Chapter 1

Justin stepped off the plane and he took a deep breath of the fresh mountain air.  He had been looking forward to this trip for a long time.  He was spending three months alone in the cabin.  Well, not quite alone.  He kissed the little boy in his arms. They would be celebrating Aiden’s birthday here and then they would go back to Seattle.  Maybe he would figure out what he wanted to do by then.  

Aiden was such a good baby. Was he still a baby?  He was growing so fast. Justin picked up the car he had rented and strapped Aiden into his seat before loading their bags into the trunk.  Justin had given him a bottle just before the plane landed so he hoped he would sleep for the two hour ride or at least most of it. He kissed the little boy’s head and got on the road.

As he drove, his mind wandered back to the first time he took this trip.  That cold, snowy night when he met Brian. The four years they were together were probably the best and the worst of his life.  He remembered the day Brian proposed.  He had never been so happy but shortly after the wedding things started to spin out of control.  Even though Justin had worked for Kinnetik from the time they got together, after they got married and Justin became a partner, the stress between them built to a boiling point.  Brian treated him like all the other employees.  Justin would go to the office and Brian would tell him not to worry about anything.  Brian was working longer and longer hours as the company expanded but since he refused to give up any authority Justin saw him less and less. 

It was the night of their one year anniversary. Justin told Brian all he had to do was be home by 7:00 so he would have time to shower and they would be able to make their late reservation. 7:00 had come and gone.  At 7:15 Justin called to the office and he said he was on his way out the door. At 7:45,  Justin called  and there was no answer but minutes later a text came in asking if the reservation could be backed up half an hour.  By the time Brian arrived home at 10:30, the loft was empty.  Justin’s wedding ring was sitting on the counter but that was the only thing left of him.

For the next week, Brian tried to track him down but Justin  managed to avoid him. He found a lawyer and started the divorce procedure and by the end of the second week, Justin Taylor had a job offer in Seattle.  He was excited.  He should have a lot more time to stay at the cabin in Montana.  In fact, he had tried to get the cabin in the settlement but Brian refused to let him have it.  He also asked for custody of their dog, Gray Cub 2  GC2 for short but when he moved across the country he thought it was best to leave him with Brian. The divorce was finalized six months later.  They finally split the time at the cabin.  Usage of the place switched every 3 months.  Today was April 29th and the place was all his.  Well, officially the place was his May 1 but Brian would never stay until the last minute and he had to get away from Seattle.  

He had barely gotten his divorce papers when he had met Daklin. They met through one of Justin’s coworkers.  It was his first Thanksgiving away from family and she insisted he come to her place.  She was having her family over but she insisted there was always room for one more.  She said her brother was bringing his roommate so he wouldn’t be the only newcomer.  It had been a pleasant day and Daklin asked for his number before they went home.  Three months later they moved in together.

That was two years ago.  Daklin started talking about children almost immediately. Justin got sucked in.  He had wanted a child so badly when he was married to Brian but it had been put off and he figured it was all for the best since the marriage was short lived.  

Justin was pulled out of his thoughts when he heard Aiden fuss a bit in the backseat.  Justin pulled into an overgrown drive long enough to change a wet diaper and then, after looking around to make sure they were alone, he relieved himself also.  After letting Aiden kick and stretch a bit he put his little boy back in his carseat.  

He loved listening to Aiden coo and talk to himself.  His mind went back to the pregnancy and how excited Daklin and he were.  They had found a surrogate and she had gotten pregnant the first try.  Justin and Daklin had so much fun decorating the nursery but as the time got closer Justin was so wrapped up in going to birthing classes and last minute details he didn’t even notice the change in Daklin.  After Aiden arrived Daklin and Justin both doted on the baby but Justin had taken a leave of absence and soon Daklin seemed to be withdrawing from both of them. 

The first night he didn’t come home he called saying the meeting ended up dinner and drinks so he was going to sleep at the office. That was the first time.  Soon, once or twice a week Daklin didn’t make it home and then he stopped letting Justin know he wouldn’t be home.  

One night when Aiden was about six months old and Daklin was again gone overnight, Aiden woke up with a raging fever.  Justin called Daklin and another man answered his phone, reality hit him. He called a nurse hotline and after giving his son a cool bath and some acetaminophen Aiden fell asleep in his Daddy’s arms.  This time he wasn’t going anywhere.  When Daklin arrived home he found his clothes in garbage bags and new locks on the door.  Although Daklin made sounds of wanting time with Aiden, Justin quickly pointed out he had never had the baby by himself more than an hour and because he had been ‘so’ busy at work he had never managed to sign the paperwork he needed to sign to be a legal guardian and biologically Aiden was Justin’s and Justin may not be able to find love for himself but he was never going to have his son doubt how much he loved him.  

Justin slowed down and turned into the drive for the property.  He had to smile when the beautiful cabin came into view.  As he got closer he realized there was smoke coming from the chimney.  He had emailed the caretaker who looked after the place when they weren’t there so his first thought was he must have started a fire when he dropped off the supplies he had asked him to get but as he pulled around to the back of the cabin, Justin’s heart stopped.  He saw GC2 run toward the car.  If their dog was here it could only mean so was Brian.

Justin jumped out of the car and dropped to his knees.   GC rushed him and soon Justin was laying on the ground as the dog licked his face and yipped. “Oh, I have missed you, boy.” Justin worked to sit up after rolling around with the dog.  “Calm down.  Are you happy to see me?”

“Dadadada,” Aiden called from the open door of the car.

“Oh, GC I have someone to introduce you to.  I never thought you would get to meet him.  Sit,” when the pup heard the command he sat down as well behaved as he always was.  “Aiden, I have someone I would like you to meet.  Justin sat on the front seat of the car and said, “GC, come.”  The large dog walked over a little cautiously but when he got closer Justin guided Aiden’s small hand over to the dog and once he felt the fur he squealed in excitement and just like that they were best friends.  GC licked his face and the little boy giggled.  “I knew you two would get along well.  What are you doing here, boy? I am so glad to see you but…”

“What are you doing here?” just the sound of Brian’s voice sent a shiver running through him.  It had been nearly three years since he had laid eyes on Brian.  “You are two days early.  You don’t take possession until the 1st.” Brian tapped his leg and GC ran and sat at his heel. He looked Justin over from head to toe.  He had lost too much weight but he looked good.

“You’re right.  I’ll go back to town until then.” Justin opened the back door and started to strap his son back into the carseat.  Aiden cried and wrapped his arms around his daddy’s neck. He didn’t want to get back in the seat.  

“No no, Dada.”

Brian walked up behind Justin and put his hand on his shoulder, “You don’t have to leave. We were together for 3 years.  We should be able to survive two nights together.” Brian looked at Aiden, “And I don’t think this little guy wants to be in a car for another two hours.”

“That’s nice of you but…”

“Sunshine, stay.” Brian’s voice was low and rough. “I could use a little company after a month alone.  You know there is plenty of room.  You can use the upstairs bedroom and I will stay in the main room.”

“We can’t stay, but if you don’t mind, Aiden could use a little time to stretch.” He took him back out of the car.  

