Silent Night-6 By Elsa Rose Plot Bunny by Amanda “You aren’t asleep are you?” Justin’s voice was quiet. He didn’t move. He didn’t want Brian to stop holding him. From the light in the room, he knew it was approaching dawn. “No, I’m not sleeping.” Brian gave him a gentle squeeze. “Do you want to talk?” he asked. “No” “I think we should.” Brian’s voice was gentle. “Let me tell you what I think happened. I think you were out partying and came home drunk. You’re eighteen and horny and Max came on to you. Next thing you know, you’ve fucked her. Which by the way is precisely what Max wanted to happen, so don’t be feeling sorry for her.” “How do you know what happened?” Justin had some belligerence in his voice though he knew he shouldn’t. Brian was being reasonable. “Because it happened to me once, and I had the same reaction that you did.” “Really?” Justin sighed deeply. “Were you scared too?” “Yes.” Brian’s answer was simple, but the truth. “I was scared and ashamed and embarrassed. I felt I’d fucked up both my life and hers and there was no going back to fix it.” “What did you do?” Justin said quietly, surprised at Brian’s revelation. “I talked to her and explained that it was a one time only happening. I explained that what she and I did wasn’t something that should have happened and that it wouldn’t happen again. It was tough for a while. We’d been good friends and we are now, but for a few weeks things were pretty weird. She was sure she’d turned me hetero and I was sure that she’d tricked me. But you and I both know that there is no such thing as being so drunk you don’t know what’s happening. You damn well do know, you may not have the balls to stop it, but you know.” “Are you mad at me?” Justin had to ask. “No I’m not mad. I’m a bit disappointed, but I’m not mad. Justin,” Brian paused, he wasn’t sure if he should continue in this vein. “Justin, I care for you. I care for you a great deal. There is nothing that you can do that would ever change how I feel about you, nothing. You might piss me off temporarily, but that’s what friends and lovers do. It’s not an easy road having a long term relationship. You have to work at it. We both have to work at it.” “I’m sorry Brian. I knew it was wrong when I was doing it. You’re right about that. I really like Max. I even love her, but like a friend, not like I do you. All the time it was happening I was imagining you.” He looked down, “And when it was over, I was imagining that you’d hate me. That it would be like the night I told my parents I was gay. Yeah, I remembered.” His hand went to the back of his head. “I remembered everything, even this.” Brian’s hand touched the scar through Justin’s blond head. “I’m almost sorry you had to find out everything about this.” His finger stroked the jagged length of the scar. “I had to know someday.” Justin sighed again and Brian was reminded of a puppy dog with its expressive sighs. “Yes you did.” Brian replied. “And now you can move past it.” “Brian, what am I going to do about Max?” It hurt Justin to have to ask the question. “You are going to talk to her. I’ll be here if you need me.” Brian stood up. “Why don’t you make me some coffee, while I shower? You know, you never did ask me why I was here.” “Hey, Brian, that’s right. I just kind of think that you’ll be there for me like some kind of super hero. I never thought to ask why you were here. “ Justin stood up unsteadily, his head ached and his stomach churned. “My red cape is at the cleaners.” Brian joked. “You look like shit Sunshine.” “I feel like shit.” Justin admitted. “Physically and emotionally.” He pulled on a pair of sweats. “I’ll make some coffee.” “I don’t suppose you have any of those low fat apple muffins.” Brian asked. “I froze some the last time you were here. I’ll nuke one for you.” Justin smiled at Brian. It wasn’t often that Brian asked him for something he’d cooked. It made him feel good. Brian was such a drama queen about food that Justin was never sure if the man actually liked what he cooked. Justin walked to the small kitchen. He was starting the coffee when he heard. “Hey Justin.” His head turned to face Max who was slowly making her way down the hall. He could tell she was concentrating. “Max, we have to talk.” Justin said as he turned the coffee pot on and found the muffins. “I know, last night was wonderful.” “No last night sucked big time.” Justin glared at her. “I’m gay and I thought I was your friend. You took advantage of me when I was drunk.” “You knew what you were doing. I could tell.” Max’s chin went up defiantly. “Fuck Max, what were you thinking of? You could be pregnant, or catch something. We didn’t use protection. You know that Brian and I are intimate. For all you know I could have AIDs or something.” “HIV and if you had it, I’d know.” She