repeats the same action to Lindsay then walks out without a word to me.

BRIAN

As we head to the front door, I stop Justin.  “Has he always spoken to you like that?” He shrugs. “Justin? Has Michael always spoken to you like that?”

“Only when he thinks I’m taking up too much of your time…”

I blink a couple of times. “Come with me.” I take his hand and we head back to the kitchen.

“Oh so you remembered to say goodbye to me then?” Michael pouts.

“No. I’ve come to tell you that I didn’t like the way you spoke to Justin then. Cut that shit out!”

I smile at the stunned expression on Justin’s face and lead him easily back to the car.

“I can’t believe you just did that.” He still looks surprised.

“I can’t believe you didn’t tell me…”  He goes to say something. “But I can understand why you didn’t.  So in a much gentler tone, ‘cut that shit out’ and tell me when he upsets you.  How can I defend you if I don’t know that I have to?”

“Okay, shit is cut out.”  He kisses me sweetly, rests his head on my shoulder and closes his eyes.

I wait a few minutes before reaching for the tin Gus gave me.

“Don’t even think about it!”  He orders and I retract my hand with a smile.

KITCHEN

MEL

Well if that don’t beat all! I look at Lindsay and Michael.  “Isn’t that great news? Okay not great timing, considering your circumstances, but that can’t be helped.”

“You think this is a good thing?!” Lindsay has finally regained the power of speech.

“Of course! But why don’t you?” I ask.

“Didn’t you hear him? He’s going to New York…”  Michael points out.

“For one show.” I retort.

“But he needs to go for all three of them to propel his career forward.” Is her haughty response.

“For two people who are Brian’s best friends, you don’t seem very happy for him. This is the same man who arranged our marriage Lindsay and your reception Michael.  As the man said just now, cut that shit out!”

CHAPTER 11 – FULL DISCLOSURE ABOUT MICHAEL AND HAVING STREET SMARTS

JENNIFER’S CONDO – AN HOUR LATER

JUSTIN

“Mom what happened?” I look appalled at the cast on her arm.

“I jarred a couple of fingers when I smacked my hand against…”

“What?” I demand, following her into the lounge with an equally bemused Brian. We wait for her to get comfortable. “Mom?” I prompt again.

“Michael’s mouth.” She replies, grimacing.

“Mi-Michael’s mouth? Why Michael’s mouth?”  I look at Brian, who is trying not to smirk.

“And my foot connected with his testicles.”

Brian outright guffaws at this point. “What on earth for?!”

“He lied to Debs and to Ben about something he said…about you Justin.” Brian suddenly stops laughing and shifts in the seat.

“What is going on?” I look between them. “Tell me or I will speak to Ben about it. And since he’s kicked Michael out, I’m sure he will tell me. But I would rather hear it from you, please just tell me.”

“At the anniversary party he said that I should’ve left you to die, which is why I hit him.”  Brian replies quietly.

I feel like my world is tilting and it takes a minute or two for me to say something. “Thank you for telling me. An-and…” The next thing I know, I’m in Brian’s arms and he holds me while I cry. “He really hated, I mean hates me that much.”  I whimper.

“But I love you and that’s all that matters. Now, what are we going to do about it?”

“I don’t know. Does it serve a purpose to tell people what he actually said? He’s going through…”

“Oh come on! You think he wouldn’t take each and every opportunity to throw it in your face?” Mom declares. “Sorry to snap sweetheart, but really he needs to own his fucking mistakes and by saying nothing, he gets to play the victim of Ben’s overreaction.”

“How about this...”  I clear my throat and nestle a bit better into his lap. “We only say if we are asked but make it clear to him that I know.” They both nod. “And I don’t want him in any of our homes when I’m there.”

“Agreed.” Brian is doing the soothing thing with my hair and I can feel myself relaxing.

“Now enough about that nefarious nutjob! What happened in New York?” Mom smirks.

By the time we’ve finished telling her about New York, I feel better. Ruth gets out of the car and gapes at mom as she comes to say hello. “What the fuck? I mean…”

“Long story…”  She smiles at her.

“How are you coping?” She demands.

“Luckily, I’m not too busy this week so work is not an issue.”

“But everything else is, correct?” She starts to pull out her phone. “It’s Ruth. Do we, I mean you, have the suite free for the next two weeks or so?” She nods and then hangs up. “You need me help you pack?”

I was about to say something when my phone goes and its Emmy. I hold it away from my ear as the squeal is heard by almost the entire street! “Where are you?!  Where are you right this second?!” He shouts.

“At my mom’s!” I laugh and we head back in the house as Ruth goes to pick him up.

An hour later, Ruth is back and Emmy is packing for my mom. Brian is just shaking his head and smiling.

EMMY

I can’t believe Baby proposed! I am so happy for them! I’m dying to ask what happened to Jennifer’s wrist but quite frankly, I am too excited about the wedding to find out.

“Now where are we going?” I ask Ruth as I stretch out along the seat.

“Oh, that’s what I meant to ask…” Baby begins.

“A friend of mine has a B&B that Jennifer can stay in and be looked after.” Ruth answers.

“Same person who you’re sitting for?” Brian asks and she nods.

As we drive along, I realise we are coming out of the city. “Oh wow Two Lakes is beautiful.” I sigh. “I’ve always wanted to…” I can’t speak as we pull up in front of what can only be described as a castle.

“Jesus!” Baby whispers as he stares and then looks at Brian. “Please? Brian, can we please?”

“What’s this place called?” Jennifer asks. “So peaceful and gorgeous.”

“Heavenly Retreats. There’s one in New York too. And what is he asking you?” She looks between the two of them.

“Here?” I gasp. “You want to get married here?!”

“We stayed in the one in New York.” Brian appraises the building. “It was beautiful but not as beautiful as this one. Okay, here it is.”

He finds his arms full of Justin and it takes a couple of firm throat clears from Jennifer to get Justin’s attention!

“Good afternoon my name is Greg and you must be Jennifer?” She nods. “Well, can you come with me ma’am and I’ll get you settled.”

“Wait! My slippers!” I cry out and swiftly take them off and follow.

JENNIFER’S SUITE

JENNIFER

Utterly beautiful. “How much is this going to be?” I turn to Greg.

“Mother Taylor, don’t worry about it. You’re staying here that’s the end of it. Greg, can you make sure that all charges for this room are to this card?” Brian tells me imperiously. I should be used to his way by now. It’s still hard sometimes.

“Of course, sir. If you could follow me so the pre-approval can be processed.”

As they both leave, Justin is looking out of the window and I know he’s dwelling about Michael.

“Sweetheart?” He turns to look at me with a small smile. “So when were you going to tell me about you getting married?”

“Oh mom! Sorry!” He cries.

“Now come on. What’s got you so sad, Justin?” Emmy asks, wrapping his arms around him. Justin looks at me and I nod. We agreed that if he was asked, he’d speak the truth about Michael’s meanness and idiocy.

“HE SAID WHAT?!” Emmy shouts and stalks towards the door, only stopping when Justin calls him back. “Do you know the shit Brian went through because of that?!”

“Emmy please. Brian is going to speak to him... well I think he is, but I need to concentrate on happier things, like fixing Britin up and that reminds me!” He grabs his phone and makes a call. “Hi, Ben, it’s Justin. I’m great. Is Hunter there? Hey, you busy right now? I have a favour to ask about Britin. As in will you help me sort it out?  You will? Oh great! Actually, what are you guys doing right now? Hang on a sec…Emmy, can you find Ruth for me please?” He nods and heads out of the room. “We’re going to send Ruth to pick you up. You need to see where we’re going to get married. Ouch! Fuck Hunter! That was my eardrum.  Okay, see you soon.”

Brian comes in with Ruth and Justin catches them both up and grinning as she heads out.

BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE – 40 MINUTES LATER

HUNTER

Dad has told me about Ruth and how she house and dog sits for a friend and is a chauffeur.  But when I meet her, the first thing I think is bullshit! I call bullshit. As much as I love my dad, he is completely clueless about looking at the true person. He married the idiot after all.

She’s wearing a classic Rolex man’s watch and diamond earrings. There is no way in fuck that you get to have them as a house and dog sitter and a chauffeur! As we get in the car, dad is engulfed by two French Bulldogs.

“Okay down! For the love of heaven, down! Ruth help!” He laughs as he is licked and slobbered over.

“Sit!” She orders and their asses are down instantly. The one thing that dogs know is who the leader of the pack is. And she is the leader. A dog sitter is not a leader! Naturally, they follow us up to Jennifer’s suite.

JENNIFER’S SUITE

BRIAN

Ben is incredulous and just stares at me. “Married and he proposed?”

“Yep.” I laugh.

“Does Michael know?” He asks warily.

“Yeah. He bitched about Justin being insensitive about announcing it when he’s going through so much trauma. He completely forgets it was all his own doing. But enough about the... what did you call him Mother Taylor? Oh wait, nefarious nutjob. Mel begged for JR to be a flower girl.”

“She’s not even walking yet!” Jennifer laughs. “How the hell is she going to hold the basket?”

There is a knock at the door and Greg comes in. “Do you guys want to order food here or in the restaurant?”

“Definitely here!” Justin wiggles in his seat, which is a little unfortunate as he’s sitting in my lap. I have to move him!

“Go sit over there.” I order and he smirks as he sashays to his seat.

“Have you told Daph yet?” Emmy asks.

“Oh shit!” Justin leaps up and makes the call. She screams louder than Emmy and insists we come see her next weekend.

Hunter is hunting in his bag for something. “You okay?” Ben asks.

“I don’t have one of my pills.” He explains. “I should be fine though as long as I have it by seven but it needs to be taken with food.”

“Wait a second, I’ll be back.” Greg tells us and ten minutes later, he’s back with Ruth and after explaining the situation, she looks at her watch and leaves. We look at each other in confusion before she comes back in 15 minutes in full leathers.

“You trust me?” She asks and Ben nods. “Okay, need your keys and to know where your pills are.”

“Oh fuck that!” Hunter stands up. “You need to get another helmet!”

BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE – 30 MINUTES LATER

HUNTER

That was the most awesome thing I have ever done! Okay, I held on for dear life and kept my eyes closed for most of it but it was so cool!

She waits in the corridor while I get my pills and when I come down, she is texting on the latest iPhone!

“Okay, what’s your deal?” I ask and she looks up at me but says nothing. “I was a hustler so I know who is a good guy or a bad guy. You’re a good guy but I don’t understand why you are lying about who you are.”

“I’m not lying. My name is Ruth and…”

“Who’s your friend?” I try another tact. “The one you sit for?”

She regards me for a while before sticking out her hand. “My name is Ruth Masterson and I own Heavenly Retreats and AngelCars.”

“And…”

“I’ve known Brian for years. We only just reconnected, as in being in the same place. And I really, really don’t like your other dad.”

“I don’t think he was ever really my dad. I think he went along with it because it was what Ben wanted.” I sit down on the stairs. “And after the bombing when he got to speak and be the big I am, he got all swell headed as Emmy says. That’s why I had to leave.”

“And now?” She sits down next to me.

“I’m glad that they have split up but I’m afraid that dad will retreat and become hermit, like because, all he’s known is him. And…”

“He’s worn him down?”

“Yeah.” I sigh. “He can fight back when I’m here but…”

“Hunter, one of the things you need to do when we get back, actually two, is not mention that you’ve worked me out to anyone else and ask Justin or Brian about that tooth.”

“Tooth?” I look at her.

“Yeah tooth. Now come on, we’ve got to get you back and fed.”

I don’t normally trust people like that. But there is just something about Ruth that makes me think she’s going to make everything be okay.

CHAPTER 12 – FULL DISCLOSURE ABOUT RUTH AND HUNTER…AND MEL ASKS QUESTIONS

OUTSIDE BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE

RUTH

I watch him close the door with a look of regret. Seems that I’m not the only one with a deal!

“Who the fuck it is this?!” I hear a shrill tone and keep my helmet on as his other dad confronts Hunter. “We’re not out of the house 2 minutes and already you’re shipping in your hustler friends!”

Holy mother of God! What a dickweed!

“Wait until Ben hears about this! You will be fucking gone, you insect! Ben will listen to me!”

I’m tempted to jump in but he needs to do this himself and I pray he doesn’t buy into shouting back. “No he won’t.” He replies. “I will do everything in my power to make sure that you remain gone.  Remember that he called you Mr Novotny, not me.”

“Hunter!” A voice calls out and I turn around. “Hunter, is everything okay?”

“Eli?! Uh hi…”  Hunter looks surprised.

“Eli, can you believe this?!  He has…”  Dickweed begins.

“Michael be quiet! I am speaking to Hunter! Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I had to come back for a…something and…”

“You get on your way Hunter. I’ll deal with this. So great to see you! You are looking very well and we’ve missed you.”

Ah that’s the deal!

ELI

I watch Hunter get on the back of the bike and roar off to where he’s going then turn to Michael.

“Wow! Insect, you called your son an insect? How could you? Get out of the Avenue Michael! We know the real you now.”

“Eli, you don’t know as much as you think. I’m not sure what…”

“I know you called your son an insect and that’s all I need to know. If you have not gone in the next minute, I shall call the police.”

He regards me coldly for a few seconds before he stalks towards the main street and I wait until he gets into a cab. As I head back to my house, something feels off and I wait at the door. Sure enough a cab pulls up five minutes later. He gets out and then sits outside their door. After another 20 minutes, a locksmith drives up. I’m out of the door in seconds, calling the police at the same time.

“Excuse me! Excuse me! What is happening here?!” I shout. “Police, yes I need someone here immediately. There is an attempted breaking and entering in progress!”

“Hey! Hey! No breaking and entering! Just opening up the locks as his key got jammed!” The locksmith protests.

“No, that’s a fucking lie!” I shout and stand in front of the door. “The police are on their way!”

Within 5 minutes, two squad cars pull up and an officer gets out. “Okay someone want to tell me what the hell is going on here?!” And I have no problem telling him what I know so far. Of course, Mr. Insect pleads his case as well. God, what a creative liar he is! He makes himself sound so innocent! The officer asks the locksmith to see which one of our stories is actually the case.

The locksmith checks the lock and confirms that there is no key in there. Within minutes, Michael is in the back of the squad car. While the scowl is firmly planted on his face and his whine blaring at full blast, I’m on the phone to Ben.

As morning’s go, it has been very eventful!

HEAVENLY RETREATS – AN HOUR LATER

JENNIFER’S SUITE

BEN

I sigh as I hang up.  “I just can’t believe he did that.” I feel my throat start to clog.

“Ben? What’s happened?” Emmy asks, coming to sit by my side.

“Michael tried to get into the house by getting the locks changed while we were out.”

The room explodes in fury.

“Are you fucking kidding me?!” Emmy shouts. “Where is he now?!”

“Last time he was seen he was in the back of a squad car.” I mutter.

Hunter takes that moment to come in and he looks a little red eyed. “Hunter? Hunter what’s wrong?!”

“Insect. He called me an insect.”  He whispers as he leans against the closed door.

“Who did?” Brian, of all people, is at his side in seconds and takes him to the couch. “Who called you that?!”  He growls.

“Michael.”

The door knocking again heralds the arrival of Ruth. “How you doing, sweetheart?” She looks Hunter and then at Frick and Frack. “Give him some love.”

We watch incredulously as Frack settles in his lap and Frick goes to get his squeaky toy, placing it gently next to him. I can’t help the tears that slide down my face and Emmy is handing me tissues.

“As dog sitters go, you have them well trained.” Justin is only pouting a little because Frack was in his lap before.

“You have to tell him.” The firmness of Ruth voice silences the room.

“You first.” Hunter wipes his cheeks.

“No sweetheart, you first. I promise I will tell but you need to do this.”

“Hunter?” I look at him. “Just tell me. Whatever it is, we will deal with it.”

“I wan…I want to come home.” He looks so scared.

“What? That’s it? You’ve not gotten sicker or anything?” I demand, swallowing down the nausea.

“No. It’s just that…I like school, don’t get me wrong. But I miss…here.  I miss you.  I have friends but it’s not the same. I want to come home.”

“Then come home! Come home, son! Why the hell didn’t you tell us earlier? We would’ve…”

“No, you wouldn’t! You wouldn’t have let me come home because he wouldn’t have let me come home.” Hunter’s normally strong voice is quiet and full of hurt. “And you would’ve agreed.”

I look at the floor full of shame. “You’re right. I would’ve agreed and for that I’m sorry. But you’re home now and that’s all that matters.”

“Wait a second! You said, I promise I will tell but you need to do this.”  Emmy turns to Ruth.

“You done, doll?” She looks at Hunter and he nods.

RUTH

“Justin, please do not get mad this was my idea. My name is Ruth Masterson and I own both Heavenly Retreats in New York and Pittsburgh as well as AngelCars. I have known Brian since I was seven years old.”

“Okay, so why would I be mad about that?” Justin looks confused.

“You know he has a friend in New York he’s very close to. Well that would be me….” As I explain our ruse, I can see Justin getting more and more pissed off. When he stands up in a full snit, I have had enough.

“So you lied to me!” He yells at Brian.

“No! He didn’t lie! It was my idea and besides, how’s your writer friend? You know the one that was having all those problems with her fiancé? Did you think I didn’t know it was you that you were talking about?!” He closes his mouth and sits down. “And look how that worked out. Someone kicking some sense into your ass got what you wanted…Brian!”

“Why? Why did you come up with this?”

“Nobody tends to notice the help and from personal experience, there was no way I was going to let him go through that. The man adores the bones of you and was gutted when you agreed to cancel the wedding. He wanted you to fight and you didn’t!  Neither of you did!”

This time Justin looks at me carefully. “What happened?” He asks quietly.

“Oh I was great as a filler between princesses but when he proposed all of a sudden, I wasn’t good enough. Bit by bit, they wore him down until he dumped me and married what they wanted. One even said I would be perfect if I was a bit lighter. He was divorced within 5 years. And his friends sided with her so now he’s completely alone.”

“Jesus.” Brian sighs and then get up and smacks Ruth on her arm. “You should’ve told me!”

“Life went on and look what I have now.” She shrugs. “I poured my heartache into my businesses.” She turns to look at a teary eyed Justin. “Sweetheart, he just wanted to know how you felt and you weren’t telling him; the same goes for you Brian. You guys are starting to talk to each other without listening to anyone else. Keep it going and it will be fine…”

“Brian, in front of one of the people who means the most to you, one who cares and loves you enough to do this, I want to ask... Will you Brian Aiden Kinney marry me Justin Cole Taylor?”

“Yes, Justin Cole Taylor, I Brian Aiden Kinney will marry you.”

“Shit!” Hunter exclaims. “We need champagne!”

Greg takes that moment to come in with the food. “Honey, can you get the appointment book? We have a wedding to book in?” Ruth grins and Emmy claps his hands.

“So in a couple of months over a weekend, because you have Britin to fix up, correct?”  Emmy asks.

“Yeah.” Brian smirks as Justin retrieves Frack from Hunter’s lap and pokes his tongue out at him.

“Hunter, do you have a licence?” Ruth asks, helping Emmy plate up food.

“Oh yeah. Why?” Hunter reaches for a wing.

“We need a driver…”  She lets the sentence hang and winks at me.

It takes a minute or two for Hunter to cotton on. “What!  Seriously?!  You’d let me drive one of those beauties!”

“And the bike. What we do here at Heavenly Retreats is have a concierge go to the guests’ homes, a couple of days before, to confirm what they’ve asked for is what they want. The bike is quicker when zipping from appointment to appointment as you can imagine. And it’s a concept that’s worked well in New York…”

“Wait. Can I…?” Justin looks eagerly at Brian.

“No!” He and Jennifer say at the same time and laugh while he snorts in annoyance.

“He can go around the grounds.” Ruth suggests. “I have a BMW K1600GT that feels incredible throbbing between your legs.”

“Keys!” Brian growls, taking Frack out of Justin’s lap and pulling him to his feet.

“Go see Greg and he’ll get it for you.” Ruth chuckles.

GREG

I look around the grounds and can’t see let alone hear the BMW roaring around. I head back to the garage and see the bike. Then see them in the back of the Daimler and grimace.  Ruth is going to go mad if they are doing what I think they are doing in there. I approach slowly and ready to interrupt but there is nothing to interrupt... well nothing like that! They are just kissing.  And talking between kissing.  I make my way back to reception grinning.

57TH PRECINCT – 2 HOURS LATER

MEL

I’m heading to the interview room full of confusion. I don’t understand why Michael was arrested. I step into the room and Michael looks up tearfully at me. “What the hell happened?”  I ask and sit down.

“Eli had me arrested!” He snaps. “It had nothing to fucking do with him!”

“What didn’t have anything to do with him?” I ask him before reaching for the paper in front of me. “Is this the statement?” The officer nods and I start to read. “A moment with my client, please.”  He nods again and he leaves.

“Mel, what am I going to do?!”

“Well first, you are going to tell me why you called Hunter an insect and why you had a locksmith at the house?”

Silence, nothing but silence.

“Michael you tell me what the fuck happened and honestly or you can get another lawyer!”

CHAPTER 13 – HIS VERSION OF THE TRUTH AND THEY SEE REALITY

INTERVIEW ROOM

MICHAEL

Shit! I had no idea that Eli had made a statement that Mel would see! “Can you show that to me?”

“No. Start talking!” She sits back, taking the statement out of reach.

“Okay, I did call him that but I was so upset over what he was doing. He had his hustler friend over there and they had clearly just finished doing something. I wanted to go inside and check what he’d done but he took off with his friend; Eli wasn’t listening to me. Eli just over reacted…”

“But why was the locksmith called?”

“I didn’t want Hunter to get back in to mess up the house and to collect some things.”

“Why would Hunter mess up the house?” She demands.

“I don’t know. But he’s not explained why he’s come home and he got to Ben before I could ask him.”

“How did he get to Ben? You’re not making sense. I thought you were out of the house before Hunter turned up.”

Fuck!

“No, I wasn’t. But then the longer he stayed, the worse Ben treated me.”

“Okay. Right, what I need to do is speak to Hunter and Ben about them pressing charges.”

“What do you mean?” I demand, my heart sinking. I thought I could just leave.

“Attempted breaking and entering is a felony. And according to the police, they believe that’s what you did. Right come on, hopefully we can get the bail set this evening.”

Bail?!

HEAVENLY RETREATS, JENNIFER’S SUITE – SAME TIME

JENNIFER

I can’t help the smile on my face. Brian and Justin came back a couple of hours ago and have been dozing on the sofa ever since. They look so at peace now. I signal Emmett and we get the blanket from the bedroom and cover them. They don’t even stir.

