CHAPTER 67: SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT Part 4: INTERVIEWS/ THE FINE ART OF DIGGING DITCHES

JINKS:

Along with Cynthia, and the little stick of dynamite named Daphne- Christ Almighty, I love that girl!- we begin to manage how we want the set up for the interviews to go. Since we all agreed that we want Brian and Justin to be as comfortable as possible as they practically bleed their lives out in our collective quest for them to become the new faces of ‘America’s Sweethearts’, we’ve decided that this first round of interviews need to be conducted outside on the back patio, by the pool. And as the cherry blossoms surrounding the area blow gently in the breeze, I know that we’ve made the right decision.  

As a precaution, Justin takes another dose of his allergy medication as Brian fusses around him, making sure that their clothing, no matter how casual, is still impeccable. The deep blue cashmere sweater Justin is wearing is of the same style as the emerald green one Brian is wearing. Both colors set off not only their wonderful coloring, but make their eyes glow, which is the effect we wanted. Each of them have on black slacks and their Gucci loafers to lend that air of young up and coming professionals to their appearance. Since it’s their first official public appearance since the prom picture someone had unearthed during the Hobbs’ trial, we wanted people to no longer see a ‘morally questionable’ relationship, but an emotionally solid one. Cyn, Daph, and I think it will go a long way in not only publicity for them, but instill that no matter what a situation may look like, anything’s possible if you work hard and don’t lose your focus. Hell, they even have me- the eternal cynic- believing in my own dreams again just being around them, so we must be on the right track.

“We set the camera crew on either end of pool, so that Brian and Justin can forget about them The only one that will behind them is the one which focuses on the reporters,” Cyn tells me, which I think is an ideal location. It will allow for close-ups when needed without all the running back and forth crews usually do during a shoot like this. “The only question left is how we want to set everyone up since we want this to remain as informal as possible. I just can’t see how that can really happen without a bunch of useless chairs being placed willy-nilly everywhere.”

“Hmm, is there a furniture store near here?” I ask her, because I can understand what she means. We want this to resemble an upscale garden party, as opposed to the quintessential family barbeque.

“I don’t know, but let me ask Jennifer. She does a lot of business in this area, so she would know.”

She calls the elegant woman over, and once again, I’m struck by how much Justin resembles her in a masculine way. It’s in their posture- ramrod straight, and at the same time relaxed; their surety of movement, seemingly unhurried even when everything is moving fast around them, and their natural of competence and confidence, which makes people automatically trust them, even when their natural inclination is to regard everything and everyone with suspicion. It’s not difficult to see just why Brian fought so hard against, then ultimately lost his is heart, to Justin Taylor-Kinney. He inherited everything that makes him pure and light from the woman before us.

“What can I do for you, ladies?” she asks, smiling at us with her warm brown eyes glowing, happily.

“You look like you’re on the verge of chuckling, Jenn. What’s going on?” Cyn asks her, looking in the direction of Brian and Justin.

“The usual, I suppose. It’s just fun watching Brian take on the role of Mother Hen while giving me a break from doing so. He’s fussing, and Justin is trying to maintain his composure. I think he’s being assailed by the want to kill Brian, or the need to kiss him;  not quite knowing which emotion wants to win at this moment. It’s entertaining to watch.”

Cynthia laughs. “Well he knows that Brian is a perfectionist in all facets. If anyone could handle all of Brian’s idiosyncrises it’s Justin, since he hasn’t caused bodily harm to him over the past three years. To Brian, everything is about presentation, and although he trusts us as those who have worked with him for so long, the control freak within him won’t rest until this interview is in the bag. It’s what makes him the best at what he does.”

“And now he has half of the Dynamic Duo along for the ride…” I point out.

Jennifer smiles. “Yes, Justin and Daphne, or as Brian and Cyn call them, the Minis are just as bad as Brian is at this moment. But it does work both ways since I’m sure that Justin has had his own queen-outs, only not in a place where everyone can see it. They seem to know when to just let the other freak, and then be there to calm them when they begin to spiral out of control.”

We watch them for a few more moments, when Justin has obviously had enough, and grabs Brian by the back of his neck. He brings their mouths together, even while Brian is still attempting to talk, until, as if by magic, Brian’s lips seems to register Justin’s on his and begins responding in kind. By the time Justin releases Brian from the kiss, the older man has a relaxed and euphoric expression on his face- almost as if still trapped in a dreamlike state- while Daphne, who is standing near the couple, smiles and mouths ‘THANK YOU’ to Justin. He just winks and smiles back before calmly asking her to fulfill the latest order Brian requested. They really are an amazing couple.

Turning back to Jennifer, I ask, “Jenn, are there any furniture stores around here? We want to make this area look less like a family gathering, and more like an upscale garden party. The mismosh of single chairs is going to look a bit disorganized on camera.”

She nods her head. “I see what you mean. I should have thought about it sooner, but I have a warehouse near here.”

“A warehouse?”

