2015

KINETIC - MONDAY AFTERNOON

BRIAN’S OFFICE

GUS

“It sucks and blows!” I glare at Dad, who is most amused by my predicament. “I would expect a degree of sympathy!”

“I am sorry that my genetics contributed to making you an honour student, and you have the onerous task of inducting the new students.” Dad intones with a smirk.

“Can you be serious, please?!” I huff, and put my feet on his desk, he knocks them off as I knew he would.

“Okay, what is the problem with this? I believe you have done this before, two years back?”

“Yes, but I was fourteen and keen then, I am sixteen and not so keen now!”

“But you committed to doing this.” I sigh and he snickers. “What is the name of your distraction?” He looks knowingly at me while chewing on the end of his pencil.

“It is a thing not a person.”

“And that is?”

“The barn…”

“Gus, we have discussed this, and…”

“I know, I know, but they are seriously driving me crazy. And it helps you.”

“How so?”

“Mom wants to use it as her studio, what with them barely having any room at all…” I watch him go pale at the thought of Mom sharing any living space! Oh yes, she would start there, but slowly and most assuredly she would encroach; and the one thing he doesn't like is encroachment! “...she has even started to buy canvases and furniture. The furniture is in storage for now. And…”

“She’s what?” He swallows hard then reaches for his phone. I mentally cross my fingers and toes. “Hi, may I speak to Melanie Marcus, it's Brian Kinney. Yes, I’ll hold.” He continues to chew on his pencil like a cheroot. “I shall come to the point, Mel, Lindsay wants to use the barn at Britin as a studio, and I was thinking it might be more suited to Gus. He’s a growing lad, he needs the space, and now that you guys are back in Pittsburgh for good, it would give us some much needed bonding time. I could make it into, say, his junior bachelor pad. I am more than happy for Lindsay to have first choice and...okay, I shall leave that in your more than capable hands. Bye now.” He hangs up, then regards me carefully. “Obviously, you will act surprised when she tells you this.” I nod and start to smile in relief. “But if you are lying about this, I shall burn it to the ground with all your prized possessions in it.”

This time I swallow hard then shake my head. “We may not have much in common, Dad, but the unwillingness to lie is one of them.”

MARCUS-PETERSON RESIDENCE, PITTSBURGH - EARLY EVENING

KITCHEN

MEL

I look around the sumptuous kitchen and sigh. The house is truly beautiful and more than we deserve if truth be told! We've been back for seven months now. Gus and JR are settled and very happy. I thought Lindsay was too, but she’s not. And the reason why is a six foot two auburn haired best friend called Brian who is not behaving the way she hoped!

When I was offered the partnership at Fitz & Williams, she was very encouraging for us to return from Canada after four years; her career was not like mine. In Pittsburgh she was someone and had Bloom as added luster to her, then, glittering career, but in Toronto she had to start again. Yes, Sidney's well respected worldwide in art circles, but that counted for nothing. She was on her own, and having to start from the bottom was so very galling according to her. I remember the many days and nights she would rail against the injustice of it all, when she as the senior curator at Bloom Gallery was offered nothing more than gallery assistant with the salary to match!

She rejected job after job until I did the one thing I never thought I would have to do: I went to Brian and begged him to get her to see sense and just accept a job, any job. He was furious, as she had told him that nobody was hiring, and had manipulated him into sending her support for Gus, I was so blindsided and angry that I gave him his rights back there and then, and what was the first thing he did? He stopped the support payments. It took her almost a year to notice, which made me wonder how much he had sent to her. I remember the conversation like it was yesterday, and oh how much it hurt…

Start of flashback

MARCUS-PETERSON RESIDENCE, CANADA - TWO YEARS AGO

STUDY

“That can't be right!” I hear Lindsay gasp and push open the door the study. She is staring at the screen, so engrossed that she doesn't notice me come in or stand behind her. “What the hell is going on with this account?!”

“What account? We don't bank there.” I ask, and she almost shoots through the ceiling. “So what is that?”

“Mel!” She reaches for the mouse but I beat her to it. “You startled me! Since when do you take to sneaking around?!”

“Not sneaking. I have been in the house for half a hour and in the room for at least five. I’ve answered your question, now answer mine.”

Her head drops. “I didn't want to tell you, as I know how upsetting it will be for you.” She looks up her eyes filled with tears. “But, because I couldn't find a job…”

Would not more like!

“...I had to do something. So, so I went to Lynette and asked, no begged for help. I was surprised when she and her husband agreed…” She starts to cry. “I am so sorry for not telling you, but surely you can see how hard that was for me to do?!”

“Yes, I could see that, but this stops. Call Lynette, thank her for the help, but it is no longer needed because you are going to close the account and put it on our joint one. Then accept the next job that is offered to you.”

“Excuse me, but…”

“You lied to me. Yes, you did, and I am furious. Those are the terms of my forgiveness. Take them or leave.”

“Them. It's take them or leave them.” She sniffs.

“Not in this case it isn't. I shall leave you to your call.” She looks astonished. “But move the money first.”

Twenty minutes later, I listen quietly as she talks to Lynette, or should I say bitches to her about me.

“She was so callous. She made me close the account in front of her and ordered me to accept the next job that I am offered! The nerve! It is so freaking cold everywhere and she won't spring for another car, claiming the art district is walkable! That's as maybe, but I don't want to walk to a job that I am not a senior curator in!”

“What are you going to do?”

“Don't know. What would you say to helping a sister out for a while?”

“As if you had to ask! Never knew why you agreed to the move to that cold front anyway, would a thousand a month do it?”

“That would be…”

“Unnecessary.” I stride in and she gapes at me. “Lynette, I know she has been trying to persuade you to stop helping, and it is very kind of you to insist, but fortuitously this came.” I drop the envelope in her lap. “It’s from Belle and Bow, you had an interview with them a couple of weeks ago, remember?” She nods, still mute with shock. “Well, judging by the size of that envelope, it looks like an offer to me. That’s what I love about Canada, the quaint older world way they do things, none of this emailing. Go on, open it!” Her hands shake as she does as I say and she quickly masks her disappointment. “Oh my God, you got it! Okay, it is not senior, but it is as a curator. You must be thrilled?!”

“Delighted, absolutely delighted!”

“Sorry, Lynette, we have to go and celebrate. Thanks again for all your help.” I cut the call before she can say anything and smile. “I was wrong, they do seem to be in the modern era.”

“Pardon?” She mumbles.

“They will accept your acceptance by email. Why don't you do that now, then I’ll grab the wine?” I see the moment she knows she has lost in her eyes and grin wider. “So you going to do it?”

“Yes. Yes, of course I am, I am just recovering from the shock…”

End of flashback

And for a year everything settled back to normality and then I got the partnership offer. Oh how she haranguing and carped at first, then used Gus and JR being closer to their fathers as another way to persuade me. And that was the clincher, using their fatherly influence as leverage.

Naturally, she returned to Bloom, where she has been playing curator of the manor ever since.

I was saved from living one lie by, of all people, Brian. He demanded his rights back immediately. We had to go through the motions, but Gus was delighted, as was I. The times she had used him as a bargaining chip but I was helpless to say anything, she would wonder why I was championing him all of a sudden. And not once did he threaten to tell Lindsay.

But it was giving the rights to Michael that caused the most trouble! For all his brown eyed, cute boy next door looks, he was like a dog with a bone in the prelude to insemination, insisting on being at every appointment, decorating the nursery, buying toys, clothes, everything the baby would need from his dad. And unlike Brian, he would be with us every step of the way!

It was those words that were the death knell for me. I could not do it, but I could only stall so long, and, Ted being Ted, could see how distressed I was. So, in a way, I did what she did. I accepted my best friend’s offer to be the father...with them both being dark and her looking more like me, everyone believed Michael is the father. But the one thing I could not do was take money from Michael, so I have put it in an account for him, for when he finds out, because secrets have a habit of being revealed. I just hope that the money will salve his wounded ego.

JUSTIN

I ache all over. My mouth tastes and feels terrible, and I can vaguely here the sound of someone calling my name. I open my eye slowly and then close it again. All I care about is that it is not Ethan.

I think it is the next day. I don’t feel so grimy, and slowly I turn my head and look at the figure in the chair. It’s my Mom! I try to speak, but there’s something in my mouth. I can see the alarm button, but can’t move to reach it. I grunt, but she’s asleep or maybe she’s dead! Maybe he killed her?! I can feel my anxiety ratcheting up and then there is the sounds of beeping and the door bursts open.

“Code blue! Code blue!” Someone shouts, and Mom jumps up.

“Justin! Justin! Please, Justin, hang on!”

I try to open my eyes, but I can’t. Then I feel a sharp prick and succumb to darkness once more.

Again, I can hear voices, but this time I am determined to see who it is and where I am. Finally, I open my eyes but everything is blurry and I can't move my hands to rub them.

“How long do you think it has been happening?”

“We don’t know, Aunt Jen. All I know is that Mom got worried when he didn't turn up for his shift without calling.”

I know that voice, it’s Pearl! And she's with my Mom!

“Gnnnnnh!” I growl as loud as I can around whatever is in my mouth.

“What was...oh my god, Justin! Justin honey, are you awake?!” I can feel her hand on my face, but I still can't see her clearly. “Pearl, get some water and a cloth!”

“Mmmm.” I try to speak again.

“Hold on, honey. Let me take the tube out.”

Tube? Why do I have a tube?!  

For what feels like an eternity she painstakingly takes the tube out of my mouth and then helps me to sit up.

“Now rinse, and then you can brush your teeth.”

The feel of the water is like manna from heaven. I take my time savouring its sweetness.

“Put your head back, sweetheart, let me wipe your eyes then I can put in the drops. The doctor said your vision would be affected by the tape.

Tape?!

The feel of the warm cloth again is so good, and when the drops go in I want to cry with relief! In the times I have tried to open them, they were so sore!

“Fully loaded toothbrush, Justin, let me do it.” I feel the bed dip under Pearl’s weight

“My hands...why can't I move them?” I whisper.

“Because he broke them. Ethan broke your hands.” Pearl sniffs. “Now let’s brush, and now that you can speak, you can tell is how long this fucker has been beating you up!”

THREE DAYS LATER

I am so ashamed and have refused to speak to them ever since I woke up. I am pleased that I am no longer in the hospital, and am instead back at my childhood home, and even more relieved that neither Dad nor Molly are here to witness my abject humiliation. I am in the sunroom wearing sunglasses as my eyes are still very sensitive, I look down at my casted hands and start to cry.  

“It is such a terrible shame you can't wipe your eyes without help!” Pearl snaps and pulls off the sunglasses. “At least he didn't hit you anywhere people can see! Let me know when to wipe!” I try to stop crying in the face of her fury and coldness, but I can't. She sighs and sits down next to me. “Let it out, Justin, let it all out.”

An hour later I have finally stopped and she gently wipes my eyes. I sniff so she helps me blow my nose, grimacing at the amount of tissues I go through.

“In the first month, it was fine…” She freezes but says nothing so I continue. “...I would get the occasional bitchy remark, but put that down to frustration that his music wasn't taking him…”

“Out of the gutter where he belonged?!” Pearl bites out and I can't help it, I chuckle a little but then the pain takes my breath away. “Yeah, did your ribs too, but he didn't rape you or anything like that, just kicked you around like a football. Gagged you to keep the noise down, and used a bat on your hands. Broke your left wrist and all the fingers on your right hand.”

I just stare at her.

“The bruises have really faded back. Luckily, you being asleep for so long gave your body time to heal. Sorry, you were saying?”

“He used a baseball bat on me?!” I feel the nausea rushing up my throat. Luckily she gets out of the way.

“Urrrgh! Couldn't you just burst into tears again?!” She squeals. “Aunt Jen, he's chucked up!”

“Be right there!” Mom shouts back.

An hour later I am clean, and for the first time in days seeing everything clearly. “I am sorry I didn't tell you, but I was too ashamed and too...uh, Pearl, where’s your Mom? Heard you say she got worried when I didn’t turn up. Is she okay? Pearl, tell me where Jewel is!”

“Finishing off her community service for destruction of property.” She grimaces then sighs. “Took the hit for me.”

“Took the hit? What hit? Someone explain.”

“When we found you and got you to hospital, for the first two weeks it was...”

“Two weeks?! How long was I in hospital for?!”

“Just under three months.” Mom puts the bucket on my lap. “Like Pearl said, he kicked you like a football and…”

“I get it.” I whisper.

“No you don't get it!” Pearl snaps, and stands in front of me. “Jewel, your best friend and my Mom, told the courts that she took the baseball bat to his car and violin, but I did. She didn't tell them why she did it and the shithead not turning up helped.”

“Where is she?!” I demand.

“Like I said, finishing off her community service in West Virginia. Today is her last day. She should be back…”

“Right now.” I turn to the voice of my dearest friend. “Well you look like shit. Better shit than before but like shit!”

“Jewel!” I try to stand, but Mom holds me down. “Tell me what happened!”

“You were late. You are never late without explanation so I went to the apartment. The lights were off and his dickmobile wasn't there. I called your cell and I could hear it ringing. You don't go anywhere without it, so I got a neighbour to buzz me in.” She pauses and waves Mom away so she can sit next to me. “He left you there. I found you in the bedroom. He beat you and left you, didn't even lock the door.” I start to tear up. “Neighbour said he left half an hour earlier, and…”

“I was leaving him.” I interrupt, but they look sceptical. “He’s been having an affair and I overheard him arranging a fuckdate in the bathroom stall of the restaurant just after our date. I didn't say anything, not wanting to cause a scene…”

“And look where that got you!” Pearl bites out.

“Hey! It's fucking hard to walk away from things! Especially when you are alone and…”

“Have two legs and common fucking sense!” A voice I think I recognise interrupts my justification. I stare at him then Mom. “What reasons did he give after the first time? I was just upset. I won't do it again. How many times did he not do it before this one?!”

“Who the hell are you?! You know nothing about this, about my life with him. I doubt you have ever suffered anything like this!”

“Uh, Justin  this is…”

“Someone is hurting you, you get the fuck out! You drop everything and you leave. And like me, you don't know me or my life, but I was six when he first hit me that I remember. You, once again, had two legs and common sense!”

I blink rapidly, I refuse to let this unfeeling asshole see me cry as the truth of his words hit me, I should've left.

“I am not victim shaming you, don't think that, but it makes me so angry that nobody sees the abuser for what they are. They keep up the veneer of respectability. Makes me sick. Look, I hope you get better and move onto a nicer guy. Jewel, Pearl, it has been an absolute pleasure to know you and I mean it about the job. It's yours for the taking.”

The door shuts quietly behind him and for a few long seconds we just stare at it.

“He is so hot!” Pearl sighs bringing us all back in the room. “And Mom, you are taking that job!”

“What job?” I frown.

“He’s opening a restaurant and needs a sommelier.” Jewel adjusts the pillows behind my back. “We moved down to help Jen look after you. She got you transferred home as soon as you were stable enough.”

“And the answer to that question is no.” Pearl declares. “No he hasn't called, but he did visit, while you were hospitalised in Cali to say that this was your fault. To say that if you hadn't agreed to the show and neglected him in favour of your career, then it would not have happened, which is when I lost my shit!”

“My paintings!” I gasp. “What happened to them?!”

“Nothing.” Mom adjusts the blanket. “Charlotte wouldn't let him in your studio, said he looked deranged. We moved them down with you. You have nothing there anymore.”

We are all startled when my phone rings. I look at the ID and to my relief it is Marius Duke, I nod and Mom puts it on speaker. “Justin?! Justin, is that you? Truly you?!”

“Hello  Marius, yes it is me. Look  the show, I can't…”

“Oh, my boy, my dear boy, I know. I know what happened. As for the show, we will wait for you to get better. I am so pleased to hear your voice! When Jewel told me what happened, I couldn't believe it. But you are in a safe place now. You must heal, and…”

“No, Marius, you don't understand. I am not doing the show. I am never painting again.”

“Oh what is this bullshit now?!” The asshole is back and he looks furious. “So you're going to abandon your talent and let him win?!”

“My tal…”

“Jen, I am sorry but you are just not equipped to deal with this. Pearl, get him packed. Jewel, go help, you have an hour. I will be in the car. And you…” He jabs a finger at me. “...are coming to stay with me. You will get better, and you will showcase your goddamn given talent whether you like it or not!”

This time he slams the door, and the whole house seems to shake. “I am not going!” I bellow even though it hurts my throat.

An hour and twenty minutes later I am sitting in the back of his car glaring at Mom, Jewel and Pearl as they wave goodbye and they grinning.

“Comfy?” He asks.

“This is kidnapping!” I retort, and he has the nerve to laugh. “It is!”

“Tisn’t, as you got in the car willingly. So do you want to know?”

“Know what?”

“My name and why I am doing this?”

“No and yes.” Again with the laughter. “I shall call you asshole. So why, asshole, are you doing this?”

“You will call me Brian or Mr Kinney. As for why, I bought one of your paintings, it is in my office. I am going to show the world how good you are by sponsoring that show of yours.”

“You bought one of my paintings?!” I can't believe it.

“Yep. The one with the face but the smile is not right, what's it called?”

“Eccedentesiast. It means…”

“Someone who hides their pain behind a smile. Good name, and I can tell you are proud, it's a start. Get some sleep, it is another hour at least.”

As I close my eyes, for the first time I don't see Ethan in my dreams.

BRITIN

BRIAN

It has been two weeks since Justin was brought here against his will but he has settled into the back cottage nicely. It affords him privacy when he wants to fall apart, but he's doing that less and less now.

It also helps that the casts were taken off on Friday, and, because of how long he was hospitalised, the bones have healed almost perfectly. He will have weakness in his right hand, and has to do exercises, most likely for the rest of his life to make sure it doesn't get weaker. Much to his annoyance, I make him do it in front of me, just to make sure he is doing them!

I have the place to myself, he's with Jennifer and Jewel. The builders for Gus’s barn have gone, they should be finished in the next week or so. Oh, Lindsay was so pissed when she was told, not asked her opinion as his mother, but told that he was going to be having that space by Mel. But it was when Michael’s nose got put out of joint that mine was too...

Start of flashback

MEL AND LINDSAY'S HOUSE - A MONTH AGO

LOUNGE

“So where is Jenny's room going to be?” Michael asks, sipping his beer.

“Wherever you want to put it, Michael!” I retort. When he smiles widely, I get it. “I mean in your house. She is not getting a room in Britin.”

“What?!” Michael and Lindsay gasp, so he gets up to stand in solidarity with her in the entitled because of my child and our friendship club.

“Gus is my son, so he gets a place here. Jenny is your daughter, so she should have a room at your place, obviously with Ben’s perm...”

“That's not fair!” Lindsay exclaims. “You should treat them both the same!”

“No I shouldn't.” I growl, and go to grab my coat. “Britin is my place and I decide who has space in it!”

“How about we all just calm down?” Ben stands, taking the coat out of reach.

“With all due respect, Ben…” Lindsay begins, and I catch the tick in his jaw. “...I know you mean well, but this is between us as a family, and…”

“There is no us as a family where Jenny or anyone else with the Novotny gene getting a room at Britin is concerned.” Ben interrupts her, causing all jaws to drop. “Brian has worked hard to build up Kinnetic, and Britin is his reward for that hard work. Don't you think it is enough that you can come and go to the loft whenever you please, Michael?”

“Come and go?” I turn to face a now pale Michael. “What is this coming and going? Have you been going to the loft when I'm not there?!”