“What’s his name?”

“Aiden.” He  reached back in and grabbed a diaper bag.  

Brian reached over and took the bag from him. “Let me carry that.” He looked at the blond little boy and then to his father. He needed a way to keep him here. Just seeing him… “The place looks great, doesn’t it?  GC always loves it here.” GC rushed past into the house.

Justin walked into the cabin and paused.  He had a flood of memories rush over him.  This was the place they had met, the place they fell in love and now he was in the same place.  He had never felt more alone than he had the last six months and now he was in a lonely cabin with…

Aiden fussed.  Brian touched his soft hair, “What can I do to help?”

“Could you just throw a blanket on the floor so I can give Aiden a couple toys and he can just mess around a little while?”

Brian pulled a large quilt out and laid it on the floor.  He unzipped the bag and took out some toys, spreading them out. Justin set Aiden down and sat down on the floor by him and GC, who had become fascinated with the squirming human. Justin patted the spot next to him and the dog laid his big head on Justin’s thigh. Brian sat down on the other side of the dog. 

“He’s adorable. Where is….what’s his name, Drake?”

“Dacklin. We haven’t been together for over six months.  If I’m honest, we haven’t been together for nearly a year.”

“I’m sorry, Sunshine.  Do you want to talk about it?”

“No, It is obvious I am a loser in the love department but I ended up the winner here.” He smiled as Aiden pulled himself onto his daddy’s legs. He worked his way over to GC and then pulled himself onto the dog.  GC acted like he always had a child around.  He was gentle and tolerant. 

“You did, didn’t you. Justin…” Brian’s voice went soft but before he could say anything else, Justin stood and picked up Aiden.  

“I think you really need a dry diaper and then we will get out of your way so you can finish your time here.” Justin laid him on the sofa and pulled out a diaper. “We will just stay at that little inn down the road.  This is your time and you don’t want us…” Brian’s hand caressed his cheek.  Justin took a step away quickly.  Aiden started to roll off to get to his dad and Brian swooped him up before he could fall.

“And where do you think you are going, young man?” Brian pulled him close.  He took in a deep breath, inhaling the boy’s scent.   Why did babies always smell so good?

Justin snatched him away.  “Oh, baby boy, I’m sorry. We need to go….” Justin was flustered now. “He handed his son back to Brian and rushed down the hall to the bathroom.  When he rushed through the door and shut it, he remembered what  the place had looked like when they had arrived.  Now it was a spacious, modern room with a large tub and shower stall.  The shower ….how many times had they made love in that shower? He had to get out of here.  He quickly used the bathroom and then went back to the living room and quickly threw the toys in the diaper bag and then reached for Aiden who was sitting in Brian’s lap.

“Justin, seriously, you don’t need to leave.  It is crazy making him…”

“He’ll be fine.  We’re fine.  You will be out by the noon on the first?”

“Sunshine, please stay.”

“I can’t, Brian.  We just can’t.”  As he rushed to the door with his son, GC2 barked and tried to run after them.

“Sorry, GC. You are stuck with me. And I am glad you are here.” Brian reached down and scratched the dog’s ears as he watched the car go back down the  lane. Just as it moved out of sight there was a bright flash of lightning followed by a loud crash of thunder.  “Damn,” softly, Brian said, “Be careful, Sunshine.” His heart was in his throat.  The moment he saw him,  he remembered how much he still loved him and how he still ached for him.  Brian looked up at the sky and  he said to the pup at his side, “Let’s get in before it starts raining.”

Justin had only gotten a few miles down the country road when it started pouring. He slowed down and was thankful for good windshield wipers.  Aiden wasn’t happy and was crying in the back seat. He had gone less than 20 miles when he saw flashing lights ahead.  He slowed and then stopped.  A police officer in a yellow slicker came to his window.  

“Sir, where are you heading?” the officer asked.

“I was going to the little inn about fifteen miles down the road.  I can’t think of the name of it.”

“That’s not going to happen tonight for sure and it may be a few days.  The bridge across the creek has been washed out.  It has been raining up the mountain for some time and it won’t be stopping down here until morning at the earliest and then the bridge will need to be cleared to cross.  It is completely under water.”  Aiden was screaming now.  “Where are you coming from? Can you go back there?”

“Is there any place…”

“Sir, the only place around here would be the small church down the street but they really don’t   want anyone there because if the water comes up much more,  it will be evacuated, too.”

This mountain seemed to only have two extremes, pure joy or total disaster.  “Sure.” Justin said as the window went up and he carefully turned the car around.  “Aiden, baby, please stop crying.  I’m sorry.  I should have listened.” Justin started singing softly and as he maneuvered the car carefully back up the mountain side Aiden finally quieted down. It took twice as long to get back and even though he dreaded seeing Brian again, he was very happy to turn up the lane.  The temperature was dropping and the rain was turning into a late spring snow.  At least he knew his son would be safe here.  The car had barely stopped and Brian was by the door.  

“Pop the trunk. I’ll grab your bags.  You get Aiden into the warm house.”

Fifteen minutes later, Justin was dried off and was rocking with him as he drank a bottle.  It was past his dinner time but Justin knew he would eat better if he took a little nap first.  He had gotten so upset in the car he was too exhausted to eat right now.

Brian came over and handed him a cup of coffee.  After the first sip, Just knew Brian had laced it with something. “How did you know we would be back?” he asked as he took a sip.

“Once the storm started I listened to the police scanner like we used to do all the time. I heard the road had been washed out.  I hoped you wouldn’t be so bullheaded that you wouldn’t come back here.

“Fuck you, Brian.  I really don’t need your shit right now.”

“Whoa, Sunshine.  I’m sorry. I am sure that was a stressful ride. I was really worried. You know I’m a smartass when I am stressed.”

“When you’re stressed?” Justin had a slight smile when he said it.  “Thanks, by the way.  You have been nothing but gracious and I ….. I was ready to destress after what has gone on over the last year.”

Brian got up and took out the same quilt and this time left it folded in fourths and then walked over to Justin and gently lifted the now sleeping Aiden out of his arms and laid him on the makeshift bed and then covered him.  He made sure the fireplace was closed and then he softly said to GC, “You watch him while we make dinner.  You’re in charge.” As if he understood, the pup walked over to the corner of the quilt and laid next to Aiden separating him from the fireplace.

“I have missed that dog.  I’m really hungry.  Can I make you some dinner?”

“You don’t have to.  I can make us something,” Brian tried to offer.

“You know I like to cook and it is a way for me to destress. Did the food I order get delivered?”

“Ya, this morning it was dropped off.”

“So you knew I was going to arrive today?” Justin’s spine stiffened.

“No, well yes, I knew you were coming but I didn’t know you would be here today.”

Justin was quiet for a while as he started chopping onions, carrots, and potatoes. He threw them onto a baking sheet and, after drizzling a little oil over all of it he popped them in the oven.

Brian glanced in the living room, checking on Aiden and then he walked back to Justin.  “What can I do?”

“How are your peeling skills?”

“Peeling?”

“I was thinking baked apples for dessert would be really good.”

“What do I need to do?”

