Man of Mystery – 12

Aubrey Thomas stood on the cliff facing the ocean. Wind teased his blond hair and tossed the fine silky strands. Life for him had turned out differently than when he was young and filled with dreams of the future. He looked back over his shoulder, and saw Jenny the love of his life, sitting on a lounge chair reading. Was he crazy to be so concerned for his children? He sighed, as an artist he saw things clearly, but he also tended to romanticize as well. Something that wasn’t always a good thing as occasionally his heart overruled his head. 

He’d left the woman he loved many years ago, preferring to flee the country for the country of artisans; France, rather than stand and fight for her. He used the excuse that she would be safe, protected from the evil of Craig Taylor’s wrath had he discovered that Jenny had been his long before she was given in marriage to Taylor.  Taking the easy way out, Aubrey had left for Vence, a small town in the south of France where his parents had a villa. He never tired of the old town that was filled with artists, sculptors and writers. The galleries filled with the products of the townspeople had fascinated the young Aubrey Thomas and even now had the ability to fascinate.  

His parents loved the markets where they would wander for hours selecting the best of the day’s produce of vegetables, spices and honey. Their favorite thing was getting water from the nearest fountain; fountains that contained mineral water from high in the hills that rose behind the town.  

Vence was twenty-one km, northwest of Nice, so it was a perfect place to retreat to, yet still be able to travel to a larger city if necessary. Aubrey had never planned to spend his life here however, he had never dreamed that he would have to leave the woman he loved in order to keep her safe.

“I think it’s time I met my children,” Aubrey said the words out loud, testing how it would sound. <i>His children</i>, he’d kept the very words out of his mind as much as he could for fear that Craig Taylor would discover the deception that his wife had played on him for so many years.

“Aubrey, did you say something?” Jennifer asked as she joined him on the cliff top, her hand rubbing the small of his back.

“Our lives have turned out so different than when we were young and foolish,” he began. “I remember the last time we danced at your school; what seems like a lifetime ago.” He pulled her into his arms. “I wish it could have been different.” 

“But we’re together now,” she smiled up at him. “Craig is finally dead.” 

“Yes,” he smiled, “He was such an evil bastard.” Aubrey would never forget the day Craig Taylor had come to him and ordered him to leave the town. He refused, of course, and then his father had almost been killed. The terror had begun and in order to keep his parents alive, he left the woman he loved not knowing that she was pregnant with his son. 

“I want to meet Justin and Molly,” Aubrey said. “It’s time they knew their father. 

“I would never have married him you know,” she explained yet again. “I’ve regretted it every day of my life. “

“I know,” Aubrey whispered. He thought of those long ago years. His teenage girlfriend pregnant, her parent’s financial future held in the hands of the Taylors, and him disappearing without a word.  She really had very little choice. Jenny had done what she had to do. Her child was born a Taylor, small for his age despite the fact he’d been carried 9 months. Craig thought he was premature. Aubrey and Jennifer both had been pleased at the time that Craig never knew Justin wasn’t his. 

The years apart had been hard on both Jennifer and Aubrey, even though he’d done his best to keep tabs on his love and their child. Aubrey had talent and  luck; both into a financially lucrative artistic career. The money he made had allowed him, through various means, to keep an eye on Jenny and Justin,and when he’d heard that she was going to be in Paris for the new fashion collections, they had managed one more night of bliss; resulting in the conception of Molly. 

“I’ve never asked you, how did you manage to keep up with our children?” Jennifer said as she leaned into Aubrey’s arms, both of them turning again to watch the waves.

“I’d like to tell you that I have a bit of magic in me much like your family.” He chuckled, “But truthfully, I relied on others. Mrs. Riley, the housekeeper was one until she was replaced by Craig.” 

“I remember her, I thought of her as a friend, rather than an employee. No doubt that was a mistake. Once Craig realized that he replaced her with that harridan,” Jennifer sounded sad and Aubrey gave her a comforting squeeze. 

“I’ve had gardener’s on my payroll, a janitor at Justin’s school, a teacher at Molly’s,” he grinned down at her. “I’m a very resourceful man, and with the advent of the Internet, it has become much easier.”

“For both of us,” she smiled to herself. They had heated up cyberspace for years. Jennifer ignored his reference to her magical abilities. It was an ongoing joke between them ever since they were in grade school. She’d always had something of a sixth sense where he was concerned and it had followed with her children. She knew when they were happy or sad, or needed something. She knew when they were in trouble and she knew when her husband was planning something evil. It had been an asset at times, and a liability at others. 