Ruth jerks her head and we make our way out of the room. I pray that they don’t do what they did a few months ago. No mother wants to see her son doing that! Especially when he was biting on one of her brand new silks cushions in an effort to keep quiet!

BAR

“So Ruth, can you show me where they will get married?” I ask and Emmett is practically hopping up and down.

“Yeah.” She grabs her pad and shows us the grounds. “I think they would like this. It’s quiet right at the back and then they can have the reception in the garden with a marquee. It should be warm enough.”

“Hey Ruth.” I turn round to the sound of a rich deep voice and just stare.

“Sweets! How you doing?!” She squeals and pulls him into a hug. “When the hell did you get home?!”

“A couple of days back.” He looks around the group. “So who do we have here? Specifically, right here?” He asks, smiling at me and I go red.

“Jennifer, this is Tucker. Tucker, this is Jennifer.”

“Ben? Is that you?” We all turn around again.

“Carmine?” Ben smiles but not as much as Hunter does, who actually does a double take.

Ruth and Emmett exchange looks and giggle. “What’s so funny?” Ben asks.

“Come to the bar and I’ll explain.” She takes one arm and Emmett takes the other.

“So what happened to your arm?” Tucker asks, helping me into a seat.

“I smacked into something very hard and but inconsequential. Unfortunately, this was the result.”

“And you came out on the winning side?” He smiles when I nod and I smile back.  “Good to know, I like the look of the winning side.”

I can’t think of a thing to say except a polite and embarrassed thank you.

DEBS & CARL’S HOUSE – LATE EVENING

BEDROOM

DEBS

Where is he?! I’ve done nothing to but check my phone and the street for signs of life.  Please now that I’ve pulled my head out of my ass, don’t let anything have happened to him!

The front door opening has me rushing down the stairs. “Where have you been?! I’ve been worried sick!” I pull him into my arms and check him at the same time.

“Sorry honey, I should have called but I had a couple of idiots to deal with.  Then I heard about Michael.” He tells me.

“What about him?” I sit down slowly

“He got himself arrested and I had to find out everything before I told you. He turned up at his former marital home and tried to get the locks changed. Before that, he was insulting to Hunter.”

“Hunter? Locks changed? I don’t understand.” I stammer.

“Ben and Hunter, not sure which, had the locks changed. Michael called a locksmith to get in by claiming he had jammed his key in the lock. But there was no key in there, so he was arrested. He’s been granted bail, which Mel paid for him.” He clears his throat and sits down taking my hand. “He has to pay that back to her. I can’t begin to tell you how…”

“Oh God, Carl no! I’ve helped him enough. He’s on his own! Now come on, let me make you some hot milk and you can tell me about the other idiots you have to deal with.”

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE

BEDROOM

LINDSAY

I just don’t understand! “Why didn’t he call Brian?! He has the money as you keep pointing out!” I hiss at Mel.

“He never said and I never asked…”

“Well, why didn’t you call Brian?!”

“Because I wasn’t the one in fucking trouble, remember?! Besides I couldn’t leave him there, could I?!” She hisses back.

“How much was it? His bail, I mean?”

“$2500.” She replies and I gasp, not because of the amount of the bail but that she had that amount of money on hand in the first place! “And before you say anything, he’s promised to pay it back tomorrow.”

“How?” I demand.

“Again, didn’t say and didn’t ask but I will get it back no matter how much he tries to get out of it!” She growls before reaching over and snapping off the light, leaving me sitting in the dark.

NEXT MORNING

MEL

I head downstairs and sigh. I know that he’s having problems but I can’t stand the mess that he leaves in his wake. I stalk over, pull back the quilt and shake his shoulder.

“Wh-what is it?” He mumbles.

“Come on. Get up, tidy up and go use the bathroom. We need to speak to Ben and Hunter.  And you need to give me my money back.” I order, brusquely.

“Why do we need to speak to them?” He mutters, pulling the quilt back over his head.

“To get them to drop the charges, of course! And you need to go the bank!”

He stares at me for a few long seconds before getting up and heading upstairs.

“Hey Michael, how you feeling?” I hear Lindsay ask. I don’t bother to listen to his response.

“Mel?” Lindsay calls out.

“Dining room.” I call back and start to gather my papers.

“Mel, without blowing up... where did the money from Michael’s bail come from?”

“My savings. Where did you think it came from?” I flick through the papers and then get them in order.

“So you’ve been keeping money from me?!” She whispers harshly.

“No! I’ve always had those savings and well you know it. But this was an emergency and before you ask, yes there is more in there but no, I am not using it to support us because of your fuck up.”

I grab my briefcase and shout up to Michael to hurry up!

LINDSAY

It takes another 30 minutes for Mel and Michael to leave and I’m still seething. I grab my phone and stomp to the window then wait for the call to be connected.

“May I speak to Brian please? It’s Lindsay Peterson.” I wait for what feels like 10 minutes and am about to hang up when she finally connects me to him. “Brian hi…oh Justin?! I’d like to speak to Brian please? In a meeting? Do you know how long he will be? All morning, well can you give him a message to call me back? Thank…”   I stare at the phone as he hangs up before I could finish. Well I’m not having that!

I send a carefully worded text to Brian and wait. True to form, he responds. I smile smugly and then my face falls as I read what it says… He’s still in a meeting Lindsay, I’ll make sure he reads your previous missive immediately. Yours Justin.

Missive!  Fucking missive?!

BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE

LOUNGE

HUNTER

I am so happy, I can come home!  I had a great evening and have printed out the transfer forms.  Dad has gone for his jog and it’s time for me to have a nice shower.  Half an hour later, I come downstairs and make myself some breakfast. I had sent Ruth a text about my temporary job and we’re going to be meeting later. I go back to completing the forms and get lost in my happiness at being able to come home!

Two hours later, everything is done and dad comes back in holding a piece of paper. “Have you been out?”

“No, been sorting out the papers. Why?” He hands me the paper and it’s from Mel, asking us to contact them with regards to the charges levied against Michael.

“What do you want to do?” Dad sits down. “Taking out the emotional side of it, what do you want to do?”

I sigh and sit down to think. “This could ruin everything for him, couldn’t it?”  Dad nods. “But I don’t think he should get away with what he tried to do. If he had gotten in, then you can bet that we would be out. And you can bet anything that he would press charges if it was the other way round. So yeah I do, I do want to press charges. What I don’t understand is why Mel is helping him.”

“Neither do I. But let me get… Oh for fuck sake!  I know why Mel is helping him!  He’s most probably lied!  Again! Okay, we have to go the station and make it official. Then we go and see Mel and Lindsay.”

KINNETIC – AN HOUR LATER

MEL

We haven’t got very far today. Ben and Hunter were out when we called round and Michael has only given me $500 of the money he owes me. And even that was like getting blood out of a stone!  But as loathed as I am to do this, we’re here to speak with Brian. I need to have that money back.

“Oh, this is ridiculous!” Michael gripes as the receptionist heads somewhere else. “Come on, I know the way!”

“Of course you do.”  I mutter as I follow him, still in awe at what Brian’s accomplished

Suddenly I recognise the paintings, especially the one outside Brian’s office. They are all mostly Justin’s!

I can’t understand why Michael has come to a stop...  And then I hear the groan.  I look across the room and Brian and Justin are on the sofa. While I’ve seen Brian in all his glory, I’ve never seen Justin. And my, oh my, has he been blessed!  They are locked onto each other’s eyes and I watch incredulously as Brian lowers himself down, while biting his lip. They kiss passionately before Brian sits back up and starts to ride that cock horse to Banbury Cross!

I’ve seen enough and before Michael can say anything, I pull him out of the office and push him in front of me, closing the door quietly.

“Michael, what are you doing here?” Ted calls out but Michael doesn’t respond. “Mel, what’s happened?”

“Michael needed to speak to Brian but he was otherwise engaged.”  I chuckle.

Ted rolls his eyes with a smile. “Yes, Justin has been here most of the day.  Don’t think I’ve ever seen a pitch wrapped up so quickly!”

“Why?” Michael suddenly asks.

“Because he’s the head of the Art Department and owns 50% of the business.” Ted explains with a frown before his watch beeps. “Well excuse me, I have another meeting.  See you on Sunday.”

“Wait Ted, what’s happening on Sunday?”  I call out.

“Usual dinner at Debs and Carl’s, remember?” He calls back and is gone.

“When the fuck did that shit happen?!”  Michael snaps storming out.

MEL & LINDSAY’S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING

LINDSAY

It has been a long fucking day! Gus has been a bit of brat but mercifully, JR was with her grandmother. After I managed to persuade Debs to take her, that is. She’s on her way back now and Brian finally called me back and said they will come over after work.

I was supposed to do dinner but I’ve ordered take-out. I’m so tired but determined to speak to Brian alone! Michael has been sitting on the sofa in some kind of a stupor and I can’t seem to get him to speak.

“Mel, can you get that please?!”  I call out.

“No. Again, I’m busy prepping for tomorrow! Get Michael to do it. He’s done nothing but sit on the sofa since he’s got back!”

Michael stumbles to the door and finds his arms full of JR, who is screaming the place down.  Oh great!  Just what I fucking need!

“She needs changing!” Debs shouts over the din. “See you guys later!”

“Debs!” I rush to the door and she stops.  Can you…”

“No, I can’t look after her for you. I’ve got extra shifts to cover. And now a couch to scrub!”  She laughs. “She takes after her father, carrots go straight through her!”

“Ma!” Michael calls out. “I need to talk to you about…”

“And the answer will be no to that too!” She retorts sharply before stopping to sweep a surprised Hunter into a hug and a cheek smacking kiss. “Honey, you and I need to have a chat. Come round for dinner on Sunday you two, no arguing!”

Hunter looks like he’s blinking back tears as he just nods and follows Ben inside.

Just as I was about to close the door, I see the Daimler pull up and Brian and Justin get out. They both give Ruth a hug and she gets back in the car and drives off.

What’s going on there?

It seems that everything is arriving at once as the take-out guy arrives next. I take my time going for my purse until the guy gets a bit antsy. Grumbling, I pay him and shut the door firmly.

“Well there’s a lot more people than I expected for dinner.”   I sigh.

“We’re not staying for food.”  Ben tells me but there’s something sharp about his tone.

“Did you get something in the mail Ben?” Michael snarks.

“Yes an interesting note was hand delivered, while Hunter was sorting out his transfer forms…”

“Transfer forms?”  Michael looks confused.

“None of your concern.  But this is your concern.  Yes Michael, we will be pressing charges against you.”

“WHAT?!”  Michael explodes and of course that wakes up JR much to Mel’s annoyance.

“Lindsay, can you deal with her please?”

“Why can’t you do it?” I demand.

“Fine, you can explain the legal intricacies to Michael then.”  She stares balefully at me.

I head upstairs swallowing down the bile of annoyance!

MEL

“Guys, I don’t understand why you are doing this?”  I say wearily.

“What exactly did Michael tell you happened when he tried to get into the house? Actually, let me try that again... what did Michael tell you he said at the party?” Ben asks, glaring at Michael, who turns tearfully to him.

“Ben, please don’t do this? It will ruin everything for me.”

“Mel, what did he tell you happened?” Ben repeats.

“He told me that Hunter had some friends over and he wanted to make sure that he wasn’t using the house for something bad. And to collect some things.”  I reply.

“And the party?” He keeps pressing this. Why?

“He never said.” I admit. “I did ask him at the time, but he said that Brian just over reacted to something he said.   But they made up fairly…”

“Ask him now?” Ben demands.

“So, shall we eat now? I don’t know about anyone else but I’m starving.”  Lindsay swans in.

“Mel, can you ask him?”  He tries again.

“Whoa big guy.”  Brian interjects and Ben seems to relax a bit, much to my surprise. “Michael, what Ben is trying to point out to you is that Justin knows what you said.”

“How?” His voice is sharp and glares at Ben.  Tears have gone I notice!

“I told him.”  Brian replies squeezing Justin’s hand.

“Okay stop this. Will someone just tell me what Michael said?!”  I snap.

“Brian should’ve left me to die after the prom.” Justin answers.

“ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?!”  I yell, standing up striding across the room and slapping Michael hard across the face. “Out!  Out of my fucking house NOW!”

He clutches his cheek and gasps in shock.

“Mel!” Lindsay shrieks. “While I don’t condone what Michael said, he’s still our… oh who the fuck is it this time?!”

“We’ll get it on our way out!” Hunter snarls, clearly he hadn’t been told this either. “I can’t bear to be in the same room as him!”

“Guys!  Let me at least call Ruth or Carmine please?!” Justin calls out. They stop and Ben looks at Hunter, who nods. “Go and sit in the kitchen until she comes, yeah?”

“Justin, could you get the door please?” Lindsay sits down, looking pale.

“No. You get it; it’s your house.” Justin retorts and settles back down next to Brian.

“I’ll get it!” I snap as the doorbell goes again.

MICHAEL

I look across at them. “So how long is this going to last?” I ask quietly rubbing my cheek.

“What are you talking about now, Michael?” Brian sighs as Boy Wonder checks his phone.

Since when does he sigh when I speak?

“You two.”

“As long as we want it to.” Brian replies before looking over Boy Wonder’s shoulder.  “No absolutely not! I am not doing that.”

“But…” He pouts.

“No.”

“Trouble in paradise.” I snicker.

“Yes, but in a nice way. He wants to try a tantric massage and I’m putting up a very small fight…”

“Really?!  We can do this?”

“Of course we can! It’s an erotic massage for fuck sake!”

“Erotic massages, getting married, whatever will you do next? Do it raw?”  I can't keep the bitterness out of my voice.

“Raw?!” Lindsay gasps. “Brian would never do that!”

“Why not?”  Brian asks her.

“Because it goes against everything you’ve championed!”  I point out

“People change.”  Brian replies.

“As you noticed when you stood gaping at the door with Mel earlier.”  Boy Wonder glares at me.   “Watching him bottom from the top must have hurt but watching him do it raw and with me must have ripped your guts.”

I knew there was something off about that!  Raw!!

“What? What on earth are you talking about?” Lindsay bristles.

“You were in my office and you watched us?!” Brian snarls at me. “You aren’t allowed in my office, Michael! How many fucking times do I need to tell you that?!”

“I needed to talk to you!” I protest and want to punch Boy Wonder as hard as Brian hit me at the party.

“Lindsay? It’s Sidney and he wants to talk to you.”  Mel says as she opens the door.

“Sidney! How are you?” She smiles and gets up to greet him.

“Furious!” He snaps. “Justin, I am so sorry about this but I got curious about the Rathman Showing and looked through the paperwork. You did sign the submission form…”

“I believe you said you didn’t do that?” I taunt Boy Wonder. Not a flicker from Brian. Seriously?! What the fuck is going on here?!

“Excuse me, sir whomever you are, let me finish! While he signed it, he also crossed it through afterwards. Making the contract null and void. Someone then took the form and amended it. And that someone could only have been you, Lindsay.”

“Why would you do that?”  Mel asks.

Lindsay looks horrified. “I didn’t do this!” She asserts. “Now Sidney…”

“Lindsay. You did do this!  We are the only people who have access to the contracts.  And for that, I have no other choice but to fire you. You have committed an egregious act of dereliction of duty and gross moral misconduct by submitting an artist’s work without his permission. That’s why we have contracts! Do not ask for a reference; you won’t get one. Good night all.”

MEL

I look at my wife and the father of my child and all I feel is revulsion. For what he said and for what she did, the purpose was the same… to hurt Brian, who is supposed to be their best friend.  Michael’s always had a problem with Justin but to say that.  And Lindsay can dress it up as much as she want saying she was helping his career, I know her.  And because of her entrenched bitchiness and jealousy she’s been fired; all because she tried and ultimately failed to get Justin to leave him!

“Get out.” I sigh and everyone turns to look at me. “I need space and I can’t have that with the two of you in here.”

“Mel, who are you talking to?” Justin asks.

“Michael and Lindsay. Get out of my house. Get out of my house now!  I can’t bear the sight of you.  GET THE FUCK OUT!”

“Mel?!” They both shout back.

“I want you both gone. Lindsay, I shall start to pack for you!  And by pack I mean I shall start throwing your things down the stairs!”

“You wouldn’t dare!” She unwisely challenges me.

“Watch me and get ready to catch!” I run up the stairs and it’s only when her suitcase hits the wall, she realises just how serious I am!

CHAPTER 14 – THE PAST IS THE PAST THE TIME IS NOW

TWENTY MINUTES LATER

LINDSAY

I am picking up my things. She seems to have calmed down a bit but is still blocking me from going upstairs to say goodbye to Gus and JR.

“Mel please!” I plead tearfully but she just stares coldly at me.  

There’s a beeping at the door and Ben and Hunter come out of the kitchen. “Can you give me a lift? Mel and I are having difficulties at the minute.” I beg them.

“No guys, don’t do that.” Justin comes out. “Just go and we’ll explain tomorrow.” He turns to me, “Be grateful that Brian is the father of Gus because believe me, I would be suing you!”  

“Justin…” I begin.

“No, shut up! I don’t want to hear it right now!”

“Where are we going to go?” Michael whines, still rubbing his cheek. Mel’s handprint is slowly fading.

“Get out before I call the police!”  Mel snarls.

“And as for you Michael, you are banned from Kinnetic!” Justin declares heatedly.  

“You can’t do that!” He yells, looking at Brian.

“In fact, you are both banned!”

“Brian! You can’t let him…”  I protest.

“As co-owner, he can and I will. I think it’s an excellent idea.”

“Co-owner?” I echo incredulously. “When…?”

“Hello police, this is Melanie Marcus. I have two people who won't leave my property. Can you send someone around to help them to leave? I have two children under five in the home.  Yes the address is...”

“For God sake, Mel!” I wail. “There’s no need for that... we’re leaving! Michael, come on. Let's let them cool off then we can speak rationally.”

Mel scoffs before pointing at the door. “The only irrational people are you two!  And if you try to come back before I say so, I will have you arrested! You and Michael can have the same charge! Now fuck off!”

As soon as we step outside the door, it is slammed shut and locked.

LOUNGE

MEL

We exchange stunned looks. “I can't believe Lindsay was so determined that she did that.”  Justin looks so sad. “Was she ever my friend?”

“I don't honestly know. But I am.” I give his hand a squeeze and there’s another beep. I frown but then realise, it’s most likely Ruth. I look out the window and it is, I unlock the door and call her in.

“Hey guys, any of those cook...what’s wrong?” She asks, looking around.

When she’s caught up, she shakes her head. I am truly stunned when she tells me who she is to Brian and what she did.

“There is one thing I haven't told you guys. I think I might be the reason she got suspended.”

“What?!” I stand up but she holds up a hand.

“Mel, did Lindsay ever tell you about meeting Michael at Bloom?”

“No.” Then it hits me... they were in it together! “Oh my lord. Just tell me.” I sigh and when she’s finished I can feel the headache pounding.

“How did you overhear that?” Justin looks at her in awe.  

“I was outside one of the meeting rooms. Had to pick her up and she was running late. In the car, she told me to put the partition up but I left the intercom on and sent Miles Stanhope a warning email. I didn’t…”

“This is not your fault. If they hadn’t done what they did, you wouldn’t have to have done what you did.” I sigh and rub the back of my neck. “Shit and double shit!” I exclaim.

“What?” Ruth asks, making a call at the same time.

“WASP revenge. I bet you anything she will use Gus against me!  Against us!”  I sigh heavily.

“How? Isn’t this her child? What possible benefit does that have?”

“Although currently unemployed, she will simply refuse to look after Gus until I come around to her way of thinking. And of course, there’s the money that Michael owes me. He won’t pay.”

“I’ll pay you back, Mel. How much is it?” Brian starts but I shake my head.

“He’s relying on you to do that. He yearns for you to come to his rescue once more! Christ what a mess!”

“He yearns for him period but a mess this isn’t.” Justin smiles. “You don’t need Lindsay to look after Gus. Because of her, I have a lot of free time so…”

“So what?” I’m too tired for cryptic right now.

“I can look after him. He can stay with me either in the loft or I can come here. I used to babysit him, remember? And he is going to be my stepson…” That million-dollar smile is on his lips.

I just stare at this remarkable man and then at Brian, who looks justifiably proud of him.

“So that takes away one part of Lindsay’s weaponry.” Justin then frowns. “But what do we do about JR and Michael? He won’t pay and he’ll most likely go bitching to Debs first and…”

“Oh that reminds me. One minute.” I put the call on speaker. “Debs, its Mel. Quick question, why was JR with you today?”

“Lindsay asked me to look after her for today, as Gus was being a handful. I wasn’t joking Mel. I can’t look after her tomorrow, I’m sorry...  “

“No it’s fine, don’t worry about it. Have you spoken to Michael since you left?”

“He’s left a couple of messages but I’ve been ignoring him and hiding when he tried to come around. Thank God, I had the locks changed!” She cackles. “But seriously, what do you know about the insult by Michael against Hunter and the real reason for the breaking and entering charge? Also, has he paid you back for the bail money? I want to hear the truth from someone else before I speak to him.”

“Yes, I do and no he hasn’t... well not all of it.  But I would rather do this face to face, are you about tomorrow evening?  Say about six? Can you come here?”

“Yes absolutely. I’ll see you then.”

I look around the room in surprise. “It sounded like Debs, right?”

“Yeah.” Ruth is smirking. “But with regards to JR, you do know that Heavenly Retreats has a crèche, don’t you?”

“It does?” I just stare at her.

“With fully trained nurses. Okay, long term, it’s not viable. But for a week or so it could work, right?” I just nod. “Good.  Here’s the number for you to arrange it. They’re expecting your call.”

“Thank you, just thank you.” I whisper.

“No problem. Now come on gents, let’s get you guys home.”  She orders and within minutes, they’re gone and then I cry.

THE LOFT – NEXT DAY, LATE AFTERNOON

LOWER LOFT

JUSTIN

Brian is going to kill me! I told Gus to just grab a shirt to paint in and being his father’s child, he just had to grab the Dolce & Gabbana one that Brian has yet to wear!

“What are we going to do Jussin?” Gus looks down at the paint smeared shirt.

“Um. I’m not sure Gus.”

“Maybe we could wash it really quickly before it dries and I can also make cookies to say sorry?”

“That might work. But don’t worry. He’s going to be upset with me, not you. You weren’t to know.”

“Weren’t to know what? Have you two boys been naught…?” He pauses and stares. “Justin, is that my new D&G shirt?”

“Uh yeah.”

“That I haven’t worn yet? Is that it?” I just nod. “Gus, can you go upstairs. I need to speak to your Jussin for a minute.”

“Sorry daddy, I took the shirt out.” Gus looks imploringly at him. “Please don’t be too mad at Jussin.”