“Yes. I don’t know if anyone mentioned it but I’m in the real estate business. In this particular area, potential buyers always like to see homes and properties fully decorated, to give them an idea of the potential in owning such an expensive place. Let me call them, and tell them what will work. I’m thinking all white seating, including a large sectional which seats at least eight of us, then five recliners in the same material and color. We’ll add a touch of turquoise with the coffee and end tables to play off the pool, and also to combine the look of Brian and Justin’s clothing. Since the backyard is full of trees, with the sunlight directly focused on the pool area, the pergola should be enough of a covering so that those of us with sensitive skin won’t have to worry about sunburn.”

I can see exactly where Jennifer is going with the color scheme, and I have to say, it’s genius! “In that case, Cynthia, have them change their trousers. If they have off white, or another neutral color of some kind that would be great. Against the white, the black slacks will look just that touch too severe, which is what we don’t want.”

And with that, we all set off in our individual directions to propel the Taylor-Kinney machine forward, full speed ahead.

GEORGE:

While everyone is working on set-up, I’m having a meeting with my team, alongside Jane and Jessica with the individual teams. Since this is a joint effort, and something that as far as we know has never been done, we have to set some kind of order so that all of us have the material to complete our individual assignments.

“Jane and I were talking on the way here, George. We think that since all of us work in different genres of reporting the news, we should stick with those, even though we’ll reference the other’s articles or tv spots.”

“Okay,” I drag out, not really seeing a way to separate the stories, but willing to hear their suggestion thought out.

Jessica chuckles. “I can see you’re not quite sure what she means just yet, so let me explain it. You concentrate on the human interest, meaning the romance in making the Taylor-Kinneys; Jane will concentrate on the business aspect since that’s what the NYT mainly is, and Kinnetik’s hostile takeover of Vanguard is big news. Did you know that they are forming a conglomerate? After this, companies will be trying to join it left and right! As for me, I’ll handle the political aspect since it’s Time magazine’s main source of readership. I know you both know it, but I remember the legacy of the Stockwells, from the father to sons. Their history is long and varied within this city, and their reach was long. So you see? All of us have a piece to report on the ever-growing Taylor-Kinney legacy.”

“It could work,” I say slowly when she finally takes a breath. I suppose that’s why she chose to WRITE the news, instead of speaking about it. When Jessica gets on a roll, she talks incredibly fast, where you find yourself having to piece together her speeches through catching the first syllable. It makes me wonder how she’s going to pace herself when it comes to asking her questions. I shake my head to clear it of such thoughts. “I just don’t want this piece to be all fluff and nonsense. My part will be finished before I even start.”

Jane shakes her head. “Have you even bothered to really research the couple you are interviewing at all?”

“I haven’t had much time, having only received this assignment a few hours ago. The only info I have to go on is what my idiot cousin kept spouting off about thus far and his obviously-biased research. Everything else has been a matter of recent public records.”

“Well then, you need a MAJOR CRASH COURSE in the men you are interviewing and their families. I can assure you George, they are the most un-boring couple from beginning to end. In fact, the fall of Stockwell, a Judge who was slated for Federal tenure, and the destruction of one of the most influential families in the United States can all be laid at the door of those two men,” Jessica tells me.

By the time they have finished giving me skinny on the Taylor-Kinneys, I have to say that I am shocked, appalled, and outraged on their behalf! But most of all, I am elated that they are at last on their road to what we all want… a happily ever after. And at this moment, I’m also gratified that they didn’t throw me out on my ass after I showed up here with Howard. My mother has been ringing my cell phone so much since he got ousted off the property that I just decided to shut it off. Of course, I’ll have to deal with it later. But for now, I want to concentrate on the most interesting men I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. I have the feeling that every person in my career going forward is going to pale in comparison the charismatic pair of Brian and Justin.

JUSTIN:

Somehow, I don’t think Cynthia intended that sending Brian and I to change our pants would result in me being pinned to the wall, coming down from one of the most euphoric highs of an almost brutal fast and furious fuck. But fuck if I’m going to apologize for it. Everyone should know what happens when Brian and I are left without supervision… and clothes. I know one thing though. I feel thoroughly relaxed; so relaxed that if I put my head right here in the crook of his neck, I can just fall asleep.

“Oh no you don’t, Sunshine,” Brian chuckles.

“What?” I sleepily ask, causing him to laugh harder.

“No, you can’t fall asleep right now. I promise you can later, with my dick inside you, just how you always want it.”

I yawn, as he pulls out gently. I always miss him when he’s gone. It’s like he keeps a piece of me with him even as he discards the evidence of what we’ve just done. So far, monogamy is working out for us better than I ever imagined. I feel more… free, I think is the right word. I can be as wild and aggressive, or as slow and sensual as I need, and Brian takes all I have to give and in turn does the same for me. It’s been heaven not to think that I’m replaceable, which was always something I would feel when Brian would leave me to go off with a trick in the past. It didn’t help that I had Michael in my ears and head, drilling that very thought into my psyche every chance he got.