She’d never been able to do the things her mother had, like lighting candles, or moving small objects with her mind, but then she’d never tried. It had always seemed too freaky. Then there was Craig; every time she was around him, he sapped her will. It was almost like she was a Stepford wife, not quite as bad as the movie, but close. Jennifer had spent a good part of her marriage in her suite of rooms at the big house or at Twin Oaks when she could convince Craig to let her go. It was the only time she could be herself. That is until the moment he’d died. It was like a cloud had been lifted from her brain. She’d known the instant his life had left him, even though it had been hours before the police informed her. 

“Justin’s villa isn’t far. Did you ever see him when he was in residence?” Jennifer asked.

“No, I would have told you,” Aubrey said looking back at his own Villa. “We should invite them to visit.” 

“I’m not sure how to tell our children that they’ve been living a lie. I’m afraid that they’ll be angry. Craig wasn’t an easy father, and they’ll blame me for the lives they were force to live; especially Justin.  Now there’s this mess with the estate. Everything goes to Justin, as it’s always passed from father to son; it always has been that way. I don’t know what to do.” 

“Craig always thought of Justin as his, so there’s nothing <I>to</I> do. In fact, he is Craig’s son in the eyes of the law.” He laughed, “How many Taylor sons were really Taylor’s, we’ll never really know. I’m sure in the last couple of hundred years we weren’t the only ones to deceive.”

“I’m sure you’re right. I feel Justin already knows, but until I confirm it, he’ll not blame me.” Jennifer walked away until she stood at the very edge of the cliff. 

“Come back from the edge; it’s dangerous.” Aubrey moved to her and put his hand on her arm. “The children were at Twin Oaks the past few days, perhaps Maudie or Timmy  said something.”

“Maudie maybe; Timmy never,” Jennifer laughed. “He has always been very closed mouth. She looked at him. “They’re hardly children any more.” 

“I know,” he smiled a rueful smile. “I have missed so much of their lives. The pictures and reports were never really enough.”

“I’m sorry,” she whispered. 

“Don’t be; we both did what we had to do. Too many people have been hurt by Craig Taylor.”

“It’s continuing from the grave. Justin has such a mess to deal with. I’m afraid for him; terrified actually,” Jennifer shuddered, “Craig and his family were part of something unspeakable. I’m afraid that Justin is involved now. I feel it deep inside of me. Molly as well, though not so much.” 

“Why didn’t you say something before this?” Aubrey asked.

“I was afraid. If I said it out loud, then it would be true.” Jennifer started to cry silent tears. “I don’t know how to help him. He shuts me out.” Another shudder rippled through her body. “He blames me for sending him away and never letting him return. I think he’s forgotten how to love; if he ever knew how.” 

“Justin has been in love.” Aubrey remembered every painful report of his son’s first love and how it had ended. “There’s someone in his life now; someone who has feelings for him; the father of Molly’s young friend Gus.” 

“Brian; he has feelings for Justin?” Jennifer looked at Aubrey questioning what he’d said. “They barely know one another.” 

“How long do you have to know someone to love them; a minute, an hour, a year?” Aubrey laughed. “I knew you were going to be my only love when we were six. You were crying; all red-faced and covered in snot.”

“Lovely,” she laughed as he’d intended. “You knocked my ice cream into the dirt, and I thought you were the most vile boy I’d ever met.”

“You loved me.” He ran his fingers over her face. “You know you did.” 

“I was six, what did I know?” her hand caught his and squeezed. “But yes, I loved you then and I still do.” 

“I was always so afraid you’d forget me,” he sighed. 

“I only had to look at the children; they were the image of you, especially Justin. He even has your artistic talent.”

“I know, I see myself in him all the time.” Aubrey couldn’t help but smile at his Jenny. “I see you there as well.”

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

“Justin, I need to talk to you.” Paul had to stop himself from holding his breath. This conversation was one he never thought he’d ever have with his friend. 

“Paul, can I put you on speaker phone? I need both hands right now,” Justin asked his friend. He was recording titles on the books on the shelf nearest his desk. 

“Is anyone there?” Paul asked, he hated being on speakerphone, it made him feel more vulnerable than usual. 

“Paul, no there isn’t,” Justin sighed. “I know you hate it, as much as I do but I really need to get these books listed. I can write and listen to you at the same time.” Justin hadn’t really been paying attention. If he had, he would have noticed that Gus was laying on a sofa, his laptop open, busy working on the program he and Paul were developing. Of course the sofa was on the other side of the room, and Gus had been too intensely involved when Justin had entered to even acknowledge him with anything more than an unanswered smile. Justin was justified in not knowing the kid was there.

“Gus emailed me some pictures of himself and Molly,” Paul began. 

Gus’ mind sprang to attention at hearing his name. 

“That’s nice.” Justin couldn’t see where this was going. 

