JFK - EIGHTEEN MONTHS LATER

DEPARTURES LOUNGE

NANCY

We are this close to freedom! In the last two years, Lindsay has kept her head down, and, as they say in those parlances, her nose and powder dry! I scan the sea of people waiting for her return from the ladies room. However, it is when I see her that my heart plunges to the depths of hell as, not only is Faal with her but also Ronald! But for some reason Lindsay has an expression of delight on her face!

“What’s going on?!” I demand as quietly as I can.

“Come along, Mother, we will explain on the way!” Lindsay trills as she clutches Faal’s arm.

“Ronald?” I prompt.

“Nancy. Are we waiting for anyone else for you, like Marcel for instance?!” I feel a thrill at his jealous tone. Well, if he had treated me kinder and as a lady of my position was supposed to be treated, I would not have sought affection and prestige elsewhere. “Ah, there she is...over here, darling!” He waves behind me and I stiffen but don’t turn around. “Did you find it?”

“Easily, Ronald.” A cool French accent floats from behind me and Lindsey's face is a picture of annoyance, but I refuse to turn around. He must introduce me to her! “Shall I meet you at home? You won’t be long speaking to it will you?”

Home?! It?!

“No, I won’t be a few minutes. Do you want to meet…”

“Mais non. Why would I wish to do that? I shall see you by the car.”

“Okay.”

I fume as an expensive looking fur coat glides past me. “All coat and no knickers I suspect!” I spit at Ronald, but before he can answer the coat stops, Lindsay and I smirk at each other.

“My silk knickers are always on, and when they are off it is only for Ronald or so I can piss on the insipid mitherings of past conquests. I, unlike you, Nancy, don't wear granny panties, nor do I drop them at whiff of a wallet!” Is declared over the shoulder before it disappears from view.

I blanch as people turn to took in my direction; a couple of them sneer.

“Let’s go before you embarrass yourself further, Nancy!” Faal snickers and strides ahead with Lindsay running to keep up with him.

“Carried off with your usual dignity and aplomb.” Ronald laughs, and he too leaves me standing there for a few seconds open mouthed.

PRIVATE HANGER, JFK - TWENTY MINUTES LATER

LINDSAY

You could’ve knocked me down with a feather when I first heard from Faal. Of all the people to contact me, he would not have been the first to come to mind. But here we are! I take a discreet look at his left hand  and, thank you Jesus, the ring has gone!

“Faal, can you please explain what is going on?!” Mother demands, and, for once, I can’t believe her density!

“Excuse us a moment  Faal.” I take Mother’s wrist and pull her out of his earshot.

“Lindsay!”

“He came to see me in jail. He and Zaden are over, or they will be! Turns out he had feelings for me after all…” I tap my wedding ring finger. “...his is gone!”

“What?!” She looks delighted. “So do you think…”

“Well why else would he be here?!”

“But your father turning up like that?” She quickly check to see what Faal is doing, he is looking over the plane. “And with his harlot too!”

“Not sure about that, but…”

“Ladies, we need to board!” Faal calls out, and we quickly join him. “I will leave you to say your goodbyes.”

“Our goodbyes?” Mother echoes and my heart beats faster. “Faal, what is going on?”

“I am taking Lindsay with me to a place only she and I know. I need her there to provide what is needed in our home?”

“You and Lindsay are going to be together?”

“Yes, it was only a matter of time before I saw what I truly needed to do. I understand you will be going with Marcel to London for a couple of weeks before settling back in his hometown.”

NANCY

I can't quite comprehend how this has come about, but I am thrilled! Oh, don't think me callous, she is my daughter after all, but I have enjoyed the free years I have had with Marcel, and on top of that, the divorce from Ronald came through, and that full and final settlement, which is $70,000 more than she knows about is mine and mine alone! Faal can support her!

“Well,  darling, you're going to be just fine and I am so happy for you!” I hug her tightly and blink back the tears of sadness and joy. “Will you write when you get there, which is where by the way? He said you and he know.”

“Oh yes, Mother, we’re going to be living on his island, just off the coast of South Africa.”

“Africa?! Why there?!”

“As you know these things take time to be finalised. I mean, look how long it took for you and Daddy to divide up your things. And besides, Faal doesn't want Zaden knowing yet. We have to keep things hush-hush.”

“Oh, I see. Well, when do you think you will be back? Or maybe I can come and visit you once you are settled?”

“Maybe. If I recall from the pictures, Faal, the island is big enough for us not to get in each other’s way.” He nods and then looks at his watch. “Mother. Sorry, but we have to go!”

We hug each other one more time and she trots up the steps, then the door shuts on her new life with Faal.

TWO HOURS LATER

LINDSAY

I reread the email again, it is perfect. I have experienced almost two of the worst years of my life, but now I am on the way to a life I deserve. I look across at Faal who is sleeping, he truly is a gorgeous man. I hope to consummate our relationship soon, and when it is out in the open, I look forward to describing to Zaden exactly what we do in bed. And I can't wait to be a mother again. Yes, I will have to share with her, but I will have that child cultured in no time.

“Do you want some more champagne?”

“Madam. You must call me Madam when you speak to me, and yes I would. In fact, leave the bottle.”

“Yes, Madam. Will there be anything else?”

“Not yet. I have some correspondence to send, once I have done that you can bring me a light snack, something that doesn't clash with the champagne. I will call you when I am ready.”

I wave him away and look at the email to Michael again. It is a pity I won't get to see his face when he reads it.

ISLAND - TWO DAYS LATER

FAAL

It is good to be on the island at this time of year. I chuckle as DJ, my adorable daughter rushes towards me, well as fast as her little legs can go.

“Daddy! Look!” She holds up a slightly crumpled flower. “For you!”

“Thank you, sweetie.” I take it from her and wrap it in my handkerchief, ready for pressing in my book later. Zaden always laughed at that. I shake my head to clear the sad thought over what has happened as I walk to the house Lindsay calls my name, I wait for her to as she approaches. “Good morning!”

“Morning. Did you sleep well?”

“Very. After almost two years of virtually sleeping on concrete, it was like sleeping on a cloud! Oh, who is this pretty cherub?!”

“This is our daughter..” I heft her onto my hip. “...DJ. Well, her proper name is Deborah Jennifer Carla, but Jenny shortened that...is it okay to talk about them?”

“Yes.” She sighs before smiling and reaching for DJ, who shrinks back. “Are you shy, darling one? Don't worry, you will soon get used to me.”

“Maddie, Daddy, want Maddie.” She plays with my hair and I am so reminded of her mother.

“Yes. Go on, you little bug.” I put her down and she gives Lindsay one more look before scampering off.

“Do you still see them? Gus and Jenny, I mean. You never mentioned them in your visits?” She touches my arm gently.

“Yes, but not as often as I did before, what with everyone being so busy.”

“And Zaden? Brian and Justin?”

“Let's not discuss Zaden, still too painful, but Brian and Justin are doing great. They are really happy. DJ and Megan are the best of friends.”

“Who is Megan?”

“Oh, you wouldn't know of course, their daughter.” I link arms with her and lead her back to the house. “You must be starving, let's eat.”

“I am a bit, but I really do need to send that email first. I was so tired I fell asleep before I could hit send on the plane.”

“Sure. You go do that and I shall meet you in the dining room. As you come down the stairs, it is the second door on the right. As there is a nice breeze, why don't we eat on the verandah?”

“As usual, Faal, you are perfect.” She praises me and goes go her room.

TEN MINUTES LATER

LINDSAY

Now the email is perfect! I read it once more, I enjoyed every keystroke telling Michael about how I am back in the lives of Brian and Justin, and how close their daughter and my soon to be stepdaughter are, now that they have forgiven me. How Gus, Hunter, Matt, Jenny and I are rebuilding our relationship. I expressed sympathy that despite my best efforts they did not want to know him still. I had already given full and frank details of how Faal and I got together, maybe he can use that to get off all alone in his cell!

“Lindsay!” Faal calls from the landing. “Do you want salad or steamed vegetables with your king prawns?”

“Oh, vegetables please, I haven't had properly cooked food in ages!” I call back.

“Okay, will you be much longer?”

No. Am sending it now, I will just freshen up and be down in a few minutes.”

“Fine.”

I skip to the bathroom and take a good look at myself. I really do need a good facial and massage, I wonder how long it would take to arrange. As I head down to join him, the combination of the smell of the flowers and the food have me almost giddy with delight.

“There you are. Come and sit.”

“Will DJ be joining us?”

“No, she will eat later, she’s still playing.”

“In this heat?” I stand up and smile indulgently at him. “Let me go and get her, it will give us a moment to get to know each other.”

“She is used to the heat, please sit and eat, we have much to discuss afterwards.”

“Of course.” I take in the spread in front me and sigh happily. “Where to start?”

“The ceviche is very good, beef and truffle.”

“You always did have exceptional taste.” I grin and start to serve myself.

“No, Lindsay, we have people for that.” He gives a cough and smartly dressed young man comes in. “Show her how it is done, Maru.”

“Yes, Master Faal.”

Oh yes this is the life!

An hour later we are in the spacious lounge; I am marvelling at my good fortune and briefly close my eyes so I can absorb it fully. They fly open at the cough and find Faal smiling at me.

“Are you still in shock at how this has happened?”

“A little, I must admit. So what happens now?”

“Well, first…”

“You kiss the shit out of me!” Is declared, and I find myself gaping at Zaden!

“My lig! What the hell?! You said you couldn't make it!” He rushes to her and kisses her so passionately that I have to look away, the noise of them unlocking lips is nauseating. “Explain, Zee, does DJ know you are here?”

“Yep. And she would be upset with her Daddy since he didn't pack it.” She hands him a notebook and again he kisses her.

“What is going on here? I demand an explanation!”

“You owe us money, so you are going to pay it.” She looks scornfully at me and then I see what I thought I mistook in Faal’s eyes earlier, contempt and disgust. “We let you think you were getting what you wanted, as in Faal, so we could get you out here to work off your debt.” I stare at them incredulously. “Oh, you were such a little Madam on the plane, I was half tempted to roll it just for fun! But since…”

“You little minx, wait till I get you back home!” He laughs before sweeping his gaze coldly over me. “Get out of the seat now! Maddie!” He shouts, and I almost sit back down in shock as Madea steps in the room. “You remember her, don't you, Lindsay? She did you a kindness by reporting the assault by Michael. She will be your boss.”

“My...just a minute, why am I owing you money? My debt is with Talon…” I look to the door, and, willing her to come in...my prayers go unanswered.

“Nope, we paid her, so now you pay us….just like the court said you should.” Zee smirks. “Oh, and if you are wondering about this place, allow me to shine some lig, I mean light for you. This is the servants’ quarters, the room you were nesting in is Maru’s, he graciously allowed you to have a taste of luxury before you start at the bottom rung of a very long ladder!”

“I want to leave right now, this is kidnapping!”

“No it isn't, you and your throbbing loins got here willingly, we’re in security remember and can provide evidence to support that. And you can leave if you wish, I have no problem taking you back to the States.”

“Then that is what I want!” I snarl and stalk to the door. “This was…”

“Where you will be arrested and put back in jail to finish off the rest of your sentence...” Faal calls out and I slowly turn around. “...or don't you remember promising not to leave the country without informing the authorities first?”

“They tend to take a dim view of that kind of lie.” Madea pulls out her phone. “I have no problem, calling them for you, again.”

“This is just swapping one prison for another, isn't it?” I quaver as the full magnitude of my lack of options hits me.

“It is a better prison.” Zaden smarms. “Just think of all the glorious sunshine and the life skills you will gain. We will, of course, provide excellent references, depending on your aptitude for the job. Unlike McCandless, there will be nobody to do your job for you.”

“So I am to be your fetch and carry girl?”

“Good god, no, you will not be anywhere near us or DJ. You will be a dienskneg here while we go back home.” I start to look at the positives of no Zaden and being this tropical island. I look at Faal with scorn. “You'll be busy though so you won't get much time to enjoy it, what with your training and all.”

“So which member of your family will be lording it over me?”

“Temper-temper, Lindsay, learn to curb that tongue, we don't want complaints before you start now do we?” My jaw drops as my father and his harlot walk in. “I have to say, Zee, it is exquisite. How could you have given it up?”

“The lure of lucre proved too much. Besides, we just didn't use it enough to justify keeping it.” She smiles, and embraces first him and then her. “Now this is your dienskneg for the duration of your…”

“Stop calling me that! I am not a whatever it is that means!” I still the tremble of my hands by balling my fists.

“Servant. It means servant.” The harlot replies. “Now take our cases, my husband and I wish to see our rooms.”

“Husband?! Mother never said you remarried! And why were you at the airport anyway?!”

“Why should she, it is none of her business, she has Marcel now, and this is our honeymoon. Now to our rooms, please.”

“Rooms? What rooms?” I demand, still reeling at what has just transpired.

“In the hotel on the other side of the island.”

“Hotel?”

“Yep.” Faal kisses the side of Zaden’s neck. “You see, we sold the island to a hotel chain, and you work for them. They will pay your wage to us.”

“Just so there is no confusion or missed payments.” Zaden adds.

“What will I live on?!”

“They will give you enough for that, you won't need much considering the job comes with room and board.

“But how will I know when I have paid you back?!” I wail as tears threaten to fall.

“You will get your passport back and be free to fuck off under your own cognisance.” She takes a couple of steps towards me and I just about hold my ground. “Now wipe those fuck she beat me again tears, pick the cases up and go do the job you are almost being paid for!”

BRITIN - A DAY LATER

MASTER BEDROOM

JUSTIN

“Mmmm!” Floats down from the top of the bed and I slowly release my favourite cock. “No-no-no more…”

“No, no more, you have already dawdled with a lie in, no more taking advantage of Megan being with her grandparents. We have to set up the office. I can finish this there if you get out of bed now.”

“I don't take office for six months, why are we setting up now?” He grumbles and wiggles his hips.

“Soon-to-be-Councillor Brian Taylor-Kinney, get up now! And you know why, I have a show just before and this way I can come from that straight to help you on your first official day!” I get out of bed and whip the sheets off and firmly tug on his arm. “I mean it, Brian, get up!”

“Oh, alright!” He swings his gorgeous legs out of bed then pulls me to his chest; I feel him throbbing against my stomach. “A shower…” He trails off hopefully. “...I mean you can't seriously be going to leave me like this?!”

“A shower blow job and a slow-screw in the office, we’re going to get into monster traffic if we...Brian!” I squeal as he upends me over his shoulder and strides to the bathroom laughing, so I swat his delicious butt. “You sex maniac!”

“Of course I am!” He snickers, and then does an about face when his phone beeps. He reads in silence before putting me on the floor. “It worked. Lindsay thought that Faal and Zee had split up and followed him like a drone to the island!”

“Told you it would!” I crow, having given them the idea, I once told his ex-bestie that Brian was somewhere he wasn't just so we could be alone. He got banned from the club for refusing to believe that Brian wasn't there, and by the time he came back to Woody's we were on our way to Thailand! “What’s wrong?” He is frowning at the screen.

“The email Lindsay sent to Michael, she bigs it up a lot.”

“So. He’s in prison, what can he do? Now about that blow job…”

MASTER BATHROOM

JUSTIN

I hold in my chuckle as he gasps; his eyes flutter briefly shut before he licks his lips and blows me a kiss. “You’re not getting too old for a double are you?” I tease him, and he gives my butt a stinging swat. “That would be a no then?”

“Twat.” He smiles then kisses me while twirling his fingers in my pubes. “You need to shave. Come on, let me get you smooth.” We step out of the shower and dry each other before he loads up the old fashioned bristle brush with soap and beard oil then pulls out the razor blade. “You know, shaving your face and your dick with my Sweeney Todd razor is my one way of keeping you still.” We lock eyes and he smiles. “So which first, dick or face?”

“Dick. And do you think they share the same brain?” I shiver as he whirls the brush in my bush.

“Who?” He murmurs as he sits on the seat and takes my cock in his hands.

“Lin...Lindsay and Michael. I...I mean, I knew it would wor…” I pause as he kisses my tip. “...I just didn’t think she would be taken in so easily.”

“They not only share a brain, but are dick-driven. Especially when the dick has money. Spread legs, please. Now remind me again how you got us to Thailand and dickhead free.”

Start of flashback

THE LOFT - SEVEN YEARS PRIOR

MAIN BATHROOM

JUSTIN

I can’t breathe! I am currently in the bathroom, with a towel stuffed in my mouth, listening to Michael wail to Brian about the unfairness of him being barred from the second best club in Pittsburgh after Babylon!

“Michael, as I said, I don’t control their door policy so I can’t make them unbar you! What were you doing screaming outside it anyway?!”

“I was not screaming!” He shrieks. “I was trying to explain to the ape on the door that I had to come in…hold a minute, how did you know I was yelling?”

“You just told me.” I so want to leap out and kiss him because he is covering for me. We’ve just got back from Thailand and I haven't  had a chance to explain how I got us gone without Michael either trying to invite himself or guilting him into not going. He was so very grateful and didn't want to hear his name during the holiday!

“I did?” I can hear the idiot frowning.

“Yes you did. You said, ‘I was outside demanding to be let in’, and…”

“Oh. Oh well, yeah, and they said you weren’t there.”

“And I wasn’t.” Brian sighs.

“So how was your two week roadshow trip? Did you sign any clients? Where were you again? Oh, and where is Boy Wonder? Out I suppose, trying to be like you but failing!”

“In the order of importance; Justin is at an art exhibition...”

Again, I have to hold myself back; he said in order of importance, and first was me!

“So we can hang out then?! I’ll order pizza and…”

“Eat it at home with your husband and child.”

“Huh, what do you mean?”

“I mean, I am going to join him at the exhibition in an hour.”

“So we have an hour of best…”

“I have to get ready; so go home to Stepford Fagsville and hang with your husband. I am not going to keep Sunshine waiting because you pitched a bitch fit when you couldn’t find me!”

“Your Sunshine told me that’s where you were going to be!”

“And I was, but up to a certain time, then that time passed!”

“So you were there?!” His tone is accusatory.

“Yes, but not at the time you were screeching like a virgin in a brothel!

“How do you know?! It was over two weeks ago!”

“I know where I am always! Now go home  Michael, I need to get ready and you know how long it takes me. Besides, I want to look perfect for my man!” I hear the tread of his annoyed stomp as he comes to the bathroom, then sweeps me into a passionate kiss. I smile as the loft door slams shut. “Hang on a second…” He whispers and opens the door slightly. “...Michael, if you are still in here, we will have a major problem!”

“I’m just calling Ben!”

“Do that from the other side of the frigging door!”

“Fine!”

The door slams again and he heads back out. I hear him put the latch on and then his swift steps back into the bathroom. “Shush!” He orders and carries me chuckling to the bedroom. He kisses me all the way into a supine position, then twirls his fingers through my hair. “He is most likely standing outside with his ear pressed to the door...so you are going to have to be extra quiet.”

“Did you have a nice time?” I murmur as he kisses along my collarbone.

“Two weeks of glorious sunshine and my Sunshine in nothing but a sarong on a private beach? No, I had an excellent time, well apart from getting sand in places it really had no right to be. But the next time you want to trick Michael into something give me a heads up.” I grin at him. “And how much did you pay?”

“Pay?” I grin wider.

“Uh huh. How much did you pay the management to ban him from our second favourite nightclub?”

“A thousand bucks.”

“Money well spent. Now let me thank you again for your ingenuity…”

End of flashback

My cock and balls are now hair free, and he takes out the set he uses on my face. His phone beeps again. He reads it in silence then pushes the shaving kit to one side before leaning against the sink. “Brian?”

“Ben said he and Steve would start the set up and if I didn't reply he would assume that was fine. So let me feel how close that shave is.”

COUNCILLOR OFFICE, OFF LIBERTY AVENUE - NINETY MINUTES LATER

BEN

“I think it is safe to say they’re leaving us to it.” I chuckle, and Steve nods. “You okay?”

He frowns. “I know we are in enlightened times, but the lack of protests about Brian being their new Councilman is unnerving.”

“I see what you mean to a degree, but Brian is and always has been out and proud, he is known for that. He has an ever growing business, and it stands to reason that he would set up his office near the place he’s proudest of.”

“Hmm, I suppose so.” He looks around at what used to be Vanguard and laughs. “Bet he is so pissed!”

“Immensely. Now let's start. I think I shall first pick my office.” I stride down the corridor with his laughter bouncing off the walls. “Yeah, me his Press Officer, still can't believe it.”

“And all because Zee could finally drink…”

Start of flashback

TREEHOUSE - TWO YEARS AGO

LOUNGE

BEN

We are all glued to the TV holding our breath, finally the report we have been waiting for.