“Ben!” “Michael!” Michael and Mel snap, but Lindsay says nothing. Then it hits Mel and me, Lindsay knew!

“How long?! How long have you two been playing house in his loft?!” Mel yells.

“We haven't been playing house!” Lindsay protests. “We have been making sure that nothing untoward happens…”

“When was the last time you were there?” I ask quietly.

“For me last week, I had a meeting in town.” Lindsay replies, then nudges Michael, who is glaring at Ben.

“Wednesday. And it's not as if you are using it all the time, you virtually live in Britin now.”

“That's true, but .”

“So what did you hope to achieve by telling him, Ben?” Michael growls. “He clearly doesn't mind!” But Ben is on his phone and talking quietly, Michael clears his throat hard, and after a few minutes Ben hangs up. “Well, answer the question, and who were you talking to?!”

“Hunter…”

“Why are you calling your family now?! We are in the middle of a…”  Michael snarls.

“He should be there in half an hour or so, Brian.” He stands up and hands me my coat. “Fancy a beer?” He nods at the door. “He's going to change the locks for you.” The room goes quiet. “I mind, Michael. I mind that you lied to me. Hope you don't mind me taking the liberty, Brian, but sometimes it is best to strike whilst the iron is hot.”

“Uh, no. Um, thank you, and yes, yes to the beer.” As I follow him out, I stop and turn to my best friends. “That was a gross invasion of my privacy, let's not talk for a while! Mel, I will send you the plans to…”

“My work address, please. And get out, Michael. Lindsay and I need to have yet another talk about her highhandedness!”

WOODY'S - TWENTY MINUTES LATER

“Thanks.” I take the beer and whisky chaser off of him and wait for him to settle down. “So…”

“Surprised you, didn't it?”

“Yeah. So why?”

“I think he’s having an affair and is using your loft to fuck in.” I blink at him in shock, first at what he's said and secondly how calmly he said it. “Not sure how long for, but yeah, think he's cheating on me. I know I just put you on the spot there, but it was…” He starts to tear up. “...why aren't I enough?”

I scoot around to his side and wrap my arm around his shoulders, thankful that we are in the back booth as it gives us some privacy. “Are you sure you're not reading more into this than there is?”

“He went to Cali a couple of weeks back for work he said…” He sighs and takes the napkin to wipe his eyes. “...but he took his passport with him. I saw him pack it with a smile, you know the one?” I nod. “Then a couple of days into the trip, I was walking down the street and Marley called out to me. She was surprised to see me considering Michael and I were in Paris for a week.”

“Christ!” I knock back the chaser and signal for another two. “What did you say to her?”

“That I would be joining him, just had a work meeting I couldn't get out of.” I just can't get my head around this. “I stayed in the house for the rest of the week. When he came back, he was complaining about how miserable the weather was but it was okay as he's working so hard in the new store.”

“Double Christ! What are you going to do?”

“I don't know. Please don't…”

“Not mine to tell, but if you need somewhere, you can stay in the lo...uh no, sorry!”

He chuckles around his beer. “If you redecorated, would take you up on that!”

“Take him up in what?” Brandon smiles as he approaches, then it falters. “Ben, you okay? Um, do you want me to leave…”

“I am fine, Brandon, and stay, we're done talking about this, okay?” Again, I nod, and he drains his beer. “Right then, get some more beers and chasers in, Mr Green; then you can regale us with your exploits on Liberty Avenue!”

End of flashback

I wince at the memory of that night. I had to get Ted to do all the meetings for me, I was so hungover! Ben hasn't mentioned his suspicions since, so I have assumed that he was wrong, they are still together after all.

I smile as the familiar figure of Brandon strides up the drive. I was flattered by his attention when he hit Liberty Avenue, but he is just not my tricking type, and he, unlike some, has accepted that we will never have sex.

We’ve been hanging out together, just shooting the breeze, and me kicking his ass at pool, for almost six months now, much to the annoyance of Michael, who has for once kept away from me. As for Brandon, I don't understand why I like him so much...but there is just something about him that makes me like him. Ben said, when we first met Brandon properly, that he is the quiet to my storm, ever the philosopher is Ben.

“Hey!” I call out when he gets closer, but then I see how awful he looks. “You okay? You look bad.”

“Mom died.” He crumples to the floor and starts to cry. I drop to my knees, bundle him into my arms, and let him express his grief. “She died.” He mumbles.

“I'm sorry. But what hap...”

He jerks out of my arms. “Sorry?! Is that all you to say that you're fucking sorry?!”

“What else do you say to someone whose parent has died?!”

“Died?! I said lied!” He yells back then stares. “It's the eyes and the smile.”

“What is?!” I demand starting to get uncomfortable with his scrutiny. He hands me a piece of paper; I unfold it and start to read...then I reread it. “We need a drink.” I announce standing up and silently we go inside.

KITCHEN

“Why did she tell you?” I pour generously and hand him the vodka. “Brandy won't hit this spot.”

“She didn't have much choice when I found that.” He points at the papers. “It was tucked, ironically, in her bible.” He scrubs his face. “Well, it explains the connection doesn’t it?”

“Yeah.” I keep staring at him.

“Do you remember her?”

“Not really. I don't remember much of my time there to be honest, apart from the beatings and his angry face. Doctors said I blocked most of it out.”

“Hmm.” He fiddles with his glass. “You're taking this very well.”

“It is what it is, let's just deal.” He nods. “Okay, what do we do now?” He drains the glass and takes a step towards me. I pull him into my arms and we both start to cry. I am not sure how long we were standing there just holding each other, but the cough gets our attention. I turn and find Ben in the doorway with a holdall.

“Can I crash here tonight?” He asks, looking shattered. I nod then point at the vodka. “I was right, he's having a affair.”

“Shit!” I groan.

“So what’s up with you two?”

“Who's having an affair? Michael? He is cheating on you?!” Brandon looks furious. “Is he crazy?!”

“Are you absolutely sure?” I sigh.

“Yeah. Kinda caught them at it in the kitchen at his mother's house.”

“His mother's house?!” Brandon grimaces. “Why there?!”

“Dunno. Most probably the easiest place to get to now that you have locked him out of the loft. Was returning the casserole dish and found the door unlocked. They were too busy to notice.” He pours some more vodka in his glass. “He was topping.”

“Michael or the other guy?” I cringe.

“Michael.” He snorts. “But back to my earlier question, what's up with you two?”

“Just found out that he's my brother.” Brandon explains, and I wait for him to say something. “We were adopted together, but when she left her old man she took me with her.” Brandon closes Ben’s mouth for him. “And here we are.”

“Jesus.” Then Ben starts to smile. “Two things: can I tell Michael, and does the loft offer still stand?”

“Why do you want to tell Michael? And yes, it does. It will be redecorated first.” I shiver at the thought of him doing that there. “But what about the house? Thought you owned it.”

“Oh, I do, and he will be gone once he's back from Cali, but me staying in the loft will be much more annoying for him. And as to why I get to tell him, because then I can tell him my little secret.”

“Which is?” Brandon prompts. “And who is it about?”

“Hunter. He’s not my cousin, he’s my son.”

DIAMOND FOOD EMPORIUM - MONDAY MID-MORNING, A WEEK LATER

EMMETT

I love this store, I mean stores! She has them all over the East Coast, and with his help she will have them in the West. I weigh up my choices of Barolo or Nino Negri and decide on both. She has a fine palette and it is a special occasion after all.

“Let me see here, what to get for…”

CRAAAASSSHHH!!!

“Shit! Fucking shit!”

I dash to the next aisle and the sight before me flips my heart, he is as gorgeous as she described him! Setting my basket down, I go to aid my prince in peril!

“Justin! Justin, let me help you!’ I call out as I rush towards him. Confusion suffuses his face. “I know your Mom, the pictures do not do you justice.”

“My…”

“Jennifer Taylor, your Mom who owns this diamond store. I am Emmett.” I grin at him then take the basket and set it on the floor. “No cuts or splash back from the…” I peer at the spreading mess on the floor. “...ooh confit. Beautiful taste too.” He is starting to smile. “So what you cooking, good looking?’

His chuckle sounds like raindrops on leaves. “Ginger chicken congee for a sick, but maintains he is not sick, friend!”

“Oh snap, I think we all have one of those. Am doing the same, but citrus jerk chicken and waffles.”

“Oh that sounds great! He’s got a heavy cold, and after all he’s done, the least I can do is this. My best friend always makes it for me when I am ill.”

“My studly one is denying his illness vehemently! Then again, this is the same guy who described pneumonia as a sniffle!”

“So how do you know my Mom?”

“Work for her on the magazine, I am editor in chief and food critic…”

“The Sabatier!” He gasp whispers then looks around. “Seriously?!”

“It’s pronounced…” I pause and grin again. “...exactly as you have just said it. The amount of times I have gone to correct someone who keeps saying sab-teer...sa-ba-tee-ay...like the knife.” I look up the aisle and see Charles, one of the assistants, making his way down with a mop and a bucket. “But since one is supposed to be anonymous one doesn’t. Now honey, do you mind me calling you honey?” Justin shakes his head with a smile. “Good. Now honey, we are going to go to the poultry counter. I have always said that breasts are so over...over exposed by some, but definitely over used and over priced. You need thighs...bone in thighs. And for congee, you have the wrong rice.”

Twenty minutes later we have the correct, well in my opinion, ingredients and are making our way to the parking lot. “Emmett?” Justin looks up at me, his face creased with worry and something else. “Do you know what happened to me?”

“No. She just said you had come home. And if you wish to tell me, then fine; and if you don’t, also fine.” I pat his hand. “So what led to the crash of the confit?”

“Crash of the...oh, I got a response from someone I didn't think I would hear from again.”

“Did you drive?”

“No, am going to take a cab.”

“Piffle.” I retort, and take his shopping. “I shall drop you off and you can explain the crash of the confit on the way. Now where are you....”

“Dad!” I turn in disbelief as belting towards me, as only she can, is my darling daughter Pearl!

“Pearl!” Justin and I say at the same time then look at each other.

“How do you know her?” I ask as she comes to an astonished halt.

“Jay!” She gasps. “What are you doing with my dad?!”

“Jay?!” I gawk at him. “You are Jay?!”

“Um, yes to her and my best friend….” He trails off as I hold up a finger and pull out my phone, I press my most cherished speed dial. “Hey, Jewel, where are you? I think you have to catch me up some. Why? Because I have both Pearl and Jay in the same spot. Yes, I said Jay, now where are you?!” I usher them into the car. “Say that address again? Um…” I stop and look at Jay...Justin and smile. “Oh my days, I think we have solved a beautiful mystery. We will be an hour!”

“Dad, what’s going on? Jay, you alright?” Pearl nudges him.

“You’re her father? You’re Emmett Honeycutt?” Justin is now gawking and then his face twists in anger. “How could they do that?!”

My heart twists in pain at the memory of their cruelty. “I could say that it was of the time but plain and simply…”

“They were cunts. And those, who are breathing the same air as decent folks, still are.” Pearl finishes as only she can.

GUS

I turn to Hunter and he looks as shocked as me. “She did say Dad, right, and he didn’t correct her, did he?!”

“No. I mean yes she did, and no he didn’t.” Hunter watches Uncle Emmett’s car disappear from view. “Well I’ll be damned, him and dad have more in common than we thought.” He starts to go to his car when I cough loudly and he comes back. “What? We were only coming here to drop her off, we’ve dropped her off so what’s the…”

“She said dad, and, um, so did you.” He blinks at me for a few long seconds, his mouth opens and closes. “Had my suspicions.” I hope this helps, and judging by the relief flooding his face, it does. “We don’t have to…”

“He always wanted to be a dad. Was prepared to be married, do the closet thing, but then his friend offered and here I am.”

“Wow. Do you see your Mom?”

“Every six months. And she kept her promise, left the raising to him. Think he’s done a pretty good job!”

“Pretty good job? I’ll say! I don’t have douchebags friends!” I laugh and nudge him towards the car. “But am curious, why tell Uncle Michael that you two are cousins?”

“Ah, well when they first got together, one of the first things he said was that he didn’t want a kid...again, I mean...dad liked him enough and I wanted him happy, so we agreed to say that I am his cousin. Think Dad hoped he would…”

“Warm to the idea?” I scoff and roll my eyes, he mirrors my action. “For a man who was stalker like in the lead up to Jenny’s birth, the moment she stopped staying in one spot he lost interest!” I snarl, hurting for my, admittedly pain-in-the-ass, little sister...but I would die for her, it’s a shame he wouldn’t.

“As a matter of interest, why did we drop her off here?”

“She needed a lift…” I can feel the blush forming in my toes.

“Uh huh. So you called me to come and pick the pair of you up to drop her all the way over here, which took me over an hour to get to you and then another 30 minutes to get here, from a bus stop, which if she had taken the bus from would’ve got her here in ten minutes?”

“Yes.”

“She is cute though.” I gape at him. “Worry not, I am strictly dickly...not yours I might add!”

“I don’t know whether to be relieved or insulted!”

“Relieved. I top and am still finessing my technique.”

“Just drive!” I order, and we howl with laughter as we head back to his.

COTTAGE AT BRITIN - FOUR HOURS LATER

BACK PORCH

JEWEL

I smile at the rasping orders and the adamant refusal to obey said orders emanating from the bundle of blankets currently occupied on the sofa by Jay and Brian.

“Stop stroking my hair, it’s making me sleepy!” Brian grumbles, but doesn’t actually stop him or lift his head from his lap.

“I still can’t believe it.” Pearl sighs dreamily. “And all the time, it was you two. You just could not make that up.”

“Jewel, can you taste this for me, please?!” I sigh at the officious tone and head to the kitchen.

“Ah now, is not quite perfection is it?” Ems dips his finger in the marinade before holding it against my lips, I taste and again sigh at his perfectionism but he is right, as usual, it is missing something. “What does it need?”

I think for a bit then nod. “Vodka. Just a scooch, then leave it alone. Now come and…”

“Jewel!” Brian’s flu filled tones bark. “Tell him to cook the congee! The stuff that you and Ems are making is for tomorrow! Are you sure you want to come for dinner?!”

“Jay! And yes we’re sure!”

“Alright, I’m coming!”

Two minutes later, a beaming Jay comes in with eyes shining. “Right, where…” His voice wobbles and I know he’s going to cry, but this time, tears of joy. “...you were right, Jewel.”

“And this was in doubt because?” I tease him, happier than I have ever been for him in my life.

“I just can’t believe that Dark Storm and Brian are the same person.” Jay sighs.

“Or that Ben got him that handle.” Ems chuckles as he expertly cuts his chickens up.

“Ben? Who’s Ben?” Jay frowns.

“He is the boyfriend of his best friend, but in the shit friend box for now, Michael. You will meet him tomorrow. So, I am a romantic at heart, tell me again how it started. But before that, is it Jay or Justin that we are sticking with?”

“Am good with Justin.” I smile and wave Justin away from the thighs he is blenching over, his relief is all consuming. “Get on with it, Rudyard.”

His immature raspberry is returned before Ems clears his throat. “Right, sorry, Ems. But there’s no romance, just a great friendship.”

“Uh huh!” Ems and I say at the same time, causing Justin to frown, but I just gesture for him to continue.

“So when I first moved to Cali, and before I met…”

“It.” I bite out causing Ems to frown but say nothing.

“Yes. It. I had no friends, I hadn’t met Jewel or Pearl and was in another cafe. Anyway, I applied for a waiter’s job in the restaurant Jewel worked in and got it. We became very close and it was her who suggested, the website justfriendsnobenefits.com I was reluctant at first and my nerves weren’t settled when I started getting dick pics within minutes of my profile picture being posted…”

“Which is why they said not to post them!” I growl over my shoulder, still annoyed at the rookie mistake of not reading the rules he made.

“Anyway, Jewel tweaked my profile to make me sound like the dullest man on the planet, or so I thought, then an email popped in from Dark Storm to say that there was no way I was this vanilla. I had to be hiding some light under a bushel.”

I snicker and get elbowed by Ems. “What?”

“I, um had to look up bushel.” Justin mutters then waits for Ems to stop chortling.

“You had to look up bushel?! How did you not know what a bushel is?!” Brian chuckles from the doorway, causing Justin to go redder. “I am appalled...and hungry. Is there anything I can eat now, and…”

“Gus! What are you doing here?!”

“I am going to be living here! Well, not here exactly, but what are you doing here?!”

BRIAN

I look over my shoulder at a stunned looking Gus and Jewel joins me at the door. “He's your son?!” She gasps. “But his surname is Marcus-Peterson!”

“Hi, Ms Johnson, Mark said you were down. Here, Dad, Momma sent this.” He gestures at the hamper. “Jewish penicillin. Uncle Emmett! Can you get some bowls out?!”

“How’d you know I was here?” Ems calls back, and I relish the clunk of bowls being put on the counter because I am actually hungry!

“Come on inside and let’s all talk!” I croak, and then I catch Jewel’s small smile...why is she smiling?

“Who’s Mark?” Pearl asks as she helps him with the hamper.

“Butler.” I reply, then my mouth waters. Justin has to go a long way to impress me soup wise. Mel makes the best in the world, not that I would tell her anything like that! “We will join you in a minute. Jewel, what was that smile for?” I lead her further away from the porch, her smile gets bigger.

“What’s the smile for?” I repeat.

“He’s her buddy at school…”

“Yeah…”

“Methinks they both want to be more than that.” She closes my jaw. “And we’re going to let them handle it their way until they ask for help, okay?”

“Okay.” I chuff a laugh. My son has his first crush, okay it’s a girl, but it’s a start. As we head inside to join the others, I look skywards.

Please don’t let her ruin this for him again!

DINING ROOM - HALF AN HOUR LATER

BRIAN

I am trying not to watch the clumsy flirty behaviour of Gus and Pearl. Whilst the practical get on with it side of me wants to say something, remembering how Lindsay was when he just said he thought a boy in school was handsome is holding me back…

Start of flashback

KINNETIC - A YEAR AGO

BRIAN’S OFFICE

BRIAN

I am staring at Lindsay in disbelief and annoyance. “Well?” I demand.

“Well what?” She shifts in her seat.

“Explain why I have a highly pissed off son sleeping on the sofa in the loft.”

“I thought…”

“Yes, he did go to his Aunt Lynnette first, but then she started in on him - his words, not mine - so he escaped; he knew I wouldn't ride his ass over one innocuous comment, again his words.”

She looks out of the window and I can hear her gathering her thoughts to make this sound perfectly reasonable!

“Brian, I merely made friends with another mother at Gus’s school. Her son and Gus are friends…”

“No, they weren't, and now they won't be!” I want to shake her for being such a blundering ass over this. “Lindsay, he doesn't like him that way, neither of them do. Him passing comment on the looks of a boy does not make him gay!”

“Brian, you haven't seen the way he looked at him.” She sighs.

“I didn't look at him!” Gus’s snarl startles her and I smirk.

“I thought you said he was sleeping in the loft?” Lindsay blazes, her face mottled with annoyance and embarrassment.

“He is sleeping in the loft, I never said he was doing that now. He wanted to hear what spin you would put on it.”

“I wasn't putting a spin on it!” She stands and snatches up her coat. “And I have seen the way you look at Steven, I know the look of the first blush of…”

“How? How have you seen me look at him?! Have you been hanging around school?! Besides, his name is Stefan, and he has a girlfriend! And the reason I mentioned him being handsome was because that is my opinion, he is not my object of lust!”

“Gus, cool it.” I order and he puffs an angry breath before plunking on the sofa and folding his arms, then quickly unfolding them when I mouth Jenny at him.