“He’ll want one of me.” 

“Oh.” Justin thought for a moment. “Paul, it won’t hurt to send him a picture of you.” 

“I don’t have a recent picture of me. You know that.” 

“Tell him that.”  

“I did, but it sounded so lame,” Paul said,  trying not to panic. 

“What’s the worst that could happen?” Justin asked. 

“He’d run screaming from the room. He’d never talk to me again; he’d hate me and he’d think I was a freak.” 

“Are you finished?” Justin asked. “I really don’t think that Gus is so superficial that he’d put what you look like ahead of the friendship the two of you have developed.” 

“Jay, he’s a gay boy. I’m a gay boy. You know that appearance is everything.” 

Justin sighed,  “Paul, your problems with your appearance and disability aren’t going to go away. We’ve talked about this before. If you want Gus for a friend, you’re going to have to be honest with him.”

“He’ll hate me,” Paul almost sobbed. He felt like such an idiot. He was twenty; he was a man. He should stand up and act like one, except he needed fucking crutches to stand up, not to mention a bag over his head.

Gus stood up and walked over to where Justin sat. Justin looked up surprised to see him. “Paul, this is Gus, do you really think so little of my character?” he said with hurt in his voice. Gus picked up the phone after turning off the speaker. “I was working and overheard this ridiculous conversation.”

“Gus, is that really you?” Paul asked. “I’m sorry, you weren’t meant to hear my insecurities.” 

“Because keeping them to yourself is a much better plan, right?” Gus snickered, but not with unkindness.  “I know that you’re scared, I know that you were burned, and no doubt have scars that don’t look the greatest. I also know that you need crutches to walk. What I don’t know is just what the big deal is?” 

“I’m not perfect,” the words were whispered.

“No shit, who is?” Gus shook his head. He was pacing the length of the room. “I’m going to fly to New York and see you this weekend. We’ll sit down and have a conversation like two adults.” 

“You can’t come here.” Gus could hear the panic in Paul’s voice.

“Why not, it’s not like I’m incapable. You’re free to come here if you want. Otherwise, expect me at your door with a latte Friday evening.” 

“You don’t know where I live.” Paul was reaching for any excuse to discourage his friend from visiting. 

“My dad owns an investigation firm. Besides, you’ll email me your address and the directions to find it.” 

“I will.” Paul’s voice was low. “Will you promise that no matter what, you’ll stay and talk even if my face makes you sick.” 

“Even if you have two heads,” Gus assured him. He paused, “You don’t do you?” 

“No,” Paul’s laugh was unsure. 

“I’ll bring food too,” Gus offered.

“I can provide food.” Paul was getting into the swing of things. “Do you like pizza?” 

“I’ve been known to eat it.” 

“Can I talk to Justin again?” Paul asked. 

“Yes, but no wiggling out of this. I’ll see you on Friday night. Meanwhile, I think I’ve coded something that will knock your socks off. It’s going to work perfect for the return of the stolen stuff. Check your email, I’m going to send it in about half an hour. I have a couple of small bugs to work out. Paul, I’m handing you back to Justin. Later.” 

“Later,” Paul whispered he was terrified he’d agreed to something he wasn’t ready for. He needed to talk to Justin.

Gus handed the phone to Justin. “Paul wants to talk to you. For the record, I’m going to visit him on Friday, so don’t let him wiggle out of it. And no I’m not planning on hurting him, so don’t bother with the lecture.” 

Justin took the phone, but wasn’t sure if it was a good thing or a bad thing that Gus had forced the issue. But it was time that Paul became part of the living world again. 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

“Are you really going to New York?” Molly asked. “Cause if you are, I want to come too.” 

“You can’t, this is just something I have to do.” Gus lay on her bed, his favorite place to think things out.

“I could visit museums or something while you thrash out your friendship with Paul.” 

“Or, you could stay here and help Justin and Seiji.” 

Molly laughed and cuddled up close to Gus. “I wish you weren’t gay.” She kissed him under his chin. “But since you are, I want to help you find true love.”

“I’m not expecting to find that Mollster,” he sighed dramatically. “I’m gay, so true love is only as far as my right hand.” 

“Ewwwwe,” she laughed. “You’re such a loser.” 

“Seriously though, look at my dad, or Emmett, or even Uncle Mikey; they don’t expect to have the same kind of relationships as straight people.” 

“Haven’t we had this conversation before?” Molly nudged Gus with her elbow. “I think your dad and Emmett or Uncle Mike, just haven’t found the right guy. Think about it. How easy is it to find the perfect person;  not very when you’re straight, so it must be damn near impossible when you’re gay.” 