“And back to the outcome of the former Chief of Police and Mayoral candidate Jim Stockwell’s parole hearing…” The anchor continues. “...he has been denied.”

The rest of the report is drowned out by our cheering. “Do you think there was a chance he could’ve been granted it?” Jen asks once we calm down; we all turn to look at Zee and Faal. Faal's trying to wrest the glass off of Zee, who hasn't had a drink in months since DJ arrived.

“For goodness sake, Faal, let her have it!” Debs orders.

“But you don't have to deal with the fallout after...sip, Lig! The fall out afterwards, Debs, the last time she was off booze for a long period of time and had a drink, she thought that fire walking was an excellent idea!”

“Fire walking?!” Brian gasps. “Where the hell were you and why was she off it?”

“Sou...Africa!” Zee hiccups and grins. “Had back surgery, but the pills were good! Now den...then...as for Shot...no Shitwell is better, much better. Granted...nah don't think so. We don't have an ear on the board if that's what you mean.”

“Have some water.” Carl orders, and she immediately drinks but does not let go of the other glass. “Can you imagine him being Mayor? The whole character of the place, especially LA, would've been destroyed. And don't think he would've stopped there. Family values, my ass! Bigotry and hatred, that's what that was!”

“Exactly!” Zee exclaims. “He would've gone from group to group. First the gays, then the races, then the sexes!” She starts to pace and then turns to look at Brian and Justin. “You took one hell of a risk, you know.”

“Which paid off. He lost!” Brian raises his glass to her. “Although, I have some asshole to thank for making me see the light!” He kisses Justin thoroughly.

“Huh?” Zee looks between the pair of them confused. “Splain!”

“Remember the posters that were put up?” Justin grins and we all nod. “Well...I did them.”

“What?!” Debs exclaims. “That was you?!”

“Shit! Hold on!” Zee exclaims before putting down her glass and tottering out of the room. Ten minutes later she comes back with a tube and a huge smile. “I have to say that it was genius.” She sits down and opens the tube, pulling out the contents and unrolling it. There, in pristine condition, are some of the posters that went up.

“How the hell did you get these?!” Justin demands, looking at an equally stunned Brian. “I thought that they were all destroyed by Vance and the college?!”

“That's what I thought…”

“Ah, no.” Faal smirks, and then shakes his head as Zee shuffles to the cart to top up her glass. “Turns out that Vance still had them in storage, and when his company finally collapsed those were amongst the pickings.”

“And I picked them!” She burbles, then burps. “Ooh, sorry, pardon! Hmmm, I has me a Justin Taylor original, well kinda. You know, Brian, I think you’d be excellent…” She stares thoughtfully at the bottom of her glass. “...you would really be excellent.”

“Lig, what are you talking about?”

“Iffen an out and proud homophobe can run, why can't an out and proud hobo, sorry homo?!”

“Run what?”

“For office. You'd be excellent, and I am never wrong...okay maybe once or twice, but never!”

“You are so ripped! I can't run for office! I have Kinnetic to run, then there's Mary and…”

“Cluck!” Zee sniggers. “You cluck.” The room goes quiet as they lock onto each other. “I bet you that if you ran you would win.”

“Of course I would win, I’m Brian Taylor-Kinney for fuck sake! But I have too much to…”

“I bought Vance’s building. You could set up your sparkly office there...I mean, if you're not too clucky to try…”

Brian puts his drink down then looks at Justin. “So, Sunshine, fancy being my campaign manager?”

“Uh, Bri…” Ted begins and puts up his hand. “...think about this sober. Do not shake on this!” As if they are of one mind, Brian and Zee stand up and put out their hands; Ted manages to get between them, but is pushed down on the sofa by the pair of them. “Do not…!”

“You have yourself a bet and a deal, Mrs Ugerstacht!” They shake hands. “A bet and a deal!”

“Oh shit! Crap!” Ted groans and puts his head in his hands…

End of flashback

STEVE

“I don't think I have ever seen Zee look as ill as she did the next day!” I wrap my arms around Ben’s waist and rest my chin on his shoulder.

“She was very green indeed, but it was worth it. When he put his name up, first there was the inevitable squalling and shrieking, but then people started to really listen to what he was saying. And I think when he didn't deny that he was the Stud of Liberty Avenue nor what he had done in the past, and the way he defended everyone of us, especially Ted, when they started to dig into our pasts, they really believed in him, hence them voting him in by a good 10%.” I snicker. “Shitwell?”

“I couldn't believe it when he applied for parole again though...what part of no isn't he getting?!”

“Someone has gone in…” He turns around to face me looking puzzled. “...to jail where Shitwell is, I heard Zee and Faal talking.”

“Oh, well, I am sure that's just routine.”

“Maybe.”

“Stop fretting, he’s not getting out anytime soon.” I snicker again and he kisses me lightly then steps back. “Oh, do you remember results night?”

“Yeah. Faal and Menno guarded the cart and Zee has been banned from saying the P-word until after his first term!”

“But he could be if he wanted to be…”

“And you aren't putting that idea into his head either!” He retorts. “Ted almost had an aneurysm and a heart attack during the campaign!”

ADIRONDACK PRISON, NEW YORK - MORNING, THREE DAYS LATER

LUTHER’S CELL

GUARD STONE

“Still breathing!” I yell down the corridor to the advancing medics. “What the hell happened? Was he shanked?!” I turn to Pawtry, his cellmate.

“No! He had been complaining of pain for days,  and when I came back he was throwing up blood! That’s where that’s from!”

“Move Stone!” The medic yells. “Stark! Stark, can you hear me?!” He groans. “I need you to open your eyes!” Slowly he does so, but they are very unfocused and flickering.

“Get out!” His colleague orders, and we scramble into the corridor. Less than five minutes later, Luther Stark is being rushed to the infirmary and the cleaning crew are running towards us.

“Pawtry, for now go in with Shiner!”

“Yes sir!” He calls out to me as I run down to the Warden's office.

WARDEN'S OFFICE - THREE HOURS LATER

WARDEN FLECK

I rub my temples, having had a very tense conversation with the infirmary. Stark came around, but it looks like he has severe kidney failure and he is asking for his family to be called.

ADIRONDACK PRISON - NEXT DAY

TV ROOM

MOUSE

I look around the room and try not to smile as Tank rebuffs another attempt by Gringe to get him to come and see his etchings! He has been fangirling over him ever since he came in. Gringe slinks off pouting, but, no doubt, his selective memory will have him trying again tomorrow.

The buzz today is about Stark being taken in. With him gone, his white collar black brothers don't quite know what to do with themselves. When he first came in, he quickly established himself as the head of his wing and pretty much everyone fell in line behind him. His reputation as a hard nosed bastard was cemented when he, not his right hand man, Fox, beat up a guy who called him an uppity Uncle Tom. I am not sure who he was thinking of, but that guy sure was a mess when he was done!

“Aren't they nice and cosy?” I mutter to myself as I lean against the wall and watch Stockwell and Novotny chat and smile at each other. “If only he knew…”

Start of flashback - as overheard by Mouse, undercover cop

TV ROOM - FOUR MONTHS PRIOR

He is just staring at the screen in revulsion and shock. “Him”, he says. “Him! Of all people, him!” I am trying to listen to the report about Kinney’s victory and watch him at the same time, but the incessant chatter is making it difficult. I move closer to the TV on spotting an empty seat. I am surprised when Stockwell also moves and takes the just vacated seat in front of me. I check out the expression on the other guy’s face, and he too is gawking.

“Disgusting, isn't it?” Stockwell hisses.

“Huh? What is?” He turns to face him, but his eyes drift back to the TV.

“That! He and his husband being in office! A disgrace to family values…”

“I believe in live and let live. Besides, he was voted in with a 10% majority, so the voters clearly don't have a problem.”

“He most likely bought the election! They have the money, that should be investigated! If I was mayor like I was supposed to be…”

“You ran?” He frowns at him. “Who are you?”

“Stockwell, Jim Stockwell. I was indicted on some jumped up…”

“The killing of that cop. You were caught…”

“I didn't kill that cop, he killed himself…”

“That’s not what the jury thought.” The guy smirks and turns back to the screen.

“They thought wrong, and once I am freed, I will claim my place as Mayor of Pittsburgh, and…”

“Convicts aren't allowed to run for office.” He interrupts. “And…”

“Well he and his husband are deviants. Hubby is also a vandal. He desecrated some of my campaign material when I was first running. He was at a meeting and held up photos of some dead fags, saying we hadn't done enough to find their killers. It was not my fault that the investigations hit a roadblock.”

“Wasn't there a gay bashing during your campaign? I am a Pittsburgh native and I don't remember much being done then. Surely, that would've shown you to be gay friendlier if they had been caught sooner!”

“Gay friendlier?!  Why would I want to be that?! This sickens me! Why are you in this place then? And you are?”

“It was the 88th District that cost you the election, swiping it for Deakins.”

“How do you know that?”

“Like I said, Pittsburgh native, lived in the 88th, a massive turnout.”

“You a fag?” He scrutinises him coldly.

“I am in for robbery, assault, and sexual assault against my girl...well, then girlfriend, so…”

“Really, you don't look the type.”

“Novotny. Michael Novotny. And I know something else about the hubby, well now you’ve told me what he did to your campaign material, confirms a suspicion.”

“What's that?”

“He most likely was behind the advert. You know, the one that got you investigated? Stands to reason, don't you think?” Novotny smiles again but there is something very sinister about it. “He has the money, he got his old man sent down you know?”

“He did? What for?!” Stockwell leans closer. “And how do you know?”

“Kept my ear to the ground. But I agree, people like him should not be in office.”

They both turn back to the screen as the report finishes and Novotny stands. “I’m going to get some fresh air, well as fresh as you can in this place.”

“I’ll come with you, if you don't mind. Been so long since I have spoken to such a knowledgeable and like minded person.”

“Thanks, and not at all…” Novotny trails off and looks across the way, he goes slightly pale. “...let’s go now!” He orders briskly.

As they walk out, I look to see where he was staring and find myself staring at a stunned and annoyed looking Luther Stark…

End of flashback

“Rumour has it that he is going to be in the hospital for a week while they run some more tests.” Tank sits on the table and swings his legs. “They been talking more and more these days.”

“Hmmm. He has not been in the safe wing since they became buddies.”

“You saw that guy’s face, and that was just for him mouthing off, imagine what he would do to a guy that tried to attack his daughter, estranged or not.” Tank stands and stretches.

Nodding I look at him carefully. “So this, I mean you being in, is precautionary again? There is really nothing going on.”

“He's going up against the parole board in two weeks.”

“Again? He appeals every damn year and every year they turn him down!”

“Yeah. You’d think he would get the hint.” He grins. “Okay, time for me to go walkies...they are nothing if not predictable.”

YARD - FIVE MINUTES LATER

TANK

I am hoping that this is just precautionary.

Mouse is a good cop but not FBI. I go in every year he appeals, but there is just something in the air about this one. I have watched the recordings from the board and his hatred, lack of remorse and arrogance shine through, but from what I have been observing, Novotny seems to be coaching him...weird I know, but he got away with what he got away with for years.

“You know, Novotny, I wasn't entirely honest with you. And I trust you more now.”

You’re not the only one!

“About that cop; I didn't kill him, but was there when he offed himself by accident.”

What?!

“He admitted it to me, that he had done something bad and when he told me what I could not believe that one of Pittsburgh’s...one of my men was a fag. So I helped him on his way.”

“Helped him? Helped him how?”

“I had hoped he would just slink off after he resigned but he started to get paranoid. And paranoid gets you careless. Slept with his gun all the time. The night he died he was cleaning it when I came around. It went off.”

“So why not just say that in court?”

“Because he took another twenty minutes to die. I had a duty of care, and I cared more about my campaign than a faggot. And because of him, there are two less in the world.”

“Kinney is a faggot, and he was your campaign manager.”

“He was and then he was a fired one. I caught them at his place. They were fucking! I couldn’t believe it, they were, fucking on the posters!” Novotny grimaces and Stockwell smiles, little knowing that this is all jealousy. “And he will soon be a dead one when I get out; both him and his husband. And with your coaching, get out I will.”

ALLEGHENY HOSPITAL - TUESDAY, A WEEK LATER

LUTHER’S PRIVATE SUITE

ZEE

I will concede that he does look ill, and also yellow is not a good colour on him! I refused to come at first, but Uncle Lucian pleaded so I relented, but only because I made them all swear not to mention DJ.

Whilst this may be a private suite, which Uncle Luc is paying for, he is still shackled to the bed and that makes me happy.

“We are treating the jaundice. We were wrong, it is not a kidney, it is bone marrow he needs.” The doctor advises and looks at us all.

“Son…Zeus…” Luther groans weakly. “...can you pass me some water?” Zeus hands him the cup but keeps his eyes trained on me. “Watch it!” Luther snaps when the water slops on him.

“Kitten turned into a lion I see.” Zander sneers and then smirks as the chain of his handcuff rattles against the bed.

“We will seek a second opinion from our doctor and if he reaches the same conclusion, then we will do the needful.”

“ZayZay…” Zeus begins, and I enjoy the brief scowl on Luther’s face. “...are you serious?”

“I am. Now let's get this ball rolling,” I stand up and stretch slightly. “Faal will make the appointments, won't you geliefde?”

“Yes, but I don't understand why?”

“Because…”

“Because she's my baby, she’s always been my baby girl.” Luther smarms.

“Nope. You got 15 years for using his name. This way you are alive to serve each and every second.” I pick up my purse. “And I am Uncle Lucian’s Little One, I am nothing to you. Nothing. And you are less than that.”

BRITIN - A WEEK LATER, SATURDAY MORNING

BRIAN

There is a distinct chill where my hot husband is supposed to be lying. I feel the sheet, then look at his bedside table, his monitor is gone. I look at my side and mine is switched off. With a smile I head to the bathroom then the bedroom.

MJ’s BEDROOM

I chuckle softly as Lilah trots ahead then chirps at the door. Slowly but surely, Milo opens it and they both pad downstairs.

“Thanks.” I whisper and step inside.

My heart almost explodes with love and laughter as I take in the beautiful scene. She is sitting up, grinning at me, but it is Justin that is making my heart skip a beat. He always does, but since MJ came along, it's more so. Somehow, he has managed to get all of himself into her crib. Jen had said not to get her a bed until she is at least three; I was confused and he was embarrassed. Then she took me to one side and explained that when Molly would cry in the night, Justin would get in and comfort her. His sperm donor insisted she have a bed, so she got used to it. It took a good few screaming and crying nights to break the habit...she was screaming for Justin and he was crying like a pansy ass baby for her.

“Hey, beautiful.” I call out, and her arms go up.

“Dadadada.” She buries her face in my neck, and I chuckle again. Seems he has given her banana cookies as she smells of them. “Let's go downstairs for a minute so you can see Granny Alice, and…”

“Give her to me.” Alice whispers, startling me a little. She has a very soft tread when it comes to MJ...not because she doesn't want to scare her, far from it, this is so she can catch her in any act of naughtiness. And there's one thing she is, with all our genetics, and that is naughty! “You try and unkink his knots.”

She shuts the door quietly behind her and I gaze at the gorgeousness that is Justin. And to think that if it wasn't for me staying with him for that year, he would have given up. Not that it would've caused a problem, because I know my Sunshine would've made it anyway. No, what is special about it, is that it was also the year I asked for it to be just him and me…

Start of flashback

BRIAN AND JUSTIN’S TOWNHOUSE, NEW YORK - EIGHT YEARS AGO

LOUNGE

BRIAN

I don't think I have ever been so nervous in my life, even though I know he won't say no, because this is all he has wanted. I give the room a quick check as I hear his key in the door.

“Hey!” He calls out as his messenger bag and portfolio hit the floor. “How was your day?”

“Great…” I greet him with a glass of wine,  but before I hand it to him, I kiss him hello, soft, deep and sweet. When I pull away, he steps forward just like I did after he kissed me when I almost fired him all those years ago, after he handed my balls to Eyeconics, by saying orange. “...wanna do it raw tonight and every night for the rest of our lives together?” I call over my shoulder as I head back to the lounge. The next sound is the glass hitting the floor, then silence. “I need an answer because…”

“Are you asking me to marry you again?” He whispers as he comes in, his eyes as big as saucers.

“No! Hell no! Not after the last time! I am…”

“What have you done in…” He is looking around the room in shock. “...is that a picnic?”

“Yeah. Are you hungry and going to answer my question?”

“Yes and yes.” He walks up smiling his eyes bright. “Which is first?”

“The pic...where are you going?”

“To clean up and get another glass! What was that anyway?” He calls rushing out of the room.

“Barolo 2008.” I smile and wait for him to come straight back, this is his absolute favourite year for Barolo. “Yes, I said 2008. Now get a glass!”

“You’re something, you know that?”

“Your one and only something. This wine is not going to drink itself.” Ten minutes later, we are just sitting, staring into the fire, sipping wine and playing with each others fingers.

“Why? And don’t even think about asking if I am talking about the picnic!” He grins.

“Because, like I said before you went, it was only time before we saw each other again, and it’s time for this commitment to you. To us.”

“You…” His voice cracks and he takes a gulp of wine before sitting astride me. “...are the most secretly romantic man I know.”

“Hmm. So...come and be made…” I drop my head onto his shoulder as my phone rings; he sighs and starts to get up. I shake my head again his eyes go wide as I turn it off. “Switch off yours as well.”

“Does he know you are with me?” He quickly turns it off then slides both phones to the other side of the room. “I will owe you a new one if it is damaged in anyway. So, does he?”

“No, he thinks I am in Chicago, as does everyone else.”

“Chicago? Everyone?”

“Yep. I told them that I am trying to set up a branch of Kinnetic there. And the everyone means everyone, well, apart from Cyn, and I suspect Ted knows something’s up but values his assets.”

“Wow. You...you lied to him?!” He starts to giggle, I do love his giggle. “He is going to be pissed when he finds that out.”

“Are you going to tell him?” He stops moving entirely and then holds my chin. “Because I won’t until there is a need to...you need me, we need us, more than he needs me.”

The kiss blooms from one of relief and gratitude; me for him saying yes, and him...he later told me...for putting him first. Then it changes as our lust and excitement gets to us. The food is forgotten. All that we care about right now is this moment. I am taken back to when I asked him to marry me and how we made love, not fucked or screwed, how we made love on the floor at Britin. I slowly pull away from his mouth and start to undress him, he reciprocates and soon we are naked.

“Think I will explode the moment…”

“You are inside me. Me too, Sunshine, me too.” Again the wide eyed stare. “Uh, this is where you take me to heaven.”

“But...I have to…” He stammers.

“Already done, just need you.” I get onto my hands and knees and almost lose it as he slides the butt plug out. “Justin…”

“I’m coming.” He whispers, and five minutes later we both do. As we lay replete in each others arms, I run my fingers through his hair and he sighs. “Will never forget this. Never.”

“Me neither. You need to cut your nails, I have dents.” I rub my hip where he gripped.

“Hmmm.” He yawns, and although part of me is a little put out that he is going to sleep, I pull the eiderdown over us, then chuckle. “What?”

“Just remembered the one time you fell asleep when I was trying to ravish you.”

“I fell asleep?!” He sits up indignantly. “When?! When have I ever fallen asleep on you?!”

“At the beginning of Rage. You and he were brainstorming ideas, and you fell asleep.”

“Really?!” He searches my face and the blush coming up his cheeks tells me he only sees the truth there. “Well, you can eradicate that memory right now!”

NEXT MORNING

BALCONY

“You okay? You don't have any regrets do you?” Blue eyes look worriedly at me.

“Not a one. But do have two, no three questions. Please, can we not tell anyone we are…”

“Nobody's business but ours. Second question?” He grins and tops up my coffee, then sits on the other end of the sofa and puts his feet in my lap. “Well? Second question?”

“Second and third rolled into one. Do you want to get married or have kids in the future?” He goes still. “Just tell me truthfully, is that something you want?”

“It is, but I want you as well, and if you don't want…”

“I do, I really do, but like this, it has to be when we feel it is right...

End of flashback

“How the hell did he get in there?” I mutter as I unlock the front of the crib, then the sides. Slowly, he unfurls like a blossoming flower, and I wait for the chill of no blankets and the tingle of the blood flowing back into his legs to hit him. It doesn't take long for him to inhale sharply and open his eyes. “Morning.” I help him up and start to massage his arm. His hand is so much better these days, even in the cold.

“Morning. Where's MJ?” He mumbles as I lead him to the en suite and load up his brush. “She grimbled. You had a long week, and…”

“You mean grumbled. With Alice. And we both did. I will get up with her tomorrow. Brush.”

“No, definitely mean grimbled.” He smacks his tongue and seems to be waking up a bit more. “Combo of grizzled and grumbled...grimbled.”

