CHAPTER 1 - THE SIREN CALL

BRIAN KINNEY’S LOFT - EARLY DAWN

BEDROOM

BRIAN

Why the fuck can’t I sleep?! Okay, so they weren’t the greatest fucks in the world, but it should’ve been enough to knock me out. But here I am, wide awake. It feels so stuffy in here, so I get up and open the window and bask as the cool air wraps around my body. It doesn’t chill me, it just hugs me in its embrace.

“Might as well do some work.” I grumble, and head to my desk but then stop and head back to the widow to open it wider. It is very faint, but it hits me like a thunderbolt.

I don’t know why but I do.

MICHAEL’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

BEDROOM

MICHAEL

I bite my lip as Ben thrusts into me once more. He smiles and starts to move faster, the pleasure spirals up my spine and starts to bloom all over my body. “It’s good, right?” He pants, and all I can do is nod, because if I speak I will say; yes, Brian, it is everything that I imagined!

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY - EARLY AFTERNOON

GRADUATION HALL

CHRIS

Daph and I exchange looks and then look across at Justin who has his guitar case and is slowly edging towards the end of the row. He wants to get to his spot on Liberty Avenue and earn his crust. Why he doesn’t just take the musical internship is still a mystery to everyone, including his parents!

“And it is, I guess, your great pleasure that I declare the end of your educ…” Dicky Dixon doesn’t even get to finish his sentence before there is an enormous roar and everyone charges towards the doors. Daph and I laugh as we look to the stage and find he is the only teacher left on the stage and being ignored.

How we hate that man!

It doesn’t take us long to get to the lockers, and we just shake our heads as Justin sprints to the exit doors.

“Seriously, just why?!” A jock asks as he flies past him. “Why is that guy single?!  I mean, just look at him! If I were that way inclined, I would plough…”

“Phillips!” Dicky Dixon’s voice booms down the corridor. “We will not have any of that disgusting way of speaking about a fellow student! Neither Mr Taylor nor I appreciate that kind of talk. Besides, you wouldn’t…”

“Yes I would, Sir, I surely would!” Phillips snickers along with his friends, who like most of CMU treat Dicky Dixon like the annoyance he is, and start to walk away.

“You have as much chance as I…”

“He turned you down, Dicky, just fucking get over it!” I mutter to Daph and she nods, I slam my locker closed for the last time. “As for why Phillips...” I shout out and the corridor goes quiet, Phillips and his crew turn around but they aren’t the only ones keen to know the answer. “...he’s got a boyfriend whom he loves very much.”

“Ah, Mr Dixon!” Dean Chafton strides towards us. “A word if I may. Mr Hobbs, Miss Chanders, I take it I have missed our Maestro?”

“Yes, Dean, you have.” Daph laughs, and then puts out her hand. He drops in ten bucks with a smile. “What, no tip?”

“Yes. The tip is to accept the internship. See if you can persuade him.”

“We’ve been trying for months, he just…”

“He has a brain that would be better served…”

“Mr Dixon, you need to go to my office and remain there in silence!”

DEAN CHAFTON’S OFFICE - TEN MINUTES LATER

DEAN CHAFTON

I pull out the file that I have waited all year to open and clear my throat. James Dixon, a highly regarded Professor of Maths and Applied Science, looks down his nose at me, big mistake! While he is regarded for his teaching skills, his interpersonal ones are the ones that have been causing the most problems.

He doesn’t need to work, but he does to get away from his shrewish social climbing wife, Lindsay. I would award them medals for taking one for the team, for getting together, to save anybody else from the misery of either of their odious company, if I didn't hate them both oh so very much!

“What is this about, Dean Chafton? I have to prepare for my next…”

“University. Or, by the time I have finished telling the truth about you, maybe kindergarten.”

“Kinder…”

“You kept Justin Taylor back a year because he turned you down. He has made numerous complaints about you and your behaviour, all designed to get him alone. No A Grade, and the A refers to his grade point average and not the ass you want to get into, no A Grade student has 43 separate incidents that warrants a written reprimand on his educational record. That’s just cruel wanting to tarnish his future, and to try to make him lose the credits for the course each and every fucking time!”

“I believe in disciplining the…”

“He does not like you that way! If you could have accepted it and behaved like a teacher, it would’ve been fine, but no you behaved like a jealous ex-lover without the sex!”

“I do not like…”

“What you do or do not like is no longer my concern. You will tender your resignation immediately. If not, I will fire you. No matter which way it happens, you are no longer going to be working here!” He goes pale. “The one good thing out of all of this is that he has finally made friends. Chris Hobbs and Daphne Chanders are the best things to happen to him, you are the worst! Now, how is this going to end? With a bog standard reference or you finding work in the Boondocks as a waiter?”

TOP OF LIBERTY AVENUE - EARLY EVENING

JUSTIN

I puff the hair off my forehead as I get myself sorted. Taking a deep breath, I plug in the speaker box, open up my guitar case and clear my throat. Then I begin to sing.

I don't know why I love ya like I do

I don't know why I just do

Well I don't know why you thrill me like you do

I don't know why you, just do

You never seem to want my romancing

Ah, the only time you hold me is when we're dancing

I don't know why I love ya like I do

I don't know why I just do

I don't know why I love you like I do

I don't know why I just do

I don't know why you thrill me like you do

I don't know why you, just do

You never seem to want my romancing

Ah, the only time you hold me is when we're dancing

I don't know why I love you like I do

I don't know why I just do

I don't know why I love ya like I do

I don't know why I just do

I don't know why you thrill me like you do

I don't know why but you do

You never seem to want my romancing

Ah, the only time you hold me is when we're dancing

I don't know why I love ya like I do

I don't know why I just do

“That was beautiful. Who are you singing to?” A distinguished gent asks, and I shrug before sighing. “You know Liberty Avenue Diner?”

“Yeah.” I frown.

“Will meet you in there. I think you and I need to talk.”

LIBERTY AVENUE DINER

JUSTIN

I don’t actually know why I agreed to meet this guy here. I texted Chris and Daph to tell them where I am, and also my folks and Molly. Dad, as usual, said he will be here in thirty minutes, I smile as I read his text, in all capitals DO NOT MOVE FROM THERE! BUY YOUR OWN FOOD AND DRINK AND REMEMBER TO LEAD WITH YOUR LEFT IF I AM NOT THERE IN TIME!

“Hello. My name is Marilyn.” The gentleman sits down in front of me and my face must have shown my surprise. “Mysterious Marilyn as I am properly known, and you are?”

“Justin. Justin Taylor and…”

“Chris Hobbs and Daphne Chanders. We will be sitting in that booth right behind you, mess with him at your peril!” Chris growls and sits down.

“My peril? I haven’t been in peril for a while, but Daphne and Chris, you can be reassured that his virtue is safe. I am much too old and value my life too much to even countenance a filthy thought about him.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Daph seethes.

“Exactly what I said. Now, why don’t you two sit down and share a milkshake and then kiss while I speak to this fine specimen here?” My mouth drops open as Chris and Daph go bright red and step apart from each other. “Debs, can we have a strawberry choc milkshake and two straws please?!”

“Sure!” A redheaded waitress calls out as she busses a table.

“Ten minutes.” Marilyn tells her, and I look puzzled. “He’s at the corner of Barkers and Liberty and waiting for his best friend.”

“Still don’t get it!” She laughs and starts to set up a booth at the back.

“Marilyn…”

“Wait and see.” He smiles and sits back. “Oh yes, you are going to cause him a whole host of delicious problems, and...hello Emmett.” I look around to see who he is talking to, but can see nobody and then up from the floor comes a flamboyantly dressed man grinning and chuckling.

“One day I am going to sneak up on you!” He slides into the seat next to Marilyn and I am beginning to feel that this diner is inhabited by lunatics!

“Well thanks for...uh whatever this was, and…”

“It’s him, isn’t it?” Emmett looks me up and down while Marilyn nods.

“Look, can you…” I begin.

“What time do you call this, you reprobate asshole?!” Debs calls out from the hatch.

“Don’t blame me! He had to go back, he forgot it!” A muscular man calls out as he saunters to the hatch and kisses her cheek.

“Where is that son of mine?”

“Helping.” He grimaces a little before smiling again.

“Ben…”

“Debs, not now. I know and you know, but he won’t and you know that.”

“But, it is still so…”

“You could’ve waited!” A nasally whine pierces the air and a dark haired furious looking man comes in, stomping up to the back booth.

“Why would he do that?” Debs snaps at him. “Nobody wants to see their boyfriend lusting after his best friend!”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“You know damn well what it means. Stop shitting where you eat, and eat your damn meal!”

“I am going to the bathroom! You know what I want, Ben!”

“Well, Marilyn and uh Emmett, I am....” I stand up and nod at Chris and Daph. “...going to go now. It was odd to meet you, and…”

“He’ll be here just a few more minutes. Please.” Marilyn beseeches me and I slowly sit back down.

“Five minutes. That’s all. I have just got out of uni and want to celebrate with…”

BRIAN

As I walk down to the diner, I start to hum, I have had this fucking tune in my head for the last few days and it is driving me insane! I have tried every search engine I know to get the name of the song, but I don’t have the words, just the melody!

“Ah, asshole number two!” Debs booms, and immediately I look at Ben, who mouths apologies and I just shake my head. “Your explanation!”

“I have none. I forgot I had to go to the pharmacy to replenish my script, and...oh for fuck sake!” I pinch the bridge of my nose and grumble as again the melody invades my brain.

“Honey, you okay?!” Debs is immediately over and looks at me carefully.

“I’m fine, just got an earworm.” I smile at her and prise her fingers off my chin.

“What does that even mean?” Debs starts to head to the back. “I won’t be long, just getting my coat!”

“Debs, calm down!” Ben laughs. “An earworm is a tune that you keep hearing in your head, you can’t shake it. The only way to get rid of it is to listen to it or sing it until you get sick of it.”

“Still going to get my coat and get him home!” She calls out.

“Okay, I have had enough, this is weird, and we are leaving!” A soft but angry voice gets my attention and I turn to it. The first thing I see is the end of a guitar case, and then a pair of sneakers pushing the case out of the booth.

The owner of the sneakers stands up and puffs his hair off his forehead, and my breath stops. He is...well, I don’t know who he is...but just that he is! Then the melody that I have had in my ear all day has words, and I start to sing:

I don't know why I love ya like I do

I don't know why I just do

Well I don't know why you thrill me like you do

I don't know why you, just do

You never seem to want my romancing

Ah, the only time you hold me is when we're dancing

I don't know why I love ya like I do

I don't know why I just do

He had made his way to the door with two other people, but then stopped and turned around, his expression incredulous. The case crashes to the floor and I find my arms filled with a gorgeous blonde who is just staring at me. “It's you. I love you.” He states quietly.

“I love you too.” I reply.

“Brian?” Ben calls out my name, but all I can see are blue eyes and full lips, and all I can hear is the sound of my heart hammering in my chest.

“Want to go?” I ask him.

“Yes.” He replies, and I lead him out of the diner, which had gone completely silent.

MARILYN

I smile at Emmett, then nod in the direction of the back. Sighing, he gets up and makes his way over. Chris and Daphne are stock still near the door, not knowing quite what to do, so I beckon them over.

“What just happened?” Daphne asks. “And is he safe?”

“They finally met, and yes he is. Now, about you two?”

“There is no us two!” Chris blusters.

“But you would like there to be. You don’t want to break up the gang, but worry not. You, like Justin and Brian, will be fine. Nothing is going to get between the three of you.”

“Brian?” Daphne queries.

“Brian Kinney, Stud Extraordinaire of Liberty Avenue. And after all this time, he has found him.”

“Found who? Maybe we should call Craig and…” Chris trails off. “...what is your problem, buddy?” He snarls looking at the back booth.

“I can look where I want!” Michael barks back before sliding into the booth and leaning against the wall. Then he gets territorial and drapes Ben’s arm across his shoulders before he leans against him. “Besides, I was giving you the stink eye because you are ogling my boyfriend!”

“Now he’s your boyfriend!” Debs declares as she comes out the back with Emmett, then heads to the hatch to collect their food. “Where’s Brian gone?”

“Dunno, most likely off to fuck and suck.” Michael grumbles. “Is it his usual? If so, it can keep, I will drop it off later. You don’t mind, do you Ben?”

“Would it make a difference if he did?” Emmett asks as he leans against their booth.

“Why does everyone have a problem with me wanting to be helpful to Brian after all he’s been through…”

“We don’t have a problem with you being helpful, it’s your idea of gratitude we have a problem with!” Debs growls.

CHRIS

I look at Daph and can see her twilight zone time to go expression. “Well, thanks for…”

“He was shot. Someone shot him in the head. He almost died. Never caught the guy.” Marilyn says quietly. “But a young man found him and stayed with him until the ambulance came, visited him every day and would…”

“Sing.” Daph breathes then looks at me with tears in her eyes. “Chris, it’s him, the guy from the hospital, it’s him.”

CHAPTER 2 – SETTING UP THE CHESS BOARD

DAPHNE

“Stop ogling my boyfriend!” The annoying prick behind us is now at the side of the booth glaring at Chris, who just rolls his eyes and gives me the drink up signal, so I nod and grab Justin’s case.

“Please don’t leave, there is more to tell.” Marilyn pleads and slowly we sit back down.

“Don’t you have a boyfriend to guard?!” Chris snaps and cracks his knuckles.

“Michael, you are once again making a show of yourself! Come and sit down and leave the kids alone, he’s not ogling Ben!” The redhead snaps and comes over to us. “Sorry about him...” She shoves him to get him to go back to his booth. “…he’s a bit of a drama queen.”

“I am not!” He grouses as he sits back down and judging by the expression on Chris’s face, he is still staring at him.

“Why don’t you two sit with your back to us? That way I don’t have to look at your ugly mug and you don’t have to watch the ogling that is only going on in your head!”

“Look buddy! I don’t know who you think you are but…”

Chris getting to his feet makes Marilyn smile. “You don’t, so why not just shut the fuck up and leave us grown-ups to talk! I think we should leave Daph. If Marilyn wants to talk some more sh…he can come with us but that guy is beginning to piss me off!”

“Yes, let’s go to my office. Emmett are you coming?!”

“Absolutely!”

“Mari, use the office, don’t be run out because…”

“No thanks Debs. We will be going. Learn to muzzle that boy.” He tells her and waves the three of us ahead.

“Let me take that from you sweetie.” Emmett reaches for the case. “That way Chris can hold your hand.”

“Oh for crying out loud!” I hand him the case. “Okay let’s just hold hands so that the Mills and Boon crew can get off and move on!” I snark and hold out my hand, with a roll of his eyes he takes it then we look at Marilyn. “So where are we going?”

BRIAN’S LOFT - TWENTY MINUTES LATER

LOUNGE

JUSTIN

“I don’t know why I said that.” I tell him quietly, it’s the first words either of us have spoken since we left the diner.

“Seemed to be the right thing?” He suggests and I nod. “Brian.”

“Justin.”

“Oh I should say thank you, I guess.” He lets out a small laugh before rolling his lips in. “For staying with me.”

“It’s okay, I do it every day. In between studying and busking, I save lives of beautiful men. You look well, I mean, since the last time I saw you.”

“Yep. You have grown up, less babyfaced.”

“Thanks!” I snort in mock indignation. “This babyface is 21!”

“So you were 17. Wow...Why were you out so late and why...”

“Busking. And why did I visit?” He nods. “Dunno just did.” I scrutinise his face and if anything he has got more beautiful. “Can I see it?” He lifts his hair and I move so I can see the entry wound. He has covered it with a sun tattoo, it glints through his hair. “How long before you were...”

“Back to normal? About two years.” He scrutinises my face the same way I did his. “33. And I didn’t imagine it did I?”

I shake my head and feel my face start to heat. “I couldn’t just leave and do nothing. I wasn’t taking advantage of you, just the situation. Which sounds even worse! What I meant....”

“...is that I owe you.” He turns to face me. “At least two.” I am sure he can hear my heart banging against my ribs. When his fingers lift my chin up and then touch my bottom lip, I feel like I am going to explode. “Payment now?”

“Please.” I mutter and lean forward and as our lips touch, I know it was the right thing to say.

DINER - SAME TIME

MICHAEL

I pick at my food and wait for Ma to box up Brian's lunch. I look at my watch again, I should give him an hour. “Ma, what is taking so long?!” I call out.

“For what?” She calls back while keeping an eye on the coffee she is pouring.

“Brian's lunch.” I retort. “He needs to keep up his strength.”

“Ben took it. Said he would drop it off at Kinnetic.”

“He could’ve told me that!” I grumble and throw down my fork before snatching up the bill. “Did he settle this?” I wave it at her.

“Said you would.” She smirks. “Remember my tip.”

I shake my head and put down some money and then head back towards the store, calling Ben on the way. He takes a while to pick up. “Ben, where are you? Have you...oh you’ve just dropped it off. It’s just that I was going to do it.” I unlock the store and flip the sign. “So what did he say? Was he back? What do you mean no? How long does it take to have a fumble up an alleyway?! Look never mind, I have a customer. Will I see you tonight? Okay later tater...oh for fuck sake, sorry I’m sorry, okay?! Are you sure you’re okay? Right bye.”

I put the phone down on the counter and stretch. I am about to head to flip the sign back, so I can go to Kinnetic when a guy comes in. “Are you still open?”

“Door’s unlocked and I’m here so, uh yeah.” I retort.

“Well aren’t you charming? I will seek the answer elsewhere!” He snaps and storms out.

“Fuck you!” I snap at the closed door and take that opportunity to quickly lock the door.

Picking up my phone I head to the office and check through my emails. The shipment won’t be in until tomorrow so I might as well remain closed.

I think briefly back to my conversation with Ben and feel a bit guilty about later tater, but not that much. They are just words, yeah so they were the last words Brian said to him before he got shot, but he’s still here. Ben being so sensitive about their use is silly, it's not as if he is suffering from PTSD, if anyone is the drama queen it is him!

MARILYN’S HOUSE OF LOVE AND MAGIC - TEN MINUTES LATER

CHRIS

“He’ll be here soon, I’m…”

“Chris, calm down. These streets can be labyrinth like to those who haven’t been here.” Marilyn smiles and Emmett is just staring at me. “What?”

“You realise that every time you two come here we are going to badger you to kiss until you do. We will know when you have, so you might as well do it now, so we can gauge your technique and her response.”

“Now just a second Mills!” Daphne exclaims. “Holding hands is one thing but…”

“...4th grade, is when you first saw her, then you moved and only reconnected in high school. You didn’t have to go to CMU but you did. As for you, Miss Repudiation you like him a lot. Want me to tell him about that card that…”

“That was you? Thought it was Cara, what a relief! I…”

“See we are just friends. Very good ones and…”

“Hello! Chris! Daphne! Justin! Are you here?! Are you okay?!” Mr Taylor shouts as he rushes through the curtains in full on protect mode. “Where is Justin?! Shall I get Molly?!”

“Mr Taylor, we’re fine. Justin is with Brian, the guy from the hospital.” Daph starts to get teary again and I find a tissue for her.

“The guy from the…” He sits down. “...what happened to the guy now?”

“Nothing. They just found each other again. I am Marilyn and this my sooth and scribe in all things love, when he is not being fashion director to the elite, Emmett Honeycutt.”

“Nice to meet you both. Craig Taylor.” They shake hands. “So this Brian, where does he live? Did Justin drive here?”

“Tremont and yes he did. He’s been parking under the loft without knowing, it wasn't time. Neither were ready and now they are and…” Emmett begins to weep and I find him a tissue too.

“Before you start from the beginning.” Mr Taylor sighs. “First let me tell you what I know, four years ago Justin was busking around here and he heard a noise, like a struggle and then a couple of gunshots, I was a…”

“Cop, yes we know, you now run a very successful security business.” Marilyn interrupts and smiles, like he’s proud. “Continue.”

“Yes, well anyway, he finds this guy and stays with him, he could’ve left him at the hospital but he felt compelled to stay, like to keep him company. Visited all the time he could, then he found a bit more about the...about Brian, about him being gay and the…”

“...police writing it off as a hate crime with no further leads...” Marilyn grouses.

“That is utter bullshit, someone targeted him, maybe a mugging gone wrong but I digress. He came home and came out, just like that. So proud. Not gonna lie took a bit of getting used to, always thought that he and Daph would one day...but now I see it is her and Chris, if they would just get a move on!

“And he doesn’t have the power like we do!” Emmett crows.

“Okay…” He looks between the two of us. “...seriously just get it together! So back to Justin, he kept visiting but then Brian was discharged to rehab and he never saw him again.”

“Until today.” Daph grins then leans across and kisses me on the cheek. “That is all the show you are getting. Now tell us about Brian!”

“Ah now Brian, there is a talented man! His memory is slowly coming back, he’s got an eidetic one and can draw like a dream. This is why he is one of the most in demand film artists in the world. Started Kinnetic but then after what happened he lets Ted, my best and dearest, and Cynthia run it and he does what he wants.”

“Which does include fucking whosoever will let him. But he is not unfeeling, those who come across his path are told from the get go what to expect. However, in Justin, he has found his Siren.” Marilyn explains as Daph and Mr Taylor look worried. “And when he has had relationships, he was faithful.”

“So now what do we do?” I ask and quickly let go of Daph’s hand but she takes mine back.

“You go home. Brian will get Justin back safely.” Marilyn smiles.

KINNETIC - AN HOUR LATER

RECEPTION

MICHAEL

I drum my fingers on the arm of the chair. “Mr Novotny?” Caleb, the receptionist calls out. “We’ve heard from Brian, he is not coming back in to the office.”

“I am pretty sure he wouldn't want you to call him by his first name.” I bite out and grab my jacket.

“And I am sure having worked with Brian for the last four years, and his first words to me were; my late fucker of a father was Mr Kinney and I am not him, call me Brian, that he is fine with it. Any message?”

