Silent Night-2 By Elsa Rose Plot Bunny by Amanda “And because the head wound was untreated, it’s probably the cause along with emotional damage of Justin’s selective memory?.” Brian stated his question to the young doctor. “That’s right.” She said. “Well, we’ll deal with that later. Now I’m going to take Justin out of the cold.” Brian smiled at the boy who sat in his hospital gown and robe on the edge of the bed. “What do you mean Brian?” Justin asked. He looked at the older man with trust shining in his eyes. It was something Brian hoped would never go away. “Later Justin.” Brian said with a smile. He turned back to the doctor. They discussed Justin’s care for a few minutes and then she told Brian he could take the boy home. “But.” Justin began. “Goodbye Dr. Chanders and thanks.” Brian stood and shook the young doctor’s hand. “I’ll leave the prescriptions for Justin at the nursing station.” “We’ll make sure we stop and get them.” Daphne Chanders left the room. She’d barely cleared the door when a soft knock made both Brian and Justin turn. “Hi Boss, can I come in?” it was Cynthia. “Sure, Cynthia this is Justin Kinney. Justin this is Cynthia, my assistant.” “Hi Cynthia,” Justin’s voice was soft almost shy. “Hi Justin.” Cynthia was filled with a million questions, but she knew better than to ask Brian any of them. He would tell her in his own good time, if he told her at all. “I put your cases in the jeep.” She handed him a packet. “These are your tickets and Justin’s clothing so he doesn’t have to wear a hospital gown out of here.” “I appreciate it Cynthia.” “Boss, it was my pleasure. I love going to your apartment and snooping through your drawers.” She laughed. “Gawd you’re anal. I never saw such tidy drawers.” “I’ll be back on January 3rd. Remember, only in a dire emergency and I mean there has to be blood, do you call me with any message from the gang.” “What about Gus Brian, it’s Christmas after all.” “Gus is only a few months old. He won’t know the difference. Just send the gifts over like I asked and no one will miss me.” He shrugged. “Oh and Cynthia, your gift is in my top drawer in the office.” “Thanks boss.” She gave him a quick hug. “Goodbye Justin and Merry Christmas.” “Goodbye Cynthia.” Justin said. His eyes weren’t on Cynthia though; they were on the package in Brian’s hand. He wondered what was in it for him. “Open it up.” Brian said. He could see that Justin was anxious to see what was in the parcel. Justin tore the paper off of the parcel, not noticing Brian wince at the ripping paper. “Shit Brian, this is an awesome sweatshirt and wow, the perfect cargo pants. There are socks and underwear and Nikes. Cool.” “I see Cynthia picked out things that you liked.” Brian sighed. “I wouldn’t have chosen cargo pants.” “Everyone wears them Brian.” Justin was glad he’d had the hot shower earlier. It was nice to be clean all over and then have new clothes to put on. He hadn’t felt this good in months. He pulled on the underwear. “Hold on Sonnyboy, let’s take the tags off everything first.” Brian laughed. “Roll over I’ll pull it off.” Justin blushed but rolled over. Brian’s fingers sent a shock of heat right through to his groin. He managed to pull the covers over his lap as he turned back. He grabbed the socks and bent over to put them on. “Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve had clean socks?” Justin asked rhetorically. He sighed in pleasure and wiggled his toes before taking the tag off of the pants and pulling them on. Cargo pants were great for hiding partial erections. “I still feel like shit, but damn I look good.” He grinned up at Brian and Brian remembered why he called him Sunshine. Studying the typed itinerary Cynthia had included in the package. Brian only half paid attention as Justin finished dressing. “I’m ready to go.” Justin said. He grabbed the heavy coat. “It’s been real great meeting you Brian.” He held out his hand to shake hands. “Thanks a lot for the clothes and you know, for staying with me.” “You’re going with me Justin.” Brian stood up. “We’ll talk on the way to the airport.” “Airport?” Justin was mystified. “That’s right.” Brian took the coat from Justin’s arms and held it for him to put on. “Come on Sunshine.” Brian held out his hand. “Into the wheel chair for your official escort out of the hospital.” “You’re joking right?” Justin said staring at the wheel chair. “No, get in. Your new life is about to begin Justin Taylor Kinney.” Brian wheeled him out of the hospital room and over to the nursing station where they picked up a small white bag of pills. “Justin, I’m sure that these will work fine for you.” Daphne came walking over. “I want you to promise to finish the prescription even if you start to feel better.” “I will.” Justin said. “He will.” Brian echoed before pushing a laughing Justin quickly to