“Tell me about it,” Gus said sounding gloomy. “Anyway, that’s beside the point. I’m not saying I’m  passionately in love with Paul. I barely know the man, but I do know that I like him. We have the same interests, and he has a super sense of humor. He always seems to know what I’m thinking, and he makes me smile. That is all from a few phone calls and many, many hours of IM’s. “ 

“So you’ve elected yourself his savior?” 

“Hardly, but I know that we can’t go further unless we meet face to face. So that’s why I’m going to New York. Do you think Justin will let me stay in his apartment?” 

“Ask him.”

“Could you? He’s kind of pissed about Paul.” 

“I’ll ask, and he’ll be okay. He just needs a bit of time to get used to you.”  She sat up. “Let’s go to Seiji’s, you can tell him all your gay boy problems.”

“You just want to see Seiji; good try.” 

“We could go to Babylon with him and dance.”

“Dad would kill me. I had to promise not to go until I’m legal.” 

“Maybe he’d let us dance in the VIP room. It’s not like that’s actually the club or anything.” Molly wiggled on the bed in time to the music that was playing on the CD player. 

“Now <I>that</I> I could ask about,” Gus grinned at her. “I even have a key to the private entrance. Get changed, we’ll pick up Seiji.”

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Justin heard the front door slam. Molly and Gus were on their way out. So far the two of them hadn’t been a lot of hands on kind of help. But at least his sister seemed happy enough. It must be nice to keep blinders on like she did. She was spending the night at Gus’ as they had school tomorrow. She needed to attend as much as she could before she wrote her finals. Luckily her SAT’s were as high as they were, not to mention her grade point average. There had been no problem from the school about her leaving early. They would fly to France as soon as he could finish up a few things. 

Justin looked over at the suitcase that sat by a leather wing chair. He’d found this gem in a closet. It had been his father’s, a well-constructed case that looked perfectly innocent, yet had a secret sidewall. He’d use it to bring the Picasso sketch and paintings into France as well as anything else he could get rid of that would fit. Ironically enough, the only way he’d discovered the case  was when he contacted a manufacturer of specialty cases. They thought he was Craig and asked about the one they’d sent a few months before. A few minutes of conversation and Justin knew what the case looked like and how to locate the hidden compartment. He ordered another case anyway and then went about searching for the one his father had. It hadn’t been hard to locate. Craig had been over confident that no one would venture into his private rooms, he apparently had forgotten about the inconvenience of death, or maybe he’d thought he’d live forever. Sucks to be you Craig, Justin thought. 

Emmett had worked hard all day and they had accomplished almost as much as he and Michael had the day before. Too bad the other man had to return to his store sooner than he’d planned, he had been nice to work with. 

Justin glanced outside. It was almost dark, therefore time to lock up and head out. He stood and stretched. He was tired of doing nothing but work. His few days at Twin Oaks had been anything but completely restful. Brian Kinney had disturbed his equilibrium too much, even if it had been in a nice way. Justin smiled at the thought of the tall, dark and handsome man who had piqued his interest. 

A small meal, a hot shower and a night of mindless dancing seemed to be in order. If nothing else, it would exhaust him enough to sleep without dreaming[…] or at least he hoped so. 

The clock was about to strike midnight, when Justin strolled through the doors of Babylon. He had dressed in a shirt and trousers of fine, white, Egyptian cotton. It draped well, and with the bit of sun kissed tan(,) and his almost white, blond hair, he looked otherworldly. He had used kohl on his eyes, pulling them out of the ordinary into the exotic. The heavy blue/black made his eyes mysterious with a hint of smoldering passion. It was a favorite club look for him in New York and definitely not usual here in this small city. On his feet he wore the lightest of leather dancing shoes, also white and made especially for him. He could dance for hours without tiring, and often did. 

Downing a bottle of water at one of the lower bars, Justin sized up the dance floor and chose his prey. He picked out a couple of dancers; both of them black, and shirtless. He’d make a delicious filling to their dancing sandwich. It was all about presentation after all.

Anyone watching him would think of a white tiger, as his muscles rippled under the fine cotton shirt, as he stalked toward his goal. As Justin approached, the beat of the music infused itself into his body and he picked up the rhythm, letting it dictate his walk. The sensuality of it was apparent to anyone who was lucky enough to watch. 

Taking up his position a few inches from the men he targeted, Justin let the music take over his body completely. He felt it flow through him, a life force like no other and he danced, body moving, sinuous, slow, then faster until he became an extension of the disc jockey’s art. 