turned her back on him trying to control her emotions. This wasn’t working out like she’d thought it would. “Besides, you can’t get pregnant if you only do it once.” “Bull shit Max and you know it.” Justin walked over and stepped in front of her. “What happens if you’re pregnant? Are you prepared to raise a child, because I sure the fuck am not. “ “There’s the morning after pill.” She tilted her chin up. She had no intention of taking any damn pill. If she got pregnant then Justin would have to stay with her. Justin poured himself a coffee from the still dripping coffee maker, causing it to splash and hiss. He couldn’t be bothered to find cream and sugar, instead he sat at the table and hunched over the hot brew. “Max, I’m going to say this only once. I am gay. I have no interest whatsoever in you sexually. I like you, I don’t love you. I’ll never love you other than as a friend. I love Brian.” “But last night. You made love to me last night.” She began. “No Max, I fucked you last night. I’m eighteen, apparently my horniness for Brian superseded my good sense when I was drunk and I fucked you, like I would have fucked him if he’d been there.” “Like that would have happened Sunshine.” Brian said and stopped on his way to the coffee pot to kiss Justin on the top of his head. “It could happen.” Justin laughed up at him and pulled him down for a kiss filled with casual passion. Max looked at the easy affection between the two of them and burst into tears. “I’ve been such an idiot.” She sobbed. Justin looked at Brian. Brian shrugged. “Max, I’m sorry.” Justin said softly. “It was a dumb mistake. We’ll just put it behind us.” “I, I, I’ll try” she sobbed. Brian tapped her on the shoulder and passed her a box of tissue. “Th…. Th.. thanks Brian.” She said and blew her nose. And then walked to her bedroom, her steps unsteady, her hand on the wall for balance. Brian and Justin sat at the table drinking their coffee. Neither of them spoke. “Hey what’s with Max?” Dorian asked when he stumbled into the kitchen. “She’s like seriously wailing in her room.” His room was right beside his sisters. “It’s a long story and you don’t want to know.” Justin mumbled into his coffee. It was almost finished but he couldn’t make himself get up and get another one. “Sure, what’s up?” Dorian poured a coffee and refilled Brian and Justin’s cup. Brian smiled his thanks, Justin sank even lower in his seat refusing to talk. “The short version,” Brian began. “Sunshine came home wasted and horny and Max jumped his bones.” “No shit.” Dorian looked at both of them. “That’s like seriously gross. Is she like nuts? I mean like Jus, you didn’t come on to her or anything did you?” Justin glared at him but didn’t answer. “I guess not.” He sighed. “What’s going to happen now? I mean Max is going to make things hell for the two of us.” Dorian sighed. “This is such a great apartment; Mom is going to fucking freak when she finds out. She figured Max would stay out of trouble living with two gay guys.” “Justin is going to stay up at my place until things cool off.” Brian said. “It isn’t finished yet, but the essentials are there.” “I don’t want to live up there.” Justin began. “We’ll be okay.” “Justin, she needs some time to get used to what she did and to get used to the fact that you don’t and never will love her the way she wants.” Brian was reasonable. “I agree Jus, Max needs some time to get over the fact she was such an asshole. I mean like what she did to you was kind of like date rape. Just because you’re a guy, doesn’t mean you can’t say no.” Dorian looked sad. “I’m sorry that my sister was such an asshole Jus.” “Let’s forget it. I mean it’s over, we need to move on.” Justin stood up. “I’m going to have a shower.” “Good, then you and I can get out of here. I have two days free and I intend to spend them with you Sunshine.” Brian pulled Justin down low enough to kiss him. Justin grinned and headed for the bathroom. When the shower turned on Brian looked at Dorian and said. “Dorian, Justin is bothered by what happened more than you or Max can understand. It was a violation that he isn’t able to deal with now. He went through some traumatic times about a year ago. Last night brought some of the memories to the surface.” “I guess maybe Max and I should move back home.” Dorian looked dejected. “Not for now. Justin wouldn’t want your lives disrupted by his problems. If you know him at all, you’d know that.” Brian sighed and finished his cup of coffee. “Just be there for him. I’ll let him live upstairs until he’s ready to join the two of you again. Meanwhile, if you could just talk to your sister and make her understand what she did. I’d appreciate it.