Michael… the very bane of my existence, and the sole reason for many of mine and Brian’s problems the first year we knew each other. I know that we’re going to have to talk about him, especially if we’re going to tell the absolute truth of our ups and downs, but I’m worried about doing so. I know that I should probably come clean with Brian about everything else I found out about Michael before we go out there and expose just who the Taylor-Kinneys are to the world. But I don’t want to, especially since I don’t exactly know what the syringes I found were for. I mean, he could have been hiding them from Ben during his roid rage Mary days, but somehow in my mind, that excuse doesn’t ring true. But if not for that, what were the syringes and vials for? And let me tell you, I don’t get an easy feeling that I want to know the answer.

“What’s on your mind, Sunshine?” Brian asks me, coming up behind me. He’s already donned those off white slacks that I absolutely love. They drape over his long legs while hugging his ass and groin enough to remind me just what he’s got waiting for me when we’re next alone.

“Nothing overly important,” I evade.

“Then why are you stalling getting dressed?” He smirks. And I just want to toss him on the bed, kissing it away by replacing it with one of his deep moans. What I am thinking must show on my face because his eyes spark lustfully as he asks me, “See something you like?”

“Keep looking at me like that, and I swear I’ll show you,” I respond in kind, biting my lower lip in that way he loves. It speaks of every bad thing I want to do to him… more than once- fuck, hundreds of times!

Just as I’m about to make good on the salacious thoughts I’m ready to act upon, the dreaded knock comes on the door. “If you two aren’t out here in twenty seconds, I’m going to funnel the hose through your open bedroom window. And trust me, this time the yells, shouts, and screams we’ll hear will be FAR from pleasurable!” Daphne threatens. “Now come on! We’ve got a schedule to keep!”

“Bossy little Miss, isn’t she?” Brian mutters.

“I heard that!” she says from the other side of the door.

“We’re coming, Daphne,” I yell back.

“You’ve already done that! Now how about coming OUTSIDE of the room?!”

“If I didn’t love her so much, I’d fire her,” I mumble.

“I heard that!” she says, now outside of the bedroom window. And just how the hell did she get out there so fast?! “Now Brian, you are to come out of the bedroom so that Justin can put his pants on. Don’t make me come back in there to get you. Or perhaps you want me to get Cynthia instead? NOW MOVE IT! We have a schedule to keep people!”

“I pity the man who turns her head,” Brian whispers.

“I heard that!” she responds.

“Someday, I will figure out how she does that,” I say to Brian, who can barely contain his laughter. At least, Daph has managed to ease the sudden tension assailing both of us. “I guess you’d better go so I can finish getting dressed.”

“Guess so. Plus we have a photo shoot, although I know they will be taking candid shots of us throughout this whole thing.”

“I know that this afternoon is going to be hard for you…”

“I’m more worried about what it’s going to do to you. I mean, you’ll have to talk about Craig and the speculation of what he tried to do to you."

“I know, but you are going to have to talk about what life was like all the way back from when you were no more than Jack’s son. They are going to want to know what makes you the man you have become.”

“I know, Sunshine.” He hugs me close, letting me absorb his smell to calm me. “But to throw your words back at you, I’m not afraid, as long as I have you to protect me.”

Brian gives me one last kiss, and leaves the room as I feel one lone tear slip from the corner of my eye down my cheek. “Me too, Brian. Me too,” I whisper into the empty room as I pull on my pants.

BRIAN:

I hated to leave him, but I know that Daphne is right. We have a schedule to keep, so I go back to doing what I do best… micromanaging. I’m on the phone with Leo Brown, who called to inform both Justin and me that he will be watching tonight and to wish us well. It still amazes me that the same powerful people I used to look at as if they were gods among men, are now the same people who are backing us as if we’ve known them all our lives. It puts the way Deb treated me- as if my entire existence was to make Michael happy- in a whole new perspective once again.

I know that Justin is right about having to speak about our early lives. I know that, but it doesn’t make me feel any more comfortable about doing so. The fact is that Deb and Michael, along with Vic, were a huge part of the man I’ve grown to be. It’s just that while Vic was more than willing to let me go and grow to be this version of Brian Kinney, Deb and Michael tried to stifle me; to choke the life out of me, like any weed does to a flower. I suppose I understand to some degree, since as it is I’m leaving them behind. But the funny thing is that whereas I might have done so to Michael, I never would have deserted Deb… except I had to when she made me choose between me and her. I honestly can’t say how anyone will view that since the lengths people will go for self-preservation depends on individual circumstances. All I know is that for me, it came down to what I NEED in my life, and a life full of debts that never seem able to be repaid can’t be included in it.

Justin comes out of the bedroom, and walks over to me. I can tell he had a moment of teariness, but whether it was happy or sad, I’m not sure. But when he comes to rest in my arms, sunshine smile on his lips, I decide that whatever it was has passed and all that matters is this… US. I smile back and bend my head, looking into those oh-so-blue eyes, waiting for him to close the distance between us. And as his lips softly touch mine, everything in my world rights itself at that moment. The flash causes us to break apart slowly, but the lingering effect of the kiss is no less potent. The magnetism which draws me and Justin together still lays heavy in the air, as we move further away from our own little bubble the kiss created. Latching onto my pinky with his own, Justin leads me out to the patio.