He pulls me into his arms and smiles at Gus over the top of my head. “I won’t be too mad, I promise. Now take your time getting up the stairs, okay?”

“Yes daddy.”

He walks very slowly up the stairs and I feel Brian laugh. “Gus, you realise I can see your feet still, don’t you?”

“Oh, I’m going properly now. But you promise not to be too mad, okay daddy?” Gus calls down.

“I promise Gus.”

Finally his steps retreat and Brian looks down at me. “Care to explain now?” He growls, sliding his hands into the back of my pants. “Or should I wait for Gus to go home...?” I gasp and then shiver as he slides his finger between my cheeks.

“Later. Then I can apologise very slowly.”

“Good answer.” He swoops in for a quick kiss. “Oh crap, just remembered we’ve got Gus overnight because Mel and Debs are having their chat.” I groan and rest my head against his chest as his finger makes its presence deliciously felt. “This will have to do for today then.”

“Not that I’m complaining but why are you here now?” I manage to groan out between strokes and grab at his shirt while trying to keep quiet.

“No reason, just because. Don’t look so romantical twat, it’s a one off!” He grumbles but I’m not buying it!

PETERSON RESIDENCE - SAME TIME

LINDSAY

When I called my parents last night and asked if I could visit, I almost wept in relief when they said they were away for two months!  Michael and I are very happy.  We’ve decided that she should've cooled off by tomorrow and be in the mood to see reason. If not, other measures will be taken. For a start, how will Gus be looked after if not by me?  Then there’s JR... yes, most assuredly she will have cooled her jets and seen sense by the time we speak with her.

“What are we going to do about Brian?” Michael asks, sighing. “Raw! Can you believe that shit?! And making him co-owner of Kinnetic! We need to find out why we weren't told?  After all, this directly affects our children, his son and goddaughter, with him holding half the purse strings!”

I frown but see the merits of his arguments. “Okay, first things first... we need to call Mel and arrange to meet. Then you need to do two things but bear in mind, this is for the greater good.” He looks both puzzled and wary. “You need to pay Mel back. It shows your willingness to take responsibility and then you have to apologise to Justin.”

The explosion wasn't long in coming. “Why?! I didn’t mean it and I apologised to the person I said it to…”

“But the person you said it about knows what you said. It was heinous, Michael, no matter how angry you were, after all they’d been through.” He scowls at me but then nods, albeit grudgingly. “Then you have to try and get the charges against you dropped by Ben.” He curls his lip then nods. “As for Brian, once we’re back in Justin's good books, he'll fall into line.”

MEL’S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING

LOUNGE

DEBS

“Insect?! He called my grandson, my grandson, an insect and accused him of hustling?!”  Mel nods and I take another sip of wine.  “Right, do you know where they are staying?”

“No, but I doubt Lindsay will stay away for long. She’ll come out all guns blazing, trying to placate, cajole and subdue.” Mel’s voice is laced with bitterness.  “But she’s in for a rude awakening... very rude.”

“As is he, I think. And it’s time he woke up! Now, you’re coming for dinner on Sunday… No, that wasn't a question!”

“Didn’t think it was!” Mel laughs.

LOFT

MASTER BEDROOM

BRIAN

He lets out a breathy squeal and looks back at me. “Where’d you want me? Though I don't think you should have a choice because of earlier…”

“C-come forward a bit more.” He moans and then adjusts his position as he starts to sink onto his elbows. “Oh there, right there!” He locks his elbows and I take a handful of his hair and slowly withdraw before hitting his hot spot again.

“Oh I... oh!” I growl and kiss his shoulder before thrusting in earnest. Seconds later, we’re both shouting our release and I pull him over onto his side and move back inside him. “You have to thank Gus.” I mumble into his neck as he squirms backwards, pulling me in deeper and I groan. “I think we shouldn’t exactly say what parts of me you kissed and made up to.”

“No.” He mumbles before he starts to drift off.

“You still owe me a shirt.” I whisper in his ear.

“I know. We’ll get it next weekend.”

MASTER BEDROOM – NEXT MORNING

BRIAN

He’s got one arm across my lap as I read the company accounts. I sigh as he continues to sleep. I sigh louder and drop the papers on his arm. Three times. Nothing. I flick the sheet off his body and immediately he moves, scrambling sleepily to get covered back up.

“Since you’re awake…”

“I’m not. See? My eyes are closed.” He actually turns to face me to prove it. “I see nothing but darkness, which means I am asleep.” He flops back down on his stomach and resumes his previous position but the shaking gives him away.

“Shower twat!” I order and whip the sheet off the bed. My mouth waters as the goosebumps skitters along his back and bubble butt.

Forty minutes later, I’m applying some lotion to his body. I blame Ruth entirely for this. When we got to her place in New York, he fell in love with the products in the bathroom. After our first shower, I was surprised when he asked me to do his back and I ended up doing his entire body. Now, it’s become a regular thing we do.    

He looks at the bottle and then at me narrowing his eyes. “And you need to buy me two bottles of this!”

“Why two?” I laugh, rubbing his chest.

“There’s a lot more of you. I thought you were feeling softer…skin wise, skin wise!”  He laughs at my appalled expression.

“I should hope so too!”

BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE

KITCHEN

HUNTER

Dad is reading the contract from Ruth and he thinks it looks okay but has said to get Mel to look at it. I don’t want to bother her with all she’s got going on. As if by magic, she calls just as I think that.

“What’s happened?” I ask when he hangs up.

“Two things: you need to email the contract to her and apparently Lindsay and Michael are coming over today. She thinks we should be there.”

“Why?” I frown.

“No idea but I think we should too. Now get that over to her.”

ANGELCARS – AN HOUR LATER

RUTH

“Greg, you seen Carmine?” I can’t help the smile on my face.

“Yeah, garage. He’s going through his checks as he has a pick-up of his favourite couple.”  He smirks.

Frowning, I make my way down and find Carmine, lost in making sure the Lexus is up to his standard.

“And whom are we picking up that’s getting her gussied up?” I whisper in his ear.

“Jeez, must you ninja creep?!”  He yelps, clutching his heart.

“I do not ninja creep; I merely approach in a quiet manner.” I laugh in the face of his indignation. “However, something tells me you are going to like what I have come to tell you.  But before you find that out, who you picking up?”

“Ben and Hunter.” He replies, going a little pink.

“Ah, he’s going to be working part time for us for a couple of months. So you’re going to be training him.”

“Who he?”  He asks.

“Hunter.” I reply and watch him quickly wipe the smile off his face. “I saw that.” I tease him.

“I don’t know what you are talking about.” He mutters and goes back to sorting out the Lexus.

I head back to my office smiling, then an email pings through from Lindsay. She’s demanding that I pick her and Michael up this evening and drop them off at Mel’s! My immediate thought is to ping a fuck off back at her but then have a better idea…it worked the first time, maybe it will work again.

OUTSIDE PETERSON RESIDENCE – AN HOUR LATER

RUTH

I wait for the idiots to get in and true to form, she behaves like a princess and again it’s up with the partition. I listen to them talk about Justin as if he’s the devil incarnate and Mel as if she should be grateful for Lindsay’s attention.

MEL’S HOUSE

LOUNGE

I put the wine down and watch them stride out like they haven’t done anything wrong.  Lindsay takes out her key but the deadlock is on so that’s not going to work! After a few seconds, she realises her misconception and I watch her struggle to contain her temper as she rings the bell. I take my time to answer.

“Mel…”  She leans to kiss my cheek but I step back. “How have you been?”

“Fine, where are you staying?” I reply coolly.

“We’re both at my parents’ house. They are away for a couple of months.” She lets that hang in the air.

“Let’s get this done, shall we? I have better things to do with my time.”

“Where’s Gus and JR? I would like to see my children.”

“Funny, I would’ve led with that. And as you well know, they are in bed now. You chose this time.” She blinks at me in surprise. “So, what do you want to speak to me about?”

“Want to speak to you about?!”  Michael looks incredulous. “You can’t…”

“Where is my money, Michael?”

“I can get it to you…”

“Now. You will get it to me now.”  I order. “This is for your daughter, after all. And you want to be seen as a responsible father, don’t you?”

Ten minutes later, he’s paid me back! Oh this is definitely a Lindsay move! There is no way he would’ve done this without her pushing.

The front door opening surprises them both with Ben and Hunter coming in. “Hi guys.” Ben leans down to kiss my cheek. “Want a top up, Mel?” He indicates the wine and I nod.

I catch the incredulous expression on Michael’s face and the pinched look on hers.

“Dad, can I have a glass please?”

“No!”  Michael automatically replies.

“I was asking my dad.” He retorts and looks at Ben.

“Actually, you can’t…”  The smug look on Michael’s face is unmistakable. “At least, not until the food arrives; we ordered Japanese. Should be here by eight. This…”  He looks dismissively at the pair of them.  “Will be over by then?”

“True. So, what is it that you two want?”

“Something to drink would be nice.” Lindsay’s imperiousness is beginning to show.

“Being nice to you got me here.” I retort.

“Right. Since you are determined to be recalcitrant, I shall come to the point…” Lindsay snipes. I can almost see the foot-stomp she is trying her damndest to suppress. I don’t care. She still isn’t getting her way.

“Finally! The point of this pointlessness. Oh, by the way Michael, recalcitrant means having an uncooperative and stubborn attitude. You should have that tattooed somewhere.”

“Yes, what we did was wrong and we’re sorry for it…”

“Calling Hunter an insect and lying to everyone about what you said at the party for years, you merely dismiss that as wrong? You are so blasé about it! The only person that can carry off the no apologies no regrets mantra with aplomb is Brian and that’s because when he makes a mistake, he owns up to it. Unlike you.” I glower at Michael. “And as for you Lindsay, what did you hope to achieve by doing what you did to Justin? He has told you time and time again to leave him to manage his career. Now, your continued interference has cost you your relationship, your career and…”

“Now just a minute! Are you saying we are over?” Lindsay gasps.

“Nice of you to catch up.” I sneer. “So now, we’re done.”

“No, we are not done! How are you going to manage with Gus and JR while you work without my help?”

“Justin will be looking after him and JR is in the crèche. So I have no childcare issues that require me to use your bail-and-call-Debs-when-the-going-gets-tough style of help. I can do bad all by myself, but I won’t!  After all, I’m not you. And still Michael, you haven’t said sorry to Hunter or Justin.”

“I’m going to!” He objects.

“He’s less than 20 feet away and the only word you’ve said to him is no!” I snap. “And another thing, the hustling comment you made, do you actually know who he was with?” He shrugs. “It was Ruth and he was at his home to get a necessary pill that he had forgotten.”

With a huff, he gets up and heads to the kitchen.

MICHAEL

Ben and Hunter are just talking like they always did at home, leaving me out.

“Yes?” Ben looks coldly at me.

“I need to speak to you, Ben, about these charges. This will ruin me and…”

“You know we can hear, right? You are supposed to be in here apologising to me about what you said and still you won’t do it.” Hunter declares. “And the person you need to speak to about the charges levied against you, is me. As the homeowner, I decided to press charges against you, not dad.”

“Hun…”  Before I can finish, the doorbell goes.

“That must be take-out. I’ll get it.”  Ben walks out.

“How’s your craw feeling? Is something sticking in there?” Hunter sneers as he walks passed me.

I follow him back to the lounge, my stomach rumbling and hoping they will change their mind about not letting us have food. I am stunned to find Brian and Justin, settling down on the sofa.

“What are you guys doing here?” I ask, noting that Lindsay looks as surprised as I am.

“Mel invited us for dinner so here we are.” Brian replies, not even looking at me. “No, you can’t have that. It makes you taste funny.

“Really?” Justin peers at something and Brian nods. “Same way as Mountain Dew?”

“Exactly like that but with a fishy hint!” He immediately puts whatever it is down.

“Are you seriously going to eat and not offer us anything?” Lindsay demands.

“Yeah, there’s nothing left to talk about. You…”  Mel begins.

“Actually, there is one other thing.” Brian finally turns to me. “As you know Michael, you and I are in partnership for your store, which I have no problem with but I don’t have time to dedicate to overseeing the partnership. So I have delegated that to someone who does.  And he’s come up with some sterling ideas. Justin, do you want to tell Michael what your plans are for the store?”

Why the fuck is he doing this?!

“Sure. We’re going to sell it. With us being the majority stakeholders, we absolutely can, before you ask. Obviously, whatever cash that is made will be split as per the agreement.  But selling it is the only viable option.”

“We want to eat and you two are unwanted and unneeded. So leave. Now!” Mel orders.

“You will regret this, Melanie! We shall sue for custody of Gus and JR and…” Lindsay begins but my laugh cuts her off.

“Then you’d better find a lawyer that can work quickly before your parents come back. Let me see... being an unemployed gallery assistant, who was fired for gross misconduct bordering on fraud is suing for custody with a soon to be former comic bookstore owner, who is facing breaking and entering charges that temporarily live with her parents… the courts are going to see you two as quite the catch. Such a stable environment!” She pulls out her phone. “And then of course, there’s what could only be seen as harassment because this will be the second time I’ve had to call the police to get you to leave…”

We can’t believe it when we are on the other side of the door.  As we head towards the car, Ruth gets out but instead of opening the door she heads to the house, but then pauses.

“Do anything to my car and breaking and entering will be the least of your worries. Now excuse me, I have lobster rolls to eat. Goodnight.”

CHAPTER 15 - THE HITS KEEP COMING

PETERSON RESIDENCE - NEXT DAY

LOUNGE

MICHAEL

There is no fucking way I’m apologising to them! Lindsay is on the phone to a friend who’s gone through this herself. I still can't believe what happened last night. “Well what did she say?”

Lindsay leans back looking thoughtful. “She’s said we have the right to see our children. But we have to wait and if she continues to behave this way, then we bring in the authorities.  I don't want to wait.  We need our children with us. They need to know that we are serious! And the first people we call is the police to report Mel for assault. She slapped you, didn't she?”

I smile and then yelp when she slaps me really hard! “What the fuck?!”

“It had faded.” She explains. “Now to the police and child services.”

“And we need to get Boy Wonder’s bitchy mother arrested too as she hit me, knocking out my tooth.  Then she kicked me in the nuts.”

“Yeah doing that will get their attention!” Lindsay crows and we start to make calls.

COURT & STONE ATTORNEYS - SAME TIME

MARLON COURT’S OFFICE

MARLON

“Hey got a minute?” Nero my PA asks and I nod. “Remember Melanie Marcus?”

“Oh yeah, real passionate about gay rights. What about her?”

“Before you joined, she had some papers placed in trust; she wants to rescind and amend a particular clause.” He hands them to me and I smile at his expression. “Which one and why are you looking so pleased.

“Because I was here when she and her partner came in to sign it.  To say she was pissed and determined was an understatement. Look at sub-clause 6D.”

“Holy fuck! And her partner agreed to that in the first place?!”

“Oh she was more than happy.  In fact she was borderline smug.”  He scowls.  “She waived, literally, the cooling off period.  Okay to prep?”

“Yep, but I want to serve. I’ve always liked her; her partner not so much. Whenever I’ve seen them about socially, she always acted like Mel was a stop gap until she moved onto what she wanted.”

“No problem.”

57TH PRECINCT - AN HOUR LATER

CARL

The first thing I did when I got the call was find out where Mel was. She’s been in court since early this morning. Then I phone Debs to see where Jennifer is. She didn’t know but would get her to call me immediately. I can't believe, actually I can believe they are doing this. Spoilt brats, the pair of them!  

“Horvath. Oh hi Jennifer, if you’re not there can you go back to your residence and stay there? Great. It will become clear but whatever you do don’t speak to anyone until I get there.”

I speak to the desk sergeant then go to watch his interview. Once his statement is done, he walks out. Sighing I turn to my captain. “What do you think?”

“You go, take another officer with you for Mrs Taylor’s statement. Don't worry Carl. It’s obvious there's nothing but maliciousness here.”

Heaving a sigh of relief, I grab the nearest officer and head to Jennifer’s. Two hours later, the file is closed and they are about to get a visit!

PETERSON RESIDENCE - 45 MINUTES LATER

LINDSAY

I open the door to a police officer and another person. “Ms Peterson... Lindsay Peterson?”

“Yes.”

“My name is Officer Stewartson and this is Regina Bell from child services. May we come in?” I step aside and lead them to the lounge. “This won’t take long. It’s in regards to the concerns raised with the welfare of your son Gus Marcus-Peterson?”  

“Yes.” I keep the concerned look on my face.  

“We’ve spoken to Ms Marcus on the phone after your complaint and she confirmed that your son is in the safe care of the nursery that he’s always attended. An officer was dispatched to ascertain the truth of that and he came away satisfied.”

What?! I thought Justin was looking after him!

“I-I wasn’t aware of that. We’re currently separated and she’s not allowed me to see him.”

“Ah.  How long have you been separated?”

“Only recently. The last few days.”

“I see. As mentioned, Ms Marcus was in court but has now attended the station. Could you answer a couple of questions for me before we go?” Regina asks.

“Of course.”

“You were recently looking after your children following your suspension from work, can you tell me why you stopped?”

“Because we separated.”

“But how would that preclude you from looking after your children? You have a place of residence. Surely you could’ve arranged with Ms Marcus to have your children here?”

“I could’ve but I’ve only just moved in here, as of yesterday morning.” I bluster. This is not supposed to be going this way!

“I see and did you advise Ms Marcus of your new location?”

“In the evening when I went to see her with the father of my other child as already mentioned.”

“Doesn’t your phone work?”

“Yes. It does but…”

“But your primary concern, as you’ve expressed in your statement, is your children.  I don’t see that concern when you didn’t feel the need to tell Ms Marcus where you were living immediately. Or when you turn up to see Ms Marcus after your children have gone to bed.  Did you forget their bed times too?  This separation is permanent, correct?” 

“It would seem so…”

“That’s the impression I got from Ms Marcus.  She mentioned that you don’t have all of your possessions with you and she is going to contact you to collect the rest of your possessions, is that correct?”

“Yes, that’s what she said when she threw me out. But what I don’t understand is why I’m being spoken to in this manner?” I bridle.

“Because this smacks of maliciousness and we take that very seriously, Ms Peterson.”  Regina retorts sharply. “Ms Marcus has provided evidence of her propriety with regards to both children. She has not stopped you, either of you, from seeing the children. I will be making a note of this complaint on both of your files.  As regards to Ms Marcus, we consider this matter against her closed.”  I can’t believe this!

“Closed? Our files?  But…”

Officer Stewartson interrupts. “And I would advise you to think very carefully before you say anything else, Ms Peterson.  Well until Mr Novotny gets home, as I suspect you and he will have a lot to discuss.  Good day ma’am.”

RED CAPE COMICS

Fuming! I’m fucking fuming! I have just been told in no uncertain terms that they don’t believe me about Mel because the injuries look fresher than it would for being hit a couple of days ago and Mel has been in court since eight this morning. Also it’s a dead end with Boy Wonder’s psycho mother, as she has pleaded mitigating circumstances. And because I didn’t report either crime until after we were removed from the house, they are saying we’re trying to waste their time!

And all of this was said in front of Boy Wonder! I insisted that he stay to hear about his mother and now he’s just looking at me, with something like pity.

“Well that didn’t go so well, did it?” He laughs and I so want to smack him! I ignore the call from Lindsay. “So what I wanted to talk to you about is the selling of this store. An auditor will be in next week to assess it. We want a quick sale and it will include all inventory.”

“All inventory? What the hell does that mean? Some of the stuff in here are my personal belongings…”

“Which you listed under the partnership with Kin…”

“There is no partnership with Kinnetic; the partnership is between me and Brian!”

“What I was going to say, if you would let me finish, the partnership is between Kinney-Taylor Enterprises and yourself…”

“Kinney-Taylor Enterprises? Who the fuck are they?!”

“Another personal partnership between me and Brian. Not that this is any of your concern but we have pooled all our assets and own everything jointly. So if there if there is anything you want to retain…”

“I’ll just take it, since they are mine, since childhood.”

“Once more and you need to really listen, Mr Novotny…. Taking something without the permission of the other person who owns it is called stealing. Surely you don’t want to add to your charges?”

“Look Boy Wonder, you won’t get away with this!  Brian will come to his senses and when he does it will be your ass that’s out of here as it should’ve been the day after he fucked you!”

“Temper-temper Michael, you’re beginning to sound threatening. I assume that was what you were aiming for?” He gathers his bag, much like he did when he found out I told on his affair and smirks. “Yeah I know what you’re thinking Michael, but it’s you who is gone!”

COURT & STONE ATTORNEY’S - FRIDAY EVENING

MARLON

I’ve just got off the phone with Mel and all I can say is good on her. She may have had her reasons at the time, but it was a very bitchy thing to do, but she’s done the right thing now. On Sunday, I will deliver the news and then the screaming will start, I suspect!

DEBS & CARL’S HOUSE - EARLY SUNDAY AFTERNOON

LOUNGE

MEL

We’re just about to start lunch when the door knocks. I know it’s not Marlon but I have a good idea of who it is! Carl opens the door and they come to a surprised halt when they see us all gathered around.

“I see which side you’ve chosen Ma…”

“If you mean the side of honesty and decency, then yes that’s the side I’ve chosen.  Now you are welcome to stay and eat. Then perhaps we discuss what’s happening calmly. But if you can’t do that, leave now!” Debs responds. “What’s it going to be?”

They waver for a bit before approaching the table to sit down. There’s a space next to Ems and one on the other side next to Ben. Blake moves around so that they are sitting next to each other next to Ems. He doesn’t look pleased but says nothing.

“Where are Gus and JR?” Lindsay asks. “I would like to see them.”

“They have a playdate, with Marie’s kids, which you arranged.”

“Oh yes, I had forgotten that.” She replies smoothly. “Perhaps I can…”

“Allow me to remind you that you arranged for Marie to drop them off at my house at six. It would be churlish to change this at such a late stage.  Why not follow me back and you can see them for an hour before they go to bed? You can even bathe them if you like.”

There is a quick flicker of what the fuck across Brian’s face but he says nothing.

“So Hunter, what were you saying earlier about helping Baby at Britin?” Ems is shit stirring as only he can.

“Yeah, I’m looking forward to it. But I’m also going to be working at AngelCars with Ruth at the same time as a driver/courier. That motorbike is awesome!”

“That’s great son!” Carl raises his glass to him. “So that should carry up until you restart school, right?”

“Yeah, just waiting for the papers to come through. Then I’ll be at Carnegie and pretending that he’s not my dad when I see him in the corridor!”