“Just take off most of the peel and then take out the core but don’t go through the bottom.”

They worked side by side in silence as Justin got the meat started and Brian finished the apples.  Justin tried to explain what to do next but when it wasn’t making sense to Brian, he stepped close to him and showed him how to stuff the apple with a few raisins and some butter.  “Then sprinkle it with cinnamon and we will finish it with a shot of whiskey. He handed the apple that was finished to Brian and then finished the second apple and set it in the pan with the first, he drizzled them with the whiskey.  Brian and Justin  both reached for the pan at the same time.  Brian’s hands rested over top of Justin’s.  He let go quickly but after Justin had set it in the oven, he turned and ran directly into Brian.

“Oh, sorry.” Justin looked up into Brian’s eyes.

“I’ve missed you, Sunshine.:” Brian gently touched his cheek. “These have been the worst three years of my….”  

GC barked softly and then he heard Aiden, “Dada?”

“I’m coming, son.”  Justin moved away from Brian.  “Are you ready for some dinner?”  When Justin reached for his boy he was shaking a bit. Damn, Brian still had that effect on him.  Even after three years…. 

Aiden reached up and patted Justin’s cheeks. “Dadada.”  Justin snuggled him close and Aiden gave him a sloppy kiss. 

“Well, Aid, we are going to have to get your chair out of its case.”

“Where is it? I can get it for you.” Brian offered. 

“I’m not sure where I stuck it.  Here,” he handed Aiden over to him and walked out of the room.  

Brian saw Aiden’s lower lip quiver.  “No, please don’t cry.  I don’t want your daddy to think I’m not father material.” Brian looked around the room.  Who the hell said that?  He had put Justin off when he mentioned having a baby.  If he had given into that they may still be together.   Aiden was whimpering a bit now.  “GC, come.” Brian hoped the dog would calm him and he was right.  As soon as Aiden saw him, he smiled. Brian sat on a chair so GC could rest his head on Aiden’s leg and Aiden patted his head.  

Brian bent and kissed the blonde head just as Justin walked around the corner.   His heart fluttered seeing Brian’s gentleness with his little boy.  “I found it.” He walked in with the chair that would hook on the edge of the table.  Aiden smiled up at him.  His first two teeth showed as he grinned.  

“Damn, but can you get any cuter than he is?” Brian commented as Justin got him in his seat.

“If you will stay there, I’ll get dinner.” Justin pulled the vegetables out of the oven and then the chicken.  He made two plates and then on a small plate added several bites of the soft potatoes and carrots. He also set a gravy boat down with chicken gravy to go on the meal.  Justin started cutting up pieces of the potatoes and carrots and, after blowing on them, he set them in front of his son.

Brian laughed as Aiden shoveled the food in his mouth.   “Sorry,” Justin apologized.  “We are starting to work on silverware but he is too tired tonight to make him try.”

“Hell, he has better manners than half my friends.” Brian looked into Justin’s eyes and swallowed hard. He wanted to move over the table and devour him. “Justin, I…”

“Brian, why don’t you try some of the gravy. I learned a trick living in Seattle that makes it better than anything I made in the past.”

“You’ve always been a great cook. If I think about the first time we were out here I would have starved to death.” Brian timed it out and as Justin reached for the gravy, Brian’s hand went over his.  He looked into his eyes, “Justin, why wouldn’t you respond to my messages?  I was an ass.  I know that now but I just wanted to talk to you.  I loved you and you just left me.  I told you I wasn’t husband material but you convinced me I was but then…”

Justin jerked his hand away.  “I can’t do this, Brian.  I just…. It has been a long day and soon I need to get Aiden down.  His schedule is all messed up.  Justin helped Aiden with a little more food and when he started to rub his eyes, Justin stood and took him out of the chair.  “I’m going to give him a bath.”

“Justin, you hardly ate.”

“I’ll heat it up later if I get hungry,” and with that he was gone.  

Brian cleaned up the kitchen and reminded himself to make Justin eat more when he came back.  He could see Justin had lost weight.  Although he was as gorgeous as ever, he looked tired and stressed. Who was the idiot he had been with that would let him get to this state. He heard Justin singing as he bathed his son and shortly after he heard the water drain and Justin moved through the living room and up the stairs.  GC followed them.  When Justin came down about ten minutes later, GC didn’t follow him.  

Brian glanced at the stairs and Justin said, “He is sleeping under the crib. He is such a great dog.  Once I decide where we are going to settle I will have to find him a dog of his own.”

“Oh, you aren’t planning on staying in Seattle?” Brian said as he walked into the kitchen and came back moments later with a plate of food and handed it to Justin.  “Eat.”

“Don’t start bossing me around.  We haven’t been married for three years and you know how well that went over when we were married.” Justin’s response was almost vicious.

“Whoa, Sunshine, I didn’t mean anything by that.”

“No, I’m sorry. You didn’t deserve that harsh response.  If it wasn’t for you, who knows where we would be tonight.”

“You know I would never turn you away.  In fact…”

“Please, Brian, can you just let it go tonight.  I am just too tired to deal with this. I’m getting a migraine.  Any word on this storm? I think the rain has stopped, at least for now.”

Brian got up and turned on the scanner.  “This is usually more accurate for up here than the TV is.  It is pretty easy to figure out from the deputies' conversations.” Justin dropped his head onto the back of the chair.  They listened to the banter on the radio in silence for several minutes,  Brian finally said, “It sounds like I’m going to be here for an extra day or so.  But don’t worry.  They are usually very quick on the repairs so as soon as the rain stops they will be fixing it.” Brian stood and took the plate off of his lap.  Justin reflexively grabbed for it, thinking it was sliding off, “Sunshine, it’s all good. I have it.” Brian laid a hand on his thin shoulder for a moment.  

“You don’t have to take care of me,” Justin said softly.  “I am used to doing it myself.”

“Justin, you could always take care of yourself but please let me help you. Do you have your migraine meds?”

“Ya, it’s in the bag I have on the counter in the kitchen.”  Justin swallowed the pills when Brian handed them to him. The longer he sat there the more tired he was getting but the pounding in his head dulled slightly.  He just laid his head back and tried to relax.

Brian walked to the bathroom and started filling the tub with water.  If he had to he would undress him and put him in the tub but he remembered it sometimes helped him relax which in turn helped the headache.  He lit some candles and then turned off the water.  Brian walked back to find Justin sleeping right where he had left him.  “Come on, Sunshine, I have a bath ready for you.”

Justin wrapped his arms around Brian’s neck, “A bath? Ya, a bath sounds good. Aiden, what if my baby needs me?”

“I will listen for him and he has his nanny up there with him.” The closeness of Justin had Brian’s heart both speeding up and aching.  Let’s get you in the tub.  I put the heater on so you stay in as long as you want.  It won’t get cold and if you need anything, just call. Can you manage alone?” Brian’s hand was on Justin’s lower back and the heat of it was seeping into Justin’s very soul.