“No.” I snarl and storm out fuming not only that I didn’t get to check on Brian but Ben took his lunch with him when he found out he was out fucking in some grubby alleyway, in no doubt, an even grubbier hole!

MARILYN’S HOUSE OF LOVE AND MAGIC - TEN MINUTES LATER

MARILYN

I close the door behind them and heave a sigh of relief, I take a few seconds to savour the quiet.

“So what do we do?” Emmett drapes himself across the chaise.

“We wait and help where we need to but that’s all.”

“So who else do we have to work on?” He grins as he nods.

“Vic needs to meet Rodney, Debs and Jennifer need to become friends and…”

“I had no idea they swung that way, just goes to show…”

“They don’t. But Jennifer knows Carl, so that’s how they meet and then there is Ted, are you sure about this chap?”

“Yes. Absolutely.” He checks his watch and starts to gather his things. “Right have to get back, Gucci does not wait for love! Oh that reminds me, I must book Brian and Ben in for their fitting.” He grimaces. “Do not understand that pairing, just don’t get it.”

“We don’t have to understand it, we just need to get them to where they need to be and our players are in place. There are more players coming...at least two.”

“Okay, see you Maz!”

I grimace at his nickname for me and as usual he avoids my swat and closes the door whistling.

I can finally breathe...oh yes our players are almost all here in this chess game of love and revenge. I know what you did and I have the people here that can prove it! Your move Dirty Harry, your move!

CHAPTER 3 - A STEP BACK IN TIME BRINGS IN A NEW PLAYER

MARILYN’S HOUSE - JUST BEFORE MIDNIGHT

LOUNGE

MARILYN

I smirk as I turn the card. “Ah, I wonder what you are here for? Who are you my dear?” I turn the next card and then smile. “Yes, you are what he needs...” I reach for my phone and wait for it to ring. “...hello Emmett, yes I felt it too, no a different kind of love. Goodnight, I will see you in the morning.”

BEN’S HOUSE - NEXT MORNING

BEN

Opening the door, I smile at Brian and look behind him. “Morning. Where? Who? Why?” He wipes his feet on the mat with a smirk and steps inside, giving me a peck on the lips.

“Have you washed that mouth before you kissed him with it?” Michael jokes from the stairs as he comes down ready to go to his store, I hope he goes quickly and wish that he wouldn’t needle him this early in the morning, he knows he will retaliate.

“Hmmm. Did I taste nice and minty fresh?” Brian asks cheekily. “Want me to do again? Just to check?”

Case in point!

“No, let’s have some coffee and then you can answer.” I wave him ahead of me and ignore the huff from behind me.

“What questions did you ask?” Michael sits the seat opposite Brian who get up and leans against the sink instead. “Sit down, Brian, you are blocking the light. This kitchen is dark enough.” I shoot him a look, and with a small shrug he sits back down. “So the questions?”

“He is wondering where I went yesterday. So to answer...back at his house with his friends, Justin, and because I wanted to.”

“What are you talking about? That fumble up the alley you had?” He wrinkles his nose in disgust.

“What fumble?” Brian frowns, and again I look. “Oh, that one, yeah like I said wanted…”

“Did you eat afterwards? Ben took your lunch with him when he tried to drop it off. I waited for an hour to make sure you got back safely…”

“What for? I am a grown man. I can find my own way around, I…”

“Being around is what got you shot most likely.” Michael declares hotly.

The scrape of the chair sounds like nails on a blackboard. “No, it was someone having a gun, putting it to my head and shooting me from behind that got me shot. Ben, I’ll…”

“Brian, I won’t be more than ten minutes. Lean against the car and wait, please?”

“Nah…”

“Please? Nine minutes and you can smoke in the car.”

“Ben…” Michael begins.

“A blunt?”

“Yeah, if that’s what it takes, go ahead but open the windows first.” I grip the back of the chair then wait for him to leave and jump at how hard he slams the door.

“In retro…”

“Shut up. Don’t call me today and stay at your place tonight! Starting from now!”

“Ben, I didn’t…” He starts to explain.

“Now, Michael.” I bite out as I switch off the machine, I lean against the sink waiting for him to realise that I am serious and he slowly gets up. “Later tater was bad enough, but that was despicable!”

OUTSIDE BEN’S HOUSE - 7 MINUTES LATER

MICHAEL

Well I truly screwed that morning over! I see Brian lying on Ben’s car blowing smoke rings. Sighing, I approach, clearing my throat at the same time. “I almost punched you.” He says before I can speak. “Ben, being my best friend, is the only thing that stopped me.”

“I am…”

“Not good enough for him, but like Stevie, he sees something that others don’t.”

I feel my hackles start to rise! He has never liked me, ever since we met five years ago. He is always trying to split us up and pull Ben back into his hedonistic lifestyle, but I fought back and Ben is still with me! “I shouldn‘t have said that, it just…”

“You always blame the victim.” Ben’s cold voice halts my attempt to apologise. “I have noticed that more and more lately.” He reaches over and takes the cigar, because the Great Brian Kinney does not smoke mere cigarettes...he smokes cigars.

“Ben, you know…”

“Don't bumsuck it!” Brian orders. “You are taking too much in...you are going to…” Ben starts to cough. “...choke on the smoke.” He finishes with a sigh of exasperation, before he swings himself off the car and starts to clap him on the back.

“Ouch! I’m good, thinking of someone else there were you?” He coughs a couple more times before wiping his eyes. “Where am I dropping you?”

“At the store.” I reply, and go to open the back door, since I am in the doghouse might as well start to make nice.

“He’s talking to me, dipshit.” Brian snipes and I look across at Ben as he makes his way to the driver’s seat.

“Get in.” He says tersely.

“Helps if you unlock the back doors.” I just about manage to keep my annoyance that he didn’t call Brian out under control.

“Like he said, I was talking to him.” Ben snaps and slams the door hard when he gets in. Brian gives me a sarcastic salute before he slides in and they leave me on the sidewalk.

INSIDE BEN’S CAR - TEN MINUTES LATER

BEN

“I know I shouldn’t apologise for…”

“Then don’t! I am really freaking pissed.” He growls, staring mutinously out the window. “I told him and, now I am telling you, I would’ve punched him.”

“I would’ve let you.” I reply quietly and reach over with my pinky finger. With a huff he links it with his. “Can I come over tonight and we talk properly then?”

“Okay, just you. I own the roof and can easily carry him up there.”

“Brian, I would have to break my promise to you and I won’t do that.”

“Good. Because I would hate to have to punch you too.”

“What time and what should I bring?”

“Seven and B&B of course!” He looks scandalised that I should ask such a question. “Actually, can you drop me off here…”

“The diner? Please, Brian...”

“He was warned what I would do, can’t have him thinking I am not a follow through kinda guy amongst other things.”

“This is going to be one fuck of a week.”

“Should’ve thought before he spoke then, shouldn’t he?” He asserts as I pull up. I remain silent as he gets out and brace for the door slam but it doesn’t come. Instead he shuts it gently...firmly but gently and stalks inside.

Michael deserves everything that she’s going to bring his way.

JUSTIN AND CHRIS’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

KITCHEN

JUSTIN

“If you stir that anymore it will turn to butter.” Dad takes the spoon out of my hand and then moves the bowl. “Two things: one, why are you just having cream for breakfast, and two, what happened with Brian?”

“I meant to take out milk.” I sigh, annoyed with myself. “And we kissed.”

“Was it that bad?” He queries, and I catch both the laughter and concern in his voice.

“Not at all. It was very good indeed. In fact, perfect. And that was it.”

“What was it?” He comes to stand next to me and moves me to the sofa. “Sit. Talk.”

“We briefly caught up with each other then we kissed.”

“Annnnnd.” He elbows me gently. “Did Chris say that I met Marilyn and Emmett?”

“Yep.”

“Justin? What’s bugging you? Are you not happy you met him again?”

“Yeah we kissed after all, it’s the other thing.”

“Thought you said there was no other thing.” Daph looks at me darkly as she comes in. “Have you been holding out? Hang on. Chris!”

“One minute!” He bellows and he’s down in less than that. “So give.”

“We just kissed!” I sigh exasperated.

You said I love you. He said I love you back and you just kissed?!” Daph exclaims and I rue her excellent hearing!

“Love you? You both said it? And you want to take it back?” He hedges. “Or you think he does?”

“No and no. And it's not him that’s bothering me, it’s…”

“Dixon.” They all say.

I slump back on the seat. “He’s been fired.”

“What?!” Dad exclaims. “When did this happen and when did you find out? You are moving out of here! He's got nothing to…”

“Dad! I am not running...”

“Yeah, get that.” Chris interrupts my tirade. “But come on, Jus, think logically - and safely - for a second. How’d you find out?”

“Dean Chafton left me a message on my voicemail. Only checked this morning, and the reason I am pissed the fuck off is…”

“Let Molly sort this out for you, I will ring her in a second, she will drop the keys this afternoon.”

“Keys? This afternoon?” We three look puzzled and he looks caught. “How many rooms and where is it?” I try and make my voice sound weary, but really I am relieved.

“Gated just off Liberty Avenue. You know the one that has the…”

“Yes!” Chris exclaims and I glare at him. “Oh come on, it has that massive swimming pool and the music room. Speaking of music…”

“We weren’t.” I cut him off. “We were talking about Dicky Dixon and his nefarious intentions!”

“He’s going to have a lot more than the police to worry about if he even blinks in your direction again!” Mom strides in and I glower at Dad, who merely shrugs, puts his phone on the table and hangs up. “So why weren’t we informed? Why did Chafton tell you?”

“Over the age of 21 and graduated.” I nudge Dad so I can get by and head towards the doorway. “He was doing me a courtesy, he said. He also said he would call you guys on Monday to give you the intricacies of it all. I guess we should go and pack then?”

“Ya think!” Mom drawls and relaxes slightly. “So you going to see him?”

“What the fuck, Jen?!”

“Don’t be obtuse, Craig! I meant Brian!” Mom grouses. “So, are you?”

“Um yeah. Wehavedinnerplanstomorrow. Gotta pack! Daph, help!” I yell as I run upstairs and Mom lets out a litany of cuss words. The one person she can’t get by is Daph. She taught us all to fight, did Mom, but Daph is so much better!

“Justin Cole Taylor!” Dad yells, but he’s laughing, they all are.

When I reach the sanctuary, for now, that is my bedroom I pull out my phone and look at the text I wrote last night. Swallowing hard, I hit send...then shove the phone under my pillow and start to pack.

DINER - THIRTY MINUTES LATER

DEBS

“The bank was fucking heaving!” I explain as I come in, shaking off the rain. Kiki just waves it away from her perch by the counter. “Why are we so quiet?”

“Waiting.” Kiki intones and nods to the back.

I look around but can’t see anything too different, and then I see what she means, as out strides a highly pissed off looking Brian Kinney. “So…”

“Me being around was the reason I got shot.” He fumes. “Debs, there is…”

“Give me an hour, if I am not back send bail money!” I storm and turn heel.

“Wait!” Kiki bellows. “He’s coming across the street now!”

I rip off my coat and roll up my sleeves, then haul the door open. “GET YOUR FUCKING ASS IN HERE RIGHT THE FUCK NOW!” The entire street goes quiet and a very nervous young twink hides behind his leather daddy who glares at me. “Let me deal with that first okay?”

“Okay.”

“Ma, what on earth are you...OW! What the fuck, Ma?!” He clutches his cheek and staggers backwards, his eyes watering.

“A.POL.O.GISE!” I bellow.

“I was going to! I wasn't given…”

“Want a pair?!” I snarl, rolling up my other sleeve.

“I am sorry, okay?! I…” He stops talking and is frowning, so I turn around and Brian is looking at his phone with astonishment. “Brian, is everything okay?”

“Well I’ll be buggered!” He mutters before he finishes the remains of his coffee and strides out.

“Brian!” Michael calls as we both follow him out the door but he doesn't turn around. “What was that about?”

“So you will be grovelling to Ben as well, I take it?!” I bark at him before dragging him back inside. “Well?!”

“He's not talking to me. Said not to call or…” He again stops, but is now staring at the back of the kitchen. “...who is that?” He points at the hatch.

“Never mind that. Back to the subject in hand! Why did you even think it, let alone say it?!”

He sighs. “I don’t know, it just came out.”

“You were bitching! He teased you over Ben somehow and, as usual, you didn’t like it, so you took a swing at the one place that you know hurts. Dipshit!” I smack his arm hard. “You are such a switch when it comes to him. One minute you are trying to crawl down his throat with your dick and tongue leading, and the next you are saying fuckshit like that!”

He says nothing as he is still staring at the hatch. “I have seen that person somewhere before, can’t think where.” He mumbles and his frown deepens when she comes out from the kitchen holding a wallet. “What are you doing with that and who are you?!” He demands striding up to her.

“Not reined in that volume, have you?” She replies coolly before turning her green eyes to me. “Found this, Aunt Debs, according to the ID it belongs to…”

“That’s Brian’s wallet, give it to me!” Michael demands holding out his hand and then he drops it and is now gaping. “Mercy?! Is that you?!” He yells and flings his arms around his old school friend.

“Yes!” She gasps as she hugs him back...but not as enthusiastically as he is I notice.

“What the hell are you doing here?!” He starts to pull her into the booth.

“Not working as a cook for a start…” She replies, then sighs and tugs her arm out of his grasp. “While I am a bitch, I am not a dog, so stop pulling me like I am on a lead.”

MICHAEL

I can’t believe that Mirabelle Mercedes is in town! She was my closest friend throughout school until she moved to London, I was devastated, I tried everything to persuade her parents not to move. “How long are you here for?”

“Ever. Moved back to the States some years ago.”

“How many is some? And why are you only coming go see me now?!”

“I wasn’t coming to see you, Michael.” She replies. “I am here to work and see Aunt Debs. Seeing you is a bonus...I think.”

“I can’t believe my best friend has been back for years and never visited! What are you doing tonight? We can go out and…”

“Best...no can do I’m afraid. Plans already.”

“But we’ve only just reconnected, and…”

“Michael, I have plans. I will call you to arrange something. In the meantime, I need to drop this off at…” She goes through Brian’s wallet. “...Kinnetic. Is that walkable?”

“I can walk with you. I was going to drop that off anyway.” I grin as I stand up and wait for her to do the same, but she doesn’t. “Mercy?”

“Huh? Oh sorry, just thinking. If you’re going to there anyway, saves me a trip and…”

“He doesn’t want you anywhere near the building! May I take that, please?” I sigh as Caleb holds out his hand for Brian’s wallet and then stares at Mercy. “And you are?”

“Mirabelle Mercedes, and you?” I don’t like the way she is smiling at Caleb.

“Caleb Foyle, I work at Kinnetic. And that is my boss and friend’s wallet. He would’ve come back for it himself, but he didn’t care for the company.” He looks meaningfully at me, which she catches and again sighs.

“So where’d his loudmouth run him to?” She asks as she hands it over.

“I tried to apologise, but…”

“You have beautiful eyes.” Caleb tells her, tucking the wallet in his pocket.

“Thanks. So where?” She looks at Ma.

“Owner of the wallet got shot about four years back and he likes to remind him of that whenever he feels aggrieved about something. He’s doing okay now, no too many residual effects apart from snarky assed reminders ever so often.” I sit back down as Mercy’s eyes leave Caleb’s face and slowly swivel to mine.

“Before you even think of asking, for once, they are still dead.” She snaps and then gets up. “Knew this was a mistake! Aunt Debs, I will call you in a couple of days.” She kisses her on the cheek and then, much to his surprise and mine, Caleb’s before striding out.

Caleb glares at me. “Debs, who is that to you?”

“Michael’s one time…”

“She’s not my one time, she is my best friend!” I protest. “How long have you known she was back in the States?”

“I kept in touch with your best friend, which is more than you did! She needed you at one of the most devastating times of her life, and you didn’t even pick up the phone, not fucking once!”

“I was missing her and it was too painful to hear her voice…”

“Her parents had died! She needed you! But it was too painful for you?” Ma interjects and stands up. “Do you know how long it took me to get her to even come to Pittsburgh, let alone Liberty Avenue?!”

“No.” I mutter, wishing the ground would swallow me up.

“Five years!” She growls.

“Hold it, Ma, have you seen Mercy since she moved back here?!” I am starting to fume.

“Of course I have! You have a lot of making up to do, Michael! A lot!” She nods in the direction of a leather queen. “And speaking of that…” She strides over. “...so who is this cutie?!”

“Well, at least Brian’s not the only one, perhaps they can compare stories, and I might suggest that they do!” Caleb gloats and heads out the door yelling his goodbyes to Ma on the way.

As he saunters passed the door, I think two thoughts: one, he is just a receptionist, and two, he is getting too mouthy when he’s on the Avenue!

BRIAN’S LOFT - EARLY EVENING

BEN

I adjust the Beam and wait for him to open the door. When he does, he looks behind me and I feel a little put out. “What? He’s kept you dating him for five years...”

“Let’s not start.” I reciprocate his kiss from this morning as I come in. “Heard Debs haymakered him.”

“Oh great! Who told you?” He tugs on the Beam and I let it go so he can pour us both a much needed drink.

“He did. As usual, I say do one thing he does the opposite.”

“Next time you are fucked off with him, tell him to blow up your phone.”

“I didn't speak to him, he left a message.” I head to the island and slump down on the stool then reach for his pad in surprise. I look at the drawing of the young man and smile. “Is he finished?” I take the glass careful not to drip on the picture. “Is your memory coming back?”

He shakes his head. “Nope. That’s him.” I look at him to see if he is joking. “I am serious, this is what he looks like now.”

“Him as in...the guy who…” It is still too painful for me to say what happened after all this time and he squeezes my shoulder.

“Saved my life.” I nod. “Yes that’s him. Like I said, his name is Justin, and…”

“The diner guy!” I exclaim. “The...holy guacamole!”

“Thank you for not saying Batman after that!” He hands me his phone. “We’re going to dinner tomorrow, but he sent me this earlier.”

I read it and shrug. “So he waited for you. Not sure why he said it tw...oh that waited!”

“Yeah.” I watch my childhood friend of many years look honoured but also full of swagger and lust. “So have I.”

“Huh?” I get up to investigate the fridge for any signs of food and chuckle as I see a familiar tub. “Oh that’s where they ended up.” I laugh as I open the tub of wings. Nuke or slo...you said what and when?”

“I said so have I, and about two minutes after he sent that. Oven roast.” He regards me thoughtfully. “Did Emmett call you?”

“Yeah. We have a fitting for the dinner suits on Tuesday...and after today, you can tell him now if you want?” He starts to smile and points at my phone.

“It will be a pleasure.” He scrolls through and I am trying not to breathe as he dials Michael’s number.

MIRABELLE ‘MERCY’ MERCEDES’S RESIDENCE - SAME TIME

LOUNGE

MERCY

I slip off my boots and scrunch my toes in the rug. He doesn’t do things by half, I will give him that. Grimacing at yet another call from him, I take inhale deeply then put it on speaker. “What is it now?”

“He wants to know if you’ve found him?” I glare at the phone. “What kind of silence is that? Yes, I have. Yes, I fucking have. Or yes now hang the fuck up?”

I put the phone on mute and start to smile despite myself. “Put him on.” I order and wait.

“Mercy, how are you my dear?”

“Fine. I have found him. I shall get him. Stop your goon from calling me.”

“Now, now you know how much Alessjandro hates to be called that…”

“And you know how much I dislike Alessjandro.”

“He’s stepped up a level then? Last week it was hate.”

“Then I saw this place.”

He chuckles and then clears his throat. “In all seriousness, you think you can get him?”

“Yep, we missed before but we won’t miss again.”

“Because you are in charge?”

“Exactly. Now be gone.”

“Did...did you reconnect with…”

“Yeah and it went as expected.” I sigh sadly.

“Alessjandro, please leave us.” I wait for the sound of the door closing and press the phone closer to my ear. “You do not have to do this, we can send someone else, as it is obvious this is still so raw.”

“No, I’m here now, let’s get this job finished so I can get back.”

“Okay. Be safe. Bye my dear.”

“I always am.” I reply and after blowing two kisses down the phone at him I hang up.

CHAPTER 4 - HAPPENSTANCE AND CIRCUMSTANCE LEAD TO A HELLO

BEN

“Hey, Ben.” Michael’s voice is almost drowned by the TV he has on very loud. “Wait, let me turn this down.” As it goes down to a manageable roar he rolls his eyes. “You are not going to believe what happened?! You will never guess, so I will tell you! Do you remember me telling you about my oldest school friend, Meredith Mercedes, well she’s in town!”

“Not Ben, and not interested!” Brian clips out, and the TV is switched off.

“Brian? What are you doing with Ben’s phone?”

“He’s in the changing room, and…”

“Room where?”

“Gucci, checking out stuff for the Awards Dinner.”

“Oh! I didn’t realise that this was tonight, I would’ve…”

“Kept your mouth shut in the hopes that I would still get you a ticket. Sorry, not sorry, but only Ben is coming with me as my guest. However, if you want to come…” I start to wave at him and shake my head. “...you can, it only costs $200 a ticket, but there is no guarantee that you would be on the same table as us.”

“Is Ben there?” He growls.

“He's but he’s changing and you know how much you hate for him to be wearing almost nothing when he’s around me. This is also why you are looking healthier these days, you don’t let him go to the gym on his own. He is as pert as ever I see. Hang on, let me give him his phone back…” I smile-scowl at him and take it, listening to the annoyed breathing on the other end. “It’s Michael.”

“Michael, I told you not to call me.”

“You...well Brian called me!” He exclaims. “So where is he? Still in the changing room with you?”

“In the...no, the fittings for the suit are on Tuesday, we are just in the store checking stuff out. So what did he call you about?”