The two handsome black men, moved to join Justin in his dance, until all three were one; black, white, black, only the contrasting skin tones let anyone know where one began and the other left off, so close were they as the music played. One song segued into another; barely noticeable by anyone, rhythms changed, tempos increased, then decreased, hands touched, rippling over body parts. Anyone within ten feet of the three dancers could feel the heat spreading through their bodies. It was an extension of the dancing men’s lust for one another, not to mention the heat of the dance. 

Brian had been in his office when Justin came in. He knew immediately that something was different and he wasn’t surprised to look out and see the blond performing. The younger man was beyond hot. An unfamiliar feeling that could almost be called jealousy, but that Brian thought of as concern, washed over him as he and the twins danced. Brian turned away from the window. It was of no concern to him what Justin Taylor did to relax. 

He sat back at his desk and tried to concentrate. Molly, Gus and Seiji had been in earlier and he’d allowed them an hour of dancing in the VIP room before sending them home. The room was rarely used much before eleven and this was a school night. The kids had no reason to stay, especially as they wanted to keep him happy so he’d let them come again. 

For some reason the DJ wasn’t allowing a break between songs. It was flowing from one to another and getting on Brian’s nerves, so he stood up again; drawn to the window like a moth to a flame. 

Justin’s face was emotionless, yet he continued to dance. It was like he was possessed. Brian could see the sweat running down his face, and he thought perhaps the blond had faltered slightly before beginning again. This couldn’t be good. The twins hadn’t noticed anything, instead they allowed their hands to touch Justin more frequently as if using his body, to take Justin’s strength into their own. 

With that thought racing through his head Brian charged out of his office and down the stairs, taking them two at a time until he leaped onto the dance floor. In seconds he was beside Justin. He shouted his name twice, but the blond made no notice of him. Not sure what was happening, Brian pushed into the threesome and threw Justin over his shoulder. He looked around debating on whether he should take him to his office and at the last second decided not to. Justin was shaking in time to the music. Brian needed to get him away from whatever had taken him over and that meant away from the music that thumped with a steady beat. 

No one objected, in fact no one seemed to notice that Justin was being removed. At the door Brian said to the bouncer. “Jacky, wait for five minutes and then pull the power bar to the DJ booth. You can turn it back on after a couple of minutes, but make sure everyone stops dancing first.”

Jacky looked at Brian oddly, but he knew better than to ask questions. “Sure Boss,” he said. Justin was still moving and Jacky wanted to ask what was up, instead he wisely said nothing other than, “Want me to help you get him into your car?” 

“Thanks Jacky, but I think I can manage.”

“Uh Boss, what’s he on? Do you know?” 

“I have no idea,” Brian answered as he moved closer to his car. Whatever it was, it had taken over Justin’s body and Brian didn’t like it one damn bit.

Justin had calmed down somewhat once they were away from Babylon, but he still had no facial expression and was still twitching with some unheard music. Brian managed to get him into his car and strap him in. He was about to run around to the driver’s side when he realized he had no idea where to take him. He couldn’t take him home. Molly and Gus were there and Justin didn’t need to have them involved, so he made a snap decision and decided to take him to his own hotel suite. They would have a bit of privacy there since Molly had been banned. 

As they drove to the hotel, Brian dialed Doc. He explained what had happened and the man agreed to meet them at the hotel. 

The front desk clerk had no problem with issuing another key card for his room, and Brian had to wonder at the security of the place. Justin was with him, but it was apparent to anyone that the man wasn’t himself. Inside Justin’s room, Brian did the only thing he could think of. He put the other man in the shower and turned on the cold water. It wasn’t the best of ideas, but it seemed to work, as Justin stopped moving. When Brian realized that he’d not only stopped moving but had stopped breathing, he yanked him out of the shower and began to apply CPR. This night was not turning out well, he thought briefly. 

Doc rushed through the door of the bathroom, having the good sense not to wait for Brian to answer the opened door. “What the fuck is going on?” he asked breathlessly. 

“He stopped breathing. I put him in a cold shower to make him stop moving to the music and then this happened,” Brian gasped. 

Doc filled a syringe with something from a bottle and injected it into Justin’s chest. In seconds he began to breathe again on his own, but remained unconscious. “Get him out of these cold wet clothes. We need to warm him up.” 

The two men soon had Justin undressed and between the sheets on his bed. “Call down for a heating pad or a hot water bottle or something,” Doc ordered. “His body temperature is too low.” 

But Brian had already removed his own clothing and climbed into bed with Justin. “I’ll warm him up.” He pulled Justin into his arms, making sure the duvet was tucked up around both of their necks. “Doc what the fuck happened to him? It was almost like he was possessed.” 

“I’ve seen something like it in Haiti during Voodoo ceremonies,” Doc admitted. “But I’ve never seen it here. The people say that the gods take over their bodies and there’s nothing they can do but dance until they fall down with exhaustion. I’ve seen people dance for days before their bodies gave out.” 