“Just think of Michael and you’ll be fine.” Blake mutters and everyone looks at him in surprise. “What? I don’t like him and I’m not going to be nicey-nicey now that I don’t have to be. I’m also on the side of honesty and decency, remember?”

I don’t think I’ve ever seen Ted look so proud.

“Well since Blake has talked about the elephant in the room…”  Carl snickers slightly.  “What you guys tried to do was borderline illegal... and you have me to thank for not being arrested or officially cautioned. The problems between the four of you have been caused by you two…”

Ems sighs angrily. “And what did they do?”

“Lindsay called child services on Mel and Michael tried to have her arrested for assault. He tried to get Jennifer arrested, as well.”

“You are kidding me right?” Ems growls, moving his chair a bit further away. “What is wrong with you two?!”  

“So you told tales, did you?” Michael sneers, staring hatefully at Justin, who in turn, just rolls his eyes.

“Michael!  It was Carl who was speaking, not Justin!” Debs snaps.”

“Well your precious Justin is selling the comic book store from under me!” He snaps back.

“We, not he. He is representing the both of us here.” Brian’s corrects tartly.  “Michael, Justin told me what you said about the childhood toys.  So we had the locks changed this morning.  You will get your keys tomorrow from the auditor when he arrives about nine o’clock to take an inventory.”

“Wow.” Debs sits back. “Why?”

“After all that’s happened I, I mean we...” Brian smiles at Justin, who grins back at the correction. “We don’t want any unnecessary ties with Mr Novotny.”

“Unnecessary ties? How can you be so dismissive?!” Lindsay gasps.

“The same way he was so cruel and remains unapologetic.”  Brian retorts.   

“So JR isn’t going to be your goddaughter, then?” Michael sounds stunned and hurt.

“That depends on you. She shouldn’t miss out because of your actions.  Okay, she most probably won’t know what the hell is going on but she’s going to look cute!”

The door goes and Carl get up to answer. “Uh yeah, she’s right over there.” He lets Marlon in and points at me.  

“Marlon, thank you for coming. Did you find it easily?” I greet him with a kiss on both cheeks.

“Yeah no problem. So which one is he?” Everyone looks confused and worried.

“The redhead next to the blonde.” I keep my voice as calm as I can.

“Mr Kinney, may I have a word with you and only you please?” Brian looks at me and I look away. “Is there somewhere we can discuss this in private?”  

Brian stands and indicates that he should follow him outside. The room goes quiet and Justin tries to catch my eye but I won’t look at him. Twenty agonising minutes later, Marlon comes back in. “It’s done. It just needs filing.” He turns to look at Justin. “Can you go to him, please?” Justin is up and out in a flash. “Well Mel, I’ll see you around, I hope.”

“Marlon? Marlon from Court & Stone? I thought I recognised you. It’s Lindsay. Mel’s…”

“Yes I know. Like I said, see you around, Mel. I think the next event is on the 27th. You going?”

“Oh yes, I’ll be there!” I smile and see him out.  

Just as I sit down, Brian and Justin come back in. They both have red eyes and look shocked.

“Mel, I can’t believe you’ve done this.”  Brian looks at me with an awed expression.

“Believe it. I took onboard some things and like Blake, I’m on the side of honesty and decency. I’m sorry it was ever in. Truly.”

“What? What has she done?!”  Ems demands, his eyes filled with tears and worry.

“Given him his full rights to Gus back.” Justin whispers. “She’s given them back.”

“What does that mean exactly?” Hunter asks.

“It means that all three of us have equal say in the upbringing of Gus. And when he marries Justin, he will have the same rights too.”

“Why have you done that?!” Lindsay shouts.  

“Because the sub-clause I put in originally was fucking nasty and you knew that when you agreed to it Lindsay!  I have rescinded it and put this one in.”

She looks like she’s going to be sick. “You can’t do this, Mel!”

“Why not? He’s changed and has always supported Gus. He gave up his rights to save you from marriage to a Frenchman, whose work Visa was running out, for heaven sake! That would have resulted in jail time! I don’t see what your problem is. This is exactly what you’ve always wanted; Brian as the father. Well now he is in every sense of the word! Correction, they will be! And the first thing we all need to discuss is the support payments. The current funds need to be moved to a separate account that can only be accessed with two signatures. One from the mother and one from the father, and all future payments put into that. Ben, Michael the same applies to you.  Everything has to be clear cut as it should’ve been in the first place. Now, can everyone charge their glasses to honesty and decency?!”

“Well fuck me! Mel I’m so proud of you.” Carl laughs, alongside Debs. “To honesty and decency!”

Lindsay and Michael are just sitting there stupefied before she shakily reaches for her glass.  

I take a hearty sip and then turn to Ted. “Can you let Lindsay know how much money she needs to transfer to you when the support account is opened? You’ve got the spreadsheet, right? I think I have every payment.”

“Yeah I did. There were a couple missing but it’s easily amended.” He turns his shark like smile on Lindsay. “The account will be opened by the end of the week. I’ll furnish you with the details and the money must be in the account by close of business on Friday.”

She just nods but her hand is still shaking. Justin blows me a kiss and mouths thank you so much.  

Yeah Lindsay, you weren’t expecting that, were you? I wonder what your next move is going to be.

CHAPTER 16 - RULES, HARSH REALITY...AND THIS IS ABOUT YOU!

LINDSAY

This is the ultimate betrayal! I feel utterly blindsided. After all we discussed at the time, that she’s done this...  

“Wait a minute. What do you mean the same applies to Ben and I? How do you propose I pay support when I have no means of income?” Michael’s incessant whine cuts through my thoughts.

“How do you work out you won’t have any money?” Emmett frowns. “You can use the money you get from the sale of the shop for that and also, oh I don’t know... get a job?”

“You don’t know what my finances are like right now, Emmett!”  He snaps. “Nobody does!”

“I do.” Ted points out. “I’m Brian and Justin’s personal accountant, remember? When you joined in partnership with, what is now, Kinney-Taylor Enterprises, you had to submit your accounts for the shop and it is doing quite well. But it would need to be brought up to snuff, I do like that phrase, in order to achieve its best value. I will meet you tomorrow, as well as Justin, so we can see what the auditor thinks of a refit, at least. It has seen better days.”

Emmett leans across and swats Ted’s hand. “Behave Teddy! This is obviously very traumatic for Michael. You know, actually having to work for a living, without having the backup of Ben and Brian to bail him out.”

“So what’s the best thing to do? Set up the account and then set up the schedule or the other way around?” Brian has recovered from his shock and is all business.

“The setting up of the account is a separate, but legally enforceable, issue. Let’s all go back to my house and sort out the schedule. Now is as good a time as ever.” Mel stands up and looks like she doesn’t have a care in the world. “How did you guys get here, Ben?”  

“Oh AngelCars. We got the Daimler, we couldn’t believe it. Seems the Lexus has engine problems. Lucky for us!”  

Michael leaps up from his seat. “Then I can share with you and…”

“You need to ask, not demand.” Justin cuts across him.  

“I’m not talking to you!” He snaps and rolls his eyes at me. “Ben, call whoever it is that is driving you and tell them they will be making another stop after, or would it be, before you?”

“No.” Ben replies. “Since I don’t want to share a house with you, I sure as fuck don’t want to share a car. Hunter as you’re not really needed for this, why not call Carmine to take you home and I’m sure Ruth will drop me off.  Mel, will you share with them?”

Before she could answer, Ted pipes up saying that he’d share with Hunter and soon everyone is going. Much, I think to the relief of Carl and Debs, who really do look like they’ve had their fill of the pair of us.

“So, how are we supposed to get there?” I demand, shooting daggers at Mel while Michael glares at Ben.

“You could always take a taxi!  But I have a much better solution, I’ll go with Brian and Justin.” She giggles at the scowl on Justin’s face and I bite my tongue. “Hang on a minute, Justin! Sheesh now that’s a great you’re fucking with me right? look if ever I saw one!  Lindsay, you take my car and follow us and then when we’re finished setting up the schedule, you two can take a cab home.”

“There... non-existent problem is solved!” Debs smiles, earning another glare from Michael.  She glares back then clears her throat. “When you guys have sorted the visitation schedule out, maybe you can let me know the dates so I can keep them free if needs be?”

“I uh, yeah not a problem.” Ben stumbles out and Brian nods looking equally baffled. “Okay, let’s call AngelCars and get this sorted out.”  

“Let me just get my things out of the car in the meantime.” Mel says and starts to head out.

“Mel, there’s no need for that.” I object.  

“As demonstrated by your earlier behaviour, there is every need!” She states and walks out.

MEL

I have to say, I love the Rolls, especially for the look of envy it brought to their faces!

We got home and immediately, Brian and Justin commandeered one end of the sofa with Ben and I taking the other.  

Michael really doesn’t believe that Brian has called time on their non-existent fun in the sun. There will be no Palm Springs retirement. Rage is not going to be hanging his super-pants up with Zephyr’s.  Zephyr has been eclipsed in every sense of the word!

“Do we get to have a drink this time?” Lindsay carps. “I don’t know about anyone else but I could do with one.”  

“Tea or coffee?” She frowns at me. “Oh, you’re not going to bathe the kids before you go, then?”  

“It’s only five; you said they were getting here for six!” Michael complains. “If it is so much trouble for you, perhaps I should get it.” He stands up huffily and heads to the kitchen.

“You should sit down!” Ben snaps. “This is not the loft where you thought you had the God given best friend’s right to come and go as you pleased. This is Mel’s home. Show some fucking manners!”

Michael opens and then closes his mouth in fury but does sit down. His mutinous expression no longer has an effect on Ben as he simply glowers back.  

“So, let’s start, shall we? Who should we begin with Gus or JR?” Ben asks.

“What do you mean?” Michael frowns. “Why can’t the visits be the same time for both?”

“Because we want to spend quality time with Gus and we can’t with JR there.  And the same should go for you?” Justin explains. “Yes, before you pitch a bitch fit, there could be times when both children will be with all five or six of us but that shouldn’t be the norm.”

“I think that’s fair. Very fair.” Ben nods.

“What do you mean five? It should be six! Why wouldn’t you include Mel?” Lindsay points out frostily.  

“I’m not excluding Mel...” Justin’s tone is even icier. I don’t think I’ve ever heard it from him but Brian doesn’t look surprised in the least. “When either Gus or JR are with their other parents, that’s Mel’s turn for a break. She is their primary caregiver, after all.”

“They will be in the nursery or the crèche during the day.” Lindsay retorts. “Pray tell, what would she need a break from?”  

“Working during the day and then looking after the children at night. You didn’t even last a day when you were suspended from Bloom.” Brian responds coolly, earning a giggle from Justin.

“Gus wasn’t well!” She barks back.

“Gus out-tantrumed you and you couldn’t handle it so you called in the Debbie Cavalry!”  She looks taken aback by the savageness of his tone. “And before either of you get any ideas into your heads, when you have the children, you have the children. No calling Debs to the rescue when the going gets fucking tough!”

“I agree.” Ben again nods and Michael is close to exploding.

The lights coming up the drive stall his queen out and when Lindsay goes to get up to open the door, I don’t stop her.  

Marie comes in carrying a sleeping JR. “She’s just gone off. I bathed them both before I brought them home. We got back home earlier than I thought.”

“Oh thanks, Marie. Let me take her upstairs.” I kiss her cheek and let her go. Lindsay barely acknowledges her, she’s so fixated on Gus.  

Just as I’m about to close her door, I find Ben outside. “Just a kiss goodnight.” He whispers.  “I won't wake her.” I nod and wait for him to follow me down. While he heads back to the lounge, I head to the kitchen and grab a bottle of red from the counter and some glasses. When I get back in the lounge there’s happy grins from the sofa occupants!  

“Lambskin.” I can hear Lindsay’s cooing in the hallway. “Mommy has missed you.”  

“Where’d you go mommy?”  He asks her and we all wait for her response.  

“Mommy has to go away for a while but I’ll be back.” She tells.

Oh no you fucking won’t!

“Okay mommy. Where’s momma? Momma!” He calls out.

“In here Gus!” I call back and he runs in and then comes to a screeching halt.

“Daddy! Jussin! You're here!  Mommy, daddy and Jussin are here! And Uncle Ben too!” Ben looks surprised and pleased that Gus acknowledged him.

“Hi Gus, did you enjoy your playdate?” Ben asks as Gus clambers onto the sofa to sit next to his Jussin.  

“Oh yes!” He yawns. “But I’m not tired. So I can stay up and talk to daddy and Jussin! Oh, hello Uncle Michael.”

Jussin turns his head into Brian’s shoulder and Ben finds the bottom of his glass suddenly very interesting. “Enjoying the bouquet, Ben?” Brian asks and Ben looks puzzled. “I find it has the scent of dismissal. A very good year for dismissal, don’t you think?” Snickers abound while the other two cringe. Lindsay recovers first.

“Gus, come on. You’ve got to have your bath and then I can read you a bedtime story.”

“I’ve had my bath mommy. Auntie Marie gave it to me, remember? Besides a bath will make me sleepy and I want to talk to daddy and Jussin. Then when I’m tired, they can read me a story.” He wiggles between the pair of them and Justin looks at his watch before giving Brian a nod.

I frown and watch fascinated as Brian takes Gus’s hand and starts stroke the palm in circles. Then after a few minutes, he lets go and Justin does the same to his other hand, while talking quietly to him. After ten minutes of that, Gus’s head starts to droop.

“Can I take him up?” Justin asks quietly as Gus starts to snuggle into Brian’s side.  

“No you can’t!” Lindsay hisses and starts to approach...

“Lindsay.” Brian’s tone is low and barely controlled. “Let Justin take him up, he won’t wake him and you will.” His eyes flash with fury and taunting, as if daring her to try and take Gus off Justin.  

“Come on, little man.” Justin croons, rubbing the middle of Gus’s back and all Gus does is yawn and mumble. “Night daddy.” Then he buries his face in Justin’s neck.

She retreats back to her seat, though she does swipe a glass of wine on the way. Her look right now reminds me of the villain on Dora the Explorer when he’s thwarted, all pinched and conniving. Damn, I have got to stop watching TV with Gus!

Ten minutes later, Justin is back. “Didn’t even wake when I changed him into his PJs.”  

“So, what was the hand thing?” Ben asks before I could.

“I don’t know how it happened or why, but he finds it relaxing especially if you talk quietly to him. Normally takes about ten minutes.” Brian shrugs a little embarrassed.

“I didn't get to see JR.” Michael moans, looking at me.

“You mean you didn't get up to go see JR.” I correct him. “But let's not get into a mudslinging match again. Shall we start the first visit next weekend?”

“Sure. Let Lindsay and Michael have them. Got a business meeting I can't get out of.” Brian tells us.

“So it will be the four of us.” Michael states. “Where would you like us to meet? Let’s not make it here so we can let Mel have her break. So I think the loft or....”

“Four of us?” Justin’s patience has run out. “You’re forgetting that I co-own Kinnetic. If Brian has a meeting, then I have a meeting. And for the last time Michael, you are not getting back in the loft! Back to you three and the kids... okay JR I kinda get as she’s so tiny but why can’t Gus go to the park?”

“I don't have the money for that kind of thing.” Lindsay mumbles, looking reproachfully at him.

“The park is free. We can take a picnic or something. I’d love to run around with the little guy.” Ben suggests, holding onto his Zen as tightly as he can.

“But what about JR? She can't do those things.” Michael tries again.

“Run no.” Ben says tightly. “But she can practice crawling and play with her toys on the mat.”

“I think that’s settled and the following weekend they spend with me and we alternate. If there is a problem, you must let the others know promptly understand?” I look meaningfully at the mutinous twosome.

“Agreed.” Lindsay says but I know her. Something will come up. Well she can dream on; I have a plan!

“Going to call Ruth; you guys better call a cab.” Brian reaches for his glass.

“I don’t see why we can't share with you, Brian.” Lindsay pouts.

“Because they don’t want to. How many times do they have to say it?” I retort.  

“Brian is enthralled at the moment but he will come to his senses.” She looks maliciously at Justin as she declares, “He always does. And...”

“Which wannabe princess mantra are you about to spout now?”  

“I am not a wannabe princess, Mel! Stop calling me that!” Lindsay seethes.

“Mel, she’s right she’s not a wannabe princess.” Justin turns to her. “She’s a never gonna be princess.” We’re stunned into silence by the viciousness of the remark, then the cab beeps.  “Your carriage is here Cindernever and Crumpledforeskin. Don’t keep him waiting...the meter’s running.”

With one death glare at Justin, they flounce out.

“Cinder-Cindernever and Crum-Crumpledforeskin!” Ben shakes with laughter. “I have to tell Hunter!”  

“Twat!”  Brian chuckles.

I have to say, as inventiveness goes, Justin knocked it out of the park on that one!

RED CAPE COMICS - EARLY MONDAY MORNING

TED

We are unsurprised to find that there is no Michael when we get to the store. Humphrey Franks, the auditor, looks relieved and I can’t help but ask why.

“Let’s just say, his voice carries!” He chuckles.

“Carries?” Justin looks puzzled. “You and he haven’t…”

“No, goodness me, no! However, our company dealt with him a few years ago when this partnership was established…” He shudders for emphasis. “Let’s get this done before he remembers that he’s supposed to be here. I remember my colleague complaining about his timekeeping.  He was four hours late for an appointment once and then had the nerve to take his time with inventory!”

“Agreed.  Let’s get this done and quickly!” Justin laughs.

PETERSON RESIDENCE - AFTERNOON

LINDSAY

We are still smarting from the names we were called last night by Justin. We ended up drinking far too much when we got home and we’ve only just got up!

“I feel like shit!” Michael grumbles as he gets some coffee.  

“One word… Advil!” I smile tiredly at him and hand him two pills and then frown. “Weren’t you supposed to be at the store this morning?”

“Oh fuck!” He groans and knocks back the coffee.  “I forgot that, around about the sixth glass of wine!” He reaches for his phone. “Brian, It’s me. Can we not do this audit thing today? I’m not… What do you mean speak to Justin?!  Hello!  Brian? Hello!”  

He tries to call back but clearly it’s going to voicemail. “Fuck that, I’m not speaking to him!  I’ll deal with it when I feel a bit more with it. Can you believe the way he was last night?  Crowing and preening like the big I am more like the big am not!  And as for Ben!”

“Yes, he suddenly was father of the year where JR was concerned! And calling Gus little guy, ugh made me so annoyed.”

“So what’s going to happen on Saturday?”  

“Park, I suppose but I would have preferred to be indoors.”

“You know what we need to do?” He leans back in his chair. “We need to get to the diner and get some post-hangover food.”

“Excellent idea!”  I smile at him.

DINER - AN HOUR LATER

DEBS

Well they said they were and now they have. Part of me is sad that it has come to this but he’s, as usual if I’m honest, brought it upon himself. And speak of the devil!  He looks awful.

“Good afternoon. How you feeling?” I ask, approaching with coffee.

“How do you think?” He gripes, sliding into the booth with an equally fragile looking Lindsay.

“You were warned though, Michael. I just didn’t think it would happen this quickly. But I guess when they want things done, they get them done.”

“Yeah, it’s amazing what using Brian’s money can do!” He growls and then rolls his eyes.  “And here comes another friend of mine.  With friends like you Ted, I don’t need enemies!”

“Where were you this morning, Michael? We waited a long time for you.”

“I had things to do that didn’t involve catering to his whims.”

Ted sighs. “Yes, I can smell that. Well here you go; this is their offer, this doesn’t include any works to be carried out during the refit, which will be deducted, but if you accept now that’s what you get. You are more than welcome to get an independent auditor to look at the store and inventory but a representative of Kinney-Taylor Enterprise must be present at the time. The store is now closed and will be until the dissolution of the partnership is complete and…”

“What the hell are you talking about?!”

Oh shit he doesn’t know. Michael, why don’t you pull your head out of your ass and listen!

“You knew the store was going to be assessed today and that included all inventory, including that in the apartment above the store. You’re quite the hoarder. We told you to meet us at the store to give you your keys but you didn’t show up. In fact, you tried to cancel the appointment this afternoon. This is called a delaying tactic, which is frowned upon in legal circles. And speaking of legal circles, Lindsay here is the figure that needs to be transferred to the account on Friday by the close of business. As Mel said, it is legally enforceable and a very good reason has to be given as to why the money can’t be transferred. Now that I have killed two birds with one stone, I shall take my leave of you.”

They both look dumbstruck. They sit there clutching their pieces of paper. “Look, you guys need to go and seek legal or financial advice or something and quickly.” I order them as slowly they come out of their fog of disbelief.  

“Ma, you have to help me.”  Michael turns to me. “You need to speak to Brian to get him to change his mind on this. You’re the only one that can persuade…”

“No. Michael, I don’t and more importantly I won’t speak to Brian. You don’t get it, do you? You think by not talking about it absolves you from guilt. It doesn’t!  I haven’t forgiven you, Michael and I doubt Brian ever will.”

“Michael, come on!” Lindsay suddenly stands up. “I have had enough of this shit!”

MICHAEL

“Lindsay!  Wait!  Slow down!  Where are we going?”

“To the bank of course!” She hails a cab and one stops quickly. “I can’t transfer something I don’t have!” She scoffs. “I’m a WASP and we don’t like being messed with.”

An hour later, we’re outside the bank reeling. It seems that Mel thought ahead and put a hold on the account, blocking any withdrawals. She was granted a temporary order because of the false reports we filed against her.

“So what are we going to do now?” My head is pounding and I feel the need to puke.

“Go home and get some sleep.” She drops her head in her hands. “We need to deal with this with clear heads!”

PETERSON RESIDENCE - EARLY EVENING

LINDSAY

I feel a little better, head wise, but still can’t believe what has happened today.  I grab the paper that Ted handed me earlier and read the figure again. Has Brian really given us that much over the years?  Mel had insisted that we kept a careful account of what he gave us for Gus. I have to admit that I dipped a couple of times when I needed to. That darling suit here and some beautiful shoes there, I simply never told her and now I have to find the fucking difference!  

Two tearful hours later, my parents have transferred the money to me, praising me for finally leaving Mel and coming to my senses!  

MICHAEL

I sit up and read their offer and it is not bad, if truth be told. Then I read the inventory list and feel sick to my stomach. Now I wish I had taken Mel’s advice and put the stuff that was in the apartment in storage because they are included.  

As sad as I am to have to lose those, I feel happy that the ones at Ma’s at in the attic at Ben’s are still mine!

THE LOFT - WEDNESDAY MORNING

BRIAN

I stop kissing him for a minute because I know that Ruth will be here soon. I look into his beautiful blue eyes and he brushes his fingers over my kiss bruised lips. Oh, that feels good!