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “Feeling better?” Brian asked. He was walking with his arm around Justin down the sidewalk away from their building. “Yeah, I guess.” Justin shivered. “Show me where your classes are held.” Brian steered Justin through the entrance to the University. No one paid them any attention as they walked down the sidewalk. “Okay.” Justin perked up. “Most of them are in that building across the quad.” He began to walk faster. Brian smiled to himself, but his long legs kept him close. “You do know that it’s fucking hot don’t you?” Brian asked. “I know it’s early in the morning, but jogging still isn’t advisable.“ “It’s not that hot.” Justin said. “You know when I first got here I thought I’d never get warm. I mean in the Pitts, I don’t think I was ever warm enough. Damn it was cold there. And here, if I could, I’d lay out in the sun from morning to night like a lizard, sucking up the sunshine. But night time sucks, it’s god damned cold.” “Life’s a bitch alright Sunshine.” Brian agreed. He opened the door of the building they’d arrived at, letting Justin through first. He caught Justin’s smile of pleasure at having the door opened for him. It made him feel warm inside. “My studio is up these stairs. I share it with another student. But she’s pretty cool. She even brings cookies almost every day.” “Geeze Justin, you’re going to have to explain to her that you’re queer.” Brian shook his head. “I think you attract women.” “It could be worse, there could guys after my ass.” “I’m sure there are, you just haven’t noticed yet.” “Actually I have, there’s this one guy who keeps asking me to go for coffee. And my art history teacher keeps giving me the eye but he’s like a hundred.” Brian rolled his eyes heavenward. “Geriatric teachers, how politically correct.” Justin giggled and turned to give Brian a quick kiss, slipping his tongue inside the older man’s mouth, making their knees shake. “You’re a good kisser Professor.” Justin whispered. “You’re a brat Sunshine,” but Brian smiled, his eyes twinkling. “Come on inside.” Justin opened the door. “This is it.” He stood back and let Brian stare at the various canvases that lined the walls. The main subject was Brian in all states of undress. “You seem to be stuck in a rut.” Brian drawled, though he was secretly pleased. “Yeah, but I’m young. I’m sure I’ll dig myself out of this rut eventually.” He stuck his tongue out at Brian and Brian realized just how young Justin was. “You make me feel old.” He admitted out loud(,) letting some of his vulnerability show. “You make me feel happy to be me.” Justin threw his arms around Brian resting his head on Brian’s chest. “It’s a good feeling Brian. I didn’t feel like me for a long time.” “Ditto.” Brian murmured. He couldn’t resist Justin’s soft lips and soon was lost in a kiss. The smell of paints and brush cleaner was acting like an aphrodisiac. He’d never be the same around a studio again. They sank to the floor, hands busy removing clothing. Kisses covered exposed body parts. Justin threw his head back, his body arched against the cold wood floor as Brian moved his lips lower and lower finally letting his warm mouth engulf the dripping head of Justin’s cock. Justin’s gasp of pleasure was echoed by Brian’s purr of contentment as his tongue and mouth worshiped Justin’s erect dick. Burnished gold fuzz smelling of citrus shampoo tickled Brian’s nose with each downward bob of his head. Justin’s fingers tangled in Brian’s hair, ecstasy reflected in the clenching and unclenching of his strong artist’s fingers. Finally Justin erupted, Brian swallowed deeply ending with butterfly kisses up Justin’s belly until he claimed the blond’s swollen lips for his own. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “Brian, there is a Mr. Charles English to see you.” Cynthia smiled at the older gentleman who stood in front of her desk. “I don’t know a Mr. Charles English.” Brian grumbled into his phone. “He says it’s about Justin Taylor Kinney.” Her voice was curious. She’d never heard of a Justin Kinney. “Send him in.” Brian stood up from his desk. He looked calm and in charge, but in reality his stomach churned. Who was this person who knew about Justin. “Mr. English.” Brian held out his hand to shake the hand of the white haired man who stood inside his office. “What can I do for you?” “I understand you’ve undertaken the care of my former client’s grandson Justin, to the point of having him change his name.” the old man began abruptly. “I have helped Justin when he required help. His health dictated that he be relocated. As for his changing his name, well that was Justin’s decision. He approached me about it.” Brian looked hard at the old man. “If you’re so concerned about Justin, where were you when he was living on the street, eating out of garbage cans and becoming ill and malnourished?” “Don’t you use that tone on