“Uh huh, and who is that word from?” I ask knowingly.

“Our Pitbull of course. Jeez, I can't wait for tomorrow just to be able to see all of the family and find out what has led to the Stark/Ugerstacht lockdown.” He looks pensive. “You don't think one of them is sick do you?”

“No, they would say. Now come on and stop worrying, you will get wrinkles!”

“Boys!” Alice bellows. “Come down and rescue Lilah and Milo...she’s raiding their food again!”

“The appetite is all you!” I grin down at his peeved expression.

“And the impishness is all you!” He retorts, flattening my bed head. “She copies everything you do. Any you keep, don't even try it, you keep picking at the salmon before you feed them!”

“I do not pick. I test…”

“She is...MJ, do not eat the kibble! That is not a cracker!”

“You are changing her nappy!” He orders, and I do nothing but watch his angry ass bounce out and smile.

TREEHOUSE - SUNDAY AFTERNOON

LOUNGE

CARL

“Let me repeat that.” I order. We are all in shock, shock and relief that we know what is wrong and relieved that it is not any of them. “He is sick, needs bone marrow, and you have all been getting tested?”

“Yes.” Zee grimaces.

“And so now what happens?” Debs asks, covering up DJ and MJ, who mercifully will never know that shithead.

I smile at my two great granddaughters looking like two peas in a pod. Each with their curls and angelic until they are making devilment looks. DJ has inherited the dark curls of her parents, and MJ the golden red ones of her mother, Daph, and her fathers. Although she recommended a surrogate, when it came down to it, there was only one that they wanted to be the mother of their child, their chief supporter and champion, Daph.

“He finds a match, and we help,  I guess. There is no…”

“What do you mean, find a match? You guys can't donate?” Gus looks around in confusion. “None of you guys match him?”

“Nope.” Faal scratches his head. “None of the family does, well none of the Stark family do.”

“But how come?” Justin frowns.

“Biologically he isn't my brother.” Luc scrubs his face. “Damn hell of a shock. Let me give you a bit of history of us. We, as in Luther and I, were adopted. We have always known that. We assumed that as we were adopted together, that we are brothers, but we're not.”

“So, could anybody be tested to see if they match?” Jenny looks around us all, daring one of us to challenge her. “Well, apart from Dad and Hunter, but we could all be tested?”

“Yes, but why are you suggesting this?” Mel asks quietly.

“Because he needs to serve his time!” She asserts. “He is not using being sick to get out of jail time!”

“Did any of you say anything?” Faal looks around the brothers and Zee and they are looking at Jenny in wonderment, shaking their heads.

“Say what to who?” Leda demands.

“Anything to Jenny.” Faal drops a kiss on her head before lifting her chin so that she is looking at him. “Because that is exactly what Zee said.”

JENNY

“So how soon can we get this ball rolling?” They laugh as I roll up my sleeves at the same time. “Pook!” I mutter, and that makes them laugh harder. “Oh shush, you will wake them!” I look across at my still dozing nieces and smile.

“Still can't get used to you not swearing like a paratrooper on furlough!” Momma teases me. “But since you look like you are going to combust, let’s take them up and you can let loose that tongue of yours!”

She takes MJ and I take DJ, we creep up to their bedroom and Momma shakes her head when I go to put her in her bed.

“Of course! I keep forgetting they sleep together during the day. It is so odd how in tune with each other they are. Must be a hellcat thing.” I tuck them in, and after switching on the monitor, we head back down.

“Go…” Mom orders.

“What a fuck of cluster bomb of shit fuck of a pisspotting mess!” I spit. “Oh, that felt so good to say!”

“Any more?” Uncle Faal smirks and I shake my head. “I couldn't have put it better myself. As for the rolling question, if you guys are serious about this…” I look around and everyone nods. “...then we will get the ball rolling next week. He is not going anywhere and is stable. Besides, we have to finish setting up the office for our new Councilman, and there's the little matter of two little ones needing their shots.”

Zee snickers and Uncle Faal blushes. “You can search me first. Please, my lig, I will be good and calm.”

“Alright, you can come, but not inside. You are staying in the car with Vince.” Aunt Zee decrees and he looks somewhat mollified. “At least you won't put a gun to his head!”

“Gun to his head?!” Uncle Justin gasps. “An actual gun? You didn't say that, you said he threatened him!”

“Nope. The lummox got special dispensation to keep his gun with him, and…”

“Let's go eat!” Uncle Brian declares as he stands up but is blushing.

“Let's hear this first!” Papa Bear orders. “Sit down, Son.”

“In my defence…” Uncle Brian blusters.

“And be quiet, I want to hear this from Zee. Please continue.”

Start of flashback

MAYO CLINIC, ROCHESTER, ALMOST TWO YEARS AGO - DJ’S ARRIVAL

ZEE’S ROOM

ZEE

“Holy Mother of God!” I growl as another contraction hits me. “That one pinched!” I try to think of the greater good of bringing our daughter into this world, rather than the pain I am in. I look up when the door opens and Brian is immediately by my side. “How is he?”

“Worrying about you. How you doing?” He pulls out his phone. “Promised him I would keep a running commentary.”

“Tell him it's like when I popped back his dislocated shoulder, but it, no...on second thoughts not that. Just say it, holy hellfuck, hurts!”

“Okay.” He quickly sends the text. “Want something for the pain?” He wipes my forehead and takes my hand. “Squeeze on the next...aiiiiieeeeee!” He shrieks as I grip hard.

“Sorry! So sorry, but that was super close!” I grip the handrail of the bed instead while he tries to ease the throbbing in his hand.

“I heard screaming! Who's screaming?!” Faal bellows from the other side of the door.

“Me!” Brian rushes to stop him from coming in. “She's got a grip, your wife!”

“Faal! Go back and sit down now!” I shout, and then press for the nurse.

“No, I am staying here! I can do this!”

“Excuse me, sir, either in or out!” The doctor barks.

“Geliefde, please!”

“Okay, my lig, but no more screaming, Brian!” He moves to allow them in, and walks slump shouldered back to the waiting room.

Ten minutes later nothing has happened.

“Stubborn little brat, just like her father!” I yell, and everyone looks confused. I nod at the door; Brian opens it and Faal almost falls on top of him. “She's changed her mind and is not ready just yet.”

He smiles and sits on the edge of the bed. “Do you want me to…” Brian gets up to leave, but Faal shakes his head. “...no, I will be back in a minute, need to call a godfather-to-be anyway.”

The doctor and nurses follow him out then it's just us, he rubs my stomach and clears his throat. “Now look here, Bubble, we have waited years for you and it's time to come out.”

“Yeah, that is not...ouch, buggering hell!” I yelp as Bubble decides to do as her Daddy says and arrive. Quickly, the doctor and nurses rush back in, and Faal is hauled out by Brian, but again she settles down. “For crying out loud!” I wail. “I just want this to end! I can't do another 72 hours, Brian I can't!”

“Seventy two hours? You were in labour with Matt for three fucking days?” Faal throws the door open in glares at me. “You never told me that!” He takes off his jacket then points his gun on the doctor, who swallows hard, and the room goes quiet. “Now you will give her as many drugs that is safely possible and get Bubble out of there in the next hour or someone will be taking something out of you!”

He nods. “Prep her for a c-section and I was going to suggest that before you pulled a Rambo on me Faal!”

“Of course you were, Doc, of course you were. Now, Brian...Brian? Where are you?!”

“On his way to be treated for concussion.” A nurse calls from the corridor, while struggling not to laugh. “He tried to get out of the way of the door and smacked into the wall.”

“You knocked out my birthing buddy, you dipshit! Now you will have to come!”

An hour and five minutes later, Faal is blubbering as he cradles her to his chest, I hear a ruckus outside and it's Brian demanding to be let in. Everyone looks at Faal and he nods.

“Want the hell hap…” Brian begins, but on seeing a bloodied and blubbering Faal bursts into tears. “...is she okay?!” He manages to choke out.

“Perfect, just perfect. Do you want to hold her?” He just opens his arms. “So do we get to find out now?”

“Excuse me! Mother would like to hold baby when she finds out her name, not father and godfather!”

“Sorry!” Brian places her in my arms, then clears his throat. “Mr and Mrs Ugerstacht, it is my great honour to tell you that she is Deborah Jennifer Carla Ugerstacht. Or DJ for short.”

“DJ, I like that, it suits her.” I murmur, and then kiss her head.

“Ewww!” Brian declares. “Gross!”

“So you don't want to cut the cord then?” Faal takes DJ and places her on the table, then picks up the scissors and waves them at him. The resulting crash silences the room. “Gonna take that as a no.”

End of flashback

“I blame the concussion for my weakness.” Brian sniffs as we all chuckle. “I didn't faint with MJ, cut the cord and everything!”

“You tried to do it with your eyes closed first.” Justin adds. “And almost cut your finger off!”

“How does that comment get you in my ass tonight?”

“I never said anything, nothing, not a word! Did I? Nobody heard a thing, right?!”

Aunt Zee is laughing as she heads out to sort dinner.

“Uncle Brian, you sure he never got it out of you? Their names I mean?” I grin.

“Nope, he didn't, despite how close he took me. Never did.”

“Close he took you? I don't understand, can you explain?”

The no almost pins me to the wall.

“Oh, edging, why didn't you just say that?”

“How do you know about edging?!” Dad demands.

“Orange is The New Black, Season 2. Hank watched the finale without me, said he couldn't wait. I showed him that he should've done.”

“You’re kidding, right?” Papa whispers, his face ashen.

“No. You lot don't call me the Pitbull for nothing! Never did it again.” I have never heard a room with all our family in it so quiet.

“Psych!” Aunt Zee’s voice blasts out from the monitor.

“Not funny!” Papa snarls as his colour comes back.

“It was, and it was Uncle Zeus’s idea!” I giggle.

“Junior give me your phone, no more shenaniganing!” Grandpa growls with a smile. “When and if Cyn calls I shall give it back.”

As I watch my family slowly start to relax, I know for now, everything is okay.

ADIRONDACK PRISON - THREE DAYS LATER

STOCKWELL'S CELL

MICHAEL

“Will you stop it!” Stockwell has been pacing for the last half an hour. “Bringing your hearing forward can only be seen as a good thing, right?”

“I suppose so.” He nods. “I take it you read his bullshit statement?”

“Caught a glimpse at it, but didn't read it properly.”

“It was all about how he is going to be inclusive and bullcrap. Most likely he will get them teaching sodomy in schools as his first priority!” He snatches up the paper and tosses it at me.

The picture takes my breath away. I have not heard from Brian, and in the intervening years he has gotten better looking, if that were possible! It is just him on the front, and when I go to the inside pages, there he is in his mayoral office. It seems vaguely familiar, but I can't quite place where it is. I seethe inwardly, for in the background is his dream team, according to him: Ben; that cow, Cynthia; a couple of the Stark brothers; and...he can't be serious?! For there, grinning next to Ben, is my mother!

“What is this crock of shit?!” I bitch.

“My thoughts exactly!” Stockwell seethes. I jump slightly as I had forgotten about him completely. “I can't wait to get out to run against him!”

“Run against him? So you're not going to deal with them, especially Boy, I mean his husband? You sure were so angry when you found out all he's done.”

“I was beyond fucked, but no, and realistically, nobody would get near them.” He sighs.

“Because of Stark Securities?” I nod in understanding but he looks confused. “I heard that he is guarded by one of the best security firms in the world. Tagline: We die first. They have almost top level clearance.”

“How do you know all of this?” He sits on his bed frowning. “That would be inside information…”

“Like I said before, I kept my ears open. You could still deal with him, the husband, I mean…”

“And like I said, couldn't get near them, and besides, the first person they would look at is me.” He replies, then strides to the door. “Come on, let's practise some more.”

“Why the hell would they look at you though?” I follow him out and we head to the yard.

“NOVOTNY!” We both jump at the voice and turn around. “You have mail! Break room, computer seven.”

“Mail? Are you sure?” I haven't heard from anybody in the two years I have been here.

“I am sure. It is such a rare occurrence that I almost announced it on the PA system!” The guard sneers. “You have 30 minutes. Well, 28 now that you've wasted two minutes dawdling.”

“Go and check it, Michael, I’ll see you out there,” Stockwell orders, and strides out.

As I head to the break room, my heart starts to beat faster. Could it be?! I see a discarded paper and snatch it up, then run to the break room. I take my seat, and with trembling fingers I go to the article and read the words again...I will reach out to those who have been alienated and discarded by their friends and family for whatever reason...I take a couple of deep breaths, I knew it, it can't be coincidence that he becomes Mayor, this article, who is not in it or mentioned, and now mail...can it?!

COUNCILMAN TAYLOR-KINNEY’S HQ - SAME TIME

VANCE’S FORMER OFFICE

JUSTIN

“Brian!” I gasp as he slams into me lifting me off the desk. “More, more, more…”

“You want more, Mr First and Only Man? More of this?” He croons and reaches for my straining cock.

“Yes, please yes!” I wriggle a little to bring him in deeper and he goes still. “Brian?”

“Just savouring the feel of your hot tight ass.” He moans. “Perfect, just perfect!” He strokes my cock in sync with his thrusts; I ball my fists in my eyes and squeal with delight.

“Will never been enough. Never!” I hook my ankles around his neck and he pulls me tighter to his hips. “I love you…”

“Jesus, Justin!” He starts to piston harder and faster and I can feel it coming from my toes.

“Close-close-close!” I chant.

“Mine-mine-mine!” He cries and then stiffens. “Christ!”

“YOURS!” I scream and then we explode within seconds of each other then there’s a flash. I blink to clear my vision as we slowly sink back onto the desk, gently he lowers my legs and rubs my hips. “What was that?”

“What?” He helps me to sit up and then looks around. “Where’d my pants go?”

“Over there. There was a flash.”

“A flash…”

“Come back!” Someone shouts and we dash to the window to see one of the security guards pelting after someone and easily catching him. He wrestles him to the ground and with very little effort flings him over his shoulder and heads back to the building.

“What the hell is going on?!” Brian growls as he does up his pants, and we quickly get redressed.

“Sit your ass down and explain!” The guy shouts, and we dash out to find a guy towering over the now cowering young man with a camera clutched tightly to his chest. “Give it or I will take it!”

“You’re going to break it!”

“I will break your fingers as well if you don’t hand it over!” The man snarls at him.

“Everyone calm down!” Steve shouts. “What are you doing with Shorty?”

“Stopping him from taking unauthorised pictures of the Mayor!” The guy jabs a finger at Shorty. “He was outside the window and took one!”

“Why?!” Steve demands, and Shorty starts to go red. “Answer me!”

“It’s the Stud and the man that caught him!” He blurts out. “I wasn’t old enough to see him in action! And...well...it’s for my…”

Brian and I exchange smiles. “Thanks, we think.” I laugh. “But I really must insist you hand that over, we don’t want it to turn up where it shouldn’t.”

“Can I see it?” Brian asks, and Shorty slowly hands over the camera, keeping it as far from the guard as he can.

“Who are you by the way?” I ask.

“Brutus.” He replies, his eyes never leaving Shorty. “Zeus sent me. Am supposed to ask for Ben, but spotted this guy first.”

“Oh I see. Well…”

“Sunshine...we look awesome in this!” Brian drools and I lean over to take a look, you can’t see much but you can see our expression just as we both cum. “I need you to forward that to me!”

“Forward it to um...Cynthia instead.” I lick my lips and Brian inhales sharply as he flicks through the pictures. “How long were you out there?!”

“Got there when you started hanging the painting.” Shorty replies. “Then you just looked at him, wound your fingers through his hair for the kiss and…”

“Jesus, I have never realised how bendy you are!”

“Down, boys!” Steve admonishes us. “So let me make the formal introductions, Brian, Justin and Brutus you said?” Brutus nods. “This is Shorty, he's the new assistant for Ben.”

“The hell he is!” Brutus exclaims. “First rule of assisting is discretion!”

“He has a point.” Brian has yet to hand back the camera. “Where’d you get this from?”

“Amazon. Look, I know what I did was stupid, but...what? Why are you smiling like that?”

“How much are we paying him?” Brian has his business face on.

“Brian!” I gasp. “You’re not serious?! We can't hire him now, look what he did!”

“Of course we can. Just not in the mayor's office in any capacity that has him near official documents. But from an artist point of view, look at the pictures Sunshine, take what they depict out of it, and look…” I take the camera off of him and look and then I see it...the talent shines through. “...so can we?” He wraps his arms around my waist.

“Steve, can I see Shorty’s resume please?” He nods and heads to Ben’s office whilst we wait in silence. “Thanks.” I take it off him and we both read quietly.

“This way we control the images and they will be perfect.” Brian kisses my cheek.

“What's happening here?” Ben demands as he comes in.

“You need to hire another assistant, Shorty here needs to sign an NDA, because he is our official photographer, and...” I explain with a smile.

“He is?” “I am?” Ben and Shorty say at the same time.

“Yep. I really hated the pictures they took, and the narcissist in Sunshine made the photographer delete the ones he was in…” I give him a squeeze. “...and I am glad he did, as they didn't capture his beauty.”

“Awww.” I grin and kiss him under his chin. “But we are not so naive enough to believe that this would be for your spank bank alone. Like you said, this is The Stud and I am The Twink who caught, not tamed him. The media knows his background, but nobody has anything just words.” I look through them pictures again. “You got here on the gay vote mostly. So show how we celebrated that.”

“Okay, give it to me.” Ben reaches for the camera then pauses and looks between Shorty and Brutus. “You gay?”

“Curious.” Brutus responds, he hasn't stopped looking at Shorty.

“Wanna kiss him?” Steve asks.

“After I spank him.” Brutus licks his lips and Shorty goes pale.

“Bear that in mind if you try and fuck us over okay?” Steve retorts, all Shorty does is nod.

ADIRONDACK PRISON - FORTY MINUTES LATER

BREAK ROOM

MICHAEL

“I am telling you the computer malfunctioned and that’s why I never logged on! I need extra time to read my mail!” I demand.

“And I am telling you, it is because you were reading the newspaper that you ran out of time. You know we have cameras in here right?” The guard from earlier rubs his temple. “Book time in and come back tomorrow. You are done today!”

“This is inhumane!” I choke out, desperate to read what he has sent to me.

“Book time in or all privileges are revoked for a week!”

Twenty minutes later I am sobbing in a stall as quietly as I can. I know Brian has reached out to me, I just know it!

STOCKWELL'S CELL - NEXT AFTERNOON

STOCKWELL

I check the clock in the atrium. He should be here soon. I hear the squeak of his trainers along the corridor. I smile and wait for him to come in. As soon as he steps inside I gesture for him to sit down.

“Well, what did the warden say?” He asks eagerly.

“Well, Michael, there isn't going to be a parole hearing.”

“What? Why? And where are your things?”

“Are you telling me you don't know why or where I am now fucking going?!” I hiss, never wishing more than ever that I had a gun. “You, my friend, and good all American straight man! Or should I say traitor to all decent people and faggot!” He looks quickly at the door and starts to back away. “Oh, how you played me!”

“Played? What are you talking about?! I am not gay and don't understand why or where you…”

“I know the pain of betrayal. To know what it is like to have your trust, the very thing you believe of a person, rocked to their foundations. I had a friend called Michael Novotny, who is currently serving time in Adirondack Prison, in New York, who said he loved me, but did everything in his power to keep me miserable, to keep me from the man I loved, all because he wanted me for himself.” I pause in reading the article and look at him. “And that’s not you, right?”

“No, I’m not…” He begins but then I show him the page and there for all to see is his mug shot. “...what the...”

“There's more…” I sneer.

MICHAEL

I can't take my eyes off the page...his voice fades to grey as I take it in; Mayor Elect in love tryst...with husband blares the headline. The subheading declares that The Former Stud of Liberty Avenue has been changed, not tamed by The Twink, and he is the only one who could change him. Then I see the picture and I feel even more sickened, the rapture on their faces.

“Why? Why would he do this? Especially like this!” I mutter and then manage to step out of the reach of his punch. “Guard!” I scream and immediately one rushes in, subduing Stockwell easily. “What is wrong with you?!”

“I am being transferred to Attica! Do you know what they do to cops there?!”

“Why though?! What does it have to do with me?!”

“Because you were the only person I told! And now there won’t be another parole hearing for me, ever!”

I stop still and then swallow hard. “I never said anything to anyone! I promise you that!” I know what they do to bitches who snitch in here!

“Why would I believe the promise of a faggot?!” He kicks out at me but is quickly slammed to the floor. “Ow fuck! Let got of me! Get off!”

“Code Red in Stockwell Cell! Code Red!” The guard yells, and I am hustled out of the way before he is removed, shouting and swearing.