“The Awards Dinner. I have decided that I am coming, I will buy a couple of tickets, well at least one, unless I can persuade Mercy to come.” He waits for me to ask so I don't.

“Was that all, Michael? Good because you have gotta go.”

“Be…”

We hold our chuckling for a second and then clink glasses after we get ourselves together. “I know you have explained it to me, but I must have been buzzed, just why?! Is he that good at...at something? I mean other than the comic book store, though if he says I promised to do the artwork one more time…”

“He’s asked you to do that again?!” I seethe. “When?”

“Last week.”

“And you said no, and now he’s all about caring!” I check the oven and start to put them in to get sizzly and sticky. “Seriously, where did Debs say she got the recipe from again?”

“Just a family friend.”

“Can’t be that much family, there’s a rule…”

“Huh?” He looks up from pouring.

“Whoever it was that gave her the recipe, made Debs promise that she doesn’t give any to Michael.”

“What? You mean he has never tasted them?” He starts to smile and then saunters to my side and takes out three. “Oven roast and eat in front of him.”

“With my fingers...you know how much of a stickler he is for manners!”

“Shame he’s such a mouth breather when it comes to everything else! Now enough about him, where’s the other B?” I grin and take out the game of Boggle and go and set it up.

JUSTIN AND CHRIS’S HOUSE - EARLY AFTERNOON

KITCHEN

MOLLY

“That is everything set up, you just need to unpack your stuff…” I look at the sum total of their possessions. “...which will take about five minutes!”

“We’re men, we’re don’t do clutter.” Chris jibes back.

“Uh huh. So when is the rest of your stuff coming from your folks?” I query with a smirk. “Or should that be Daph’s?”

“Don’t you have a brother to tease?” He grouses and starts to unpack the groceries.

“I do, but he’s on the phone, so you will have to do. And stand down, Conan, it’s not Dixon, he's been blocked and besides he’s smiling way too much.” He joins me at the window to watch his best friend use his feet to swing himself. “Did you even see Brian?”

“For all of two minutes, if that. He started to sing, Jay dropped his case...yep, he dropped it...went into his arms, said what they said and left.” He looks across at me. “So, Dixon?”

“Will be going to have a word with him…Mom and I, which is why I need you to find a way to occupy Daph.”

“Oh, I was hoping we could come with you…”

“No, you’ve just got out of one jail, you are not going to a real one!” I laugh and slowly he nods in agreement. “Do you know where they are going for dinner?”

“Nope, he said that he’s surprising him.” We both stare at my phone as Mom’s ringtone blares out. “I mean it, Chris, stay away. We will handle it.”

“Fine. Does he know?”

“Yep. Gotta go.” I check my purse and I have everything I need to get him to understand implicitly, then I tap the window, when Jay looks up I blow him a kiss, and after a kiss on both cheeks for Chris and Daph, I head to meet Mom...I am looking forward to this!

CHRIS

I pull a couple of beers from the pack and head to join Jay. He is looking a little disappointed. “What’s up? He’s not cancelled has he?”

“No, the place he wanted to take me is fully booked and he’s trying to find somewhere else.”

“But you are still going?”

“Yep. And as soon as I know where that is, I shall book another table for you and Daph to nonchalantly turn up at alright?”

“Thanks!” I grin and hand him the beer, we drink in silence and finally I can’t bear it. “So are you going to…”

“I hope so. But not tonight.” He regards me over the top of his bottle. “So you and Daph?”

“What about us?”

“There is something there you can’t deny that.”

“I wasn't going to…” I grin and then it falters slightly as I look him in the eye. “...speaking of something. Do you regret it?”

“The helping hand?” He lifts an eyebrow.

“Yeah. Do you?”

“Nope. You?” I shake my head. “You are going to make her very happy. She’s a bit of a size faghag.”

“If...if something happens between us, I will tell her about it.”

“Good, because if you don’t I will.”

PETERSON/DIXON RESIDENCE

SUNROOM

LINDSAY

“But why haven’t you asked him? This I do not understand, you and I both know that he is a great maestro and he would be perfect for...”

“Lindsay, for the last time, stop harping on about it. You want Justin Taylor to compose the musical score for your great opus and I said I would get him to do it, but he had to graduate first! He is an adult now, and can make his own decisions, he doesn’t need the authority of his parents to sign on the dotted line to do this.”

“Harping?” I repeat sharply. “James, it seems I need to remind you who is who in this marital arrangement and…”

“I am the one with the educational clout and contacts, which you wouldn’t have gotten anywhere near the film school without. And let’s not pretend that this is the greatest film ever to be made! You got some good reviews on a couple of short films that you produced, and you think you are Stephanie Spielberg. I would be more inclined to believe their praise if you weren’t fucking them at the time. Speaking of fucking, how is Shelby?”

“She’s fine, thank you.” I reply stiffly, not ready to admit that she has not been returning my calls since I decided to take another friend to the Awards Dinner instead of her.

“Aww, in the middle of a lover’s tiff are we?” He is gallingly smug. “What have you done this time?”

“At least I have a lover to have a tiff with. She wanted to go to the Awards Dinner, but I am taking someone else.”

“Bit mean, isn’t it? After all, she helped with a lot of the research on your masterpiece didn’t she?”

“Under my guidance she…” I frown as Bethany comes in. “...yes, what is it?”

“Mrs Jennifer Taylor and Miss Molly Taylor are here to see Master Dixon.”

“And who are they?” I demand, and, as she turns to go and enquire, the door is pushed open wider.

“The mother and sister of Justin Taylor!” An angry blonde replies, striding in followed by an equally fiery looking young lady, Bethany swiftly closes the door in the face of my glare. “And we are here to tell you, Master Dicky Dixon, to stay away from Justin!”

JAMES

Oh this is just perfect! “Mrs Taylor, Miss Taylor allow me to…”

“Carnegie fired you, Justin has moved, you are blocked on his old phone and he’s had his number changed.” Miss Taylor steps up so close that I have to move backwards just for some personal space. “We don’t want to have to repeat ourselves without words, now do we?” She reaches in her handbag and there is a small click of something that gives me pause.

“There has been a miscalculation, which I took full responsibility for, on his records, so we agreed to part company, I have another opportunity coming up…” I explain to a furious and humiliated Lindsay, she absolutely hates presenting anything less than perfection to the world! But I love having her humiliated like this!

“You trying to get into my son’s pants all the damn time and then punishing him when he rejected your loathsome advances is not a miscalculation!” She turns to Lindsay. “Put a muzzle and a leash on your husband or we will do it for you! We will find our own way out!”

Two minutes later there is still silence and I am trying very hard not to smile at her fury.

“Fix this, James, or that next opportunity of yours had better come with a house for you to live in!”

“Oh, stop threatening me with money or the house. You will never divorce me. You need a beard and I fit the bill perfectly.” She presses her lips into a thin line. “Now I am going to play golf and work out how to find Justin Taylor without his family knowing.”

“James, his family runs a security firm, he will be watched. Please, from now on let me handle this. You are being led by your very small dick, and it’s causing you to make huge mistakes! I will get Justin Taylor, you stay away!”

“Oh, now-now, Lindsay, you sound positively territorial. Are you sure it’s just his musical talents you are interested in?”

“This joke of yours, like your hair, is wearing thin. You go do your thing, and I will get Justin Taylor onside. They always say never send a boy to do a man's job! Oh, wait...you’re not a fully functioning man though, are you?!”

“It not that I don’t like pussy, I just don’t happen to like yours. My equipment works fine, as you well know having refused to let Melanie have the baby because you wanted to carry. You had a nice little set up there, but of course, you had to be the be-all-and-end-all of everything but the only thing that ended was your relationship with her. How is she doing by the way?”

“We will not speak of that!” She snaps and flounces out of the room, slamming the door hard behind her.

“We will not speak of that!” I mimic chuckling. As I head to the garage I can’t help the frisson of joy I feel at her distress. Oh yes, the great Lindsay Peterson made a colossal mistake, and it cost her the love of a good woman. She wanted a baby and I was happy to provide the necessary sperm, but they both wanted to carry. Lindsay gave her an ultimatum: she carries or they split up. Mel left the next day. That was five years ago, and is still a sore subject, but oh how I enjoy pouring salt into the wound of it!

But I know that look and how craven and determined she is when she gets like that...if she thinks she is getting him before me, she can think again!

MICHAEL’S STORE - AN HOUR LATER

BEN

“So how was your time with Brian?” He asks as he stacks the comics.

“Fine. Are you serious, about the Awards Dinner, I mean?”

“Don’t you two want me to come?” He’s got that spoiling for a fight attitude, and is working my nerves today!

“Not if you are going to be in this mood, no!”

“I am in a mood because, once more, you two cliqued up and left me out of something!”

“We didn’t clique up, you fucked up! Badly!”

“I said I was sorry! I…” He pauses as the door chimes and Emmett comes in. “I have got you on my list of people to call today Emmett.”

“Why?” He leans against the counter and starts to go through his bag.

“I will let you focus on that first, shall I?”

“I listen with my ears, and they are attuned to the pissed off tone you are directing at me. You need to check that at the door.” He says over his shoulder while still hunting through his bag.

“It is polite to face the person who is talking to you.” He sniffs, much like the Dowager in Downton Abbey.

“And I show my back to the person talking at me.” Emmett dumps his bag out and frowns.

“Mercy!” Michael suddenly yells, startling us both.

“Not that you deserve it, but why are you asking for redemption?” Emmett finally looks at him only for Michael to ignore him completely and run out of the store, he looks at me. “Well…”

“No idea.” I sigh, and then I frown at the raised voices of Michael and someone else.

“One minute, it will take one minute!”

“Fine, but let the hell go of my hand, we are not a couple!”

“Ben!” Michael comes in breathlessly. “This is...oh, will you come on!”

“Fuck off!” A terse voice snaps, then there is silence. “Want me to call Aunt Debs so she can tell you where you fucked up...again?!”

“Mercy, will you please come and meet my boyfriend and…”

“Is this a living and breathing human and not something made of Lucite with moveable parts?”

Although I should feel somewhat insulted, I can’t help the smile and neither can Emmett, but that smile turns to astonishment as in comes one of the most extraordinary looking women I have ever seen. Emmett is staring too, but at her feet.

“Eyes.” “Boots.” We say at the same time.

“Pardon?” She frowns those eyes twinkling with amusement.

“You have green eyes.” I can’t help but stare.

“Yep, so what’s bugging you about the boots?” She asks a still gawping Emmett.

“Mercy, this…”

“Not released to general public yet, only one person I know of has a pair and he hasn't worn them yet. Says he can’t get the right...” Slowly he starts to raise his head. “Autumn/Winter three years back Zenga pants. How the hell that Betty Boop buckle works with them I don’t know, but it does! Oh the tee, love that! And the jack...eyes!” He gasps. “They’re real, not contacts…”

“Emmett!” Michael exclaims. “Mer…”

“They’re real, normally I wear contacts as people tend to do what you are both doing…”

“Doing? Oh sorry but...” I begin, but Emmett has taken out his phone and is snapping away.

“Emmett, what the hell are you doing?!” Michael demands, standing in front of her.

“Move out of the way please, Michael, he needs to see this outfit!” Emmett orders, but he holds his ground.

“You have my permission to continue, Emmett, now move, Michael.”

“Thank you, uh, Mercy he called you, correct?” Emmett queries as he waves a steaming Michael out of the way.

“Her full name is Meredith Mercedes, but only her best friend gets to call her Mercy.” Michael boasts.

Another flash of amusement in her eyes. “Call me Mercy, Emmett, and as you are the only other person here, you have to be Ben. You can call me Mercy too. I have to ask...seriously dating? You two? Want me to turn around, Emmett? Need to see the drape of the tee?”

“Drape. You said drape!” Emmett says nodding. “Where do you work that you dress like that and know those words?”

“Thanks!” Michael snorts. “What’s wrong with the idea of us dating?!”

“With me.” A voice calls from the door and we all turn to see an elderly man smiling gently. “And I pay her handsomely enough to dress like that, though it took a special call for the boots.”

“Who?” Emmett has now torn his gaze from Mercy and is looking awestruck at the man...who is looking at him with equal, if not more, admiration.

“George, for goodness sake! There was no need for you to come!”

“I had two kisses blown, you only do that when you are very upset.” He steps in completely, carrying a box. “So I bought you these and wanted to see you do it up close.” He hands her the box and she leans over and kisses him on the cheek.

“You didn’t have to, but I am glad that you did. Now then, let me do the introductions…”

“I am Michael, her best friend.” He states, standing in front of her like some bodyguard. “And you are?”

“George, as you heard me call him. Now…”

“This is Ben, my boyfriend of five years, and this gawping statue is Emmett. So George, how do you know Mercy?”

George is looking at Michael in disbelief. “Well aren’t you rude?! Mercy, I will see you later, perhaps we can do dinner and you can tell me about your plans...at Jernigan’s, and you can have one of these while you are there. Ben and Emmett, it was a pleasure to meet you both. The same…” He looks at Michael. “...cannot be said for you.”

“Hold up, George. Emmett, do you need more pictures, or can I get out of here?”

“Two more, they won’t take long, and George, can I have her first tonight?” He bats his eyes at him. “She needs to meet someone, he won’t believe it unless he sees it. We will be quick, I promise.”

“Who are you talking about?” George again has that look.

“My friend and Ben’s best friend, Brian. He is a complete clothes whore, and she is him in girl form.”

“Brian?” Michael rolls his eyes. “Didn't you see enough of him last night in the store with Ben?”

“I didn’t…”

“So you weren’t at Gucci last night then?! Well where were you two?!” His tone is accusatory as usual. Yeah, he’s right, we did fudge a bit, but this tone and his bitchiness is all I seem to hear these days!

“I don’t...if you had let me finish...work at Gucci, so I wouldn’t have seen them if they were there.”

“You don't believe they were there either?”

“Excuse us! Emmett, here is my card, call me about tonight. Ben, lovely to meet you. George, let’s go, and Michael...you won’t have him for another five minutes if you don't calm down! He is your boyfriend, not chattel.”

“He's not a bull, I know that! I don’t like being lied to, and…” The rest of his sentence dies on his lips as she and George walk out, shutting the door firmly behind them.

“Oh my god!” Emmett squeals and clutches her card to his throat before quickly stuffing everything back in his bag. “I've got to go. Got to see Mari!” He barely pauses to do it up before he is rushing out the door.

“What was that about?” Michael stares at the closed door for a few seconds before turning back to me with his inquisitor expression. “So…”

“Before you begin, remember what Mercy said.” I snap as I feel anger boil in my spine...or maybe it is me forming a backbone. “I am not your chattel, not cattle like you thought she said. I was with my best friend, and no we hadn’t been at Gucci…”

“So you lied?”

“I didn’t lie, I went along. Brian called you, remember, and…”

“Went along is still lying, and you didn't call him out yesterday when he called me a dipshit.”

“You were a dipshit to him, hence the not calling out and going along. And you are being a dipshit still. I shall see you...”

“This evening? It is date night, and I have booked us…”

“Take a mirror for company.” I grab my things and walk out.

MARILYN’S HOUSE OF LOVE AND MAGIC - HALF AN HOUR LATER

MARILYN

I nod slowly and stroke the card. “Green eyes?”

“Yes! Green like an emerald, and when she gave me the card, I felt it, I felt the danger. You said this person was good!”

“And they are. She is not the danger.” He almost faints in relief. “Something that is to do with green is. And green does not necessarily mean colour. But I have to agree with you on the outfit, it would look perfect on him. Now you just need to figure a way to get him to Jernigan’s…”

“Hello!” The answer to our prayers calls out.

“In here, Daphne!” I call back, and she pokes her head through the curtain. “Just on the chaise, my dear, which one gave it to you?”

She nods as she picks up the scarf and puts it in her bag. “They both did.” She smiles. “Thanks for keeping it safe.”

“No problem, any progression on the date front?”

“They are trying to find somewhere after their table fell through.” She sighs crossly and I watch Emmett slowly start to smile. “You guys know anywhere?”

“Yes, a lovely place called Jernigan’s. It is a bar slash…”

“Cigar place! I would love to go there! We’re shadowing them, with Jay’s approval.” She adds quickly.

“Let me see what I can do.” Emmett is already dialling, and ten minutes later two tables have been secured plus a seat by the window.

“Oh, you are just annoying and wonderful! I have to change my outfit now! Bye!”

“So why are we sitting by the window too?” He asks as I lead him to the door.

“Because we have to.” I tell him feeling my heart soar. “Because we have to.”

As I watch my dear soothsayer sashay down the street, all I can feel is happiness amongst the darkness. He has finally found his King.

CHAPTER 5 - THE NIGHT, THE WHINE AND DO THE CLOTHES MAKETH THE DEAL

JUSTIN AND CHRIS’S HOUSE - LATER THAT EVENING

LANDING

CHRIS

“So we come over ten minutes after?”

“Mmm.” Jay nods around a mouthful of toothbrush and then goes to spit.

“So you reckon he is going to bring someone with him?”

“No, I doubt it.” He looks down at his outfit and then turns around.

“Too loose, put the black ones on.” Daph orders as she comes out of my room, eliciting a huff of annoyance. “If you didn’t want an opinion then don't show us your ass!”

“If I drop food on them then you are getting them dry cleaned!” He yells from his room.

“If you drop food in the right place, then Brian will clean them…”

“...with his tongue.” I laugh, and he steps out doing up his pants and trying not to smile. “Button fly.”

“I am not changing again!” He moans as he stomps back into his room. “Well, maybe the shirt to the…”

“Silk and cashmere jumper!” Daph and I say together and smirk at his growling.

DEBS’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

KITCHEN

DEBS

I shoot a quick look at Michael as he is looking peevish, might as well get this over with. “What did you say this time?”

“Me?! He admitted he lied about where they were...no, correction, he played along, it was Brian who lied!”

“Michael…” Vic ever the Devil’s Advocate begins, especially when he wants to watch TV. “...Brian is his best friend. You were spiteful, and…”

“Apologised.” He grinds out. “And then Emmett was so ill mannered when I was speaking to him…”

“Emmett is one of the politest chaps I...well The Avenue knows. Have you noticed, Vic, that in all of this injurious behaviour that…”

“Sis, let’s just let him vent and be on his way.” He mutters while Michael goes to get his phone.

“And date night is cancelled, not by me, but by him! I have a good mind to just go out anyway!”

“Why don’t you?!” Vic asks, a little too enthusiastically, so I jab him in his side and he heads to the lounge. “I mean, you don’t want to stay in moping!”

“That’s a good idea, actually, and I can see Mercy too.”

“Mercy?” Vic queries and stops walking so I start to reach for my phone slowly and discreetly.

“Yeah, she’s got a dinner thing with some old guy. She works with him, he's not her boyfriend or anything of course. Now where did the fuck he say they were going?” His face twists in concentration. “She can smoke there…” He tisks in disgust. “Can’t stand the smell, and she’s now on cigars! And Ben smoked one with him…”

“Cigars?” I give Vic a keen look as I just know he’s going to let the cat out of the bag. “There’s Jernigan’s, or…”

“That’s it! Thanks, Uncle Vic! I will go there, let me grab a quick shower, and…”

“Here? You don’t have clothes to change into.” I scramble, and Vic, as he realises what he has done, discreetly waves his phone and backs out.

GARDEN - TWO MINUTES LATER

VIC

“YOU IDIOT!” I curse myself and scroll down to find her number. “What the hell did I save it under?!” I shake my head to jog my memory. “Ah, yes, Emerald Stone.” Taking a quick look in the window and grimacing as Debs is having trouble getting the barnacle that is my nephew to leave. “Hey, sweetheart, I have blabbed to someone…”

OUTSIDE BRIAN’S LOFT - TEN MINUTES LATER

BRIAN

“You are the one who wants to check him out!” I laugh into the phone as I head down the street. “Okay, okay. Look, once you say hello, go jerk off, alright?!” I laugh harder as he hangs up without saying goodbye.

“Brian!” I snicker again and wait for Emmett to catch me up, and, as is his want, immediately he links arms with me. “Well, fancy meeting you here! Going my way?”

“No, I am not going your way, Honey...Emmett,” I side eye him as he starts to look me up and down. “You want me to go and change, don’t you?”

“Maybe the pants.” He twists his lip pleadingly. “Just imagine you’re getting ready for a fuckfest and undress that fast!”

“Shitkicker.” I mutter, and turn back. “Which pair?!” I yell.

“Dark blue suede!” He calls back, and then runs to catch me up. “Did you see the photos?”

“What photos?” I ask as I open the door and let us in, smiling as he immediately swoops to the cart and takes the Beam and two glasses to the bedroom with him.

“Oh good!” He grins, and I am once again at a loss at some of his thought processes. He may be one of the best, correction is the best dresser in Pennsylvania, but he is a scatterbrain sometimes! But...and it is a very grateful but...after I got shot and was in recovery, he was one of the first to come to see me, and the first thing he did was redo my wardrobe, saying that I am emerging as a new butterfly. I love the guy so much, but of course I would never tell him that! And that’s one of the reasons I no longer call him Honeycutt, he absolutely hates it!

“So...here.” He hands me a glass. “Blue pants, chop-chop.” I get changed into them and wait, because I know him. “The green and blue tee and that jacket. There, done!”

I survey myself in the mirror and he rests his chin smugly on my shoulder. “It’s lucky you are so tall, I would hate to have to crow from lower down...whatever would people think?!”

“Come on, let’s go and...now what?” He is holding out his hand, and, with a sigh, I hand it over.

“Thank you.” He beams, pocketing my phone. “I take it Benjamin is gracing us with his presence?”

“Yep, you going to hang around too, or is there a chance I could have this date alone?”

“Very briefly. You need to in the flesh this, I will make sure that Ben comes with me, and you and your hero can be as one as you should be.”

JERNIGAN’S - AN HOUR LATER

GEORGE

I settle down to people watch. At my age, the best I can do is watch the beautiful people flit by. And, speaking of beautiful, my mind goes back to Emmett, those twinkly eyes and cute smile...but he’s much too young for me!