“She does have perfect timing as usual!” He murmurs as the familiar beep of Ruth’s text comes through. We make our way downstairs and I whimper. “What? What’s the matter?”  He looks up at me in concern.

“A Chevrolet Alpheon. She has a mint condition Chevrolet Alpheon!  Look at that!” I turn his head and his jaw drops. “Why are you doing this to me?!”  I grouch as she opens the boot and we put our cases in.  

“Cos I can.” She smirks and opens the door and we slide in. I was wrong. This is not mint condition; this is beyond perfect.  

“Jesus, Brian!” He sighs, wriggling into the seat. “You gotta feel this!”

“Not helping, twat!” I grump.

We’re on our way to New York for the weekend with Daphne. As we near the airport, I can see the look of disappointment knowing we have to get out of the car marring his face. But also, there is a touch of relief. It was Mel’s idea that we go to New York early. So here we are!

“You guys okay?” Ruth pulls over and turns around to face us. “Never heard you so quiet unless you are sucking face.”

Justin sighs. “For the last few days, we’ve heard nothing but moans and complaints about us going away this weekend. Lindsay has been laying it on especially thick but luckily, Gus is fine with it. Michael has been turning up at the loft, wanting to discuss the store offer but only with Brian. And if it’s not that, then people, well those two, are yet a-fucking-gain interfering in our plans for the wedding.”

“What does your wedding have to do with anyone but you two?” She shakes her head in annoyance.  

“I promised Gus that he would be the ring bearer and…”

“He’s four, for fuck sake!” She snaps crossly and we’re both taken aback. “Sorry, really sorry but this is ridiculous!  Do you know what you need?”

We look at each other and then her shaking our heads.

“24 hours, a judge and a license.” She states emphatically. “What they gonna do when you get back? Haul you in front of a judge and demand that you get divorced?!  Who is going to look cray-cray when the judge asks why and they say because they are in love and we don’t like it?!”

“Divorced?” I frown at Justin, who looks equally confused.

“GET MARRIED IN NEW YORK!” She yells at us. “I will drive you there. It takes six hours tops, you work on the license. You could be all done by Friday, married Saturday and home Sunday as per the original arrangement. The only people who don’t know where you are right now are the people who sure as fuck don’t need to know!  Oh I am so pissed!”

“But I promised Gus that he would be at my wedding to his Jussin…”

“And he will be. Just call it a blessing instead. He’s not going to know the difference. He just knows that his daddy loves his Jussin and he gets to hold the rings. He will still be doing what he would be doing! Get married on your terms, nobody else’s. And as an incentive, after you get married you can drive this, just the two of you, back to Pittsburgh. I won’t be able to stop you if you want to make a christening pitstop...the car seats are buttery soft leather.”  She smirks knowingly.

“We’re doing this. You know that, right?” I tell my soon to be husband.

“Oh yeah! You work on licenses; I’ll work on our fuck route for the way home!”

“And put down blankets for crying out loud!”  Ruth laughs as she starts the car.

CHAPTER 17 - RENDERED SPEECHLESS

CAR JOURNEY TO NEW YORK

BRIAN

Yes! I get to drive! Ruth is on navigation duties and Justin is in the back stretched out working on our return journey. This car drives like a dream.  

“Hey Justin, you got the route worked out?”  He nods slowly at Ruth’s question then hands over his iPad and she starts to put it in the satnav. “You want the wedding suite at Heavenly and I assume that you will be placating a highly pissed off but excitable Daph so she needs a room right?”

“Oh yes!” Justin laughs. “This pays her back for Paris!”  I catch his eye and he winks at me.  

“And of course we have to buy our wedding outfits. We’ve got the rings at home but we want to get something to remember this auspicious occasion. We’re going to get matching watches, what do you want?”

Ruth looks up from inputting before shaking her head. “Nothing, honestly. You being happy is all I want...actually no, I know what I want!  Them removed from the account!”

“Done!” We laugh and I can’t help the snort when Justin does his happy dance!

BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE

KITCHEN

HUNTER

It’s now or never. “Dad, can I ask you a question?” He nods looking at me carefully.  “Are you and Michael definitely over? As in he’s never coming back?”

“Definitely.”

“So can we redecorate? I know this sounds bratty but I want him gone from here in every way.”  

He looks surprised and then smiles. “Hunter, it’s your house. You want to redecorate then that’s what we do. It might take some time, so why not start from the top down.”

“So why don't you take that off?”  I point at his hand and for a second there’s a flicker of sadness before he slides it off his finger.  “You got a guy before and you’ll get another one who is much better.” He huffs a quiet breath. “You will! You just have to believe yourself worthy and you are!”

He stands and gives me a hug. “Thank you son.” He whispers and I swallow my tears hating that guy so much!

DEBS & CARL’S HOUSE - EARLY EVENING

MICHAEL’S OLD ROOM

CARL

“Ouch for fuck sake!” Debs grouses as yet again she bangs her knee on the box as she tries to navigate her way across to close the window. “I have had enough of this! First thing I’m doing tomorrow is calling to get him to come and move this shit out of here. It's been here long enough!”

“Who and what are you talking about?”  I help her to get across to the door.

“Michael, these are his, those damn toys!”  She’s about to go downstairs when she stops.  “Do you think Brian and Justin know about them?”

I sigh.  “I think you should at least tell Ted and call Ben to see if they have the same storage issue.”

She bites her lip, but then nods and pulls out her phone. “Ben, it’s Debs. Has Michael got any toys in your place? He does. Hunter’s doing what?  No stop him!  Ben, stop him and call Carl back!  I need to call Ted!”

Fifteen minutes later, Ben calls me back. Luckily, Hunter hadn't got far. Debs is pacing with impatience, waiting for Ted to call her back as he was at a client dinner. An hour later, she is trying not to call Michael and rip his head off!

“You’ve done the right thing, no matter what he's going to say.  Debs, if these and the stuff at Ben’s are accounted for then it's not your problem. And if not, then again, it’s not your problem. Brian is not stupid. He would’ve made sure that he has his business head on, friend or no friend. And it is a business arrangement, which Michael has mostly benefited from.”

“What the fuck am I going to do with that boy?!”  She grumbles.

“Stop treating him like one.” I tell her gently.  “He’s a grown man with responsibilities. This is one of them so let him deal with the consequences of his actions.”

HEAVENLY RETREATS - THURSDAY LATE MORNING

BRIAN & JUSTIN’S SUITE

DAPH

Extermination, no evisceration, will be happening the moment I get within reaching distance of those two friends of Brian’s!  Ruth is looking at me with amusement.  

“So you are all caught up on what’s been happening. I’m disappointed, I expected a much fiercer reaction.”

I crack my knuckles. “I’m saving it for when I see them. They need to feel exactly how happy I am up close and personal!”

The door opens and a grinning Brian and Justin come in. I scream and leap into Brian’s arms and he almost buckles.  “I see Paris has agreed with you. Is there a bit more junk in your trunk?!”

“Oh yes definitely! And where are my treats?!”  Justin demands.

“Do you want to eat it or wear it?”  I threaten.

“Well he can wear it and then I can eat it. See it’s a win-win.”  Justin leers.

The door knocks and Ruth goes to open it.  “Just put it over there for me doll.  Can you bring the Kobe and Waygu platter with the lobster hush puppies and fries, and a salad, up as soon as it is ready, for 4. Daph, you’re okay with lobster, right?”

“Uh yeah.”  I look confused at Justin, who just shrugs and waits for the champagne to be opened. When the guy goes, I look at all three of them. “Okay, what’s going on?  You’ve ordered some high end stuff.”  Brian and Justin look at each other, their smiles getting bigger and bigger. “Rapidly losing what is left of good humour!  If you don’t tell me right…”

“We’re married. As of now, we’ve been married for 78 minutes.”  

I sit down very slowly.  “Say that again.”

“Married... Brian and I are married. Now don’t get upset and start throwing things. But someone wisely told us that our wedding is about us.  So we just did it and fuck what the Pittsburgh posse wants to say.” I look at Brian and he just nods. “No fooling Daph. He’s mine now and forever!”

I bawl like a baby and that sets off Ruth. “I’m so h-happy!” I snivel when I’ve managed to compose myself a bit better.

“We see that.” Brian laughs, handing me another tissue and then hands one to Ruth.  

Soon we are tucking into the wedding brunch. I still can’t fucking believe it! “Wait! When are you going to tell them all?”

“Obviously, we need to tell Mother Taylor first.”  Brian winces a bit.  “And to be honest, apart from her, we weren’t going to. But we don’t want certain people to use it as a cudgel to metaphorically beat us with, and by us I mean Justin.” Brian remarks with his trademark sneer.  “Sunday should be so much fun!”

“Oh it will be for me.” Ruth looks smugly at him and he frowns. “Because I get to drive this baby home!”

“Can we swap please; can we swap?!”  Brian begs. I have never seen him beg. “It’s a new Atalanta, how can you do that to me?!”

“Nah, this is my personal baby and the only person that fucks in that is me!”

“Brian, let me see!” Justin demands before whistling. “Can we at least kiss in it at the blessing?”

“Sure but no tongues!”  She giggles.

JENNIFER TAYLOR’S CONDO - EARLY AFTERNOON

JENNIFER

I’m waiting for Carl to drop Debbie off so we can have a chat. Seems that Italian Mother’s Guilt has hit big time and she’s regretting telling Ted what she told him. But like Carl said in either scenario, it is not her fault. And besides, this is my son and her second son he’s attempting to deceive!

I see Carl’s car drive up he waves as she gets out and I open the door to her. “Hey, no cast!” She winks conspiratorially at me as she comes in.

“Yes it is a relief to be able to use both hands again. Go on through to the lounge.  Methinks this chat calls for something stronger than tea or coffee.”

”Oh yeah.” She makes herself comfortable while I pour us a brandy each. “He’s already been on the phone bitching about Saturday.”

“But he’s not even gone out yet!” I sigh in exasperation. “You know what this is, don’t you?”

“Jealousy. Instead of cancelling the wedding making them drift apart, Brian and Justin are closer than ever. Now that his relationship with Ben is ending, he’s got nobody to play with.” She takes another sip of brandy.  “You’ve heard all that they’ve tried to do, haven’t you?”

“Oh yes and that reminds me. I need to speak to Mel.  I’ve heard something very interesting.  Help yourself to more brandy.” I dial Mel’s office number and Debs looks surprised.  “Mel and Justin have always got on. Ah Mel, it’s Jennifer.  I’m fine.  Listen, I won’t keep you but I’ve heard on the WASP network that you and Lindsay are no more because she left you as she’s no longer a lesbian.  Of course, it was Lynette! She was crowing that her parents are so delighted that both their beautiful daughters are on the straight and narrow path. No, that’s word for word. So what you do with that information is entirely up to you.”

Debs finally composes herself. “Oh thanks Jen.  I needed that!”

RED CAPE COMICS - FRIDAY MORNING

HUMPHREY, THE AUDITOR

I can see Ted getting more and more annoyed. And I don’t blame him. The inventory that was at the other residences weren’t on the spreadsheet, so it looks like he tried to hide them. Ted is going to revise the offer to take these into account and he’s decided that all inventory is going to be at another location.  All trust is now gone. He’s going to sell the shop quickly and give him the money for that but the inventory is going to go to a specialist auction and sold at a later date. However, there will be a reduction in his share to reflect the attempted duplicity.  Ted is looking forward to Brian and Justin!

MEL’S HOUSE - LATE AFTERNOON

MEL

So she’s no longer a lesbian, is she?! We split up at her instigation, did we?! I look around our, I mean my bedroom and smile.  Well in that case, she can have her personal effects back! I grab the first box and the bitchy bulldyke side of me wants to just fling it in the box but that’s exactly what she would do. She would want me to know how much I pissed her off. Well, I refuse to give Lindsay that power! So I take my time, meticulously folding it and making sure that she has no complaints. Once I do one wardrobe, I tackle the other and I can feel my mood lightening. This calls for wine!  

I have a nice glass of merlot in hand when I start on the art supplies. I can’t stop chuckling over the fact that she won’t be using them any time soon, if at all. There’ll be nobody in the Pittsburgh area that will hire her after Sidney gets the word out about her behaviour.  

I put my glass down and check my watch. I should be hearing from Ted soon.

Now that I have packed up everything for her, I move onto Gus’s room and open his toy cupboard. I now have the cleaning bug!  Rolling up my sleeves, I take out the numerous toys he has accumulated over the years and go stock still. Behind the toys are boxes of shoes, some handbags, and a load of clothes mostly with tags on. Some were bought in the last six months! No wonder she never wanted me sort out the toy cupboard.  A thankless task she called it and since you work so hard, let me do it; I remember her simpering tone all too well!

I’m about to call her to get an explanation, when Ted calls, the money is in. Shame that!

In fury, I stomp to the kitchen for some sharp scissors. Once I pile everything on the bed, I grab my calculator. I have no idea how long she’s stored these for but she’s spent almost $30,000 just on herself!  I want to scream but suddenly I have a better idea! I call Jennifer and she’s free. I tell her to bring Debs! After that, I call a removal van company and book it for early Monday morning. Then I put in a call to a locksmith for tomorrow morning, after they have taken the kids, of course!

MEL’S HOUSE - SATURDAY MORNING

MICHAEL

“I don’t understand why we can’t take her car though. It already had the seats in it!” I watch impatiently as Ben and Mel put the seats in his car. “You’re eating into our…”

“Because Ben’s car is bigger Michael.” Mel interrupts. “Now stop complaining and pack the picnic and buggy in the boot that way you can go the moment they are secured.  Lindsay, can you stop that? Gus is fine. I’ve dressed him for a day in the park before!  There, now you’re all set.” Mel smiles brightly.  “I’ll just get JR and you guys can go.”

Soon both children are strapped in and we’re off. “Where are we going?” I ask snippily. “I presume you have somewhere in mind since you suggested the picnic and sucked up to Justin with the park idea.”

“Twin Lakes Park. It’s about 40 minutes from here. It’s a great place to think and very kid friendly.”  He replies, without taking his eyes of the road. “Now, l’ve just got to pick up someone and then we will be on our way.”

When he stops to pick up Emmett, I’m incredulous. “Why are you coming?” I demand.

“I’m not coming on mommy and daddies’ day. I have a meeting in the area and Ben agreed to give me a lift.  Hey Gussy!”  

“Auntie Emmy Lou, hello!” Gus calls back, waving at him.  

“Lambskin, why do you call Ems that?” Lindsay asks. That’s what I’d like to know!

“Because he likes me to. Auntie Emmy Lou is funny.”

“Oh yes, he’s hilarious!”  I mutter to myself.

TWIN LAKES PARK

BEN

I have been relegated to the role of chauffeur. I’ve not been given an opportunity to hold JR and frankly, I’m getting sick of it. As Gus is looking very bored I grab the ball and take his hand.  “I’m just going to take Gus for a bit of a kick about. We’re just going to be over there.”

Michael waves us away as he continues to play with JR. Lindsay just nods, adjusting her sunglasses. Good to see she’s focusing on the bigger picture!  

I give Gus a piggyback and soon we’re involved in a rousing game of football with some other kids that were there. Gus has made a few new friends it seems, with some moms pressing their details into my hand for playdates some from dads too!

We decide to head back when I hear familiar barking and then someone shouts. “Coming your way!” I turn around just in time to be attacked by Frack!  

“Hey girl! How lovely to see you!”

“Uncle Ben, who’s that?” Gus asks shyly.

“This is Frack. She’s a very friendly and special dog that I know.  Isn’t she pretty?”

“Yes. Look there’s another one!” Gus grins as Frick comes bounding over.

“Ben, what on earth do you think you are doing?!” Michael shouts, storming towards us.

“Petting the dog Michael, what does it look like I’m doing?” I glare at him. “Let’s not make an unnecessary scene…”

“Unnecessary…! You don’t even know this animal and…”

“Hey dad!” Hunter shouts across to me and Michael’s not the only one surprised.

“What are you doing here? I thought you were meeting friends?” I give him a one shouldered hug. “Gus? Do you know who this is?”  I ask pointing at Hunter.

Michael rolls his eyes.  “Of course he…”

“Hunner.”

“Close little dude. It’s Hun-ter.” He hunkers down. “You having a good time with my dad?”  Gus nods enthusiastically.  

“Excuse me, Hunter!” Michael snaps. “But can you take those animals away from my son...I mean…”

“Wow Michael. Just wow.” Hunter snickers before turning to me. “Aren’t you glad you took it off now?”

“Yes, yes I am.” I reply. “Want to go play some more football, Gus?”

“Can I play with them instead? They tickle!”  He giggles.

“Hey Ben!  It is Ben, isn’t it?” I look up and the guy looks vaguely familiar but I’m not sure where I have seen him before. “You found him jogging and I picked him and you up.”

It takes me a few seconds to remember and smile.  “Ah yes!  I never did get your name.”

“Xavier.  Is he your kid?” He asks.

“No he isn’t.”  Michael snaps. “Come on Gus, we’ve got to go and eat now.” He takes his hand and Gus looks a little sad to be leaving us. “Whenever you’re ready to join us Ben, we’ll be waiting!”  

“Bye doggies! Bye Hunner!” Gus calls back as Michael leads him away.

“So you ready?”  Xavier asks me.

“Oh yeah, he’s more than ready!” Hunter laughs and runs off before I can cuff him round the head.

“Is that so?”

“Maybe.” I reply and we jog to catch up with my errant and embarrassing son!

Five missed calls later, I make my way back to them.  

“You’re back then.” Lindsay snipes, looking harassed as Gus is looking bored and starting to grumble. Michael is struggling to change JR’s nappy.

“Michael, take her to the baby changing unit over there; don’t change her out here! And Lindsay, I was gone for 45 minutes tops. Before that, I was playing with Gus while you were basking!” I bridle. “I take it you’re ready to go back now?”

“Yes.  We…”

“Mommy, we can’t go back! I want to pet the doggies!”  Gus cries, his eyes filling with tears.

“No Lambskin, you’ve just got clean. Now come on we’re going home to momma!”

OUTSIDE MEL’S HOUSE

LINDSAY

“Mel! Where are you? We’re outside, of course! I am respecting your wishes and not using my key! What do you mean, what are we doing back already? Six...I thought you said before six!” I look at Michael and he’s nodding in agreement. “Well can’t you come back?  Fine, well enjoy your day!”  

“Guys I have to go, I’ve got…”

“A date?! I notice you’ve taken your ring off!”  Michael snaps.

“Do you want a lift to where you need to be or not?”  He retorts.

“Yes Ben, that’s very kind of you.” I soothe, glaring at Michael. “Perhaps you could drop us off at Debs so that…”

“Ma would love to see them. Come on, let’s just go!”  Michael declares and goes to put JR back in the car when Ben stops him.  

“No, I’m not taking you there.” He asserts and then looks at his watch. “Make up your mind where you want to be dropped off.”

“Could you drop us off at my parents place? It’s near the…”

“That’s almost back the way we came!” He sighs crossly.

“Aww... shame you’ll have to reschedule your date, won’t you?” Michael really needs to shut up!

“I don’t know what to suggest.” I lament and hope that JR will go into a crying jag.

“Phoning Mel before leaving and not when you get back to her house would have been a sensible thing to do, for a start.” Ben bridles. I go to speak but he places a call instead.  “One minute, hey there it’s Ben, can you send the standard car round to Mel’s house, baby carrier and toddler with a booster seat, oh and a buggy.  How long?  Great thanks. Oh and it’s a cash fare.”

“A cab is on its way.” Ben tells us.  

“Uncle Ben, are you going now?”

“Yes Gus, I’ve got to go home now. So be a good boy for them and I’ll see you soon.”

“Tomorrow? Will I see you tomorrow at grandma and Uncle Carl’s?”  

“Yes, you will.”

“Goody because daddy and Jussin are back too.  Bye Uncle Ben.”

“Bye Gus.”

“Ben…”  I begin.

“Save it! You’ve not let me anywhere near JR today. In fact, you’ve treated me like the hired help! Well guess what... I quit! I’m going to speak to Mel about seeing JR, either on my own or I’ll share the day with her. There is no way I’m doing this with you two again!”

CAR JOURNEY BACK FROM NEW YORK - EARLY SUNDAY MORNING

JUSTIN

“Don’t stop, don’t you dare fucking stop!” I cry as Brian pounds into me. We’re face to face and I’m almost hitting my head on the door as I jolt forward with the force of his thrusts.  “Never stop, please!”

“I won’t! I. Will. Never. Stop!” He grabs me round the waist and pulls me tight to his pistoning hips and I almost go cross eyed as he hits my sweet spot hard and sharp.  “Fuck, you feel so good... as good as the first night!”  He growls. “Now it will only be me! Oh fuck Justin!”  

“Oh so...yes!”  I shout and spurt between our bellies, copious amounts dripping onto the insisted upon blanket. “Fuck! Keep fucking me!  Keep fucking me!”

“Anything for you. My husband. Any...oh shit fuck! Christ!” I feel like hot lava is pumping inside me, my thighs are trembling and I’m clawing at his ass and back. “Mark me! Show the world I’m yours!” He groans before he starts to thrust again but this time it’s slower, gentler, we slow down to rocking and languorously kissing. “Mine and only mine.”  He says between kisses.  

“Yours and only yours.” I gasp before the force of my orgasm hits me again and I black out.

An hour later, we both start to come round.  “Brian?” I mumble into his hair. “We need to find a shower; we can’t stay like this!”

“Mmm but I'm in my hot happy place.” He mumbles back and rolls his hips.

“Unnn! Brian! Come on…”

“That’s what I’m trying to do!” He snickers before lifting his head. “But you’re right, we are a mess.  Ruth is going to kill us if we get anything on the car.”

Slowly we peel ourselves apart and put on our sweats before driving to the hotel that Ruth had thought to book for us at each fuck stop.  I love that woman!

DEBS & CARL’S HOUSE - EARLY SUNDAY AFTERNOON

MEL

Everyone is glaring at Lindsay and Michael. I have told everyone how they behaved to Ben and nobody is happy. I dread to think what Brian is going to say, but I am looking forward to it!

But it’s Lindsay’s expression that is making me bite my cheeks! To say it was hilarious on Saturday is an understatement.

Start of flashback

MEL’S HOUSE - FRIDAY EVENING

MEL

Thirty minutes after the call, they’re here. I give them a glass of champagne each and lead them upstairs.  

“So here is what Lindsay deemed the support money was to be used for.” Like me, they are astonished at the amount she’s squirrelled away. “So ladies...take your pick!”

“You’re not serious?!” Debs gasps. “Some of this stuff is really expensive!”