I step outside expecting chaos, which would have me ready to bite heads off because of a mountain of wires, or some other such invasive bullshit that can be found on soundstages, and sets all over the land. Instead we have the most peaceful atmosphere. It’s not only quiet, but well-organized, soothing what Justin jokingly calls my inner-OCD neatfreak. I have to say that I must employ, or in Mother Taylor’s case, am related to, an army of angels and miracle workers. In the short time that Justin and I were in the bedroom, these wonderful women have managed to turn the backyard, which was barely passable by my high standards, into an oasis worthy of the million dollar home. I will have to ask just where the hell they were able to find a sectional that reminds me of the seating in an amphitheater. It’s large enough to seat eighteen people with room to spare and in white, too; the fucking thing is just gorgeous! Everything about this space now screams understated class and elegance. It looks as if we were born to live this way.

Jinx, Thorne’s Cynthia, is directing all of the family into their ‘assigned’ seats, leaving room for both of us, and Melanie with Gus in the center of the sectional. Daphne and Cyn will be flanking us, while on the other sides of them will be both of our mothers. I debated having Joan here, but Justin and I talked about it and decided that having her included was the right thing to do for a number of reasons. The first is that she’s trying to better her relationship with both of us, the second is that Jennifer and Joan are tighter than ten toes in a sock lately, and the third is that Claire will be unbelievably aggrieved, while Deb will have to rethink her stance on prejudging Joan when she’s far from perfect herself. Cruel? Maybe. Spiteful? Also a maybe, but if it brings about a change whether we accept Deb back into our lives or not, it will definitely be worth the effort. On the other side of Joan and Jennifer will be Ted, Dale, Janean, Vic, and Emmett. Although Em and Vic don’t know it, we have plans to plug their catering business as our gift to them. In our minds, they deserve to be recognized far more than we do since Vic basically told death to fuck off, while Emmett told his bigoted family and background the same. The seating of Ben, Hunter, Glenda, James, Ronald, and Nancy complete Jinx’s micromanaging, and as the group photo is snapped I realize that I no longer have to wonder about not having true friends and family, because this is it. At least for now…

The three reporters settle themselves into the white recliners to the nearest side of us, while the pool glistens in the background. Even though they are not directly in front of us, we are still able to converse with them without straining our necks to do so. My guess is that the crew would be well-versed in how to make the transitions in camera shots seamless since it’s a live broadcast. Some of these guys look like they’ve been doing this type of work longer than I’ve been alive. It only enhances my confidence that we are doing the right thing.

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen as WELCOME to Xpose with 20/20. I’m your host George Bell, and tonight we’re here with Brian and Justin Taylor-Kinney in the first of a three part series,” George speaks. “Also with me are my good friends and press colleagues Jane Markell, of the New York Times, and Jessica Lynn Mayer of Time Magazine. We’ve decided to do these interviews jointly for several reason, not the least being the heavy schedule of Taylor-Kinneys. Not only are they running a multi-million dollar corporation and forming a conglomerate, but these men, and possibly some of their family members will be called as witnesses in some very high-profile court cases going forward. Thank you all for welcoming us into your home and your lives, Gentlemen."

I simply nod my head, as Justin smiles brightly. He knows just how disarming that action can be to the casual viewer. However, I know that Justin is all prepared to turn on the lethal charm he keeps in his arsenal to unleash at the most crucial moments. If I haven’t said it before, I’ll say it again… Justin Taylor-Kinney is nothing if not a BRILLIANT strategist!

“So I think the question that is first and foremost in everyone’s mind is how you two met. There’s no secret that there’s quite a bit of age difference between you, but there must have also been a wealth of knowledge and experiences as well. So Brian, can you tell us what was so captivating about Justin that made you look twice?”

“Other than the superficial, which if you look at Justin, there isn’t a doubt that he’s gorgeous, it was that he didn’t look at me as an idol as so many tend to within our community.”

George asks me for an elaboration. “Is this in reference to the moniker you had been giving some years ago on a popular street within the gay district of Pittsburgh?”

I laugh. “You’re very tactful, Mr. Bell, but I have nothing to be ashamed of. To answer your question, I was often referred to as the Stud of Liberty Avenue. Although to some that could lead people to correctly believe that I was sort of a slut, in other circles it could also be looked at as I was doing what millions of single men do until they find their hearts desire. I was looking for love in all the wrong places…”

“But, he found it under a streetlamp,” Justin chuckles, causing the rest of us to do the same.

“I take it by that statement you are speaking of yourself? Was it love at first sight?” George asks.

“Heck no! Now if you ask if it was lust at first sight that would be a HELL YEAH! Brian was gorgeous then, and has only improved like a fine wine with time. I know how lucky I am that he chooses me everyday.”