“Thank you, Brian. Well, Gus, I am waiting.”

“What for?” I ask then grimace. “He does not owe you an apology, if that's what you are waiting for. You owe him one.”

“Me?! I did nothing but…”

“Lie and embarrass me.” Gus cuts in and stands up. “Now, because of what you thought and wrongly acted on, everyone thinks that I fancy the guy. And his girlfriend, who plays lacrosse, warned me off! Did I mention that she plays lacrosse?!” I bite back my laughter at the furious glance from Gus. “How could you tell his mother that I thought her son was hot?!”

“You told his mother that?” I glare at Lindsay, who goes redder.

“And you’re going to cancel this date you’ve set up!”

“Date? What date? With who?” I demand.

“It is not a date in that sense, it’s just two friends getting acquainted!” She blusters. “And I will not be doing that. Maryanna seems a very nice woman, she and her family have quite the social standing.”

“Sally-Anna. Her name is Sally-Anna.” Gus sighs. “Mom, can you just leave them alone?”

“You will not dictate who I am friends with!” Lindsay spits, and I can see this escalating into a full scale row, which I would rather not have in my office.

“And you will not dictate who I have a crush on, especially when I don’t have a crush!” He bites back. “Dad, I will see you at the loft tonight.”

“Okay, Sonny…” But he storms out before I can finish.

“He’s getting mouthier these days.” She grumbles and sits back down. “And you, like Mel, didn’t back me up!”

“Lindsay, he is fifteen, not five. You tried to set him up with someone he’s not interested in, that’s not mouthy that’s rightfully pissed.”

“I didn’t try and set him up!”

“You told the kid’s mother that Gus thinks her son is hot! Not handsome, but hot!”

“Fine! Cast me as the villain when all I want is for Gus to be happy and in love…”

“He’s fifteen, he has plenty of time for that! Now, speaking of time, I am done talking about this. And if you want back into his good books, cancel your play date with Sally-Anna!”

End of flashback

“So you going to tell us who’s who?” Jewel asks as she pours the wine. “Just their names, don’t give me any other deets. Want to form our own opinions.”

“I will chat, you rest your voice.” Ems orders, and I happily obey.

An hour later, I am heading up to bed, having told them that I am tired because of the amount of coughing I have been doing and nothing to do with the hair stroking or congee and chicken soup that is currently soothing my soul!

BEN AND MICHAEL’S HOUSE - NEXT DAY

BEDROOM

MICHAEL

I watch for Ben from the window and can’t understand his grumpy mood lately. He says that he’s just tired, but if he’s so tired, why did he going for a run before we go to Britin? That makes no sense.

I turn my phone in my hand willing it to ring. I haven’t heard from him in a few days, he’s sulking, because I had to work most of the time I was in Cali. You’d think he would appreciate the chances I am taking, especially when he just dropped by unannounced. His mood was not improved when I couldn’t take him to the loft. I am still mad at Ben for blurting that out, although the fact that we’ve all been invited for dinner means, to my mind, that Brian’s calmed down and realised how much he has overreacted. Like I said, he’s not using it as much, if at all! But as well as hearing his voice to say that we are fine, we have something else to discuss.

“Oh you have got to be kidding me?!” I grumble as my phone rings just as Ben comes back in. Sighing, I send it to voicemail and join Ben in being grumpy!

BRITIN - TWO HOURS LATER

LOUNGE

BRIAN

I hate to admit it, but I do feel so much better. I had such a good night’s sleep, which has nothing to do with the hair stroking of a certain nubile blonde, who...nubile, why am I thinking of him as nubile?! Get a grip Kinney, we are friends, definitely just friends! He was going to join us for lunch, but after the conversation I had with Ben this morning, he thought it best not to. He, Jewel and Pearl are going to have lunch with Ems instead.

I look up as I hear the crunch of gravel. Mel and Lindsay have arrived, and, judging by the tension in their faces, they’re still not quite at peace with each other.

“Good afternoon, Mel, Ms Peterson, Brian is in the lounge.” I hear Mark telling them as he lets them in.

“Mark, why do you call her Ms Peterson?” I ask as I come into the hallway looking hopeful.

“I shall put it in the kitchen.” Mel laughs when my eyes light up at the sight of the hamper.

“It’s okay, Mel, I can take it.” Mark smiles at her. “Because that’s how I’ve been told to…”

“No, that shit stops. She’s not being treated like a ladyship by proxy, just call her Lindsay from now on, okay?”

“Okay, Brian.” Mark smirks just a little and heads to the kitchen.

“Did you have to do that?” Lindsay pouts.

“Yes.” I retort and then smile as the familiar ping of Brandon’s tone chimes out and quickly read his text. “Ah. Brandon has gotten Ben and they are on their way.” I turn and walk back to the lounge, I wave the bottle of red from last night at them.

“I’m driving, so nothing for me. Mel, will you join me in the sobriety…”

“No, make mine a large one!” Mel exclaims,  flopping onto the sofa, I hand it to her and then sit opposite them, the only sound is of the keys to the loft jangling in my pocket.

“Did you say Brandon is bringing Ben? Why?” Lindsay frowns.

“Just said he’s bringing him. Debs and Carl are coming with Michael.”

“Are those the new…”

“Lindsay.” Mel warns, and I sip my wine. “Don’t push luck you don’t have where the loft is concerned.”

“Brian and I have…”

“We have not discussed it, because I wanted you and Michael to hear what I have to say at the same time so I don’t have to repeat it. And in front of Mel so I have a witness.”

“Really, Brian, don't you think this sulking has gone on long enough?” Lindsay grouses.

“If you thought there wouldn't be a problem, why didn't you ask if you could use the loft?” Mel counters. “You still haven't said why you didn't do that.”

“I didn't think…”

“Stop speaking, because doing so keeps you here.” Mel orders, and we both look surprised.

“Melanie! How dare you be…”

“Hello! Where is everyone?!” Debs calls out as she comes in, Lindsay's expression is a cross between confused and annoyed.

“Lounge! Put the pot roast in the kitchen first!”

“Okay, sweetheart!”

I start the countdown as the front door is slammed shut and Michael comes in.

“Hi all. Do you know where Ben is and how long has Ma had a key to this place?”

“Ben is coming with Brandon.” I reply. “Where's Carl?”

“Why is Brandon coming? When did you say Ma got a key again?”

“In about ten minutes and I didn't. Hey, Debs, you are looking well. Where's Carl?”

“Hey, you handsome thing!” Debs grins then pauses in her approach. “Kitchen, just putting the roast in. I take it you are no longer contagious? You sound like the Love Walrus!”

“Love Walrus? Who the hell is that?!” I demand as I open my arms to accept the crushing hug she will give me. “Ah, a Debbie special, a roast and a hug! Bliss!”

“The late, great, and sonorous Barry White. Now who needs a top up?” Carl asks as he comes in. “Mark shooed me out. Said something about wanting to get it on the table unnibbled. Have no idea what he is talking about.” He grins as he heads to the cabinet. “Top ups? And red or white for you honey?”

“Red please.” Debs gets herself comfortable. “Now did I hear you say Brandon is bringing Ben? You three have been spending a lot of time together I notice.”

“A lot of time, what does that mean?” Michael demands. “And when did you get a key, Ma?”

“Michael, if you haven't had the question answered on the third attempt by two different people, take the hint and stop asking!” Mel clips out, then looks at Lindsay’s still peevish expression. “Oh for goodness sake! May I, Brian?”

“Yes, you may.” I raise my glass to her.

“Debs has had keys ever since the first piece of furniture was put in.”

“What?!” Lindsay gasps. “But why?!”

“Needed someone to oversee the move, and…”

“I would've done that for you!”

“So would I!” Michael exclaims.

“But Debs doesn’t feel the need to nest build like you two do!” I bite back.

“Nest build?! What does…” He begins, then gapes as Brandon and Ben walk in, Brandon has a holdall with him, which causes me to frown but not question it out loud. “What is…which one of them has a key?!”

“Just putting this away. Won't be long.” Brandon calls out as he heads upstairs.

“Hey, Ben honey. You are looking well. Where have you been, you okay?” Debs opens her arms and he smiles before bending down to bestow a kiss and get a hug.

“Yeah, had a few things to do that kept me preoccupied, but now I am feeling like celebrating.” Ben hugs Carl. “Debs, do I smell pot roast?”

“Brian insisted.” Carl chuckles, no doubt remembering my flu filled whining that I needed nourishment, which I repeated to Mel, hence more chicken soup with Matzo balls.

“Celebrating what?” Mel asks.

Ben just smiles and helps himself to wine. “Red or white, Brandon?” He asks as he comes in.

“What are you drinking, Bri?”

“Since when do you call him Bri, Brandon?” Michael bridles. “And what are you celebrating, Ben? At least you are in a better mood, I could not get a smile out of him for the last few days. I would like a glass of…”

“I was doing some research for Brian and Brandon as they were so busy with work and being ill. The pot roast insistence suggests you have acknowledged this.”

“Yes, I was ill, with flu, proper flu not man-flu, I hasten to add.” I try to glare the smirk off of Brandon’s face but he just shrugs. “I had pills and everything!” I protest, and he snickers. “Oh, shut up, you wait till you’re sick, see how sympathetic I am!”

“I will get it myself then!” Michael huffs, then marches to the cabinet. “Lindsay, do you want anything?”

“Actually yes, I will have a small…”

“You are driving, Lindz.” Mel reminds her, taking a huge and noisy slurp of her wine.

“Very mature, Mel!” She snaps, before joining Michael by the cabinet. “I shall have a small glass of the merlot, please, Michael...no, Michael, it’s the red one.”

I smack Brandon in the arm when he laughs.

“So what were you researching?” Carl smiles.

“Family history. Turns out that the immediate bond between Brian and Brandon is because they are brothers.” I have never heard the room go so quiet. I nod at Ben to continue and find reassurance in Brandon squeezing my hand.

“Jesus.” Debs is the first to speak. “How long have you known?”

“Not very long, less than two weeks.” I reply.

“So you can rest the green beast that resides in your soul, Michael…” Ben taunts him. “...they aren't ever going to screw each other since Brian is neither into older guys or incest.”

“Ben!” Michael explodes going red.

“What? You've done nothing but bitch about their closeness and speculate about how many times and what positions…”

“I have not!” Michael almost screams.

“Yeah you have, but moving on.” Ben takes a sip of wine. “So Brandon is older than Brian by eight minutes and thirty three seconds.”

“I was doing my hair, I had to make the perfect entrance after all.” I quip, and Ben just shakes his head.

He stakes another sip of wine and his eyes shine. “So, Debs, Carl, how you feeling?”

My heart is pounding and Brandon’s hand squeezes tighter.

“Stunned.” Carl answers. “It is one hell of a shock, but I am glad you two found each other.”

“Four. You four found each other.” Ben grins. “And it is all down to you, Michael.”

“Me…”

“What do you mean four?” Debs frowns.

“It is a well known fact, and a source of pride for you that you did the best thing for your babies, right? And everyone knows that you, to your mind, have three children: the twins you gave up when you were fifteen and Michael, right?”

“Uh, yes.” She answers slowly.

“And everyone, well mostly, was delighted when you and Carl reconnected after all those years, right?”

“Ben…” Mel’s voice is filled with tears. “...are you saying…”

“Yep.” Ben sniffs then nods at Brandon and I. “You raised at least one of them, a little late but you raised him.”

“Oh my god.” Lindsay whispers.

We are all looking at Debs and Carl as realisation slowly begins to dawn. First they look at each other and then us.

“Our boys?” She whispers.

“Yeah.” Ben wipes his eyes. “They're yours.”

“Holy Christ!” Carl weeps. “Come here, you two!”

Twenty minutes later, we’ve stopped crying but neither Debs nor Carl, I mean Mom and Dad, have let go of our hands. Michael is just sitting there stunned, his wine untouched.

“How does it feel?” Ben asks.

“Brilliant, astonishing but fucking brilliant.” Mom kisses his forehead. “I don’t know…yes I do! We have to throw a party!”

“We will and I shall sort it, but I didn't mean you, Debs, I mean you, Michael.”

“Me? I am…”

“How does it feel to know that your hopes of a romance with Brian are forever dashed, and Brandon doesn’t like you...he said that you reminded him of an annoying little brother and now that’s true, well half brother.”

“Ben! What the hell is wrong with you?!” Michael explodes. “You have been a carping dickhead for days now!”

“You are cheating on me.” He stretches for his wine. “Don’t deny it. I have seen you and smelt you. How was Paris?”

“Ben, it was a one off mistake. I…uh, Paris?”

“Yes, you took him to Paris….for a week. That’s not a mistake, but save your apology and excuses because I lied too.”

MICHAEL

I reach shakily for my glass. He knows, and he’s lied about something. I swallow half the wine down and brace myself. So it was him.

“Well, partly lied. He is family, but he’s my son, not my cousin.” Ben looks...well, he looks relieved! As if the weight of the world is off his shoulders.

“Hun...Hunter is your son?!”

“And that’s the only thing I have lied to you about.” He frowns at me. “What did you think I was going to say?”

Well I kinda hoped you were going to say that you were the one that gave me anal warts!

Ginger chicken congee:

https://www.chowhound.com/recipes/ginger-chicken-jook-rice-porridge-29184

Korean fried chicken: https://mykoreankitchen.com/korean-fried-chicken/

BEN

“Michael, what did you think he was going to say?!” Mel growls. “How could you cheat on him? How long has it been going on? Oh God, please don't say you've been using the loft for your assignations?!”

He shifts guiltily but says nothing.

“You are going to be gone. He will give you time to pack, but you will be gone.” I tell him coldly. “And Brandon will help.”

“Brandon? Help? Help who?” Lindsay, for some reason, has an attitude with me over this!

“Help Hunter in assisting Michael to leave!” I bite back. “Did you know, as a matter of interest? I mean, you both used the loft, maybe you caught them there one day?”

“No, of course not! I am just as shocked by everything as you all are!” She objects, and then glares when Mel scoffs. “I didn’t! Tell them, Michael!”

“She’s telling the truth…”

“The truth? From you?! That’s a laugh!” Brandon fumes. “So after dinner, I will be dropping you off.”

“Now just a second, you don’t get to order me around!”

“You seem to have forgotten that I am your older brother, and that gives me butt kicking rights! And after the way you treated Ben and Hunter, I have no problem exercising them!”

Carl clears his throat, but Brandon doesn’t step back from towering over Michael, who is pressed back into the seat.

“Let’s all calm down a bit shall we?” Brian orders, and tugs the back of Brandon’s jeans. Two things happen then: one, he steps back; and, two, I find that so sweet.

“Seems the storm needs the quiet like the quiet needs the storm.” I drawl, and both Brandon and Brian smile. “But back to matter in hand; if it wasn't for the fact that you five are family, I would ask Brandon to take your ass out of here now. You have one more chance to partially redeem yourself; what were you thinking?!”

He swallows then drags his hand down his face. “If you were cheat...”

“OH COME ON!” Brandon explodes, and again Brian pulls him back a bit further.

“Okay! I have anal warts, and thought you gave them to me because of your pissy mood!”

“You cunt!” Mel explodes. “You miserable, inexcusable dickhead of a wanker! Get out! Get out of my sight!”

BRIAN

“Mel, you don’t get to do that. This is…” I begin

“Thanks, Brian, I knew you would understand.” Michael grimaces at Mel. “A man of your promiscuity knows the craving for getting your needs met, and that's all I did; got them met.”

“There is a difference between what you did and what Brian did!” Mel barks out.

“Sex is sex! That's what Brian says, and all I did was have sex!”

“And take him on holiday for a week in Paris!” I bellow, Michael looks stunned. “Ben had his suspicions for a while and talked to me about it. He found out about Paris when you went on your first trip to Cali.”

“Michael, just go to a hotel...no, go to the house, we will talk about this when we are all calmer.” Debs orders quietly. “Brandon, you are taking him nowhere. I mean it, go to the house and…” She stops as Brandon strides out with a smile then calls Mark. They confer for a few seconds, then he comes back in. “...and that was about?”

“You, De...Mom. We knew you would say that. Oh, thanks, Mark.” He beams at him when he drops the holdall at his feet. “So this is yours, bro. Ben packed for you after you stropped off this morning because he went to see Jenny.”

“You said you were going jogging!”

“Seems that the combination of cheating and anal warts makes you deaf!” I snarl, then reach into my pocket to pull out the keys. “Here.” I hold them out, and predictably Michael reaches for them. “Ben, the loft is yours for as long as you need it.”

“Ben?!” Lindsay gasps. “But Michael has been your best friend...and is your brother!”

“Who cheated on his boyfriend who is a very good friend of mine...no ours! And he has been more of a father to Jenny these days than my so called best friend and little brother!” I feel Brandon’s hand on my chest, stopping me from moving to give Michael a Debs head slap. “It has been redecorated and all evidence of my past and your fucking have been obliterated! Now get out!”

“If Michael goes then Mel and I go too! And as for seeing Jenny any further, that will have to be rethought, Ben. Everyone seems to have forgotten that Ben lied as well!”

“He told him that Hunter was his cousin, not his son! There is a vast difference between that and cheating; and...just in case it slipped your notice...getting anal warts!” I yell.

LINDSAY

“Lindsay! I am not leaving. you want to go with Michael, then you go. And there is no way in hell you are stopping Ben or Hunter from seeing Jenny! Like Brian said, he’s been more of a father figure than Michael ever could be. I can count on one hand the times he has been to see her and not within ten minutes been on his phone bidding on something. Or now we know what we know, texting his fuck buddy!”

“Sorry, I spoke out of turn. I am just so shocked. Michael, you need to leave, do you have cab fare?”

“Lindsay, I thought you were on my side. Brian has been mellowing out for a while…”

“Mellowing for a while?!” Brian snorts. “I am not! I am just being much more discerning! Besides, Kinnetic is hugely busy; I don't have the time or energy to fuck around.”

“Whatever!” Michael snaps and snatches up his holdall. “I am going back to where I live, and…” Ben starts to chuckle “...what now?!”

“Hunter has changed the locks. Looks like you will be sleeping with Captain Astro all by your widdle self!”

“You know, Ben, if you had been a whole lot less Zen and thought of me and my needs more, then I would not have found someone younger and interested in the things I like! Yeah, you look hot, but you being calm all the time got very boring! You bored me and I feel sorry for the next guy that you hitch your wagon to!” He turns to look at Debs. “Thanks for putting me up, Ma, see you later.”

“I will see you out.” Mark appears at the doorway, and, with a curt nod, Michael is gone. Mark comes back with a look of what? Delight? “Dinner will be another hour, do you need me for anything else?”

“No, honey, you go.” Debs smiles, and with wave he too is gone. “More wine, people!”

I feel a tightness in my chest as the full magnitude of what Michael has done hits me. I feel scared and sickened. I take a few breaths and feel my heart rate start to slow down. The first thing I need to do when I get some time alone is speak to Lynette, but how do I explain to her that the condoms I have been collecting aren't from Brian after all?! I just hope and pray she has just had them frozen as we agreed until I had spoken to Brian. I know she is getting impatient and hope she has not followed through with her threat to proceed with the surrogate she told me about who has verbally agreed to carry the child!

BRANDON

“So I take it that Brian knows?” I ask Mom and Dad and they look puzzled. “How you two go back together again?”

“Oh!” Ben chuckles. “Well that was the greatest reunification since and in Germany, bittersweet in a way.”

“Why?” I hand Mom a tissue as she starts to tear up. “What’s wrong?”