“Yes, only the best for Lindsay. And yes, I’m absolutely serious. But you can’t have that tote; it’s mine.  Now come on, you know you want to…” I cajole.

Within minutes, we descended like vultures on carrion. What we didn’t take, we decided since it was late night shopping, Debs would stay with the kids, and we would take what we could back. I left it to Jennifer explain how she had simply forgot that she had them. Out of the 12 pieces, we got credit notes or refunds.  There is a beautiful suede coat but we couldn’t get a refund or credit note, but then Jennifer turned to me and said to leave it with her. So the only thing left of her support shopping is the boxes!

I said that we had to each wear a piece for dinner on Sunday and watch her squirm and seethe, knowing there is nothing she can do about it. Jennifer decides on a beautiful navy bias cut dress. Why Lindsay thought she could get away with this, I have no idea. It would have looked ludicrous on her. Debs took a few bags, one of which she’s going to leave it on the side so she can see it. As for me, I decided on the velvet and suede bomber jacket.

“So that’s Sunday sorted. What are we going to wear for lunch tomorrow? The country club has a strict dress code.” Jennifer grins evilly.

The next morning, I take the keys and tip the guy heavily for putting the original casing back on the front of the lock. I meet Debs and Jennifer at Eleven instead and took great pleasure of hiding in the bathroom when they came home early. But when I heard what Ben said before he left I was incensed... and made it my mission to tell everyone all about it!

End of flashback

DEBS

Jen had come in with a massive box and I looked at Mel but she just shook her head. “Mel, can you make sure I don’t forget to give this to Brian or Justin when they’re leaving?”

“Um sure, what’s in it?” She asks.

“This!” She opens the box with a flourish and inside is the coat from Friday and Lindsay’s eyes almost pop out of her head in fury.

“Who’s it for?” She asks.

“Ruth, I think it would be perfect on her, not only is a great cut but she would look so cool!”

“I agree absolutely!” Mel smirks and helps her put it back in the box.

I have to leave!  So I head to the kitchen and am unsurprised when Lindsay follows. “Debs, what a beautiful bag.  Where did you get it from?”

“A charity shop Jen knows. Amazing things in there. She got some choice pieces, including that coat and the jacket that Mel’s wearing.  As much as Jen liked it looks better on Mel than it did on her. That’s what I like about Jen, she knows what works for her and sticks with it. She dresses for the shape she is, not what she hopes to be.” I stick my face in the pot so that explains why my eyes are running.  “Ooh, peppery!” I sniff and reach for tissues to dab my eyes.

“And where is this charity shop?” She asks.  

“You’d need to speak to Jen. Like I said, she came with a shitload of stuff! I got a couple of bags.”

“Ooh look!  Big Bad and Baby are here!”  Ems calls out.

And now the shit really kicks off!

INSIDE THE CAR

BRIAN

I look down at my watch, my wedding watch, and reach for Justin’s hand. “Whose ass do we kick first?” I stroke his knuckles.

“Why do they insist on making life so difficult for everyone, including themselves?” He sighs crossly. “I mean, there’s mendacity and jealousy but come on!”  

“Because we, yes I’m including myself in this, have always let Michael…”

“What did we agree on about them when we’re alone?” He glares at me, eyes dancing.

“Of course, my mistake. Cinders and Crumpled have always been allowed to have their own way and…” I lean over to kiss him, my hole twitching as our tongues dance. At one fuck stop, he rimmed and fingered me for an hour. “As I said before, that shit stops now.”

“Mmm. Thank God for Daph and Ruth…”

“Yeah.”  

I laugh at the memory of how they reacted when we said how we were going to break the news to Jennifer. I don’t think I have ever seen two women look so scandalised at the thought that we were just going to call her and tell her. “We have modern technology. You will FaceTime now or Daph will keep your iPad and I will delete everything in the satnav!  We didn’t want to take the chance she was kidding!

“Shall we sit here a little longer? He must have gotten to fixed on door stare stage now and she’s most likely ready to unleash Gus?” Justin laughs bitterly.

“Um no, let’s get this done and then you can fuck me all over the loft.” I don’t think I’ve ever seen him leave a car so fast!

JUSTIN

“Get out of the car already!” I yell as I resist the temptation to slam the car door. As he gets out and comes around to my side, he drapes his arm across my shoulders.  “I think we should let Ted deal with Michael.”

“Me too. Let me text him quickly.”

We didn’t get to knock as the door is pulled open by Carl. “Thank God.” He mutters as he lets us in. “I was almost going to get my gun!”

“Daddy! Jussin!” Gus yells, running towards us. Brian scoops him up and he peppers kisses all over his face. “Now Jussin!”  He leans across to me and I take him from Brian.

“Gussy kisses!  Perfect!  Did you have a good time yesterday?”  I adjust him on my hip.

“Uncle Ben and I played football and I met some doggies; they were pretty!”

“Dogs?” Brian frowns.

“What did I say…”  Crumpled begins.

“Frick and Frack.” Ben interrupts. “They were with Hunter. We went to Twin Lakes Park.”

“Really? It’s supposed to be beautiful over there.” Brian tickles Gus. “Did you like the park Gus?” He nods. “Good, we’ll go again then. Is it time to eat? I’m starving.”

They are sulking, actually sulking, because he hasn’t said anything to them!  

“So how was New York? Did you get everything you needed accomplished?” Cinders, I mean Lindsay, asks.

“Absolutely.”  I reply coolly.

“Daddy, can I sit with you and Jussin?”  

“Of course Sonny Boy. You can sit between us. Mel, can you pass me his plate and stuff please?”

We eat with the usual bantering. Gus’s stream of chatter helps to calm us both down. After he eats, the combination of food and excitement starts to get to him and Brian takes him upstairs to bed. Mel follows with JR. They aren’t up there long.

Mom help Debs clear the table. She told me how she had to rally Debs to stop her from falling into old habits. I’m glad that they are friends again.

When Bri and Mel come back downstairs, I can see it in both of them. Ass-kicking time! It takes everything in me not to do my best impression of Em by squealing and clapping. I remind myself that I have to play this cool the way Brian’s partner… I mean husband should be.

“More wine?”  Carl asks and pours for those who want it.

“So what have you guys been up to?” Brian smiles around the table. “And by you guys, I mean you specifically, Emmy Lou?”

“Me? What about me?” He smiles...Okay what’s happening there?

“Sorry, not just you. You and Hunter.”

“I was asked a question, provided an answer and ensured that the objet d’affection was in the right place. Hunter did the rest.” He laughs. “Seriously, you are so oblivious!  Shameful for a gay man!”

“You set me up?!”  Ben gasps. “I’m…”

“Did it feel like a setup?”  Emmy Lou tilts his head, grinning

“No.”

“Then there’s your answer. It’s divine intervention. I’m divine and had to intervene! Otherwise, I wouldn’t worthy of being a gay man’s fairy godmother, now would I?” He smiles smugly.  

“Emmy Lou!” I laugh and then laugh harder at the highly fucked off expression on Crumple’s face. “So what else has been happening?” I ask, finally getting myself under control.  

“Why are you asking questions like you’ve not been around for ages?” He demands.

“We went to New York on Wednesday and got back this morning. So yeah, in your world, I guess that’s ages.” I snark.

“Wednesday?” Lindsay echoes. “Why weren’t we told?”

“And what business is it of yours? The children weren’t with them.” Mom is gimlet eyed.

“Supposing there was an emergency?” Michael glares at her.

“A procedure has been put in place between them and Mel to cover emergencies where the children, who again weren't with them, are concerned. But as a matter of interest, what constitutes an adult emergency for you, Michael? Is an emergency letting yourself into their loft to ask if Brian wants to go shoot some pool? But when finding them, in your mind, in flagrante delicto, you make it your mission to horn in on their vibe?”

“Horn in on their vibe?” Lindsay scoffs. “Are you trying to be trendy, Jennifer?”

“Are you trying to be straight, Lindsay?” Mom bites back. “After all, you ended things with Mel, didn’t you? Because you are no longer a lesbian…” Mom flicks her hair. “Well that’s what Lynette has been saying around the country club. The suitors will be queuing up.”

“Lynette is clearly mistaken! I don’t know where she got that misinformation from.”

“Your mother, who according to Lynette, said you told her. You must have said something to be back home. I mean, your problems with your parents and their acceptance of your sexuality, are well known around the club and the surrounding environs.”

Go mom!

“As I said, Lynette is mistaken!”

“Michael, are you happy with the figure with regards to the selling of the store and the apartment?” Ted asks. “If so, can you sign the agreement so that I can accept the offer?”

“Offer? You’ve had an offer? Why didn’t you tell me?” Michael snipes.

“Because not all parties were present and now they are.” He replies.

“Yes I am. This should help to pay support towards JR.” He looks at Debs, no doubt for praise, which is not forthcoming.

“Great, I have another copy. As discussed on the phone, we’re going to sell the toys separately, as we want a quick sale on the real estate. If you can double check it and sign, then I will arrange for an immediate transfer of the money.”

He reads through the paperwork and then signs. “Thank you. Give me two minutes and then check your account.”

“Money’s there. Mel, about the support. Now I…”

“Michael, our business is not concluded.” Ted states. “Now with regards to the inventory, please can you check the spreadsheet as we are sending them all to a specialist auction house…”

“What’s the difference?” He asks, taking the spreadsheet from him.

“We’ve had some offers on some pieces and with your extensive knowledge of the collectibles market, we want to be sure we’re getting the right price. Back page.”

The arrogant expression falls from his face as he reads the back page. “Ted…”

“Yes, is there a problem?”  

“These weren’t on the original spreadsheet. They aren’t mine. You need to take them off! I was holding them for… for a friend.”

“They’re not yours? So that would be why they were here and at Ben’s? In that case, you need to give me the owner’s name so that I can send them to him.”

“What do you mean send them to him?  Where are they?!”

“Secure location. Name and address, please?”

“I can’t remember off the top of my head. I need to…”

“Come up with a slightly more convincing lie?” Ted interjects. “You have had these with Ben and Debs for years, so the holding it for a friend is not going to work. As a consequence of your actions, as per the agreement, all monies received in respect to these toys will now be split 80/20, in favour of Kinney-Taylor Enterprises.”

He whirls to face Ben. “Why did you give them to them?!”  

“Because I told him to.” Debs retorts. “I got sick and tired of clambering over your boxes in the room. The funny thing is that Hunter was bringing them to you but I called him back because I wanted to make sure that Brian and Justin knew about them.”

“You fucking did this?!” He rails at her.

“Hey, watch your mouth!” Carl spits out. “And the person that did this is you! By lying yet again!”

He is silent for a few minutes. “How about I buy these particular pieces back from you?”

Silence.

“No. All pieces will be sent to auction.” Ted replies, after getting the nod from Brian. “And besides, they’ve been evaluated and you wouldn’t be able to afford them and pay support for JR too.”

“You do remember JR, don’t you?” Mel’s voice drips with sarcasm. “Your daughter.”

“I want to discuss this with Brian and only Brian!”

“No.” Ted retorts. “I am representing Kinney-Taylor Enterprises in this transaction. So you have to deal with me or not at all.”

“If I tear this up, then the transaction is null and void.” Michael sneers, focusing his ire on Ted instead of me for once.  

“What does…”

“For the love of fuck!” Debs explodes. “They’re gone!  Accept it and move on!  Your daughter is supposed to be your focus, so fucking focus!”

We all look at Debs in astonishment.  

“But…” Michael begins to whine.

“One more, just one more word on this and I will make what Jen did feel like a tickle!” Debs hisses back. For a minute or two, he stares at her with an expression of disbelief and resentment. “Want me to smack that look off your face?!”

“Please say yes, just so I can hold you down.” Blake begs.

“Let’s move on from this!” Carl orders.

“Yes let’s.” Mel is trying not to laugh. I have to admit this shit is better than my mom’s old soap operas from back in the day. “So Ben and I have been talking and we’ve agreed to share my times with the kids, instead of him going with the two of you after yesterday’s debacle. And…”

“No! He doesn’t get to see JR without me!” Michael regains his whine.

“Or Gus without me.” Lindsay pipes up.

“Ben was the only one that engaged Gus in anything yesterday. He couldn’t stop talking about the football and the dogs. Lindsay on a bright sunny day, you had him sitting on a mat bored out of his mind. And Michael, considering the bank account Ben setup for JR, he has more than earned his right to be with her without you.”

“Bank account?” Debs looks at Ben. “What bank account?”

“It’s not much. Only a hundred a month, but…”

“Stop.” Debs gets up and walks over to him. “Stand.” She orders and he does so. Then he finds himself pulled into a tearful vice like hug. “I’m so sorry!” She weeps. “For everything, so sorry!”

Ben looks helplessly around the table and between them, Ems and Carl manages to wrestle Debs off him. Mom goes with her to get her cleaned up.

“How long has he been paying that?” Michael asks, his voice laced with resentment.  

“It’s down to Ben to tell you but let’s just say, you have a lot of catching up to do.” Mel retorts then she turns to Lindsay. “Now, how do you propose to pay your portion of the child support?”

“My portion?” She blenches. “I’m Gus’s birth mother remember?!”

“You no longer reside in the same home. Remember, that was your choice? Therefore, you have to contribute to his welfare.”

“I don’t have a job!” She snarls, glaring malevolently at me.

“Which is your fault! So to remedy the situation, get off that flat ass and find one!” Mom berates her.

“How dare you speak to me like that?!” Lindsay hisses.

“How dare you try to ruin my son’s relationship?!” Mom hisses back.

“Everyone be quiet!” Emmy Lou orders. “And you two sit down.” He scratches the back of his head thoughtfully before looking at me, then Brian and then at me again.

Please Emmy please!

EMMY LOU

Well I’ll be damned! They’ve only gone and done it! I look at Baby and wink and he almost sags in relief. Not my news to tell!

“So, are we done with the fighting?” I look round the table and the protagonists nod, some of them reluctantly. “Good. Now that piece of loveliness, where did you get it? Have you been spoiling yourselves?”

“What are you babbling about?” Michael gripes.

“The car.” I keep a lid on my retort because I suspect my Ruthie’s influence. “It’s gorgeous.”

“No, sadly. It’s not mine. I’ve just borrowed it from Ruth.” Brian sighs. “I’m working on making that permanent though.”

“Oh you are, are you?” Justin turns to him. “You don’t have a chance in hell of that happening.”

“If Brian wants something badly enough, he’ll get it.” Michael brags.

“Nice of you to finally see the light.” Justin drawls.

“Oh very good!” I giggle.

It takes Teddy no time at all to get it and he starts to laugh.

“What’s so fucking funny?” Michael demands.

“Think about what you just said. You know, about Brian wanting something badly enough to get it?” I pause and wink again at Justin. “Would you say that it applies to every area of his life?”

It takes a few moments for Michael to catch up. “Just because he wants it, that doesn’t make it the right choice!” He’s as angry as, my Aunt Lula would say, a snake that bit its own tongue!

“But it’s his choice. So that makes the choice right.”  I decree.

“So why did you need to go New York so early?” Lindsay interrupts, smoothly. “Was there a problem with Brown Athletics?”

“Because we wanted to.” Justin replies shortly. “And yes, Mel was aware of it.” Two sets of eyes look accusingly at her. “It was a lovely drive.”  

“Drive!” I exclaim. “You drove to New York. Why?”

“And back.”

“That’s great but again, why?” I prompt and Justin gets it as I’m about to explode. He looks at Brian.

“We got married and had a mini honeymoon.” Brian kisses Justin’s hand. “And after some deep, deep persuasion, he’s agreed to our surname being Taylor-Kinney. So Ted you need to sort that out for us.”

Mel is the first person to speak. “Married? You got married?”

“Yes. But fear not Emmy Lou; you can cater the blessing still.” Brian answers.  

I’m blubbering too much to do anything but nod.

“To everyone getting what they deserve, that was your toast on Saturday. This is what you meant, wasn’t it?” Mel asks looking at Jennifer, who nods and dabs her eyes. “When did you guys get spliced?”

“Thursday morning. We got lucky. There was a cancellation so we went for it.”

“Guys, I am so happy for you!” Ben exclaims, getting up to shake their hands.

“Happy enough to be an usher? Along with Hunner?” Justin asks. The joke about Hunter’s name still has me giggling. “Daph is going to be my best woman.”

He looks stunned. “Us?! Are you... absolutely! It would be an honour! Let me call him and tell him!” He runs to the back garden and I feel sure that Hunter could hear him, without the phone!  He comes in grinning. “Hunter says fuck yeah!”

“So Ted that leaves you and Carl being my ushers.” Brian looks adorably uncertain.

Teddy just nods and Carl just stares. “Me? You want me to be an usher?” He stammers.

“Yeah. You’ve been good to my mom and to me. So what do you say?”

“Yes son.  I say yes.” He manages to choke out.

“So you really going to make me ask?” He asks Debs quietly.

“Oh!” She starts to sob. “Kiddo…yes. Yes.”

“Brian, will we be going to the same place for lunch? Like last time?”  Michael asks.

“No. Because you’re not going to be my best man. Like Justin, I’m picking my true best friend and that’s Ruth. And before you ask Lindsay, no you’re not involved either. We only want people who are supportive of our marriage involved in our blessing ceremony.”

Lindsay’s jaw drops and Michael just stares at him.

“And now that Justin has full parental rights, a word of warning. Don't try to keep Gus away from the ceremony. I will not be happy.” Brian’s tone is lethal. “Justin is my husband, the love of my life and Gus’s stepfather...you fuck with him then you fuck with us.”

Nobody says a word!

CHAPTER 18 - PARENTAL STYLES.  BLAKE SPEAKS AND SO DOES RUTH

JENNIFER

“Carl, may I have some more wine please?” Emmy asks, holding out his glass.

“Sure. Actually, I think we need to do champagne. Debs, do we have some?”

“No, but that’s easily sorted. Ben, can you collect Hunter and some champagne? He should be here; he’s family and part of the wedding party.”

“Emmy Lou, can you go with him?” Justin asks, reaching for his wallet. “You know what we like.”

“Of course Baby. Both I think. Now nobody is to have a meltdown while we’re gone! Ben, call Hunter now that way we can grab and go. I’m not sure how long they can hold it together!”

“Don't worry, Emmy. I’ll record anything that happens!” Blake calls out.

The door closes on both of them guffawing, which seems to bring them out of their near catatonic state.

“Brian?” Lindsay’s eyes fill with tears. “Please Peter... I know I have made mistakes but this will be your special day and…”

“There is no more Peter. And it was Thursday.” Brian interrupts sharply.

“What about it?” She snivels.

“Thursday was our special day. The day of the blessing is mainly for Gus as I promised him he could carry the rings. Oh, can you ring Ruth?”

Justin frowns and then giggles, shaking his head. “Only you. Hey Ruth, we’re at Debs and Carl’s. Can you come? No, there is nothing wrong with the car! Okay, where are you? Blake, can you call Emmy and ask them to pick up Ruth? She’s at Delicious Foods. Oh and actually, can you grab champagne? Blake, tell Emmy that Ruth’s on it.”

“Excuse me a minute.” Mel gets up as JR starts to cry but she pauses. “Care to bring down your son, Justin, as he will most likely have woken up?”

Justin nods and follows her up. The room descends into silence. Michael still hasn't said anything; he’s just staring ahead.

“Brian, please can you reconsider your decision?” Lindsay asks and Brian’s face hardens instantly. “No, I don't mean that! I mean not letting me be involved in it. I want to help you…”

“Us.”

“Yes of course, I mean you both. I want you both to have the day that…”

“Emmy is going to make the day perfect for us, thank you. And even if he wasn't, you still wouldn't be involved.” Justin tells her as he brings a still slightly sleepy Gus to me to hold.

My grandson! He’s my grandson...mine!

“Brian, why are you doing this to me?” Michael finally speaks, his voice full of whine and pitiful patheticness.

“Doing what to you?” He asks, sipping on the remains of his red and I can see the tightening of his hand on the glass. Then I see the little fire in Michael’s eyes.

“Cutting me out of your life! I’ve been nothing but…”

“A meddlesome, bothersome, crashing boar?” Blake asks.

“Cut that out!” Debs snaps.

“Thank you Ma. At least someone…”

“Not Blake, I mean you!” She glowers at him. “Stop pushing his buttons!”

Michael looks angrily at her then stands up. “Excuse me, I need some air.”

“Perhaps it will jump start your heart to show happiness for your best friend!” Blake shoots daggers at his back as he leaves.

“Uh, thanks Blake.” Brian looks surprised. I don’t think he’s ever been defended by Blake.

“You’re welcome.” Blake smiles at him.

Staring out of the window, he turns to Justin. “I suppose I should…”

“Yeah, you should.” He replies quietly.

BACK GARDEN

MICHAEL

I don’t believe it! I won’t believe it! I wait and sure enough the door opens. I try to hide the smile as the back door opens. I fold my arms and wait for him to speak.

“I suppose this is the moment where you pretend not to be smirking at his capitulation. Well keep pretending. He’s asking Ruth to be his best woman so he could be a while.” Justin calls out before shutting the door firmly.

Two minutes later, the door opens again and this time I turn round to give Boy Wonder a piece of my mind, but it’s Lindsay. “Well what do you think of that, then?”

“What do you think I think?!” I whisper harshly at her. “This is farcical! But for him to boot us out of…”

“Champagne’s being popped!” Emmett calls through the door.

“We’ll talk tomorrow. And believe me, we have a lot to talk about! Meanwhile, let’s make nice and supportive!”

LOUNGE

As we head back inside, everyone has moved from the dining table and Gus is now in his stepfather’s arms. He’s holding a watch like it’s the Holy Grail.

“Look mommy! Daddy and Daddy Justin have matching wedding watches. Daddy Justin said I could get one for the wedding.”

“That’s nice, Lambskin. May I have a look?”

“You can look but I’m going to hold it. It’s very special.” Gus wiggles out of his arms and comes over with it. “It’s going to get special writing on the back.”

I look at the watch and gasp. It looks very expensive.

“Uh Brian, I don’t want to seem like I’m…” Lindsay starts.

“Not that watch Lindsay. We said he is getting a watch.” Brian interrupts a bit too sharply for my liking.

“Are you going to come down or not?!” Emmett shouts up the stairs.

“What’s going on?” I ask Lindsay and she shrugs.

“For crying out loud, hold your horses! Looking this cool takes time!” Ruth shouts back down.

Mel is giggling about something as she comes down the stairs. “Oh Jen, you were so right about that coat. It’s perfection but where did you find that other bag? Same charity shop?”

“Yes. Whoever put those in there must have been having a mass clear out.” She ruffles Gus’s hair as he makes his way back to Step-Boy Wonder.