BREAK ROOM - THREE HOURS LATER

MICHAEL

All I feel is relief, I am being moved out of general pop to a safer wing as of today. I had moved to general pop because, quite frankly, I was bored! But now that Stockwell has branded me a snitch, the looks I started to get scared me.

“You have thirty minutes!” I nod and quickly boot up the computer, I was surprised to find out that the computers are different in each break room. It takes a good ten minutes to open up and another five to open up the email. The guard is smirking. And it gets bigger when he catches, no doubt, the furious look on my face. “Bad news? Shame. Care to share?”

“No.” I declare hotly. “I just want to print this and be on my way!”

Twenty minutes later I am in my new cell, staring hatefully at the email from Lindsay, detailing her new life with Faal, how Brian and Justin’s daughter are great friends with Faal’s kid and, no doubt, her soon to be stepdaughter.

I look up when the door knocks and frown at my visitor.

“Luther Stark wants to see you. Not up for discussion.” The guy growls, and I shuffle off the bed and follow him to the cell. “He’s here.”

LUTHER

I wave Fox off, and look a very scared Novotny up and down. “Don’t worry, I am not going to harm you. They seem happy, Kinney and his husband. He’s gone from strength to strength in your enforced absence.” He says nothing. “That was all I wanted to say...oh, and welcome to the wing!”

“Thanks.” He grunts. “See you around.”

As he turns and leaves I see Fox hovering. I frown as he knows better than to listen in, but he holds up a forestalling hand. “Found this...thought you might find it interesting.”

I take the paper from him and start to read...and then start to feel pleased that she is miserable and that shit-caring show was just that, a shit-caring show! I have to admit that she almost had me, but now I know what I know, I can’t wait to rub it in her face!

LUTHER

I stare out of the window and am thankful that I am an early riser, and for once it is quiet in this place. The alarm won’t go for a good few hours and I can take this time to think. Sighing, I scrub my face and swing my legs off the bed. Stretching out my back, I wince at the throbbing my body does more regularly now. Although it is falling apart, it is still in good shape. I pinch my side and am pleased that I have not run to fat at my age. I spotted Copthorne a couple of times. He’s lost weight too, but gained a haunted and haggard look, most likely because of some of the folks that he sent here being rather keen to have a chat!

I start my exercises, thankful that I have this cell to myself. Fox is next door, but he can sleep like the dead. You’d think a guy of his size would be in for something physical, but nope, he is in for bank robbery. But the way he robbed the banks was ingenious, he would strap a homemade bomb to himself and threaten to blow the bank up with everyone inside. Once he got the money, he would take off his face and walk away. Nobody ever suspected, until he dropped his mask and they got him on his DNA. When they found out the snarling redneck white guy was, in fact, a whited up black man, well they had to do something. I think if there was a way for him to be executed they would’ve found it!

You see, that’s one of the things, I don’t like about white people. I frown as I try to remember the name of the song. The hook has always stuck with me; if you’re white, it’s alright, if you’re brown then stick around, but if you’re black stay back or something like that. I make a note to look it up later. If we have bested them at anything, they either try to make it theirs or punish us in some way for doing it!

The rustle of the paper falling as I do my press ups stops me. I put it back on the table, then I get to thinking: why doesn’t he say something? I sit on my bed and read it again. According to her, Lindsay is out living the life with Faal that is as it should’ve been. Oh, how that chanked my chain. No, I don’t like the man, and still think she should’ve stayed with Grady to keep the Stark line pure, but the way she described Zaden as a Harlem Harlot almost had me on break out! I have no problem causing misery to my family, but nobody else does! I chuckle to myself thinking that Novotny must be sick to his core that she is out living the perfect life when I know that is crap. I saw the truth of it all two weeks ago…

Start of flashback

UPMC HOSPITAL - TWO WEEKS PRIOR

DR FRITZ CHARLES’S OFFICE

LUTHER

I keep my eyes on the door and can hear their chatter. They are laughing and joking at a time like this. I feel in my pocket and smile as I hear the crumpling of the paper.

“Zaden, hi!” Dr Charles smiles as she and her brothers come in.

Ooh, this is gonna be so good!

“No Faal?” I query.

“Parking.” She returns, the the door opens again, bringing in Lucian, Dee and Del. “And before you ask again, yes we are sure.”

“Okay, Little One.” Lucian sighs, then turns to me. “You are looking a little better.”

“Thanks. So what’s happening, doctor? When do…” I stop as I hear two things: one, the laughter of Faal; and two, a little girl’s voice. I stare at the door and my heart thrums as he comes in, holding who could only be DJ, and a whole other lot of people,. Some of whom I recognise from when I was thrown off the board and others from the trial.

What is going on?!

“So, before we get to what we are here for, I wanted you to at least see her once.” Faal tells me. “The only person more protected than DJ is Zaden.” He sets DJ down and she holds onto his fingers tightly. “DJ…” She looks up at him. “...that man there is your grandfather.”

“Like Gramps Carl?” She asks.

“Yes, but not as nice.” Zaden mutters, earning a glare from her husband. “What? I believe it was you that told her about the nut...other two when she was bubbling. You said she needed to know that the world is not so nice.”

“True.” Faal smiles at her and I let go of the paper.

“Why is he tidied like that?” DJ is staring at me, specifically my handcuffed wrist. I move my cuff to cover it.

“It’s tied, DJ, and too late.” Lucian sighs. “She gets her observancy skills from her parents. “So, you have seen her, she’s the…”

“Image of Zaden when she was that age.” I whisper, then clear my throat. “So what does DJ stand for?”

“Deborah Jennifer.” She replies, and starts to totter towards me bringing Faal with her. “I named after Grandmop and Gran-Gran.” She peers up at me. “You have nice eyes but they are sad.”

“I haven’t been very well.” I tell her and pull my free hand back.

“Oh.” She stares at me again before looking at Lucian. “You should speak to Unc Luc, he has happy eyes, maybe he could teach you to be happy.”

“Like I said, too late for that.” Lucian replies.

I am about to say something when a glinting catches my eye from inside Faal’s jacket. He has a gun! My eyes widen as I look at him. He just nods and smiles.

“Aunt Zee, want me to take her out?” A young girl asks, glaring at me. “I don’t think she needs to see him anymore.”

“Good plan. Thanks, Jenny.” Zaden replies, and she and another young man take DJ away. I watch the door close and then open again. Jenny pokes her head back in.

“You have to say thank you to me. Because of me…”

“Pitbull, reign it in.” Del orders with a smile. “We will handle it from now on.”

“Fine. We will be in the humvee.” The door shutting sharply makes me frown.

“You need to watch your tone, young lady!” I shout, and the door is flung open again.

“Not for you I don’t! All I need is to say that I am so glad and fuck you!” She slams out again.

“So here’s the thing: Oh, the news does not get better from this point on.” Lucian states, and I gape at him. “What?”

“Did you not hear the way she just spoke to me?! Whoever are her parents need to pull her up on that shit!”

“She swore at you because you used our late son’s name to embezzle money!” Del blasts, and I shrink back in the chair a bit. “She knows martial arts and has the temper to match as you have just seen. Now shut up and listen!”

“As you know…” Lucian begins, and I rest my chin on my hand and look bored as I always do when he starts to sermonise. “...pay attention, Luther. We’re not a match and we’re not brothers.”

“What kind of sick joke is that?!” I demand.

“Not a joke. We’re not related, we can’t be, our blood types don’t match, let alone the…”

My heart pounds in my chest. “How is that possible?!”

“We were adopted together, Luther, you knew this and…”

“So they just saw two little monkeys that looked alike and thought, yeah they must be related?” I am surprised at how upset I am at this then remember that I am still Luther Stark and turn to Del. “Are they mine?”

“You were the one fucking about, not me! And with your daughter in law, I might add. I stuck to my vows and my principles!” Del snaps, and then breathes in and out. “And as for Talon, she is being treated like a princess by Ralph. You remember him, don’t you?”

I try to suppress the flicker of annoyance, but judging by the smirk I failed. “So which one of you is a match?” I demand.

“None of us here present.” Zaden replies. “But we are determined to keep you where you belong, and so we were all tested. And one of us is a match, it’s just a little difficult to get him to agree, but that is being worked on.”

I feel a chill of their cold stares seeping into my bones. “Which one of you is it then?” I stare at them. “Answer me!”

“He’s not here!” Zeus snarls. “You really have to listen to Zaden, because she speaks for us!”

“Fine. Madam President of Stark Securities, which of these people do I have to be grateful to?”

“Brian Taylor-Kinney.” Zaden retorts. “And as for Jenny’s comment earlier, it was her idea that we were all tested. Now all that needs to happen is for his husband to bring him around; luckily for you he is very persuasive!”

End of flashback.

I chew my nail as I try not to fret as I haven’t heard from them in two weeks. “Come on, Luther, use your wiles! How the hell can I get this sped along?!”

MICHAEL'S CELL - LATE AFTERNOON

LUTHER

Watching his face gurning as he reads that weeks old paper has me smiling. Oh yeah, this is just the inside man I need!

“It's not true. None of it.” I call out, and he slowly lowers the paper.

“What isn't?”

“The email you got from Lindsay. It is bullshit.”

He flings the paper down and sits up quickly. “Where did you get that?! You had no right to go through…”

“It was found in the corridor and I took it off a couple of people who were finding it amusing. Given that last mention of you in the papers…”

He ponders this for a while. “Oh, right, well then ….how do you know it is not true?”

“I saw Zaden and Faal a couple of weeks back, they are very much together.”

“But she was preggers when I saw her at my trial, definitely preggers.”

“Sadly didn't carry to term.”

“Couldn't have happened to a nicer couple.” He snipes and picks up the paper.

“A bit harsh celebrating the death of a child.” I keep the anger out of my voice, thankful that my records are sealed and I turned on Copthorne. If I hadn't, I would've gotten the same 35 that he did. Never I have I been so pleased to be the little fish!

“If it wasn’t for them then I wouldn't be in jail!” He scowls.

“From what I hear you weren't exactly clever at hiding stuff.”

“I had for years until he came along!” He jabs the picture of Justin. “I always kept Brian distracted and used him as distraction sometimes, but then he had to frigging fall in love with him! We should've been together, Brian and I! He is my one and only true love, and now they have a little family together and their lives are complete!” He sneers before carefully folding the paper.

“How many times you going to read that?” I jibe at him.

“As many times as I want. Like he said, it's only time…” Again with the sneering. “If only he had taken more time all those years ago then it would've all worked out!”

“Uh huh, and how's that?”

“I was outside the door, just waiting for that fucker to leave and finally I would have Brian back where he belonged.”

“Outside the door?” I repeat.

“Yeah, for their last fuck the night before he went to New York; where he was to become a great big success. Oh, he was a success, so successful that he could no longer do Rage! That was to be my pension, my legacy, but no, his stupid art had to come first! And for Brian to back him! He said that Sunshine, how I hate that nickname, was out there for him, for them, not me, I didn't feature! Didn't  feature, after all I did!”

As I let him rant on, all I can think is that there is all kinds of wrong with him, but he has given me an idea.

“What if I can arrange to get you out of here and be with near Brian for a week?”

FAAL AND ZEE’S FORMER ISLAND - NEXT DAY

LINDSAY'S QUARTERS

LINDSAY

I look at my calloused hands and want to weep. This may be an island paradise, but the work is back breaking, and having to see my father and his new wife swanning around, virtually clicking their fingers at me was horrendous. Thankfully they have now left, but those two weeks were the worst of my life, even worse than prison. When I asked him how they got hitched, she just stared down her nose at me and said that she doesn’t discuss family matters with strangers! And when I told him what she said, he backed her, saying that I am now a stranger to him!

I have finally finished for the day and sink down onto the bed. I groan as the laptop they have loaned me to keep in touch with my many friends signals the arrival of an email. Wearily, I get up and then blink in surprise as it’s from Michael, then sigh as I read the title; liar, liar pants on fire!

“Let’s see what you have to say for yourself.” I mutter, then get up to close the bedroom door. Once the email loads, I sneer at his opening line. “So you’re not going to be the next Mrs Ugerstacht any time soon! According to Luther, and he should know after all, they are still very much married. Shame about the kid dying though, but at least the world is saved from having another Zaden or Hades as I have taken to calling her.” I pause, repulsed by what he’s just said about an innocent child. “Not sure where you ended up after you most likely fucked your way out of jail, hope the warden washed and shaved at least, but wherever it is, you will be a bitter dried up old prune that nobody wants!”

I look up at the knock and bid them enter. Madea comes in with a smile, I am instantly on my guard.

“What are you up to?”

“I have just finished my shift so I am going to rest for the rest of the day.” I reply, closing down the laptop.

“Oh, we’re going out later if you want to join us?”

“Join you?” I am incredulous.

“Yes. You must be bored out of your mind every night.”

“No, uh, thank you for the invite, but I really am tired and would rather have an early night.”

“Okay, had a feeling you would say that. Brought these up for you to read.” She hands me some magazines and newspapers. “Enjoy your evening.” She smiles again before leaving me astonished in her wake.

As I place them on the table, I wonder what her game is. Something catches my eye, and that something is Pittsburgh Gazette and the picture of Brian and Justin having just finished.

“You have got to be kidding me?! How the hell did he become Mayor?! That reprobate!” I quickly turn to the article and read with mounting fury. “That smug little bastard!” I snarl as he gloats about being the one to change, not tame him. “He is still as wild as ever but just only with me.” I almost scrunch it up in fury, but I have a much better idea. I almost break my laptop opening it up again, then taking a deep breath, I start to type...Mr Novotny, or should that be Grassi or Devore? I would thank you for your reply, but it was so filled with delusion and spite that I could barely read it for laughing at your attempts to be bitchily witty, or being disgusted at how nasty you are over the death of a child, which is not true. She is very much alive, and we three are happy, just like Brian and Justin are happy. And to think, if you had just been a bit more polished, a bit more clever, a bit more not you, then you would’ve been the First Man of Pittsburgh, but you’re not. Luther is in jail for lying, remember? Did you see the article in Pittsburgh Gazette? Not the most flattering of pictures of you, is it? And did you see how quickly you were dismissed by first Brian and then by the man that has replaced you in every way, Justin? If you are honest with yourself, you never ever had a chance with Brian. He loved the pathetic attention that you gave him. Who wouldn’t want someone fawning over them…”

By the time I hit send on the email, I am feeling very pleased with myself. If that doesn’t rattle his tiny jealous brain then I am losing my touch, and I will not be bested by that insect!

WARDEN CLIFTON FLECK’S OFFICE - TWO DAYS LATER

TANK

We are all quiet, just staring at each other in shock.

“So which one of you is going to explain this to me?” Warden Clifton fumes, her eyes blazing.

Nobody says a word.

“Come on, Mr FBI man, surely you know why I have an undercover cop, FBI agent, and a whatever-the-hell you are in my prison for the same person?!”

We three look at each other and I sigh. “I knew about Mouse, but as for Brock, I didn't know about him.” I can't believe this myself.

“So where do you fit in?” She demands of Brock.

“Bodyguard, private hire.” He clips out, then glowers at me like I made him be here. “And client confidentiality prevents disclosure.”

I chuff a laugh then pull out my phone to call my partner on the outside. “Hey, can you check with Faal…” I pause and look at him. Although he tries to hide his reaction, I spot the relief. “...no Zaden, if she put anyone on her old man. I will hold.” For ten long minutes nobody says a word then he comes back on the line. “Okay, great. Thanks. Talk later.”

“Well?!” Warden Fleck barks, then holds up a hand. “Sorry, Tank, but you can appreciate that…”

“No probs, Cliffie…” I smirk at the use of the nickname.

“Get on with it!” She grumbles.

“Deep down she's still, daddy's little girl.” I murmur. “When did you go in?”

“Start of the trial, needed to establish myself.” Brock explains, still looking disgruntled.

“First, rule of undercover work: don't look like you are a bodyguard! Your stance gave you away; well, that and the way you kept body checking him! And there was more than you on him, right?” I snap, wholly pissed off by him being upset.

“Yeah, she had one on him when he went in first, and then I took over when he got jailed. Don't know why she bothered, hard nosed doesn't come close.”

“So now what happens?” Cliffie sighs.

“Brock stays.” I declare. “Take it you’ve been feeding back on Daddy’s well being?”

“No, she didn’t want to know anything about that, just to know he was not harmed. Like I said, hard nosed doesn’t come close. He has a lot of anger, and a deep need to top dog it.”

“Hmmm. Anything else?”

“Apart from him being sick? Nothing much, but he has been chatting to the newbie on the block a bit.”

“What newbie?” I frown, as I had been keeping an eye on Stockwell at Rikers, but he was moved to the ‘cop wing’ almost immediately so I had to step back as I have sent many a cop down there.

“The guy that was talking to the murder cop.” He scratches his head. “Now that is one bitter little bastard!”

“Roll it back and start again. Do you mean Jim Stockwell?”

“Yep, him. He and Novotny were chatty before, and now him and Stark are.” Brock sits forward and smirks as he knows he has my full attention. “He got another email from a Lindsay Peterson after her first, bigging her new life up with Faal, but Stark has said to me, and to him, that none of what she’s said in the first is true. And Stark is pissed at him, I mean really pissed.”

“About?” Mouse prompts.

“Novotny crowed about the death of his grandchild, which is also not true.” Brock looks as disgusted as I feel. “And Stark’s got something planned with him and the new Mayor of Pittsburgh.”

“Brian Taylor-Kinney?” Cliffie’s eyebrows shoot up and then she fans herself. “Such a shame about him, about them both. Utterly gorgeous! I mean, what about him?!”

“Novotny has that article that had them...well, you know.” Brock looks sheepish. “...seems to read it every day. And after that email, he tore the face out of the paper...”

“Which one’s face?” I ask warily, even though I know the answer.

“Justin Taylor-Kinney.”

“Hmm.” I am about to call my partner again when I have a thought and smile, as I remember something from his New York trial: he didn't recognise me at all. “Cliffie, I am going to have to talk to my boss, but I need to be in closer, to Novotny in particular. Peterson is stoking his fire and I don’t like it, not one little bit.”

TREEHOUSE - SUNDAY, EARLY MORNING

BRIAN AND JUSTIN'S ROOM

BRIAN

I look up, still marveling that after all these years the sight of the sky always surprises me. I feel Justin starting to stir, and reach for the coffee machine to flick it on. He flips himself onto me and opens one eye. “Just now.” He nods and closes his eye. This is our routine, which I love because of its quirky mundanity as he calls it. He reaches for my hand and drops it on his peach butt, then squirrels his between our hips to hold his favorite cocksicle then sighs into my neck. I stroke his hole, he strokes my cock...in rhythm until we cum.

“Perfect!” He declares. “As usual!” He hops off and saunters to the bathroom, I look at the machine. “How long?!”

“Five minutes.” I answer as I join him.

He hands me my loaded toothbrush and I stroke his cheek. “Need to shave.”

“Hmmm.” He mumbles around his brushing.

“I will do it.” I start brushing and he stops, we lock gazes in the mirror, he spits then gargles.

“The shaving or the transplant?”

“Both, I promise.” I reply after spitting and gargling. “Think we should also make an announcement in the press. What say you?”

“That I love you more than I thought possible, and yes, get Ben to make the statement. TV, not paper media though.”

“Why not?” I ask as I lead him back to bed.

“That way there are no misinterpretations. Look what happened when you were first elected: there was a host of inaccuracies, and it took Cynthia getting heavy with attorney threats to get a half hearted retraction!” He fumes and plonks on the bed. “No more paper interviews, please.”

“Okay, twat, no more.”

“Good, now gimme coffee!” He orders, sliding over to his side of the bed. “The devilish darling will be in soon and we both need coffee for that!”

I chuckle and pour them out before joining him in bed. He rests his head on my shoulder between sips. “Explain it to me again.”

“What? How I am a match for him?” He nods. “Not everything is about genetics. For example, with kidneys and hearts, you don't have to be related, you just need to have them; same as bone marrow. Whilst it is better that you are related, sometimes you can be unrelated to be a match.”

“Got it.” He lifts his head then looks at the door with a smile. “Who is it?!”

“Popopop!”

“Coming, MJ!” He laughs, and hands me his cup. I take out the sippy cup and the milk from the mini fridge. “Remember when all we had in there was Beam?”

“Yep!” I leer at him. “And a couple of toys. Think Faal would get another one put in?”

“If he doesn't, I will!” He leers back.

“POPOP!” MJ yells.

“Coming!”

“You will be later, at least three times!” I growl and then twitch when he wiggles into his boxers very slowly. “After I tan your delicious hide for that!”