“No more than I am, Sunshine,” I respond, as he leans his head into my cheek. We don’t leave any doubt as to the sincerity of either of our words.

Clearing his throat briefly- from emotion, I suppose- George asks, “What were you doing there, Justin? If I’m not mistaken, you were still in high school.”

Justin chuckles. “Indeed I was, but well, I was intent in my quest to experience gay life. I enlisted the help of my best friend to get me where I knew I could do that. Not saying it was right; only that I felt that I had to do it for some reason. The irony is that I had stopped under that streetlamp with every intention of calling Daphne to tell her my night was a bust and to ask her to come get me. Had I made that phone call as I was walking up the street instead of waiting, I wouldn’t have met Brian.”

“So he was your first love?”

“And my first lover. Sure, Brian and I had an open-relationship until recently, but no one ever had my heart. That always has and always will belong to Brian.”

“When did you really know that you lost your heart to him?”

“I would like to think it started later when we went to see our son, Gus, who was born the same night. A former friend of Brian’s and Mel’s ex-partner was the baby’s biological mother. When Brian held Gus for the first time… well, it made all the times that I would be told afterwards that Brian wasn’t capable of love a complete lie since it was shining through every cell in his body that night as he held Gus.”

“You mentioned an open-relationship between you and Brian. How did that translate into Brian being capable of romantic love?”

“Considering it was his ex-best friend along with that man’s mother who tried to drill that particular thought into my head, one would think that it was true. However, it was just something which made it easier for the former friends- including Gus’ bio mom, who employed the same mantra- to believe that Brian just wasn’t capable of loving anyone if they themselves weren’t the sole object of his affection. There were certainly times when I questioned if they weren’t at least a little correct, but then I would remember how Brian looked holding Gus the night he was born, and I would dismiss the notion. In retrospect, even the fact that Brian and I had an open-relationship was loving of Brian.”

“I’m confused, but how?”

“Having our relationship- for that’s what it was even then, regardless of who likes it or can’t admit it- open allowed me to see what was out there without having to worry about the stress of ‘cheating’ on my partner. A lot of people get the idea of love and lust confused. Brian and I didn’t let the tricks mean more than a moment of instant gratification, but Brian and I had intimacy. We actually talked, and got to know each other beyond the superficial. We were more than just one of the many, which is what no one seemed to get, even if Brian denied we were a couple for a long time. He's seen me through some of the darkest times in my life, and I would like to think that I've done the same for him at some point."

"You have, Sunshine. It's why regardless of the ups and downs, we're here." He smiles at me, and I know that he's received the message loud and clear; that through it all, or because of it, Justin and I will always be solid.

"Our way of life was not for everybody, and we don’t expect everyone to understand it, George. But it was honest in a way many other relationships don't have the capacity to be. I didn’t have to feel like I was missing out on anything because I was in a relationship with someone who didn’t understand what I needed to be sexually satisfied, or someone who didn’t appreciate the fact that by nature, I’m quite the hedonist. I wasn’t, and still am not involved with someone who makes me feel ashamed to be myself regardless of anyone else’s thoughts, feelings, and opinions.”

“But weren’t you involved with someone else prior to the Stockwell incident?”

“I was for a very brief time,” Justin answers quietly at first, but then continues stronger. “A lot of things led up to that particular lapse in judgment; the first being a violent assault at my senior prom.”

George nods. “For those who either don’t know or don’t remember, Justin was the victim of a brutal attack on the night of June 12th 2001. It is being alleged that the case was mishandled in all facets, including the verdict of the assailant receiving only 500 hours of community service. How does it make you feel to know that the case is going to be charged and tried correctly due to the misconduct of various officials?”

“Although I can’t speak on the legalities of the case itself, from an emotional standpoint, I think Brian and I are relieved. It will go a long way in restoring our faith in the justice system as a whole. I can honestly say that had Brian not been there, I would have died.”

“What do you mean?”

I take a deep breath, because God knows I don’t want to relive those moments for anyone or anything. But I also realize that a large number of the problems between Justin and I had to do with not so much our unwillingness to speak about it, but the inability to deal with the aftermath of such a conversation. The nightmares we suffered were enough to make a person want to drown themselves in booze to forget, or take a handful of sleeping pills to never wake up again. It was a traumatic time on so many levels that actually talking about it felt like the most irresponsible and hurtful thing we could do to each other.

Thankfully Mother Taylor keeps me and Justin from having to answer. “From what I was told, although head injuries always bleed the worst, where Justin was hit could have had much worse results, including death. Brian was there in the garage, having danced only one dance with Justin at his prom just to make my son happy. By the time the ambulance got there, Justin was having a heart attack, and stopped breathing. If for Brian not being able to perform CPR, Justin would have expired right there on the scene. Sudden cardiac arrests can happen to anyone, regardless of if the person has a history of heart disease or not. I think the doctor mentioned that it may have been triggered by Justin’s body going into shock and it was a response to trying to pump the blood faster to the area of injury. The explanation is still a little bit of a blur because of everything that was happening that night.