Justin swayed toward him for just a moment and then he pulled himself together. “Yes, thank you. I’ll be fine.” With that he entered the bathroom and closed the door.  Justin managed to get undressed and sank into the scented water Brian had prepared.  He loved this tub.  They had spent extra when they remodeled to have a big soaking tub. It even had a bit of a pillow built in. Justin drifted off as he felt the relaxing water soak into his tired muscles and his mind drifted.  He saw Brian holding Aiden but no it wasn’t Aiden, it was Gus.  He had missed Gus so much after he left.  Brian’s son wasn’t a huge part of their lives.  Lindsay and Mel were great parents but he could never forget that he was Brian’s son and, even though he wouldn’t admit it,  Brian would do anything for that boy.  Gus…..Brian…...he loved them both.

Justin woke with a start.  Brian was standing over him. “Get out of here! What are you….”

“Calm down, Sunshine.  I was worried about you.  I have been knocking on the door for about 5 minutes and you didn’t respond.”

“Oh, the meds….I fell asleep I guess.  I was dreaming about Gus.”

“Gus?”

“Yes.  I’ve missed him. If you leave me alone, I’ll get out of here and….damn, I didn’t grab my robe.”

“I’ll grab mine.  You can use it tonight. Just get out and I will hand it to you.”  Brian tried to keep his eyes on Justin’s face but he couldn’t help but notice how thin he really was.  He would talk to him about that tomorrow, he thought as he laid a towel next to the tub and walked out. 

Moments after Brian had handed his robe to Justin, Justin walked out of the bathroom.  He squinted at the hallway light so Brian turned it off.  “Are you alright up there alone with Aiden?”

Justin had to smile at his kindness, “I have done it many times, but you’re sweet for being concerned.”

“I have so many questions but not for tonight.  If you need anything, call for me.  Or send GC down to get me.”

Justin started to protest as Brian put an arm around him, helping him up the stairs, but realized he could make it alone but it was much easier with him.

After getting Justin in bed, he went to his own room downstairs.  When the groceries had come yesterday, Brian postponed his flight knowing Justin would be here soon.  He had missed him so much.  There wasn’t a day since Justin left that he hadn’t thought about him.  He knew he had screwed up but when Justin left town two weeks after he moved out, Brian lost all hope.  He just wanted Justin to be happy.  He heard after the divorce he had started dating and then he heard Justin was going to be a father.  That was something he had always wanted. 

It was because of him that he had a real relationship with Gus.  In fact, Gus had spent two weeks up here with him the last two years.  He knew he couldn’t imagine not having a relationship with him now.  He was almost 10 now and had such a great personality.  He made him laugh so much. Gus loved spending time with GC and seemed to enjoy spending time with him, his dad.

Gus still asked about Justin.  It had hurt him when Justin had left and, although Gus never mentioned it, he knew Gus talked to him a few times a year.  Justin called Lindsay and Mel just so he could keep in touch with him.

When Justin insisted on leaving he was sure he had lost his chance but maybe the gods really did believe they should be together.  He wasn’t sure how but Justin was going to hear him out and when he left he had to know if there was any hope for the two of them.  He lay in the room they made love for the first time.  They had updated the cabin but this room, although larger still had the same feel as it did when they were stranded here for so long.  Eventually, Brian drifted off to sleep and dreamt of Justin, Aiden, Gus, and himself here at the cabin with the boys playing with GC.

The sun was barely peeking over the mountains when Justin heard Aiden start to fuss.  “I’m coming baby boy.” He sat up slowly waiting for the pain to hit.  There was still a dull pain but it wasn’t debilitating.  Brian knew exactly what he needed last night. The steaming bath with the essential oil he had put into the water along with the candle light was just what he needed.  Justin walked to the crib and lifted him out.  “Ooo, someone needs a fresh diaper.” He undressed the little boy and after changing his diaper put on a fresh sleeper.  He knew he would put him in a bath later but for now he knew breakfast came first.  Aiden liked a morning bottle right away and then in an hour or two, some eggs would be requested.  

After getting his bottle ready, Justin sat in the rocker with Aid and as he drank, Justin dropped his head backward.  It surprised him when he felt a wet nose on his hand.  “Hey, GC. Where did you go last night? I bet you came downstairs and guarded all of us.” He stroked the dog’s head.  “Or did you keep Brian company.”

“Dada!” Aiden said when he noticed the dog and sat up. Justin set him on the floor and wrapped his blanket around him. He looked at the fireplace.  He hoped it would warm up later today but overnight there had been a light snow so this morning it was chilly.  Soon there was a blazing fire going.  Justin laid on the floor between Aiden and the flames and gave him some toys to play with although he was more interested in the dog than the toys.

Brian stood in the hall watching the scene unfold.  This is what he wanted. If Gus was here his life would be complete. GC perked up and looked toward the hall.  Justin followed his gaze.

Justin tensed up just looking at him. Brian stood there naked from the waist up, hair still tousled from the night’s sleep. His skin was slightly flushed and the fire was no longer the main reason for the heat. 

“How are you feeling?” Brian’s raspy, morning voice sent a shiver down his spine and straight to his loins.  Damn, it had been a long time since he had that feeling.   “Justin, you Okay?”

“Oh, ya, sorry.  “I am not too bad.  I have a little residual headache but not bad at all. If I take it easy today, it will be gone completely and since I have a babysitter,” he patted GC, “I’ll be able to.”

“Have you had coffee?”  Brian stretched.

“No, I just got Aiden’s bottle and sat.”

“I’ll make a pot.” A few minutes later, he brought out two large mugs.  Justin sat up and leaned against the sofa and Brian sat on the floor, leaning against the opposite end.  

Justin took a sip of the rich liquid. “You always made a good cup of coffee.” 

Brian took a careful swallow and looked over at him. He knew what he wanted to say.  He knew what he wanted to do but he didn’t want to anger him.  He didn’t know where his heart was right now.

“Dada,” Aiden crawled over to Justin and pulled himself up on the sofa.  Justin quickly set the cup down so he didn’t get splashed with the hot liquid and hugged his son tightly but Aiden would have none of it.  He held onto the sofa and walked toward Brian.

“It won’t be long and you will be chasing him everywhere.”

“I know.” There was a bit of sadness in his voice.

Brian reached the length of the sofa and helped Aiden walk to him, “Sunshine, what happened?”

“What happened? You mean between you and me or between me and Daklin.  I don’t have the energy.  How is Gus? He turned 10 last fall, right?”

Brian’s face lit up thinking about his son. “He was here about a month ago.  He loves it here with GC.  He told me he had talked to you just before he visited.  It is so nice of you to keep in touch with him.”

“I love him.  I would love to see him.  It has been almost two years since Mel and Lindz visited me in Seattle.  Dak and I had been together for just a few months and we were so….”  Justin stood and Aiden clung to the side of the sofa when Justin tried to pick him up.  “Do you mind watching him while I make him breakfast?  I’ll make some for us while I’m at it.”

Brian wrapped his arm around Aiden. “I’ve got him.  Take your time.” As Justin worked at the stove he listened to Brian, “So, Aid, my man, tell me what your dad’s been up to.  Has he been seeing anyone? I mean if you could put in a good word for me. Is he coming back to Pittsburgh so I can woo him back to my bed.  He already has my heart.”