“Your Uncle Vic died soon afterwards. Oh, he would’ve loved to have met you. It was because of him that Carl and I got back together.” She blows her nose. “When he found out he was sick, he said that he wanted to go knowing that I was happy with the man that made me the happiest, so he set about tracking Carl down. It took a good few years; said he had nothing better to do.” She tears up again and Brian rubs her back. “Carry on, Carl.”

“Okay. So after we let you boys go, we were devastated, but it was the best course of action…” He frowns. “...did you get the letters?”

“What letters? “ We ask at the same time.

“We gave the adoption agency letters for you that explain.” Dad now gets teary eyed. “You never got them?”

“Nope.” I reply, and Brian shakes his head sadly. “What did they say?”

“As I said, we explained why we did it, where we were from and our names.”

“Maybe if they had given it to us I would’ve put two and two together?” Brian sighs.

“Maybe, but it’s together now.” Ben nudges him gently.

“So how’d he find you? Uncle Vic, I mean.”

“The strain of it all got too much. We were young and it just crippled us. We split up; I applied for the army and got in immediately. Took the first posting I could, to get away from the pain of losing the three of you.”

“And where was that?”

“Germany. I hadn’t seen her for almost 30 years, but the moment I did, everything came flooding back and that was it. I got transferred back to the US and have been with her ever since. I helped her to raise Michael. Her having another son didn’t bother me. It’s how he’s turned out, because of his selfishness, that’s what bothers me!”

“Speaking of Michael, what are we going to do about this?” Lindsay interrupts. “We have to discuss this as a family surely?”

“Yes. Yes we do. Look, Debs, call him. Call everyone and we will meet for dinner Friday night. Close the diner so that we can have a proper chat. Agreed?” Dad asks, and Mom just nods. “Right, enough of this, let’s eat. We have some serious celebrating to do!”

EMMETT’S HOUSE - NEXT MORNING

KITCHEN

EMMETT

I put the phone down crossly and go to pick it up again but change my mind. No, I will have plenty to say to Michael Charles Novotny when I see him later. An appalling way to behave; then have the nerve to try and blame Ben for him being pissy about it.

“What’s with the face?” Jewel ambles in with a smile.

“Oh, other family troubles.” I sigh, then smile. “Actually, what are you and Pearl doing tomorrow evening? Are you available for dinner? Let’s get the meet and greet over and done with.”

“Yeah, we can be there. How much are we telling?” Jewel loops her arms over my neck, our faces level, then nuzzles my nose, instantly taking me back to our childhood, when this is one of the things that our families found so ugly about us.

“As much as you wish.” I nuzzle her back and hold out my arm to a sighing-with-happiness Pearl, who joins us in our embrace.

“Then I shall tell all. I can’t wait to see their faces when I tell them I knocked up an Amazonian when I was 15!”

BRITIN - THREE HOURS LATER

JUSTIN’S COTTAGE

BRIAN

Between Mark and I, we managed to bust the front door down when we heard the screaming. We were doing our usual walk around when it started. Mark is running back to the house to call Jennifer. I had no idea Justin was back. I look around the lounge, but the screams are coming from the bedroom.

“No! Stop! Please no!” Justin screams, and I run inside. He is in the throes of a nightmare, judging by the thrashing and attempts to defend himself.

“JUSTIN! JUSTIN! WAKE UP!” I bellow, not sure that this is going to help.

“Help! Help me, please!” Justin screams as I dash to his side. Taking a chance,  I grab a flailing arm and pin it to the bed, but his other hand catches me such a hard thwack across my face that has my eyes watering, but I manage to grab it and hold it down. “Get the fuck off me, you bastard!” He snarls.

“It’s Brian! Wake up!” Mindful of his wrists, I move my grip to his biceps and his eyes fly open. “That’s it! Look at me! See Brian! See Dark Storm!” I don't know why I said that or where it came from, but immediately he goes still and his eyes begin to focus.

“Brian!!” Mark yells.

“Bedroom!” I shout back as quietly as I can.

“What are you doing?!” He demands, then quickly shoves me off the bed. “Never ever attempt to wake someone up above when they are having a nightmare, they will…” He looks at my face. “...yeah, lash out.”

“Did you manage to get hold of Jennifer?” I rub my cheek and feel it beginning to swell. “I will put ice on it in a second. Jennifer?”

“Left a message. I think…”

“What are you two doing in my room?” Justin sits up rubbing his eyes. He frowns and looks around. “Yep, definitely my room. You promised you wouldn't enter uninvited. You promised.”

Mark and I look at him and then each other. “Justin? Do you know what happened just now?”

“You came into my room uninvited…” He shivers slightly. “...did you leave the front door open? If so, could you close it and be on the other side of…”

“Justin, you had a nightmare and was screaming the place down, begging for help.” I tell him.

“I did not and was not!” He denies fiercely. “Now leave!”

I am stopped in my rebuttal and refusal by Mark’s phone ringing. “Jennifer…”

“You called my Mother?!” He exclaims. “What on earth…”

“Be quiet, Justin, I am trying to listen!” Mark orders. Although he glares and folds his arms, he does remain quiet. “Okay, yeah he did. Right, when can we expect her? An hour? Alright. Thanks, Jennifer.” He puts his phone in his pocket and there is a few beats of silence. “She's sending Jewel. She will be an hour. You need to shower, Justin.”

BRIAN'S MOVIE ROOM - NINETY MINUTES LATER

JUSTIN

“This!” I splutter, gesturing angrily at the screen and pacing. “This is a heinous invasion of my privacy! How could you do that to me?!” I scream at Jewel, stopping in front of her.

“What was the first thing you did when they told you?!” She shouts back with tears in her eyes and my heart starts to pound. “You denied it, Justin! And you’ve been like this on and off for months! When you wake up, it's as if nothing has happened.” She finishes quietly. “We had to do something, we needed proof.”

I stare at the floor and feel the tears clogging my throat. “It's too painful.” I whisper. “The wounds have healed, but the...the emotional and mental pain is too much, I can't think about it. It takes me right back there, and it's like I’m…”

“Being attacked all over again.” Brian interjects gently and I nod. “You have a mean right hook.” He laughs and rubs his cheek.

“So what are you going to do, Justin?” Mark asks. “I mean, you’ve done the hardest part, admitted you are suffering still. Maybe…”

“Don't say therapy.” Jewel sighs. “We had to have him taken against his will and watched by a gorgeous tyrant to get him to do his physical exercises.”

“Jewel!” I go puce with embarrassment.

“Whoops, sorry. But it is what you said...twice, in one day.”

“Oh, that's nothing, Brian calls him a nugget of nubility.” Mark declares.

Neither Brian nor I look at each other and the quiet stretches on.

“Now that's out there.” Jewel smirks. “Back to the matter in hand. What are you going to do?” She gently pushes me to sit down. “You can't keep getting blindsided by a nightmare every time. You will run yourself into the ground.”

“Come to an appointment with me.” Brian suggests, and whilst that stuns me he just shrugs. “Not many people know. Obviously. I’ve been going for about a year now.”

“For what?” I gasp out, then look mortified. “Sorry! I shouldn't have intruded!”

“It's okay. Child abuse at the hands and sometimes feet of my former foster dad.”

“Christ.” Jewel breathes. “Sorry to hear that.”

“Apology not needed, but it's nice to have it...them.” He smiles at us and I relax a bit more. “So will you come? Just for one. You just have to try it. It's got to be better than that!” He points at the frozen image on screen still.

I finally look at it properly and see what they saw, me terrified; fighting for my life and my sanity. “Okay, I will go.”

“And go there correct. Don't pitch up and say nothing!” Jewel orders firmly.

“I will, I promise.” I tear my eyes off the screen then take the remote and switch it off. “Right, first things first. What is the name of your doctor, Brian? I’d like to do some research.”

“Chanders. Dr Daphne Chanders.” He replies. “She is the best in the business.”

“I shall tell her you said that.” Mark remarks dryly.

“Tell her?” I look across at Jewel who looks equally puzzled.

“She's my wife.” Mark beams proudly then it falters. “I used to hear Brian in his sleep and was so worried that I talked to her about it. She got herself invited to dinner and diagnosed childhood traumatic stress in seconds.

“I almost fired you for that.” Brian tells him.

“I know. But if I may make one more suggestion?” He clears his throat. “Maybe Justin should move to the West Wing. It was only by chance that we heard you.”

I gulp. Live in the same house as Brian?! I couldn't, could I?!

MARKO'S BAR, OFF LIBERTY AVENUE - LATE EVENING

MICHAEL

I hang up feeling much better, much freer. I was pissed when I found out about Hunter being Ben's son, and even more pissed that it wasn't Ben that gave me the warts. I would've demanded a hell of apology for that, I wouldn't have dumped him, as I loved that house. I think I might have caught it during the brief gap between me and Graham and my current hottie. Oh, he is gorgeous, talented, and younger than me, so I can still pull the twinks. He is also very demanding of my time, but that is more than Ben was! And the sex...getting to top is awesome! Again, something Ben refused to let me do.

I look around the bar and sigh. I can't wait for Woody's to open up again. Smirking, I finish off my drink and head to Babylon, whistling. Yeah, Brian and Brandon, well not so much him, being twins and my brothers is still shocking to me. I had always known about her having two older boys, but for it to be them!

I look at the very long queue outside and decide to use my familial connections and head to the doors, ignoring the grumbles.

“Where's Kinney?” Fred, the regular doorman, demands as he stops me from entering.

“No idea. Now excuse me, I have to dance!” I frown at him when he continues to impede my progress. “What were you doing?! I am Brian's best friend and…little brother. I think he will be most…”

“Pissed that you are spreading personal information about him without his permission.” Brandon drawls as he comes up behind me. “Yes, I think he will be.”

I turn to face him, my dislike of him intensifying. “I have always gotten in with Brian, why should that change in light of these developments, brother dear?” I enjoy the sounds of shocked murmuring.

He doesn't bat an eyelid. “Brian is not here to get in with, and you sure as hell aren't coming in with us...will you hurry up?!” He calls over his shoulder, my jaw drops as Ben strides down the street. “Have a message from Brian…” He looks at Fred. “...Michael doesn't get in for free, and he also has to queue like the rest if he doesn't have one of his big brothers with him.” Fred nods and then points to the back of the line. “See you in there, Warty Boy!” Brandon calls out over his shoulder as he saunters in.

“How dare you call me that?!” I ball my fists in fury and humiliation.

“How dare you catch them in the first place?!” Ben sneers before following him in.

“Uh, you might as well go home. Nobody is going to go near you until that clears up!” Fred declares.

Fuming, I turn on my heel and stride back to Mako’s, hoping that I can get there before the gossip does! Ten minutes later, I am hailing a cab to go back to Ma’s. I can walk fast, but texting is quicker!

TED'S CONDO - FRIDAY MORNING

KITCHEN

JENNY

“I am serious!” I assert to Uncle Ted, but he merely shrugs and goes back to blitzing my smoothie. “I don't get your reticence over this.” I pout.

“Newsflash, I don't have a type, I just like the person.” He says over his shoulder.

“Everyone has a type, isn't that a rule?” I demand but he just snickers without turning around. “So let's rule some folks out; would you go for someone like Uncle Ben or Uncle Brian?”

“No, neither of them! I don't know…”

“Why not the two of them?” I frown. “Okay, maybe not Uncle Brian, but definitely Uncle Ben. You’d look cute together, he’d be very caring and look after you…”

“I've been looking after myself for years now, and…”

“Are rattling around this place and are much too thin!” I declare, then sigh. “It is time. Go out there and paddle, please, just dip a toe in the dating pool.”

“Okay, my pinky toe, how about I dip that?”

“Careful you don't get a chill.” I tease, then grin at his eye roll as he puts down my smoothie.

“You are so like your Mother.” He remarks dryly.

“And a bit like my dad.” I reply quietly...and hold my breath, I have been wanting to ask him about my so-called father for years. “So, your theories?”

“On what?” He questions carefully, much like Mom does when he crops up in conversation.

“Why he stopped being my dad like Uncle Brian is to Gus and Uncle Ben is to me? Oh, that reminds me, who is my sitter tonight?”

“Nobody, you are coming too.” He replies shaking his head. “Carl insisted.”

“Do you know anything about what happened? Hunter knows but not even best buddy rights would make him tell Gus.”

“Like I said, Carl insisted and wants to tell everyone at once.”

“So why then? Why is he no longer being the dad he insisted on being?”

“I don't think he appreciated how much work goes into nurturing a young person to adulthood.”

“Especially when he's barely out of his teens mentally.” I complain, but instead of censure, like I get from the Moms, he chuckles. “I wish sometimes he wasn't so at least I could stop having to try.”

TED

My heart aches for her. I remember vividly how dogged Michael was to be involved. How much he wanted to show everyone how he was the daddy much more than Brian. The amount of times Mel would come and hide at the condo just so that she could breathe, and that was before her pregnancy was confirmed. Then he ratcheted it up. He had to be at every appointment, had to be the birthing partner, not Lindsay, who took that very well, while I stood on the sidelines and prayed to every god I could think of that all would be okay.

And for a few years it was, it was great, I had it compartmentalised that he was the dad and I did a favour for a friend. He was a great dad, always there for her more than Brian was for Gus, according to him, but then it all changed…

Start of flashback

DINER - EIGHTEEN MONTHS AGO

TED

I frown as Michael comes to the booth and sits down, his expression mutinous.

“Thought you were supposed to be with Jenny?”

“I was, but she wanted to go with Gus, her Uncle Brian and Ben to the museum.”

“And?”

“The museum is boring!” He snaps as he puts his bag on the table. “I wanted to go the roller park; you know, do something fun…”

“So why not do both?”

“As I just said, the museum is boring. It's a brilliant sunny day, why would you want to be stuck indoors?!”

“Michael, you are spending time with her. Stop making a competition out of this between you and Brian.” I rebuke him.

“I am not making it a competition!” He protests then sighs. “Ever since they came back and he got his rights, which I still don't understand why he asked for that, it’s like he is making up for lost time. And now that he has all of this money he's lording it over me.”

“He’s not and you know that. The plain and simple truth of the matter, Michael, is that, whilst they were in Canada, your visits were seen as treats and special occasions, but now they are here you have to make an effort to be involved all the time. Like you insisted upon at the outset, you remember that?”

“What's got your dick in a knot?” He looks surprised at my tone. But to be honest this has been a long time coming.  Any time Jenny doesn't want to do want he wants he sulks until she caves or suddenly something has come up.

“She is your daughter, not a toy that you can play with as, when, and how you wish. And it is also jealousy...let me finish. You are jealous because Brian and Gus have a relationship, which was clearly well established before they came back. He used his visits to Canada to truly connect with Gus. You bought Jenny ice cream.”

“I took her to the park and we did lots of fun stuff!” He objects.

“What's her favourite colour?”

“Pink.” Michael looks unwisely smug.

“It's orange, and I know this because I was with them when they had to take the pink top, which was also a size too small, back.”

“Why were you with them?” He frowns.

“This is what you picked up on?” Emmett's slightly angry tone startles both of us as we were so engrossed in our discussion. “He's Mel’s best friend and Jenny's godfather. They have regular shopping trips.”

“Shopping is boring for me. So I am more than happy for you to take that hit Ted!” He retorts.

“And Teddy accepts with pleasure! Look Michael, this isn't about what you want to do, it's about Jenny’s wishes.” Emmett snaps, as he comes to join us on my side of the booth. “I agree with Ted, you are jealous of Brian and Gus.”

“I am not!” Michael bites back, then stands up. “You two don't know how the relationship between a father and their child works.”

“Neither do you!” Emmett returns. “Where are you going?”

“To the gym. PT session has just come free.” He checks his phone again. “I will see you boys at Babylon.”

“If only you knew Michael.”’I hear Emmett mutter as he returns to the counter and I can't help but wonder what that means...

End of flashback

“Uncle Ted!” Jenny shakes my arm. “You okay?”

“Sorry, sweetheart, just drifted a bit. Did you ask me something?”

“Yes. Do you think grandma will do the apple brined chicken tonight?”

“Oh I am sure of it, it’s your favourite after all.”

DIAMOND STORE - AN HOUR LATER

JENNIFER'S OFFICE

JUSTIN

“Say something other than, oh sweetheart!” I grumble as Mom grins from ear to ear. I have just told her that I have agreed to go to therapy, well at least one, with Brian. But now I need her advice on the living arrangements. “Right, so the other suggestion he had, by he I mean Mark, is that I move into the west wing of Britin.”

“And you need me to do what?” She frowns.

“Tell me it's a good…”

“From what point of view is it a bad idea?” She queries with a small smile, and I start to blush. “Honey, you have managed to keep a lid on your desire for the gorgeous tyrant for weeks now. Move in and wear a cage of death at night should you suddenly decide to sleepwalk.”

“Cage of death? How do you even know about that?!” I gasp.

“Liberty Avenue PFLAG chapter, joined a few months back.” She giggles. “So, therapy…”

“Jewel has already ordered me to go correct and I promised her that I will.”

“Good.” She smiles. “And the going out further afield thing?” I tense up as this is another bone of contention, I haven't gone anywhere other than the store, the cottage, and Jewel’s place. “And since you are starting to harden like concrete, I am going to bring up drawing and painting too. You seem hellfire determined not to do this anymore. I don’t understand why you are denying the world your talent.”

“Mom…” I warn, she doesn't understand that I am too scared to try. He broke my hands, the one thing an artist needs! “...it is not time for that…”

She regards me carefully. “I was happy with this place. Very happy, it was niche, bijou and didn't take up too much time or interfere with my home life.” I frown as am not sure where she is going with this. “Then one day a guy walked in for a bottle of wine. He purchased it, and was about to leave when he walked around the store again. He seemed to be checking it out, and didn't seem pleased by what he saw. Then he left and I thought nothing more about it until two weeks later when he came back. He left me an envelope with a raft of ideas about how the store could be better laid out, how the in store magazine needed revamping, and how he was the guy to help me do it. I showed it to your father and he said he couldn't see the harm in talking to the guy, so I did and seven years later here we are.”

“Okay, not sure what the point is.”

“My point is that he took a piece of coal and with judicious tweaking and polishing made it a diamond.”

“Still not following.” I sigh as she can sometimes go off on one, as Pearl says.

“The guy who came in worked for Vanguard, and when he started his own advertising business I followed him. His determination to make this succeed no matter what kept me by his side.”

“Mom, what are you…”

“His name is Brian Kinney.”

“Brian? Brian runs your advertising?!” I gawk and she nods before reaching into her drawer and pulling out the latest edition of the instore magazine. “And he has made a great suggestion. You can come in now!” I turn to the office door and Brian walks in. “Don't worry, he arrived after that part of the conversation.”

“Hey, Jennifer.” He kisses her cheek before sitting on the edge of her desk facing me. He takes up the magazine and flicks through it before dropping it in my lap. I look at it then him not sure what to do. “What do you think of it, from an aesthetic point of view?”

I turn the pages slowly, then sigh as I don't want to hurt her feelings. “It is a little flat picture wise. I love the magazine, as you know, but whoever is doing the artwork has no imagination.”

“Can you draw me a man eating an apple?” Brian asks, and I stare at him. “Not right now, think about how you would make a man eating an apple look, how to make him look like he has the best thing ever in his mouth.” I swallow hard then cross my legs. Yep, that was definitely a twitch! “Do you think you could get that to me by Sunday?”

“Um, yeah, but why?”

“We want to revamp the artwork, and...”