me young man.” Charles English’s voice was hard. “My client was living in the dark as far as Justin was concerned. His son never once told him Justin was in trouble. My firm has been looking for Justin for a long time. And when I did find out some of the story, I couldn’t find Justin. It’s cost me a lot of money to have him located.” “Apparently your client’s son took offense that Justin is queer.” Brian’s eyes were steely green. “Are you of the same opinion? Because Justin is the man he was meant to be.” “My client, Christopher Taylor, was a long time friend. He died the week before Justin was located. And for your information Christopher knew Justin was more than likely gay. He was waiting for Justin to tell him.” “I’m sorry your friend died. But my only concern is Justin. He’s been through a lot and I don’t need him going through more shit.” Brian ran his fingers through his carefully styled hair. A gesture Justin found endearing, but Brian hated, though he did it more often than he cared to admit. “Justin,” he paused. “Well his father was rough on him before he threw him out. Justin’s head was injured and the head injury was untreated. He’s only recently got back some of the memories of that night. But he clearly remembers the hell he went through in the months that followed. His life is good at the moment. He’s doing well in University and his health is improving.” “I know that. My investigators were thorough.” The old man sat down. “Justin figures prominently in Christopher’s estate. That’s why I’m here. I didn’t want him to receive a letter from my firm, but thought that you would rather tell him that his grandfather has died.” “How prominently is Justin’s part of the estate?” Brian asked bluntly. “Is this going to affect his life?” “I really can’t tell you everything. I know that you and Justin are close and that you’ve arranged to pay for his education if his scholarship can’t be transferred.” He reached into his briefcase and took out an official looking envelope. “If you could give him this, I’d appreciate it. “ he sighed. “No one knows that I’ve located Justin, I didn’t think it was any of their business, not the way the boy was treated. Though when it becomes clear that the bulk of Christopher’s estate goes to Justin and not Craig, I imagine there will be some scrambling done. After all Craig Taylor was only an employee of Taylor Enterprises. Justin now owns the company.” Brian looked startled at the words. “Oh,” was all he could say. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin had been living in Brian’s loft for almost a month. He didn’t mind having the space to himself, though he missed Dorian and Max. Once in awhile he would watch videos with the brother and sister downstairs, or they would all share a pizza, but it wasn’t the same as before. In fact Max was acting more strange every day. It was bugging Dorian too. But he had to live with her so he was faced with her mood swings more often then Justin was. Justin turned on his computer to check his emails before heading to class. From: BKinney@kinnetik.com To: JTKinney@kinnetik.com Subject: phone calls vs. personal chat Sunshine, I have to talk to you about something. It’s about your previous life as Justin Taylor. Would you like me to call later, or can you wait until the weekend when I can fly in and talk to you personally? It’s been a few weeks since I’ve seen your smile. I could fly down.” Brian ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin read the short email over and over, his mind churning. He couldn’t imagine what Brian had to tell him. The one thing he did know was that he trusted Brian with his life. If Brian felt it could wait until the weekend, then that’s what he’d do. He’d rather have Brian with him when he found out. From: JTKinney@kinnetik.com To: BKinney@kinnetik.com Subject: You had to ask if I wanted to see you??? Professor – that was a test right? Of course the answer is yes I want to see you. Next question please. Will it be as easy as this one? BTW – Max is weirding out all the time. One minute she’s the old Max and the next minute she having a cow about something. I’m sure glad I’m gay. Even the worst queen can’t be this bad. Dorian hates going to their apartment. He’s been spending most of his time upstairs. Oh, the contractor finished your bathroom with the Italian marble I picked out. It looks amazing. You didn’t have him put in a tub so I picked one out and he put it in when the floors were being done. It’s big enough for two – you know it’s a great way to conserve water. I bet you never thought of that. Hugs to you Professor Your favorite student – JT Kinney ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ From: BKinney@kinnetik.com To: JTKinney@kinnetik.com Subject: bath tubs You had a bath tub put in??? What part of I don’t want a bathtub didn’t you understand??? Brian PS – my flight gets in at 6pm, I’ll take a cab – have my bath ready. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin laughed out loud when he read the email that arrived back before he’d had a chance to shut his computer down. He’d taken a chance in ordering the bath installed, but he couldn’t resist when he’d seen the tub on line. The brushed nickel of the faucets combined with the black Italian marble was something that Brian would appreciate. Closing the computer down, Justin picked up his book bag and headed for the door. He had a late class and wouldn’t be home for hours. He felt like shouting with excitement. Brian would be there in two days. “Hey hot stuff.” Dorian said with a smile. “Don’t you look like the cat who swallowed a canary.” He fell into step with Justin. “Are you going to tell me what’s got you smiling?” “Brian’s coming in two days.” Justin grinned at his friend. “I can’t believe how horny I am just thinking about it.” “Well, keep it to yourself; I’m having enough problems dealing with Max. Fuck(,) she’s one mixed up girl. I can’t believe we’re related let alone twins.” “I’m really sorry Dorian, I was sure she’d get over it by now.” Justin glanced over his shoulder; sure Max was right behind them. “Me too, Mom’s going to take her to the doctor today and keep her at home until Monday. Maybe she’s just going through a phase of some kind.” “Does you mom know what happened?” Justin asked nervously. “Kind of, I think. I mean she never asked me outright, but she did the ‘mom’ thing and let leading questions drop.” He snorted. “Moms think kids are dumb.” Justin laughed. “I wouldn’t know. My mother didn’t pay much attention to me and when she did, well let’s just say it wasn’t in a good way. More like ‘don’t bother me now’ way.” “That sucks.” Dorian said. He looked at Justin. “We have time for a coffee. Do you want to go to the cafeteria?” they had reached the University grounds. “Sure.” Justin was still on his ‘Brian is coming’ high. “Jus, can I ask you a question?” “I guess.” Justin looked at him warily. They reached the cafeteria and walked inside. “What’s it like having sex?” Dorian asked. “I mean sex with Brian. I sooooo don’t want to know about any other kind.” Justin snickered as he poured himself a coffee and then one for Dorian. “It’s amazing but that’s all I’m going to tell you.” “Come on, I really want to know. Kevin wants to have sex with me and I’m not sure if I’ll end up freaking out like Max.” “Kevin, the guy in our computer class?” Justin grinned. “No shit, he’s hot.” “Yeah, well we’ve gone out a couple of times and we’ve fooled around a bit, but I’ve never had sex. Then when Max went bananas, I didn’t want to take a chance. You seem okay with Brian and you guys have sex.” “Oh, yeah, we have sex alright, mind altering sex.” Justin sipped his coffee while he thought of some of the times Brian and he had been together. “I don’t know Dorian, it depends on the guy. Brian was amazing. He was kind and gentle and he took his time. It hurt a lot at first, but he talked me through it.” “Does it always hurt?” “Brian says that’s a part of it. It’s not like unbearable or anything, and truthfully, you kind of crave it after the first time. Or at least that’s the way with me.” Justin shrugged. “I’m not so sure it would have been as good if my first time had been with someone else just as inexperienced. You know, I have a great book. It’s the Joy of Gay Sex and it tells you lots of stuff.” “Cool. Is it at the apartment?” “Actually it’s in my old room. You can borrow it.” “Did you do the stuff that’s in it?” Dorian was curious. “Some of it.” Justin grinned. “It’s a big book.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Brian spent the day working while his own investigators checked out his visitor’s story. He’d opened the envelope for Justin and read over the copy of the will, though he hadn’t opened the smaller envelope that had been addressed to Justin in a shaky hand. It was a private letter, apparently from his grandfather. He was about to call it a day when a commotion outside his office caught his attention. His door burst open and a strange man stood in his office along with a flushed and very pissed Cynthia. “Brian this person…. “ she began all but spitting the words. “Craig Taylor, I told you my name is Craig Taylor.” The man said arrogantly. “I would have expected that your secretary would remember my name for two minutes.” Brian stood up. “First of all Cynthia is my assistant not my secretary. And secondly you are the intruder, why the fuck should she bother to remember the name of some kind of pond scum?” Brian knew damn well who was now standing in his office and he didn’t like it one bit. “Where is