Justin rolled his eyes.  Well, maybe a night in bed with Brian was just what he needed to get his hormones back under control and then when Brian left for home, he would be able to rethink his life.  Just the thought of having sex with him made him smile.  That decided it.  He was going to sleep with Brian….hell, he was going to get fucked blind….and then he was sure he would be able to think straight and decide what to do with the rest of his life.  Brian Kinney had hurt him so he wouldn’t fall for his bullshit again but damn, the sex would be amazing and Brian would be gone in a day or two.  Then he would be able to think clearly again and he would be able to decide what is best for him and Aiden.  

“Bri,” Justin used the familiar name he had used while they were together, “Can you bring Aiden in?  Breakfast is ready.”

As Justin took Aiden, he made sure his hand brushed Brian’s arm.  “I am going to go grab a shirt.”

Justin’s fingers trailed down Brian’s chest.  Damn, he thought, all of the sudden I am not cold at all.  He wasn’t sure what Justin was doing right now.  He was being pretty obvious but Brian didn’t care.  He would take any chance there was to get Justin back.  He never stopped loving Justin and Aiden, he looked so much like his daddy.  He would love to have him in his life.  Maybe he could be the father he never was with Gus at that age.  Oh, Gus, he would be so excited to have Justin back and to have a brother.

As Brian walked back into the kitchen he thought to himself, Let the game begin!  

Chapter 2

Brian and Justin spent the day interacting, first very nonchalantly but as time went on they took every opportunity to touch. By the time Justin went upstairs to put Aiden down for his afternoon nap, followed by GC, who curled up under the crib as if he was on duty.  Justin looked in the mirror and ran his hand through his hair.  “GC, come let me know if he wakes up.” He knelt and patted the dog's big head.  He then took a deep breath and moved toward the stairs.  He knew he may be setting himself up for a lot of heartache again but in the meantime, he needed to find himself again.  He felt like when he left Brian he had left part of himself in Pittsburgh.  Maybe he could find himself again.  All he knew was he needed Brian and he needed him NOW.

Justin came down and looked for Brian. He wasn’t in the kitchen or the living room so Justin moved toward the bedroom.  Brian was in the bedroom watching the local weather on a small TV.  “Oh, hey, sounds like the water will be down by tomorrow and then it will be a couple more days for repairs if it isn’t worse than they expect.” 

“Sounds like you are anxious to get out of here.” Justin walked to the far side of the bed and sat down, acting interested in the screen but feeling the magnetic pull toward  Brian. Justin dramatically dropped back with  his arm draped over his eyes as if his headache was acting up.

“Your head still hurting?”

“A little I guess.” Justin moved his arm but left his eyes closed. 

“Come here.” Brian sat cross legged on the bed.  “Put your head in my lap and I will rub your temples.  That used to help.”

Justin tried not to act too excited but seconds later was laying with his eyes shut and Brian’s fingers massaged his temples and more of his head.  It was only moments after Brian’s hands moved through the soft hair that Justin felt his cock twitch under his head. 

“Bri, do you think…. I mean, I’m not ready to get back into a relationship but, oh fuck!  It’s been over a year since I have had sex. Brian, do you think… I just talking sex.”

“Ah, god, Justin…” he moved so the length of his body was pressed against him.  “But your headache, was that all fake?”

“No, last night I really had a migraine and this morning, well even now, there is still a little dull thudding but I’m a single dad.  Nothing gets in the way of that. I feel so guilty when I get them and of course I watch my boy but I can’t do as much when my balance is off from a severe headache.” Justin rolled toward him and looked him straight in the eye, “Brian, will you…”

Brian’s mouth descended onto Justin’s and within moments he had probed his tongue into Justin who met it with his own.  Justin rolled over and pinned Brian underneath him before Brian reversed it again.  He straddled Justin for a minute and began to unbutton Justin’s shirt.  He bent and kissed Justin’s chest as he bared more skin. When he got to the waist band he slid down a bit further and unzipped Justin’s fly and then tugged the jeans down climbing off the bed and pulled them the rest of the way off.  He then slowly began to tug off his briefs. Justin lifted his ass off the bed so he could get them off. As soon as Brian tossed them to the side he dropped his own pants to the floor and then yanked off his shirt. 

“God, Sunshine, I have missed you so much.” He moved between Justin’s legs and took him in his mouth. Justin arched.  The heat of Brian’s mouth was driving him to the brink much faster than he wanted it to.  Moments later Justin lost control and Brian swallowed all he could get and then he slipped on a condom and as Justin put a leg over to one side opening himself up for Brian as Brian pushed inward. Justin had almost forgotten how exquisite the pain was when he was entered.  Daklin wasn’t half the lover Brian was.  In fact he was the opposite of Brian in almost every way but his mind crashed back to reality as  Brian leaned forward and kissed him, claiming his full attention.  As Brian sped up, Justin was on the verge of cumming again. Together they both shatter into a million pieces and as the pieces came back together they intertwined as they had 10 years before when they made love in this same spot.

They lay in each other’s arms and soon Brian was dozing.  Justin thought back to Daklin.  He tried to remember what it was that attracted him to the man.  It was probably because he was the total opposite of Brian.  He was very attractive but not in the overtly sexual way Brian was.  He was kind and attentive in the beginning but by the time Aiden was on the way, Daklin realized he would no longer have Justin’s full attention so he found someone who could.  He remembered the conversation they had about that.  It was after Aiden was born and Justin confronted him with evidence he had found.  He asked Daklin what he was thinking would happen.

That’s when he realized how shallow Daklin really was.  He needed to be the center of everyone’s universe.  When everything was said and done Justin had asked him what he had been thinking and he admitted he thought it would be another person who would love him.  Justin looked over at Brian, laying naked next to him.  His hand began to skim down Brian’s body.  Even the texture of his skin felt familiar and it made him shiver at the pleasure that skin gave him.  Damn, maybe this was a stupid idea.  This is just sex.  You divorced him for a reason.  He was selfish and neglectful.  He didn’t make time for him, he would never make time with both of them. This had to just be sex. And DAMN that was still perfect.

Justin heard something but he wasn’t sure at first what it was.  Then he noticed GC at his side of the bed and he made a soft small yip.  He got up and followed him, naked, through the cabin and upstairs where Aiden stood in the crib. “Dadadada.”

“Thanks, GC.  Hey big guy, did you have a nice nap?” He kissed the little boy’s cheek. Aiden gave him a sloppy kiss on his nose and Justin laughed.  “Oh, Aid, I don’t care how great the sex is, I am not going to go back to someone who doesn’t give us the attention we deserve.”  He quickly changed his diaper and then left him sitting in the middle of the bed while he put on some clothes.  He would have to get his clothes from Brian’s room later.  Dropping on the bed with Aiden, he started to randomly chat with him.  “Aiden, I know I am going to make all kinds of mistakes as your dad but I promise you, I will do my best to always keep you safe.”

Aiden threw himself onto his stomach and Justin grunted.  Next thing he knew GC was on the bed with them and as the pup barked Aiden and Justin laughed as they played on the bed. They wrestled around and soon Justin had Aiden giggling so hard he had to stop to breath from time to time. 