“George? It is George, isn’t it?” I look up and smile at Ben. “I’m…”

“Ben. Yes, I remember, I am not totally infirm.”

“Oh, I didn’t mean...!” He holds up his hands in apology, but I smile and pat the seat.

“I am, however, one for pulling a leg. Now, what would you like to drink?”

“What are you having?” He takes a seat with a look of relief.

“Blueberry martini. Mercy turned me on to it.” I signal the barman and he nods. “She also turned me into this, in fact, she insisted that I wear it. Personally, I think I’m too old.” He looks at the smoker’s jacket in dark green that she had bought for me when she got here and shakes his head. “Now, do not indulge the ego of an older man. Tell me the truth.”

“You look great in it. It’s a good colour on…”

“Ben! What are you doing here?” I think both our hearts sink as the rude runt from earlier strides up to the table and sits down without so much as a bye or leave! “Hello. Remember me?”

“Yes, and you have not improved in your absence.”

“Will the gentlemen be joining you, sirs?”

“Yes, I will.” He replies, and peers at the drink. “One of those, please, and a beer as well.”

“Good god!” Ben suddenly says, and is staring at the door. “He is a very lucky man!”

I look up and then my heart stops as it is him! I had no idea he would be here!

“Who is?” Michael looks over his shoulder. “Who the hell is that?! I mean, Ben, I am here you know?!”

CHRIS

I turn Jay back around as he starts to retreat. “You are here now, stop it!”

“I said we should meet outside!” He grumbles as we force him towards the bar, and almost everyone tracks his movements.

“And stop pulling!” Daph swats his hand as, yet again, he tugs at the jumper to make it baggier.

As we make our way to the bar, we look around. Now that everyone has stopped gawking at Jay, they go about their business. I groan as my eyes alight on the idiot from the diner, and he glares back at me. I stare back until the waiter gets between me and him, thereby giving him a reason to concede, judging by the way his eye was twitching!

“This is really nice!” Daph signals the barman and he’s over in a flash but promptly asks Jay what he wants.

“You to serve my friend who signalled you.” He replies coolly, and there is a snicker behind us.

“Feisty little devil, aren’t you?”

I watch Jay’s Adam’s apple bob, and then he starts to smile as he looks in the mirror above the bar. “That depends…”

“Before you finish, why not turn around and say hi?”

Daph and I look at each other as a pair of hands rest on either side of him and he slowly turns around, which means we can as well. And oh my goodness...from a purely aesthetic point of view - oh hell yeah!

“Hi.” Justin says quietly, his eyes fixed on the mouth of the guy.

“Hi.” He replies and then kisses him...well when I say kisses him, I mean drains all rational thought or feeling, other than that one from his body. Two minutes later there is a soft pop as they part lips and he waggles his eyebrows. “Been waiting long?”

“Four years.” Justin replies and leans against him. “Oh, sorry man…”

“Obie Trice

Real name no gimmicks

Two trailer park girls go round the outside,

Round the outside, round the outside

Two trailer park girls go round the outside,

Round the outside, round the outside

Guess who's back, back again

Shady's back, tell a friend

Guess who's back, guess who's back?

Guess who's back, guess who's back?...”

Blaring out halts whatever he was going to say as a fierce car pulls up outside the restaurant and we stare, at the car and the driver. “You’re here!” Emmett squeals, and then grabs her hand and pulls her in our direction. “Avec moi tout suite!”

“Good God!” Justin gasps. “She is…”

“...wearing my boots! Ooh and beautiful!” Brian exclaims looking at her feet. “In fact, she is wearing my entire...Emmett! Give me my phone!” Emmett grins and hands it over. “You bastard! Hi, I’m Brian, and this is…”

“Mercy, what a surprise!” The idiot interrupts, and, judging by that expression, she is not impressed.

“It is not. You knew I would be here meeting George, so don’t be all skippy-la-kangafool!”

“Kangafool!” Justin laughs. “Hi, I’m…”

“Justin Taylor. Yeah, I know. I’ve been looking for you...” Immediately we are all on our guard, and Brian pulls Justin closer to him. “Stand yourselves down. Let’s go and sit with George, who has been looking for you, Brian. We are killing two birds with one stone it seems. No, first, let’s order some drinks and then go outside. It’s a nice evening. George, bring the lovely non-Lucite Ben with you! He can keep his boyfriend entertained while we chat.”

You drew the short straw there, Ben!” I can’t help but jibe, and the idiot glares at me and then Ben, who says nothing in contradiction.

CIGAR GARDEN - FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER

MERCY

I lead the bewildered group to the table I had spotted and wait for them to get settled. “Do you have dinner reservations? Or can I take my time to savour three things: your company, the cigar and the…” Sighing I trail off. “...okay potted history, Irish redhead mother, hence the green eyes and freckles and a Jamaican father, hence the rest of my colouring and lips. So yeah, they are both real. Anything else?”

“You missed out about me being your best friend. And what do you two want with those two?” Michael annoys me again...seriously, how does he not see that his lack of support still fucking hurts, and he has to make good on that before he runs his crapatattrap?!

Anybody else, have anything to ask about my physicality before I continue?”

“You need to answer my question first, Mercy.” Michael prompts, and starts to drum the table.

“Michael, can you stop that?” Ben orders. “It’s annoying and rude.”

“Much like him.” The other blonde smirks, and I decide I like him…first for the remark, and second, because he got Michael to stop!

“And you are?”

“Chris Hobbs, and this is Daphne Chanders, we’re his best friends.”

“Call me Daph.” She grins at me.

“She’s not wired that way.” Michael interjects...a-frigging-gain!

“Neither am I. I was being friendly. You can call me Miss Chanders. In fact, I would prefer it if you didn't speak to me at all.”

“You brought your best friends on a date with you? How pathetic! How old are you?!” Michael goads Justin and looks around the table for backing, which like him, he finds lacking.

“You said George wanted Brian.” Emmett brings us back to the point of this hastily arranged, and irksome in patches, gathering. “Why?”

“First, I am sorry for what happened to you. Are you back to robust health?” George pats Brian’s hand, much to his surprise.

“Uh, yeah, getting there. But…”

“Is it your functionality?” George queries gently.

“No, he can still fuck, trust me on that! He’s become even more of a Stud instead of less of one!” Michael chuckles, and again he’s in the minority.

“Ignore him.” Brian smiles at George. “Drives the dipshit batshit crazy.”

“I shall remember that, should I, once more, have the disappointment of being in his unamusing presence.” George remarks, and Michael grimaces as everyone laughs at him. “But, back to my question, can you still draw, Mr Kinney?”

“Yes, that is the one thing I worked so fucking hard to get back was my ability to…” He pauses and then stares hard at George. “...I know you. It’s really dim, like a fog-filled room, but I know you.”

“Yes, yes, you do. Will it be counterproductive to prompt or does it have to come back in its own time?”

“Give me a clue.” Brian nods slowly.

“You sure?” Emmett asks, and I catch the look that George gives him.

“Yeah, I’m sure. George?”

“I am George Schickel of Schickel Films,  and…”

“You are kidding me?!” Justin exclaims. “I thought I recognised you! I have watched every movie you have ever produced, directed or financed!”

“Every one of them? Your parents must be very liberal minded!” George titters, and Justin blushes.

“They didn’t know I watched them before, admittedly. It was only after I came out that Dad watched one with me, and…”

“What?!” Chris and Daphne exclaim, and I can’t help but laugh.

“He wanted to understand it, so…” Justin sighs. “...most embarrassing two hours of my life!”

“Oh, don’t feel too bad, at least your Mother didn’t offer to lend you her sterilised vibrator.” I remark, and take a sip of my drink, while horrified expressions wash over people’s faces. “No, I am not kidding. Bless her, she thought I was working too hard.”

“What the hell were you working on?!” Emmett splutters between chuckling.

“I was 14 at the time, studying for my exams.” I look around the table and everyone is smiling; well, almost everyone. “Anyone else want to share something?”

“No!” ls the universal answer.

“So, back to you, George, and your gentle walk down memory lane.”

“Mercedes, that was crass!” Michael exclaims, and looks at me in such a censorious manner I am sorely tempted to stick the cigar I am about to light up his ass, glowing end first!

“Be quiet.” Daph orders...and I signal for another drink for her and then light my cigar.

“What’s that?” Brian sniffs appreciatively. “I haven’t smelt that in a long time.”

“Partagas Pet…”

“Petit corona especiale. Jesus.” Brian sighs and looks longingly at it.

“Have five, want one?” I tap the box and he pounces with relish.

“You ever smoked a cigar, Justin?” He asks him as he expertly unwraps it and clips the end. He shakes his head, mesmerised by those long fingers. “Actually, can I have the Le Flor for him? I think I spotted one in there.” I nod then we swap over and I slide him across the lighter. “Where did you get that?”

“Cartier. And I didn’t, it was a gift.” I take it swiftly off him and he grins.

“Didn’t I say? Didn’t I say, Ben, she’s him in girl form!” Emmett almost squeezes the air out of Ben, who just smiles. “So, are we all going to smoke?”

“Can we?!” Daph exclaims, eyeing the box keenly.

“Uh, yes but not these, only a proper connoisseur or a neophyte get these beauties, let me get a box for the table.”

“I don’t want one. You know I don’t like the smell of cigarettes, let alone cigar smoke, I have a very delicate chest.” Michael forces out a few coughs.

“So go inside then!” A tall man sneers, and then smiles at me.

“Can you excuse me a moment, I need to go and check if there is a table inside for the...” He does a headcount. “...six of us.” He glowers at the guy before striding off.

“Six how does he make it six?” I frown as Ben sighs crossly and I just shake my head. “Did you want...it's Caleb isn't it?”

“Yes and lord have Mercy, you really do have the most incredible eyes.”

“Thanks. Again.” I mutter, shifting under his scrutiny, much to George’s amusement. “Well, I’ll see you around.”

“I hope so.” He declares, and I try not to watch him walk away...I get busted in seconds!

“Back to Brian.” I challenge George to push that button...he holds up a hand.

“So you can...would you like to instruct him in the fine art of cigar smoking first?”

“Sorry, no, it’s okay, I can show him later. How much for the cigar?” He asks me as he puts it carefully away, but I shake my head. “Yes, I can still draw.” Again he tries to reach for a memory. “A little help, it is so frustrating when you can almost see…” George goes to speak but Ben squeezes his arm. “...did, did you contact me or something like that? I have a feeling we spoke, or at least we saw each other.”

“We did. I am going to produce a film about a gay superhero called…”

“Rage.” Brian whispers. “It was Rage, wasn't it?”

“Yes it was.” George almost looks like he’s going to cry and accepts the handkerchief from Emmett. “We were at the beginning of negotiations when…”

“He saved my life.” He nods at Justin who looks at his hands and Daph and Chris look so proud. “He stayed with me, and...the rest is history.”

“Excuse me, the cigars?” The waiter interrupts politely. “Who shall?”

“Brian, of course. That’s this guy.” Michael asserts as he comes back. “Now why don’t you and…”

“Do you mind, Brian?” He waves at me to continue, so I take the box then lick my finger and hold it up in the air. “I think that we should move to that table, wind is not right. That would be okay, wouldn't it?” The waiter nods and signals a colleague to help move us. “Before we sit, I think Emmett and George should be next to each other…”

“What for?” George squirms.

“That way you can both look properly instead of surreptitiously.” I chuckle at the speed that Emmett indicates that Chris should move out of his way. “So then it is Chris next to Daph, Ben next to me...you bumsuck don’t you?”

“Most gay men do.” He laughs, getting yet another prudish look from Michael. “I will concede to the connoisseurs of the table and take their leads.”

“Good, Luci-blue.” I tease him, and Michael fumes. “So Brian next to George, and Justin opposite, so you can watch and follow. Chris and Daph next to Justin, and that puts you at the end, Michael, the bottom of the table...actually, Brian, you should swap with me, you be the top.”

“As I should be.” He grins, and we swap so that he and Ben are sitting next to each other and Michael sounds like a meat grinder.

“So, shall we wrap this up and then teach them how we do?” I smirk at Brian who tilts his head in permission. “Okay, so George...ahem, George, stop blue gazing and listen to what I am saying! George wants to restart Rage again, and…”

“Restart? Why did you stop?” Daph asks.

“Because he got shot.” George sighs. “There was only going to be one person to promote the film, and that was going to be my ang...oh that smells exquisite!” He declares as I start to prep the cigars for everyone. “Sorry, I digress, I was going to start with promotion before I asked him to be the AD on it instead.”

“AD? Sorry, Mercy, can you let him finish before you do that?” Chris pleads as his neck cricks loudly.

“AD as in artistic director, not assistant director. I want you to draw him, bring him to life.” George looks at a poleaxed-paused-with-cigar-to-mouth Brian. “I am serious, this is what the meeting was going to be about.”

“And he wants you.” I point at Justin. “But not as much as I want you.”

“Uh…”

“What are you doing for the summer?”

“Nothing much. Why?”

“What if I could make it so that your two...sorry, now three, passions are indulged?”

“My passions? You don’t know me! Well I don’t think you do.”

“I know everything about you, which makes you the guy I want. As for your passions...music, film and now...him.” I point to Brian. “So what if I could arrange for you to indulge in all three?”

“How?”

“He draws Rage and you write the music?”

“Are you serious?!” Justin looks incredulous.

“Yes. So are you two in or not?” I hold the Cartier lighter in front of Brian. “Take it, consider it a downpayment, and…” I gesture to my outfit. “...I have to look good, these pants can’t be got anywhere…” He looks at Emmett who nods ruefully. “...unless you say yes. And a pair will be delivered...”

“Pants, tee and the jacket?”

The corner of my mouth lifts and I signal my chap. He’s quickly over with a box, but before Brian can get to it Emmett intercepts. “Clear a space, people!” He orders, and room is quickly made. “Oh...oh my.” He breathes as he pulls out the pants. “Moleskin, they are moleskin! If he doesn’t say yes, can I have them?!”

“I love this!” Justin cries, out taking out the tee. “Can I borrow it?” He bats his eyes at him.

“Yes, and yes, but nobody is wearing the jacket first but me!” He reaches across for the lighter. “You have no idea what you have signed up for!”

“As long as we have fun finding out, tis all good in my hood!” I laugh, and hand it to him. He looks at Emmett and the yet to be out of his hands pants, then back at me. “Like I said, all good in my hood.” I nod and smile.

CHAPTER 6 - A FRIENDSHIP, A LESSON IN CIGARS AND DINING IN GUCCI

CHAPTER 7 - GROWING AND GROANING

BEN

I don’t think I have ever seen Michael look so cowed or a person look at him like that.

“Now back to the matter in hand.” Mercy turns to Emmett who is looking stunned and impressed. “You are sure you will be able to?”

“Yes, but before we discuss semantics...raasclart?”

“Jamaican for asswipe.” Her face darkens briefly before she smirks. “Christ, Daph, whosoever is your man, he must be very happy with your mouth action.”

“Well he will be once that starts.” Emmett looks pointedly at Chris who looks heavensward then does glance at Daph. then blinks for a few seconds. “But back to you, worry not it will be fine. The only petit-cris is going to be getting the…”

He has now joined us in the gawking as Chris takes the cigar from Daph, tangles his fingers in her hair and kisses her. I am not sure how long he’s been waiting to do that but judging by the depth of the kiss it has been a while!

“Pass me their cigars.” Mercy calls out quietly, and when she has them she puts them out then back in their tubes. She starts to chuckle at their increasing intensity. “At the risk of sounding prim, guys, take that home!” The pop as they part makes us all, well almost all, of us smile.

“Staying to eat food or going home and eat each other?” I snicker and wait for the inevitable reprimand and am surprised when it doesn’t come.

“We're going.” Chris declares as he stands, then looks at Michael. “Are you convinced now that I am not interested in Ben?”

“I never said you were!” Michael objects, then looks round the room. “What? I never said he was interested in Ben. I told him to stop staring at him, which he was doing.”

“Before you two go, can I have your numbers?” Emmett hands over his phone. “I will call you to sort out appointments.” After they do that and leave, he looks Michael up and down for a few long seconds. “What are you going to wear, and where are you going sit?”

“To the dinner? I will hire a suit. As for where I am sitting, you’d need to check with Mercy or Brian.”

“Why me?” Mercy frowns. “I am not going with you.”

“I know.” He gives an ingratiating smile. “But you can speak to your host and get me on your table. I’ve checked all tables seat 8, so with you and your friend and George that leaves plenty of space.”

“No it doesn’t. The table is full.” Emmett has been counting on his fingers.

“How?” Michael also starts to count. “There is a space left, me, Ben, George, Mercy, her guest and you. Oh I see, Brian and Justin are on the table too, is that what you mean?”

“No, he means there is no you. I was given a table that I have now filled. If you go, you would be in the lottery tables anyway.”

“Lottery tables?” He frowns. “I don’t understand.”

“The public tickets are on a first come first gets basis, there is a very good chance you won't get one, let alone two. And besides, didn’t you hear me say that Daph and Chris are going to sit on my table? Don‘t say anything, I have not had this fucking thing planned only for you to try and torpedo your way in and fuck it up.”

“What do you mean?” Emmett looks wary but then starts to smile. “You got him invited didn’t you?”

“Yes, well I got him invited, but it was her idea.” George looks so proud.

“So I can't go?” He broods.

“Nope. Such a terrible shame said nobody ever.” George crows, and he and Emmett clink cigars.

“So what are we going to do instead then, Ben?”

“Instead? What do you mean? I am still going.” He looks as stunned to hear that as I feel having said it!

“How? Brian is taking Justin, so…”

“He is my guest now.” George rescues me for which I almost kiss him!

“I…” He begins, but stops as Mercy slowly stands up and starts to gather her things. “Are you leaving?”

“Yep. I have a headache.”

“You want me to drop you off?” George too stands looking concerned. She gives a small smile and rubs the back of her head. “Okay. Will you call when you get home?”

“I will, I promise. Bye everyone. Emmett, I will call you tomorrow about five.”

“Mercy, let’s share a cab. I'm a bit bunged up after all that smoke. Maybe your headache was caused by that too?”

“No to the cab and the smoke. I am positive that you are the cause.” She slips on her sunglasses and walks out, slamming the door after her.

“If you don’t watch yourself, Michael, she’s going to close the door on your friendship like that.” Emmett advises him and then follows her out.

“Ben, I will see you on Thursday.” George and I shake hands and he too leaves.

“What is happening on Thursday, and when did you arrange for a meeting with George?” He demands, standing quickly at the same time as pulling on his jacket, I just stare at him. “Ben, I’ve got to catch up with George so that I can go to Mercy’s. So what and when?”

“Why are you going to see her? Whatever, your reasoning, forget it, she’s got a headache and you’re the cause.”

“That’s the thing with Mercy, nobody gets her sense of humour apart from me.” He sighs dramatically. “I have to go. Talk later, yeah?” He blows me a kiss and rushes out as if the last 15 minutes or so haven’t happened!

JUSTIN AND CHRIS’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

STUDY

JUSTIN

I am pinned to the desk and we’re kissing passionately. We have been kissing like this ever since he dropped me off. The actuality was that I leaned over to kiss him goodbye, which started off chaste enough but then began to intensify, and here we are.

“I really do have to go.” He murmurs into my ear, his breath is so hot and his voice filled with such longing that I knead his ass and roll my hips.

“Don’t you want to come first?” I tease him.

“Behave, you little nymph. I am trying very hard…”

“Yes, you are very hard…”

“To be a gentlemen.” He continues his eyes aglow with lust.

“You really don’t have to be, I would be very happy if you were ungentlemanly with me.”

“And I want to be...as you can tell...but not tonight.” He starts to peel himself off me, but then leans back down to kiss some more. “But it will be soon. Just name the day, and…”

“I will hold you to that. And then hold you in my hot wet mouth, and…”

“Have you…done anything while you were waiting?”

“Yep, I've given head, done handjobs and rimmed, given not received with the last one. What about you?”

“Fucked a lot, safely, but never bottomed. Came close, but then it just didn't feel right., definitely rimmed, fingered and figged once...never again!”

“Yeah, watching that particular scene with my dad killed any interest I had in it.” I search his face for a few seconds, “You really are rather gorgeous.”

“And you are rather beautiful. Maybe we should open a firm called Gorgeous and Beautiful, only those who match that description need apply.”

“Hmm. That might open the narcissist floodgates. Speaking of narcissists, what is the deal with you and Michael?” I gape at him as his dick deflates. “That did not just happen?!”

“He has that effect on most men.” He responds, totally nonplussed.

“Except Ben.” I point out giving him a gentle shove. “Since you’re down, we might as well get up.”

“I have no idea why I am not offended by that, but I’m not.” He slides off and pulls me up to stand. “I don’t think he’s good enough for Ben. He’s jealous of our friendship, and feels threatened by me. It also doesn’t help that I call him out on his bullshit all the time, and the only way he can retaliate is by bringing up me almost getting killed or that I fuck a lot, both of which immediately have Ben on my side.”

“I see. Have you and Ben ever…”

“Nope. So when was it?”

“When was what?”

“You and Chris.” He replies with such surety that I don’t try to deny it.

“About a year ago. He was curious, and I was…”

“Horny?”

“Yeah, and sober; we both got what we needed.”

“So I have nothing to worry about with him?”

“I have no intentions towards Chris. You, on the other hand, should worry about your virtue…”

“As should you worry about yours.” He exhales and looks to the ceiling. “I have got to go, I have a filthy phone call to make.”

“Why don’t you go next door and do it?” I try again to keep him here a little bit longer.

“I have a seven o’cock...o’clock meeting and I need to be focused.”

“How long will it take you to get home?”

“Forty minutes, traffic permitting.”

“That long!” I grumble.