my son?” the man demanded. “I have no idea who you are talking about and even if I did, the chances of me telling you are slim to unfuckinglikely.” Brian glared at the man. He used all of the restraint he’d learned since he’d left home not to punch the arrogant asshole in the face. “I know you have my son. I read the reports that my father had done.” “Then you also know that I’m not going to tell you one damn thing, Justin is where he wants to be and that’s far away from you.” Brian knew the man was bluffing. He probably had some of the information that the investigator provided, but if he’d had it all, he wouldn’t be standing in Brian’s office right now. “You have no right to keep my son from me.” “Your sudden interest in Justin wouldn’t have anything to do with the fact that he now owns not only the company you work for, but every other piece of real estate and bank account that your father held?” Brian laughed. “Sucks to be you Craig baby.” “I’m going to appeal his will, you must have influenced my father in some way.” The other man shouted. “Well, asshole, since the will that I read was dated three years ago and I didn’t know your son at that time, good luck to you.” Brian laughed. “Now get the fuck out of my office.” He looked at the door. Standing outside of it were two of Brian’s rather large friends that he used for security occasionally. Cynthia must have called them over from the gym across the street. He nodded his hello, giving them permission to enter. “Thanks boys, could you take the trash out please. It’s stinking up my office.” Craig Taylor turned and stared hesitantly at the two men who stood in the doorway, their muscles pumped and rippling from their interrupted work out. “Sure thing Brian.” The larger of the two said. Both of them walked in and picked Craig up by either arm. They carried him outside to the street, both of the deaf to the screams of furious threats that were spewing from his mouth. “If I were you sweet pea, I wouldn’t come back.” The other man said. They stood and watched as Craig Taylor got in his car and drove away, before heading back to the gym. “Brian, what was that all about?” Cynthia asked. She was still shaken up by the confrontation. “Come in and sit down, I’ll give you the short version. I’m sorry you had to go through this Cynthia. If you see that asshole again, call the boys immediately.” “Yes boss, it’ll be my pleasure.” She grinned. Seeing Craig Taylor thrown out had been satisfying. “He’s the father of a very special friend of mine. He was abusive to Justin and Justin is living away from here for the moment.” “He’s the young man in Phoenix.” She said more to herself than to Brian. Things were falling into place. “Yes he is.” Brian flushed, talking about Justin, or even thinking about him, did that to him. “It seems his grandfather died recently and left everything to Justin with the exception of a few small bequests. Like the dollar he left to old Craig there. Craig is taking exception to this fact. Tough shit to him. I expect the old guy has all of that covered. He obviously knew his son well.” “Thanks for telling me. I suppose this isn’t common knowledge.” “If you mean do I want you to keep this to yourself, yes I do. I don’t want the gang interfering in Justin’s life until he’s a little less fragile emotionally.” “Or in your life with Justin.” Cynthia was perceptive. “Or in my life with Justin.” Brian agreed with a grin. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Justin was excited about Brian’s arrival. He’d done his best to organize the still under construction loft. The bedroom and bathroom were complete and the kitchen was close to completion. All that was needed was more furniture. Justin had been hoping that the things Brian had ordered would have arrived by now, but they wouldn’t be at the loft until tomorrow. He checked the time once again, and called the airline. Brian’s plane had arrived. Smiling to himself, Justin filled the large tub added scented bath salts. He lit dozens of candles, pleased with their shimmery brilliance as they reflected off of the black marble shot with streaks of gold and silver. The final step was undressing and putting on one of the two robes he’d bought. He was ready for Brian’s arrival. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ “Hey Brian, I didn’t know you were coming this weekend.” Max met Brian at the front entrance of the building. “Hey Max. It was a sudden decision, I only found out a couple of days ago.” Brian held the door for her. “Justin didn’t say anything.” She shook her head. “But I guess he wouldn’t. I’ve got to go, mom’s waiting. I just came home to get my books.” She rushed inside, scrambling for her key to open the door. Brian stared after her. He looked at the street and it was then he noticed the woman parked in the car. It was Max’s mother. She waved at him and Brian nodded his head back, acknowledging the wave. Brian was thoughtful as he took the elevator up to the top floor. “Hey Sunshine.” He called as he came through the door. “I’m home.” Justin stood by the bedroom door. “Come on in Professor, your bath is ready.” He grinned. “And drinks are served.” “Ahh, you’re the bath boy are you?” Brian smiled. “I hope you put out.” “You’re very forward Professor.” Justin teased. “I’m not the bath boy, I’m the boy in your bath. There’s a difference.” “Yes I suppose there is.” Brian had reached the bedroom. He folded Justin in his strong arms holding him tight for a few moments, savoring the feel of (THE)his blond in his arms, before bending down and claiming his lips. “I’m feel like I’m at home when I hold you.” These words were a big admission for Brian, who held his true feelings close. Justin smiled into his hazel eyes and said. “You are home when you hold me. I’m home when you hold me.” He put his head on Brian’s chest. If he’d been a cat he’d have been purring. Then a quick squeeze and he began to remove Brian’s clothing, carefully folding each item until Brian stood before him naked. “Your bath is ready.” “You know, I’ve never really wanted a bath tub.” Brian said as he let himself be led into the black marble bathroom. His eyes appraised the large room. “I’ll be afraid to pee in here.” Justin laughed. “Yeah, it’s kind of weird at first, but you get used to it. It’s like peeing in a fancy drawing room, or a hotel lobby. That’s why I figured adding this tub, would help fill the place up. Believe me Professor; you’ll get your dollar’s worth out of it.” Justin slipped off his robe and stepped into the warm scented water. He let his hand travel the length of his body, cupping his balls and then slowly gliding up and down his full cock that bobbed up in the water. “Fuck Justin.” Brian breathed as he got into the tub. Justin moved and Brian sat between the other man’s legs. He reached for the wine that was sitting on a silver tray on the tiled edge of the tub. He poured the two of them a glass of wine. He turned and offered a silent toast to Justin. They clinked glasses and then each sipped the cool dry liquid. “Now why didn’t I have a tub put into my bathrooms before this?” Brian wondered out loud. “Because you needed a friend to bath with.” Justin lay his head on Brian’s back and then turned it to place soft kisses on his hard back. With his free hand, Justin picked up a sponge and dribbled warm water over Brian’s shoulder. “Do you like the smell of the bath salts?” he asked. “It’s a lavender mix. It’s supposed to help you relax.” “It’s hard to relax with your hard dick pressed against my back.” “Why, are you nervous it might, say slip into a warm dark place?” Justin giggled. “No, because I wouldn’t let it.” Brian turned his head and kissed Justin’s lips. “Nice try Sunshine.” “So are you going to tell me what brought you here?” Justin asked. “Your grandfather Charles Taylor died.” Brian said bluntly. He didn’t know how close Justin had been to his grandfather, but there was no way of hiding the truth in light of Craig Taylor’s animosity. “Geeze, that sucks. I always liked him. I hadn’t seen him in a couple of years. For some reason my father kept us apart. Grandpa Taylor traveled a lot, so it was easy to make sure I wasn’t around when he visited the Pitts. Do you know when he died? Was it long ago?” “I don’t know for sure. But I don’t think it was that long ago. There’s something else, his will.” “Oh, did he leave me something?” Justin asked. “I wonder if he left me his watch, he always said he would, but you know, old guys forget things.” “He left you pretty much every damn thing he owned.” Brian stated baldly. “No shit. My dad must be livid.” Justin chuckled. “Tough shit to you daddy dearest.” He laughed out loud. “I can’t believe it. Of course, I don’t have a clue what to do with it all. I suppose I’ll have to let my father continue to run things.” “Not necessarily, unless you want to. I’ve made an appointment for you tomorrow at the lawyers. Your grandfather’s lawyer has sent the estate paper work there. You’ll need to sign a bunch of stuff.” “Brian, I really don’t want to go back to the Pitts until this year is completed. I’m finally feeling a lot better. You were right about the weather.” He sighed. “I don’t suppose….. his voice trailed off. “You don’t suppose what?” Brian asked. “What if I signed over a power of attorney to you. Power of Attorney over all of my holdings. You must know an accountant that you trust to go over things at Taylor Enterprises. You could keep an eye on things for me. I mean I’ll add some business courses, what ever you recommend, but I’m an artist and I really have no