Brian had watched Justin walk out the door and wanted to call him back.  He didn’t want the moment to end. He had forgotten how much better making love was to having sex. He ran his hand over his dick and just thinking about Justin had it twitching again.  His love for him hadn’t dwindled.  He had been going through the motions the last three years and now it was time to get him back.  He was sure he knew how to seal the deal.  If he could get Aiden to love him, Justin would come back.  He would do anything for his son and Brian would do anything for Justin.  How could he prove to Justin that he had changed? How could he show him, his family would be number one.  Hell, if he had to, he would sell the business if he knew that would get him back.

Brian dressed and quietly moved up the stairs. He saw GC react to his presence but Justin hadn’t noticed him yet.  The smiles on both the blondes’ faces made his heart skip a beat.  He just knew, deep down, this was his family. He needed them to be happy as much as he needed air to breath.

GC jumped off the bed and ran out into the hall where Brian was standing.  “Everything alright here?” Brian walked into the room and bent to kiss Justin and then was surprised when Aiden lifted his arms toward Brian and Brian scooped him up. The little boy gave him a kiss on his cheek before wrapping his arms around Brian’s neck.

Justin looked at the two people he loved the most in the world and he prayed he hadn’t made a stupid mistake.  If Brian stayed too long, this was going to be really difficult.  Two days.  He would be able to leave in two days and Brian had been here for some time.  He would be getting anxious to get back to work.  He would have three months to get Brian Kinney out of his system and to decide what he really wanted to do with his life.

“It looks like it has gotten to be very nice outside.  What do you say I get Aiden ready to play outside and maybe you can show me anything I should be watching out for.  Have you seen GC, the original one, around?”

“No, the caretaker said the wolf population took a hit last year and Gray Cub was old in terms of being a wolf in the wild so it is very likely he has died.  The last time we were here together….”

“I remember.  I saw him once after that but he was definitely no longer the leader of his pack.  He was alone, more than likely he had been ousted by a younger, stronger pack leader.  I always thought he remembered us.”

“Ya, once, I think it was the first time I was here without you, He came close to the cabin. I stood inside the screen door and talked to him.  I got the feeling he recognized me but he ran off when he heard his pack in the woods. And I have noticed GC2 is more relaxed when he is here this year so I get the feeling the wolves have moved a little further off.”

“You know if you wanted to leave GC2 here with us, I am sure the dog and Aid would love it.  We are going to Pittsburgh after this  to visit Mom and Molly so we could bring him back.”

As they talked Justin was putting on Aiden’s outside clothes and put on his boots knowing it would be muddy and now the boy was ready to go.  He knew this clothes meant he would be going outside.  GC seemed to get the idea, too, and rushed down the stairs and barked at the door. They all moved downstairs and as Justin got the carrier strapped on, Brian changed shoes, too.  Justin made sure he had his sunglasses to dim the light a bit but hoped the fresh air would do some good clearing out the rest of the migraine.  

When Brian reappeared he commented, “Why don’t you let me strap that thing on.  You are still getting over your headache.”

“That’s alright but if we decide to walk farther than I planned I will pass him on to you. When we get back he will want to stretch out here, too.”

“He is going to get all muddy,” Brian said as he straightened Aiden’s jacket.

Justin’s face lit up.  “Kids are supposed to get dirty and he loves to take a bath.” 

“I’m sorry you left me but this little guy….”

“Brian can we not talk about us.  I mean...how is Ted? Is he still working for you?”

“He does still work for us.  You know you still own half the business.”

“Well, I know I still get a hefty check every month.  I am not sure what I would have done without it while I took parental leave and then with the attorney fees to get full custody.”

“You know you could have asked for more if you needed it.”

“Brian, you’re my ex-husband.  I am not going to ask you to support me.  I left to … Sorry, we are not talking about us.”

“Ted, is an excellent chief financial officer.  He is also a good friend.  Nothing else has changed much other than it has grown and staff has almost doubled in the last couple years.  I thought about expanding to New York City but I decided to keep it in Pittsburgh.  I can expand a bit but, hell, I am getting close to 40.  You can ask Ted, I have been keeping my hours at the office close to 40 or 45 most weeks.  There are still weeks where it just doesn’t work but …” 

Brian stopped when Justin reached out and pointed.  GC was staying nearby but he was having a hard time staying where he was. He was dancing and yipping. Brian followed Justin’s finger and several yards ahead of them was a doe with a very new fawn.  Brian dropped to one knee and made GC sit.  He then helped direct Aiden where to look. He ended up pulling him out of his seat and held him.  “Do you see them? That’s a fawn.  No one knows yet if it will be a doe or a buck but his mom will take care of him as long as she should.  She will feed and protect her baby, just like your daddy does.” Brian was talking softly so he wouldn’t scare the doe.

Justin watched Brian interact with his son and he was feeling things he didn’t want to feel. Yes, Brian was showing all the good traits he had but, Justin reminded himself, Justin could remember all the bad as well. How did he know he really only worked 45 hours a week?  Getting burnt by Brian Kinney once was enough.  He had his son to worry about, too, but seeing him in Brian’s arms

Aiden made a noise that caught the doe’s attention so Brian and Justin backed off slowly so the new mama felt more comfortable. Brian kept Aiden in his arms until they were out of the woods and back in the clearing near the house.  GC took off like a shot.  He knew he was free to run in this area unless Brian called him back.  He started chasing a rabbit immediately but was soon tracking some other scent. 

“Why don’t you set  him down and if we both take a hand he will be so happy to walk.  Before we leave here, he will be going everywhere on his own.”

“I remember when Gus was this age.  I missed it, of course.  I do regret not having more interaction with him when he was this age.  I love that boy.  I know he isn’t mine but he will always be a part of me.”  Brian’s voice dropped off a bit.

“Brian, Gus knows you love him and he loves you.  When we talk, he is always talking about you.”

Brian laughed, “Probably because I told him to tell you that. Sunshine, I never wanted you to leave.  I tried to get in touch with you for weeks.  Even after you had moved I tried.  I bet you didn’t know I actually flew out to Seattle.  After I got there I knew I shouldn’t be there.  You were a grown man who had made up his own mind.”

“Brian, I tried to tell you that I… I needed you.  If you had only let me in. I didn’t want to be a partner on paper only.  I wanted to be a part of our company.  I wanted to work side by side with you.” Justin picked up Aiden and Brian helped take the pack off his back.  “We both played married well but neither of us actually did it well.”

“I always loved you, Sunshine.  I still do.” He stepped in front of Justin.  I need to know if this afternoon meant anything.  Before I let myself hope there is a chance, I need to hear it from you.”

“Brian, I don’t know how to answer that.  Hell, we know the chemistry has always been there and probably always be but that isn’t enough. I know I probably expected too much.  My dad was never there.  I just thought we had an agreement.  When you gave me half the company, I thought you actually wanted to be equals in every way.  Because of the money you give me every month I have been able to spend this last year with Aiden but, as much as I love him and would do anything for him, I need more.  I am not sure where that will take me yet. I am thinking about starting my own graphic design company.  Mom wants me home so she can see her grandson regularly and I would have Molly to help out from time to time.”