“Fuck,” Brian exclaimed, his hand stroked Justin’s hair, his fingers combing through the long blond silkiness of it. “Thanks for coming Doc. I owe you.” 

“You owe me alright, I was just in bed with my own playmate.” Doc had stood up and was on his way out. “Pardon me, partner,” he grinned. “Partner seems so grown up, I feel like a kid and he’s my <i>special</i> friend.”

Brian smiled,. “I know what you mean. Hey Doc, make sure the door is locked on your way out and can you put the do not disturb sign on the handle. I don’t want to wake him early.”

Doc nodded his agreement and left the room. Soon Brian heard the outside door being shut firmly behind the other man. He could finally relax, and almost laughed out loud, once again he found himself naked and in bed with Justin and once again no sex would be involved. 

Two hours later, Justin stirred; his dreams both thrilling and terrifying. He snuggled deeper into the embrace of his night lover, and his mind began to clear. The black fog that had filled him, disappeared into the netherworld, the longer his lover held him close. Justin’s last clear thought had been when he looked into his mirror to check his appearance before heading out the door. He had stepped into the hotel’s hallway and immediately had been filled with darkness.  It was only now that he realized how he’d allowed himself to be taken over by whatever dark demon had followed him from his old home. 

He ached all over, his muscles tight from unaccustomed exercise. He was fit and couldn’t understand what had been different about this night. He could smell only what had become a familiar scent;, one that he was learning to associate with safety and love; citrus, male pheromones, soap, cigarettes, cinnamon combined with the acrid taste of good whisky.  He felt a moan of pleasure rise up inside him demanding release into the skin of the man who held him and who he in turn held onto as if he were drowning. 

A comforting touch of long fingers in the small of his back tracing small circles, a whispered ‘shhhh’ before his lover’s breathing once again evened out in sleep. Justin was in that place when you’re asleep and awake at the same time. Unable to think clearly, or move, and barely able to breathe, yet his heart raced from whatever dream had wakened him. 

Had something entered his body? His head? Was it a fantasy of horror that had somehow become real? He desperately wanted answers, but had no one to ask. The terror of his old home seemed to be getting stronger, yet how was this possible with his father dead. Was the house or the spirits that lived there angry that he was returning stolen items? Items that they somehow were coveted because they hadn’t been sold, only stored in a half assed display that had become more like a junk shop than a house or museum. Justin had reviewed his father’s bank statements, and found that there had been no need for thievery. Money was plentiful. 

Justin opened his eyes to confirm that it was Brian’s arms he was in, and he realized that they were in his hotel room. Bits and pieces of his performance at Babylon drifted through his mind, but he wasn’t sure what was real and what was only his imagination. The part where Brian had rescued him was real; he knew that as sure as he breathed.  Once again he had been there to save his ass. Justin sighed with contentment. No one had ever before cared enough to put themselves in danger for him, but that’s what Brian had done. He wondered if Brian knew that it wasn’t good to offend whatever black magic practitioner had him in his sights. 

He moved until he could kiss Brian on the pulse spot just below his chin. He licked; his tongue flicking, tasting the salty sweat of the other man’s skin. The first taste of Brian made him want more; it was heroin for his soul. Justin smiled at the thought, but began to lick Brian clean like a cat would his prey, and he definitely was Justin’s prey. 

Growling low in his throat, Justin nipped gently at heat-softened nipples, causing the skin around them to firm up with arousal. He suckled deep, and Brian’s cock began to swell, trapped as it was between Justin’s body and it’s owner’s leg. 

The other man’s hands clutched Justin’s back, attempting to still his restless movements, even in sleep, wanting the blond safe, not realizing that the sleeping prince had awakened with a purpose. 

Brian stirred; he could feel Justin’s mouth moving over his body; his hot, wet, tongue flicking his skin, teeth nibbling lower, lower, lower. 

Justin’s nose buried in the musky fur of Brian’s pubes, and he breathed deeply. Savoring the scent, he chuckled, sending ripples of pleasure through both Brian’s body and his own. 

“Justin,” the word was more a prayer than anything else and Brian’s hands clasped Justin’s head not wanting him to move. 

“Shhhhh,” it was Justin’s turn to hush the other. His breath blew hot across the moist head of Brian’s cock. He smiled at the sharp intake of breath before moving forward allowing his mouth to engulf the whole of Brian’s cock, sucking, licking, kissing the length, moving over the end, blowing cool puffs of air, hand cradling full balls, tugging, thumb tracing the line between balls and hole, pressure, release, gurgling laughter, wet slipperiness, Brian’s fingers, clutching his head, releasing and clutching again, balls tightening, spasms of hot salty cum deep in his throat, sucking every drop, moving up, up, until their lips met in a bittersweet kiss. 