LUNCHTIME

KITCHEN

FAAL

We are all staring at him. Zee is weeping with relief, she knew he would do it but now he doesn't have to. “Thanks, but…”

“But nothing. I am doing it for you, not him.” Brian declares, handing her another tissue.

“Give me the spatula, honey, I’ll finish the eggs.” Ems orders gently. She nods her thanks. “But what?” Ems questions, and we are now looking at him. “Zee said thanks, but...so but what?”

“He doesn't have to, we have found another match.” Zee explains tiredly, she and her brothers have been relentlessly searching and this morning we got the news. “So you are off the hook.”

“Still doing it.” Brian replies firmly.

“Why? Brian, you don't need to.” I demand, then look at a beaming Justin. “I see...you promised Justin, didn't you?”

“And I never break them.” He turns heel and starts to stride out. “Come on, Ben, let's get this done and get it out tonight.” He calls over his shoulder.

“Yes, boss!” Ben laughs as he follows him out.

“Justin, you need new toys for the fridge, which Faal will get?” Zee grins.

“How did…oh, never mind. Yes, yes we do. Come on, let's go to the workshop.”

“Uh, Faal, can you do the eggs? I need to talk toys too!” Ems almost throws the spatula at me and runs after them.

“God, I love this family.” I murmur, and crack more eggs for the eggy bread sandwiches with bacon.

FBI BUILDING - WEDNESDAY MORNING

AGENT WHITE’S OFFICE

TANK

“So what do you think?” I look at Rob, my partner of many years, and slowly he starts to nod. “Okay, I will tell Cliffie and you tell the family.”

“Who do we have in SCI Coal?” He asks.

“Apart from soon-to-be me?” I jest, and he purses his lips. “Nobody is in there, though I think someone should be watching Gardner Vance.”

“Vance?! What for?!”

“You really should look at the small fish too.” I grumble, and come around to his side of the desk, flicking his hand he lets go of the mouse. I pull up the report on the downfall of Gardner Vance and who he blames for it. “Look, see? Vance used to hire Kinney, but because of what he did to Stockwell, fired him. We know what happened to Stockwell, but it was Vance who paid the higher cost. He began hemorrhaging what few clients he had left before he begged Kinney to help him. He said no, and Vance was sunk. Word has it that now that Kinney, sorry, Kinney-Taylor, is Mayor; Vance has been raging…”

“Shush, I'm trying to read. So he got 18 months for arson?!”

“Yeah, it was Kinney-Taylor's old loft.”

“Only 18 months for that? Too light!”

“Yeah, pleaded mitigating circumstances and had a good attorney, said he was drunk at the time and his previous impeccable behaviour got him that.” I grumble, and then frown. “When do you think he will be moved?”

“To be honest, the sooner the better; not just because of his health issue either, I think the further away he is from Novotny…”

“Yeah, after the second email from Peterson and the picture ripping, not good.”

ADIRONDACK PRISON - A WEEK LATER

MICHAEL'S CELL

LUTHER

“Are you paying attention?!” I snap, as his gaze goes once more to the paper: his precious as Fox and I have taken to calling it.

“Yes, yes.” He sighs, and turns back to Fox.

“You have got to get this down pat as he won’t be there to do it for you!” I snatch up the paper and give him a warning glance when he reaches for it. “You can have it back afterwards!”

“You promise?” He almost looks like he is going to reach for it again.

“Yes. Now we’ve got the orderly onside, we just have to get you to look like him.”

“Okay!” He beams. “Right, you have my full attention!”

UPMC HILLMAN CANCER CENTER

LUTHER’S SUITE

LUTHER

“The beast awakens.” I hear Zaden snarky drawl as my eyes start to open.

“Water.” I rasp.

“I could demand you say the magic word, but am not you.” She retorts. I watch her go to get some iced water and hold the straw to my lips. “It took, but then you got an infection. Took a couple of weeks for you to recover, but it is all good now. You go to SCI Coal next Friday.”

“Hmmm.” I  reply, and then my brain kicks in. “SCI Coal? Where am I?”

“Pittsburgh. So you going to tell me why?”

“Where's the prison orderly?” I try to keep glee out of my voice, knowing that we have got one over her.

“One sec.” She heads to the door and the orderly comes in and I swallow hard,

“No, the orderly that came with me. Where is that guy?!”

“That is the orderly that came with you.” She snaps.

“But that's not him!” I exclaim.

“They say being sedated for a while makes you forgetful. You can leave now.” She tells the orderly, and with a nod he goes. “So what did he say or do for the beat down?”

“What?” I frown and try to get my somewhat muddled thoughts in order.

“Novotny. He’s a right mess. So what did he say or do to get the beating?”

FIVE HOURS LATER

ZEE

His room is on lock down. All the family is here. I take a breath as the phone rings. “Stark.” I snap, and the room goes quiet as I lean back against Faal and listen to the answers to my earlier rapped out questions. I hang up and try to settle my rolling stomach.

“Well?!” Zeus demands.

“He died yesterday morning, never woke up.” I reply before stepping out of Faal’s embrace. “What in the fuck’s name were you thinking when you came up with that?!” I get right in the face of Luther. “He beat him to death, and now because of you and your make up buddy, Fox, we have…”

“You have…” Luther begins, but I cut him off with a look.

“We have two nothings and a something.” I growl out, and want to rip out his IV. I stalk to the door and pause before I open it, because he will know what I did the moment he sees him. “Come on in.”

“Brock, what are you doing here?” Luther gasps.

“What do you know?!” I snap at him. I have to take my anger out on someone.

“Novotny was in the infirmary the same time as Luther pleading sick. He left a day before Luther was taken up, and we all thought it was going to plan…”

“Except he changed the plan! Who did the beating?!” I spit, neither of them answer. “Novotny then. So he batters the orderly, the semantics we can go over later, we have two nothings and a something. So all non-essential family members need to get the hell out of the States.”

“No, we’re not doing that, we’re staying here!” Carl exclaims.

“You are all leaving. The facts of the matter are we don't know where he is or what he looks like, but we do know one worrying thing…” Again I try to settle my stomach, the quietness of the room doesn't help. “...with the picture tearing and the murder of the orderly...we know he is coming for Justin.”

“Luther, I want you to look at me.” Brian demands and without hesitation he does. “Anything happens to Justin; I take my marrow back, and you will be awake whilst I do so!”

JUSTIN

“Uh, Zee, I am not leaving Pittsburgh. I survived a bashing, his attempts to manipulate everything and everybody, ergo I will survive this!”

“Newsflash, Justin, nobody knows what he looks like, as we don’t know what the dead orderly looks like!” Brian snaps. I know it's coming from a place of love, but...he catches my flared nostrils and pulls me into his embrace.

“Nice save.” I mutter, and wrap my arms around him.

“I can’t bear to lose you. Almost did once at the hands of a jealous asshole, and can't go through that again. Neither could MJ or Gus. Please, can you just bear that in mind before you decide anything?” He strokes my hair as he speaks. “Please, twat, just think about it.”

“Excuse me! But world class security team here, nothing is going to happen to him!” Luther growls and we are all surprised by this. “Her grandfather and I taught them everything they know. She, much to my annoyance, knows better and taught better. If anyone can get this asshole, it’s her.” Nobody says anything and he looks skyward before huffing an annoyed breath. “That’s it. No punchline. No bitching. She’s excellent, and so is Fa...her husband. They will keep you safe.”  Then he smirks. “So you had a couple of people on me? One who was willing to go to jail…”

“I repeat again what I said the first time you referred to me as your daughter. I wanted you to serve the time you got, and you mean nothing to me.” Zee retorts. “Now the first thing we need to do is get you to, maybe South Africa because…”

Everyone starts to object at once, in the end Zeus whistles loudly to get everyone to quiet down. “Zay, we can’t all go to South Africa, we have commitments and…”

“Not everyone, just the…”

“No to South Africa.” Faal interrupts then smiles. “How about Portland? I am sure that Emily and Francine would love to see the family again.” There is nodding from all apart from Zee who looks very thoughtful. “What’s up, Lig?”

“And DJ stays here too.” We are all stunned and she smirks. “And we bring Lindsay back.”

“Okay, where are you going with that?!” I exclaim. The very idea of the two of them in the same city as me makes my stomach roil.

“He still believes her.” Luther starts to nod. “Lindsay, I mean, Novotny still believes her over me.”

“Hmm can’t think why.” Faal remarks dryly, earning a scowl.

“And the best way to prove it is for him to see it!” Zeus exclaims. “That might force him out into the open!”

“Or at least closer to us.” Zee pulls out her phone. “Bring her back tonight. He’s already got a head start on us, let’s reel him back a bit!”

“Question?” I look at Faal. “Has the beating of the orderly been reported in the media, showing his picture or anything?”

“Let me check.” He paces as he calls and even more as he listens, he frowns as he hangs up. “No it hasn't. They intend to keep a tight lid on that kind of thing, why?”

I turn to Luther. “Nobody gets beaten for free. What did you give him?”

“I wired some money.” He admits, then looks pleased at the gasps. “Not all my assets were frozen. Once they separated from the other money, I was given access to it.”

“How did you do it and how much?” Zander glowers as he holds back an advancing Zeon.

“My accountant and $15K.”

“Did Michael know that?” I demand, my heart racing as I think about his grasping nature.

“Yeah.” He replies slowly.

“Get them to check his personal effects, see if the orderly’s credit card or anything monetary is still there!” Brian demands before swooping down for a torrid kiss.

“Ahem!” Mom declares. “Explain to the less enlightened.”

“He looks like him. Had his pass. So maybe he took the card, and…”

“Has been using it!” Mom exclaims.

“What was his name?” I growl at Luther.

HOTEL INDIGO, LIBERTY AVENUE - NEXT DAY

MICHAEL’S ROOM

MICHAEL

“Ouch!” I yelp as the glue pulls hard on my eyebrow. “How did he do this all the time?!” I finally get the mask off and wiggle my face to get the blood flowing again. “Well that was a success!” I crow, then open the bottle of beer from the mini fridge; I take half of it down before carefully putting the mask on the stand that Orderly Jacob Jones bought for me. I wonder how he is. I never thought I would enjoy beating someone so much…

Start of flashback

ADIRONDACK CATACOMBS - JUST OVER THREE WEEKS AGO

MICHAEL

I watch the orderly neatly fold his clothes and then he gestures to my prison garb. I am not sure why I am so nervous, it is not me that’s going to be getting the kicking! He puts my clothes on then I am just in my boxers.

“Put the gag on, Jones.” Luther demands. “And you put on the boxing gloves…” He sighs as I frown at him. “...you can’t hit him bare knuckled, how would you explain it for a start?!”

“Oh right, sorry, didn't think.” I mutter back and my hackles rise as his sneering expression.

“So we’re going to mess up your face and chest area. You understand?” Brock tells him and he nods. “Right. Novotny, come on, remember as I showed you, just punch him in the ribs first. Take a big ole swing back...think of someone you really want to hit.” I draw my arm back and when it connects he gasps and doubles up. “Good, now continue like that…”

After about forty minutes, he is a bloody busted mess. Even though I am nauseated at the state of his face, the adrenalin high is ecstacy! I have released some anger, no prizes for guessing who I was thinking of...Boy Wonder!

“Okay, enough.” Luther orders, and I step back. Jones is motionless. “Check his breathing.”

Brock kneels down, and after a few minutes nods and gets up. “We’re going to raise the alarm, you get changed and head straight to your cell. Understand?”

“Yep.” I pant out, but can’t take my eyes off of Jones.

They quickly leave and I start to get changed but then I look at him again. “Where’s the harm in a few more kicks…”

End of flashback

I finish the beer and then take out the newspaper. It is starting to look a little tattered now. I still can’t believe he is mayor! That should’ve been me at his side, but oh no, he had to switch tastes and decided that he liked blonde chicken! And on top of that, when I found out that he was going to be making a donation to as then unidentified family member I was worried. I remember watching the TV whilst in the hospital room with Luther and he started to chuckle. I asked him what was so funny, and he said he never would be family to him…

Start of flashback

LUTHER’S HOSPITAL ROOM, PITTSBURGH - NIGHT BEFORE THE OPERATION

MICHAEL

“What do you mean by that?” I demand

“That’s me. The family member. I have aplastic anaemia. My bone marrow is deteriorating and needed a match. He’s the perfect guy.”

I just gape at him. “How the hell did you convince him to do that?!”

“I didn’t, his husband did. Apparently he can be very persuasive.”

“Oh, for fuck sake!” I seethe.

“Why does this bother you so much? You are out for a week, he’s here tomorrow for the transplant. At least you get to be by your true love!”

“That’s something I suppose.” I grumble, and turn back to the TV, my thoughts now focused on seeing Brian.

AFTERNOON, NEXT DAY

I have been walking around the hospital without a care in the world. Everyone has taken me as Jacob Jones, and the stories I have been hearing about some difficult patient spurs me into action. I am surprised to see a flurry of activity and rush to see what’s happening.

“He’s crashed!” A nurse is screaming as he rushes inside the room, I try to follow to see who it is. “Unless you can help, get out!” I am ordered; the prison guard, who accompanied us, on hearing the shouting pulls me out.

It is the longest 10 minutes ever as I pace outside the room, but finally the doctor comes out and looks relieved.  “How is he?!” I demand.

“Jones! Stark is fine, calm down!” The prison guard snaps. “He’s going nowhere, we might as well go back to the hotel. There’s nothing we can do now.”

“I would rather stay.”

He looks quizzically at me. “I don’t get why, you’ve never liked Stark.”

“People change.” I return, tamping down my laughter at the truth of that remark.

“Okay, well see you tomorrow.”

“Yeah, see you.” I wait for him to disappear from view and head to reception, it takes a while for me to get the receptionist’s attention. “Can you help me, please? I am the orderly from…”

“Yes, hun, I know. It was a bit touch and go there, wasn’t it?” She smiles kindly at me.

“Yeah, bit of a worry to say the least.” I sigh. “But he had a message for me to give his donor, but obviously with all of…”

“Yeah. Let me see here…” She looks at the screen for a few long minutes and I itch to pull it around to me! “...well, you can use that phone over there, hun.”

“Phone? Why would I do that?”

“The donor is not in this hospital. He was going to be here, but then something came up so it was transported. Oh, actually, maybe you’d like a bit of privacy, I can check for a room if you want?”

VISITOR’S ROOM - 10 MINUTES LATER

He’s not fucking here! Something came up! I bet that something has blonde hair and a fat ass!

“All of this for nothing!” I spit, yanking off the badge for Jones and throwing it on the table. “He gets $15K and I get fucking nothing!” Then something catches my eye. Behind the badge is Jacob’s credit card...a contactless credit card...oh my fucking god, how dumb is this man?! In a prison, he also has his pin number written down. “Maybe this hasn’t been a bust after all…”

End of flashback

I crack open another beer and still can't believe I am almost home! I made my way to Liberty Avenue slowly using trains and cabs to travel across the state. Luther wasn't kidding about the bribe. Judging by the amount he has in there, he's done this more than once. As I head to the bathroom I think to myself I shall pay the diner a visit tomorrow. Enough of this staying in the hotel and just popping out occasionally, the diner will be a true test of my disguise!

SCI COAL - SAME TIME

GARDNER VANCE

I fume as they take their time checking my things. My life has come to this: a box.

“One Matek watch, stopped; hmm, thought the batteries lasted a lifetime. One wedding ring; one passport, cancelled; one wallet with the following cards: Amex, expired; Visa, in date; Mastercard, expired; and personal bank card, expired. Wallet also contains $678.34 in cash. Could you check, Mr Vance, against the original list that this is correct? Then count out the money.”  The guard orders. I quickly read down the list, look again at my things, and count the money. “All good?” I nod. “Sign, please, and you are free to go.” He smiles. I just grimace in return as I sign. “Good luck, Mr Vance.”

I take the box with a scowl. Thanks.”

“Follow the guard.” He orders. As I walk away I hear a clink. “Mr Vance, you dropped your ring!”

“It’s yours! There's no wife to go with it!” I snap over my shoulder. “Ooof! What did you stop for?!” I gasp.

“Go back and get it!” The guard snaps. With a sigh I turn back and pick it up.

“I am only going to throw it away.” I grumble as I walk back to him.

“That's as maybe. You still need to go out with what you came in with.” He tells me, leading me to the front gates. “Is it real?”

“Of course it is! It is a mix of platinum and white gold!”

“Then melt it down and make it into something else.” He suggests. Whilst I scowl again, the idea has merit. As I step back into freedom he clears his throat. “How you getting to where you are going?”

I am taken aback by the question as I hadn't thought of that. “I don't know.”

“You want to wait inside and we can call you a cab?”

“No, to the waiting inside I mean, but yes to the cab. Please and thank you.”

“Okay. Where you going?”

“The nearest bar.” I sigh, and he nods whilst smirking.

BREWSERS SPORTS GRILLE - FORTY MINUTES LATER

GARDNER

I freeze as I look at the screen. “You are kidding me?!” I hiss quietly, and try to take in the news. “When did that happen?!” I demand of the barman and gesture at the TV, then the report changes to another shocking revelation. “Jesus!” I exclaim.

“Yeah…” He sneers at the screen. “...nobody's going to miss a bent copper.”

“But I thought he was jailed in Adirondack.”

“Must have moved him.” He shrugs. “Want another?” He points at my glass, I just slide it to him.

“When did it happen?” I murmur, still fixed on the TV. “When did both of these things happen?”

“Kinney-Taylor being mayor about three months ago. He is going to be taking office in three months. As for Stockwell, last week, shame that.”

“A shame?!”

“Yeah, that it was a heart attack and he didn't get the shanking he deserved for letting that kid’s killer take the easy option!”

“It was never…”

“It was proven. They covered it up, those concerned citizens did the right thing by exposing him. The inquiry found him culpable for it.” He stops the tap and clears his throat. “You a fan of Stockwell?”

“No, of course not. I was going to say it was never in doubt that Rikert did…”

“Good. You know who I pity? No, not pity, well apart from his wife and kids. You know who I am glad also got burned in this?” I shake my head. “The people who supported him. And I was glad that it was the news that killed him.”

“What news?” I now turn my attention to him instead of the screen.

“Remember his campaign to be Mayor?” I jerk my head as it was that which ultimately cost me everything. “Well, he made this big song and dance about Brian Kinney-Taylor being his close friend who happens to be gay. But did he do anything about those unsolved murders that were pointed out to him at the GLC? No he didn’t. Claimed they didn’t have fresh leads. Well, that’s a bunch of bullshit! First thing Kinney-Taylor did when he was elected was have them all reopened and two people have already been questioned. And no fucking surprise, one of them was the guy who bashed that guy, Darren.”

My jaw and the beer hit the floor at the same time. “Oh shit, sorry about that!”

“It’s okay.” He mutters before coming around with a mop and bucket. “Yeah, so according to the news reports, he croaked when he heard about it. Good riddance to bad rubbish. Do you want another one?”

“No thanks. I have to be going.”

OUTSIDE GARDNER VANCE’S EX-HOME

REALTOR

“I don’t know what to say to you, Mr Vance. I am following the instructions of the client, and…”

“She had no fucking right to sell my house!” He bellows at me, his eyes bulging out of his head.

“Please calm down, Mr Vance, or I shall call the police!” I snap. He breathes in deeply and the veins in his head stop throbbing.

“Do you have a contact number for her or even the person that she sold it to?!”

“No, unfortunately I am unable to give you that information. Client confidentiality, you understand.”

“All too fucking well!” He snaps, then turns heel and starts walks away.

Reaching for my phone, I dial a number and head to my car as I wait for her to pick up.

GARDNER

I can’t believe my bitch of an ex wife has done this to me! I watch the realtor get into his car and wind the window down. I walk slowly up to get as close as I can without him seeing me.

“Ah, good day to you, may I speak to Mrs Ugerstacht please? Yes, it’s Felix Michaels. Yes, I am dealing with the sale of the house formerly owned by Gardner Van...”

His words fade into the ether as my anger mounts. Her! Again! I try to calm my racing heart. I need to listen carefully. And as I do I can't believe it! She is selling my home, my pride and joy to Brian Fucking Kinney! No way, no way is he getting this. I have to stop them!

OUTSIDE BRIAN’S OLD BUILDING, TREMONT STREET - NEXT MORNING

MICHAEL

Why is there nothing here?! I don't understand it! I had every intention of going to the diner yesterday, but then I discovered the porn channel and ended up watching that deep into the night, whilst getting very drunk. I have a hell of a headache and am hungry, but wanted to see the loft one more time, but it is gone.

“You okay there, buddy? You look lost.” A guy comes up to me.

“Just wondered what happened to the building that was here.”

“Arson, they had to tear it down.” He replies then smiles, I think a little wistfully.

“What?”