“Justin, I can give you a job at the…”

“Brian, it should be obvious that doesn’t work.  You and I can’t work together.”

“Justin, I have been thinking about expanding.  What if I, no we, expand by opening another  branch in Pittsburgh for graphic design.  We already have a lot of the equipment you would need and we could upgrade anything you like.  We have moved into a new building.  You could take over the baths office.”

“Whoa,  slow down.  I…” Aiden was starting to fuss.  The sun was getting low in the sky. “Ok, Aid.  I am sure you need a clean diaper and something to eat for dinner.” He looked at Brian, “We will continue this after he goes to bed tonight.”

Brian slipped his arm around Justin’s waist, “I was hoping we could spend that time….” he dropped a kiss on Aiden’s cheek but then his lips found Justin’s and he made it very clear what he hoped would happen later.

Justin moved away from him and rushed into the house.  Brian hung back a few moments.  He called GC to him.  “Let’s get you cleaned up, boy. You managed to get yourself really dirty. Brian put him in the shower stall he had put on the outside of the house for cases just like this.  He gave the dog a quick shower.  The water was warm and GC stood there enjoying the attention.  Once Brian had him rinsed off and the water off, he said, “Shake, ” and GC shakes off most of the water.  Brian then dried him off with a thick towel and opened the door.  They both walked in.  As was their routine when there was a fire burning, Brian pointed to the fireplace and said, “Down,” and GC curled up by the fire, ready for a nap after all the exercise.

Brian pulled out some ground beef that was in the refrigerator and went out to start the grill.  He threw some potatoes in the oven.  Justin came back to the kitchen with a freshened up Aiden.  Justin smiled when he saw Brian making patties for dinner.  He walked over and kissed his cheek.  “Thank you.  I would probably have skipped dinner if it was left to me.”  He pulled out two jars of baby food. He warmed up one of them and then, after getting Aiden settled he started to feed him.

“You’ve been doing that too much.  You have gotten too thin.”

“I am not too thin.  I may have dropped a couple pounds but….”

“Justin, you have lost more than a couple pounds.  You better eat while you are here because your mother is going to have a cow if you are this thin.”

“Oh, shit, I never thought about that. I have lost about twenty pounds and you’re right.  She will have a fit.  Aiden, maybe she won’t notice because she will be spending so much time spoiling you.”

“That could happen,” Brian kissed Aiden’s head. “Would you like me to start the burgers or do you want to eat after he is down for the night?”

“If you don’t mind waiting.  He will be ready for bed soon and I already cleaned him up for the day so he is ready for bed soon.” He gave Aiden the last bite of his dessert and then cleaned his face and fingers. “I’m going to read him a story and then bring him to bed so if you want to put the burgers on when I take him up, it should time out pretty well.”  

Before Justin could pick Aiden up, Brian wrapped his arms around him and kissed him. “Let me take care of you.  Let me take care of both of you.”

Justin turned out of his arms and picked up Aiden, “If you haven’t noticed, I don’t need someone to take care of us.”  Justin pushed passed him.

“Sunshine, that isn’t what I….”  Was he really mad or was he trying to rile him up so they could make up?  He didn’t know anymore.  Justin had him so confused.  He would do anything to get that man back but Justin was the only man that didn’t fall for his bullshit.  Complete transparency was never easy for him but with Justin, it was the only thing to do.

Justin snuggled his son as he read him a story but before the book was done, Aiden was sound asleep. “I love you, little man.” Justin kissed his cheek and laid him in the crib.  As Justin moved down the steps he met GC going up. He patted his head as he moved toward the bedroom and Justin continued downward. He wasn’t sure he was up to the conversation he was afraid Brian would want.  He just wanted to eat and then make love with him again.  They could talk tomorrow.

Brian had put on some soft jazz and was just coming in with a plate of burgers.  “I hope you don’t mind but I just heated up some vegetables to go with the burgers and baked potatoes.  Since I had time I grilled the potatoes to give them a little more flavor.”

“Thanks, Bri.  It smells wonderful.”  They sat and started eating. As Justin ate he started to smile.

“What are you thinking about?” Brian asked him.

“I was thinking about all the canned meat we ate while we were here.  We were lucky to have anything to eat but the options were so limited. I was really surprised you didn’t throw it at me sometimes.”

Brian reached across the table and squeezed his hand, “Sunshine, I would have died if it wasn’t for you, more than once. I wouldn’t have had to worry about food because I wouldn’t have made it here.”

“You don’t know that.”

“I do know that.  You got me here and you held me until I was warm enough to stop shaking. If I somehow had made it in here, I would have froze to death.  You got the generator running and figured out how to keep it running.  You found more food for us.”

Justin took a bite of the hamburger and they ate in silence for a few minutes. “I think you’ve become a better chef than you were seven years ago.”

“You spoiled me and showed me home cooked food is good.  My repertoire is still small but I have perfected a couple meals.”

Their eyes met and both stopped talking, again.  They ate in silence until they both finished. They stood in unison and when they met at the end of the table Justin reached up and touched Brian’s cheek, “Brian, I’m not sure this is smart but, when it comes to love I’ve always been impulsive.”  As he stretched up to claim Brian’s lips, Brian pulled him against the length of his body. Their hands moved everywhere as their mouths were joined harmoniously.  They soon were bare chested and Brian was leading him toward the bedroom.  

Before Brian’s lips claimed his again Justin spoke, “Brian, no matter how much I love you, it doesn’t mean we will get back together. I know I had some responsibility for our divorce but now I have to think of Aiden now and everything I do is what I think is best for him.  And even if we…”  Justin couldn’t talk anymore as Brian’s mouth skimmed down his neck.

“Sunshine, I love you and will do anything it takes to become a family.” Justin hadn’t even realized Brian had undone his fly and as his hand moved into Justin’s briefs and began to stroke Justin’s erection, the conversation was done for the time being.  

Once they laid down, naked, Justin took the lead. He started at the pulse point under Brian’s ear and followed his jaw line, dropping little kisses along the way.  He then trailed his tongue downward, exploring Brian’s chest, giving each nipple attention before moving lower and then he focused on his navel and when Brian began to squirm, he followed the glory trail stopping just above Brian’s penis.  He moved so he laid between Brian’s legs and trailed his tongue up his inner thighs.  Brian’s cock was so hard, Justin could see the precum glistening on it’s tip.  And as he deliberately touched the tip with his tongue to moisture, Brian groaned.  Justin grabbed a condom off the nightstand and slowly and deliberately slipped it on and then, posing himself above the erection and as Brian grabbed his hips  Justin let Brian guide him downward and as he felt Brian spread him open, he arched.  There would never be anyone else who could make him feel like Brian did.

Brian had lost all awareness of reality.  The only thing he knew was he was with Justin. No matter how many men he had been with, Justin was the only one who truly touched him.  He knew Justin was the only one who ever would.  He needed him in his life.  As Justin dropped forward and kissed Brian, they both climaxed. Brian wrapped his arms around him tightly holding him against his sperm covered torso. Justin was in no hurry to move.  He absorbed the warmth of Brian’s body and when Brian flipped them both over as he slipped out of him. He managed to flip Justin over and began to explore. He nipped, kissed, and licked his way downward and when he reached those perfect cheeks, he drug his tongue between them and as his tongue began to probe his somewhat tender opening he again lost control and added more cum to the sheet.  