“Justin?” Brian whispered his voice a question. 

“Yes,” Justin purred, his lips against Brian’s pulling the older man into a deep and passion filled kiss. “That was to say thank you for rescuing me again.” 

Brian’s eyes opened wide as he took in what Justin had said. He pushed the other man away from him. “I don’t need your mercy blow jobs,” he hissed. “I didn’t come to your rescue expecting a reward.” 

“I know you didn’t. There’s something too innately good about you to do that.” Justin tried to move closer to Brian, it was cold even a few inches away. 

But Brian moved again. He realized all at once that he wanted whatever Justin could give him, but only if it was given from his heart and not because it was some kind of reward for a job well done. He could get that anytime in the backroom of Babylon. He made himself get out of bed, leaving Justin looking up at him, puzzled as to why he was standing there. “Now that you’re awake and appear to be yourself again. I’m going home. I don’t like to leave the kids there alone.” Brian pulled on his discarded clothing, never taking his eyes off of Justin. 

Watching Brian, Justin realized that somehow he’d said or done the wrong thing. What did the man want? “I didn’t mind,” he said finally, but from the darkening of Brian’s eyes, he knew he’d once again said something wrong. 

“Glad to hear it, Boyo,” Brian mumbled. “Later.” And in seconds he was out the door and on his way home leaving the blond sitting in bed with his taste on Justin’s lips. 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Jennifer walked around the main reception room in Aubrey’s family villa. The walls had a number of paintings that Justin had done over the years. He wasn’t the foremost artist like his father, but he could be; he certainly had the talent for it. Pictures of Molly and Justin at every age, filled silver frames that sat on tables and the mantle.  She picked up a picture of Justin at his graduation from the academy. He was so handsome in his captain’s uniform. Craig had refused to allow her to attend. If it hadn’t been for Aubrey, she wouldn’t even have had pictures. Thank gawd for the Internet and for password protected programs and an over confident husband who was sure she was under control. 

“He was the best looking cadet at the academy that day,” Aubrey came up behind her and rested his hand on her shoulder. “I was so proud of him when he gave his valedictorian speech. The rest of the cadets gave him a standing ovation despite the restrictions of their military training.” 

“I wish I’d been there,” she sighed. “But I’m so glad that you were able to go.” 

“I wouldn’t have missed it for the world,” he smiled remembering that day. “Even if dying my hair black and walking with a limp was annoying.”

“I bet you were hot,” she laughed. 

“You’re prejudiced.” He kissed her cheek. He picked up the graduation portrait that had been part of Justin’s final year at the university. “Now this graduation was not bad, but you have to give the military points for pomp and ceremony. Civilians are outclassed by military tradition… even the junior version.”

“I almost made that one.” Jennifer wiped a tear from the corner of her eye. “He caught me at the airport. It was like I was drugged as soon as he came close. I didn’t even argue, just walked over to him and resigned.” She looked at Aubrey. “Why did he have that kind of power over me? I’ve never understood it.” She leaned against her lover. “You know that’s part of why Justin had to leave; he never gave in to Craig. He was barely toddling and he refused to give way. Only once when some kind of important thing was going to happen, did Craig almost win. I was locked in my room with Molly, I think he drugged Justin. I do know that Justin had disappeared from his room. He was so young, so beautiful and I couldn’t protect him.”

“I know Babe, but Justin was okay. My men were about to rescue him when he was inadvertently rescued by a teenage Halloween prank. My sources tell me that Craig lost considerable stature with his group of merry men that night,” he laughed, his laugh rueful, “Luckily for me that kid was there, or my men would have been forced to show their hand. This way they could stay in the background keeping Justin safe.” 

“The things we did to survive,” Jennifer said leaning into Aubrey’s touch. “And now my poor Justin is forced to deal with Craig’s evil.”

“But he has us to help him.” Aubrey led her over to a chaise. “Sit down, I’ll bring you a glass of iced tea. I’m sure it won’t be long before Justin returns to his villa and when he does, we’ll go and see him. It’s time he knew everything.” 

“And Molly?” Jennifer asked. 

“And Molly as well.” He kissed her forehead before heading to the kitchen and the promised glass of iced tea. 

“Please God, I hope that they forgive us,” Jennifer whispered softly into the night.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Gus paced back and forth in front of the downtown building. He was in New York and Paul was eighteen stories above him. Gus was nervous. What had seemed like a fine idea back home, now seemed almost childish. Why shouldn’t the man have his privacy? He’d earned the right to be left alone. His phone rang and he answered it without looking at the display.