"Anyway, afterwards, Justin was in a coma for two weeks. And during that time, he crashed out twice more- once on the night of the surgery to relieve the pressure between the left side of his cranium and frontal lobe, and then later due to an allergic reaction of an ingredient within the sedative they were giving him to keep him in a medically induced coma. After he had come out of the coma, we found out that the motor skills of his right hand were severely affected. Justin is an artist, and although ambidextrous, his right hand had been conditioned to draw, sketch, and paint for long periods of time. So Justin entered an intensive occupational therapy program.”

“And did it help?”

“Believe it or not, not as much as Brian Kinney,” Jennifer laughs. “Although I had initially asked Brian to stay away for reasons I won’t go into here, doing so ultimately made Justin work that much harder to get out of the hospital. The goals they set for Justin had to be completed in order to regain at least twenty percent of his right hand’s functionality before they would release him because of the traumatic brain injury. Justin would ask where Brian was everyday, multiple times per day, and the answer was always the same: ‘Justin concentrate on you, and not Brian.’ It had gotten to the point where Justin stopped asking… but then again, he’d stopped speaking altogether unless it was to the doctors or nurses who were taking care of him, and to Daphne. Next thing I knew, Justin was ready to leave the hospital, and that night, with the help of Daphne AGAIN, Justin went in search of Brian.”

“Quite the little accomplice, aren’t you?” He laughs as he addresses Daph, who blushes prettily.

“I know if the situation was my own, Justin would have done those things and more for me. We’ve been best friends practically since the cradle, and will be to the grave. Besides, I’m a little bit in love with the Face of God, too.”

“Daph…” Justin groans, while I just snicker.

“Brian? Justin? Daph, you want to tell me what that comment is about, now don’t you? I can see the sparkle of mirth in your eyes, so come on and spill,” George wheedles, to the sound of all of our laughter and Justin’s blush.

“It’s just how Justin described Brian to me after their first night together. What can I say? We were teenagers in an Episcopalian school. Misquoting phrases- even those biblically related- was a way of life.”

I look down the row, and am even surprised to see Joan laughing at that. What is the world coming to that even SHE can appreciate the humor of teens prone to turning everything into some type of prose? God, was I ever that young? Sometimes it seems that I was born an adult. As the laughter dies down, I hold onto Justin’s hand just that little bit tighter, and he knows exactly where my thoughts went for that brief second I looked at Joan. He, too, smiles at the joy he sees in her eyes now. I know the spell is going to be broken soon. I don’t know when, or how, I just do.

“So basically young Justin had an old soul, Brian?” George asks.

“Yes, I suppose you could say that. If you were to ask anyone who the more mature of us was at the time we met, many would tell you that it was Justin. He was always so much more emotionally… secure, than I was. That feeling is a little more new to me, as opposed to Justin who is recovering his sure footing in that realm.”

“Strange that you should say that, since most teens have an abundance of emotions flying around all the time. It’s supposed to go with that particular territory.”

“Yes, and no, in my case,” Justin answers. “Brian and I both grew up in environments that desensitized us to those rogue emotions… well mostly that was the case for him. In my case, I was dealing with an emotionally distant father, and a mom who wasn’t sure how to parent a gay son.”

“Why did that seem different to you, Jennifer?”

“Looking back on that time, I really couldn’t tell you why except that instead of having the daughter-in-law of my fairy tale dreams for Justin, I ended up with Prince Charming himself, or should I say the King…”

“Nope that title belongs to Justin,” I say, once again making Justin blush.

“Brian…”

“The title belongs respectively to both of you, Brian darling. You are the undisputed King of Liberty Avenue, and for reasons probably best unknown to me, I’ve heard Justin referred to as the King of Babylon on several occasions.” She raises her eyebrow at both of us, while Melanie laughs outright.

“You’ll never be able to hide anything from her; you both know that right?” Mel chortles.

“And neither can you, Miss Melanie Marcus, but of course we will also talk about that very thing later as well,” Jennifer smiles evilly, while Mel shrinks back in the seat. Me and Justin both laugh good-naturedly since we know exactly what Mother Taylor wants to speak to Mel about.

“Jennifer, it seems you have quite a handful keeping all of them in line.”

“Yes, and no. They are all my darlings, but sometimes they need things pointed out and to be guided in the right direction. Joan and I have been working on establishing how to do that without giving into the natural inclination to mother our adult children. It’s definitely a fine line between parenting and guiding.”

“Brian and I are only just reestablishing a relationship after many years of estrangement,” Joan says. “I know that the time to parent him has passed, but I would hope that he’ll at least listen when I voice my concerns.”