“Ah, the stories I heard about what happened in that building, especially the top loft.” He sighs and my hackles rise.

“About whom?”

“The former Stud of Liberty Avenue…”

“He’s still the Stud.” I interject.

“True, but just for one guy. Heard that one guy said that he could feel them both for hours afterwards.”

“Both? What do you mean both?”

“What do you think I mean? Said first it was the Stud, then his Prince and then both of them together. Described it as sheer joy, tiring but joyful!” He laughs then tilts his head. “Have you ever…”

“Of course I have! Look at me!” I growl, then I am piqued when he takes a slow unimpressed appraisal.

“Well, you’re definitely an improvement on his former best friend. Now that was a thing of ugliness. Glad he’s banged up.” He looks at his watch. “Well, I gotta go.”

“Maybe you’d like to meet for a quick drink.” I suggest with a smirk, wanting to show him how wrong he is about me...a thing of ugliness?!

“Nah, you're not my type. Besides, my boyfriend would be unimpressed.”

“You don't know what you’re missing.” I tease him and take a step forward, he steps back.

“Got steak at home.” He states coldly and folds his arms. “Be on your way.”

“You don't tell me what to do!” I snap at him. “Besides, you were the one who ‘had to go’!”

“And you're the one who isn't taking fuck off as an answer, so I would rather see the back of you first!”

Fuming, I storm down the street. I look over my shoulder for one final glimpse at our history. I sigh as I remember that one drunken fumble after his dad died, cursing myself for stopping him, for wanting it to be perfect. I am pulled out of my musings and smirk as the guy is still watching me.

“Too late, buddy, you missed out!” I shout. He shakes his head and starts to walk away. “You regret it and you know you do!” I bellow before, feeling very smug, I start to head to the Diner, then change my mind.

RED CAPE COMICS - 10 MINUTES LATER

MICHAEL

Furious does not come close to the anger I feel for what they have done! What Buzzy, then I brought to Liberty Avenue was a perfect diamond, but now it is tawdry rock that takes over an entire block and over two floors. I look through the window and feel sickened over what should've been mine, if Boy Wonder hadn't interfered all those years ago. I push open the door and get a cheery hello from some twink behind the counter. I don't respond, as I am fighting the urge to scream or cry.

“Good morning, sir, can I help you at all?”

“No.” I bite out and head upstairs as I take in the state of the art room with its pinball machines and arcade games. “I hate him so much!” I mutter, but then something else catches my eye. Sweat breaks out all over as I look at the game: Rage in the Machine! “What the fuck is this?!” I storm, and stride over to check it out. I am almost there when a guy beats me to it, but I am determined to see what this crock is about.

“There is a queue, dude!” Someone calls out from behind me, and I turn around. A guy points to the other end of the sofa. “Take a ticket then a seat.”

“I just want to watch it being played.” I argue as calmly as I can.

“I don't want you to watch me.” The guy at the game calls over, but never taking his eyes off the screen.

Sighing crossly, I am about to get a ticket when I feel the mask starting to come away from my face. Clapping my hand over the side of my jaw, I run downstairs and back to the hotel.

BROHOUSE - MID-AFTERNOON

OFFICE

MATT

We are all staring at the screen, holding our breath, as Luther, Hunter and Jenny concentrate. We were going to Portland this morning, to join everyone else, when I got the call, so we are flying there tonight now, because as well as dealing with that, we had to help Mom get him here first. Nobody was as surprised as him when she said he was moving in. When questioned, she said it was because of Novotny, and whilst that is partly true, it is also because deep down he's still her dad and the only person to hurt him will be her!

But right now because of a chance encounter we are hoping for a miracle of miracles to happen.

“Well?!” Dad demands.

“Sure you can't get in and tighten that up a bit more?” Luther squints at the screen.

“Move, Zan.” Mom orders as she comes through the door. She does some adjusting and the face becomes a bit clearer, but not by much. “Any better?” He continues to stare but then starts to nod as do Hunter and Jenny. “So that combined with the squawking voice and the walk means we have a location at least.” She then turns to face our saviour. “Come here, Kyran, I can’t...no, we can’t thank you enough.” Whilst Kyran accepts the hug, he looks sad. “What? What's with the face?”

“I should've followed my gut and went after him.” He sighs. “It was when he stormed off then started shouting…”

“Bullshit!” She and Luther rebuke him at the same time. “Okay, your take on this is what, Luther?”

He winces at the use of his first name by her. “You haven't seen him for a few years, you had no reason to suspect that it would be him. And what do you think would’ve happened once he realised you recognised him?” Luther looks at Mom and cocks an eyebrow. “About right?”

“Harrumph. Lucky guess.” She grouses and he shakes his head. “So, as I was saying, we know where he is, and…”

“He’s too close!” Luther snarls and the room goes quiet. “No way, no way are those babies staying here. I know this is my fault and my fuck up, before you remind me! No, Zaden, they can’t. You will lose your focus if they are here. You will be thinking about them. The family, need you to be 100% focused on getting him.” They lock gazes and we watch them stare each other down; Mom and Uncle Justin have been fighting Dad and Uncle Brian to keep the girls here, up to the point of angry silences and almost separate rooms! “You need to bring your Stark A-game for this. You know that I am right. For once stop being so damn bullheaded and concede!”

She scowls then rolls her eyes before huffing a breath. “Alright, pack them up, but they come back at weekends!”

“But…mmmm!” Uncle Justin begins, only to be cut off by Uncle Brian kissing him, and kissing him for a while.

“Ahem, put the boy down.” Luther orders, and Justin looks both dazed and peeved when Brian stops. “So what happens is this…”

“Ahem, what happened to me fixing the fuck up you caused?!” Mom snaps.

Slowly, Luther starts to smile. “This time I concede. The floor is yours.”

BROHOUSE - NEXT MORNING

KITCHEN

LUTHER

Zaden putters around humming, reminding me of her Mother when we first got together. For the first time since I was brought here, it is just us in the house. I hate feeling unsure, but I don't know what to make of this. She looks up as I cough then gesture at the table; she shrugs. Taking a seat, I regard her carefully  as she has tensed up slightly.

“So this gay thing, how does it work?” I ask. She takes her time turning to face me, she has a bowl in her hand quickly mixing something.

“Well, they wank and suck each other off or stick their dicks up their hot tight asses, thrust until they cum…” She stops mixing then approaches with a spoon. “...can you taste the cream for me?” I am too stunned at her candour to do anything other than open my mouth. “This is where you swallow.” She prompts, then reaches for the tea towel when my spluttering causes the cream to spray over her and the table. “How does it taste?”

“Needs a bit of salt.” I return, but as she moves away I grab her arm. She immediately drops the bowl and yanks herself free. I put my hands up and slowly stand. “Whoa! Sorry! Sorry! When did that happen?!” I point at her shoulder. “I hate tattoos, you know that!”

“You hate...are you kidding me?!”

“Why? To spite me?!”

“Oh piss off! Get over your damn self! I have a tattoo because it covers the bullet hole.”

“Bullet? When the fuck did you get shot and why wasn't I told?!”

“You were finished with me, remember?! Besides, you will hate the reason!”

“Try me!”

“Took a bullet for Faal when his gun jammed on a job in South Africa.” I stare at her. “Yeah, love him so much I was prepared to die for him! What do you to say to that?!” I sit down slowly and swallow hard. “Just as I thought, nothing!”

“He died in my arms. Never even opened his eyes, took one breath then was gone.” She stops cleaning up the bits of bowl. “He was so small. And the first one I held…” I fight the urge not to cry and succeed, I cannot show weakness in front of her. “...and he died.”

“So I didn’t kill him, you did!” She spits back.

ZEE

I don’t think I have ever felt as shitty as I do right now. The pain in his eyes is genuine, but to my mind it was deserved after all he said and did.

“And that’s why I couldn’t go to the hospital when you took a header down the stairs.” He continues, then closes his eyes briefly. “I couldn’t watch another one of my kids die.”

“Oh bullshit!” I can’t, no won’t believe this. “You called me, us, murderers time and time again and blamed us; well more me than him, for daring to survive the birth!”

“I know! And I should not have taken my grief out on you and I’m sorry!”

“Are you sorry about trying to get Lindsay and Grady together too? And don’t think for one minute that I was jealous! Why would I be jealous when I have a big fat steak of a man to greet me at home? No, hurting me was something I am used to, but to go all out to hurt Matt was…”

“He looked so much like him when he was born…” He says softly. “Just the spit of him and it winded me.”

“He...he did?” Now I am stunned as I have never ever seen a picture of Zebediah. Nobody has, as he refused to have any photos of him in the house, but Mom said she knew he had one, but not where it was.

“Wait here.” He mutters, and stalks out. Less than a minute later he is back with his wallet and hands it to me. “Right at the back.” My hands are trembling as I open it and pull out a small laminated picture; then blink rapidly. “See what I mean?” I flail for the chair and he helps me to sit down.

“Jesus.” I mutter as I stare at it.

“Turn it over.” He orders quietly.

“Who is...is that me?” I gasp.

“Yep.” His chair creaks a bit as he sits down then scrapes as he moves a little further back. “I always wanted a girl. Yeah, I know what I said, I remember everything I said and did. And like I said, she’s all you, apart from the eyes.”

“Why do you hate him so much, whiteness aside?”

He sighs as he sits back. “The same reason every father hates the man that replaces them in their daughter's life…”

“Try again, you weren't like that with Grady.” I retort.

“Ah, but Grady was about the money.” I blink at him for a few seconds. “Him I could handle and bend to my will, but he...Faal was, and is, all about loving you. I could not stand it!”

“You offer him money to go?” I scrutinise his face.

After a few seconds he nods. “Gotta speculate to illuminate - and it illuminated his principals. And your damn stubbornness.”

“Eh?”

“After he finished things with you, you stormed right back after him and got him back. Oh nicely tweaked on the rights.”

I smirk as I remember the look on his face when he came with Lindsay and Michael to try and reclaim them, then once more finding myself gaping at him; he waggles his eyebrows. “What do you mean tweaked?”

“Just cause you are Black does not mean you can shit on my family. I reworded a thing or three.”

“You...you did that?”

“Blood is blood.” He replies. “Can I have it back?” He gestures for the wallet and photo and I slowly hand them back. “Do...do you want a copy of it?”

“Please.”

We are both quiet, just taking on board what has been said, when the door is flung open jerking us out of our contemplation. Faal and Zeus screech to a halt  with concern on their faces. Part of me feels for him when they’re immediately at my back.

“What's going on? What happened to the bowl? Did he hurt you in anyway again?!” Faal rattles off questions, but keeps his gaze on Luther, while Zeus starts to clean up.

“Always did hate a mess.” Luther snickers. “I startled her that’s all, we were just talking. I shall leave you to it.”

“Talking? You and him were talking?” Faal is incredulous as he watches Luther start to leave.

“Will tell you later. What's with the hurricane?” I squeeze his fingers and he relaxes a bit.

“Novotny has been spending.” Zeus explains and Luther comes back in. He looks at me, I nod and he retakes his seat. “Uh…”

“And…” I prompt.

“He's been taking out large sums of cash. The only other time he has used the PIN is to pay for the hotel, but he has checked out now.”

“When did…?” Luther and I say at the same time. I raise my eyebrow. “Oh yeah, you fixing my fuck up.” He chuckles and I fight not to smile.

“Thank you. So when did he check out?”

“Late yesterday morning. And we know where he went, because the hotel called a cab for him. He was taken to the Bridge Place Hotel.”

“Jesus. He is really testing his mettle, isn't he?!” I glare at Luther.

“And that is important because?” Luther frowns.

“Bridge Place Hotel is less than hour from where his ex, Ben, and his new husband, Steve, live.” I explain before getting up and grabbing a bottle of red wine and glasses. I check my watch and do some counting on my fingers.

“Am good, make it large.” Luther scrubs his face whilst I pour. For five minutes nobody says anything as we try to make sense of what he is doing. “Get him to go back willingly.”

“He's having the time of his life on someone else's dime as per fucking usual; why would…” I stop and take a sip. “...can you word it right?”

“I got one idiot to sign, and I saw him as a son. What do you think?!”

“I think that that galloping grasping gargoyle is going to regret ever bragging to him.” I turn to Faal. “Send Mac for Lindsay.”

“Okay what and why?” Zeus frowns.

“If truth be told, if I wasn't such a vengeful hellcat then she would not have been able to gloat about her good fortune.” Faal pulls me gently into his arms and nods. “But I could not have her banging on in prison about how she had a millionaire waiting for her!”

“Zaden, what are you talking about?” Zeus demands.

“You didn't?!” Luther laughs, the first genuine laugh I have heard in a long while.

“Yep, she did!” Faal chuckles. “She had someone in for Lindsay too, to make sure that flat ass-et made it out alive so we could collect. So she came up with the flight plan idea.”

“Scary, just scary!” Zeus snorts.

“So the office then?” I prompt, and with yet another smirk Luther nods and leads the way.

“Seriously, what the frickin’ hell is going on there?!” Zeus mutters.

“I don't know, but I look forward to fucking it out of her later!” Faal replies.

“Not as much as I do!” I call over my shoulder.

ADIRONDACK PRISON, NEW YORK - A WEEK LATER

HOSPITAL WING

FOX

I look down the corridor and will my heartbeat to slow. The door opens, and in strides Jones. He nods and smiles as he passes the other orderlies and guards then makes his way to me.

“How's the patient?” He chirps.

“Fine, doing fine. Sorry about your Mom, she okay?”

“Yeah she's great. Just gonna put stuff away.”

“Great.”

MICHAEL (STILL MASQUERADING AS JACOB JONES)

As I get to the lockers I can't believe we pulled this off. Okay, I didn't get to see Brian, but I got out and I have some lots of money from his account, which I am sure that Fox and I can reach a deal with. I stuff the holdall into the locker and lock it, Jones is an idiot, not only did he have his PIN number he also had his locker code on the same piece of paper! I look forward to coming back to collect that!

“Hi.” I turn to the voice behind me and smile. “Craddock, Edward Craddock. I am one of the new guards. You are?”

“Jacob Jones, an orderly.”

“Jacob...oh, yeah heard the guys talking. Is your Mom alright? it must have been such a shock, heart attacks are scary!”

“Yep, it was. She’s getting there, but I may need to take some time off again just in case. So when did you start?”

“Last week. Looking after Michael Novotny.”

“Oh yeah, poor guy, such a mess. Happened just before I took Stark. Did they ever find out who attacked him?”

“Not yet.” He looks at his watch. “I gotta go, nice to meet you.”

“You too. Have a good shift.” He waves as he heads out, and I lean against the lockers before walking around to check if anybody else is in here but I am alone. I grin as I open the locker again and take out the emails that Luther and I exchanged a week ago from the holdall and reread them…

Luther: Novotny! You FUCKING IDIOT where the hell are you?!

Me: still in Pittsburgh, having a nice break, how you doing?

Luther: how am I doing?! How am I FUCKING doing?! Oh, just great, apart from the fact that you are roaming the streets! Get your ass back now!

Me: have you missed me? ;)

Luther: winking, winking are you buttfuck?! No I haven't missed you, but have some news that will have your hole clenched tighter than a virgin nun’s pussy! Jones is waking up and more importantly healing!

Me: so?

Luther: well when the swelling goes down, they are going to know that he is not you ain't they?!

Me: so I have time, I haven't managed to get near Brian yet.

Luther: how the fuck not? For a man so obsessed, I’d have thought that his house would've been the first place you'd go!

Me: I don't count that place as his house! That's their house, and the stench of his hubby lingers! I am talking about our place, the loft, but it’s gone! Some bastard burnt it! Anyway, I shall get to him somehow, I might follow his new press officer - shame he wasn’t as good in bed as he is with words!

Luther: for fuck sake, focus! I am on my way back to New York!

Me: can’t you try and stay a bit longer? I want to try Babylon tonight!

Luther: no I can’t! I have been passed fit to travel. Now get yourself back by the end of the day! Fox has given you a cover story - your mother had a heart attack and you were on compassionate leave. If you are not back by the end of this week, both you and Jones will have another fucking problem, do you understand?!

Me: Today?! I don't have enough money for a flight back! I can scrape together enough for a train or something, but that will take longer…

I remember it took him almost three hours to respond; when he came back with end of the week or he will send someone to find me, I was so happy! I had over $6 grand in cash on me so splashed out a bit and ended up getting drunk for three days straight. The hangover was so worth it! I hear someone calling out to Jones so quickly put the stuff away and stride out.

“Yeah, what’s up?”

The guy frowns briefly then gives me a sympathetic smile. “Uh, Warden just wants to check on you, see how you are holding up. Can you go to her office in an hour?”

“Oh sure, no problem. I think I will go and see Stark first.”

“Okay, Ward C, he’s caught a chill. Poor widdle baby!”

“Exactly. See you later.”

WARD C

LUTHER

My stomach is churning in anticipation and relief. Anticipation that the man that wished my granddaughter dead is back behind bars, and relief that a deal has been struck with the DA. I look up as the door opens and Jones comes in, smiling as he approaches. “You look well considering…” He smirks and takes the seat next to the bed with his back to the door.

“Thanks for your concern. She’s fine, thanks for asking.” He leans back in his chair. “So where is he?”

“Novotny?” He nods with a sneering smile. “Still in ICU, went back into a coma.”

“Back into...so why didn’t you contact me?!” He hisses.

“And how the hell was I supposed to email you that?! You are the one in a coma!” I look at this twerp with such disbelief that I wonder how the hell he managed to wank in the first place, let alone get it in the cup to produce a child of Jenny’s smarts! Seems the only thing she inherited was his smart, but in a better way, mouth!

“Oh yeah! Forgot that! I’ve gotten so used to being him!”

MICHAEL

Although I can just about understand why he didn't email me; I am still pissed that he didn't try another way of letting me know that I didn't have to get back so quickly.

“So…” I move the chair closer to his bed and he frowns. “...my Mom could fall ill again and I have to go and see her…” I watch the surprise flit across his face.

“Not sure why you are telling me this.”

“So I can try and…” I am interrupted by the door opening and it is Craddock.

“There you are, Jones, the Warden sent me to find you, wants to see you now.”

“Oh, okay. Will see you later Stark.” I wink at him as I stand and follow Craddock out.

WARDEN CLIFTON FLECK'S OFFICE - 10 MINUTES LATER

CLIFTON ‘CLIFFIE’ FLECK

I look up as the door opens and gesture to the seat in front of me, he sits down and adopts a sorrowful expression.

“How have things been?”

“Not good. I thought she was getting better, but had just received word that she's taken a turn again.” I sit back nodding and his sadness deepens. “I may have to take some more time off to go back to visit.”

“Of course, I understand. Can you bear with me for a minute, I just need to get something for my next meeting.”

He nods and I stride next door and collect the holdall. He is too busy looking around the office to notice. It is the thud of it being put on the desk that brings his focus back to me.

“So, Mr Novotny, before you are formally charged with absconding from jail and the murder of Jacob Jones amongst other crimes; take off his face!”

STUDY

BRIAN

I hang up and slowly smile at my bombshell. “He's facing murder one, and is lucky there is no death penalty in New York or they would have asked for it! He is going to die there!”

“Oh thank you!” He cries and shimmies around the room. “Thank god Carl and Debs are in Tuscany with Gus and Rodney.” He punches the air before wincing and shaking out his hand.

“Come here, twat…” I pat my lap then sit down. He wiggles himself comfortable and I give him a scorching look. “...so let me have it.” He puts his hand in mine and I start the massage. “And thoughts, not on him, the other him.”

“Ah, now there is a conundrum. Why help? No doubt he will do his utmost to drag Luther down, claiming some bullshit. Also, why...oh, that's good...is Zee letting him any…” My phone ringing cuts him off, we look at the ID then each other. “You have got to be fucking kidding me?!”

“Let it go to voicemail. See what she comes up with!” We wait for ages for her to leave a message, finally it beeps. “Ready?” He nods, and although he nestles, I can feel the tension building.

“Hi, Brian, um surprise, its Lindsay. I am now back in the Pitts and would like to come to apologise face-to-face to you for all I have done. My number, in case you have deleted it, is 957-666-1824. Hope to hear from you, I want to start my new life with a clean slate. Bye, Peter, love Wendy.”

We sit in silence for a minute or so before he starts to fume. “Did you notice, Peter, how Wendy wants to apologise to you, no mention of anyone else?!” I nod, having long learned, like he has with letting me think quietly then talk, to let him rant then think. “Oh, she has such a freaking fucking nerve! In case you have deleted it, of course we didn't because we knew sooner or fucking later you would be calling back from hell! The triple six is burned in my telephonic memory!”

“Ouch.” I whisper as he tightens his grip on my hand, he blinks then looks down and quickly releases me.