the elevator. They laughed all the way down to the exit. A smiling nurse followed the two of them to make sure Justin was all right. “I’ll bring the car over.” Brian said to the nurse. “I can walk with you.” Justin protested. “Not today Sunshine. You have pneumonia.” Brian’s long strides took him across the parking lot. “Cool, a jeep.” Justin said as he struggled to do up the seat belt. His long overcoat kept blocking the clasp. “Don’t you remember the trip to the hospital?” Brian asked. “Not hardly. I remember I had to burn up all my sketches to keep warm.” Justin turned away to hide the sudden tears that came to his eyes. “I couldn’t burn the one of you.” “I noticed.” Brian said. “It’s in the glove compartment.” “It is, you saved it?” Justin leaned forward and opened the glove box in front of him. There was his picture carefully rolled. He took it out and opened it up. Brian’s face stared out at him. Justin smiled before rolling it back up and putting it back. He leaned back in the seat and shut his eyes. He still had a little piece of what he’d done in the last few months. He wasn’t completely gone. “Aren’t you going to ask where we’re going?” “No” “Why not, I could be a lecherous bastard who wants to have my way with you. You can’t just go with any stranger.” “If I was going to do that, I would have been dressed better and at least living in an apartment or something and not on the street.” Justin turned to Brian. “I trust you, after all you are a Kinney, just like I am.” He grinned at Brian. “I kind of like being a Kinney.” “You should meet my mother, she’s a hell-bitch, and you might have a different opinion then.” Brian’s tone was dry. “We’re going to visit a friend of mine. He’s agreed to have you live with his family while you finish high school. I’ve got you enrolled in a private school and Josh is getting you some ID in the name of Justin Kinney. Your school records from Saint James are being altered to reflect your name change.” “Holy shit, you think of everything.” Justin looked at Brian in admiration. “It comes from years of reading comic books. They are full of intrigue like this.” “I’ve never read comics. You’re kidding right?” “No I’m not kidding. My best friend has had me reading comic books since I was fourteen.” “You’re what, twenty eight now?” “Good guess, but no, I’m twenty, thirty.” Brian admitted. “That’s not too old.” “Old enough to learn a few life lessons.” Brian shrugged as he turned into the airport and headed toward the long term parking lot. Justin found himself bundled into a waiting shuttle along with Brian and four suitcases. “This is kind of exciting.” Justin said before he began to cough again. He was almost blue with lack of oxygen when he managed to stop the cough. Brian was rubbing his back and wondering why he hadn’t thought of bringing a bottle of water along. “I’m okay Brian.” Justin finally stopped coughing. “I shouldn’t have laughed, it makes me cough.” “When we get to Josh’s place you’ll start to feel better. He lives just outside of Phoenix.” “In Arizona?” “That’s the place.” The next few minutes were busy with the two of them checking in at Liberty Air and then boarding the plane that was about to take off. Brian was thankful for the connections he had with the airline or he never would have been able to get a seat this close to Christmas. “I’ve never flown first class before.” Justin said when they were settled in their seats. “Have you ever flown before?” Brian asked. “I don’t think so.” Justin shrugged. “I know you probably think I’m making things up, but I really don’t remember much about before. I mean before I ended up on the street. I do remember my mother. I think it’s my mother, she’s blond like me. And I’m pretty sure I had a younger sister. I can remember Christmas with everyone laughing and having fun. What I can’t remember is my father. I mean I must have one. But when I try to think about him, my head starts to ache and I feel almost terrified. It’s kind of weird.” “What about school, you went to Saint James. According to your records you have almost a four point zero average. That takes some doing. “ Brian had handed their coats to the steward to put away and he was now making sure Justin’s seat belt was fastened. “School pretty much sucked for me. I do remember that. I had a lot of strikes against me.” “Going to Saint James, I would have thought you had it pretty good.” “Well for one thing I’m gay, for another I’ve been involved with art in one form or another since like forever. I don’t do sports unless forced and I grade higher than anyone else. Of course being cute and blond didn’t help either.” “Pretty sure of yourself.” “That was also part of the problem. I didn’t apologize for who I am. If the fact I’m gay bugged them, then tough shit.” Justin’s chin tilted up. “What did your parents say