“We’re working on it, and so far we’re doing okay,” I say, before turning back to George. “Our homelife when I was a kid wasn’t a happy one. I’ve only just learned the reasons for that, and we were all abused in some way. I suppose that could even be said about my deceased father, Jack, but I think his was more self-inflicted than anything else now.  Anyway, long story short, Joan and I have reached an understanding of sorts. She and I had a very similar experience recently that gave us some common ground to start from. While Mother Taylor has been helping Joan, Justin has been helping me through it all. I think it’s just the magic of Jenn and Justin. In a sense, they have been at the same crossroads that me and Joan are even if it’s within a different context. So their insight is proving invaluable.”

“That’s great, especially considering that so many out there either don’t know how to bridge that particular gap, or don’t want to at all. I hate to bring her up, but what about your sister, who is currently in a correctional facility on a number of charges related to both you and Justin? Will you ever be able to make amends with her if she extends the olive branch of reconciliation?”

“I honestly don’t know. Claire and I grew up in the same emotionally and physically abusive environment, it’s true, even though she was mainly just a witness and then became an instigator of it alongside one of the other defendants…”

“You’re talking about Michael Novotny?”

“Yes. Ironically, when things got a bit unbearable at home, it was his mother’s house that I escaped to.”

“Is that how you became friends?”

“Yes, and no. At first, it was that like any comic book geek in the ninth grade, I thought Michael needed defending. Since I knew what it was like to be defenseless, I took it upon myself to protect him. It helped that I was known around the school, not only because of my academic and athletic prowess, but from being in one particular altercation with the biggest bully in school. I don’t think I’ll ever forget Chuck Haddock, not because he was a really tough opponent, but because of the reason why he decided to attempt to beat me up in the first place. I knew I was gay a long time before I reached high school, but I guess others never picked it up that I was only ever friends with girls, including his girlfriend. Looking back on it now, I find it kinda hilarious, but then again there were all these preconceived notions of what a gay man should look like, even back then.

“Anyway, Michael began to stick to me closer than glue, and at first I didn’t think anything of it. I just looked at him as someone who needed a protector, and I seemed to fit the description; sort of like one of his comic book superheroes. In retrospect, and with everything that’s been discovered since that fateful day so long ago, I probably should have run screaming the other way. But if I had, I never would have met the people closest to me, or the man I have always seen as my true Dad, Victor Grassi. He has always been there for me to count on, even if it was just to talk or assist in patching me up. He and Emmett are the proprietors of HoneyGrass Elegant Creations, which is under the Kinnetik umbrella. He always supported mine and Justin’s dreams, so it means a lot to watch theirs come true.”

“How did Michael and your sister meet? By what you just said, you used to escape to the Novotny/ Grassi household when things got a bit tough for you at home.”

“I would imagine they met either at school, or when Michael would meet me at my house before going to the diner where his mother worked after school; I’m not really sure and never thought much about it until recently. I just know that they both shared a common goal, and it was that I wouldn’t amount to anything but the life that my father planned for me and leave them behind. Back then, it was expected that I would follow my father’s footsteps and work in the steel mills, while Claire was raised to be a housewife. That wasn’t what I planned to do so unlike Claire, I decided to get off my ass and get out instead of using the family I was born into as an excuse not to set goals for myself. I was determined that their expectations wasn’t going to be my end.

"I worked odd jobs after soccer practice to earn scholarships- both academic and athletic- while keeping my grades up. I succeeded attending Carnegie Mellon at first, the transferring to Penn State. There I completed all my degrees in Advertising, Finance and International Business. Later on, I worked to put myself through grad school in order to obtain my Masters degrees in Advertising and Finance. I was never one to rest on my laurels, and still don’t. To me, learning was and IS my job, even while I work with Justin to grow our careers, both individually and collectively. If I ever stop learning, both in life and in business, then I might as well throw in the towel right now.”

“And Justin, do you feel the same way?” George asks him.

“Yes, I do, which is what makes me and Brian work well together in all facets. After the Stockwell situation, I took on whatever jobs I could, even setting up a business venture that I didn’t really know would actually become one until a little while ago; I just thought of it as a gift for a friend. I was also working on a comic book that had done better than I expected at the time. I can’t say that there was ever a time that we weren’t busy in some capacity. Brian and I push each other, drive each other, and challenge each other at every opportunity…”

“Yes, indeed!” Mel interjects. “Their fights in the office and out of it are already legendary. We all don’t believe in operating under our best quality. That even filters in the way the three of us co-parent Gus. I never thought that I wanted Brian involved, but I am more than a little glad that he is now.”

“Why didn’t you want him involved?”

“Because they are too much alike,” Justin says, and laughs. Mel and I both pinch him, causing him to yelp while we all laugh at his discomfort. He should have expected that for trying to color me with the same brush as Melanie.

Mel sobers, just barely, before speaking again. “It was so more that as I was guilty of seeing what I wanted to see in reference to the type of man Brian is. It didn’t help that my ex-partner, who always lauded herself as one of Brian’s best friends, also wanted her heteronormative fantasy to come true featuring the ever-elusive Brian Kinney.”

“But she had to have known that she didn’t stand a chance with him, didn’t she?”