“Stop pouting or I won’t call at all. Go have a shower in 15 minutes, I want you nice and clean before I make you sweat.”

“Oh alright, this had better be worth it.” I challenge him.

“I am an advertising genius. Planting of subliminal images are my forte. It will be worth the wait.”

Ten minutes later, I am heading upstairs having received a text from Chris to say that he and Daph are in the middle of a massive make-out session and won’t be back until the morning!

“Seriously, if he doesn’t make me cum tonight I will be pissed!”

MERCY’S RESIDENCE - 30 MINUTES LATER

MASTER BEDROOM

MERCY

My headache started to ease off the further away I got from Michael! I am so looking forward to the dinner for two reasons; one, because Mel is coming. I have the last dance as it were with her before she winds down. I am not sure why she is taking her leave now, but that’s what they want. I do concede that the cut and thrust of the filmmaking business is very stressful, and the last thing she needs is stress. But the other reason I am looking forward to the dinner is because Michael won’t be there. I have made sure of it. I told him to behave and he didn’t, so he’s been blackballed.

I sigh and reach for my ringing phone and it’s Aunt Debs. She pauses as I pick up, which only means this is a Michael thing. “Let me guess. He’s there and is asking for my number?”

“Yes, how did you know?”

“Like I said, took a guess. Has he stopped coughing then?”

“Coughing? Why would you be coughing, Michael? Yes, it’s Mercy. Well, Michael, if you are so sure that she wants you to have her number, why didn’t you ask her when you saw her instead of coming around here to ask me?!”

“Give him the number.”

“She has her...give? Did you say give?”

“Yeah. How else am I going to send him to voicemail if I don’t know his number?”

“Good point. Okay sweetheart, will we see you at the weekend?”

“Most likely. I’m going to be busy over the next couple of days, have some other clients to lock down.”

“Don’t work too hard and definitely come round on Sunday. No, Michael, you can’t talk to her now, she’s going to get some rest. She said you can have her number and that’s all you are getting tonight. Hang up, Mercy.”

She doesn’t need to tell me twice!

CAR OUTSIDE THE LOFT - 10 MINUTES LATER

HUNTER

“Hey, how you doing, Mrs T?” I stretch a bit as I am a bit too lanky for this car. “Nothing much to report, he’s just got home and is in safely. Oh, there is a huge awards dinner next week he’s taking him to, so you’d need me to be...hang on, Mrs T, can I call you back? I’ve just seen someone I know. No, a good guy. Bye.”

I glance quickly up at the loft and he’s resting against the window on the phone, with a smirk on his face. I look across the street again, it is him and he is watching the loft. As soon as he sees my approach he grins.

“Dude, what the hey?!” He exclaims, and we man-hug. “How have you been?!”

“Great, and you?!” I check out my friend and fellow apprentice Caleb.

“Perfect, just perfect. What you doing here? Is it business or pleasure?”

When I point to the loft and he frowns. “A bit of both. You?”

“More business, though hoping for some pleasure along the way.” He rubs his chin. “Why are you watching him?”

“Favour for my boss, Mrs T. She just wants to check there is no messing with this guy.”

“Who is Mrs T and why would she want him checked out?

“Jennifer Taylor, yeah she of Taylor Reconnaissance, her son is a fan, and what Justin wants Justin gets.”

“You don’t sound impressed.” I follow his lean against the car and we both watch the loft, he has moved to the other window, but has his back to us.

“He’s okay, just a bit too spoiled for my liking. Older brother, but babied to hell and back. Why are you on him?”

“Standard protection, he doesn’t know. First it was just a job, but I've become friends with them, including Brian. I've been on him since he got discharged. I make a good receptionist…” He waits for me to stop chuckling at his eye batting. “...you can lay off, he’s a good guy and so are those around him. Well mostly.”

“Who do I need to watch then?” I yawn as it has been a long day and I could really do with going to bed!

“Not watch but be aware of. Michael Novotny. He just irritates everyone, especially Brian, but he has actually come in handy…”

“Shit!” Is bellowed out and he bends down; alarmed, I start to cross the road but Caleb stops me.

“Why not?”

“Phone sex with Justin. Heard him say he would call him when he got home.”

“Fair enough.” I yawn and stretch again. We both smirk as Brian makes his way slightly unsteadily to the other side of the loft and the lights are switched off. “I am going to take his lead and go to bed too. Are you going to be there at the dinner?”

“No, it would look too odd. I’m sending back up though.”

“Alright, on that note, see you around for a beer next week?” I bump his shoulder.

“Yeah, and you can tell me all about her.”

“Who?”

“Oh you’ll know her when you see her.” He sighs before, with one last hug, we go our separate ways.

JUSTIN AND CHRIS’S HOUSE

JUSTIN’S BEDROOM

JUSTIN

I lie there staring at the ceiling, my heart is starting to slow and my vision, well in my eyes anyway, is beginning to clear. The imagine in my head, now that is completely different. When he was describing what he was going to do with his tongue to my sweet tight looking ass, I almost forgot to breathe! Slowly I look around as I can hear something, I find the source of the noise; it is Brian laughingly calling my name. I reach for my phone then clear my throat. “Oh so worth it.” I look down at my cum covered belly and thighs. “Need...what?” I goggle and sit bolt upright. “...seriously, you can do that to me again?! Wait, let me get to the bathroom!” I trot as fast as my wobbly legs can go!

CHAPTER 8 - THE POINT IS TO GET SELF OUT OF A HOLE...NOT BE AN ASSHOLE

MICHAEL’S HOUSE - TWO DAYS LATER

KITCHEN

BEN

“Michael, for the last time, yes I am still going to the dinner! I would always have been going to the dinner without you!”

“But that was with Brian, this is a new arrangement, which you should refuse.”

“No, and once again your petulance and jealousy has ruined a perfectly good day!”

“I am not…”

“This has nothing to do with me going with George, this is because I am going to be spending time with Mercy and you’re not!”

“What rot!”

“So you haven't been trying to get hold of her for the last two days?”

“I am calling her for Ma and Uncle Vic, just to make sure she’s still coming on Sunday.”

“She is.”

“How do you know that?” He eyes me suspiciously.

“Spoke to her yesterday, and before you give yourself an aneurysm or agitate your ulcer, she gave me and Brian her number when we first met her.”

“No, she gave it to Emmett, I was there when she did that.”

“But not when she gave us hers. That was before you came in.”

He doesn’t say anything, just throws his coffee in the sink and marches upstairs, but I know Michael, this will be revisited at another point. I take the opportunity to grab my jacket and walk out. As I head to the car, I once again try and figure out why his possessiveness has spiked up again so much. It started, the first time, during our second year, when he first met Brian, but they had a talk and by that I mean Brian tore into him after he would not let us, once again, have a night out without him…

Start of flashback

BEN’S HOUSE - FOUR YEARS AGO

LOUNGE

BEN

“You almost done?!” I yell, then look at my watch, and smile, I don’t know why I am bothering, he hasn’t even gotten into the shower yet, and I am proved right when he starts to come down the stairs.

“Beer?” He calls out as he heads to the kitchen.

“Yes, I would like one of my beers please.” I go to join him and come to a surprised halt as he is wearing just a towel. “Have you had a shower?”

“Mmm.” He chugs back on his beer then indicates his back and turns around. I notice the droplets and at first don't get what he is saying. “Can you oil my back?”

“Oh.” I blow on my hands then start to rub the oil in and stop. “Seriously, you like this?” I sniff my hands and recoil slightly. “It smells better on you, you can have it if…”

“Already packed it.” He admits with a shrug. “Where’d you get it?”

“I gave it to him!” Michael’s angry whine startles us both. “What the hell are you two doing?!”

“Getting ready to go out.” Brian sips his beer, but I can feel his anger starting to mount. “What are you doing here?”

“I was calling you, Ben, to…”

“For the love all things Marilyn! No, you can’t come with us!” Brian steps towards him then Michael gasps as I am left holding his towel. “Admiring the view?” He drawls. “This is all the taking it in you will get. I am going to get dressed. Towel please.” I hand it to him and he puts it over his shoulder and swaggers out.

“He did that on purpose!” Michael rails, and punches his hips.

“No I didn’t, and neither did Ben!” Brian comes back in, still with the towel on his shoulder, and grabs his beer, but it is almost empty so he takes mine then pauses as he raises it to his mouth. “Did you know he was coming?” I put my hands up. “Going to take that as a no, so my question is what the hell are you doing letting yourself in without clearing it with Ben first?!”

“I don’t have to...can you cover yourself up?!”

“You’re the only one bothered...and the one staring.” He arches an eyebrow and drinks some more beer while watching Michael until he looks away. “Seriously, if he comes, I don’t. Well, I will at some point, but you won't be my wingman.”

I close my eyes, they have never got on. I knew they wouldn't. It was one of the reasons, I waited for so long to introduce them. They are like oil and water, but I love them both very much.

“Michael. You’re not coming. This is mine and Brian’s night, we discussed this…”

“Ben. I am…”

“Behaving like a jailer, not my boyfriend of over a year!” I crack my knuckles.

“Don’t do that! You know it makes me cringe!”

“And you know not to just let yourself into my house! Now go home and think about what you have...Brian!” I snort before I try and fail not to snigger.

“What were you doing?!” He demands, turning to face him. “Well?”

“I am going to get changed.” He drains the rest of the beer, puts the bottle on the counter, then strides upstairs.

“What was he doing?”

”You wouldn't like it. Go home, Michael.” I recycle the empties and open the front door.

“One minute, Michael!” Brian calls out and comes back downstairs holding a bottle. “Take this with you, he doesn’t like it and now neither do I. I’m going to have another shower, need to wash that stank off me.”

“That was so rude!” Michael hisses. “You and I are going to have a full and frank discussion about your friendship with Brian and whether or not it can continue while you and I are together!” He yanks the door shut behind him and I am standing in silence for a few seconds.

I am nudged out of my stupor by Brian handing me his phone. “What’s it under?”

“Fucksmith of course. Gives good head, should you be needing relief after your little chat with the Warden.”

NEXT DAY - EARLY AFTERNOON

I open the door and Michael is looking out of breath and furious. “Problem?”

“Something is wrong with the locks.” He pants. “What’s happened?”

“You coming in unannounced yesterday happened, so I changed them. No, you don't get a key until I…”

“You are joking, surely! I. Am. Your. Boyfriend!”

“But only just.” Brian calls out as he collects his bag from the foot of the stairs. “Ben, we will see you next weekend. Don’t worry, Michael, I am talking about Ted. He will be there to protect Ben’s virtue from my dick’s voracity. Ciao.”

“Brian! Want your Double K?”

“Double K?” They both ask, one looking slightly more pleased by the other, but sometimes only a sharp winding jab will do.

“Your kiss goodbye and keys.” I pull them out of my pocket and wave them at him. “Come and get them.”

“His…” Michael manages to sound a combination of strained and furious, much like an angry mouse!

“With pleasure, and you can collect your Double K next week. I am sure Ted won’t mind watching. Now pucker up, my dear sweet and very sexy best friend.”

I know that I am storing up trouble for myself, but last night we wasted two hours getting the locksmith over and that ate into our time together. I can actually feel the anger coursing through Michael’s body as Brian pulls me closer and licks his lips. “Ready?”

“Always.”

“Stop that immediately! You have made your fucking point!”

“If we had made our point…” Brian snarls over his shoulder without letting go of me. “...and you took it on board, we would not be doing this. Not that I mind doing this, of course, I do like to snuggle.”

“One day, Brian, your behaviour is going to get you killed!” Michael screams.

“We’re done.” I hold tightly onto Brian as he has said one more odious remark from Michael and he will introduce his fist to his face. “Unless of course, you want me to let him go.” He squints at me as if to gauge my seriousness. “ I will hold you while he gives you the shellacking that deserves!”

“But look at the two of you!” He gestures wildly. “How would you react?!”

“Not like that! Like I said, we’re done!”

End of flashback

As I head into the car park to meet with Ted and Cynthia, I regret my weakness in taking him back. Brian and I didn’t talk for a couple of weeks afterwards, he was so disgusted. But then Michael apologised and mellowed out. But now it’s back in full force, in fact, it is seemingly worse!

“Hey, Bestie!” Ted calls out from his convertible, jolting me out of my trip down unpleasant lane. “How’s our boy doing?”

“What do you mean how is he doing? Haven’t you seen him?” I try to keep the panic out of my voice.

“Sorry, Ben! Sorry! I shouldn’t have teased you like that. I forget how bad it was for you when…”

“No, you turd! You shouldn't have!” I snap, and then rest my head on the steering wheel. A few seconds later, the door opens and the car rocks as he sits down.

“You can punch me if you like, even in the nuts. Not that I am using them for anything but pissing. Hell, even mild case of cystitis would be a welcome change.”

I turn my head and try to remain annoyed at this man, but he’s just such a decent human being it’s very hard to remain that way. Like Emmett, there is no malice in him, but unlike Emmett, he tends to not quite judge his remarks appropriately, much like Michael!

“Shall we go in then?” He jerks his head in the direction of the small townhouse that the four of us bought as our Keep Brian Alive HQ. “Cyn won’t be long and Ems is here already.”

“Yeah, let’s go.” I get wearily out of the car, and for a few minutes he says nothing. “He doesn't want me to go to the dinner now that Brian isn’t taking me.”

“Why isn’t he taking you?”

“Remember the guy that saved his life and visited him in the hospital?”

Ted stops walking. “You are joking, they met again?!” His jaw drops further.” And he’s taking him instead?!”

Yes and yes.” I hold the door open for him. “I have to admit to being a little disappointed that he dumped me so quickly…” We grin at each other as we remember Brian’s reaction to seeing him for the first time. “...the guy is beautiful. I am still going though…”

“How?” We both start at Caleb’s voice. “I missed that.”

“You know Mercy?”

“Yes.” “No.” They say at the same time with an added frown from Ted.

“Michael’s supposed best childhood friend, but he doesn’t seem to have gotten the we have grown apart memo.”

“Do we need to worry?” Ted frets.

“For Brian? No. She and her friend, George, who is taking me to the dinner, want Brian to work for them along with Justin, the beautiful hero. Not sure about how much problem she’s going to cause Michael.” I grimace as I say his name.

“Ah. Thought that was a very strident reaction. Catch me up.” Ted leads us to the lounge, where Ems is waiting with another man, whose presence causes Ted’s eyes to poing out of his head.

“Nice understated reaction there, Teddy.” Ems chuckles. “So allow me to put you out of your cock-uriosity. This is Blake, he works with Caleb. This is Ben and Teddy, he’s already met Cynthia.”

“Nice to meet you both.” He smiles and shakes our hands. “So, you’re my date?”

“Uh no, I’m going with George to the dinner.”

“Not you, Teddy. Teddy is my date.”

“I am? Why am I?”

“Well how else am I going to get closer to him to watch from the inner circle? Nobody is going to believe Caleb and I, but you and me, this they will believe.”

Ted’s Adam’s apple bounces up from his ankles. “Where, I mean, how are we going to be dating?”

“We’re going to meet at the dinner.”

“Hey boys, how far have you gotten?” Cyn strides in, ladened down with bags. “I have a message for you from Brian, box returned by 5pm or he gets dressed elsewhere.”

“Shit! I knew I forgot something. Such a hustle and bustle! Let me drop that off now. Caleb, you explain it all, and next time, Teddy, don’t go on holiday for two weeks and not check in! I don’t just worry about Brian you know! You were lucky I was distracted by the gorgeousness that is Mercy and my role as the Sooth of Love!”

“Sooth of Love…” Ted looks bewildered and besotted.

“Uh huh. One must twitter away!” he starts to leave and then his phone beeps. “Aww crap with a side of pisspots!”

“Let us guess.” I feel for the guy. Being so in demand does have its downsides. “Gregor?”

“Yep. Cyn tell him I will…”

“Tell him you were busy, but will be dropping it off at Debs on Sunday and staying for lunch. Mercy is going to be there, she’s been ignoring Michael’s calls.” He licks his lips. “I’ve persuaded Brian to come too.”

“I will be there about 1100…”

“Why so early?”

“Last minute trying on of outfit of course.” He gleams then blows us kisses and is gone.

“So, Caleb, can you tell us where Blake fits in here? Not that he is unwelcome by certain people and their appendages.” Ted goes vermillion and quickly sits down. “We’re even.” I smirk.

“Definitely.” He mutters.

“So before we talk about Blake, let me tell you about Hunter…” Caleb begins.

KINNETIC

TED’S OFFICE - TWO HOURS LATER

TED

I look at the picture of Blake again, and he is ravishing! I can’t believe, albeit pretend and for however long, he is going to be my boyfriend. I look up at the rapping on the door and my heart sinks.

“You got a minute?” Michael demands, not even bothering to wait for me to say he can come in. “Are you going to this dinner next week?”

I decide against bringing up his lack of politeness, as he would to me, before he launches into Project Sabotage Ben’s Night as I know he will. “Yes I am. Looking forward to it. Why?”

“How did you get a ticket?” His jaw ticks.

“Same way as Brian, we all got one…” I see the hope in his eyes. “...and we can take a guest, which is why Brian is taking Ben, or is it Justin, and I am taking Blake.”

“Blake? Who is that? When did you meet him?”

“Just before I went on holiday.”

“You kept that quiet.” He looks up to the ceiling. “And he’s definitely coming?”

“Yes. And speaking of quiet, I have a conference call in a few minutes that I need silence for, so…”

“Is this him?” He picks up the picture and stares at it. “A bit young for you isn’t he? Sure he doesn’t see you as a sugar daddy type figure?” He flicks it back onto the desk.

“You’re all about the romance. I can see why Ben stuck with you.”

“He is not sticking! Ben and I are very much in love!”

“But not joined at the hip!” I bite back.

“Well I shall leave you to your conference call. One of the benefits of working for yourself is that you are your own boss!” He taunts me as I follow him to the door.

“I went to Costa Rica first class all the way. And know the difference between working for yourself and no-one wanting to work for you!” I call after him then lock the door.

DEBS AND VIC’S HOUSE - SUNDAY MORNING

MICHAEL

I look out the window and sigh as she is still outside on her phone. Ben and Brian are upstairs getting changed in to their outfits for the dinner, and Emmett is yaddering to Ma about all the famous people they are going to meet there. It is just not fair! Ben is being so very selfish to go!

“Mercy!” Uncle Vic bellows from the front door. “Red or white?!”

“White, Uncle Vic! She prefers white!”

“Then why was she drinking red all the time in Jernigan’s?” Emmett calls over his shoulder.

“A minor aberration.” I shrug. “As kids when we would…” I trail off as I realise what secrets I was going to give away. “...never mind.”

“We knew about your drinking and you doing GAK.” Uncle Vic rolls his eyes.

“G...how did you know about that?!” I gasp.

“Kush makes you chatty. By you, I mean Mercy. She blabbered to her folks while still high, and they told us.”

I am about to say something when the door opens and she comes in grinning. “You grassed us up!” I tease her, and she pauses before looking at her phone again. “You told your folks about the GAK! I should really thank them for not…” I gasp as Uncle Vic punches me in the arm as he passes. “...ouch what?!”

“Still dead.” He hisses and hits me again. “Pull your head out of your ass, seriously! Luckily she tuned you out just then! I despair of you!”

“And she’s your best friend, this is basic stuff you’re supposed to retain.” Ben saunters down the stairs and everyone looks at him, he is absolutely gorgeous. “Well, what do you think?”

“I think you look…” Mercy is staring behind him. “...well toss my caber, don’t you scrub up nice?! Justin will be thrilled! And commando!”

“Thanks.” Brian blushes, I don’t think I have ever seen him blush before! “Do we get to see yours, Mercy?”

“Yes, what will you be wearing, since I won’t be there to see you in all your…”

“Okay what’s put that buzz in your knickers?!” Brian laughs as she punches the air then takes the wine off Uncle Vic and drains it.

“My piece de resistance. I have the body....”

“Oh you certainly have that sweetie. That is a fantastic body!”

“No not mine. But thank you very much. I have the Body for Rage.”

I stiffen as that is another sore subject for me!

“Body for Rage, what do you mean?” Brian pulls out a cigar and then waves it at Ma, who, I can’t believe this, nods! “Don’t worry little Wheezer we’re going to the garden. After you, body snatcher extraordinary.”

“Extraordinaire is what you should say.” I correct him and go to follow them outside.

“Uh no.” Brian stops me.

“What are you doing?”

“NDA. As in you haven’t signed one and…”

“Ben hasn’t signed one either!" I point out and try to get by but he’s not budging.

“Yes he has. All of us that were at the table have signed one.” Brian holds my gaze. “As have Debs and Vic. The only person that hasn’t is you, and she only brought two with her, so, unfortunately, you need to stay in here, which is just as well, especially with your delicate chest.”

CHAPTER 9 - TWO NEW SIDES, ONE VERY OLD ONE AND THE END

BRIAN

I see something in Ben’s eyes I haven’t seen in a long time...fighting spirit...so I wait as his jailer turns to look at him.

“Brian’s right. You need to stay in here, we won't be long.”  He waves me ahead and I try not to tense up as I wait for the usual placating statement, but he just shuts the door behind us,

“So who is it?” I ask Mercy, but she is staring at the window. Sighing, she throws away the water in Vic’s glass, puts her music on, then slides her phone inside. Smirking she puts the glass as close to the edge of the table as she can.

“Can those who are supposed to hear, hear me?” She grins as we sit down around the table. “Oh, get Justin on this.” She waits for him to pick up, then chuckles when he does. “How long you been awake, Justin?”

“About an hour, am still in bed.” He chuckles. “Someone called late last night and kept me up for a while.”

“Twice.” I light Ben‘s cigar and hand it to him, I can hear the hiss of annoyance as there is a lull in the music. “You have a snake, Debs?”

“No, just an ass...I mean asp. Now come on, honey, tell us what’s got you all giddy as a gadfly.”