“Sorry, Stud.” He rests his head against my shoulder and sighs. “How are you so calm...ah I am angry enough, right?”

“Uh huh. So what are we going to do?”

“Well...ouch fuck!” He yelps as his hand spasms. Quickly I carry him to the sofa then lay him down; I kiss him gently before massaging his arm to ease the cramp while he tries to calm his temper.

He hasn't had a cramping like that in months. There is only one person that can induce this amount of tension in my husband, and that is Lindsay. Most people would think that it would be Michael to garner a reaction like that, but it's not and that's because he can handle him. He is smarter, swifter and stronger. Michael may play dirty, but against Justin he will never win. But Lindsay did win, albeit only for three years before he came back for good, and he hates her for it. I mean, mad-enough-to-smack hates her. This is one of the reasons he has never said anything to her, never revealed his real feelings.

“Better now?” I ask as his face softens and he smiles tiredly.

“Yeah. Bit stuffy in here.” He murmurs, sitting up then going to open the window, I pull him tighter to me and he sighs as the warm breeze washes over us. “She has that ability…”

“I know.” I kiss his ear. “She is a button pushing virago. Do you think she knows how much you hate her?”

“Nope, but I'm this close to telling her!”

“Calm. Calm.” I soothe, and he turns in my arms. “But at least that time she used her selfishness and wishing to be Lady of The Manor for good.” I manage to move my chin out of the way as his head comes up so fast. “She did! She is the reason I have you here. Think about it, if Lindsay hadn't been pushing to stay...then you wouldn't have lost it after her reasoning.”

“Reasoning?!” He exclaims, and again winces. “Calming. Calming.”

“It was the first time I have ever seen you that angry, and it was also the first time you cut me off, then not picked up when I tried to call you back.”

“Hmmm. I shouldn't have taken it out on you. It was just the way you said she said it. I think it was almost an hour later before I called you back.”

“One hour and twenty five minutes.” He looks astonished. “Yeah, that number is burned into my memory too.”

“Why?”

I close my eyes briefly then remember who I am holding. “I thought you were going to dump me.”

“What?! Why?!” He searches my face then snorts. “Old habits and thoughts dying hard?”

“Yeah. But do you see what I am saying?”

“Suppose.” He mumbles into my chest.

“You suppose?!” I swat his butt and he chuckles. We are quiet as I remember the best day of my life…

Start of flashback

THE LOFT - SEVEN YEARS AGO

BRIAN

“Are you calmer now? What the hell was that about?!” I demand as he glares at me,

“That is the final straw! I am coming home!”

“Fine.”

“And I want to stay in Britin.”

“Okay. So again, what was...”

“Fine and okay? That is all you have to say?! Fine and okay?!” He screeches.

“What else would you have me say?!”

“How about after three years I am delighted?! Or weren't you as miserable as me?!”

I stare at him. “You mean you are coming...back for good?”

“Yes! The crone-faced nerve of that vulture! She seriously said it is sitting there so empty, Justin has his life in New York now and clearly doesn't want to live there! Why not rent it out or sell it? You are in the loft most days and nights now aren't you? Ooh, that grasping gutter-hole! No way is she staying without me being there, no fucking way!” I dash to the safe. “Uh, what are you doing?! Major fucking queening here!”

“I know!” I shout over my shoulder, then roll my eyes as I find both sets of keys to the townhouse in there. “You twat, why are your keys here?!” I wave them at the screen, he had come up a couple of weekends back and I said to him to remember his keys! He most likely hadn't noticed because he went to Paris and Italy straight afterwards, and has only just got back. And, like always, when he returns, the first place he goes is his studio as he is buzzing with ideas.

“What does that have to do with this?” He snaps, standing up hands on hips.

“Because you can't get in to pack, can you?!”

“Pack? What do you mean pack? Will you stop running around for a...um, Brian, are you coming to get me right now?!”

“Yep, I am coming to bring my prince home! Now start to pack up your studio whilst I call Cyn and Ted!”

“Oh. Um okay!” He beams tearfully, and with a final blown kiss cuts me happily off.

BRITIN - THREE DAYS LATER

I smirk as he strides towards the door, rubbing his butt, I plundered him in his studio, the townhouse and the private jet Cyn hired for us, but when we finally got home, I made slow sweet love to him in exactly the same place the first time we came here. He pauses at the mirror and unbuttons his collar, making sure that the hickeys are fully displayed. Then, mussing up his hair, he finally opens the door.

“Justin!” Lindsay gasps. “What a surprise! Brian never said you would be visiting!”

“I am not visiting, I am living.” He replies, so I pick that moment to step into reception. “Hey, Mel, how are you?! You are looking well!” He grins then makes a point of scratching his neck.

“Wowsers, take it he was very pleased to have you home?!” Mel snorts as she tries to come in with the case. “Lindsay, what are you doing? You are in the way.”

“Uh, oh um, sorry, um, Justin, did you say living? What does that mean?”

“This is the castle my king bought for his prince; like Mel said, the prince is home, but home for good. Long live the prince! Now let me show you to your room.”

TWENTY MINUTES LATER

LOUNGE

“Not coming back down for a while, seems the headache has turned into a migraine.” Mel says as she closes the door. “So odd, as Lindsay was fine on the plane and in the car. She has been looking forward to staying, shame it has started off this way.” I can't look at Justin. “So you are definitely back for good?”

“Yes I am back forever and then a day more!”

“I am so pleased for both of you.” She smiles...then she winks.

End of flashback

JUSTIN

“You were louder than usual.” He sniggers and I feel the remaining tension ebbing away, “Want to know what I think?”

“About what?”

“Luther.” I nod and start to push us back to the sofa; we get comfortable with my head in his lap, he’s stroking my hair. “I think he wants to be forgiven and this is a start. He didn't have to say anything about Michael…”

“He only did when…”

“No, listen. He could've said nothing. He had met the family she has now and Michael could've messed with that.” I turn on my back to look up at him. “They are the same, they have the same fire and determination, and they protect what is theirs.” I take his hand and clasp it in mine over my heart. “Can't wait for MJ to come home tomorrow.”

“It is too quiet, isn't it?” I grin as our MJAC...Meghan Jada Alarm Clock...has been sorely missed.

“Want to make me get loud?” He purrs down at me.

I give him my answer by turning on my side to unzip his fly with my teeth.

ADIRONDACK PRISON - NEXT DAY

INTERVIEW ROOM 13

SHEAMUS HAWKS, MICHAEL'S ATTORNEY

He is vacillating between shock and anger. Shock because he is a murderer, and a thief; and angry that he was tricked into facing justice. At least according to him!

“So what happens to Stark, Fox, and everyone else, surely they should be facing accessory to murder at least?!” His pathetic whine jolts me back into the room.

“What happens to them is down to the authorities, but from what I have heard, they left you with Jones still breathing and semi-conscious. By the time he was found he wasn't unconscious.”

“That doesn't mean I killed him!”

“Yes it does, you were the one that hit him. And only you.” He slumps in his seat as that stroll down excuse avenue is stopped. “But I do know one thing that is happening to Stark. He is being transferred.”

“To Rykers I hope! Maybe he and Stockwell can be cellmates!”

“Stockwell? You mean Jim Stockwell?”

“Yeah, that murdering…” He stops then his eyes get really big. “How about I tell you something about Stockwell, could it help me get a lesser sentence?”

“A lesser sentence than the 50 you are already serving, plus a minimum of 20 for murder?!” I demand.

“He let him die!” He states as if I haven't spoken. “That cop who shot himself, he didn't call an ambulance. He watched him die! He knew he was guilty too!”

“And?”

“What do you mean and? This must help in some way?!” He almost shrieks.

“No, it does not. First, what he did has nothing to do with what you did. And secondly, he's dead so makes no odds.”

“Dead? What do you mean dead?” He gapes.

“Had a heart attack that killed him dead. That is what I mean.”

“When?!” He gasps.

“That is irrelevant, Mr Grassi!” I have had enough of his blinkered thinking. “I need you to listen and take this on board. The only person going down for murder is you, and the only person being transferred to Rykers is you!”

“Shit!” The guard whispers and I fight the urge to smile.

“Rykers! You can't be serious?! Come on, now, it was a few punches in the wrong place that's all! Can't I stay here?! Rykers is maximum security prison, hard core shit!”

“So is beating someone to death!” I snarl, then there is silence.

“What about Stark? You said he was being transferred, where is he going?”

I rub my temple then crack my knuckles. “Again, irrelevant to your plight right now. The evidence found corroborated their statements. You had agreed to remain with Stark during his hospital stay and the moment the opportunity presented itself you took off…”

“He lied to me about Jones!”

“What are you talking about?! You came back under your own steam!”

“No, he sent me emails!” He storms. “I have them printed out!”

“Of course you do.” I drawl and start to pull my papers together.

“I do! They are in the bag with the money, he emailed me last week!”

“Mr Grassi, whilst Luther Stark admitted what he did to get you out of prison, he has been in New York in the hospital medical wing ever since he woke up from his coma following his infection.”

“What?!” He screams.

“He never emailed you. He had no access to any emails.”

“No he did! I know he did!”

“No he didn't!”

“But...?!”

“Mr Grassi, he didn't! But I do know one thing, whoever emailed you knows you very well, they must do. I doubt there are many people who would be as stupid as you to come back when they had just committed the perfect escape!”

HILTON DOWNTOWN, PITTSBURGH - AFTERNOON, SAME DAY

LINDSAY'S ROOM

LINDSAY

I stare at my phone, willing it to ring. I am absolutely furious. I look around the room and scowl. My place of servitude was better than this! Whilst I am happy to be out of their bondage, their words of dismissal are still burning me to my core.

Start of flashback

JOHANNESBURG AIRPORT - TWO DAYS PRIOR

DEPARTURES

LINDSAY

“This is some kind of test or a bad joke?!” I snap.

“It is neither.” Zee retorts. “I realised something: keeping you in bondage may reap its financial reward, but an emotional one not so much. We don't need the money, so you are free to go.” I look down at my cases then back at her. “I am serious, and unlike you I do not tell a bold faced lie over something I don't need to. So here is your ticket, which we paid for, and the little you earned has been paid back into your account. Obviously you are going cattle class, could not have you sullying up first with your delusions of grandeur.”

“Behave and let's be gone.” Faal orders with a smile.

“Okay. Who is flying, you or me?” She grins up at him.

“Neither, Mel is.”

“Mel?!” I gasp.

“Yep, she and Leda have graduated from bikes to planes. Both have their pilot's license. Now let us go, we have wasted far too much time and energy on something so inconsequential.”

“True.” She regards me for a few seconds, long enough for me to become uncomfortable. “And to think, I was this close.”

“Close to what?” I demand.

“Being like you. So hellbent on getting revenge that I didn't realise I had the perfect one all along. Everyone does. Whilst you are free in the federal sense, you will always be in jail knowing that we have everything you crave.”

End of flashback

I smile to myself as finally the phone rings and it is Brian. “You underestimate me, Zee…” I check my reflection in the mirror. “...and now that I don't have to play coral the idiot with Michael, I will be back where I belong. Make no mistake about that!” I count the number of rings and connect the call just before it goes to voicemail. “Peter, oh Peter, is it really you?!”

LINDSAY

I make myself comfortable, put him on speaker then smile as he chuckles, I know that chuckle, it is the one that means he is very relaxed and content. “Oh,  it is good to hear you laugh.”

“Oh this is good too.” He returns quietly.

“I am so glad you returned my call. I didn’t think you would.”

“Hmm.” He murmurs.

“So what has been happening with you, Mr Mayor? I can’t believe it, but then I can, only you could pull this off! How did it happen?!”

“It...it was Zee. She got drunk and challenged me to run. And, well you know me…”

“Yes, Peter, I do. You never back down from a challenge. I am surprised though that Justin allowed you to do this, would not have thought that this is his thing.”

“He was...was….equally enthusiastic about it, especially since we lost the other bet.”

“Other bet? What other bet?” I frown then stare at the black screen, when I think I hear something odd “Are you okay?”

“Yep, am more than fine. So the other bet...” He pauses. “...100 fucks first.”

“100 fucks first?”

“Mmm. Zee, Faal, Justin and I had a bet that we could fuck 100 times in each other’s places, and, annoyingly, they won.” He pauses again. “And Justin felt it only right to restore the Taylor-Kinney honour.”

“Oh I see.” I grimace, the memory of Zee and Faal’s frantic coupling in the workshop is now in the forefront of my mind. “So where is First Man of Pittsburg? I hope he is not neglecting his duties as the mayor’s consort.” I want to say concubine, but I daren’t, well not until I am back in the fold. “Is he still painting?”

“Yep.”

I frown as there is definitely something odd about this conversation. “Brian, are you sure you are okay? You sound a little off.”

“Am...fine...and speak...speaking of off. Yes, get me off, get me off!” Gasping, I realise what was odd about this conversation! “Yes! Yes! Oh, yes, fuck yes! Heaven!” He groans, for a few seconds after there is nothing but the sound of him panting, next the gentle murmurings of post coital passion fills my room, I am rooted to the spot. I listen to their declarations of love and happiness; jealousy, anger and humiliation wash over me; how could Peter do this?! No, this is not Peter, this is all Justin, he has done this! I remember Michael telling me about the time he heard them and how it made him feel, never once thinking I would ever feel the same. “Are you still there? About just now, he kinda surprised me! And was most insistent.”

Then you should've stopped him!

“Who did?” I ask casually. “I went to get some wine. So where were we?” I continue as I start to calm down. I blink as the screen lights up and their smiling faces fill it.

A video call with lights off! That’s what was odd!

“Then why don’t you have wine?” Justin smirks and they share another kiss.

“I do, it’s...”

“In answer to your questions, yes, I am still painting, and no, I am not neglecting my duties as the mayor’s husband, we’re married remember? In fact, I have a show just before his inauguration, I would...”

“Let me up, need to shower.” Brian murmurs, kissing him again before sauntering away, I fume as Justin watches him leave. “You coming?” Brian calls over his shoulder

“I’d better be!” He chuckles, and before I can say anything else hangs up.

Seething I head to the mini bar and drink straight from the bottle. “How dare that interloper do that?!” I snarl at the ceiling. “Oh, you may have won this game, but the match is far from over!”

THE LOFT - FIVE MINUTES LATER

MASTER BATHROOM

JUSTIN

God I love his skin. It is like velvet. He purrs as I rub the coffee body scrub into his back.

“So you feel better?” He asks over his shoulder.

“A little. She will come back with all guns blazing, but in reality I don’t know what she can do since she has no reason to…” I pause then frown. “...um, where was she?”

“What do you mean where was she? She said she was in the Pitts, and...oh, I see. We need to speak to Faal and Zee, wonder why they didn’t say anything to us about that.”

“No they did, they said they were bringing her back, but I thought that was to ramp it up with Michael. But now he’s back in jail, why have they let her come back?” He turns and wraps me in his arms.

“Don’t worry. There isn’t, like you said, much she can do. She’s barely got any money, no friends nor family. Who can she possibly team up with that can cause us problems?” I shrug and feel a bit better. “Now back to scrubbing my back,  then you need a shave...” I stroke his cock and look hopeful. “Yes, you can shave me too.”

“Really?” I can’t believe it, he has never let me do that. “Not that I am complaining, but why?”

“It's time.” He shrugs as he turns off the water and steps out of the shower, pulling me with him. “So I bought you one to use on me.” He pulls the towel off the rail and slowly dries me. I am shivering with anticipation, not cold. The room is filled with smell of fresh leather as he pulls out a shaving kit. “You know what to do, don’t you? You’ve watched enough. Now begin tonsuring.” He orders quietly and leans against the sink.

“Ton…” I question as I lather up the brush with a combination of oil and soap like he does for me.

“Tonsuring, it means shaving.” He replies, and swallows as I lather his cock and balls. I smile softly as his cock begins to fill and rise. “How do you k-k-keep still when I do that?” He groans.

“I have no idea!” I chuckle as I reach for the blade then get on my knees. “So it's downward strokes?” I look up at him and he nods. Ten minutes later he is hair, and more importantly, nick-free. “What do you think?” He's just staring at his reflection in the full length mirror.

“That I am an idiot.” He murmurs and lifts up his cock to inspect my work.

“Because?” I smirk knowing the answer but I want to hear it.

“I look fucking awesomely huge!”

“There is no denying that!” I laugh as he continues to admire himself.

“Uh, Mr First Man...come here now!” He growls.

ADIRONDACK PRISON - THREE DAYS LATER

INTERVIEW ROOM 2

SHEAMUS HAWKS, MICHAEL'S ATTORNEY

“Why didn’t you mention this before?!” I try not to explode at Novotny.

“Because I…”

“No, no way are you going to try and pull self defence out of this!” Warden Fleck bellows.

“It was! I was kicking him off me!”

“What do you mean kicking him off you?!” Fleck is astonished.

“I went to check him after they left because he sounded funny…”

“Oh I wonder why!” She spits. “You expected fine and dandy after being beaten around the head and upper body by you!”

“He agreed to the beating, he was paid handsomely for it!” Novotny again tries to justify.

“On the basis that he would survive it, not that you would kick him to death. Besides, why take the money?”

“But I didn’t mean to kill him!” Novotny exclaims. “It was an accident!”

“You had over $6000 of his money in a bag in his locker, plus there was the money you had already spent. And besides…”

“Okay, that was very wrong of me, but I got over excited and…”

“Hmmm. Over excited you say?!” Fleck sits down and opens the file. “According to this itemized bill, you spent over a grand on booze alone, hotels two grand, only the best suites for you it seems. Then there's the cross country travel. Now why did you do that? What, or should I say who, is in Pittsburgh?” I look at Fleck, there is something in her voice. “Why did you do this? Abscond I mean? You have had a relatively clean time of it here, why leave with Stark? From what I have heard of your association with him it was hardly a friendship, more a business one, you know, to piss off his daughter. So why?”

“I saw an opportunity and took it.” He replies.

“Mr Novotny, or should that be Grassi, you went with Stark as you wanted to see the love of your life because of the marrow matching, going with him gave you the opportunity to do that. But that didn’t work out, did it? Not only did Mayor Taylor-Kinney…” She smirks as he curls his liip. “...yes, Councilman and Mayor-elect Taylor-Kinney not attend the hospital, but the moment you found out that Stark was incapacitated you headed straight to Pittsburgh, via cross-country routes. You laid low for a while before the urge to visit your previous haunts got to you, so you went to the loft previously owned by Mayor-elect Taylor-Kinney and then engaged in a fruitless flirting session with a man outside. And it was that man that ultimately led to your return. And then of course, there is your attempt to get back out again.”

“What do you mean?” I ask, having wondered how the hell they got him to come back. I only had the barest of information when I was assigned this fool and he’s not filled in much except to say that it was an accident and it was Stark who told him to return because Jones was waking up.

“Yes, what do you mean? I never…”

“Tried to say that your mother had taken a turn for the worst and might need some more time off? And then there is this…” She pulls out a padded envelope and then takes out the contents. “...have to say you are a quick study.” I stare at this thing in horror and then realise what she means.

“You were never going to stay!” I exclaim, he freezes, it is brief but he freezes.

“I don’t know what that…” He begins, his face pale.

“This is a mask of what could only be described as a regular Joe. Someone so ordinary that nobody would notice him. Feel no reason to be worried, a face in the crowd. And this was found right at the bottom of the money bag in a towel in the safety compartment that comes with these bags. And, speaking of these bags, these can only be bought from specialist security stores. And this cost Jacob Jones $275.”

“Jesus! It could be said that you didn’t mean to kill him, but you sure as hell had no intention of coming back!” I snap at him. “And that is what is going to send you to Rikers!”

“No. No it isn’t.” Fleck declares, and we both look at her in surprise. “He is going back to Pittsburgh.”

“What?” I demand.

“Yes, they want you where they can see you. And since the Ugerstachts and the Taylor-Kinneys have earned the trust and respect of the special services, we thought we would afford them this favour. You are to be transferred to SCI Albion, in a very secure wing. I mean so secure it could hear a ghost fart. You will serve out the rest of your sentence, plus whatever you get for this, being oh so close but oh so far from what you crave. And guess what?” Her smile is devilish. “Justin Taylor-Kinney is a sponsor of the rehabilitation unit there, and he will be the one to formulate your program. You know, to wean you off the person who forgot you existed two years ago and was only reminded when he got elected and had to exorcise some demons. Bring him in!” She yells over her shoulder.

The door opens and Novotny’s mouth drops open. “You?!” He exclaims.

“Yep, me. And I think it's time. My name is Lobe. Kyran Lobe. And I will be your transfer officer for the day.” Like Fleck, his smile is devilish. “And your custody guard for every second, minute, day, week, month and year of your sentence as long as I live.”