“Seriously? You are going to do that?!” I gasp, picking up the magazine again turning quickly to Emmett’s page. “This needs to be done first! If you…”

BRITIN - THREE HOURS LATER

SUNROOM

BRIAN

I am feeling all kinds of fucking smug right now. Justin is sitting at his easel,  concentrating on Emmett's page. I was struggling to figure a way of getting him to start drawing again, when I passed in Diamonds and saw a lady pick up, and then put back the magazine, which is free. When I asked her why, she said that it didn't hit her visually. She loved reading it, but the pictures didn't grab her. So I took a copy back to my office and started to read it, but pretty soon I found myself just turning the pages until I got to Emmett's column, reading that, then turning again. Then I saw it, Justin's painting, and knew what I had to do, and it worked! It killed two birds with one stone: got him drawing again and out of the house.

“Ouch!” Justin hisses and shakes his hand.

Sighing, I approach, determined to keep a lid on it as we’ve made progress, and I don't want him scurrying back into his dark world again. “How's it going?” I ask, standing behind him so I can check it out. When I do, I almost want to scream at him, it's a million times better!

“Think it is definitely better.” He rolls his wrist again then sits up straighter. “What do you think?”

I step forward, effectively trapping him between me and the desk. “I think you are a genius.” I nonchalantly massage his shoulders; he gasps quietly then I have to take step back! “So what you got planned this weekend?”

“Rest and TV, then catch up with Jewel and Pearl tomorrow about tonight.” He murmurs.

“Why not come with us?” I slide my hands down to his biceps and knead gently. “You're her best friend, and I don't...I mean, I would rather you weren't on your own. It is date night for Mark and Daphne.”

“Are you sure? It's your family stuff too that is going to be discussed from what she said.”

“You can wear ear defenders if you want.” I tease. He says nothing, nor does he object to me starting to do his exercises for him. I stand to his side, take his left hand and slowly and gently ease the cramping. He gives me a tired smile then there is a clink as the pencil rolls off the easel hitting it on the way to the floor. “Want to have a nap after?”

“Yeah, maybe just a hour. I’ve forgotten how lost I can get in it.” He gestures to the picture. “How'd you know him?”

“Emmett?” He nods, offering no protest when I move his other side and start on his right hand. “He produces the magazine for Jennifer…” His eyes widen. “...for free. Loves food, although you wouldn't think it to look at him. He owns Liberty Avenue diner, widowed…”

“Widowed?!” He gasps.

“Shit, didn't mean to say that.” I reach for my phone and dial his number. “Hey, Emmett, you okay? Look, I am sorry but Justin knows you're a widow. Yeah, I think it is time too. See you later.” When I feel the wiggle of his fingers against the palm of my hand I resume my ministrations. “You have to come now, Emmett insists.”

“Okay.” He replies.

“Now go have a nap.” I order, but as I try to release his hand he holds on.

“Five more minutes?” He looks hopeful.

“Okay.”

LOUNGE

MARK

He looks exhausted but finally he is moving to the main house. I watch him check that there's nothing left behind then silently close the bedroom door. He gives a small smile as Daph comes in. They met on Wednesday after his second nightmare this week. Brian was away, and it was just us when we heard the screams.

“Ready?” She questions, and clutching onto his pillow tightly, he follows her out.

JUSTIN'S WING OF BRITIN - TWO HOURS LATER

MASTER BEDROOM

DAPHNE

“Justin. I know we haven't started our sessions properly, but I need to ask you something; no, I need to tell you that I think I know something.”

“What's that?” He replies, straightening the throw just so.

“Ethan.” He tenses up but I have to continue. “I think that Ethan made you, didn't he?” He is still and quiet. “Just because he persuaded you doesn't make it any the less…”

“It wasn't rape!” He exclaims. “I said yes, I let him!”

“I wasn't going to say rape, I was going to say qualified consent. You said yes to please him, but you really didn't want to.”

Slowly he turns to face me. “No. Then he said it was awful. That I was unresponsive, frigid even.”

“And…”

“We didn't have full sex after that; he refused. We had been waiting for the right moment to have sex for the first time and he said I ruined it for him. We would get each other off, you know wanking, but nothing more. We hardly ever kissed, not even on the cheek, and that's one of my favourite things to do. To be connected to a guy.” He sighs sits down, then to my surprise blushes! “You can't tell anyone, not even Mark!”

“Friend and client confidentiality means absolutely not.”

“I am glad you said friend first.” He picks at the throw.

“You don't have to answer this, but did you bottom or top, and how long has it been since you had full sex?” I sit next to him and link our arms.

“Bottomed. Well tried to. Never doing that again. Eighteen months.” I gape at him and he shrugs. “You get used to it.”

“Yikes! So when did you start talking to Brian, or Dark Storm as you knew him then?”

“About a year into...into what I thought was a relationship, but it was just a power thing for him, wasn't it?”

“Yep it was. And you are no longer under his control. I think he saw that, especially when you said yes to the show; instead of waiting for him to reach your level. So he sought to drag you back down, but you pushed back and the cheating was the last straw for you. So he…”

“He beat me up.” I think he is going to cry but he shakes it off then his jaw drops. “But he is wrong…” I say nothing, wanting him to come to the realisation himself. From what Mark has been telling me about their contact and how gentle he was when massaging his hand; their looks at each other when they don't think the other is noticing. “I am not frigid. I...I didn't...I…”

Come on, just say it!

“I didn't fancy him! I...I don't think I ever did, he paid me attention and I was flattered, more than flattered, but the more I got out and met other people and...and spoke to Dar...Brian. The less sex mattered, so I just channelled my frustration elsewhere.”

“Did you two, you and Brian I mean, ever speak, before you met at your Mom’s?”

“No. We were going to; well I was going to ask for his number as I was going to tell him about my show, but I couldn't wait so I...” He blinks a couple of times. “I told Brian before I told Eth-Eth-Ethan. Before I told Jewel or my Mom, I told Brian first. Does that mean something?”

“Not necessarily, but can I ask, what I suspect will be a very personal question?” He nods. “Why did you blush a few minutes ago?”

“I...I twitched.” He mumbles.

“Twitched? What do you mean twitched?” Then I realise. “For real…”

“Yeah. First time in ages.”

“That definitely means something!” He starts to grin. “It means there is nothing wrong with you, it was all him.”

“Yeah, I know. I know that now, the blame is squarely where it belongs; with Ethan!”

I lean across to kiss his cheek, because for the first time he didn't stammer or refuse to say his name!

ALLEGHANY PARK - SAME TIME

PEARL

Mom is running back to the car. We had come out to do some shopping really early, as she and dad are going to be cooking this evening. Dinner had to be postponed because Gus's dad had to go on a last minute business trip. We decided to go for a walk around the park because it was such a nice day, and then I found it. That is the biggest bunny I have seen in my life, and it is also in distress. I approach gingerly, making soothing, I hope, noises and then I see it, the ripple of her belly!

“Oh my god, you're in labour!” I gasp, and look up the path to see where Mom is.

“Hey kid, you okay?” A deep but concerned voice asks and I turn to face the owner. Now I am in more shock. For standing there is Drew Boyd, the ex Ironman, Drew the hunk Boyd! “You okay?” He repeats.

“The…” I point to the bushes and he steps forward to have a look. “...I think she’s…”

“In labour and judging by that struggling breached!” He declares, and rips off his coat. “Are you by yourself?! Do you trust me?!”

“No and yes. My Mom is with...coming now!” I point at the jeep as it pelts down the path.

“Great! Been with her long?”

“Since I was born!” I reply, thinking what a stupid question.

“I mean the rabbit!” He returns with a grin.

“Oh! About half an hour, she was in a sack and I saw it moving…”

“Some fuckheads call themselves human!” He growls and picks up the sack I pulled her out of. “We need to get her to the office! Let's get her on this!” Slowly and quietly we get her on the sack and lift her up then make our way to the car.

“Okay, Drew Boyd, how?” Mom demands as she hops out and opens the rear door.

“Fangirl later, save bunny now!” I order. “Now what office?”

“Mine. I am a vet now. Oh, sorry for swearing. Can I drive?”

“Sure.” Mom hands him her keys and gets in with me in the back.

TENDERHANDS VETERINARY PRACTICE - AN HOUR LATER

JEWEL

I don't know what she is fetching about more, the bunny or the fact that Gus has not replied to her text! It would appear that his birth mother has upset him again, but Pearl has not said what she’s done.

The door to the surgery opens and Drew’s nurse steps out; we both stand up. “It was close, but all four of them, well five including Mom are fine. She’s cleaned them, so the bond is there and they are feeding.”

The front door opens and Ems comes tearing in. “What happened?! One minute you are shopping for dinner and now you are at the vets! Explain!”

“We found a massive bunny in a sack and it turns out she was in labour in the park and then Drew Boyd happened up on the bunny and I….” Pearl takes a breath. “...well, he drove, brought her here, and there are four of them and...finally that bonehead has replied!” She grouses as her phone beeps. Ems and I exchange indulgent looks and wait for her to fill us in. “And once more she's grounded him!”

“What the hell for this time?!” Ems fumes. “These days if she’s not trying to turn him in to Stud Muffin Junior, she is almost wet nursing him again!”

“Dad!” Pearl shudders.

“What? She wears those bits of material low enough!” He quips.

“Again, Dad!” Pearl chuckles, and biffs him on his arm before reading some more then nodding. “Barn is almost finished.”

“Barn is...oh, I see.” Ems sighs and I clear my throat. “Gus is moving in with Brian, but into the barn, which Lindsay wanted, well still wants, to use as her studio.”

“So she figures that by constantly grounding him, it makes him look bad to Brian and he changes his mind?” I suggest.

“Exactly. If she can't have something then nobody else can in her world. I so feel for Mel. She’s barracking her too for supporting Gus in the moving out.”

“Ahem, ladies.” The nurse reminds us of her presence and we look sheepishly her.

“Sorry, you were saying?” I ask.

“So the thing is, where are we going to house them?”

“House them? Who them?” Ems queries.

“And then of course there is the one that was in breach, he is the runt of the litter, even though he came out first, so he needs extra special care.”

“Again the who?” Ems demands.

“This young lady found a Flemish Giant Bunny, very young, think this is her first litter.” The room goes quiet as Drew Boyd comes out and, sadly, does up his lab coat.

“Thanks, Christa, I can take it from here.” She nods and heads back to the office. “Do you know they are bred for their meat and fur? Just fucking disgraceful! Well, they are obviously going to be here for at least a week for monitoring, but then we have to find homes for them...what are you staring at?”

“You are kidding us with that question, right?” Pearl, for want of a better word, drools. “You are absolutely built, beautiful and love animals. The only thing that would make you perfect is if you were single!”

“Uh, thank you. And I am, but back to the…”

“What a coincidence, so is my Mom!”

“Pearl!” I squeak with embarrassment.

“What? You are single, and have a very hot spot for him as you have told me many a time.”

“Pearl, stop!” Ems guffaws.

“I am Pearl...as they have said, she is Jewel and he is Emmett and also my Dad.”

“I can see the pair of you in her and you guys can call me Drew; but back on topic. The rabbit and her kittens need to be…”

“Can we see them?” Ems asks suddenly.

“Sure, follow me, but you have to be quiet.” We follow him in and are faced with the most beautiful sight ever, they are feeding. “Isn't that gorgeous?” He whispers.

“Yes it is. They all are.” I reply, and just about stop myself from stroking her foot, which is poking out of the cage.

“Dad, you have lots of space, you can take them!” Pearl exclaims as quietly as she can.

“Yes I can, and yes I will.”

“Well that was easy!” Drew grins.

“Too easy. What you plotting?” I demand.

Ems sighs. “You know that Justin is drawing again? But now he is refusing to move into the house”

“Why?!” I fume as he had said that the place wasn't set up properly!

“Had another couple of nightmares according to Mark.” Some of my anger leaves me. I am still pissed he lied though. “And I think…” He points at the runt of the litter and smiles. “...he needs something to focus on. To care for. And this little bundle of cuteness will be perfect.”

“Uh, Ems, how is that going to work?” I frown.

“Because Brian loves bunny rabbits, they are his Kryptonite. Seriously, the moment he sees them he will want at least two.”

“And…” Drew prompts.

I start to smile at his subtle matchmaking attempts. “They will be living in the main house with Brian.”

“And Brian is?”

“Brian Kinney. He is going to be Justin's next boyfriend!” Pearl declares quietly; before looking at Drew intensely. “Are you busy later?”

“No why?”

“Can I interest you in dinner, to thank you for saving Sapphire and her kittens, whose names I will come up with shortly.” He thinks for a bit before nodding and smiling. “Good. Now can you give my Mom your number so that she can firm up the details?”

“Is she always like this?” Drew laughs.

“Yep.” I chuckle as she smirks with pride. “With us as parents, she couldn't turn out any other way than direct and on point.”

“Here is my card. I look forward to your call, Jewel, and to getting to know you all better. I’ve not made many friends since I moved here. Building up my practice.”

“Okay, let's leave him to it. We have food to prep!” Ems declares and bustles us out.

INSIDE JEWEL AND PEARL’S JEEP - FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER

PEARL

I look across at Mom as she concentrates on the road. I sit up straighter in the seat the tap her hand.

“Hmmm?”

“You saw it too, right?”

“What?” She frowns looking briefly at me.

“Dad was casting looks, and he's never wrong. Also, the rumours had been circling for years...”

“Ah that. Yeah, saw it. First time since Godiva, I think.”

“So you gonna be Drew’s beard?” I grin at her.

“Of course, I would do anything for your Dad.”

LINDSAY AND MEL’S HOUSE - EARLY AFTERNOON, SAME DAY

BRIAN

“Goddamn fothermucker!” I mutter as I stride up the path. Before I can even reach it, the door is wrenched open and an incensed Lindsay is hauling me in. I pull my arm from her grasp. “So, what has he done this time?”

“He is being churlish and arrogant...yes arrogant, which he gets from you, and secretive!” She explodes.

“About?” I ask as I stride past her into the lounge. “The arrogance, I mean. As for the secret, it is…”

“We do not have secrets in this family!” She rages. “He won't show me his phone. As for arrogance, he has been unnecessarily smug about moving in with you, which clearly shows…”

“I want to hear his side first.” I interrupt and head to the foot of the stairs. “Sonny Boy, can you come down please?!”

“And that doesn't help either. By calling him Sonny Boy, your pet name for him, you are immediately taking his side!”

The stomp of Gus’s steps, the look of absolute fury on his face, and the lack of his precious means one thing. Turning to her, I just put out my hand.

“Brian! You are undermining my authority!”

“No he is not, Lindsay, he is stopping you from being nosy!” Mel snaps as she approaches me with his phone. “He doesn't want you to know about that particular thing right now. Why can't you respect that?”

“Especially after the last time you tried to play Cupid!” Gus growls.

Lindsay balls her fists. “Give him that phone, Mel, then you can get out too! This is my house, remember?!”

“Mom!” Gus exclaims, immediately getting between me and Mel. “Momma, put it back wherever you found it. Please?” For a few long seconds, Mel does nothing before she sighs and nods. “Thanks.” We wait for her to come back empty handed; she is about to say something but before she can, Jenny comes out with Gus’s phone. “Uh, Jenny…”

“I am sick and tired of your bullying, Momma!” Jenny states and holds out the phone. “Take it. One of you take it. She had no right to take it off of you. None. So, Momma, what are you going to do? You going to throw me out instead?!” The room goes quiet and nobody moves. “Well, are you?! Every time you don't get your way, you threaten Momma with chucking her out!” She turns to me with tears in her eyes. “Uncle Brian…” She starts to cry and we all wait for her to compose herself. “...the cottage?”

“What about it?” I ask gently, knowing exactly what she is going to ask, and seeing Lindsay now, it is the a no brainer.

“If we had to, could Momma and I stay there, just until Momma gets…”

“Jenny!” Lindsay exclaims.

“Of course you can. In fact, why don't you pack a bag now? All three of you. Stay in the house tonight though. Let everyone calm down…” I cut my eye at an incredulous looking Lindsay.

Whatever Lindsay is going to say is interrupted by the ratatatat that I know only too well, I open the door to Michael, who looks surprised and guilty.

“What are you doing here?!” He demands.

“Coming to collect Gus. What do you want, Michael? Are you here to see Jenny?” He says nothing then I catch the look on Lindsay's face. Whatever he wants to to say or do she knows about it. “Nope, you are not, so why are you here?”

“I need to speak to Mel and Lindsay in private, so can you take them away please?”

“Them?” I repeat, and ache for her as the hurt expression flutters across her face. “Do you mean my son and your daughter? Is that the them you are referring to, brother dear?”

“Brian…” He whines. “...for once, just do as I ask!”

“I have always done what you asked, hence your sense of entitlement. So back on topic, if you want to speak to them in private, have that…” I gesture at the Captain Astro wallet I got him when Jenny was born. “...and are referring to them as them I am assuming that…” The guilty look deepens. “...you really are a piece of shit!” I snap before turning back to the kids. “Go and pack. Now.”

“Yes, Uncle Brian, and I am glad!” Jenny chokes out as she starts to head to her room. “You stopped being my daddy dear a long time ago!”

“Dad? Is he? Does he want to?” Gus looks at me then at Mel, before he turns his Kinney Glare to Lindsay. “And she knows?! So it seems he's not the only piece of shit!” He storms before taking the stairs two a time.

“So why?” Mel demands and I pray she doesn't bulldog bitch dyke him into keeping them, we are so close to freedom. “Can I at least tell her a reason?”

“Let's be honest, I am not cut out to be a father. We like different things, and whilst it was fine when you were in Canada, now you are here, I can’t and...and don't want to dedicate my time to someone who is not interested in the same things I am. I have spent the last few years being something to someone else, it is time for me to be me for me.”

“Wow. Just wow.” Mel whispers before looking up the stairs then turning back to him. “So you want to give up your rights?”

“Yes. Obviously you can keep…”

“No we won’t.” Mel declares, ignoring the gasp from Lindsay. “I knew you felt like this and have done since she was about three. Come back on Monday and we can go through the papers then. You get the support payments back from that age onwards.”

“Mel, are you crazy?!” Lindsay explodes. “We have earned that money!”

“No. You don't earn money for bringing up a child! He gets it back. And we will also be discussing future parenting of both Gus and Jenny. I assume due to your lack of reaction to his announcement, that you had an inkling this was going to happen?”

“Of course not! I am as shellshocked as you!” She exclaims.

“But hid it so well.” I sneer. “Look, this is Mom, Dad and Emmett's night tonight. Can we put this on the back burner till Monday?”

“Emmett? What does be have to do with anything?!” Michael frowns.

“He wants to make an announcement too.” I reply, then head upstairs. “How close are you to packed?!” I call through Jenny’s door,

“Almost done!” Jenny calls back whilst Gus opens his and comes out with two holdalls bulging at the seams.

“Okay, let's go!” He declares. “Momma! I am sure Daph has things you can use for one night. Grab your coat, purse and phone and go the car. I will lock up and post the keys back!”

“Gus!” Lindsay exclaims and tries to halt his progress. “Look, like your father said, let's all calm down. There is no need for returning keys and…”

“Yes there is. The fact you cared more about earning the money than how Jenny would feel speaks volumes!”

“Can we please just go?” Jenny sighs as she comes down the stairs ahead of me. “And don’t worry, Michael, I am over you. But once everything is finalised you can tell your Ma how she no longer has me as a granddaughter by you!”

As she storms out of the house nobody says anything.

DINER - EVENING

MICHAEL

I stare at Emmett in disbelief, I am sure that he is joking. He merely stares back.