about having a gay son?” Brian asked gently. “I, I, don’t know. I can’t remember, I don’t think … he turned away but not before Brian saw a tear run down his face. Brian had an investigator working on finding out about Justin Taylor. He’d know soon enough. Whether he told Justin or not, he’d have to decide later. “Justin, don’t think about it. Everything is going to work out. I’m your guardian now.” “I’m eighteen Brian, I don’t need a guardian. What I need is a job of some kind and not a flight to Arizona.” “What I’m offering you is a chance to recover. I’m offering you a chance to live with a family and go to finish up high school like you should be. And when you’re ready for University, I’m offering you the chance to go.” “Okay Brian, let’s get this straight. I am not going to let you pay my way like some kind of sugar daddy. If I had wanted to whore myself, I would have already done it. Maybe being a Kinney isn’t such a good idea.” “Justin, calm down. I’m not doing this for you and expecting anything in return other than you’ll do your best to be the best homosexual you can be.” He looked into the deep blue eyes of the young man beside him. “Justin, I want to do this for you. I don’t know why. I just do.” “Could it be a loan, I mean any money that you spend on me?” “It could be a loan.” Brian agreed, “But only for your school expenses. Anything else is a gift.” “Brian, I really do want to do this my own way.” Justin protested feeling foolish; for he knew how dismally he’d failed. “Justin, a man needs to know when to ask for help.” Brian took Justin’s hand in his and threaded their fingers together. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “Brian” Brian was enveloped in the arms of huge bear of a man and kissed soundly on the lips. “You are just as handsome as ever.” He hugged him close again. “Let me go you big bear.” Brian laughed. “I see you haven’t changed except for your tan. Haven’t you heard that sun screen is every fag’s friend?” “You should talk. I happen to know you have a lifetime membership at the tanning salon.” Justin stood there too shy to say anything as he watched the interaction between Brian and his friend. “Raj where in hell is Josh, I thought he’d be meeting us.” Brian laughed. He turned to Justin. “Justin, meet Raj.” “Pleased to meet you Justin.” Raj enveloped Justin in a hug. “Take that damn heavy coat off. It has to be a 110 in the shade.” He turned to Brian. “Josh is dealing with a severe case of the sulks. Melinda isn’t taking it well that she is no longer an only child. We picked up Will yesterday.” “Hi Raj.” Justin said as he shrugged out of the heavy coat. He shivered in the air-conditioned airport. “Who’s Melinda and Will?” “Justin are you alright?” Brian asked concern on his face. “I guess I feel the cold easily.” He said with a shrug. “I know the coat looks silly here, but I’m cold.” Raj looked at the young boy. He did seem cold. “We’ll collect your bags and soon we’ll be out in the sun. Melinda is our daughter, she’s three and Will is our son. He’s only two days old, but is proving a handful. He already rules the house. Melinda was so sweet and quiet. Will is all boy.” “Right Raj, I know your car is going to be just as cold.” Brian laughed. He shrugged out of his leather jacket and put it around Justin’s shoulders. “There that won’t look as out of place. We’ll see about getting you something more suitable once we’re settled. I can’t wait to meet the kids.” Though he could do without the drama, Brian knew that immersing Justin in this happy household filled with dogs and cats and kids not to mention two men who were very much in love, would be the best thing for the boy. Brian and Raj chatted while they waited for the baggage. Justin stayed quietly listening and absorbing everything. His fingers itched for a sketch pad. Raj was an interestingly handsome man. He was so different from Brian. Sketching them together would be great. And sketching them nude would be even better. Soon they had collected their luggage and were heading for the car park. Justin found it deliciously warm. He reviled in the heat. Brian on the other hand wilted and was happy to get into the substantial BMW. “Our house isn’t far from here, but I do need to stop at the Mall and pick up a couple of things.” “That’ll work for us. Justin needs more clothes. I know Cynthia has some in the bags, but I think I’d like to have some input into what he’s wearing.” “Sorry Brian, but Justin is sitting right here and oddly enough can think for himself. No one is telling me how to dress.” Justin glared at the older man. “You do need some other clothes Justin.” Brian began. “I’ll get a job and buy clothes.” “We discussed this. I’ll buy you what you need.” “I don’t need anything.” “It’s a gift Justin. Accept it.” “No.” Justin turned his head to stare out