“We needed a body to be Rage, and I have nailed, sadly not literally, Drew Boyd.”

I look across at Emmett, he looks stunned. “Emmett, you okay?”

“Yes, sweets, I am fine, we are more than fine.” He starts to smile. “He said he had big news to share but couldn't yet.”

“Want to expand a little?” Ben is getting better at blowing rings.

“We dated, well fucked, for six months before he came out properly. We are both too top of our games to be in a relationship. Besides, he was too young for me.”

“He's older than you by two years.” Mercy clips the end of the cigar, lights it, and hands it to Debs. “Never found out about the six months thing during my research.” She looks thoughtfully between Emmett and I. “Is…”

“Me and Boyd don't have a problem.” I reassure her then glare at my phone. “I hope that is not you snoring!” I bark.

“I’m awake!” Justin replies quickly...too quickly.

“Oh good, so what do you think of Cameron Stind being Rage?”

“Cameron Stind? Why are they going with that stringbeaned pothead? He is totally wrong for that!”

“You were asleep.” I grouse. “When we are talking about work, it helps to be awake so you don’t miss pertinent information like it is going to be Drew Boyd.”

There is silence for a few seconds. I sigh and shake my head. “Give us a minute.” I take myself to a corner and close my eyes briefly. “Are you sulking?”

“You didn’t have to say that.”

“So yes you are. Justin, this is a work meeting, you need to pay attention.”

“Still didn’t have to say it in front of everyone.”

“I did, because you went back to sleep.”

“Which is your fault since you kept me up late, as I said earlier.” His tone has lost a bit of its frostiness.

“Can we go back now?”

“Yes.”

As I sit back down, the door opens and Michael comes out with a bottle of wine and one glass. “What are you doing out here?”

“You’re finished aren’t you?”

“No.” All eyes turn to him.

“This is where you leave.” Justin prompts.

“Who's that?” He looks at my phone but I cover it up.

“The other person who signed an NDA, which again you haven’t, not that it would mean shit to you. You’d blab or use it for your own ends anyway.”

“Then why can’t I stay?”

“You were supposed to deny that.” Emmett sighs crossly. “Let’s...”

“No need to be snippy, Honeycutt.” Michael bitches.

“Do not call him Honeycutt!” Mercy raps out behind a plume of smoke. “I’ve not known him long, but I know he hates that. So stop it.”

Emmett smiles his gratitude. “Shall we talk during the appointment instead?”

“Much better idea,” Ben glowers at Michael.

“I thought this was the last appointment? Shouldn’t you change out of that, what with the smoke and everything?”

“If anything, this is an appropriate piece of attire.” Emmett picks off a piece of lint from the sleeve.

“What do you mean?”

“It’s a smoking jacket. Ben said he wanted one.”

“I see.” Then he doesn’t say anything and the uncomfortable silence stretches on. “Well this is fun.” He pours himself a small amount of wine and goes through the motions of tasting it. “This is lovely, nice cool Chablis, who brought it?”

“Sauvignon Blanc as it says on the label, and I did.” Emmett returns. “Try and save some for the rest of us.”

“Excuse me.” Justin’s voice makes us all jump. “Can I go back to sleep now?”

“No. Stay awake, I will be there soon to tuck you back in.”

“How far away are you? Do I have time for a quick shower?”

“Um I don’t…”

“Thirty minutes tops.” Mercy interjects, and we all look at her, she looks sheepish, again. “I have no sense of direction, and hate satnav, so I did a test drive from mine to here. Justin is in the same enclave as me, well pretty close. He’s two away.”

“Oh, right. Well, I’ll see you soon, sleepyhead.”

“Both heads are wide awake now!” Justin laughs, but then clears his throat. “And I’m sorry for earlier, guys.”

“What did you do?” Michael queries with a concentrated expression. “Is that you, Caleb?”

“Accepted.” Mercy grins and shakes her head. “Get thee going, Mr Kinney, you have a wee bit of making up to do still. I am sure his apology will be appropriately hard felt, I mean heartfelt!”

“Oh very good, Mercy!” Vic snickers. “You’ve not lost your touch I see.”

“Nope, I can be whip smart or bitch smart, depending on who I am speaking to.” She rests her chin on her hand. “Why are you still here, Mr Kinney?”

“What she said.” Justin prompts me, and I start to gather my things. “Is he making a move?”

“Yes, oh impatient impertinent one. Hang up and get ready!”

“Honey, will you want to eat afterwards?” Debs asks smirking. “I can save you a plate if you want…”

“Just go before the boy explodes with longing!” Ben laughs, and takes another pull on his cigar, while ignoring the seething look from Michael.

BEN

I watch Brian virtually sprint up the stairs before coming back to dispense kisses on the cheeks of Debs, Vic and Mercy before dropping one on my head. “Call you later, bestie, we have to discuss bodies and techniques!”

“Look forward to that!” I call out to his scampering back and reach for the wine, but Michael moves it.

“Not Caleb then?” Michael tries again, but nobody answers. Sighing, he looks at the jacket carefully. “Where’d you get it?”

“Well not off a blanket.” Mercy’s response has Debs gaping at her.

“Oh my god! You remember that?!”

“How could I forget the horror of knowing and the hives that resulted from it?” She blinks at Michael who starts to look guilty. For the first time in years he is looking guilty!

“What’s this about?” Emmett, ever one for gossip, leans in.

“He bought me a present from an exclusive area...” She starts to scratch. “...a jumper, which was great until he told me where he actually got it, from a street seller behind the dog pound. I am allergic to most pet hair, but especially dog, think it was made of the damn thing.” He starts to go red. “I do believe mom burned it and then buried the ashes.”

“She was so pissed. Think she had to burn the bedding as well, didn’t she?” Vic laughs fondly at the memory.

“Yep. She had to stop dad from burning the bed. Good times.”

“Yeah, we did have good times didn’t we, Mercy?” Michael perks up. “So now that your business is concluded, what should we talk about? Oh I know…”

“So what are you going to be doing on Thursday, Michael?” Vic asks, and my stomach rolls.

“I will be at home or doing inventory at the store, while that lot is gallivanting at Gucci.”

“Will bringing you back a doggy or a gift bag stop the carping?” Emmett demands, and I am taken aback by the tone, as is Michael. “Because if it does, can you tell me how much one would cost, Mercy? I have never heard so much bitching and complaining about one thing in my life!”

“Oh, there is one more thing he moans about, and that is the amount of time Ben spends with Brian.” Debs adds, and my hackles start to go up.

“About $15,000, so no that won’t be happening.”

Emmett’s mouth drops open for a few seconds. “You are kidding, right?”

“Nope. The Gucci Film and Advertising Awards Dinner go all out and then some! I have still got to spend the voucher from the last one.”

“Voucher? Who’s that from?” Michael tops up his glass then wafts his hand in my direction.

“Louis Vuitton.” Mercy blows a stream of smoke in his direction, he doesn't have a problem with her smoke I notice!

“Not funny, Mercy.”

“Stupid question, Michael.”

“Not necessarily. It doesn't follow that the voucher is from them, there is no need to be snide about a perfectly sensible question!”

Mercy starts to smile. “Not snide, sarcastic, very sarcastic. And I…”

“Michael, behave.”

“Uncle Vic, that’s not fair! She is being arsey! As fucking usual, when she gets an audience she has to play up!”

“When you’ve quite finished being a brat-a-tat-twat damn fool boy, perhaps we can eat, Aunt Debs.”

“Don’t you dare speak to me like that!” Michael jabs his finger at her and I see Emmett’s eyes widen as Mercy puts her cigar down.

“I have free will and am exercising it…”

“What the hell?!” Michael exclaims as Mercy grabs him by the collar and almost pulls him across the table, I manage to stop the glass with her phone in it hitting the floor, but Michael glass is not so fortunate. Luckily Debs grabbed the bottle.

“This is me playing to the audience, want me to really get mad? Times have changed, I have changed, and you need to recognise, realise and respect that. If you can't do that, then my advice to you is walk on by!” She pushes him back into his seat and flexes her fingers. “So, Aunt Debs, what are we eating?”

MICHAEL

“Uh...lamb cutlets with green beans and garlic bread. Want to give me a hand, Michael?” I just nod and follow her into the kitchen. We stand in silence for a few seconds, watching Mercy talk to the rest of them as if she’s not done what she just did. “Well I think we have found her breaking point.”

“I cannot believe the way she manhandled me just then!” I wait for her to agree or at least say something, but she merely takes the beans off the fire. “Can you? She was almost savage…”

“Not one word. Not one.”

“Why do you always take her side? I am your son, you should stick up for me. And why did you have to mention something that I spoke to you in private about?!”

“I can't and won't stick up for you when you are being an ass! As for the private, we were in the diner and every damn day you complain about Ben spending time with Brian, we can set our watch to you sometimes. Now get the plates out so we can eat!”

“When was I an ass? Give me one time I was an ass today!”

“When you first got here, you were arsey about Brian and Ben being here with Emmett without you. When they wouldn't let you go upstairs to see what they had chosen for the dinner. When…”

“I meant with Mer…”

“Oh I see. When you made that unthinking comment about Charles and Celine.”

“I can't get my head around that they are dead, I sometimes forget.”

“We never can, it was awful to get that call. I can still hear the calmness in her voice.”

“You said that at the time, but I didn't understand it. How could she have been so calm? I would’ve been hysterical…”

“People react differently when they are in shock.” She looks thoughtful. “I wonder if we should swap to red for this, let me ask Ben.”

“You don’t have to ask Ben. I…”

“Couldn’t tell the difference between a Chablis and Sauvignon with the label facing you. Get the glasses out instead.”

I fume as she heads outside and speaks to Ben who nods, and then they all laugh when she says something that I can't quite hear, I wait for her to come back in. “I take it Mr Wine Expert said to change the wine?”

“And now, now you are being an ass again.”

“Of course I am, Ma, and you are being a bitch!”

“Go home, Michael.” It is said so coldly and quietly that it takes me a few seconds to realise that it is behind me...and it is Ben. “I have heard you say many a thing, but to call Debs a bitch is disrespectful. Go home. Your home.”

“Ben, it was in the heat of…”

“Go home or we are through.”

“Ben, it’s okay, we…”

“Not okay. Not okay at all. I will see you, Debs. No matter what the laissez faire approach to manners is in your house, Debs, he does not get to call you that! Please, Debs, stop calling him a son-of-a-bitch. By saying so you give him permission to call you that!”

DEBS

That realisation hits me hard. I’ve called him that for years, and never saw the irony. The amount of times Vic rolled his eyes, now I know why.

“Like Mercy and I, you don’t get the humour dynamic that is…”

“We’re done, Michael.” Ben takes off the watch he is wearing, which he gave him for their 3rd year anniversary, and puts it on the table. “Time has stopped for us.”

I look between the pair of them, or more accurately where Michael is and the space where Ben was, as he is now outside saying something to Emmett, who looks poleaxed as he takes the jacket off him. Then, without looking back, Ben walks out of the back gate. Vic rushes in as Mercy dashes after Ben.

“What the hell happened?!” He demands.

“They just broke up.” I look at a silent Michael. “Ben just dumped him.”

CHAPTER 10 - NOT GETTING IT BUT AT LEAST HE AGREES TO TRY...

VIC

“What for?!” Emmett exclaims with the phone clamped to his ear. “Hang on, Debs! Have you caught him up? Oh thank goodness! Okay, let me know. Right, what happened?!” We all look at Michael who is staring at the watch. “I think he is in shock.”

“I am not in shock.” Michael picks up the watch. “I am sick and tired of his sanctimonious and childish behaviour!”

Our collective jaws hit the floor...did we hear him right?!

“Shall we eat, Ma? I don't know about you lot but I am hungry. I shall call Ben later and get him to apologise for storming out after you went to all that effort.”

“Michael, he’s dumped you for calling me a bitch.” Debs touches his arm as if to bring him back to reality.

“He dumped me four years ago after what I said to Brian, yet here we are. He will calm down.”

“But the watch.” I point out.

“Hmm, yes there is that. Maybe he’s madder than I thought.” He twists his mouth, pockets the watch then frowns. “Let me call him.”

“Michael, he has dumped you!” Emmett goes for the rip of the bandage approach. “He asked Mercy to block your number while he was calling Brian to let him know! You could hear his cheering in space!”

“He did?” His frown deepens. “How did he have her block my number while he was on the phone to Brian?”

“He has two…” I begin, then his expression changes from blase to furious.

“Two phones?! He has two phones! What for?!”

“None of your concern now.” Emmett declares, pouring salt into the wound. “But he’s had two for ages…oh, is that normal?”

Michal is just opening and closing his mouth, radiating with fury. “Why did he and why do you know about it and not me?!”

“One was for work. “ Debs sighs.

This does not help. “You knew he had two phones and didn't tell me?!”

“We assumed he told you, but that, as Emmett says, is no longer your concern. And, as you said, let’s eat.” I state firmly, and this seems to take some wind out of his sails.

“Okay, yeah, food.” He murmurs, and I see his hand stroking the watch in his pocket. “Then I will call Ben and clear this up and get the number for his work phone.”

Neither me nor Debs says a word because Michael has clearly forgotten one thing about the watch. We were both there when he gave it to him - well the three of us were - Brian was there too, looking like he'd rather have his teeth pulled via his navel! Ben had said it was too extravagant a gift for their anniversary, and, although Michael demurred, we all knew he was peeved that Ben had got him a book token for his present, despite him saying that this is what he wanted! Ben promised that the only way he would take the watch off was if they ever split up!

JUSTIN AND CHRIS’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

JUSTIN’S ROOM

JUSTIN

“For the love of all things pink and hard, would you just jump me already? I am a quivering mass of need, want, and lust, and you are not picking up on my oh-so-subtle hints, like me being naked and trying to get into your lap for instance!”

He removes my wandering hands very gently from his jeans and shakes his head. “We need to talk.”

“About you not fancying me?” I am horny and affronted.

“No, but it is about what you just did.”

“Tried to take your clothes off?”

“No, you pouted. Earlier when I told you off, you pouted.”

“You seriously are going to talk about this now when I am like this?!” I gesture to my slightly flagging cock and he smirks,

“I will resurrect that in a minute. Put these on…” He hands me my boxers. “...and listen.” He pats the space next to him and I resentfully sit down. “I am an asshole…”

“I had noticed!” I grump.

“When it comes to work I am the consummate asshole. I expect and get 200% from the people that work for and with me. You being my boyfriend doesn’t preclude you from that. In fact, you will have to work twice as hard to get half the praise. I will not play favourites. When we are working, that is what we are doing. When we are outside of work, then we are boyfriend and boyfriend. The two are separate and…”

“You made me tired!”

“True, but that was when I was being your boyfriend. That call was about work, you should’ve either excused yourself or stayed awake, no middle ground.”

“Fine, message received, can we get back to where we were?”

“Not finished.” Now I am beginning to get so pissed off with his mithering. “Kinnetic allows me to do what I love and I love to draw. I fought and worked so hard to get that back…” He reaches in his bag. “...here.”

He hands me a pad, and, pasting on a smile while thinking ‘doesn’t he bore on’, I open it...and feel like a total shithead. “They are incredible!” I gasp as I look through them. “Where are these…” Slowly I look at him. “...are these from the hospital and the rehab centre?” He nods and I turn more pages and then freeze. “Th...that’s me. These are of me.”

“Yeah, I have have a good memory for good looking faces.”

I am mesmerised at the drawing of me playing my guitar. “I remember this. I thought you were sleeping.”

“I had them closed so I could draw it in my mind. Turn to the last page.”

“I want to go through…”

“It’s for you, but turn to the last page.” His voice is low and has a tinge of nervousness to it. I flick to the last page and want to slap myself! “Read it.”

“You. Your face was the first thing I saw when I was shot, when I came around, and the last when I left. Now your face is complete.” I don’t understand and it must show.

“I drew that the night after we met and made out…” He taps the picture of me as I am now. “...I was so happy as I thought I would never see you again. You are my muse, but…”

“Not when we are working? I get it. I am spoilt…”

“I figured.”

“I can’t say that I won't mess up or play the boyfriend and muse card, but I promise to try not to. Good enough?”

“Hmm. It will do for now. Now apply lips to general face area of boyfriend.”

“The face?!”

“As a starting point!”

PETERSON/DIXON RESIDENCE - SAME TIME

LOUNGE

LINDSAY

Insufferable, that's what this is! How did he get a ticket to this dinner and I not know about it?

“So what are you going to wear? I am assuming Gucci.”

“Obviously.” I clip out, and go back to my transcript which I had been finessing, not that it needs much of that.

“Now now darling, don’t get testy, in the temper sense of the word not the balls kind.” I breathe out slowly. “I do hope you are off the rag by then, it does make you rather rancorous. I mean even more than usual.”

“James, I am not on the rag, I am upset because…”

“I got a ticket for the dinner and a date and you are dateless. I know, but adding the red rag to your bullishness is fun for me.”

“So who is this fabled date? Does he have a name and a pass from his parents? You like them young, don't you? Shame that they don’t like you.”

“I am going with Mitcham Ford from the Los Angeles Film School. You remember him, he is repulsed by you too.” He sits down opposite me with a reptilian smile. “So why’d she bail?”

“She had double booked…”

“This is one of the most prestigious dinners of the year, everyone keeps the date free. What did you say to get her so pissed off?”

“As I said, she double booked herself. She was already going.”

“And with someone else. You just presumed that she would drop them and go with you. Wrongly. So which table is she on?”

“I have no idea, she never said.”

“And a better one than you. The only other fly in my ointment is my table.”

“Oh? What’s wrong with it?” I go back to finessing.

“You’re on it and there is no chance of us being moved, but at least I get to stare at the empty seat next to you. Well, goodnight, I hope you enjoy the sleep of the frustrated, both sexually...shame you ran out of batteries...and socially. I am off to get sucked dry, Mitcham does have such an adorable mouth.”

MERCY’S HOUSE - NEXT DAY

LOUNGE

MERCY

“You are wearing it!” I growl down the phone. “That’s what happens when you agree to go out to fancy place with me, is that not correct?” I chuckle at her indignant snorting. “Honey, I want to show you off. This will be my only time, please wear it. Yes!” I dance around the room as she finally gives up. “See you soon. Oh, and wear the shoes too...heavens to mergatroid, wear trainers there and then change! Jeez!”

I twirl the phone in my hand and then reach for my Monte Cristo. “Ready or not, here comes Mamma.” I look down the guest list again. “You hurt my friend, this is the perfect payback.”

I am surprised to hear an insistent knocking, as only George knows where I live. I look at the screen and my jaw drops, for outside are Justin, Chris and Daphne.

“How did you find where I live?” I ask as I let them in.

“Brian said you live two away from me, so we looked for the car and sniffed out the smell of cigars, and here we are.” Daphne chirrups handing me a bottle of wine.

“And why is that?” I wave them into the lounge and Chris looks pleadingly at the humidor and then me. “The blue ringed one.”

“Oh thank you!” He exclaims and settles down on the sofa. “The rents won’t allow smoking, even the finest ceegars, in the house.”

“Aha. So again, why?”

“We have a common spank bank.” Justin starts and looks wistful.

“Uh huh, and that would be?”

“Drew Boyd.” Daphne sighs. “And we know he’s going to be at the dinner.”

I am beginning to understand the wine and the visit. I grin as I crack it open and hand Chris the lighter. “And you would like him how close?”

“The next table would be awesome.” I can see the drool through the smoke.

“But I’ve only just got him on our table, thought it would be a good way for him and Brian to meet.” I can hear them blinking. “But for his own safety, I think it might be best if Ben sits next to him.”

“For reals?” Daphne croaks and takes a hefty glug of her wine.

“Yes. So…”

“We need to call Emmett! I have to get that dress lowered!”

“Hey!” Chris grumbles.

“Oh please, as if you wouldn’t have those pants tightened!”

“Are you two forgetting the straight part of your dynamic?” Justin takes the cigar from Chris and I wince, they are not to be shared. “Drew Boyd is gay and just out of a relationship, so won’t be looking for anybody right now.”

“That’s true…” I hand Chris another cigar. “...but as my mom said, just because you don't believe in Santa doesn’t mean you shouldn't decorate the tree.” I take a sip of wine and savour it, smiling at their silence. “Don’t be looking at me, I have no idea what that means either! So, you guys fancy take out?”

“Yeah!” Chris chuckles as he lights up again.

KINNETIC - NEXT DAY

RECEPTION

CALEB

“I am failing to understand your presence, Mr Novotny. Mr Kinney, as he would prefer you refer to him if at all, is not here, and if he was, would not speak to you. Especially regarding the whereabouts of his best friend and your ex.”

“Ben has blocked my calls. I just want to clear this misunderstanding up.”

“Do you have his watch?”

“Yes, and I want to give it back.”

“He doesn't want it back, doesn't want you, and you need to leave now.”

“But I need…”

“Hello again.” I can’t help the smile as the vision that is Mercedes walks in.

“Mercy, what are you doing here?!” He gives her a censorious look that neither of us are happy with.

“My business. Have you apologised to…”

“Ben? I am trying, but between Mr Kinney and Caleb here, they are keeping me away from him.”

“I was going to say Aunt Debs actually. And, as for Ben, he's in New York with Brian and Emmett.”

“Why?” The grip on the counter tightens.

“Fittings. Along with the rest of them. I am…”

“Why doesn’t everyone understand that it was banter between Ma and I?”

“Because there is banter, misogynistic disrespect and shit that is going to get you killed.” She returns her eyes flashing like emeralds.

Okay very hot on manners….treat her like a lady.

“Ah, you must be Mercedes. Wow, he was not kidding, those eyes are incredible.”

“Thanks. Which makes you Ted?”

“Yes. Come to my office, let’s talk logistics.”

“Why aren't you there, Ted?”