“You are a millionaire?! You?!”

“Yes. Not as much as Brian but enough for me to be more than comfortable, and, of course, for the vultures to start circling.” He grimaces.

Brandon snorts so I glare at him. “And that was because?” I snap.

“Well just as you find out about the new bank, it closes.” He chortles and is joined by Ben.

“Well aren’t you two just nice and cosy?!” I taunt them. “Something to share with the rest of the family and our friends?!”

“Ahem. You are not my friend at the moment, not after the way you have behaved!” Emmett fumes at me. “And until you have apologised to our satisfaction, you will remain in the unfriend zone!”

I am about to bitch back at him when the door to the diner opens. A woman, a girl and two dogs come in with a blonde haired hottie! Now him I could get to know in every position in my repertoire!

“Um, sorry, but the diner is closed for a private function.” I get up and approach them with a smile. “But you could come back tomorrow.” I zero in on him.

“Christ, is it everything and anything with you?!” Brandon goads me but I ignore him.

“Hey, darlings! Oh you devilish dickens, they are gorgeous! When?” Emmett exclaims, rushing to the dogs, who scurry behind the woman’s legs in surprise.

“You are scaring them!” I chastise him and hunker down to see them properly then get back up. “Are they pitbulls?”

“Yep.” The woman smiles. “Meet Holmes and Watson. Now, is that apple brined chicken I smell?!”

“Yes it is, but who are you?” Ma asks, smiling at her. “And her, though I'm assuming by the similar looks, you’re her mother?”

“Uh-huh. Jewel and this is Pearl. Hey, Gus, how are you…” She pauses and studies Mel for a few long seconds before smiling. “Nice to see you again.”

“And you.” Mel grins back. “So how are you connected to whoever you are connected to!”

“Excuse me, Mel, but when did you meet her?!” Lindsay has stopped gawking at this Jewel person.

“Remember the dinner in Cali a couple of years...oh my goodness, I thought you looked familiar, you were our waiter!” She gasps looking at the blonde. “Now wait, it will come back to me.” She closes her eyes and drums her nails on the table. “Justin!”

“Yep, that would be me!” He laughs.

“And who are you to Jewel Johnson, she is one of the greatest sommeliers in the world? I would hardly think that you two would be in the same circles, well apart from the industry I suppose.” Lindsay sniffs and then rises extending her hand. “Hi Jewel, I am Lindsay and…”

“He is my best friend.” Jewel retorts, then waits for Lindsay to drop her hand.

Lindsay glares at a snickering Mel and Brian and sits down again.

“Hey, Pearl, Miss J! Oh wow, finally!” Gus exclaims as he and Hunter come out from the kitchen. “They are gorgeous!” The devil dogs wag their tails at his enthusiasm. I step back further, I know all about pitbulls.

LINDSAY

“Gus, how do you know Pearl and Jewel?!” I can't believe this and internally fume at the look of irritation that crosses Jewel’s face. “May I call you Jewel?”

“Suppose.” She mutters before unclipping the dogs’ collars but they remain at her side.

“Pearl goes to my school. I’m her buddy.” He replies after he and Hunter get their faces cleaned. “Ugh! Doggy drool!” They get up and head to the bathroom laughing.

“Oh.” I gasp as I realise something. From the few brief glimpses I got at his phone, I noticed that he was getting a lot of texts from his buddy and the smile he would get when he did.

“Leave it alone!” Brian whispers in my ear making me jump. “Forgiveness will not be an option, if you try to play Cupid again, especially now.” I glare at his back as he heads back to the other end of the table, but he is right. This has to be played and orchestrated very carefully.

“So was that it, Emmett?” Everyone looks at me, but I am watching Jewel as she and Justin glide around the table helping Debs plate up. Whilst her story is well known, she got pregnant by her dear friend when very young but he died before she could tell him. I am at a loss to understand why she is here. “Brian said you had an announcement, so I take it this was about your wealth?”

“Yes and no, there is more. I was married. And now I am widowed.”

“Widowed?! Who were you married to?!” Ben is gaping at him.

“Godiva, we were married for five years, we got married after he was diagnosed.”

We are stunned into silence.

“And he was a very smart man, where the stock market was concerned, and made sure I would want for nothing. So glad he met you both.” He smiles at Pearl and Jewel; again I do not understand!

“Why should them meeting your late husband mean so much?” I hope I have kept my frustration in check.

“Because she is my daughter.” He replies beaming at Pearl.

“What?!” Mel and I exclaim and everyone is just staring, it is then I notice the lack of reaction from Gus. “You knew?! When did you find out?!”

“Why is that important to you?” Gus retorts.

“I was just surprised that's all.” I return, biting back the slapdown he deserves.

“But she was told…” Mel begins.

“Yeah, turns out that when I found out he got me pregnant that was the final straw for our racist parents. They shipped me off but not before they told me that he had died in a car accident…”

“That is awful!” Mel declares.

“They told me the same thing for her.” Emmett sighs.

“Oh what a bunch of…” Debs searches for the word.

“Cunts?” Pearl supplies, Debs gawks at her before breaking into a grin and nodding.

“So anything else?” Ted asks.

“Two things.” Carl declares. “One, Brian and Brandon are the sons we gave up. And, two, you have a date next Friday!”

“Sons?! Hold up date?! What date?!” Ted shouts and Emmett almost drops the bottle he is holding.

“Me, Uncle Ems, Mark and Daph have been talking and we think he would be perfect for you, your own pocket rocket.” Jenny decrees.

“Pocket rocket? Jenny what are you talking about?!” Ted frowns.

“His name is Blake and he’s new in town.” Emmett explains as he opens the wine and pours himself a large glass. “Oh I am so pleased for you four, the family is back together! Ooh I have an idea! It can be a double date!”

MICHAEL

I can’t take my eyes off of Justin, he is gorgeous, oh the things I could do to him!

“Double?” Ma’s question brings my focus back to the conversation.

“Yes, with Jewel and Drew Boyd.”

“Drew Boyd?! Isn't he gay?” Lindsay looks around the table.

“Not to my knowledge.” Jewel replies. “We could make it a triple date, but some folks aren't up to speed yet.”

I have to stop myself from fantasising about kissing the sweetly embarrassed look off of Justin’s face. “So who have you got your heart set on, Justin? Someone you have just met?” I rest my chin on my hand and fix him my most sultry of stares.

“I have just come out of a bad relationship, so…”

“I know just the person to make you forget about that.” I husk at him and he blushes deeper.

“So do we.” Emmett clips out. “He needs someone who will treasure him and be faithful, and that is not you!” He sneers. “He needs someone like Brian. Yes, definitely Brian.”

I boil inside but say nothing, but I am sure of one thing: there is no way that Brian is getting anywhere near my soon to be pocket rocket!

MICHAEL

“So the dogs, are they safe?” I ask Jewel, who has not stopped frowning at me for the last few minutes.

“You know, I have seen you before but I can’t quite place you. As for the dogs, yes, they are. Jay, I mean, Justin and I picked them together. He is a furball freak.”

Again with the cute blushing.

“What’s your favourite animal then, Jay? Can I call you Jay?”

“It’s Justin now that I am here. Jay has bad memories for me.” He looks so sad.

“Why?” Ma asks, ever curious. Well, she says curious, I say nosy, but for once she is using that for good purposes..

“That’s what my ex used to call me. Especially when he was being…”

“An asslicker and not in a good way.” Pearl snickers, everyone but me smiles.

“You have some choice language there for one so young.” I point out.

“Say it as I see it.” Pearl shrugs. “Besides, with these two for folks, forthright is all I am going to be. No point in pussying about, why use four words when two will do.”

“And you’ve used your one already, so no more.” Jewel berates her.

“How old are you as a matter of interest?” Carl asks; I still refuse to think of him as my father in any shape, way or form. Same for Brandon as my brother, unless I can gain something.

“Going to be 16 in July. Oh, want to come to my party, Gus? Hunter? Jenny?”

“Oh how nice of you to think of Gus!” Lindsay exclaims. “He’d be…”

“RSVPing when he is good and ready and not before.” Brian interrupts.

“But I was thinking of taking him away for a couple of weeks, so would need to know the dates at least.”

“Lindsay, don’t you think…” Brian begins, starting to look annoyed.

“Mom, Dad, me and Justin will discuss it first - not sure on dates, I know that he has a show to do, and…”

“A show? Beautiful and talented.” I interrupt. “So what is it that you show, Justin?”

“He's an artist.” Brian smiles at him. Oh no you don't, there is no way you are using your dubious charm and bought teeth to get in my way! “A very talented one at that. He’s got a piece of work to do for his Mom and me, but then he has to go back to painting.”

“Really? Anything I would've seen?” Lindsay asks. “I am very well known in the Pittsburgh art scene.”

“Not sure. I was living in Cali at the time, and all my art was there, so unless you came there I doubt it.”

“Try me, it might be amusing.” She titters.

“Amusing?” Jewel demands. “Why would it be amusing to find out about the artwork of my best friend?”

“Yes, Lindsay, please elucidate to Pearl's mother, who is in charge of the guest list, why that would be funny.” Brian snipes, and Lindsay flinches slightly. “And besides, you have already admired one of his pieces, it’s the one in my office. I must get you to sign that actually.”

“Amusing was a slip of the tongue, a little joke.” Lindsay backtracks. Jewel scowls at her but says nothing. “I apologise.”

“Oh you are sorry, that's true.” Jewel holds Lindsay's gaze.

Note to self, need to get on the right side of the Amazonian!

“Shall we start before the food goes cold?” Carl suggests as Jewel continues to glare. “Jewel, want to showcase your talents and do the wine?”

“Huh? Oh yeah, sorry. So I snuck a looksee at the menu. For the scallops, I chose a...oh hang on...Ems, aren’t we due a restock of your friend’s wine?”

“Oh yes we are! So when can we come round and check out the cellar?”

“Check out the cellar? I don’t quite foll...oh you are kidding me?!” Mel gasps and looks between Ems and Jewel. “You? You are the friend who does the recommendations for Ems? That Riesling was gorgeous, goes perfectly with the schnitzel he loves, and he is not a fan of white. Says it is like vinegar!”

“You are taking that job, Jewel!” Brian chuckles. “Can't believe my cellar has been being curated by the great Jewel Johnson!

“Job? What job? As the sommelier at Woody’s?!” Ems squeals. “Yes, you must! Now, back to cellar…”

“Last time wasn't me.” Jewel has a sly smile. “That was my nubile apprentice. Well, not all of it, he did half…”

“Was it?” Brian looks impressed. I do not like that look that was exchanged between Brian and Justin! “Which half?”

“Red. Like you, I prefer that to white, though I'm not adverse to a nice chilled Boeschandal.”

“Ah, now that is my sipping red. So luscious and beautiful.”

“Oh mine is Apothic Dark. Now that is…”

“Dark? Now is it the kind of wine you drink during a stormy night?” Emmett rests his chin on his hand and smiles at Justin who goes pink again. “Oh, that is a yes, so put at least twelve of those down.”

“Speaking of Woody's, when is that going to open?” I ask, smiling. “Maybe, Justin, you and I could go to the opening to support my brother.”

“He is already going.” Jewel states, then tastes the scallops that Ma prepared. “Okay, pass me the vintage burgundy, Ems.” She pours a glass then hands both the plate and glass to Mel with a smile. “Thoughts?”

Mel takes her time savouring them before pausing and staring at Ma. “Oh...?! Are  you kidding?!” She eats some more looking very happy.

“Care to share, Mel?” Lindsay prompts.

“No.” She returns before turning back to Ma. “You cooked this from scratch?” Ma nods and frowns. “But how? That’s not possible, you weren’t there.”

“Honey, what is it?” Ma asks.

“This is the exact same dish I had when I first met Jewel! The exact same! And this is the wine that Jewel and I swapped for when the senior male partner tried to play cock of the walk, and…”

“Got castrated.” Justin chuckles. “I remember that!”

“Can you shed some light on why this dish is so important?” Carl frowns.

“Because the chef is notorious for not sharing recipes, he doesn’t even have a cookbook deal, he cooks intuitively. So how did you…”

“My Debs is well known in the family for recreating any dish you care to tell her. Just describe it and she can do it perfectly!” Carl boasts.

“And what was the second dish you ordered, Mel?” Jewel turns to Justin. “Before she answers. You would know it, so can we taste it, Debs?” Ma gets Justin a plate and we are all silent as he eats. The smile he has on his face when he finishes could light up the darkest part of hell. “It’s spot on, isn’t it?”

“Yep.” He nods and then looks longingly at the chicken.

“Let me get you another piece. Are you a breast man?” I get up and stride towards the platters.

“No, he’s all about the thighs.” Emmett laughs. “You eat breast, which is shameful for a gay man!”

“Emmett, stop being a bitch!” I snap, embarrassed as I meant to say thigh!

“Hey! Don’t call my friend a bitch!” Justin snarls, much to the surprise of everyone.

“It was a little joke between friends, and…” I start to backtrack. Oh, that little kitty has claws!

“You’re not his friend, and until you are, don’t try to be mine!” Justin snaps back, then glares at me. “Well, get on with it?”

“So you want me to pick your food?”

“No, you idiot, I want you to apologise to Emmett for calling him a bitch! As for food, I can serve myself. Heaven knows where your fingers have been, but I do know where they haven't been. They haven’t been near a tap since you got here, and you went to the bathroom twice!”

“Jesus, Michael!” Ben grimaces. “Just buy a mini bottle of sanitiser and stick it in your fuck pack with the lube and extra thick condoms, you know, the ones that give you the illusion of girth! Now go and wash your hands then sit back down!”

“You don’t tell me what to do! We are over, remember?! Besides, you don't know how thick I am because you would never let me top you!” I shout at him, my face flaming.

“Because you were never clean!” Ben blasts. “I was not willing to take a chance on my health because you couldn’t be bothered to run some water over your hands. Besides your approach to finishing pissing was to shake it off!”

“Oh gross!” Gus exclaims. “I told you, Momma! I told you those weren’t me!”

“Everyone stop!” Carl booms, and for once I am grateful for his interference. “Michael, go and wash your hands with soap and water. This is supposed to be a time for reconnecting as family and friends! When you get back, Michael, you will apologise to Emmett then…”

“You don’t to tell me what to do! You are not my father!” I storm at him.

“And as of Monday, you won't be mine!” Jenny shouts, rendering the diner completely quiet and I swallow hard.

“What does that mean?” Carl demands, but before I can reply he holds up his hand. “I am asking you, Jenny, what does that mean?”

“He doesn’t want to be a dad anymore, and on Monday he is giving up his rights. He can’t be with someone who doesn't like the same things that he does. Also, he is fed up with being something for someone else and wants to be him for him…”

“Are you kidding me with this, Michael? You are giving up your rights because she doesn’t play your way?!” Ma demands.

“It’s not like that! You make it sound so callous and unfeeling towards…”

“It is! It is callous and unfeeling, and I know you, I have for years sadly...” Mel interrupts and stares hard. “...this is not a Michael thing, this is a guy thing. So he doesn’t like kids or, like you with Ben over Hunter, doesn’t want to share?” I am on fire with embarrassment. I had hoped to just get my rights revoked and not have to deal with the real reasoning why! “Don’t you think she deserves to know the truth?!”

Everyone is staring at me, I make my way back to my seat and take a sip of water to cool myself. “It’s not that he doesn’t want kids, but he would prefer that I focus...”

“You have a boyfriend and were trying to get into my pants?!” Justin scowls at me. “Even if you were single, two things: one, you are so not my type. I prefer taller and more tyrannical. And, second, I love kids and for you to throw one over for a guy is just despicable.”

“I am not throwing her over. I will still be her father, but in name only.”

“Oh, it’s the financial responsibility you don’t want?!” Ted explodes, startling everyone.

“Ted, this is nothing to do with…”

“She is my goddaughter, it is everything to do with me! Right, I will be there on Monday. If you are amenable, Mel, I will take over the financial responsibility for her!”

BRIAN

This surely is not happening?! I risk a look at Mel, and she looks like the weight of a million tons is about to be lifted off her shoulders, but then I see the look on Lindsay's face. She has the money look. Oh no my dear, you are not about to do that!

“Ted…” I will Mel not to say anything. “...this is a big responsibility. If you are willing to take financial responsibility, why not go the whole hog and adopt her?” I spot the moment that Mel gets it. “You have always wanted to be a dad, and obviously you won’t stop Ma and Dad from seeing her. In fact, they will see her more and she will be a lot happier.”

“Uncle Ted, would you? Please, will you?!” Jenny pleads.

“Yes Ted, please do.” Lindsay smiles. “She has always admired you. Sorry, Michael, but I have given it some thought and you are…”

“Okay, I will. I will adopt you, Jenny!” Ted exclaims and Jenny leaps across the table to get to him, tears streaming down both their faces. When they calm themselves, Ted sits down and she settles into his lap. “And then your mom and I will work out a residential plan.”

“Residential plan?” Lindsay frowns. “Not sure what you mean. Who is…?

“Oh, stop the crap, Lindsay. Not only am I her godfather, but I am also her confidante, she texted me on the way here to say that, Mel, Gus and she are moving in with Brian because you, Lindsay, have been exerting your it's my house and my way power!”

“What?!” Lindsay gasps, and I have never felt so relieved. The love between Ted and Jenny is so strong and I can’t wait for this to be official! “But you didn't have your phone after you were so rude to me Jenny!”

“No, that’s true, she didn’t have the phone you had Brian buy for her, she has the phone I bought her. I am sick to the back teeth of you, Lindsay. I am glad you have kicked them out.”

“I didn't kick them out, they left! And this is a temporary situation that…”

“Not temporary. We are gone. In fact, Michael, why not move in with her? I am pretty sure that grandma is going to throw you out anyway!” Jenny snarls.

“She is not going to throw you out, Michael.” Dad stuns us all with that. “I am! Get up, you and I are going to go and pack.”

“No, Carl!” Ma exclaims. “I am coming with you!” She turns to Michael. “You heard my husband, get your nasty ass up!” He slowly stands and pulls on his coat and starts to follow them out. “A disgrace a complete disgrace!”

“Oh Michael, one more thing.” Jenny calls out. “I won't be there next Monday, see you next Tuesday OK?”

He just nods and as the door closes Jewel, Pearl, Ems and Ted burst out laughing.

“What?” Lindsay demands. “What is so funny?!”

“Nicely done Jenny. Nicely done.” Mel grins, raises her glass then winks at me.

“Not nicely done.” I raise my glass to her too. “Perfectly done.”

MICHAEL

As I follow Carl and Ma up the street, I come to a stop. “Oh no, she did not!” I snap, and start to head back to the diner.

“Where the hell…?” Carl bellows, I can hear them both coming back after me.

“It is not fucking Monday!” I snarl, as I wrench the door open. “Jenny, you will apologise!” The room goes quiet. “You do not call me that!”

“Call you what?” She replies calmly.

“That word?”

“What word? I merely said I would not be there on Monday; see you next Tuesday, whatever word are you talking about?”

“Oh!” Ted exclaims before looking at Jenny then Pearl. “First, that was once too many, no more. And secondly, date?! You can’t just randomly set me up on a date?!”

TED

“It is not random, when have you ever known me to do anything random?” Ems looks peevishly at me. “This is a result of some well thought out research, and after we whittled it down and the girls discussed it, we…”

“Girls? What girls?!” I look around the table then catch the slightly guilty looks on the faces of Jenny and Pearl, who she has supposedly just met! “Explain yourself, young lady. How did you two meet?.” I sigh with a smile.