the window. He hunched into Brian’s leather jacket. He didn’t like having his life taken over. “Justin, I know that you feel you need your independence and I completely agree. Josh and I discussed your situation. I know Brian wants you to finish high school and attend University. We actually were going to talk to you about this later, but we do have need of someone to help us with the kids and to help Josh in his studio. He’s an artist and he specializes in large projects for corporate clients. He’s always looking for someone to help, but because we live out of the city, he can’t keep anyone for long. You’d be living at the house. We planned on offering you a decent wage. You can repay Brian for anything he spends today on clothing out of your pay if you accept the job.” Raj looked at Justin through the rear view mirror and smiled. “Do you mean it? I mean that you have a real job for me and not something that you and your husband made up?” Justin’s voice was nervous. “I really mean it.” Raj grinned. “The more you help out, the less I have to. I’d rather work outside. I’m a landscape architect. Being inside is not my favorite thing.” “But Justin, you have to let me buy you at least one or two things. I like to shop. You might even say I live to shop.” Brian turned and grinned at the boy in the back seat. “Will you accept a late birthday gift from me?” “You’ve done so much Brian.” Justin began. “I haven’t done anything that you wouldn’t have done yourself in the same position. Someday you can return the favor with another young person.” It was the end of the argument. They arrived at the mall and as much as Brian hated mall shopping, he did get a kick out of making sure that Justin had everything he’d need. Raj tracked them down at the food court where Justin was eating his lunch and Brian was playing with his food. “I see by the packages that you two are ready.” Raj grinned. Brian look exhausted but Justin, despite his illness looked revitalized. “We even have some stuff being delivered.” Justin announced. “I hope that was okay.” “Of course it’s okay. Almost everything I bought is being delivered.” He laughed. “We were expecting the new baby, just not this soon. He was born two weeks early.” “And Josh didn’t have everything ready?” Brian laughed. “I would have thought he’d have been ready weeks ago.” “He would have, but like I was saying he needs an assistant. The last one quit right in the middle of a project and Josh was stuck doing everything himself. To say he’s been a grouch is an understatement.” Raj laughed. “Justin you’re going to earn every penny.” “I can hardly wait.” Justin smiled. “Sunshine is an artist himself.” Brian bragged. “I’ve seen his work.” “Brian, you only saw one picture.” “But it was a good picture.” Brian said. “Of course the subject is exceptional.” He pretended to pose and Justin laughed. “Justin, I’m beat, can you get me a cold drink, maybe a coke?” Raj handed Justin a ten dollar bill. “Get yourself something as well.” “Sure” Justin stood up and headed for a kiosk. “Brian are you sure you know what you’re doing?” Raj asked his old friend. “This young man has been through a lot. Though I can certainly see he’s no hard core street person.” Raj looked over at Justin who was glowing in the filtered sunlight that came through the overhead skylight. “Raj, there’s something about him that twists my gut. I don’t know why. Maybe I’m going through some crisis because I turned thirty. But when ever I look at him something demands that I make sure he’s okay.” He shook his head. Justin was heading back. When he noticed Brian’s stare he beamed. “Hey” he said and handed Raj a glass beaded with cold water. “The iced tea looked good so I got you one Brian.” He handed Brian a glass as well. “And what did you get for yourself Sunshine?” Brian asked, pleased that Justin had thought of him. “A chocolate soda, I love these things.” He offered it to Brian. “Try some, they’re addictive.” “No thanks, I’ll stick to the iced tea. Thanks for not putting sugar in it.” Brian drank deeply of the refreshing beverage. “I just figured you wouldn’t want anything sweet.” Justin giggled, “My grandmother used to say it was because ‘you’re sweet enough.’ “I guess she never met Brian then,” Raj laughed. “Brian is sweet.” Justin said and then with a slurping sound he finished the soda. “Sorry, I couldn’t stop. It was too good.” “I think we’d better get home. Josh is going to be sending out a search party.” Raj stood up and gathered together the bags he had put down. “It’ll be nice to see Josh and the kids.” Brian said. “Come on Sunshine, let’s rock and roll.