“Send me to Rikers! I would rather go there!”

“Tough shit.” Lobe chuckles. “He set?”

“Yes. His trial is in two months. The estate of Jones was to be settled first.”

“Understand. Now time for you to observe the first of two commands. You will refer to me as Officer Lobe at all times, and, secondly, Novotny up!”

COUNCILMAN TAYLOR-KINNEY OFFICES - NEXT DAY

STUDIO

SHORTY

Okay I knew I fucked up in the beginning but this hawking is really getting wearing. I think I have proved my integrity and...oh sweet baby Jesus, this man needs to put on some clothes!

“What are you doing in here?” Brutus demands as he wipes his chest with his tee.

“Checking the stills from the last few events they were at.” I reply quickly, and start to sort all the photos out and hang them to dry. “They really are beautifully made men.”

“They're humans not action toys!” He snorts as he comes up behind me. “Shit, you are really good.”

“Thanks. So um, are you stay…” I pause and look at the photos again. “...are you seeing...”

“How long ago was this?” He stares at the photos intently.

“Three weeks ago, after he absconded.”

“But that’s not him.” He pulls the photos down. “Who is this guy that has that expression on his face?!”

“Lemme check!” I unlock my laptop and start to look through the images of every single person that has ever been in the lives of Brian and Justin. Okay, I am going to hold my hand up and admit it was a touch stalker-esque that I went to that length and made sure I found every wackadoodle that I thought would cause them a problem. It is not until I get back to almost eight years ago that I spot him. “Him! Who him?!”

“Vance. Gardner Vance. Former boss of Brian.” He looks again at the photos. “I need to make a call. Excuse me.” I watch him stride out then hear him say a name I never thought I would hear. I wait for him to come back in and say nothing but do apply lip balm. Then get right in his face. “Shorty, what are you doing?”

“Well, first I am going to kiss you…”

“Uh, what? You aren’t...”

“Yes I am. First the kiss, then you are going to tell me how long you have been working for Stark.” We stare each other down before I put my hands on his shoulders, surprised to find him trembling. “With or without tongues?”

“Just kiss him so he can explain when my dad hired him!” Zaden orders she strides in to the room with a smile on her face. “So gets to smooching!”

BRUTUS

I am trying to gauge how she is. I have, obviously heard of and know who Zaden is, but never got this close to her. She doesn’t look too mad but I am not sure.

“I don’t know what…”

“Zeus knows a lot of things but he is sloppy. If he thinks you checked out before, then he doesn't do a revisit, I always do.” Zaden settles on the desk. “Kiss him, have questions that need answering. You know so I compare and contrast to the bullshit Luther will come out with. Though I am hoping he doesn’t.” She finishes softly before bringing herself back in the room. “Crack on!”

I look down at Shorty and he is just looking at me, waiting, waiting for me to make a move. “Um…”

He steps so close that he is almost in my pants. “Lower head please.”

Slowly I put my arms around him and his demeanour changes. He goes still and pliant, he licks his lips and loops his arms over my neck.

“Oh you were so close to being the top Shorty.” Zaden laughs. “Now kiss and have done!”

When our lips touch, I notice two, well three things, the first is very obvious...up periscope where is the enemy….second, is his lips, his lips are soft and taste of strawberries but it is the third thing, he is not kissing me back. I lift my head and step away. “So it has been about six months. Had to infiltrate and…”

“Woah, what’s wrong?” Zaden hops off the desk frowning.

“You have made your point, both of you.” I manage to keep my embarrassment at bay. “I take it you will tell Zeus?” I start to pull on my tee then frown at her snickering, “What is amusing?”

“Sorry I should not have laughed. But it is just so cute. Look at him. Really look.”

I look at Shorty, who has his head bowed but I can see he is red faced. “I don’t understand what is happening here?”

“Of course you don’t. You are curious. He is gay. He knows what happens you don’t, so he’s trying to go at your pace.”

“I have kissed a guy before!” I exclaim.

“And now he knows that.” I am surprised when she takes my hand and puts it on his shoulder. “Get back to smooching. If you need pointers speak to anyone in the family, not my sons! They have a repertoire to rival the Mayor and First Man!”

“Wow.” I mutter but then tilt up his chin. “Tongues please.”

SHORTY

His lips are so plump, slowly I put my hands in his hair and marvel at the softness. All of my boyfriends and lovers have been White, and to be with a Black guy is new to me. It may sound odd but friends have told me that there is an assertiveness like they are...oh my, what the hell?! I almost short out as I am am on the receiving end of a toe curling kiss. He pulls me into his chest and slides a hand up my back, under my top, it is like an iron it is so warm. But not as warm as his mouth feels. Our tongues are doing the bolero in my mouth, I am trying not to whimper because it is the best kiss ever! So I am most surprised when he stops.

“What’s wrong?” I demand.

“Nothing.” He gulps some air.

“Then why did you stop?!”

“Um…” It is then I feel the throbbing and can’t help the grin. “...so I need a shower.”

“Need help?” I tease him, happy that he has not let go of me.

“Wanna sit down?” He returns.

“I am not into that.” I blush.

“Me neither.”

“Then why say it?” I frown.

"Not what I mean."

"What do you mean then?" I gape at him after he whispers in my ear. “You have got to be joking?!”

“Nope. You would be my first ever.”

“But why? You are a good looking guy, surely you have gotten laid?!”

“Nope.”

“Oh this is not cute, this is adorable.” Zaden still being here surprises us but she doesn’t seem to mind our astonishment. “Go get cleaned up, but before you do what was with the phone call?”

“Oh um Gardner Vance is in a lot of pictures since the he got elected. He looks really pissed off.” I explain and nod at the photos. She looks at each one carefully before pulling out her phone, I feel Brutus tense up then let go of me. “What is…?”

“Babe get in here!” She bellows, Faal arrives but she is still texting on her phone and that surprises me. “Check them out.” She orders gesturing at the photos. “This is Zaden, put me through.” Brutus and I exchange puzzled looks. “I want a clean line.” For a few minutes nobody says a word but Faal is making circles on the photos.

“Hey, how long had Tank been on Vance and why was he taken off?” She pinches her nose and then says nothing but does nod and grimace during the call. It is a good ten minutes before she hangs up.

“Deets.” Faal demands as he rummages through the other photos I had stacked up ready for their approval. “When was he released?”

“Just after Stockwell died.” She replies. “Turned up at his old place and pitched a fit when he found out she had sold it to me. Paid it no mind, stupid of me.”

“Lig. Don’t take a walk down Guilt Avenue. He was not a threat then, we know he is now.”

“Threat?!” I squeak. “Um what do you mean threat?” I swallow hard as I realise something about the last batch of photos,

“What’s wrong?” Brutus growls.

“This photo was taken last week…” I pull it out of the pile.

“Yeah. While there is Vance there is no Tank.” Faal adds. “Where is he?”

“Appendectomy.” She grouses. “He collapsed before he could get his report to them. His partner was on holiday so there was a break in communication, his provisional partner saw no problem and didn’t assign cover!”

“For fuck sake it is basic! So fucking basic!” Brutus snarks. “Now I am out in the open, want me to find him?”

She and Faal exchange looks before she nods. “Now I have to speak to Da...Luther. You my darling need to call Brian and Justin, tell them we have, not we may have, we have a problem!”

“Okay. Brutus do you pack?”

Pack?!

“Yes.”

“You carry a gun?!” I exclaim then wobble, three sets of hands reach to steady me. “Why?!”

“In case he goes down.” He nods at Faal. “Zeus may have hired me, but Luther’s orders are that I die before she does.”

“Not one word!” Zaden declares before walking out.

For a few minutes nobody says anything. “So now what?” I ask.

“I go interrupt MJ time.” Faal sighs. “Why can't we just catch a frigging break from the craziness?” He gathers the photos and heads to the door before pausing and smiling. “Welcome to the family you two.”

“Thanks.” Brutus mutters then turns to me after the door is closed. “You have a problem with guns?”

“No. Just where you packed it!”

“Meaning?”

“Well it’s down there…” I gesture at his crotch. “...for that I am extremely relieved. That felt like a bratwurst!”

“No it’s here.” He pulls a gun from the back of his pants. “That is all bratwurst..”

I almost pass out.

He wobbles again so I hold him tighter. “So what is going to happen is...”

“That the position will be sit and sink.” He declares, smiling at me. “Need lots of lube though, and...that was not what you were talking about, was it?”

“Nope but good to know we are both on the same other page, I am way too heavy to do anything else! So, what I was actually going to say was, what is going to happen is that I am going to go on a hunt about and it would be great if I had a crack photographer to help.”

“Really?! I could go with you?!”

“Uh huh. Now first things first…”

“I reprint the photos and get the info…” I stop the jabbering by kissing him for a few minutes. “Mmm that was...I, I mean...can I say?”

“Say what?” I frown.

“I like the way you did that. That, the bossiness that I am into.”

“I am not bossy. I am an assertive but gentle giant, okay?”

“Okay.” He blushes.

“Now, the pictures.”

Ten minutes later we are heading to the car on our way to the hospital. Zaden was so furious that she has gotten Tank on lockdown, nobody in or out, and his regular partner is on his way back from vacation. Like Luther said somewhat proudly when he hired me, she has serious pull!

BRITIN - TWENTY MINUTES LATER

LOUNGE

FAAL

“Vance, seriously?” Brian scoffs then shakes his head. “He is way too British and civilised to do anything to us!”

“He torched your loft.” I point out.

“We weren’t there.” Justin retorts.

“Your cars were.” George reminds him, which stops whatever they were going to say. “He had every intention of causing serious injury.”

BRIAN

I look at Justin. He, like me, remembers that last time we saw Vance as clear as day…

Start of flashback

VANGUARD OFFICE - TWO YEARS AGO

BRIAN

Vance sounded so desperate. He called begging to see me. I had a spare twenty minutes before meeting Justin. I am about to step into reception when I hear said the dulcet and happy tones of Justin yelling my name. I wait for him to catch up, he looks very happy indeed.

“Meeting went…” The rest of my sentence disappears down his throat as he pulls me into a passionate kiss. I wrap my arms around him and tug, he gets higher on his tiptoes.

“Excuse me, but I would rather you didn't do that in front of my building.” We slowly separate and regard the haggard visage of Vance. “Can we start this…”

“How is that tone helpful?” Justin snipes. “You called him. And believe me, I can get him to ditch you in seconds with just one word!”

“My apologies.” He grinds out. “Brian, if…”

“Mr Taylor-Kinney, and he doesn’t go anywhere with you without me. I have heard it said that the English are the most closeted of cases, and he is a very sexy man.”

His eyes narrow before he sighs in defeat. “Gentlemen, please follow me.” As he leads us towards his office, I take in how shabby the place is. He gestures to the sofa, so we take a seat, well I take a seat, Justin sits in my lap. “A drink perhaps? You still drink Beam?”

“Yes. Just one glass, please, we like to share things; you know, like bed, saliva, cum...no ice though, I have gotten used to something warm, wet and sometimes creamy going down my throat where he is concerned.” Justin smiles and although Vance tightens his grip on the bottle, hiis hand is steady when he puts the glass on the table in front of us, then sits opposite.

“Well cheers.” He smiles thinly, raising his glass, but neither of us move to join him. “I will come to the point.” He sighs and puts down his glass without drinking any. “You are no doubt aware how my business is…”

“Sinking into the shitty quicksand that aligning yourself with Stockwell got you into.” I smirk and reach for the glass. “Yes, I am aware. Let’s toast that, shall we?”

“Come on, Brian, I am on my knees here. Be reasonable!”

“Nope.” I retort and tap Justin’s butt. “Let’s go. This swill smells disgusting, I am not risking the after taste when I suck you off.”

“Will you buy me out?!” Vance blurts out, leaping up to stop us from leaving.

“Of course not!” Justin scoffs, reaching down for the whisky. He sniffs and grimaces. “Why would we waste money on the likes of you?!”

“I am serious! I will be your junior part…”

“The word you mean is inferior. You will go the way of Stockwell, into oblivion!” I wrap an arm around Justin to pull him back against me, a move not missed by Vance, who frowns. “I am very protective of my husband. You almost ruined him and I haven’t begun to pay you back for that, but this is a nice start!”

“I apologised for that and he could’ve returned if he had accepted the terms of his re-employment!” He objects.

“I said no!” Justin explodes, shaking with rage and clenching his fists.

“Justin, stop. I can think of a better way to expend that energy. Let’s go to the loft.”

TWO HOURS LATER

We run down the street. “What the fuck happened?!” I yell at the fire marshall as he holds back the crowds. “Oh shit! Justin, please tell me that you didn't park in there?!” I look at his stricken face and get my answer.

“Brian, all my paintings!” He cries, and attempts to duck under the tape but I pull him back. “I worked so fucking hard!” He wails.

“I know, twat, I am so sorry.” I hold him tightly and watch the loft building being engulfed in flames. “So what happened?!” I demand again.

“Looks like arson.” He replies, wiping his face.

“Arson?!” Justin shouts. “Are you serious?! Where did it start?!”

“Top loft. Neighbour heard shouting then breaking glass; the guy running away almost knocked him down the stairs when he went to investigate, just got out himself. Hopefully, there wasn’t anyone in there.”

We look at each other in horror. We were going to overnight, but he got hungry and demanded we go eat something before the next round. We had left just half an hour before.

BRITIN - THREE DAYS LATER

STUDIO

BRIAN

I sigh and pull my guilt ridden twat into my chest. He is consumed with misery because it was Vance that lit the building up. Sadly, it has to be levelled, so he has convinced himself that him taunting him is the reason why.

“When you were going to go to Dartmouth what did I tell you?”

“People cause their own pain.” He sniffs. “But our neighbor could’ve...”

“But didn’t. And I am not letting you wallow in artist block and grief anymore!” I dump him on the bed. “What was the first painting?” I demand, picking up a brush and heading to the blank - for the last three days - canvas. “I know it was blue with spirals, um like this…” I paint a bad spiral and look over my shoulder. Although he neither speaks nor moves, he is watching me. “And then it had a mustard kinda cum splat at the end.” He swings his legs down as I splat drops of jizz on the canvas. “Oh, and then there was the sun setting in the background, a nice heart shaped peachy sun, bit like your butt.” His arms come around my waist and he snickers. “You going to start forgiving yourself and paint them again?”

“Yeah, but after you have made long and hard love to me.”

“Now you’re talking!” I hustle him back to bed.

End of flashback

JUSTIN

“So what do you need us to do? Obviously MJ and DJ go to Portland.” I ask, and see the relief in Brian’s face, I have never backed down from a fight, but, like Zee, I need to be focused.

“Thank you. Now this is the tough one…” Faal pauses and I know what he is going to say.

“Book us both in. I hate guns, but this is my family we are talking about, and as long as I live I will protect them.”

“Good. Now I need to see what Tank can tell us.” He grabs his coat and with a kiss to all three of our cheeks is gone.

“Now, young-uns, once you pass your competency tests and get those licences, you and I are going gun shopping.” George tells us, we must have looked surprised as he laughs. “You guys don’t do plain and Alice doesn’t do heavy.”

“Heavy?” I echo, and now we are both slack jawed.

“Alice has a gun?!” Brian exclaims.

George sits down with a guilty look. “Yeah, we both do. Have always done.”

“Why have you never said?!” I sit down next to him and take his hand, hoping he is reassured that we are stunned not mad.

“There was no reason before. Then, when you got upset with Faal having his gun, I told her not to say anything. We’ve been looking after the rich for years, and the ability to handle a gun is one of the skillsets. Nobody ever expects the help to be packing.” He searches my face for understanding. When he finds it he looks relieved. “And, young-uns, she is a better shot than me.”

“How the hell have you kept that from Zee and Faal?” Brian laughs.

“I have no idea!” George laughs.

“Come on, you three!” Alice calls from the door. “Lunch is ready.”

I smirk at Brian as we follow her back to the kitchen. “So what we got for eats?”

“Bone marrow sliders.” She calls over her shoulder.

I feel my heart swell as I see MJ copying Daddy as she feeds Lilah and Milo. I lean back against Brian when his arms wrap around me. We watch our daughter test the salmon with her little finger, then, with a nod, carefully put down Lilah’s then Milo’s plate.

“Come on, you two, food is getting cold!” Alice orders, and we quickly take our seats as George helps MJ wash her hands. “Oh, by the way, Zee knows, about the guns I mean.” She grins at us.

“How?!” George gasps. “And why didn’t you tell me?!”

“The night she found Claudia, you know when I asked her not to have it on her, she asked where mine was.”

“Wow, just wow.” Brian snickers then frowns. “As a matter of interest, where is it?”

“Never you mind, just know that it is close by!”

“So, Portland. Take it Vince is going with the kiddies?” George asks, helping MJ with her slider.

“Mmmm.” Brian mumbles around his, then once again frowns before chewing quickly. “Does Vince know about the gun thing?”

“No he doesn’t.” I reply, Alice smiles, then slowly Brian does too. “Because he would’ve told Daph…”

“And she would’ve told you.” Brian finishes.

“Eat, young-uns, the food is getting cold!” George orders.

As we do as I am told, I feel a bit sorry for Vance, because if there is there is one person who loves the kiddies more than us, it is George! Despite his grandfatherly demeanour, he is a tough man. I mean, nobody plays jokes on him tough! I snicker quietly as I remember the Christmas he threw the pair of them out and can’t wait for Vance to meet him!

SCI COAL - EARLY EVENING

VISITOR’S ROOM

LUTHER

“Who’s he?” I nod at the guy next to Brutus.

“Shorty.” Brutus replies. “He’s good.”

“Okay.” Sighing, I turn to Zaden, who is smiling. “And that is for?”

“Creeps you out and throws you off your game.” She retorts.

“I see…”

“Which is?” She interrupts.

“What which?”

“Him which?”

“Will you please stop this?!” Faal explodes. “Just stop it!”

“Faal…” Zaden recovers first.

“This psychological top dogging, when all you two desperately want to do is hug, is tiring!” He starts to pace. “You both have the same mindset: keep each other safe and alive!” He stops pacing, then kneels to takes my hand, tightening his grip when I try to pull away, well as much as I can with the cuffs. “She told me about the picture. You have never stopped loving her, and she has never stopped loving you. She is still your little girl. Can we please attempt to leave the past where it is, in the past? we have enough problems without you two trying to take a walk back down You Fucked Up No You Did Avenue!” Nobody says anything. “Truce? Please?”

I look at her and she nods. “Truce.” I reply.

“Good.” He stands up, clearing his throat. “So what did you find out, Brutus, anything? At least where he is?”

“Who are you talking about?” I frown.

“Gardner Vance. We think he is a credible threat to Brian and Justin.” Brutus replies, putting the file he brought in on the desk. “This is him. He has been everywhere they have, and didn’t take it well when he found out that Zaden had bought his old office building and former marital home.”

I look to the guard. “Either they turn the pages and you take dictation or you take the cuffs off; I am old fashioned in that I need to make notes.” He looks at Faal who nods.  I rub my wrists and flex my fingers. “I need something to write on.” I say nothing as a box fresh Moleskine notebook and pen is placed on the desk by Zaden. “Okay, let’s work.” I hide my smile as she sits next to me,  then together we read the file.

LUTHER’S CELL - NEXT DAY

LUTHER

I wipe my eyes and nose, then smile. Sitting up on my bed, I turn to the back of the notebook and take out the photo. “Just like her but lighter.” I chuckle before carefully putting it in the personal pack so that I can get it put with my effects when the office opens at nine. I check my watch, it is just gone seven. Smiling wider I settle down to go back to sleep.

VISITOR’S ROOM - AFTERNOON

I come to a halt when I see who is waiting for me. Slowly I approach and sit down.

“Hi.”

“Hi.” I reply. “Does she and your moms know you are here?”

“Yep.” Jenny replies. “If she can have a truce, why can’t I?”

“No reason, no reason at all.” I sit back and regard their Pitbull. “So…”

“DJ has the look down pat. And considering she had never met you, it is impressive.” She gives me a small smile. “So, what do you want to know about your grandchildren?”

“Everything.” I reply.

SCI ALBION - TWO DAYS LATER

DOCTOR’S OFFICE

MICHAEL

“So what happens now?” I ask of Dr Singer. He looks up from a file. “Is that mine?”

“No, he is reading a file of a completely different person and you are here to watch.” I feel gut punched and I look behind me. “Hi, Michael, long time no see.”

“What is he doing here?! Dr Singer, aren’t these appointments supposed to be private?!” I demand.

“Let me answer that, Dr Singer.” Boy Wonder sits on the side of the desk. “This is not an appointment, this is an evaluation. And as party of my psychology degree, I am allowed to sit in on one. Purely by chance I got you.”