Melanie laughs mirthlessly, and the sound tells me more about the deep pain Lindsay has caused her throughout the years than anything else could have. “My ex believes she has this certain allure, which would get her anything she ever wanted. It worked on me, or on her other lovers, or the money she received from them, and even Brian, but that’s where a very thick line was always drawn. Brian may have experimented with her when they were young; he may have given her money the way a friend would, but the two things that Brian would NEVER give Lindsay Peterson were a repeat performance of their college folly, or a MARRIAGE made in hell. And I’m willing to bet that right now it’s just burning her ass raw every time she hears Brian and Justin’s legally hyphenated last names, because she always somehow thought that Justin was her clone.”

“Which is just all sorts of horse pucky!” comes the near-screech from the far end of the sofa.

“NANCY!” we all yell, clutching our invisible pearls. As serious as all of this is, we all can’t help but laugh at the tell-tale blush on her cheeks.

“Pardon the outburst, but… well Melanie, I may have misjudged you over the years at various times, but I’m not too big to admit that I was wrong. My daughter did NOT deserve you, nor Brian in her life. And as for her overinflated ego to even dare to think she could measure up to Justin Taylor-Kinney, it makes me want to take a trip to where she is to PHYSICALLY disabuse her of that ridiculous notion. She has no integrity, and honestly between her and Justin’s father, I really don’t know who is worse in the parent department!”

“I’m a little curious about that statement,” George says. “I know that he’s currently awaiting trial for various charges as well, and that you cannot elaborate fully, but I take it this has something to do with the speculation of a conspiracy which is in direct correlation Justin’s incident, correct?”

Ron answers, this time. “Indeed it is. That is why we’re here other than to publicly show our support for Brian and Justin, which is yet another thing that is sure to upset our daughter. Despite whatever innuendo is floating around due to the same conspiracy surrounding Justin’s incident, I want to go on record that I had nothing to do with it.”

“Where is that particular implication coming from?”

“Sadly where most of bad things originate according most people, Satan and Lilith. Or in this case we’ll just call them Justin’s father and my eldest daughter. Although there can’t be an elaboration on it, I would bet my Cadillac that there is truth in all facets to that alliance born of Beelzebub. I suppose only time will reveal all, since I know that most of us- if not all- will be attending each of the trials, and I’m sure there is evidence that we haven’t even seen or heard of. But none of them, especially Lilith, I mean Lindsay, should get away with anything that they’ve done which can be PROVEN beyond doubt. I know the District Attorney’s Office is working very hard to gather and sift through all of the evidence concerning Brian and Justin’s cases.”

“Speaking of cases, I’m going to defer to Jessica and allow her to take over from here in reference to the Federal indictments which will be coming down. You guys are considered heroes in more than just the LGBT community. With your work as the Concerned Citizens for Truth, and with the backing of another organization called Fly Free, you have some big plans for the City of Pittsburgh. And we will get to hear all of those when we come back right after this…”

“Great job, Everyone. We’ll be back on air in about five minutes, so for those of you who need to stretch your legs, or whatever else- with the exception of Brian and Justin- have at it,” Jinx says. When I give her the stink eye, she just laughs. “Your antics from earlier is the stuff of legends, so we’ve decided to keep an eye on you for now. After all, the break isn’t that long.”

“But five minutes…” Justin starts to complain, but is cut off from her laughter.

“I doubt even your quickies are five minutes, so the answer is still NO. You guys go grab something to drink and relax for a few while I confer with George and the others.”

She moves off and we’re left alone for just a few moments. “How are you holding up really, Brian?”

“Okay for now.”

“Me, too.”

“I just can’t wait for all of this to be over.”

“Me neither,” Justin pouts, and then smiles. “I’ll make you a deal.”

“Yeah?”

“If you keep being on your best behavior, I’ll give you the surprise gift I was waiting to give you when we finally got out of here.”

“A surprise? What is it?”

“You have to behave first.” Justin winks playfully at me.

“But you like it when I’m bad.”

“True, but I promise it will be the worth the wait.”

“Okay, Sunshine, have it your way,” I whisper, bringing him into my arms.

“I always do,” he teases, but buries his face into my neck.

After untold minutes absorbing strength from each other, Jinx comes back over to us, tapping me on the shoulder. “Ready for round two?”

“Not yet, but we will be,” I respond.

“I understand the sentiment, but the good news is that I spiked your lemonade. You can thank me later.”

“How about I just go ‘thank’ Justin in your place?” I say, suggestively.

“Nice try, Hot Stuff. Besides, haven’t you ever heard of anticipation being the best aphrodisiac?”

“Of course, but then that person has never seen what’s under Justin’s slacks right now.”

“Tell you what… maybe during the next break I can lax my leash on you both, as long as you promise to play by the rules right now. So far, you guys are doing really well. You’ve been completely honest even while walking the fine line just this side of TMI. You’re playing the game like the pros you are.”

“Well Game ON, then. The sooner we get this segment done, the sooner I can play with my own personal joystick!” Justin announces, practically bouncing as we follow Jinx back to the comfortable sofa to begin the next phase of the Inquisition...