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin watched with interest as they turned down a winding driveway that seemed to go on forever. The house that appeared finally was amazing. It was set in the desert hills and seemed to blend into them. “I see Josh has put on a couple of additions.” Brian commented. “Yes, he’s added an attached guest house, that’s where you and Justin will stay and Justin will live while he attends school. He also added on to the studio. I rarely go in there though. I’m sure Justin will enjoy it. I’m just not artistically inclined. “ “Did you design the landscaping?” Justin asked. “Actually, yes it’s my work.” Raj admitted. “Well you can’t say that you aren’t artistic. You’ve created something wonderful out of desert terrain.” He smiled shyly, not sure if he should have said anything. “I mean I can’t even grow anything and look what you’ve done. It’s a fantasy garden without water.” “Actually, with a holding tank and a series of pipes, I’m able to use the gray water in the house to water everything that needs it here in the front as well in the back.” “Gray water?” Brian asked before Justin could say anything. “Yes, the water from baths and showers and the laundry. We use environmentally friendly soaps and recycle the water. It works great.” He parked the car in the garage and turned it off. “I’ll show you to your rooms, and when you’re unpacked, come and join the family. We’ll be in the main part of the house.” “Sorry there’s only one bed, but the sofa works as a bed and it’s comfy, or so I’m told.” Raj said as he showed the two from Pittsburgh the guest house. “Use the door over there. It opens up onto an enclosed patio; the main part of the house is directly across from your door.” When the door shut only the sound of the air-conditioner could be heard. Brian and Justin stood in the center of the room, their luggage and various bags surrounding them. “One bed.” Justin said quietly. “I hope you don’t snore.” “You can sleep on the sofa Sunshine.” Brian laughed and began to carry their luggage to the bedroom. “No way Brian, I’m still sick. I’ve got pneumonia.” Justin coughed for effect. He really wanted to sleep with the handsome man who had become his savior. “Well, I’m older than you are as you so often point out and I need to get a comfortable night’s sleep.” Brian opened up the suitcases. “Now unpack your stuff. So we can get this place tidied up.” “Brian, we just got here.” Justin had turned on the television. He actually was beginning to feel the effects of the day. Brian had made him take his medication when they were in the mall and he was getting sleepy. “We’ll have a nap once the suitcases are empty, it’ll only take a few minutes.” Brian began to unpack. In a few minutes Justin walked into the room and started to help. They agreed to share the drawers and closet space. Justin was impressed with the large shower built for two. He could only imagine what showering in the glass enclosure would be like with Brian. Not that the man would ever do such a thing. He kept referring to Justin as a kid. But he wasn’t a kid, he was a young man and horny as hell. Justin threw himself on the bed when they had emptied the last suitcase and Brian had folded up the last of the bags from the mall. “I’m beat Brian.” “Go lie down on the sofa.” Brian turned to put his toiletry bag in the bathroom. When Brian returned to the bedroom, Justin was sound asleep. He’d toed off his new shoes and lay there on his back sleeping peacefully. Brian left him there, but turned down the air-conditioner so that Justin wouldn’t get chilled. “Josh, you’re looking good.” Brian said when he walked into the kitchen. His friend was standing at the stove, a baby in his arms while he stirred something. Melinda was sitting at the table coloring. “Hey Mel, can I see your picture?” “No Uncle Brian, it’s a private picture.” She continued to color. “Can you tell me what it is?” “It’s my boyfriend.” “Aren’t you a little bit young for a boyfriend?” “No, I’m three.” She said. “I can have as many boyfriends as I want, my daddy said so.” “Is that so? You have a very understanding daddy.” Brian grinned at Josh who rolled his eyes. “Are you here to take my baby Will away?” she looked up at Brian. “He’s no fun to play with you know. All he does is cry.” “He’s not crying now.” Brian observed looking at the sleeping baby in the Josh’s arms. “That’s ‘cause poppa is carrying him. You wait. As soon as he puts him away in his room, he goes off. It’s absolutely freaking me out.” She said dramatically throwing her hands up and raising her shoulders. “Sorry Mel girl, but I have my own baby. I don’t need another one.” “Daddy and poppa said you have a boyfriend and his name is Justin.” “Daddy and poppa are delusional.” Brian glared at Josh who smirked back. “What’s del…sin – what does that mean?” the little girl asked. “Maybe you should ask your daddy.” Brian stood up. “Josh, I just wanted to say that I’m going to rest for an hour or so. It’s been a long day and even longer last couple of