I feel every fibre in his body stiffen as he turns back to the irritant. “My fittings were completed during my holiday. Now, Mercedes, I have heard that whisky is a particular favourite of yours?”

“Japanese.”

Loves whisky and red wine; my god she is gorgeous in those jeans!

“15 year old acceptable?” Ted links his arm in hers, and, although she is taken aback, she allows it.

Hmmm holding those hands may take time.

“Now that needs sushi.”

“Caleb, can you arrange for that?”

“Of course, Ted. It will take about 40 minutes.”

“Perfect.”

MICHAEL

Mercy doesn’t look back as Ted leads her like a dog, which I know she’s not, to his office. I would normally go after him to defend her, since she is my best friend, but I need to speak to Ben.

“Thanks for nothing.” I snap at Caleb, and walk out. I almost turn around to give him a piece of my mind when I hear his sarcastic you’re not welcome.

When I get back to my car, I scroll through my phone to check our shared calendar and close my eyes in resignation. All his entries have been deleted. In fact, they are being deleted in real time!

MARILYN’S HOUSE OF LOVE AND MAGIC

MARILYN

I grin happily and hug myself as I feel the last vestiges of the ties that bound the two of them dissolve into the ether. “Now then, time for you to meet the man of your dreams and his nightmares.”

“Who are you talking to, Marilyn?” Vic asks as he looks through the massage oils and then puts all the ones he selected back with a sigh. Striding over to him, I put them all back in his basket. “You. I am talking to you! Now buy them and go on your way!”

“What is the point of all of these…”

“Unguents and lubricants.” I finish for him, and then turn my head as I hear the door open and feel something good is about to happen. “Won’t be long!”

“It's okay, I am only browsing!” He calls back.

“Looking for anything…” I turn and stare at him and then Vic. “...why don’t you help this gentleman, Victor?”

“I don’t...ouch!” He glowers as I kick him in the ankle.

“Victor here is a long time customer, he can give you pointers.”

“Oh, that’s great! I am looking for a gift basket. My friend’s birthday.”

VIC

He is as sexy as fuck! Harnessing my underused nuts, and with a nod of encouragement from Marilyn, I hobble over with a smile. “And you would be?”

“Rodney.”

“Nice to meet you. Now tell me all about your friend and which end of the bath he or she likes to have.”

Rodney laughs and I flutter. “No idea, he’s not that kind of friend. Haven’t had that kind for a long time.”

I school my face to neutral and ignore the twerking, at least I think that’s what Marilyn is doing behind him. “Good to know. So let me show you what I like…”

CHAPTER 11 - CROWING, LURKING AND FURKLING

MICHAEL’S HOUSE - MORNING OF THE AWARDS DINNER

BEDROOM

MICHAEL

It has been hours now, and nothing! Ma and Uncle Vic have heard from him, in fact he was showing off his outfit to them, but nothing for me! The watch that I gave him has been put in a drawer, as I had...wait a minute! I leap off the bed to grab the watch. It is one of those old fashioned Casio watches in appearance, but is modern in its technology. I open up his calendar and my heart beats faster. As I suspected, he didn’t clear it before he gave it back. I know what he’s going to be doing and where he’s going to be doing it. This will give me an opportunity to try and talk him back into my life.

“Right, let’s set up a series of coincidences shall we? Not too many to be obvious of course!”

“Novotny! Open the door!” Brian’s voice booms up from my front garden. I am immediately worried and run down the stairs, yanking it open. “So…”

“What’s happened?! Is it Ben?!”

“What’s happened is that he’s free of the shackles that you put him in, and yes I am around because of Ben. Thank you for bringing it down for me!” Before I can register anything he snatches the watch out of my hand, puts it on the ground, and stamps it into smithereens.

“What the hell did you do that for?!” I bellow at him as his kicks the pieces around the garden.

“So he can go where he wants without the danger of you turning up.” He bites out around his ever present stinking cigar. “I understand that you know about his second phone?” I stiffen and say nothing. “Don’t bother asking for the number. He’s told his PA not to give you the it when you call...and call you will.”

“Since when do you speak for Ben?”

“I always have, you just never listened. As he’s not talking to you, I’m the only one that wants to speak to you about him now, just so I can tell you how much you’ve lost. After all, you said it yourself, I am a total asshole over kicking someone, especially you, when you’re down.”

Anger pumps through my veins, not only because of his assholiness, but because I know he is right! Nobody but nobody will talk to me about Ben, the only reason I knew about the outfit showing was because I happened to overhear Marilyn in the diner talking - or should I say whispering - with Emmett.

“So what stupendously stupid plans do you have for this evening?”

“I do not have stupid plans. I use my time constructively, and…”

“So you’re going to be wanking, got it. Well, I’ll leave you to it, need to rinse my brain anyway!”

DAPH’S HOUSE - AN HOUR LATER

DEN

DAPH

I shouldn't laugh, but he looks so indignantly frustrated it is just so funny! He is actually throwing his hands up in the air and swearing like a sailor because his boyfriend wants to wait for the right time…

“...the right time! How time right is right?!” He seethes.

“You have now queened into gibberish, what you just said doesn’t make grammatical sense, but I get the gist. Justin, have you considered actually asking him what the problem is? I mean with having sex with you…”

“What the heck is that supposed to mean?!”

“Don’t go nuclear!” Chris chides him. “Daph has a point. You’ve gotten each other off, right?”

“We’ve gotten handsy, well he’s gotten handsy with me and talked absolutely pure delicious pornworthy filth at me, but…”

“Have you actually seen him naked?” I frown as I remember their tales of lust,  and at no point is Brian naked or even semi undressed.

“Uh…”

“When you saw him in the hospital, can you remember what he was like? I mean physically?”

“He was really thin.” He thinks for a few minutes and then bows his head in frustration. “I mean, he’s said he’s been waiting for me, stop waiting already! I have…”

“I do believe he wants it to be special for him. With you.” I interrupt his over wrought hand wringing with a cold dash of logic.

“You mean he wants...he wants me to...oh my freaking frigging god!” He screams and sits down so quickly he misses the sofa entirely. “Ow my fucking coccyx!!”

“As long as it’s not your cock, you will be fine. Now be quiet and calm down! Think like he is, and ease back on the circling like a hawk! Yes, he’s this great Stud and Fuck of Liberty Avenue, but he’s your virginal boyfriend right now and you are coming on just a little too strong.” Chris and I have discussed this, and we both think the same.

“But…”

“Too strong. Yes, he’s flattered, and who wouldn't want to reduce a nympho like you to a puddle of post orgasmic bliss after taking his dick out of your ass, but you…”

“Why did you ask about the hospital?” He is still rubbing said ass.

“Because you have only seen him like that, remember? He’s gotten the double edge of having sex when he is in love for the first time and you seeing him for the first time. I still can’t believe you never once peeked!” He stops rubbing his ass and looks rueful. “You did! You peeked!”

“Not peeked, his towel slipped when they were giving him a bed bath and it happened to be in my eyeline.”

“Annnnd.”

“A gentlemen…”

”An arooga then?” Chris smirks.

“To say the least.” He mumbles, and pulls his phone out of his pocket. We exchange knowing looks, we do believe he’s finally got it. “I am a horny 21 year old virgin, this ends tonight!”

Or maybe not!

BRIAN’S LOFT - FORTY MINUTES LATER

BRIAN

“You pissed or proud?” I look up from watching the light glint off the lighter as I twirl it.

“A bit of both.” Emmett replies as he polishes my shoes, which I said I would do but he insisted. “Proud of you for standing up for him, but pissed that, yet again, you had to.” I stop twirling entirely as he comes and sits next to me. “Stop fighting Michael for Ben. He has to fight these battles, and you know there will be more.”

“Hmmm. He does fight back, I mean he dumped him…”

“Brian.” He sighs, and I know what is coming. “He should never have taken him back after what he said, and should have dumped way before now after that. He was an asshole to you and he knows that.”

“Michael has always been an asshole…”

“Not him, Ben. Ben’s the asshole. Even after you got shot, and after many a border crossing bitching remark, he still didn't bite the bullet and...oh sorry!”

“Don’t be. You're the only one who keeps me normal. Like before. So continue.”

“Oh, okay then! Debs was the excuse not the reason, and he should’ve told Michael the reason.”

“And what reason is that?” Ben’s voice makes us both jump but he doesn't sound angry, just confused and relieved.

BEN

“You don’t love him, let alone like him anymore. He’s not good enough for you. You find his jealousy and possessiveness, which are not the same thing, hellish and…”

“All of the above and more. And you are right, I was an asshole to my best friend and a coward.”

“But no more, right? You would call Brian out on his shit, and you don’t get to fuck him for sticking to good behaviour! He got it by not doing as he was asked, sorry, as was expected of a decent human being. By the way, what was he like? Did you ever let him top you?”

“If he has, you and I will have to review our friendship.” Brian growls.

“Nope, never. For a gay guy he is remarkably squeamish about pitching.” Brian, despite never been on the field, twists his lip in annoyance. “There were times when I almost caved and…”

“Got it elsewhere?” Ems suggests, and I nod. “Why didn’t you, apart from the moral aspect?”

“This I want to hear.”

“Because of you, Brian.” This takes him aback. “You are the Stud, always have been and always will be, but you never cheated. You ended stuff to get what you really wanted. And the itch to bottom would fade, and…”

“So would your courage?” He takes a sip of his beer. “But that’s it, there is no going back. I didn't make that grandstanding smackdown and break the watch for you to go back?”

“Grandstanding smack...watch? Okay, what now?” I start to smile.

“He didn't know.” He looks at Emmett whose jaw drops open. “And I have always hated that pig ugly watch. It looked like it came from a druggie’s Christmas box.” He reaches under the table and pulls out another  box. “It’s three years, no, two years old, but he, for once, beat me to the punch and I wouldn't put you on the spot and make you choose.”

“Hold up, rewind!” Emmett orders stopping me from taking the box. “Are you saying that Michael got him that watch knowing you got him one as well?”

He shrugs. “Can’t have been coincidence that I had mentioned getting one for your birthday and you got one for your anniversary, which was sooner. He put you on the spot and demanded that you promise to never take it off, well only if you two were over….which he never expected to happen.”

“Well that beat him in his petard, didn’t it? Now come along, we have to get ready.” He hands me the box. “Wear it with, and act like you have, P&C. That’s pride and courage.”

“From now on I will, and Brian, I am…”

“Sorry is bullshit, but to make it up to me, you can help me with something.”

“Justin wants to move onto the next stage, and you’re all about the waiting because you think you won’t last? You want to put him off without hurting his ego or looking like a virgin groom?”

“Yep.” He goes slightly pink and Emmett almost sits down on his shoes!

“Why didn’t you just say that?” I step aside to reveal Justin looking somewhat embarrassed in the open doorway.

BRIAN

“How long have you been there?” He walks inside and pulls the door shut.

“From when Ben came in. Why didn’t you just say?”

“You are a spoilt, horny, very sexy 21 year old virgin who wants to get laid! You weren’t listening to what I was…”

“I said I was spoilt, you should’ve just said you wanted to wait!”

“You weren’t listening. Remember when I came around last Sunday? You were naked to open the door! I could've been…”

“I knew it was you!”

“Still not listening. it was like trying to herd cats while pushing them uphill!” I smile down at him and the uncertainty starts to clear from his face. “The weekend, okay? Can you keep a lid on it until then? Try a slow build, we're gonna get there, there is no race. We want to cum together as well as apart.”

“Okay, here’s what’s going to happen: I am taking Benjamin here to get him strip waxed, buffed, and shined, and you two go furkle. Specifically, let him furkle for nuts!”

“Furkle?” Ben snickers.

“It means to forage or fumble about. And by that, I mean inside your pants!” Ems leers. “It’s only polite for him to get a feel for you.”

“I spend too much time talking to you.” I grumble, then sit down and spread my legs. “You don't get to watch!” I remark pointedly.

“Shame!” Ems cackles, and quickly gathers our suit bags while Ben grabs everything else.

Now it is just the two of us and he is still standing where I left him.

“Justin?” I prompt, and he stands between my legs before lowering his head to kiss me. “By the way, I know you peeked.” I murmur against those soft moist lips.

“Eidetic memory?” He murmurs as he slides down my body and unbuckles my belt.

“Uh huh.” I gaze at him when he gasps and blinks rapidly. “You don’t remember it being that big?”

“Nu-uh.” He smiles lazily then licks his lips. “A furkling I will go!”

DINER - TWO HOURS LATER

MICHAEL

I am somewhat calmer after Brian’s bombastic and typical arsy stymying behaviour earlier. The door opening brings in his boyfriend, as if, and his friends. I lean back against the booth so they can’t see me, and they take the booth two down from me.

“So?!” Daphne is squealing.

“Bigger than I thought, felt, or remembered.” He replies and yawns.

What is he on about?!

“You best have something to buck you up. We have Drew Boyd on our table, remember?!” Chris shoves him in the shoulder and signals one of the busboys. I shrink back further. “Three espressos, please, and a plate of fries.”

“Fries? We’re going to be having a six course meal when we get there!” Justin exclaims. “Cancel the fries and can we have the espressos to go, please? Come on!”

Six courses?!

“We have just sat down, why are we going now?!” Daphne bitches.

“We're getting ready at ours. Brian, Ems and Ben are coming for the final once over before we go to Mercy’s to leave from there. She’s organised stretch Rolls for each of us!”

“How do you know this, apart from being with us and Brian at his loft, you've not seen Mercy.”

“Brian told me. Afterwards.”

Well he certainly didn’t waste time fraternising with the staff...like I said, not boyfriend!

“Oh, thanks.” He gives the busboy some money and waves them ahead of him. “I don’t suppose we can walk home?”

“No. You furkled, you reap the consequences.” Daphne calls over her shoulder, laughing. “Chris drove, now let’s boogie.”

I wait for them to leave and then follow them to his car. Poor Justin, Mercy is a very private person, she won't be happy when I tell her that he gave me her address.

CHAPTER 12 - ALL PLAYERS ARE NOW PRESENT...LET THE GAMES BEGIN

CHAPTER 13 - FEASTING ON THE FOOD OF LOVE AND DRINKING A GLASS OF HATE

LEDA

“You two doing okay?” I stroke Mel’s belly, which is only slightly showing. “I mean with…”

“Meaning nothing to me, and feeling nothing but relief and happiness.” She smiles and then looks over her shoulder before looking impishly at my drink. “Quick, before she comes back!”

“Why do you do this? You know she’s going to tell immediately and...too late!” I chuckle as a mouthing no at me Mercy heads towards us. “So you want to know what she’s got?”

“Orange juice?” She sighs sadly.

“As if!” Mercy snorts and drapes her arm over her shoulder. “You, my darling friend, can have this.” She takes the glass. “This is where you sip…” She winks at me. “...now swallow and say thank you.”

She almost chokes on whatever it is before giving her a smacker on the lips, which draws a gasp to my left. I look and there is Lindsay, just gaping, but when she sees me watching her she turns her back. “What is that, and any clue as to the watching shrew?”

“Bergamot, ginger and apple fizz!” Mel exclaims and hands it to me, the lurid colour is a bit off-putting but it is absolutely gorgeous. “Have you been playing good friend?”

“A very small good friend, but a good one nonetheless.” She chuckles, taking her rhubarb fizz off of me. “The base of Mother’s Ruin, just this once as it is an auspicious occasion.”

“And that is?” I query and reluctantly hand it back.

“I will get you one. And Mother’s Ruin is what they used to call gin in olden times in…”

“I hardly think that is appropriate considering...” We are startled by Lindsey's arrival and her pious but hushed tones.

“When did The Storm-Marcus baby become any of your concern?” I ask, taking Mel’s hand to kiss the back of it and watch Mercy clench her glass…this is not going to end well, need to head her off!

“Any foetus whose mother is willing to put it at risk by…”

“Being the only one that must carry, thus inflicting your DNA on the poor thing!” I interrupt her for her own safety, as now the drink is by Mercy’s side and she is slow blinking, which means she’s doing stinking thinking!

“Apart from the moral aspect, it is a medically proven fact that…”

“When eavesdropping, eavesdrop properly. I said the base of Mother’s Ruin, not the final product. It is booze free you sanctimonious old bat!” Mercy smiles. “Now flutter off to your belfry and flap that foetid like your fanny stinking mouth there!”

“Foetid like your fanny stinking mouth?” Mel chortles at Lindsey's affronted, but closed mouth, expression. “And to think she’s being kind by not saying that loud enough for people to hear. I will get louder. Remember how I used to scream...during one of our many many rows? Shall I refresh your…” She giggles into my shoulder as Lindsay almost sprints across the room to get away from us, then takes another sip. “...now Mercy, wherever did you hear that from?”

“Just came to me.” She sighs sadly. “Sorry, I should have....”

“Yes you should’ve let me defend my wife first, but apparently in this modern era that is another duty of the godmother.” I drain my drink and watch her stare morosely down through the bottom of hers, then slowly her head comes up and she looks first at me then at Mel. “And there is the shower, we want it pure tinseltown and…”

“Tinsel? Did I hear tinsel?” A beaming man strides up to us. “I am Emmett Honeycutt, tinsel tosser extraordinaire, I am extraordinarily good at the other tossing, but let’s keep it clean. Now, Mercy…” He nudges her and she turns to look at him. “Sweet one, who are these two beauties that have you so quiet?”

“Uh, this is Mel and her wife Leda.” Mercy then points at Mel’s tummy. “And in there is my godchild.”

“So the flummoxification is because you’ve just found out she’s…”

“No, the godmother part.” She starts to beam at us but before we can continue the MC announces that the Awards part is going to start.

MICHAEL’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

LOUNGE

MICHAEL

When I got to the store, I remembered that because I was so certain that I would be going, I had made sure that everything was done and put a notice up that I would be closed on Friday, but now my feathers are further ruffled because the ceremony but not the dinner is being shown live! I was idly channel hopping when I landed on the F&F Channel, it’s called the Film & Fashion Channel officially, but I prefer to think of it as false and facetious...all that twittering and billing and cooing over bits of cloth! Emmett had simpered about it before and I tuned him out, but then something caught my eye and that something was Brian! I just froze the screen thinking I had imagined it, but there he was, striding into the venue.

“How…” I mumble around a mouthful of Mexican, sadly the food not a naked pool boy. “...does Mercy sit through these…” I drop my fork and can’t believe it! Ben is sitting next to Drew Boyd!

“So, ladies and gentlemen.” Some scrawny presenter twitters. “We are going to be conducting at-table interviews…”

“You have gotta be kidding?!” I snarl at this continued unfairness, I lose my appetite as they go from table to table. “Do not interview Drew Boyd, do not interview Drew Boyd!” I pray.

“Now we are nearing the top tables. Sitting on Table Two are the film mogul George Schickel, the retired Ironman Drew Boyd, the CEO and President of Kinnetic, Brian Kinney, and, a rare treat for the true artists film and theatre aficionados amongst us, Leda Storm. May I start with you, Mr Schickel? I understand an announcement of a film of magnitude is in the offing?”

“Yes it is, but this is not for me to share, as it is not my news. Yes, I have provided the film and financial backing, but I am not the person in charge. While all those here at this table are the team of producers, writers, directors, music score writers, voice over artist and legal…the person who is the brains and the beauty behind Rage the Anger Within is Mirabelle Mercedes...”

“What?!” I gasp at the screen, and it seems that everyone else is surprised to hear that too! But then it hits me, I will be working on this. After all, I’m her best friend and she wouldn't leave me out! Grinning, I am about to switch the TV off as they pan away from their table when I see something...I don’t like the way Drew Boyd is leaning in on Ben.

BACK AT THE DINNER

MERCY

Okay, so they have been told. I went to my hiding place behind a pillar when I saw Cruz Mendez heading to the table. George has been an absolute diamond in allowing me to use him as a front for this, but now it's time to go explain. As I approach, all eyes turn to me and I start to breathe easier when I see no annoyance just curiosity.

“Now come, my little Emerald, explain yourself.” Emmett pats the seat next to him.

“Everything I said about George is true. He did want you to do his artistry, but…”

“We can discuss the what of that another time.” George tells Brian who regards me for a few long moments before nodding. I breathe out. “Shall I take over?” I nod and drain my glass, my focus is on the table. “As she said, everything she said to you is true, but we just said it was my film and not hers. She had the idea, she has written the dialogue and everything, but didn’t have the confidence to approach you to say it was for her. After all she’s done for me, I couldn’t say no. And if you said no to it then…”

“Would you have asked someone else?” Ben questions, and I shake my head.

“You would’ve waited it out until he said yes?” Emmett loops his arm in mine, and again a small nod. “Stop being a bastard and put her out of her misery!”

“A condition needs to be added to the contract…” I blink at him. “...Kinnetic does the promotion?” I start to smile. “That you leave with me, you can have a say but not much.”

“Um, just a second. George, you said all of us on this table. What are Chris and I?” Daph looks around. “We can’t do anything.”

Justin is grinning. “Do you have security lined up?”

“Why no, I don’t. Don’t suppose you know a security firm that we could use…” I smirk at him over the rim of my glass. “...perchance?”

“Meanwhile…” Chris prompts, and I realise what he has said is true.

“Runners and…”

“Fight co-ordinators!” Daph exclaims, and we all look at her. “I am the best fighter of the three of us, and Chris can be the PT as that’s his major, and…”

“But what about me?” Emmett frowns. “What am I doing?”

“Set location. You and George will be spending a lot of time together finding inspirational sets, so why not exchange numbers now, as in right now, and make arrangement for Thursday to meet and discuss.” All eyes turn to them, and the first to move for his phone is George. “Marvellous!” I declare as digits are exchange. “So to our ickle film company...”

“What are we called?” Chris asks reaching for his glass.

“Esmeralda Skyes.” I smile sadly. “They would...never mind. To Esmer…”

“Who’s they?” Emmett stays my hand. “Your folks?” I nod.