“Okay Debs, are you absolutely sure about this?” Ruth comes down, wearing the coat that Jennifer had shown us earlier but she also has a leather bag.

“Oh yes, absolutely sure honey! This is the least I can do!” Ma is sniffling. “You’ve made my boy so happy!”

NO SHE FUCKING HASN’T!!

“So what do you think, ladies? Actually skip that, what do you think Emmy?”

“I think whoever got rid of this is a fool, but it is perfection. The bag is big enough for all your knick-knacks “

“So Ruth, I take it you’ve agreed to be Brian’s best woman during his blessing ceremony?” Lindsay asks her. “It must have been a surprise to be asked. I had no idea you and Brian were so close.”

“Known him since I was seven. Used to be in the same neighbourhood. Been friends, despite some folks’ best efforts, ever since.”

“Seven? You mean you met her before you met me?” I gape at Brian. “You never said anything. I mean, when we first met her...”

“Wasn’t aware I should’ve done so. It wasn’t particularly your business.” He replies. “But now you know so there you go.”

“Daddy Justin, am I with you and daddy next weekend?”

“Yes Gus, you are.” The smile he gives him is huge. “But we won't be at the loft. We will be somewhere else.”

“Where? You can’t have him at Britin.”  Lindsay points out.

“Lindsay, he will be with his fathers on their weekend. You had yours and they never demanded to know where you were going.” Ted retorts.

“Ted, this conversation has nothing to do with you so if…”

“And their weekend plans with my grandson have nothing to do with you.” Ma tells her.

“I’m Gus’s mother! I have the right to know where he is!” She repeats. “So where are you taking him, Brian?”

“We’ve not decided yet but it will involve shopping. Mel, I understand that Gus’s toy cupboard has a lot more space now.” Brian smiles at Mel, who is shaking with laughter. “Whatever should we fill it with, clothes, shoes or bags? You know things that a growing boy needs.”

Now Ma, Jennifer, Ruth and Emmy are laughing.

“What’s so funny?” I ask but nobody answers me. “I asked what is so damn funny?!”

“Nothing, nothing at all.” Mel replies, having composed herself. “Right Gus, you need to say goodbye. You’ve got school and you need to have a bath.”

“But momma…”

“Gus.” Brian hunkers down to him. “You have to be a good big boy and go home. Then you can be one sleep closer to seeing us next weekend for our boys’ weekend.”

“So how many sleeps until I see you both?”

“After this one, it will be five or if you are good all week for momma and at school, it could be four…”

“Bye daddy, bye daddy Justin!  Come on momma!”

“Uh Gus, slow down. JR isn't ready yet.”  Mel laughs.

“See daddies, I wanted to go but JR…”

“Gus, is what you’re going to say going to be kind about JR?” Justin asks sternly and the room goes quiet. I can feel Lindsay’s anger.

“No, daddy Justin.” Gus replies quietly.

“What have I told you about being kind about JR as she’s so little and can’t do things for herself?”

“I should be patient as I was the same when I was that little.” He looks at the floor and is quiet for a while. “Sorry, daddy Justin.”

“Good boy Gus.”

“C-can I still come and see you at the weekend?”

“Now look what you’ve done!” I snap at him.

“Michael, be quiet! Justin has got this!” Carl lectures me.

OF COURSE HE DOES! HE CAN DO NO FUCKING WRONG!

“Gus.” Boy Wonder picks him up and sits him on his lap. “Of course, you’re still coming to see us. Why on earth would you think you’re not?”

“Be-because before when I’ve been bad and said sorry, I still got punished.” He whispers.

“Well that’s not going to happen from now on.” Justin looks at Brian, who nods. “I think the one thing we need to discuss is how we discipline the children so it’s consistent.”

“Now just a minute! You aren’t going to discipline JR!”

“Mom, can you take Gus upstairs for me please?”

“Of course sweetheart; Debs come with me. And Mel, how about we bathe the children? Debs has PJs here right?  That way they can go straight to bed when they get home?”

“Please, that would be perfect.”

As they go upstairs, Boy Wonder turns to me. “Nobody said anything…”

“She is not your daughter and you don’t get a say!” I remind him sharply.

“And Gus is not your son and you don’t get a say!” Hunter snaps back.

“What are you talking about?” Emmett looks between Hunter and me.

“When he was behaving like the asshole he is yesterday, he told me to take his son away from the dogs.”

“Oh you did, did you? Funny how you can suddenly play daddy for anything that relates to Brian, isn’t it?” Blake starts in again at me.

TED

“What is your problem?!” Michael demands.

“You don’t let him breathe!” He yells back. “You behave like Brian can’t function without you but he can. But you won’t let him because truth be told, you can’t function knowing he’s not going to be your backup plan!”

“Blake, you’re new to the family, so you don’t…” But Blake’s certainly not done.

“And you’re even worse!” He whirls around to face Lindsay, who was about to pacify and criticize as she usually does. “You drip sugar and spice and all things nice but you stab him in the back and pour acid in the wound. How dare you abuse him like that? Yes, it is abuse! Debs said it earlier to stop pushing his buttons and you two know just which ones they are. Brian has a tell, when he just wants it to stop. I want everyone to know this so you can watch out for it and back the fuck off…”

“He grips...” Ruth interrupts and Justin nods. “We got you. Ease on up, sweetheart.”

I watch as Brian, the guy who I have been at first hateful and jealous of and now have a deep affection in a completely non-sexual way for, loosens his hold on his glass and watches the whiteness of his knuckles fade.

“Haven’t heard that for years.” His voice is quiet.

“She used to say it to him all the time.” Ruth pours him another glass of wine. “I’ll get you home, and yes you can have the car for a week to make sure it works practically.”

“Who did?” Carl asks.

“My mom. She used to say it when we were on the verge of losing it.”

“Well, thank you for that trip down memory lane.” Lindsay’s showing her true colours once again.

“And there’s the acid. You just can’t bear it, can you? To your mind, it’s bad enough that Justin has talent but is not taking advantage of it the way your inner-Stage Mother wants him to. But now you’re sitting there thinking one thing and one thing only...” Blake is firing on all cylinders. “And that’s, did he fuck her?”

“We did not fuck, thank you very much!” Ruth bridles.

“Oh and why ever not?” Michael sneers.

“Because we made love. Sober and more than once.” She turns to Justin. “Seriously, how do you sit after that?!”

“Depending on how rampant he’s been...carefully! Very carefully!”

“Speaking of rampant...” Brian takes Justin’s glass and puts it on the table. “You need to make love to me all over the loft. Let’s go!”

CAR BACK TO THE LOFT - 30 MINUTES LATER

BRIAN

“Stop it! Stop! Stop making that face!” I gasp about between guffawing.

“Oh God! Oh! I can’t wait to tell my mom this!” Justin is almost heehawing as we make our way home. Our legs are entwined in the middle of the back seat and I’m pulling the hairs on his calf to stop him from mimicking their expressions. “Ouch, okay stopping! But their faces! What on earth made you say that?!”

“Ah, she was fucking me off! But you were on it!” Ruth manages to get out between laughing and coughing. Another childhood reminder, sometimes she would laugh so much she’d have a coughing fit.

“Sweeties! That has got to be the funniest thing I have ever heard. We made love, sober and more than once from a woman talking about Big Bad!” Emmy is in the front seat, cackling like only he can.

We settle down to recover from the laughing jag before Emmy turns to me. “I’m sorry Brian.”

“What for?”

“I used to tease you about your white knuckle clutch. Obviously not when you could hear me but I had no idea…”

“So, um Blake…”

“Hey don’t swerve it. You might not like you but we do.” Ruth berates me. “But yeah Blake, no prizes for guessing who’s topping tonight!”

And she’s off coughing and laughing.

CHAPTER 19 - CLINGING ONTO THEIR DELUSIONS...UNTIL SHE DESTROYS THEM

PETERSON RESIDENCE - MONDAY LUNCHTIME

KITCHEN

MICHAEL

After last night’s clusterfuck, we’re still trying to digest the change in Brian’s personality. He has to have been hypnotised! That must be it because the old Brian would never have treated or spoken to us like that!

“Do you think it’s true?” Lindsay looks up at me. “That they’re married, I mean? No, hear me out for a minute. Where are their rings? Who gets wedding watches? I think he’s winding us all up and the real marriage is in a couple of months’ time.”

“But why?” She twists her mouth in puzzlement.

“Why do you think? Boy Wonder’s ego! He asked him, remember? So what if he tried to persuade him to get married while they were away and Brian said no because of Gus, and of course, us!”

“Of course!” Lindsay crows. “And we fell for it! Oh, let’s go along shall we and be supportive etc.”

“And as for Ruth’s comments...”  I laugh. “As if he would do it with her!”

“Exactly! And you know what else? No date for the blessing ceremony. He doesn't lie. But he does, for fuck alone knows what reason, want to keep Boy Wonder about. But with Rathman show coming soon that will change. In fact, I need to place a call. I got him to do one show; I can get him to do the other two with some...oh now, how's that for fortuitous coincidence?” She smiles as her phone rings. “Sidney?”

She lets it ring for a bit longer. “Sidney, good afternoon. I’m okay, yourself? Good. Yes I can come and see you this afternoon anytime. Okay, see you at four.”

“What's happening then?” I have to smile as she looks very cheerful.

“Wants to see me. Seems someone may have to eat humble pie and I fully intend to serve him a big slice! You expecting anyone?” She asks as the doorbell rings.

“No, want coffee?”

“Yes please.”

As I pour coffee for us both, I hear her voice rising. So I go to see what is happening.

“What’s going on?” I ask as removal men start unloading boxes.

“Mel has sent my things and Ben has sent yours.” She spits. “Well fuck that! We’re not going to react like they want us to. We’ll just send our thanks and that’s it.”

“Ben? No, more likely it was Hunter. He’s always been jealous of our relationship. And now that JR is my sole focus, he’s poisoning Ben against me. Him and Emmett setting him up on that date, for example.”

We just shake our heads at the behaviour of those two, who are supposed to be parents!

THE LOFT

KITCHEN

JUSTIN

Brian is attempting to make a soufflé, but I’m distracting him by thrusting my fingers up his ass and stroking his cock at the same time. “You’re whisking when you should be folding.”

He lets out a groan. “Wh-what’s the difference?”

“The cutting through the mixture and the speed. Tell you what, you keep in rhythm with me.” I slow my thrusting and stroking. “When I stroke your cock, plunge the spatula gently into the mixture and when I touch you right here…”

“Daaaammmnnn.” He growls and his legs tremble with an effort to stay upright.

“Then fold the mixture gently back over itself. The trick is not to over beat.”

He looks over his shoulder at me, his eyes smouldering with lust. I nod my head in the direction of the bowl. He turns back and I kiss the middle of his back and start to stroke as he tightens his grip on the handle.

“That's it, plunge in and now fold.” I stand on my tiptoes so it changes the angle of my fingers and he presses back against me as I flick his slit.

“Ch-Christ!” He throws his head back, the folding temporarily forgotten.

“Concentrate on lunch or…” I start to pull my fingers out.

“Co-concen-tr-trating.” He grinds out, forcing his hand to move.

I place sucking kissing down his spine and get on my knees.

“Oh whoa! C-can’t do this and you do that at the s-s-same time.”

“You can…” I call softly up to him. “You’re Brian Taylor-Kinney, the Legendary but Abdicating Stud of Liberty Avenue. Now turn around…”

His indelicate snort has me looking up. “Little difficult with your fingers where they are…”

“Good point…” I slide them slowly out and his legs shake with the effort of holding off. “Such superb control.”

“Only for you. But hurry up twat, the mixture is going down.”

“As long as that’s the only thing, then that’s fine. Spread your legs for me, hold the bowl in the crook of your elbow and keep in rhythm.” I order and wait for him to get the bowl in position.

At the same time as I swallow him down, I reinsert my fingers, slowly opening him up.

“Y-you never said...oh fuck!” He lets out a gutsy groan and the spatula rattles against the bowl. I stop as he takes a couple of breaths, before nodding for me to continue.  

As I swirl my tongue around his bulbous head, the only sounds to be heard are of him folding the mixture and his whimpering. He starts to thrust his hips but I pull my fingers out a fraction.

“S-sorry but...can this p-please be done? Don’t think…”

The bowl flies out of his hands as I thrust and suck hard at the same time. “Holy mother of Christ!” He reaches down and tangles his hands in my hair so he takes control and starts to thrust his hips. “You w-wonderful m-man. Oh god yes! Like that! Let me... do it like that!”

I relax my throat and he slides down deeper. His whole body is shaking and he’s almost pulling my hair out.  

“Unnnnh! Nowwwww!” He yells and clamps down on my fingers and throbs in my throat. I can’t help it but I come seconds afterwards, spraying all over his ankles. As I withdraw my fingers, he slides out of my mouth before dropping to his knees to kiss me and taste himself.

“What’s wrong? What is it?” I pull his trembling body into my arms and kiss away his tears.

“Nothing, everything is perfect. But next time you make the soufflé.”

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

BEN’S OFFICE

BEN

I can’t help but laugh and call Mel. “Did you get a text from Lindsay? How it must have hurt to type that! It goes against their very nature of spitting and spewing venom while stomping their feet. So what was her face about yesterday? Seems every time you mentioned clothes or bags, she seemed to twitch...”

I listen disgusted, but unsurprised, by her behaviour. She and Michael have the same grasping mindset. “I’ve just had a thought about the store. I paid part of his mortgage. Do you think I would be...you do? Well no, I paid the mortgage. He never contributed. Yes, I can prove that I paid it to him. So send it to Ted? Okay, thanks Mel. And don’t be surprised if you get more texts during the run up to the Boys’ Weekend!”

I pull up my bank statements and start to prepare an email to Ted. Two hours later, he emails me back. There’s going to be an auction of their collectibles and they will pay me back from his share. He’ll be delighted to hear that!

BLOOM GALLERY - LATE AFTERNOON

LINDSAY

I turn up just a minute late for my appointment with Sidney. Cameron, our PA, greets me slightly coldly.

“Sidney won't be long.”

Just as I’m about to sit down, his office door opens. “Ah, Lindsay come in.”

I take a seat opposite and smile at him. “As you know Lindsay, I hold you personally in high regard, which is why I thought it was better this way. I didn’t want you to have to do this in front of your former colleagues.

Former colleagues?! And do what?!

“I had Cameron go through your desk and clear everything out. So if you could look through it all to make sure everything you own is there... Obviously, we took the business cards and anything that seemed like it belonged to Bloom. But if you feel it doesn’t, then we can look through it together. Also, we would need the laptop and cell returned immediately. And I believe that you have some slides from the last project on Post-Modernism; we would need them at the same time. Take your time…” He indicates a large box on the table.

This was not what I expected him to call me in for! I head to the box and look through it. My years here have been broken down to some paltry things. As I check it carefully, my mind goes back to how things were before he stopped listening and didn’t do as he was told!

“Lindsay?” I look up startled to find Sidney standing next to me. “I asked you why you did what you did.”

I sigh. “Justin is wasting his talent here…” I begin.

“Not Justin. Why single out Miles? He’s already had a show in Boston. That’s why Rathman asked for him.”

“He did? When was that?” He looks incredulously at me. “What? I didn’t know about him. He’s not really my genre.” I reply in as blasé a tone as I can muster.

“Renaissance Expressionism is no longer your genre? I am surprised. But then again, people’s tastes change all the time. I still don’t understand why you messed with Miles’ career if you didn’t know anything about him. Did you just pick him out of the hat or…”

“Miles, of course! Yes, I remember now. It wasn’t so much as picked but like you said he already had a show. His works, while very good, aren’t the calibre of Justin’s and…”

“Well it’s in the past now. Can I have the cell, please?”

“Now? But I have my private numbers on it!” I exclaim. “I would need to go through it. And then there’s…”

“The emails and business contacts remain the property of Bloom Gallery. So you would need to go through it with Cameron or you could keep the phone and pay us the market value for it. Obviously, the emails and business contacts would still be removed. Which would you prefer? It shouldn’t cost that much since it’s an older version and we’ve recently upgraded.”

“I’ll go through it with Cameron. Shall I schedule that time with him and then bring it in with the laptop?”

“No. Your previous position meant you were privy to sensitive information. Sadly, you proved just how you would use it. We need to protect our clients and ourselves.”

“But Sidney…” I begin in a placating tone. “You know me. I made one mistake and…”

“I thought I knew you and you made two mistakes. Now Cameron is waiting for you.”

I pick up my box and head out to speak to Cameron but turn back to Sidney. “You know Justin is doing the Rathman show? But it’s only one, which is silly really.”

“He’s doing all three of them.” Seems over the weekend, he had a change of heart. Goodbye Lindsay.”

Two hours later, I’m rushing to meet Michael at Woody’s. I cannot wait to tell him what Sidney’s told me. For once, Michael is right! They are not married. No fucking way would they get married and then he go away for months! Especially since they’re monogamous...Brian couldn't hack it!

WOODY’S

LINDSAY

I wave at Michael and he has ordered the drinks as I asked. “Well, what’s got you looking like the cat who’s got the cream?”

“You were right!” I clink his bottle. “About them not being married. Justin is doing all three Rathman shows.” He starts to smile. “Because the third show involves a three month residency and a show in California! Can you imagine them being married and being monogamous? As if, especially Brian!”

“And Boy Wonder will cheat on him again!” He points out, clinking my glass.

“Here’s to getting Brian back! Okay, so I lost my job at Bloom but it was worth it for the greater good. Justin will be where he needs to be on the world stage and…” I trail off as he’s glaring behind me. So I turn around to see who he’s looking at. It’s Ruth and she’s with Emmett.

“She needs to be had a word with, too!” He hisses about Ruth. “In fact, why don’t we book her now?” I nod and he calls the office. Voicemail, he mouths at me.

The expression on his face changes from smug to stormy. Then he hangs up and swears.

“What's wrong?” I ask as she and Emmett move out of sight.

“Office is closed. If you want to arrange a pick up, please contact your assigned driver directly!” He parrots.

“So what’s the problem? Let’s go and contact her directly. I think she and Emmett went to the other side of the bar. Come on!”

We take our drinks and make our way through the crowd. At first, we can't find them but then I hear his familiar laugh. As we approach the table, we’re surprised to find Hunter and Carl with them.

“Ruth.” She looks up at me with contempt. “We’d like for you to take us home in the next half an hour. So I would suggest you make that your last.”

The table goes quiet and all eyes turn to her as she slowly stands and then looks at the guy approaching the table next to her. “Excuse me, what’s the strongest drink you got there?” He raises one glass and hands Hunter some money “Can he get you another and I have that one?”

The guy looks at Emmett. “She good for it?”

“Yeah.” Emmett tells him and he hands her the drink and she turns back to us.

“Well, you need to speak to Mr Taylor-Kinney or Mr Taylor-Kinney with regards to your status with their account. But they have said that I can tell you to fuck off, eat shit and die with regards to you coming anywhere near my cars.”

“How dare you speak to us like that?!” Michael barks. “Wait till Brian hears about the way you’ve spoken to us!”

“He won’t care. Especially since I got him married…”

“You got him what?” Emmett gasps. “Explain, Lucy!”

“I was driving them to the airport and they were bitching about how people kept interfering and offering their opinions or other such shit.” She looks at us scathingly. “So I merely pointed out that it’s them getting married; so they should just get married in New York. They just needed a judge, 24 hours and a licence. So that’s what they got. The wedding brunch was great. Though you were a great help, Lindsay.”

“What do you mean?” I demand confused.

“Well because of your insistence on trying to send Justin to New York all the time, he got a place there, which Daphne lives in. Oh and by he, I really mean they. So that took care of the residence part and…” She starts to laugh. “How desperate must you be to cling on to the very slim hope that they’re not married but trust me they are. I’ve seen the licence. Although you won’t unless you’re in the loft or at Britin. Or even on the non-existent chance that you’re invited to the ceremony. You see, the thing with them being married is that they don’t need your permission to bring Gus to the ceremony as he is their son. It will be three parents against one. You will continue your losing streak.”

“And that goes for you too, daddy!” Hunter looks Michael up and down. “I’m looking forward to the weekend. Just Mel, Ben, me and JR bonding as a unit. Yeah, looking forward to that. Ben will actually get to hold her!”

“So how was your day, Lindsay?” She asks, taking me, and judging by the frowns, everyone else, by surprise.

“Fine. Why do you ask?”

“You sure? You sure you didn’t take delivery of all your personal effects and scream like a fishwife on your parents’ front steps as box after box was unloaded onto their lawn. Wherever are you going to put it all? And how was your meeting with Sidney? I bet you swanned in there thinking you’re the... now what was the phrase I heard you say about someone, Michael? Oh yes, the big I am but you ended up like the big am not. Because you didn’t get your job back like you anticipated…”

“He had…” I protest as Emmett and Carl laugh. They fucking laugh!

“Who had? Who told me? You see the advantage to being me and being liked is that people talk to me. The disadvantage of you two of being you two and disliked is that people talk to me about you and with great relish. Your Schadenfreude Stock is high. And Michael your squash is coming...don’t think you’ve got away with fucking over Ben the way you did! He’s finally grown a set and he’s coming a-calling.” She regards me again taking a sip of her drink. “It’s killing you, isn’t it? You have an itch to throw that over me and this absolutely fabulous suede coat but you daren’t because you know damn full well how much it cost and that I will come after you for it to be cleaned with everything I’ve got. And I’ve got a lot! You have no idea how much.”

I drain my glass and place it on the table. “Are you finished?” I ask her tartly.

“No, just one other thing. Brian has a mole just above his pubic bone on his right side. And he curves a little to the right. You remember those, don’t you? I know it was only once and you were drunk but you’ve been riding, pardon the pun, on it ever since. I just thought I would confirm that with you.”

“I’m not dignifying that with an answer!” I snap.

“You just did.” Emmett laughs before looking up at her. “To the right, you say?”

“Uh huh, just a wee bend.” She smirks.

“Now we’re done.” She sits back down and drains her glass before reaching in her pocket for keys. “Det. Horvath, you are charged with doing your duty and driving us home. Well to my place, where Emmy and I are going to finish off that truly scrumptious bottle of Barolo. If you’re gonna get red wine teeth, you might as well go big!”

“Which one did you bring?” He grins like a schoolboy.

“The classic Merc. I don’t mind them sitting on it around here. It’s actually quite sweet. One of the LQs when she perches actually takes her shoes off…”

“LQ?” Carl asks.

“Leather Queen sweetie.” Emmett drains his glass and then looks at us. “And you two are waiting for...ooh Debs, over here!”