intention of giving up on that dream to run this business.” “Justin, I have my own business to run.” Brian began. “You said that we were in a sort of relationship. Well if we’re partners, can’t you handle this while your much younger partner goes to school?” “Yes I can handle it. I majored in advertising, but I minored in business administration.” Brian thought for a moment. “Justin, you’re entrusting me with millions of dollars. Not to mention a business that’s five times or more larger than Kinnetik.” “So.” Justin said. “You’re the most trustworthy man I know. You’re also the most honest man I know.” He nuzzled Brian’s back; he couldn’t easily reach his neck. “Besides, anything I have is yours anyway, that’s part of being partners.” “Justin, we aren’t ready for a commitment that ties us down and you know it. We’ve talked about this.” “Do you see any ball and chain?” Justin asked. “Because other than my bracelet, that you gave me quite willingly I might add, there are no locks on our doors.” “Let me think about it. I’ll give you my answer tomorrow.” Brian said. “Oh and your father came to see me at Kinnetik. Apparently he managed to figure out that I know you. Who knows for sure how? To say he was pissed is an understatement. Not that we know each other, but that your grandfather left you everything.” “That figures.” Justin finished his glass of wine. “what time do we see the lawyer tomorrow?” he asked. “One o’clock.” “Good we can sleep in. I plan on spending the night making mad passionate love to you.” “You can’t.” Brian poured them another glass of wine. “Why not?” “Because you’ll be otherwise occupied with me making love to you.” “Professor you have a way with words that is positively poetic.” ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Later they were lying in Brian’s bed, Justin’s head on Brian’s chest listening to the older man’s heartbeat. “Brian.” Justin asked softly. “Are you asleep?” “Yes.” Brian was too mellow to talk at the moment. He could almost hear the wheels in Justin’s brain whirring. “If you and I got married, or what ever two fags do to combine their assets. Then you would have more of a legitimate reason for looking after my business stuff.” Brian was silent as he absorbed this latest brain wave of Justin’s. “Justin, I…. “he thought of how to word his answer. “I agree that yes, if you were my husband or whatever it is in Pennsylvania, that it would legitimize my standing regarding your affairs. But oddly enough, I would prefer that if I was going to be married that there be love involved.” “Of course, I completely agree. And I love you, so that’s my half of the equation. I know you love me too. That’s your half of the equation.” Brian sighed. “What you feel at eighteen and what you’ll feel five years from now, will be too different things. I’m not going to hold you back. I’ve told you this before.” “Okay, what if we sign a prenup that gives us back what we came into the partnership with at the end of five years. And we divide up everything that we made from the time of our partnership equally at the end of the five years. But only if we want to. It isn’t a requirement. It’s just a safety net.” “When have you had time to think of this?” Brian asked. “I thought the two of us were rather busy for the last few hours.” “We were, but we aren’t now. I’m kind of thinking out loud.” The phone rang. Brian looked at Justin. “Who has this number?” “Only Max and Dorian.” Justin said. “Everyone else has my cell number.” “Well answer it then. I suppose it must be important.” Brian handed Justin the phone. “JUSTING TAYLOR, GET YOUR ASS HOME. THIS IS YOUR FATHER SPEAKING. YOU HAVE NO BUSINESS ANSWERING THE PHONE IN THAT MAN’S HOUSE.” Justin hung up the phone and then reached over and unplugged it. “Apparently my father managed to track me down.” He said dryly. “I heard.” Brian’s hand rubbed up and down Justin’s arm. “Why don’t we have the lawyer earn his fifty cents tomorrow partner? I think I’m going to like visiting the offices of Taylor Enterprises next week.” “My hero.” Justin reached up and kissed Brian’s chin. “I really do love you Brian.” “I know Sunshine.” Brian sighed and continued to rub Justin’s arm while he thought about what tomorrow was going to bring and what he was going to have to do during the next week. “You know something. It was kind of weird. When I heard my dad’s voice, he didn’t scare me anymore. It was as if he was a voice in a movie. Someone that had nothing to do with me. I didn’t feel upset, or sad or mad or anything when I heard him. It was like all my feelings toward him were dead. Dead and gone and buried and slowly sinking into the back of my mind.” “I know exactly what you mean Sunshine.” Brian tilted Justin’s chin up and kissed him softly. “I know exactly what you mean.”