“We're family now, so tell us. I know that they are gone, but how?”

“Car crash. He was on the phone and then they were gone.”

“Sorry, honey.”

“Still say it was the caller that caused it.” I growl and then shake myself, not the time or place.

“What caller?” Ben asks gently. “Like Ems said, family now, so tell us…”

“Before we moved to London, my folks would get the odd weird phone call. Nothing more than a silent call. They thought it was from those less enlightened, so shrugged it off, but in the run up to the move they happened more and more. I didn't know about them until we moved, and was glad of it, because they stopped.” I signal for a refill and take down half of it before continuing. “It was about another three months before they started up again…”

“How long was this for?” Justin searches his pockets. “Do you have a pen and paper? It’s too noisy for recording, and I don’t think you want to say this again.”

“Here.” Brian hands him a notebook with such a look of pride it makes me smile.

“Okay, so when?”

“When I was 14, and they died when I was 19.” They look horrified. “Gets better, just before the crash a call came through and the voice kept singing ‘I’m going to kill you’. In his haste to cut it off, he swerved into the path of a bus, he never had a chance. Mum died instantly, he hung on for a few weeks, in a coma and the first thing he did was ask for her. My uncle told him, then he died of a heart attack a week later...well a broken one.” I finish off my drink. “So there you have it...and the thing, the one thing I will never forgive him for is not just not bothering to call, but to not come to the funerals either. Could not believe that.”

“Who didn’t?” Leda hands me a tissue, I hadn’t realised I was tearing up.

“Do you mean Michael?” Ben wearily wipes his hand over his face. “Explains the doggedness to be with you. Maybe he's trying to make up for it.”

“A simple sorry would do.” I point out. “But no, he continues to talk about them as if they are still here! And it...” I frown as a tall blonde strides over, but relax a bit when Justin smiles and hands him the notebook, he reads it briefly, nods, pockets it then heads back the way he came. “And that was?”

“Hunter. He works for my parents. I am going to get my dad to look into this. You will get the pad back if you need it back.” While Brian shakes his head, I can feel my jaw unhinge. “I know it's been a long time, but there is always that not knowing thing.” He smiles at Brian. “It was horrible wondering if I would ever see you again, even though I knew in my heart I would, but the waiting…” This time the kiss is less a show of ravishment but still with the same passion.

“At the risk of lightening the mood, can we enjoy ourselves now? We have things to celebrate!” I order lifting my glass. “To Esmeralda Skyes!”

“To Esmeralda Skyes!” They chorus back, and I feel a little less sadness at saying my parents’ middle names.

DINER - NEXT DAY, LATE MORNING

DEBS

I just look at the gaggle of giggling twinks that want to sit in the back booth, and they wisely change their minds and sit at the next one. Just as they sit, in comes Ben and Drew Boyd! Drew Boyd is in my diner! I clutch the counter, blink a couple of times, and take a deep breath.

“Good morning, Ben!” I squeak, and go crimson. “Well, so much for coolness in the face of celebrity! I’m Debs. I know he’s not…”

“His ex’s mother. Nice to meet you. I have a question for you…” I am in shock. “...I am kinda hanging here.” I look down and brush his hand aside and pull him into a hug. “Okay, you're a hugger! He said that!”

“You’re Drew Boyd, I am not going to miss an opportunity to grab a handful! Now sit down, and what did you want to ask me?” I shuttle them into the booth.

“You have a cock tee. I would like one. Could you get one for me, please? You can understand what would happen if I...obviously I will pay you back. Uh, Debs? Debs? Are you alright?”

The next time I open my eyes, I am resting on someone’s chest. “She's coming around.” A voice floats to me. “Can you sit up?” Someone is stroking my arm gently. “Sis, can you sit up? Drink this.” I look at the ‘this’ and it is a glass of water.

Slowly I sit up and take the glass. “What happened?”

“You fainted.” Vic explains peering closely at me. “Seems that Drew asking you for a cock was a little overwhelming for your delicate constitution.”

“I didn’t dream that?” The chest I am leaning against rumbles, and I look up and start to move away. “I guess that answers my question.”

“So will you answer mine?” Drew pulls me back against his chest.

“Large?” I rally some Debness.

“Both the tee and the cock?” Ben teases, and Drew licks his lips and we wait for his answer.

“One is bigger than the other, but yes they are both large.”

“Aunt Debs! You okay?” Mercy flies to the booth and grabs my hand.

“I am fine honey, just got overheated that’s all. Calm down, okay?” She takes a couple of steadying breaths and then nods before mutely handing her keys to Brian.

“You are going to have to learn how to park it yourself.” He grouses good naturedly, and gets up. “But in fairness, this time you had a good excuse. Won’t be…” His phone beeping stops him and the smile says this is a good thing, a very good thing. “...they’ve finally roused him and will be here in five minutes. Won’t be long. We're going to need that booth too.”

“Stay there, Debs! I'll sort the booths and breakfasts!” Kiki calls out, and I settle back down. “How many are expected?” She looks at Ben who is counting off on his fingers.

“I got twelve including Vic and Debs.” He replies, and then the bell rings. “No, make it 14. Ted, over here!”

“Who is that?” I ask as Ted comes up with a cute blonde.

“Blake.” Ben grins. “He met him on holiday and brought him to the dinner. Blake, this is Debs and her brother, Vic.”

“Nice to meet you both.” He shakes our hands.

“Well aren’t you polite? If you two secure that booth, then we will start uh…” Vic pauses as Mercy puts a large Gucci bag on the table. “...what is that?”

“A present, and until everyone is here it is not going to be opened.”

“What do you mean?” I stare hard at her. “I know that look. What have you done?!” I demand, and try to sit up, but am held tighter by an Ironman. “Mercy, you haven’t?!”

“No I haven’t!” She doesn’t look at me squarely in the eye, nor does she look at Vic.

“Oh, come on, honey, no!” He exclaims when he catches on. “That’s surely not for…”

“Morning all!” Michael chirrups as he comes up, he stops, gapes and then frowns. “Why are you holding my mother, Mr Boyd?”

“Because she fainted.” He clips out.

“I’m Michael.” He puts his hand out with a toothy smile.

“I know, sorry can’t shake, have hands full.”

“Ma can sit up now, surely?” He looks meaningfully at me with his smile beginning to slip.

“Concern over my wellbeing is such a warm comforting blanket, Michael.”

“I’m not concerned, you are obviously alright but are taking advantage of Mr Boyd’s good…”

“Chest. He has such a good and comfortable chest.” I make a point of burrowing back, and I see the flash of annoyance. “He wants me to get him a cock for his…”

“Mother!” He cringes, and two things happen; one, Mercy tenses up, and two, Brian comes back.

“Oh shit, this is going to be a goatfuck.” Vic sighs as Mercy gets into position, like a cobra about to strike. “Is there anyway…” He pleads quietly, we all breathe when she reluctantly nods and sits back.

“Kiki, can you get Brian some...” Ben begins but it’s too late, the Kinney Volcano is about to erupt.

“What are you doing here?” He gets within an inch of Michael’s feet so he wisely steps back.

“I am here to speak to Mercy to find out how the evening went…”

“Better than this morning. You being here has seen to that.”

“Hey...oh, what is he doing here?!” Justin grumbles as he gets into the booth next to Mercy, and that causes her to relax a bit more. “How come you get a cuddle, Debs?”

“You should address an unintroduced adult by their salutation and their surname when you meet them for the first time.” Michael rebukes him primly.

“I have met him, Michael, now go and sit by the counter, there is no room for you here.” I hope and pray he’s not going to do his barnacle impression now!

“Oh, I didn't know…” He glowers at Brian as he nudges him further away from the booth to sit next to Justin. “...so Mercy, how was it? I heard the big news, this is awesome for us!”

VIC

Us? What us? Debs and I watched the awards last night, and we can’t wait to see how it turns out, but first we have to head him off at the pass, as I can hear her temper beginning to rise. “Michael, you weren’t there last night. George Schickel said those here assembled or something like that, which means that you won’t be involved.”

“Of course I will!” He asserts, and tries to sit down, but he’s stopped by Brian swiftly moving to the end. “Brian, I would like to sit down!”

“And you’re not picking up by our words and deeds that we don’t want you to do that?” A blonde replies, and hands Mercy her keys back. “A spot came free next to mine, so moved it.”

“Oh, okay, thanks.”

“Is everyone here now?!” Kiki demands, signalling a busboy.

“Hold up, who are you?” I ask, pointing at the blonde.

“This is Chris, he’s…”

“More than capable of introducing myself!” Chris snaps. “As he said, I’m Chris and this is my girlfriend, Daphne. You have got to be Vic and Debs, you look just as she described you.”

“Who described us?”

“Mercy did. She told us about her life here and then in London. How great you were when her parents died.”

“Shame the same could not be said for her so-called best friend.” Ben bites out.

Ah, this has been a long coming, and now’s a good a time as any! But once again, not a flicker of recognition or contrition from him!

“I don’t see why I can’t be involved. I have extensive knowledge of the comic book world, and…”

“It is not going to be a comic though, it’s going to be a live animation movie and you know nothing about that, though this won’t stop you from being an ultracrapidarian about it.” Brian glowers up at him.

“Crep, not crap.” Mercy smirks.

“Huh?” Brian frowns.

“Who is crep, not crap?” Emmett asks, as he comes up with a distinguished older gentlemen. They both scowl at Michael. “Though I can guess. Vic and Debs, this is my new friend, George Schickel, and these two ladies behind are Leda and Mel. Are the two booths ours, and can someone explain why she is using Drew Boyd as a pillow?”

We quickly catch them up, and then the silence descends. “So let’s order and discuss our next move!” Michael declares, and after another pointed look at Brian goes and sits in the next booth.

“You need an NDA to sit there.” Brian calls over his shoulder.

“An NDA? What are you…”

“You are not part of Esmeralda Skyes, therefore you cannot be privy to a conversation about it or its future projects.”

“This is ridiculous. Mercy, tell them how much of an asset…” Michael begins to justify

“Be like ET, take off those letters and go home, and you have described yourself perfectly.” Brian cuts him off.

“Can everyone just stop?” Mercy exclaims. “Let him stay.”

“Let him stay?” Brian echoes, and Michael swaggers smugly up to the booth. “Are you…”

“Yes, sometimes you just have to give in. Let him sit too.” Brian slowly moves up. Nobody can understand this sudden switch. “Can we flipping present this now?”

MICHAEL

I knew it! I knew she would want me on board! Nobody knows Mercy like I do!

“Is that from last night?” I ask excitedly, reaching for it. “Who is it for?”

“People who couldn’t be there last night.” Mercy replies with a smile.

“People? What do you mean…” I stutter to a stop as she slides it towards Uncle Vic and Ma.

“We all contributed a piece. Open! Open!”

“One second, what’s the crep vs crap thing?” Ma demands moving the bag further out of my reach.

“Oh, Brian called him an ultracrapidarian and it should be ultracrepidarian. Means someone who goes on and on about stuff they don’t know as much about as they think.” Brian stares at me the whole time during her explanation. “Now open!”

I can feel my face heat as I take in the wallets, the spa vouchers, the jewellery, champagne, toiletries and vouchers they pull out. “So, everyone got this?” I reach for the watch, but Uncle Vic slaps my hand away. “Ouch! What was that for?!”

“Do not touch, these are not for you!” He retorts, and moves both boxes out of reach. Then pulls out two more envelopes. “What’s in here?”

“Now these are very special. Plane tickets.”

“Plane tickets!” I gasp. “Where to?!”

“London!” Uncle Vic exclaims having opened the envelope. “Oh my goodness.”

“Yeah, you can go see my folks, and...”

“Oh honey, that would be wonderful!” Ma sniffs and I roll my eyes.

“How much are the tickets, and when are we going?” I interrupt with a sigh. “I hope it's not too much, unless you can put mine on the company expenses. It’s a shame that you can’t come with us, you two, but this is business, and we don’t mix business with pleasure, do we, Mercy?”

“Can we please just go or I will seriously be sick!” Ben demands, and Ma and Drew get up to let him out.

“What’s got you so upset?!” I am surprised by his show of temper, and then look at Brian and Justin basically copulating with their tongues. “Oh, I see what you mean. Time and place means nothing to some people!”

“No it doesn’t, does it. Now Ben, sit down, please.” Mercy orders, and as he slowly does the rest follow suit. “We are going to order and eat and then after that we’re going to talk about the project.”

DEBS

I exchange looks with Vic and then with Brian, what the hell is Mercy up to?!

“But before we do that, you need to sign the NDA and then provide the collateral.”

“Collateral? What do you mean?” Michael’s cup pauses and Brian’s frown starts to turn upside down.

“Uh huh. Everyone has provided personal collateral to be in this project, you know to show their commitment. People can't just rock up, claim bestie and crepidarian rights and think that’s it. We need collateral of at least $100K not cash, something they won't risk losing.”

“A hundred…” He blinks rapidly.

“What do you have that is worth that? This is a fast moving project, the collateral needs to be placed in trust by Wednesday.”

“What could you give her?!” Vic exclaims almost dripping with relief.

“His store.” Brian is glowing with malevolence. “It is worth at least that if not more. He can put that down, he has run it impeccably.”

“My store…”

Mercy sits back and sips her coffee then smiles the way she used to when she was a kid playing poker, knowing she has a winning hand. “Well now isn’t that ironically perfect. You want in, I want that.”

CHAPTER 14 - HIM BEING HIM DOESN’T MAKE IT OKAY! AND A LITTLE MORE ABOUT BRIAN

MICHAEL

“What about them?” I point at the teenagers.

“What about them?” Mercy retorts, twirling a straw.

“Where’d they get their collateral from?”

“Rich parents have their advantages.” Chris returns with a smile.

“But how so quickly? It was only announced yesterday, so…”

“The wider world heard about it yesterday, they knew before then.” Brian feeds his twinky monkey, rather appropriately, some nuts.

“Okay, so that’s what needs to happen, let’s go.” Mercy stands up and nudges Monkey Boy and his Feeder.

“But must it be my store though? Can’t it be something else?” I protest, remaining where I am.

“What else do you have?” Mercy sits back down and there is sighing as everyone else does the same.

“The house.”

“What house? You rent your house.” Ben frowns.

“Not that house, the house that Uncle Vic and Ma are in. That can be used as collateral. It is coming to me anyway.”

“Is it now?” Uncle Vic looks annoyed. “And when did you read our wills?”

“I didn’t! That's private. Besides, who else would you leave the house to, after each other, there is only me.”

“Your arrogance knows no bounds.” Uncle Vic rolls his eyes at Ma. “Besides, if we put up the collateral then it is us that are on the project not you.”

“What?”

“Mercy said that…”

“I know what she said, Uncle Vic, I am here!”

“Then the shame is twofold: one for being here, and the other for not listening again.” Ben snaps, and I can’t understand, since he dumped me, why he is being, for want of a better word, a wanker.

“I was listening, Benjamin…” I know he hates to have his whole name used. “...all I mean is that they can sign the house over to me now instead of when they pass, then I can give that as collateral for Mercy.”

“No.” Ma doesn’t even look up from the watch she’s checking out. “Like Mercy said, you want in, you give her that. Now until such time as that comes to pass, this project is a no-go zone while you are present. So, Mercy, why not go home and discuss it there?”

“Oh come on! I am not going to say anything to…”

“You admitted you would when you thought it was just Brian on the project, so yeah, let’s take it to my place and talk there.” Mercy stands up and prods Brian and his pet to move and he almost shoves me to the floor.

“There was no need for that!” I object as I stand up.

“There was every need.” Justin smirks. “Shame you never landed on your ass...et.”

“Come on, y’all, let’s just go.” Mercy sighs.

“I will meet you afterwards. How long do you think you will be, Mercy?” I relish this moment.

“Meet me afterwards where?”

“Your house?”

“My house? How do you even know where I live?”

“Justin told me.” I frown. “Was it supposed to be a secret? Now that’s not very good is it?”

“I did not tell you! I, thankfully, haven’t seen you since…”

“Are there recordings for this place, Aunt Debs? If so, can I see them?” Mercy bites out, glaring at Justin, and Brian doesn’t look impressed either...pity about that!

“Sure, come with me honey.” Ma leads Mercy to the office. A minute later Uncle Vic follows, taking the bag with him.

“I did not tell him her address!” Justin repeats.

“Then how do I know it?” I question.

“Justin, when was the last time you were in the diner?!” Ma calls out.

“Yesterday! I never saw you! I didn’t, Brian, I promise I never gave him her address!”

Brian says nothing, and for the next ten minutes nobody else does. The door to the office opens and Mercy, Ma and Uncle Vic come out. “So am I meeting you at your place or not?”

“Not.” Mercy replies tightly. “Seriously, stay away. I am so pissed at you right now!”

“And she’s not the only one!” Ma barks and slaps me on the back of my head. “I thought you would’ve grown out of that shit!”

“What shit?” Ben asks.

“I will explain at home.” Mercy shouts over her shoulder and strides out, they swiftly follow.

“You are not kids anymore.” Uncle Vic snaps, and then he too smacks me on the back of my head.

What is wrong with people?! If she had given me her address like I asked then I wouldn’t have had to follow him! If anyone deserves a head slap it's her for being so stubborn!

MERCY’S HOUSE - AN HOUR LATER

LOUNGE

MERCY

I sip my whisky and shake my head at an about-to-speak Leda.

“He Horarce’d you.” I tell a hand-wringing Justin.

“He harassed me? When?”

“Not harassed. Horace’d.” I wave the bottle and to the one, everyone nods, I look at Leda and she mouths small. “He followed you, Chris and Daph out of the diner and most likely to your house and waited, and then to my house. Hence him knowing where I live.”

The room is silent, then people start to wince and cringe. “What does that mean?” Chris demands, heading to the window and closing the curtains. “Horace’d I mean?”

“Open them back up please. He can watch if he’s out there!” That at least raises a titter or two. “Billy Horace was my first boyfriend, and Michael wanted to come on our first date but I said no. He seemingly accepted that and all was good until it was date time; Mom spotted him lurking and took him home.”

“I don’t…” Leda looks around and I huff a breath.

“He knew where Billy lived and the day of the date, so he waited for him to head to said date...and followed him.”

There is silence for a few seconds before Justin explodes.

“That is fucking creepy! You mean he was in the diner and overheard the conversation and…seriously that is all sorts of…”

“Michael.” I supply.

“Doesn’t make it right.” Mel growls. She knows my childhood friendship with the leech as she tends to call him. “Just because he does this…”

“Does he know where I live?” Brian asks Ben who looks stunned. “Ben, has he ever followed you?”

“I don’t know. He couldn’t have done. Surely not.” He trails off.

“No he doesn’t. He tends to announce his achievements, in his own subtle way, like he did just now.” I top everyone’s glass up and then really take in their expressions. “He’s also not as smart as he thinks.”

“How’d you mean?” Brian is looking around, and when he spots the humidor, grins and gets it, then he looks at Mel. “Are you okay with this?”

“Yeah, I will just sit by the window. Now what do you mean, Mercy?” She cracks it open and then inhales deeply. “Love the smell of roses. Sorry continue.”

“Billy and I dated for three years and he never knew.” I still get a thrill about this and smile in the face of their confusion. “After the first date we had a spectacular row in school and swore our hatred of each other. Michael was so very sad about the demise of relationship after just the one date.” I raise my glass. “Dad’s idea. Said that we should pretend to hate each other and then date…”

“Behind his back?” Justin sniggers.

“How old were you?”

“Thirteen. We broke up, amicably, when I was sixteen. Yep, we had a long distance relationship. He married one of my friends from England. Has two kids. It was love at first sight for both of them. Sweet.”

“Nathaniel Skyes Parker.” Emmett comes from the bathroom looking incredulous. “Your father was Nathaniel Skyes Parker?!”

“Yip.”

“The Balloon Over Water?!” Chris exclaims. “That Nathaniel Skyes Parker?!”

“Yip. He was working on it before he died and I finished it. Went to school, learned the craft, and here I am!”

Now I am squirming as they are all staring at me, well apart from George, Mel and Leda who knew who dad was.

“You won an Oscar.” Daph gapes at me.

“Dad did, I just pretty bowed it.” Once again I grimace. “And that’s another thing I will never forgive him for.”

“Pretty bowed it.” Leda scoffs as she always does when the Oscar is mentioned. “It was good before, you made it awesome.”

“Who won’t you forgive?” Ems is looking very comfortable next to George.

“Michael. He phoned up after dad won to say congratulations to him, he actually asked to speak to him so he could give them personally.”

“But that was a postu…” Mel shudders. “You never told me that.”

“Too painful. Luckily, my Uncle spoke to him, said never to contact me again. First time I have seen and spoken to him.”

“When was the last time you saw him?” Brian selects two cigars and puts them both in his pocket before lighting another one up.

“Sixteen years ago. Now onto more pleasant subjects, baby shower! We are not having it at Spago’s! So don’t even ask!”

“Is that where you met?” Daph clips the end of the cigar and hands it to Chris, who looks at her with such lust, love, whatever, it cements my decision.

“No, that was in a bar. She was at one end and Mel and I the other. We met in the middle.”

“Nathaniel Skyes Parker.” Justin is wide eyed. “Shit. My Mom was devastated when he died, she will make it priority and put her best man on it. Won’t be a second.” He heads outside closing the door gently behind him.

“You changed your name?” Drew asks, swirling the glass in his hand.

“Just dropped the Parker. I wasn’t in the media at all, so it was…”

“As a matter of interest, why didn’t you collect the Oscar?” Brian unpeels the cigar with a knowing smile.

“I look like this.” I gesture at my face. “People tend to stare at the best of times. Imagine them knowing who my dad was as well.”

“Mom said she’s going to get Carl to look into it.” Justin declares as he comes back in. Brian pats between his legs and he sits down. “When are you going to London? He can meet you there.”