days. I’m beat.” “No problem. Dinner is at seven after the rug rats are in bed. Why don’t you and Justin come on over about six thirty?” “We’ll do that.” Brian kissed the little girl and left to head back to Justin. As soon as he entered the small guest house, Brian knew that something was wrong. He could hear whimpering coming from the bedroom. It was Justin, he was dreaming and it wasn’t good. Brian could hear the terror in the boy’s tone and he thrashed from side to side. He walked over to the bed and touched Justin’s shoulder hoping to ground him. Instead Justin pulled away and curled into a fetal position. Suddenly he began to sob. Brian did the only thing he could think of. He crawled onto the bed beside Justin and pulled him into his arms. Justin resisted his body stiff and unyielding but gradually, as Brian whispered words of comfort to the younger man and rubbed his back, Justin relaxed until he was once again sleeping peacefully. Brian was exhausted; it had been a long time since he’d allowed himself to do any more than cat nap. Justin was warm and felt good in his arms. The boy nuzzled his nose into Brian’s neck, much like Gus did when he slept. Gradually Brian too fell asleep, his one hand combing through Justin’s hair, his other holding him tight. Justin woke up gradually, he was warm, but his head ached and his eyes burned. His nose was stuffed and his throat felt thick. Shit he must have been crying in his sleep again. It always made him feel like shit. As he became aware of where he was, Justin realized that the soft breathing that was so close to him came from Brian. And it was Brian’s arms that held him in a tight embrace. He calmed somewhat and melted into the hard body that held him close. If he’d been a cat he would have purred. “Are you awake?” it was a soft whisper from the end of the bed. Justin jumped up startled waking Brian. He stared at the little girl who was sitting on the bed holding a large gray cat. “Who are you?” Justin asked. “That’s my Uncle Brian. Is he your boyfriend?” Melinda asked as she stroked the purring cat. “Melinda girl, what are you doing in here?” Brian asked, he wiped his hands through his hair. “You’ve got funny hair Uncle Brian.” She giggled. “Daddy said to tell you that dinner will be ready soon.” “I thought you were going to be in bed.” Brian said. He sat up on the side of the bed, his arms feeling strangely empty. “I cried and cried and cried and daddy said I could have dinner with you.” She looked satisfied. Brian rolled his eyes and Justin giggled. “What’s your cat’s name?” Justin asked Melinda. “Her name is Shadow. But Poppa calls her ‘that damn cat’. “ Melinda let the cat go and crawled up to sit beside Justin. “You’ve got pretty hair. I wish my hair was that color.” “I like your hair.” Justin said. “It’s long and curly and the prettiest shade of red.” “I bet I’d look totally awesome if I had purple hair.” Justin reached for the sketch book he’d bought earlier and the package of colored pencils. Soon he presented Melinda with a picture of her with purple hair and the cat Shadow staring at her in shock. Melinda rolled on the bed engulfed in giggles. Brian came out of the bathroom and looked at the two on the bed. “Time to get ready for dinner Sunshine, you might want to wash your face.” Justin grinned at him and headed for the bathroom. He wasn’t surprised to see that his eyes were red. They always were when he cried. It’s what happened when you had blue eyes and fair skin. He soaked a cloth in cold water and put it on his eyes for a few minutes. It would have to do. When he returned from the bathroom Brian and Melinda were heading out the door. “Hurry up Sunshine.” Melinda said. “I’m starving to death.” Justin laughed and ran to catch up. “Meds Sunshine, go back and take your meds.” Brian said. And then he laughed out loud when Justin sighed dramatically and flounced back into the guest house. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “So Justin, do you want to come with me to my studio?” Josh asked. “Brian and Raj can tidy up.” Justin laughed at the idea of Brian cleaning the kitchen and Brian rolled his eyes but stood up and started to clear the table. “Go with Josh Sunshine. His studio always was interesting even to me.” Impulsively Justin gave Brian a quick kiss on his cheek before heading out of the kitchen with Josh. “Brian, earth to Brian.” Raj teased. “Hmmmm, I’d say that you have it.” “Have what?” Brian turned to Raj. “You’ve been bitten by the bug. It’s rather contagious you know.” He laughed and looked at Melinda. “Melinda knows what kind of bug don’t you sweetie.” “The LOVE BUG Uncle Brian,” she shouted. She launched herself off of her chair and into Brian’s arms. “I’m sleepy.” Brian handed the little girl to Raj. “That’s your department Raj, I don’t have experience in getting