“How long are you going to wear out the sidewalk?” an amused voice said when the connection was made. 

“Paul?” Gus looked around.

“I can see you, but you can’t see me. I’m up here and if you had super vision, you’d see me waving. But considering you don’t, you’ll just have to take my word for it.” 

“I’m sorry that I bothered you,.” Gus’ voice was quiet. “I should have known better. I mean what right have I got to disturb your life?” 

“None that I know of except that you’re a teenager and thus you know everything. It’s the nature of the beast. You might as well come on up and we’ll get this over with.” 

“Maybe I should just go to Justin’s place. He said I could use his apartment.” 

“Justin’s place is my place you ninny,.” Paul laughed. “We have the whole eighteenth floor. Or is it the seventeenth, I never can figure that out what with the thirteenth floor in that never land of an architects mind.”

“Whoooo, too deep for me,” Gus laughed, his good humor restored. “I’ll be right up.” He disconnected and this time with confidence in his step entered the building. Justin had given him his keys and access codes. 

The elevator door opened when Gus flashed the key in front of an electronic eye. No key and the door wouldn’t open on that floor. He was surprised at the vast expanse of hardwood floor; it was almost like a dance studio. A grand piano stood at one end and Paul played something soft and lyrical, the notes filling the air. 

“Hey Gus, if you don’t mind, I won’t get up.” Paul kept his scarred side to the window as he continued to play.

“No problem.” Gus dropped his backpack on the floor, toed off his shoes and slid across the hardwood like it was a skating pond. “Cool,” he laughed sliding up to Paul’s bench. “I play you know.” 

“This is something I wrote a couple of years ago,” Paul said not looking at Gus. 

“It sounds nice.” Gus leaned over and kissed Paul’s cheek. “Hello Paul, my name is Gus,” he introduced himself with a voice filled with laughter. 

Paul stopped playing, his hands still on the piano keys frozen in place. “Why did you do that?” he whispered.

“Do what?” Gus asked, but he knew.

“Kiss me.”

“It’s a form of greeting. I would have shaken you hand, but they were both busy. You have great finger reach with the hand that’s scarred. I bet you had to work like hell to get the dexterity back.” 

“I did. The muscles had contracted, but there’s lots of exercises you can do.”

“You know you can look at me. I know your face is scarred and I imagine your body is too; if your hand is. It’s not like I’m going to run screaming from the room or faint or something. I’m not some pussy little fag.” Gus put his hand on Paul’s chin and slowly turned the young man’s face to his. “See that wasn’t bad. Now that we’ve got that shit out of the way; well, unless you want to strip naked,” he grinned. “Do you have any food? That airplane shit sucks and I was promised pizza.” 

Paul looked at Gus with wonder. He knew how he looked. He knew the extent of the scarring, and how it pulled the left side of his face so that it looked like a bad acid trip as it melted to his shoulder. Yet here was Gus acting like it was nothing. 
“Gus,” Paul hesitated, not sure what to say. Only Justin had ever seen him full on lately. “Gus…” he began again. 

“Paul, you were in an accident. You were hurt, and it sucks to be you. Now get on with it. I’m hungry and I bet you are too. You could sit here all <i> Phantom of the Opera </i> or we can have a great couple of days while I’m here. We can get to know one another. I might even get you in bed. I’m not bad as a lover.” He had his father’s patented tongue in cheek smirk on his face. 

“In your dreams,” Paul laughed, and it was a genuine laugh. All his fears were washed away with Gus’ words. “Hand me my crutches, you knocked them on the floor. I’ll order the pizza.” 

“Great,” Gus bent over and picked up the crutches. “These are some bad ass crutches. They look like they could be alive.” 

“Yeah, they kind of look like that exo skeleton on <i>Black Angel</i>, a television show of a couple of years ago.”

“Yeah, I’ve seen it on the SPACE network,” Gus laughed. “You’re right it does look like that. Hey, maybe we can invent something that would work. I mean if we can do programming we should be able to make a couple of legs.”

“I’ve been working on something. After the pizza comes I’ll show you,” Paul grinned at Gus feeling his age for the first time in years. It was a good feeling; one he’d almost forgotten. “If you want to wash up, there’s a bathroom over there. You can have the spare room right beside it.” 

“Great, I do have to pee,” Gus laughed. “I hate peeing on the plane. It’s like peeing in a closet.” 

“Thanks for the visual,” Paul laughed. “Hey, I’ve got some good music.” He walked to the media system that took up most of the wall with one thing or another.

“Hold that thought, I’ll be right back.” Gus grabbed his backpack off the floor and headed to the room that was to be his for the visit. He had other plans for Paul, but no point in scaring the guy.