Debs comes over and I wince as I see that my bag already has a scratch on it. “What a godawful fucking day!” She sighs, sinking into the seat Hunter gives up for her.

“Don’t you need to be sober in the morning? As a chauffeur…” I begin to lecture.

“I have a job to be on holiday from...unlike you.” She retorts.

“Okay, you two unless there is anything else, I want to take my family home and there is no room for you...in the car.” Carl tells us and Hunter helps Debs up, grumbling that she’s just sat down and they head out leaving us standing there.

INSIDE THE CLASSIC MERC

HUNTER

Now that I have finished laughing, I have to ask. “How did you know about Brian and you know?”

“How do you think I know?” Ruth stretches her back.

My jaw drops. “You mean you were…”

“No! Oh for heaven sake, Justin told me! Jesus, I thought you were smart?! Best not to let Carmine know you can be naïve or he will have you for breakfast!” She laughs, resting her feet in Emmy’s lap.

“Carmine?!” Grandma whips her head around from the front seat. “Who’s Carmine? Why am I only hearing about a Carmine now?!”

“Ruth!” I groan as grandma turns to face me.

“Well?!” She demands.

“He works with me and will be teaching Hunter the ropes.” She laughs at my embarrassment. “Especially what it feels like to have a BMW throbbing between your legs.”

“Oh I bet he will!” Grandma cackles.

“I think she means BMW as in the motorbike, not that Big Man’s Willy.” Emmy hoots with laughter. “Although, I think Hunter wouldn’t mind both.”

“Seriously, someone tell me about Carmine!” Grandma demands.

CHAPTER 20 - IMPATIENCE, NERVES, ENVY AND RAGE

HUNTER

I slide down further in the seat and will everyone to keep quiet. Carmine and I have been getting to know each other very slowly. I thought he was interested in dad at first!

Nobody says anything for a minute, then she clears her throat. “Sorry honey, will you tell me when you’re ready? You taking your time?” I nod and everyone relaxes. “Well that's good. Has your dad met him?”

“Yeah, and you did briefly…” I tell her and she looks at me before realisation dawns.

“The driver on the smackdown night?”

“Yes, that’s him. But I’m concentrating on helping Justin with Britin, think they want to be in sooner rather than later. Working at Ruth’s the weekends.”

She smiles encouragingly. “That’s a well thought out plan, but don't overdo it.”

“I won't.” I squeeze her shoulder. I like this grandma a lot better than the old one. Now that she's taken off her Michael-tinted-glasses, she’s softer although she’s still the same grandma, when she’s supposed to be.

“So Carl you gonna drop Hunter off and then take care of my car?”

“Absolutely! Will drop it off at...oh what’s your address?”

“I lied to the bitch as she knows where he lives. Am crashing at Emmy’s tonight as we have to talk ceremony to Justin.”

“Wait what about the Barolo, you mentioned? I was looking forward to it.” Emmy pouts.

“Boot.” She grins at him. “I always carry a spare bottle of the good stuff.”

“Seriously, adore you more every day!” Emmy declares and I couldn't agree more.

KINNETIC - WEDNESDAY MORNING

TED’S OFFICE

TED

“Ted Schmidt. Oh yes, put them through.  Hello Mr Crown, how are you? Good to hear. I'm very well but will be better if you have good news about the auction?”

I pull up the spreadsheet and we go through it and I am very pleased indeed. One more step towards them being him-free. Although he never answered the goddaughter question, but I suspect that Mel will ask him anyway. I’m so glad she’s listening and seeing what he does for herself.  

I shift a bit on my seat. After we got home, Blake was still fuming and took it out on my ass. It is now down to a dull but manageable ache. I had to call Ems to find out what he does in these circumstances. A rubber ring and ointment was his response!

“That’s excellent news, Mr Crown! So when can we expect the money less your fees? Oh even better. You will deal with Mr Novotny directly with regards to his portion of the payment? Thank you, that’s great. Goodbye.”

I sit back in my chair, carefully, and smile. Ooh, he’s going to be pissed and there’s not a thing he can do about it! I’ve always said what the big print gives the small print taketh away!

MEL’S OFFICE - LATE AFTERNOON

SUE, MEL’S PA

She can glare as malevolently as she wants. She’s not getting Mel’s whereabouts now that she’s no longer part of her life. She’s been ringing since this morning but Mel has been in court. Not that she believed that of course, so here she is.

“Sue, I really need to speak to Mel about a private issue, so can you tell me where she is? She’s not answering her phone!” She barks, her voice rising.

“As I said to you Ms Peterson, Ms Marcus is in court and it is against company policy to give the location of the court or when the session ends to unauthorised people…”

“Unauthorised?!” She all but screams. “I am the mother of our child and…”

“I haven’t heard there is a problem with Gus and …”

“Why would you be in the know in the first place?!” She folds her arms and is breathing hard through her nose. She sounds like a bull. All she needs to do is lower her head and paw the ground and she’s good to go. Thankfully, I’m not wearing red!

“Because I handle her diary and would have to let people know if she couldn’t attend a meeting. Now if you can excuse me, I really do have to prepare for her next session.”

“Then I will wait. She obviously needs to come back and collect the papers!” She sits down heavily on the chair and takes out her phone to, presumably, keep trying Mel. I focus on the papers and before I know it, another 40 minutes have passed and she’s still sitting there but now she is squirming.

Aha! Seems someone needs the bathroom!

I get up and go to the dispenser with my extra-large glass and slowly fill it making sure the stream is as long and as loud as possible.  It doesn’t take long for her to run!

When she comes back, she’s on the phone. “No just stay out there. And call me the moment you see her.”

ALLEGHANY COURTHOUSE - AN HOUR LATER

MEL

Yes, that’s that case won! I check my emergency phone and there’s no messages. So clearly the texts, emails and calls from Michael and Lindsay are more fishing, trying to find out what the Boys’ Weekend entails. We’ve got a parental summit, as she called it, tomorrow to discuss parenting as a whole. So we’re not going to discuss it then either! Oh, this should be fun!  

I hear a beeping and look up. “How come you always manage to be somewhere when I need a lift?!” I smile at Ruth as I get in.

“You’re just lucky like that.” She grins back. “It was just a fluke. Where you going? Back to the office?”

“Let me just check my messages...oh fuck no! Lindsay’s there! Sue said she’s been there for the last two hours. I really could do without this today! I’ve got a heavy caseload tomorrow and the files are there!”

“Kinnetic.” Ruth calls over her shoulder.

“Pardon?”

“Can drop you off at Kinnetic and you get your PA to bike the papers to you over there. That way, you’ll have facilities to use undisturbed. I’m sure that Brian and Justin won’t mind.”

“Let me call Ted.” Ten minutes later, the papers are on their way and I heave a sigh of relief.

MEL’S OFFICE - AN HOUR LATER

LINDSAY

I’m hungry and tired! Michael hasn’t stopped bitching because he’s bored outside but we need to speak to Mel before tomorrow. But then I have an idea. “Well thank you for your help.” I snipe sarcastically.

“You are more than welcome. I suggest you book an appointment next time. Ms Marcus is an attorney, who is highly in demand. Good day Ms Peterson.”

I march downstairs to meet Michael, who is staring sullenly at the doors. “I thought you were going to ring me when you were coming down.”

“Shit! I left my phone upstairs, won’t be a minute!” I dash back to Mel’s office, my temper rising as he sighs dramatically. It’s not as if he’s doing anything right now!

When I get back to Mel’s office, Sue looks up and just hands me my cell without a word. I check that it is still locked, feel sure I locked it, I head down to Michael, whose mood has not improved.

“So we’re doing what now?” He sighs.

“Well now that you have your money from the Taylor-Kinney Enterprise, I think you should buy or rent a house or a large apartment.” He stops walking and gawps at me. “We only have a month until my parents come back and you have to live somewhere. My parents have another small apartment that I can stay in. That way we can have the children there. But let’s discuss that later. We’ve been asking the wrong people…”

“Asking the wrong people what?” He asks, hailing a cab and holding the door open for me. “I don’t understand what you mean.”

“We simply ask Gus where his daddies are taking him when we see him tomorrow night. Well I will ask him, while you’re with JR.”

“As Brian said, the simplest way is generally the best. And Gus will tell you because you’re his mommy…”

“And not his momma.” I spit derisively.

BEN & HUNTER’S HOUSE - EARLY EVENING

LOUNGE

BEN

We look at each other and burst out laughing. “We are pathetic!” I chortle.

“Like totally dude!” Hunter twirls his phone, grinning. “So you going to call first?” He hedges.

“Why me first?!” I exclaim.

“Well then I can copy what you say…” He looks hopeful. “Or how about we text?”

“You can’t text someone to ask them on a date! It’s not proper. Nor can you text them to say you don’t want to see them anymore.” I look at him sternly and he quickly nods.

“Maybe if we were in different rooms that way we wouldn’t be so self-conscious?” He suggests.

“Okay, I’ll go to the kitchen. Then I can pour us a small commiserating glass of wine for me and a coke for you after last night’s escapades.”

Ten minutes later, we’re both wearing matching grins and waiting for the pizza to arrive. “So where are you going? Or are we not telling each other?”

“Not telling each other! I’m going to be nervous enough. When are you going out?”

“Tomorrow night. I don’t want to be fuzzy headed on Saturday because JR screams like her dad in full whine!”

“Great minds think alike.” He chuckles and then looks mischievous. “So what are your thoughts on kissing on the first date?”

“Anything above the waist is fine for me and above the neck for you!”

“Oh man!” He bleats and goes to get the pizza.

MEL’S HOUSE - THURSDAY EVENING

LOUNGE

MEL

It’s official! She’s utterly in love with her godfathers...yes fathers! You can’t have Brian without Justin; it’s just not right. And I couldn’t not have Ted too. So now we have a blessing ceremony and the christening for both Gus and JR.  And it was all Ted’s fault for planting the idea in my head…

Start of flashback

KINNETIC - WEDNESDAY EVENING

TED’S OFFICE

MEL

“You managed to get everything done?” Ted asks, shifting once more in his seat and I can’t help but laugh as I nod.

“Looks like Blake did too.” I smile at him as he goes a bit red. “So how was it?”

“Very nice indeed.” He sighs and sits back. “Did you know about his tell? No, me neither so I asked Justin…”

“To stop him from hitting someone?” I suggest and he nods.

“In one respect, I’m sorry he wasn’t holding something when he punched Michael but on hearing what the asshole said, I was really glad that he wasn’t!” He tells me. My answering laugh is hollow before I completely sober again. “Did you hear about last night?”

“No, what happened?” He asks, causing me to laugh when he adjusts himself again. He looks like he’s shifting from cheek-to-cheek. Blake must have really tore my friend’s ass up!

“Well according to Hunter, who told Ben, who told me, Ruth…”

“So what’s tomorrow about?” He asks, having composed myself from the replay at Woody’s. “I’m only asking from a monetary point of view. I took a chance and set up support agreements for them both. You want to take them now or is that a discussion for another time?”

“Might as well take them now since we’re going to be rowing anyway.” I reach for them and read the figures and whistle. “They are going to spit a shit when they read this!”

“Lindsay maybe but Michael has the money to start paying. The first tranche of the collectibles went under auction yesterday and he’s due a tidy sum, less the money that is owed to Ben, of course. And even better, the auction house is telling him that part. I’m determined to get them untangled financially from that sponge as fast as possible. Oh and you’ll notice a rinky-dinky little clause I put in for non and delayed payment. See page 4.”

I read and my grin gets feral. “She is going to go ape when she reads that! But there is nothing stopping her from working.”

“Apart from her ELMA as Justin puts it.” He snickers.

“What’s that?”

“Entitled Lady Muck Assholiness.”

“It’s a step up from Cindernever and Crumpledforeskin I guess.” He gapes at me. “Justin strikes again!”

He laughs. “It’s not hard to see why he and Brian are together. Those names even surpassed the Master and I know Brian can come up with some off the wall shit. You can’t work with him and not hear it daily, so living with him would definitely have given Justin quite the education. But seriously, did you notice that Michael never actually answered the question about Brian being JR’s godfather?” I nod. “It would be just like him to take that away from him in pure spite. You should’ve seen his face…”

“I’ve been thinking about that. Idiot man can try to but even if he does, I’m officially going to ask the three of you to be her godfathers. I’m going to suggest Ems, Ben and Blake for Gus...another fun conversation to have with them.”

“Three? You said three?” I look at her in shock. “You’re asking me to be...oh I would be honoured, so honoured! As will Blake, I can’t wait to tell him!” He reaches for the phone.

“Let me have the conversation with them first and then you can tell him. Give your ass a break, especially if he reacts badly to their reaction!”

“Good point.” He grimaces slightly at the very idea of an Angry Blake going at him again in the immediate future. I laugh and am especially thankful at this moment that I will never fall into the hands of an Angry Twink!

End of flashback

“You are such a dribbler.” Justin laughs as JR sucks on her bottle and looks at Justin with such adoration it’s sickening!

Gus is reading with his daddy. I look at the clock again, thankful that they were already bathed and ready to go with Debs and Carl. Debs is in the kitchen making sure there’s enough food to feed a small army. Apparently, Hunter counts as a growing child. Carl is fitting the booster seats in the car.

I see a taxi draw up and they get out. “Gus go and get you shoes and ask grandma to help you put them on, okay?”

“Yes momma!” He runs off and the smile on Brian’s face makes my even my heart flutter.

I open the door and Lindsay looks surprised to see Debs there. “What’s going on? Why are Debs and Carl here?”

“What do you mean why are they here? We agreed that they should take them both tonight, because our discussion might not be conducive to their sleep. They’re going to drop them off at school and the crèche and…”

“Wait what? When did this dropping them off thing get agreed to?” Michael demands.

“And what is the problem with your mother dropping off her grandson and granddaughter, Michael?” Carl’s voice is dripping anger.

“It is one day. Justin is going to pick up Gus and Ben will pick up JR and…”

“Now just…”

“Quiet!” Carl hisses as he casts his eye at Gus, who is looking at us puzzled. “How you doing buddy? Grandma got you all set?”

“Yes grandpa. Shall I help with JR?”

“No thank you, Gus. You really don’t want to help with this.” Justin comes out and heads upstairs. “I shall brave the nappy alone.”

Ten minutes later, a gurgling and happy JR is strapped in and after Gus has triple checked that he’s been a good enough boy to go with his daddies, they leave.

“Right, let’s get this started, shall we?” I lead them back into the lounge.

BRIAN

It’s the hard clearing of someone’s throat that tells me they are back. But I’m doing one of my favourite things with Justin...making out with my hands down his pants! I can feel him starting to pull back but I give his ass a squeeze and stick my tongue deeper into his mouth, getting the same reaction I crave every time...he melts.

“If you two could cut that out for a minute so we can have this discussion?!” Lindsay gripes.

Slowly he lets my tongue slide out of his mouth with a quiet whimper and I can feel his cock twitching against my stomach. We remain lying down but turn to look at two pinched and one amused faces.

“Okay, we’ve stopped.” I drawl.

“Can you at least sit up and take your hand from there?” Michael grizzles like some two year old cub. Wish Mama Bear was still here to cuff him right in the back of his head. Or maybe Carl would be the better choice?

“No, my hands are cold and this is my hot and happy place.” I give his ass another squeeze and marvel at his inopportune primness as he goes pink.

“Can you brave the cold with one hand so you can read this?” Mel laughs and hands me some papers. “Ted drew up support agreements and you need to read them, get them checked by a lawyer, agree to the figures and sign.”

I adjust Justin so he can see the paper too and his eyes widen. “Did you see this first?”

“No. We need to give Ted a raise!” I laugh.

“Absolutely not! I am not paying this much!” Michael whines. “I have my apartment to think about.”

“You’ve found somewhere to live?” I keep my tone neutral because I know this is all Lindsay!

“Not yet. But when I do, I will need the money for that.”

“So what are you going to do in the meantime? Just live off of that money?” Justin asks, trying not to squirm as I move my hand lower.

“Why...I mean no, I’m going to invest it.” He, like Justin, is struggling to articulate what he truly means but for a wholly different reason!

I move as close to the edge of the sofa as I can without falling off, effectively trapping Justin between me and the sofa. I press home my advantage.

“So in the meantime, you can get a job so you won’t have to use that money to live off of. But you really should use that money to pay support for JR. Did the auction house call you?” I concentrate on Michael and not the quiet mewls of pleasure erupting from Justin’s throat as I stroke his balls. He flings a leg over mine to give me a bit more room.

“No. What’s been sold?” He looks eager.

“Not them.” Justin’s voice is steady. “We got them last they will be sold last.”

I look across at Mel and her hand is shaking as she pours the wine. “So before we talk about parental consistencies, Lindsay your thoughts on your support payments?”

“Unless you have forgotten, I haven’t got a job Mel.”

“Due to your actions. You don’t have to work in a gallery, you can teach. You made a great play about how you want to nurture and share your knowledge with the next generation, so share. I happen to know there is a renaissance arts class teacher’s assistant job at Carnegie Mellon…”

“No prizes for guessing who told you that.” Michael bitches.

“Yes Ben told me about it. I’m so sorry he couldn’t find a class that teaches you how to run a store into the ground, but I’ll be sure to ask him to keep an eye out for one!” Mel bitches back.

“Can you stop? Not while we talk about this.” He whispers and I nod moving my hand to the base of his spine.

“Can we focus, please?” I order. “Gus said something on Sunday that has troubled us both.”

“Which was?” Lindsay asks.

“About him being punished even after he says sorry for what he’s done? Is this something he’s mentioned to you before?” I look at Mel then at Lindsay, who goes red. “Lindsay has he told you about this before? Is it a school thing?”

“Yes. But I spoke to the school and they assured me that there would be…”

“Why didn’t you tell me? When was this?” Mel is understandably annoyed.

“A few months back. But as I was about to say, they assured me there would be no repeat of that kind of discipline.”

“Who did you speak to? Was a note put on his file?” Mel grabs her pad and pen. “You should’ve told me Lindsay.”

“I can’t remember. You were working very hard and I…”

“I’ll call the school tomorrow and make sure a note is put on his file. So what is a suitable punishment? A time out? Toy removal?”

“It depends on what he’s done.” Michael states. “If he hit JR for example then…”

Immediately Justin slides his hand under my top and rubs circles on my stomach. “Breathe.” He whispers.

“Why the hell would Gus hit JR?!” Mel explodes.

“I was just putting out scenarios!” Michael shouts back.

“You were button pushing! Gus would never hit JR. Say that shit again and I hit you!” She snaps.

I swallow hard. “Obviously, if it gets to the stage when Gus is hitting, which it never would, then we would seek some kind of counselling. So I think time out and treat removal is the way to go. Anything to add Justin?”

“A diary.”

“He’s a little boy. He’ll have…” Michael protests.

“I’m not talking War and Peace! Just to say what he did and how he felt. He can show it to Mel and if there’s any concerns, then she can share with us. Is there anything else about Gus or JR we need to discuss?”

“Why would JR be your concern?” Michael barely keeps the snark out of his voice.

“Because I want to add to the godfathers. As well as Brian, I would like to add Justin and Ted and Lindsay, as well as your picks I want to have Blake, Ben and Ems. What do you both think?”

“Are we needed for this part?” I ask, sliding my hand back onto my happy place.

“Yes, you are!” Lindsay’s tone is venomous and I look at Justin, who shrugs and adjusts his position slightly.

“Before we go onto that, though. We need to discuss time and place.” Mel’s wrathful gaze settles on Lindsay. “What was so important yesterday for you to sit outside my office door for almost two hours?”

“I needed to talk to you about some missing items from my personal effects.”

“No you didn’t. You wanted to see where Brian and Justin are taking Gus tomorrow. Well I have no idea. And he doesn’t either, just in case you were thinking about going to see him at school tomorrow.”

“I am fully aware that this is their weekend and…”

“That’s that!” Justin snaps. “We didn’t interfere in yours; don’t interfere in ours!”

“Speaking of weekends. I’m not happy about Ben and Hunter being around JR without me.” Michael interjects his opinion.

“Again, he has earned the right to be called daddy more than you.” Mel retorts. “Besides it is my weekend and you wouldn’t be here anyway.”

I turn my head to look at Michael, who’s in classic pout position. “Let’s face it... you don’t want Ben to share JR because he’s not bending to your will. Hunter owns the house and has kicked you out because of the way you treated Ben. I bet you think he should be grateful to you for adopting him, even though you paid him hardly any attention. Then you expect for him to be understanding when you virtually throw him out of the only home he’s known for years when JR came along.”

“That’s not true! And no I don’t!”

“Yes it is!” Mel snaps.

“You okay?” I whisper and he nods, biting his lip as I go back to stroking. “However, there is one more thing we need to discuss Mel, and that’s Rage and...”

“What about Rage?” Michael looks at us keenly.

“Oh crap! Haven’t had time to look at that and I have a full day tomorrow? Can we look at it next week?”

“When next week and what is there to look at?” Michael tries again.

“Why are you in this conversation?” Justin sighs, partly in frustration but mostly because I have managed to get my finger up his ass!

“Why am I…? Because it’s about Rage and…”

“You have no rights to it. And no rights means no say and no say means quiet.” Justin growls.

I manage to hold in my snort but Mel is less successful.

“It was my idea!” He protests.

“Which we paid you a shitload of money for. Remember that?” I point out, watching the pleasure play across Justin’s face. “Mel drew up the contract and you signed it knowingly, before you start bitching about being forced into it.”

“I remember.” He grumbles. “I just wanted to know what was happening. I still say we should’ve tried to do the comic passed the wedding.”

“And as I said at the time you signed over your rights, the point of this document is that we never have to work together on this ever again. I have it framed in the loft.” His cock is throbbing against my hip. He’s close...so very close.

“Brian! Can you focus on what we are talking about?!” Michael complains.

“I listen with my ears Michael and I can hear perfectly. I hear and see the disingenuousness of the pair of you. I told you on Sunday that Ruth is my best friend and best friends talk. So let me reiterate what she said on Monday. You are off the account at AngelCars, both of you.”

“But Brian, I don’t understand why you are doing this?” He whines and Lindsay looks appalled.

“Because I don’t like you two right now! I’m not sure I ever will like you the way I did before. Don’t get me wrong, you provided a refuge of sorts when I needed it. But I don’t need it anymore.”  My phone beeps, heralding the arrival of Gary. “Want to finish in the car?”

“Oh yeah.” He purrs and shivers as I slide my hand out.

“Brian…” Lindsay stands up to block our exit. “We need to finish…”

“No Lindsay!” Justin growls. “He needs to finish getting me off and it’s either right here, right now or in the car!”

“Oh my God!” She gasps, stepping quickly aside and we run out laughing.