little girls ready for bed.” Justin and Josh had reached the studio. “This is where it all happens Justin.” Josh said as he threw back the wide double door. “I’m working on a commission right now for the airport in Dallas. It’s rather a large piece.” He laughed, “But my stuff usually is. I just cast the bronze and now I need to burnish it. That’s where you are going to come in. I’ll pay you by the hour. You can record your hours in the book over here.” He picked up a blue book. “But I’ll also pay you for each project. You’ll understand better when we begin working together. I do expect you to keep up your studies and to let me know if your hours in my studio are interfering.” Josh put his hand on Justin’s shoulder. “Don’t give up a social life here either. I don’t want you to think I have hired myself a live in slave.” Justin laughed. “I know that. I really appreciate this chance. The doctor said that my head was injured months ago and that’s why I’m having some problems with my memory. That and the fact that I seemed to have suffered some kind of emotional trauma. I guess I wasn’t as tough as I thought I was. I don’t want to mess this opportunity up.” “Justin, if Brian has taken you under his wing, there is no chance you’ll mess anything up. Brian has confidence in you and that’s good enough for Raj and myself.” “Can I ask you a question about Brian?” Justin looked at Josh. “I don’t really know him very well.” “Well enough to know that as Justin Kinney, you’ll be safe.” Josh answered. “That should tell you something. I understand you asked Brian if you could keep the name.” “I did. I does make me feel secure.” He turned away. “I don’t want to disappoint him. I have the feeling that I’ve disappointed others in my life. Brian is too important to me. I don’t want him to ever be disappointed in me.” “Justin, you’ll get to know Brian Kinney with time. He’s a very private person and it wouldn’t be right for me to tell tales about him. But I can tell you that we met when we were both in University. Circumstances brought us together and we’ve been friends ever since. Good friends. He never forgets his friends. I think maybe (IT’S)because he allows very few people close enough to him to earn the title ‘friend’” “Thanks for telling me that much at least Josh.” Justin sighed. “I really like him but I think he thinks of me as a little kid.” “I’m sure that he doesn’t think of you as a child if that’s what’s worrying you. Though there is an age spread between the two of you.” “Eleven years and seven months. I figured it out.” Justin replied. “That’s not too bad. And it’s not as if Brian is old and decrepit. And I’m pretty old for my age. I think it could work.” “Do you mind if I as YOU a question?” Josh said trying not to show his amusement at Justin’s naiveté. “Go ahead.” “Have you ever had any kind of gay relationship? I guess what I’m asking is, have you had sex yet?” “Not real sex. Just you know, hand jobs and stuff. Just fooling around. I kind of wanted my first time to be with someone I love.” “You do know that most young gay boys, don’t wait for ‘love’ but rather have many partners before they ever find the right one and settle down. And Brian has rather a big reputation in that department. He doesn’t believe in love despite couples like Raj and I. He does believe in fucking, with no emotion involved.” “He can change.” Justin said with force. “I mean, it’s not like he’s ever had anyone love him like I do.” “You don’t know that.” “I do know that, because if someone loved him like I do, then they would be together. Would you have taken no for an answer with Raj?” he watched Josh shake his head. “There you go. I know that Brian isn’t ready and I’m not either, though I wish I was. But I have too many issues to work through. But I love him. I have for a long time, though I never thought I’d ever have a chance to meet him much less actually be with him. I just hope that he waits for me.” “You are quite the little schemer.” Josh laughed. “I wish you all the luck in the world. I think maybe my good friend Brian Kinney has met his match. It’ll be an interesting four years while you go to school.” Arm in arm the two men went back to the kitchen, arriving just as Brian and Raj finished cleaning up. “Where did you stash Melinda?” Justin asked. “Melinda is all tucked up in bed, and that’s where you’re going to be soon Sunshine.” Brian said as he gave Justin a quick hug. “It’s almost time for your evening meds and I don’t think an early night will exactly hurt you.” “I think that’s a great idea for all of us.” Raj added. “Tomorrow we start decorating for Christmas. I’d like to put Justin as the resident artist to work helping me. I know Josh is going to be busy in the studio.” “I bet Brian will be good decorating too.” Justin offered.’ “That’s where you’d be wrong Justin. I never decorate for Christmas. In fact I don’t even do Christmas. I plan on spending my day by the pool.” “You’ll get all brown and wrinkly, like old shoes.” Justin snickered imagining. “My boots are Prada and believe me they aren’t old and wrinkly.” Brian stated. “We’ll see.” Justin stood on his tip toes to kiss Josh’s cheek and then Raj’s. “Thanks so much for everything. I’ll see you in the morning. Christmas was always my favorite time of year. I can’t imagine an Arizona Christmas. This is going to be fun.” Brian shook his head and headed out toward the guest house. Justin soon followed. Inside the guest house, Justin kicked off his shoes and threw himself on the sofa. “Look at the sky outside Brian; it seems to go on forever. Everything is so clear here.” He was looking out through a window that seemed to show off the entire desert scape. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say that you were avoiding bed.” Brian laughed. He found a bottle of Jim Beam and poured himself some in a crystal glass and sat down beside Justin. “Can I have a drink?” Justin asked. “There’s some juice in the refrigerator.” “I want what you have.” “Not while you’re taking medication Sunshine.” Brian replied. He was surprised when Justin turned and put his head on Brian’s lap. Justin looked up at him. “Okay, I don’t really like Beam anyway.” He thought for a moment. “Thanks.” “For what?” “For this afternoon. I know you must have helped me when I was dreaming. I have these killer nightmares all the time. It was pretty bad when I was living on the street. The night is so silent and when I’d make any noise, I would attract too much attention.” Brian’s hand began to comb through Justin’s hair, smoothing it back while he thought about what the boy said. “We’ll work it out Justin. Maybe you we should find you someone to help you through this. Dr. Chanders did suggest you might need some counseling.” “I don’t need any counseling, I have you.” Justin shut his eyes. The feeling Brian’s thigh under his head and his finger’s in his hair was overwhelming and sensual. “I won’t be here forever Justin. I do have a company to run.” “Are you leaving me here?” “Yes, we talked about that. You need to spend at least a year if not two in this climate. You know I have a job in Pittsburgh.” “But I’m going to die of loneliness.” Justin said dramatically. He sat up and then straddled Brian’s lap so that he could look into the older man’s eyes. Brian laughed out loud as his arms went around Justin to steady him. “You have drama princess down pat that’s for sure. You can talk to me on the phone and there is always email.” “But four years is a long time.” “You’ll make new friends here.” “What about visits, will you at least come and visit me?” “Of course I’ll come and visit you. I never said I wasn’t going to visit. I’d like to see how my money is being spent.” “You’re a real asshole you know.” “So I’ve been told.” Brian grinned at him. “We’ll get you a cell phone and I’ll program in all my numbers for you. I’ll always be available to you.” “I need a computer but it goes on what I owe you.” Justin said. “I’ll add it to the list.” “I’m sleepy; these damn drugs make me sleepy.” Justin rested his head on Brian’s shoulder. He wasn’t that sleepy but he figured it would give him a chance to be close to the older man. He snuggled closer when Brian began to rub circles on his back. “Bed time Justin.” Brian whispered. “Can you sleep with me?” Justin pulled back and looked into Brian’s eyes. “We slept together this afternoon and it was okay.” “I suppose, it is a big bed.” Brian agreed. “But keep your hands to yourself. I’m not going to be accused of child molesting.” “I’m not a child and you know it.” Justin leaned in and kissed Brian on his lips. Brian resisted at first but then the power of the seduction was too much for him and he held Justin close while the two of their tongues twisted together. It was only when the hardness of Justin’s cock pressed urgently against Brian’s belly, that Brian pulled back breathless. “Justin, we can’t do this. I can’t do this.” “I can.” “No you can’t. You’ve been ill and I’m twelve years older than you are.” “Eleven years and seven months.” Justin was nibbling on Brian’s ear. “Whatever, you know what I mean.” “I want you to fuck me.” “I want to fuck you too, but I’m not going to.” Brian stroked Justin’s back. “Maybe someday. But not now Sunshine, I don’t want to take advantage of you no matter how much I want you.” His voice was soft and Justin had to strain to hear it. “We’ll have these few days together. We’ll learn about each other and with luck we’ll become friends.” “Will you wait for me?” Justin asked. “Will you wait for me to finish school?” “That was never in doubt Sunshine.” Brian held Justin close and together they listened to the silence of the night.