“Technically, we haven’t met.” Jenny grins. “We have emailed, which is not completely the same…”

“Jewel, exactly how much like her father is Pearl?” Brandon chuckles.

“Depends on the day. Safe to say that when she gets to full snit, you don't want to get caught in the blast zone.”

“I see. And how long have they been talking?”

“Um, not sure. Figure since Gus was made her buddy, so about four months.”

“Ah.” I rub my temples. “And how much of you has she inherited?” Ems is smiling.

“Why are you smiling, Emmett?! She is mostly likely the reason she called me…”

“Jenny, apologise immediately!” Lindsay orders cutting Michael off. “How dare you call him that?!”

“For what, Momma dear? I told him when I would see him. I don’t understand what other connotation there is. Care to explain?”

“Oh my!” Gus gapes at Jenny then turns to Pearl. “I have just gotten it!”

“I learned from the best!” Pearl grins at Jewel.

BEN

“Wankoweek.” Ted states. “That’s what you called him after you threw him out of the restaurant.”

“Wankoweek?” Brian echoes. “And what’s with the throwing?”

“A food critic came to a restaurant in San Fran and made an unnecessary fuss so I slung him out after calling him a Wankoweek.” Jewel replies sipping her wine.

“Which is…” Brian prompts.

“Wanker of the week.” Jewel chuckles.

“By the by, you also need to point out that you didn’t actually work at the restaurant you threw him out of.” Ted chuckles then stands up, his hand outstretched. She takes it with a frown. “Hi, I am Teddybear, and because of you, I grew a set and kicked him out.”

“Teddy...Teddybear?! That’s you?! So what was it that made the balls drop?"

“Are you kidding me?!” Ma screeches, then grabs a surprised Jewel in her embrace. “Thank you! Thank you!”

“What are you thanking her for?!” Michael demands.

“The demise of Tad, that controlling dickhead!” Ma snarls. “So how come she got you to dump him, and why did you say he dumped you?!”

“Shame.” Ted sighs. “I could not admit to you all that he was everything that you said he was. You called it right away, but…” He shrugs. Personally I thought Tad was okay, he was clear in what he wanted made sure he got it. Ted was punching way above his weight with him. “It was when he started to mess with the pairings, saying he knew better than some get lucky woman, that I really began to get fucked off. I have followed your career since you popped up then became the first Black woman to hold a Master of Wine qualification. When he saw the bottle of Macebo you sent for my birthday, he threw it down the toilet so that was it.”

“He threw it down the toilet?!” Jewel growls. “Both of them?!”

He shakes his head. “I drank the other after I kicked his ass out of my house then threw his stuff out of the window.”

MICHAEL

I have been slowly inching my way back to my seat. This does not go unnoticed by Brandon.

“Thought you were packing?” He snarks.

“Retake your seat, Debs, and you, Michael, let’s get this over and done with.” Carl remarks as he sits down, Ma does so but looks confused as am I. “Been thinking, are you still in touch with your adoptive parents, Brandon?”

“Not anymore.” He replies, I fight not to roll my eyes. It’s not as if they no longer have parents for crying out loud! Brandon frowns. “Why?”

“You said you were never given the letters?”

“So what? You have all found each other now, what difference do the letters make?” I sit back in my chair scowling.

“The difference is that we should’ve been given the letters and she should not have abandoned Brian like that!” Brandon snaps. “For a woman that said she had the kids that she deserved, always have always will, she was quick to…”

“What did you say?” Carl frowns at him.

“Always have, always will? It was something she said all the time, but was quick to…”

“Oh, boo hoo, he got slapped about a bit, he’s still here isn’t he?!” I storm. “At least he knows who his father is!”

“You unfeeling cu...cad!” Pearl screams, she has to be hauled back by Gus, and it’s Hunter that keeps Jenny on the other side of the room.. “Oh, it is so on! Right, first things first, Jenny, me, Gus and Hunter, sleepover. Mom, we’re gonna need an alibi. Not sure when, but we’re going to need one! Come on, let’s get out of here!”

“Slow ya roll, Harley Quinn and the Furious Three!” Jewel orders, stopping the marching to the door. “Butts in seats now!” They make their way back, all three glaring at me, Mel also looks at me with disgust. “Honey, I know you want to psych-yardie…”

“Are you seriously letting her getting away with threatening me like that?!”

“He’s your Dad, Jenny? Are you sure? Besides I never threaten, I promise! And I promise to make you pay for that remark, you buffoon!”

“Buffoon! Are you saying that I am stupid?!” I thunder, then really wish I hadn’t when Pearl just stares before slowly giving me the thumbs up!

“I think it would be best if the four of you went back to Hunter’s for the night.”

“Mom, you okay?” Pearl asks, looking at her with concern.

“Yeah, but go now please; take some food and go.” Jewel orders.

“Now just a minute, they are my…” Lindsay rails.

“Oh shut up, you silly old trout! They are a convenience to you. Four months! Four months I have known about Gus, and for all that time apart from his Dad, Hunter, his Grams and Gramps, where do you think he goes to let his heart out? Yep, his Uncle Emmett.” She pulls out some keys and hands them to Hunter. “You don’t have enough gas to get you back tomorrow. I will fill you up. That good for you?”

“I…”

“Please take them back. Please? Get them to talk about it, formulate a plan and come to us on Sunday, deal?”

“Mom, you are the best!” Pearl cries before flinging her arms around her. “Okay, let’s pack!”

Twenty silent minutes later, they are out the door.

“What just happened?!” Lindsay demands. “And whilst I don’t appreciate you calling me a silly old trout; I understand that it was in the heat of the moment…”

“Again, shut up, you silly old trout!” Jewel snarls. “Everyone that is not Brandon, Michael or Ben get out!”

MICHAEL

“Jewel, what is going on?!” I demand.

“Ems, you take Brian and Justin with you. I need to have a word with Michael. Show them the rabbits, prove your theory hmm?”

“Rabbits? What rabbits? When did you get rabbits?” Justin face lights up.

“Please take them to see Tonka and Beam, Ems, think they will be perfect for them. Brandon and Ben will catch you up, Brian, but right now people need to leave!”

“Jewel tell us what is going on?!” Ted exclaims as he gets up, he gestures for Mel and Lindsay to do the same, after a bit of reluctance from Lindsay, she does so, just as Jewel shakes her head and keeps glaring at me. “Okay, whatever it is, someone tell me first thing? Mel, you can stay at mine tonight. Lindsay…”

“We can drop her off.” Carl declares.

I can’t understand why everyone is obeying her all of a sudden!

“Justin, Emmett is the owner of a Flemish Giant Rabbit, called Sapphire and her kittens, Tonka, Beam, Doogie and Howser, currently looking for homes for two. Show him.” She orders, Emmett hands his phone to Brian, he has an expression on his face I have only seen once, which was when Gus was born.

“Which is which?!” He demands adjusting the screen, again I roll my eyes, and again the look that Jewel gives me makes me very uneasy.

“The small one is Beam right. Is he the runt?” Brian asks Emmett who nods. “What about the dogs, will they be okay with…”

“We have kittens, they will be fine.” Jewel grins.

“You’re taking the other two?” Ben frowns.

“No, I mean cat kittens. We got them at the same time. I love cats, she loves dogs.”

“Pitbulls are very unpredictable.” I advise.

“No they are not.” Jewel snipes. “Animals only behave the way they are taught or to defend themselves. Besides, your sermonising about their demonhood is moot since they have been asleep for the last hour!” She points to the corner of the diner where, as she said, the demon dogs are sound asleep.

BRIAN

The look of intense hatred on Jewel’s face has me hustling people out of the door. “Take him back to the house, Ems!” I order, but both blondes shake their heads. “Then be very quiet!” I declare, then lead them to the back of the diner and all three of us clamber onto the smoker roof and crowd around the vent.

JEWEL

I stare at Michael, wishing I could magic a bat into my hands. “So, did he tell you what he did, or just go away with you and say fuck all?”

“What are you on about?” Michael frowns.

“I finally got where I saw you before, or more accurately, heard you before, It is the voice. You left a message for him one time, your voice is very distinctive, like a drill bit, but with less finesse.”

“Jewel, what is this?!” Ben demands.

“You called him twice; once to arrange the date then again afterwards and left him a message telling him to forget the troubles with his frigid boyfriend to come to you, you would make it all better.”

“Who?!” Ben snaps.

“Ethan.” Even saying that name makes me heave. “He left his phone and most of his things in the apartment when he skipped out. He never had a passcode as he knew that Justin would never violate his privacy like that. Next time you talk to him, tell him Jewel wants word.”

“Jewel, who the hell is Ethan?!” Brandon growls.

“The ex who put Justin in the hospital for three months.”

“Hospital?!” Ben shouts.

“He was defending himself from his hopped up lunatic of an ex!” Michael screams. “He was attacking him!”

“Really?! How come the only broken bones, bruises, cuts and bites were on Justin? It is a little difficult to attack when you are tied to a radiator. Fuck alone knows what he would’ve done if I hadn't gotten there!”

“What was that?” Brandon demands as we hear a loud thud.

BACK IN THE DINER - TEN MINUTES LATER

EMMETT

“Careful, be careful! Don’t hit his head.” I order as I instruct Ben and Brandon who are helping a passed out Brian off the roof. Michael, of course, is long gone. Jewel has Justin, they are talking quietly. I step nearer so I can rescue her from his now notorious, to some, temper.

“He bit me where?” He demands.

“Your…”

“Oh for fuck sake! Why didn't you tell me?!”

“No, not there! Your butt, and by bite I mean, oh sweet mother of god, love bites, well that’s how they started.”

“Love bites? Why?” We both ask.

“You...you mean...we were…?” He gulps.

“Yep. Although he and Michael spoke in the restaurant. Seems he almost managed to use his dubious charm on you, but that stopped because he called him again. So you flipped out on him, ordered him to leave to go see his fuck buddy. And when you said leave, you meant leave never to come back.”

“How do you know all of this Jewel?” Ben scrubs his face.

“Because of this.” She pulls out a phone but before she can say anything about it there is a noise from the booth. Looks like Brian is starting to come around, he looks around the room.

“Where is Justin?!”

“Here. Am here. Come on, can you sit up?” He nods slowly and does so. “I am taking us back to Britin. He needs to rest and I think to speak to Daphne. I...”

“It was what made me run.” Brian almost whispers, we all go still. “He bit me, on my shoulder, still have the scar as he went down to the bone. So I hit him to get him off me. I hit him so hard I thought I killed him. My ex-dad, I thought I killed him.” He starts to cry, great heaving sobs the likes of which we have never seen. “That’s why I ran away. Kiki found me behind the dumpster and she took me in. It took weeks to find out that he was fine but of course he didn’t want me to come back, said he had hoped that I had been done away with.”

“You are a runaway?!” I gasp almost collapsing on the nearest seat.

“Yeah. And although I didn’t know it at the time I ran home.” Brian stands up and looks at Justin. “Speaking of home. Let’s go.”

We’ve not spoken since Emmett dropped us back here. We did call Daphne and she said she would come around first thing. “Justin? Do you?”

“I’m sorry, do I what? I can’t believe it was Michael that Ethan was fucking around with.”

“I think a double is called for.” He pulls out glasses then heads to the freezer. “I don't want ice, but do you?”

“No thanks, what are we drinking?” I ask as he rejoins me at the table with the bottle and glasses. “Ah, I have never had whisky before.” He pauses in his pouring looking shocked. “What’s wrong with that?”

“You really are quite vanilla, aren’t you? So you are having a single.” He slides the glass over, but resumes pouring when I glower at him.  “You know you should do that more often, you look very cute when you’re pouting.”

“I don't know what I am more pissed at, the fact that you think I am vanilla, that this is pouting, or the fact that you have more in your glass than me. Level us up!” He grins and pours some more. I check before nodding.

“So why did you let him off the fuckdate set up?” He questions.

I splutter, then use the tea cloth to mop my streaming eyes. “I didn’t let him off!” I object.

“So the love bites were from you?” He queries, but it is his tone that is starting to rankle.

“No, they weren’t obviously! Like she said, he used his dubious charm on me, and…”

“How long was it?” He plays with the rim of his glass.

“What do you mean?”

“Between then and before.”

“Before what?”

“Okay, let's do it your way. When was the last time you two made love?”

I feel chills run down my spine. “How…”

“Stud of Liberty Avenue as well as Dark Storm, remember? I could remind you of a particularly interesting conversation we had when you said you were getting...” He pauses, smirks slightly, then indicates that I should drink some more. “...so?”

“Eighteen months.” I mutter, blushing. Now he is spluttering. “We did other things.” I add quickly.

“Like?”

“How have we gotten to this conversation?!” I exclaim.

“Because we have. So, like what?”

“Hand jobs.” I mutter, draining the glass then reaching for the bottle, but he pours for me.

“And.”

“That’s it.”

“No rimming, no blowing, no…”

“No! God no!” I shudder.

“Okay, you look like you want to vomit. Guess he was not one for cleanliness?” I grimace before nodding. “So I don’t want you to panic or take this the wrong way, but have you had your health check, sexual I mean?”

“No. What would be the point? I haven’t had full sex for 18 months.”

“Because Michael has anal warts.” I slowly put my glass down. “Yeah. Ben doesn’t, so am figuring he got it from Ethan or someone else, but...”

“Oh, I see. So back at you. Why?”

“Did I faint, or when was the last time I had fucked someone?”

“Interesting you said had fucked when it comes to you but say made love when it came to me, why?”

“Fucked because I am a single guy and that’s what I do, I fuck. For you, well you thought you were in a relationship, so you would call whatever little you did making love.”

“We didn’t even kiss properly, just a chaste peck on his lips or cheek.” I snap angrily, his brows rise. “He had the freaking nerve to call me frigid!”

“He never kissed that mouth? What an idiot.”

“I am also not frigid!” I point out hotly.

“Just before you came here. He wasn’t bad.” He tops up his drink with a sigh, I slide my glass nearer. “As for the other; I told you all earlier, he was hitting me, but then he bit me, I just lost it and picked up a bottle, ironically of whisky, and smashed it over his head. There was so much blood and he wasn’t moving. I just grabbed what I could and ran.”

“Sorry.” I give him a small smile.

“Why?” He frowns.

“You must have been terrified.”

“Yep, but he was fine. He didn’t even report me missing. I was gone for three weeks before Kiki went to get the rest of my stuff.” He gives a soft smile. “She just took one look at me huddled behind the dumpster, ordered me into the diner and fed me, then took me back to her place. A week later, I was introduced to Debs, Carl, and Michael as her nephew. They never questioned it.”

“Why should they?”

“Because Kiki was an only child and a man.”

“But you said she.”

“Transvestite.”

“How old were you?” I ask.

“Ten. She was the first proper family I had.” He whispers.

“Where is she now?”

“Alleghany Cemetery. She died when I was 22.” He is just running his nail up and down the table top. “I miss her so much. God, I hate that she never got to know that Debs and Carl are my birth parents.” I don’t know when I moved, but now I am holding a weeping Brian as tightly as I can. I rub his back as his sobs ease. “I will go and see her to tell her.”

“I think that is a good idea.”

“And you need to make an appointment with my doctors.”

“Okay.” I go to step away, but he tightens his hold much like me wiggling my fingers when he was going to stop the massage. “Will you come with me for the results?”

“Sure, but right now I think we should go to bed. Separate ones.” He adds quickly.

“Yeah. Goodnight, Brian.”

“Goodnight, Justin.” We slowly part, our eyes trained on each other, and still within touching distance. “You really need to go, we're both very emotional, and…”

“He is an idiot.” I interrupt. “Because I am an excellent kisser, and it is one of my favourite things to do…” He goes to speak but I shake my head. “...but now is not the time for that.”

BRIAN

I am staring at the closed door five minutes after he has gone, I can still feel his warmth. I jump out of my skin when my phone rings. My shoulders slump when I see it is Lindsay, I put her on speaker.

“Is this going to be quick? I am…”

“Not really.” She sniffs, and I want to scream as this is her normal modus operandi and she thinks that people haven’t cottoned onto it. “Brian, what am I going to do?!”

“Do about what? You threatened to throw them out of your house, and you confiscated their phones because you weren’t getting your own way, so they did what any normal person who keeps being bullied would do; they kicked back.” She stops sniffing and clears her throat. “Is that it?”

“Why are you putting them up at Britin? Why not the loft? It is closer for all of…”

“Gus, as you know, was always going to live with me.” I head to the cupboard and pull out another bottle of whisky. “So the real question is about Mel and Jenny, and, more importantly, the cottage. Now that Justin has moved into the opposite wing, it is free, and…”

“He has moved in with you?! What on earth for?!”

“Because.” I reply topping up my glass.

“Because what?!” She demands.

“I am hanging up now and going to bed!” I snap as I carefully pour the whisky back in the bottle. She is really fucking me off, and the one thing I never do when I am annoyed is drink, reminds me too much of him.

“Wait, what about Michael? He is your brother, remember?” She’s starting to get shrill. “He’s resting, he’s in shock. He’s just found out…”

“That the man he had no problem cheating on Ben with is a psycho? Oh, poor baby.”

“Brian, have some compassion!” She seethes.

“I do! For people who deserve it, and neither of you are them! Now goodnight!”

EMMETT’S HOUSE - SAME TIME

LOUNGE

EMMETT

I frown at a grinning Jewel. “You’re not really going to do that to her, are you?”

“Yep.” She replies, having gotten off the phone with a now pouting Pearl.

“So what are you going to have? And you do realise that you are supposed to love, nurture and cherish our daughter.” I remonstrate, then frown again. “Do you reckon that I, no actually Justin, could persuade Brian to have one too?”

“Yeah, and I do, but she taught Jenny the sneaky way of calling the idiot a C-word; ergo, she needs to be punished for it. Think it is only right.”

“But it was…”

“Sneaky.” She interrupts, staring hard at me.

“Come on, Jewel.” I protest. “I could understand you getting your tattoo without her picking it out if she had told her to flat out say it, but she didn’t.” She rolls her eyes then spins her phone, trying not to smile. “Oh, you devil!” I heave a sigh of relief. “So which one is it?”

“This one.” She excitedly opens her photo reel. “After her, of course!”

“Oh now, that is beautiful! Where you are getting it done, and in that colour?”

“Not sure about the colour, and have no idea where. Some research is called for, which I shall put Pearl in charge of then tell her I am doing her favourite.” She takes a sip of brandy. “Hmm, that’s better. So why suggest a tattoo for Brian though?”

“I have often wondered why he rubbed his collarbone, always when stressed out and always keeps it covered. So if he has a nice something there, then maybe…”

“Yeah maybe.” She leans across and kisses my cheek. “He’s going to get the very best of you.”

“Who?”

“Drew, of course!” She laughs, and I blush.

BRITIN - SATURDAY MORNING

KITCHEN

DAPHNE

I look up as the door opens and Justin comes in. He looks exhausted. “Bad night’s sleep?” I ask, pouring some coffee as he nods. “Brian’s the same. Mark has made some breakfast that you must eat. Brian won’t be long.”

“Where is he?” He looks worried.

“Gone to get Tonka and Beam. Why? Did something happen after we spoke?”

“Yeah, but I think it is something that we both…” He begins before the arrival of a bunny-less Brian through the door. “...I thought Daphne said…”

“It is too early to take them. Next week we can.” He sighs. “I was looking forward to welcoming them to the barn.”

“So…” I start briskly. “...who wants to go first, and where do you want to sit?”

“Here is fine. He needs to eat.” Brian declares, nodding at the oven. With only a slight pout, Justin pulls out the breakfast of bacon, eggs and sausages, and his face lights up. “Not all of that is for you, you know, two of those sausages are mine!”

I watch them make their way around the kitchen quietly, and after a few bites, I decide to get this started. “So, Justin was saying before you came in that something happened after we spoke. Can you tell me what that was?”

“We admitted we’re attracted to each other.” Justin replies, looking at Brian for confirmation. He nods around a mouthful of sausage, I try not to smirk at the irony of that. “We more or less said it and came close to kissing, but stopped. I think we have to fix ourselves first, well, I know I do because…”

“We both do.” Brian interrupts, smirking at me because my mouth is moving but nothing is coming out. “And this is where you step in, Doc.”

“Well, I wasn’t expecting that!”

“I think it was when I found out you are Dark Storm.” Justin chuckles. “I was attracted to the presence of you online, but then…”

“Uh huh, me too, I looked forward to our talks more than going out and getting my dick sucked. Oh, and the congee did it for me, Blue Angel.”

“But we also have another problem.” Justin rolls his eyes as Brian helps himself to a piece of bacon. “Apart from you taking food off my plate!”

“And that would be?” I prompt, astonished by the calm way they are behaving as  if they are talking about the weather!

“We're both tops.” Brian states. This time Justin’s jaw drops.

“I could see why that might present a problem, but…” I am interrupted by Brian’s phone ringing. He looks at it then sends the call to voicemail with a scowl, then the back door knocks. We look at each other but say nothing.

“So, should I open it?” Justin whispers.

“Why not? You live here after all.” Brian drawls as he starts to help himself to more bacon, but changes his mind when Justin raises his fork. “I should imagine it is either Lindsay, Michael or both. She called last night, weeping about her bullying backfire, and going on about how I should show Michael compassion. Oh, and she’s not thrilled about Mel and Jenny moving into the cottage.”

“Maybe I should move back to the…”

“No, Justin, you are staying here. Them having a problem with you, Mel and Jenny living with me is exactly that: their problem.”

I am about to agree when I hear raised voices in the hallway. “I am his brother, I can be here if I want! Besides, I need to tell him something about his new lodger, and he’s not taking my calls!”

“He is busy…” Mark tries to explain, but as always when it comes to him, he doesn't listen to anything but what he wants to hear.  

“Then I will wait in the kitchen! Something smells good, you can set me up a plate of whatever it is.” Michael snaps before striding in and coming to a halt on seeing us. “Well, isn’t this cosy? So, want to explain yourself?”

“Nope.” Brian replies, rubbing his shoulder.

“Not you, I mean him. Didn’t take you long to get in here, did it? Fucked him as thanks yet?” Michael sneers.

“No, I don't fuck around indiscriminately, and…”

“You don’t fuck at all from all accounts!”  Michael sneers. “Ethan never has that problem with me. And it was you, you gave it to him!”

“Gave him what? Anal warts? No I didn’t! He and you have one thing in common: your lack of cleanliness. I can see the dirt under your nails from here!”

I smile as he puts his hands quickly in his pockets. “Now, Mr Horvath, my husband has already…”

“My surname is Grassi, I will never see that man as anything other than Carl  and they are welcome to their daddy. Are you two going to change your last names as a matter of interest? Which brings me to my other reasons for calling you, Brian, I am still coming to the party she and he are throwing, do you have a problem with that?”

“Personally, no, as I begin to dislike you more each day; but will check with Brandon and our folks. Trust me, if they have a problem, you are not coming.”

“You seem to forget that I was her son first, since I have been in her life longer than you!”

“The party is for them being reunited, nothing to do with you!” Justin explodes. “I can’t believe you three are related!”

“Her taste in men improved, albeit briefly.” Michael snipes. “So just to be sure, there is no chance of you trying to reconnect with Ethan again, is there?”

“You are welcome to him, birds of a nasty feather fucking together and all that!”

“Good. Try to be polite to him.” Michael smirks as he starts to walk out of the kitchen backwards. “I would hate for my new boyfriend to be made to feel unwelcome.”

BRIAN

I stop rubbing my shoulder as anger starts to consume me, but then I think of him and tamp it down.

“He will be most welcome, Michael!” I shout out. He comes back quickly. Everyone is looking at me in shock and confusion. “When he will promptly be arrested. Due to his injuries, Justin could not press charges against him, but now that he is fighting fit, we are going to change that! Justin, go and get changed and call Jewel. She will need to make a statement!”

“You would do that to your brother?” Michael bellows. “Why don't people want me to be happy?!”

“I want you to be happy, Michael, but not at the cost of Justin’s safety and happiness!” I grab his arm then propel him to the front door. “Don’t you have a psycho to warn?!” I snarl, then shove him out. His stumbling gives me an opportunity to slam the door, but him being him he comes back and kicks it a few times whilst swearing. Two minutes later, I can hear his car starting and wait for the sound to fade.

I turn my head at the throat being cleared and a concerned looking Daphne is behind me, I straighten to release the tension in my shoulders. “How’d that feel?”

“I’ll tell you when we get back.” I return, and head to the stairs. “You going to be…” I begin to call up but Justin trotting down the stairs looking determined, stops me. “Take it you are ready?”

“Fuck yeah. Jewel will stay with me, you come back and speak to Daphne, alright?”

“Yep, perfect.”

KITCHEN - FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER

DAPHNE

“It's started, hasn’t it? Them starting to heal, I mean.” Mark asks as we clear up the breakfast things. They’ve been gone for ten minutes. Brian forgot his phone so had to come back. “And how are you going to persuade them?”

“Yes it has. As for the bottoming, I am sure once they get past the kissing stage it will not be a problem!”

BRIAN’S CAR - 5 MINUTES LATER

BRIAN

Justin is very quiet and I am wondering if he is backing out of pressing charges. If he is, I will be disappointed but not angry. After all, it is not me that has to relive this. He catches my second glance and shakes his head. “What?”

“I am not backing out.”

“Good. So what’s with the silence?”

“What I told Daphne about…”

“About us being attracted to each other, or that we want to, now how would you put it ...?”

He rolls his eyes before grinning. “Have hot and juicy sex?”

“Hmm. Not make love or fuck, but hot and juicy sex, why say it that way?”

“Because of everything else we said.” He replies, and I nod. As we take the turn into the precinct car park, I see Jewel’s jeep. “How the hell did she get here so fast?”

“She learned to get to and from places very quickly…” He sighs.

“Because of her family?” I grimace.

“Yeah. She, like you, ran away. She ran when she found out that they lied about Emmett being dead. Can you imagine having such hatred that you come up with that to keep people from being friends?”

“No, to be honest I can’t. Sickening. Did she know she was pregnant when she ran?” I pull up next to her jeep.

“That’s one of the key reasons that she ran. She was afraid of what they would do to her or the baby.” I sigh then chuff a laugh. “What?”

I tug him to my side of the car, he snorts softly as he spots Pearl curled up in the front seat, fast asleep and sucking her thumb.

“She is a tungsten covered marshmallow, that kid.” I murmur, and try not to imagine how good his hair would feel running through my fingers.

“Yeah, she is.” He looks up at me, then we both zero in on each other’s lips.

“Umm, keep it PG, just a taste?”

“Yeah.” He replies, and adjusts himself so that he is sitting in my lap. “On three.”

“Three.”

His lips are soft, plump, and moist.  And what starts out chaste, begins to bloom into slow, deep, lip sucking, tongue twisting Frenching. And his hair feels great!

JUSTIN

I know I haven’t kissed in a while, and this could be a reaction to that, but oh my God, our tongues are moving as if they were made for each other. We don’t even clash teeth! We just know where to move to, and...woah! My heart almost stops as I realise what I am sitting on. He feels enormous! My heart almost pounds out of my chest; I harden some more at the thought of that inside me. We have to stop! I stroke his face as I lower my hands and he does the same. Just how are we so in sync? Soon we are just looking at each other, then we both start to smile.

“So much for PG.” I laugh.

“Yeah.” He shifts a little, I am left somewhat bereft. “So, statement?”

“Yes, I need to…” He strokes my lips looking at them intently. “...what?”

“Pure filth.” He taps my butt, I get back in my seat with a frown. “Those lips are made for pure, hot, and juicy filth.” He explains, then gets out of the car. “You coming?”

“Can you give me a minute?” I mutter, blushing.

“Sure. Gonna find Jewel, tell her you are here.”

He quickly strides away and I rest my head against the dashboard. “Down, boy, you cannot go make a statement with a raging hard on! Think about Michael and Ethan jacking each other off with their calloused hands and dirt encrusted...yeah, that’s done it!”

LINDSAY'S HOUSE - TWENTY MINUTES LATER

KITCHEN

MICHAEL

I have the place to myself. Lindsay sent me a text to say she has gone to Ted’s to speak to Mel. We are both furious about the cottage situation! If anyone should be living there, it should be one of us. Me, as his brother, or her as Gus’s mother. Mel could stay here, and that’s what she is going to try and argue.

However, right now I have a bigger problem. I need to speak to Ethan, but he is not returning my calls. I jump at the knocking on the door and go to open it. I scowl when I see Ben, and it turns into a frown when I see also Brandon coming down the path.

“What do you two want?”

“To come in, unless you want us to discuss this on the doorstep!” Ben snarls. I step back and they follow, with Brandon slamming the door so hard the glass cracks. “You are an unmitigated wanker, and that’s how you should've remained instead of causing Jenny unnecessary hurt!”

“Ben, Ben, this is what he is all about, all about himself and to hell with everyone else!” Brandon snipes. “You two roomies all settled now?”

“This has what to do with…” I fume, hating the way he is talking to me. How he has always talked to me.

“Owing to you being my brother, that makes her my niece, you dumbass!” He scowls around the room. “And another thing, how did you and your fellow soap dodger meet?”

“Soap dodger!” I exclaim. “How dare you come to my house, and…”

“Your house?!” Ben scoffs then shakes his head. “You’ve only been here a night and now it is yours? Does Lindsay know?”

“Where is the grasping silly old trout anyway?” Brandon laughs. “Seriously, silly old trout sounds so lame unless said with the viciousness that Jewel did.”

“She doesn't need to swear when she has that foul mouthed daughter to more than compensate for the crassness. Which reminds me, Jenny owes me an apology for calling me that!”

“I am sure she will do that on Monday…” Ben glares at me. “...you know, when you sign your rights away!”

“So what about you, daddy of the year? Or have you forgotten that you lied!”

“Only to you about the exact relationship! I said when we met, and I quote, we are as close as a father and son, and you said how sweet that is! I did not lie to him about wanting to be a father and you lied to her, to them! But then again that’s one of the few things you are good at!”

“Oh, for God…” I begin, only to be interrupted by my phone. I smirk and put it on speaker. “Hey, Ethan baby, where have you been? When are you coming down, can it be in a couple of weeks though? I want to come to see you first, because I think it is time for you to meet the family. After all, it has been eight months now.”

“Eight?” Brandon echoes.  

Oh, how I enjoy the hurt look on Ben‘s face. Well, if he had given me what I needed when I needed it, then we would still be together, wouldn’t we?

“Michael, sorry it took so long to come back to you, was in a meeting. How are you, my love?”

“Fine, just fine. Now can I start packing?”

“What’s to pack? After all, it is not as if we will be wearing much.” He snickers

“True, I just love being so free…”

“And filthy.”

“Filth...wait a minute, who was that?”

“Who was what? Oh that? Brandon, my half brother…”

“And new boyfriend of his ex. Look forward to seeing you at the party, Ethan!” I glare at the smug look on his face. “And unlike you two, we are clean both inside and out!”

“What is that supposed to mean?!” Ethan shouts.

“Well, according to your ex, Justin, outside you’re a soap dodger extraordinaire like your current lover…” Ben declares. “...and inside, you gave him anal warts!”

“My...Justin? Justin’s in Pittsburgh?! Why the hell is he in...hold a second, anal warts? I don’t have anal warts!”

“Well Michael does!” Brandon guffaws. “So if you didn’t give it to him, then who did?”

“Yes, Michael, care to explain that one?!” Ethan growls, and, briefly, I am relieved he is in California.

“Let’s go, Ben, my love, seems that the soap dodgers need some private time!”

“Michael! Michael, explain your fucking self right now!”

Brandon jerks his head and they head back down the hallway and out.

BEN

As I start to close the door, the pain I feel at his duplicity starts to ease when Ethan tells him in no uncertain terms that they are over. I would feel sorry for Ethan, as Michael tends to want the last word, as demonstrated just now, but I don’t. Fairly soon, I suspect payback will come his way.

“Sorry about that.” Brandon bumps my shoulder. “But his smugness was annoying.”

“Oh, that’s alright. Don’t know about you, but I really need a drink.” I sigh.

“Sure, mine okay?” He calls over the car. “That way when you are sucking the brandy from the bottle, nobody will judge you!”

“Just drive, doofus!”

TED’S CONDO - AN HOUR LATER

LOUNGE

LINDSAY

“Mel, please forgive me, it was said in the heat of the…”

“Moment!” She and Jenny retort.

“That’s the problem with you, Momma, it is always said no matter what moment!”

“Jenny, darling, I know you are…”

“You know shit!” Ted explodes. “Now get this and get this well! Mel and Jenny are going to live in the cottage. Gus is going to live in the barn. Michael is revoking his rights. Mel is giving him all his money back. You are getting the fuck out of my condo!”

“Ted!” I cry, tears streaming down my face. “I want to save my relationship…”

“Why?! You’ve done fuck all to nurture it! You have not given Mel a grain of support as she slogged her guts out, trying to make partner! I can count on both hands, and still not hit ten, the amount of times, I have witnessed you helping Jenny with her homework in these last few months. You are always telling her to go to an already overworked and overstretched Mel, who despite that, does so. I want to know why?”

“Why what?” I hiccup.

“Why you were using Brian’s loft? Don't give me bullcrap about meetings and keeping it safe, you only do things, actually you two only do things for you, so why?”

My mind races. “Those are the reasons!” I exclaim, but I can see he doesn't believe me, and the way that Mel and Jenny are beginning to look at me, there is doubt in their mind too. “I don’t know what else you think there is, but that is it!”

“Get out, Lindsay.” Ted orders. “We, a soon-to be-family, want to have a nice day, and you, as a silly old trout, are interfering with that!”

BRANDON’S HOUSE - TEN MINUTES LATER

BACK GARDEN

BEN

I try not to laugh, and fail, as Brandon hands me a bottle of brandy and two taped together straws.

“Start sucking.”

“Doofus.” I snicker, and take the glasses out of his hand instead.

“Such a gentleman.” He says as he sits down. “So very polite.”

“How is wanker polite?” I scoff.

“That is to him, and true, but you never swear out of context when I am around.”

I contemplate this then shrug. “Profanity has its place I guess.”

“Elephant question, why does it bother you still?”

“Because!” I snap, then sigh. “My previous boyfriend wasn’t faithful either, but at least he threw it in my face at every given opportunity. The fact that he hid it makes it worse.”

“I get it now.” He squeezes my shoulder.

BRANDON

I regard this gentle man. I have always admired the way he is with Jenny, and the fact that she is my niece, well that has ratcheted up the admiration points.

“Come on, let’s shoot some pool.” He declares as he stands up. “Hopefully, my next boyfriend is nicer than the last two. Gonna put these in the kitchen so we can commiserate your asskicking.” He gathers up the bottle and glasses and strides away.

“I am.” I mutter as I follow him. “Just need to work on the boyfriend part.”

BRITIN - EARLY EVENING

JUSTIN’S WING, LOUNGE

JUSTIN

“Come in!” I call back, hoping it is who I think it is.

“Hey. How’d it go?”

“Back at you. Want a Beam?” He raises his eyebrows. “The statement didn't take long and then Jewel wanted to go shopping. So, yes or no?”

“Yes.” He flops into the sofa and looks around the room. “Like what you have done, made it real homey. Aren’t you a lil Stewie Homemaker?”

“Aren't you thirsty?” I return holding the glasses hostage.

“Checkmate. The score is now 10-3 on my favour.” I chuckle at that, as the memory of our chess games sparks into my mind. “Thanks.” He sighs as he takes the glass. When I sit near to him, he frowns and pulls me closer. “Much better.” We sit in silence for a while before he clears his throat. “So, I told Daphne about the last beating before I ran away, and how you comforted me when I told you.”

“What were her thoughts?”

“She told me to ask you.” He looks uncertain, so I say nothing. “She said that you could provide the answer since you voiced the fear.”

“I did? When?” I sit up and turn his face towards me. “All I said was that you must have been terrified.”

“That’s what I said.” He grumbles. I shrug, then resume my position, resting against his shoulder. “But we will figure it out.”

“Yeah.” I murmur, and watch the flames of the fire I banked an hour ago flicker and dance. “Oh, I have done more pages of the magazine. You want to see them?”

He reaches for the blanket behind my head and puts it over us. “Yeah, later, okay?”

“Okay.”

LINDSAY’S COTTAGE - SAME TIME

LOUNGE

LYNETTE

I survey the interiors and marvel at its warmth, then grimace as I know this is not Lindsay, this is Mel. She may be a bulldyke stormtropper in court, but when it came to here and to Gus and Jenny, she is an earth mother compared to the Eiger Sanction that is my sister!

“Won’t be long, just have to make one phone call and I am all yours!” She trills, then closes the door between the lounge and the kitchen. I say nothing, just head to the wine cabinet and help myself to a large glass of red.

My throat catches as I spot the picture of all of us on the mantle. Oh, how mom and dad loved Gus and Jenny! And the family Sundays we had when they were alive were a joy, but since their deaths in that car accident just before they came back to the Pitts, we’ve not had one again. I miss my parents so much, especially dad and his words of wisdom. He would be able to guide me through this.

“Sorry about that, Linney!” Lindsay coos as she returns. “Work waits for nobody, not that you need to worry about that!” She helps herself to wine and joins me on the sofa. “So, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?”

“The surrogate I told you about is pregnant…” She splutters on her drink and goes pale. “...not for me! Let me get you a…”

“For goodness sake, Linney!” She coughs and waves away the tissues I was handing to her. “So now what happens?”

“Nothing. I only want her to carry, so we have to wait.”

“Oh.” She frowns. “Are you sure?”

“Yes, I am sure, I have waited this long, what's another year or so?”

“Okay, so what has happened with the samples?”

“I have fro…” I pause, then look hard at her. “...why did you react like that?”

“Like what?”

You looked horrified at the thought that she is pregnant for me. Why?”

“We hadn’t discussed the next stage, remember? I thought you had raced on ahead without consulting me, that's all.” She pats my hand and smiles. “How is Gregory, and what is in that beautifully wrapped thing?” She elbows me then points at the Tiffany bag. I put my wine down and place the bag in her lap. “For me?! Oh, Linney, what on earth for?!”

“Open it, then I will explain.” I sip my wine.

She takes her time unwrapping it before pulling out a pair of silk panties. “Uh, okay, I am at a loss, but they are beautiful. So why would you get me silk panties?”

“I didn't get them, but I was with you when you bought them. I remember them well, and the bra you got at the same time.”

She starts to giggle. “Oh yes! It was after cocktails and way too little food! I had to hide them for a while then move the money from my inheritance very quickly! I have never spent that much on underwear!” She stops giggling and looks at me. “Why do you have them?”

“Surely the question should be, why did my soon to be ex husband have them in the pocket of his jeans? The same jeans he wore to a business trip when you were both out of town?”