They moved into each other’s arms and after a few minutes, Brian had to ask, “Justin, was it like that with Ducklin?”

Justin had to smile, “Daklin did not have your skills.  He also didn’t have the amount of experience you have.”

“In other words, he wasn’t as much of a whore as I am.”

“Brian, that would mean money exchanged hands.  Unless you aren’t telling me something about the last 3 years, you have never gotten paid for sex.”

“True, but to be honest, I have paid for it regularly in the last three years.”

Justin propped himself up on one elbow and looked down at him, “Brian, you could have your pick of a hundred men.  Why are you paying for it?”

“I knew none of it was going to mean anything and I didn’t want anyone to think there was a chance for anything more.”

“But, Bri, why didn’t you look for a new relationship?”

“Sunshine, there was no one who could replace you or even make me forget you.” Brian rolled so Justin lay flat on his back and said, “I knew I would never love another man like I love you.” Brian lowered his mouth to Justin’s and then said, “Come back to me, Justin.  I will do anything you ask if you just come back.”

Justin didn’t respond for several moments and when he did, he had changed the subject.  “I should go upstairs.  I don’t like being this far from Aiden with no monitor.”

“I don’t want you to…”

“I didn’t say you couldn’t come with me.  And those sheets aren’t sticky.  We will wash these in the morning.”

“We may have to wash those too.” Brian stood and offered his hand to Justin who slipped out of the bed.

“Let’s rinse off before we get in my bed.  I don’t mind feeling sticky when I am on sticky sheets anyway but…’

Brian grabbed his robe and led Justin into the bathroom.  After a quick shower and drying off, Justin led the way upstairs to the bedroom. Justin stopped and looked down at his sleeping son and Brian slipped his arms around him and kissed his neck.  He whispered, “He is so perfect.  How did Devin let him go?”

“Daklin.” He reached down and pulled the blanket up a little bit and brushed his cheek. “I don’t want to talk about him.” Justin walked to the far side of the bed and got in. He felt Brian get in and then felt Brian’s arm drape over him and pull him close.      

“He was a total idiot to let you go.”  He kissed his shoulder blade, “I love you, Sunshine.”

Justin woke up to find the sun up and Brian and Aiden were gone.  For a split second Justin panicked.  He grabbed a robe and rushed downstairs to find Aiden sitting on Brian’s lap as Brian fed him scrambled eggs.  Justin lifted him up and hugged him close. Aiden began to riggle, trying to loosen the grip his dad had on him.  He then started to reach toward Brian and his breakfast.

“Sunshine,” Brian stood and gently touched Justin’s shoulder.  “I’m sorry if I scared you. You were sleeping so soundly and I was awake so I thought I would get the big guy some breakfast, after changing his diaper, of course.”

Justin took a deep, calming breath and let Brian take Aiden again so he could continue his breakfast. Justin poured a big cup of coffee for himself and walked out of the kitchen with it, not saying a word. When Brian finished feeding Aiden, he walked into the living room  with him and set him on the floor with some of his toys and then pointed to GC who moved and sat next to Aiden. He then moved over to Justin and sat on his heels next to the chair.  

“Sunshine, am I missing something? I didn’t know that would upset you.  I was just trying to let you get some rest.” He saw the mug of coffee shaking in his hands and gently took it from him and after setting it on the table next to the chair, he reached  for Justin’s hands. “I know you haven’t seen me in three years but I also know you trust me. You know I would never harm this little guy.”

Justin leaned forward and he let Brian wrap his arms around him. Brian could feel the trembling.  “Justin, what is it?” He kissed his cheek.

“When we were leaving the courthouse after I won full custody of Aiden, Daklin threatened to come take him. I didn’t really think he would but when Aiden was gone I just freaked.”

“You didn’t tell me that.  Does he know you are here?”

“I didn’t talk to him after the last day in court but I know he could find out. I didn’t ask for it but he is supposed to pay me a lump sum even though I said I didn’t want it.  The judge insisted.  It was Dak’s fault.  He let it slip that he was the one that wanted a child so badly. When the judge heard that and that he had deserted Aiden, he nailed him to the wall.  Anything he gives me will go toward a college fund.” Brian felt little fingers grab onto his waistband and a tug as Aiden stood up and then began to bounce.

Justin had to smile at his son.  “Hey, big guy.” Justin picked him up from behind Brian and lifted him over Brian’s head and into his lap.  “I know Uncle Brian is a great babysitter.  I used to help him take care of his boy. I’m sorry I hugged you too tight.” Aiden kissed his dad and then wiggled to get back on the floor as he pointed at the doggie. Brian gently lifted him off his lap.

“Let me warm up your coffee for you.” While Brian was in the kitchen he couldn’t help but think he didn’t want to leave Justin and Aiden here alone. Maybe he could convince him to let him stay for a few more nights or weeks.  He would bring it up later.

Brian brought Justin’s mug back to him and had refilled his own.  “Let’s see if there is any  news about the river.” Brian turned on the TV and they both drank their coffee and watched the local police department discuss repairs on the local roads. Once the report had finished Brian looked at Justin, “Sounds like I will be here the rest of the week. Do you mind?”

“You know I don’t. I didn’t plan on you being here but I….I didn’t realize how much I missed you. Oh, hell, yes I did.  I just still wonder if it is a good idea.” Justin stood and sat next to Brian on the sofa helping Aiden stand as he did so. Aiden hung onto Justin’s legs as Brian put his arm around Justin’s shoulder. He leaned and kissed Justin’s temple. “You make it so hard for me to think clearly.”Justin smiled at him. “When we are back in the real world ….. What am I saying.  I am not even sure if I am going to stay in Pittsburgh.  I need to see what is best for Aiden and me.  Your offer to use the old Kinnetik office sounds really good but I need to take this slowly.  I need to think everything through.  I need to find someone to help me figure out the financials.  I…”

Brian kissed him.  “I will not pressure you and I will help in any way I can.  I am sure Ted knows someone who can help you with the numbers and you own that office as much as I do.”

“And if I decide to stay in Pittsburgh, that doesn’t mean you and I will…. We need to resolve a few things before we go further.

“Does that mean you will give me a chance to prove to you I have changed?”

Aiden dropped on his but and crawled over to GC and the dog licked his face. Justin had to smile at the dog’s reaction. “Brian, I want to make a home for Aiden.  He needs a backyard.  He obviously needs a dog.” He smiled at his boy now napping on GC.

“I don’t think GC will even come back home with me.  He is obviously a dog who needs a boy.”

“Brian, we are not taking your dog.”

“How about sharing him for a while? If you cast me aside, you can get your own dog but if I can convince you to take me back he will be part of our family.”

Justin turned and straddled Brian, “I’m tired of talking.  I just want to play a bit.”

“Oh, god, yes.” Brian carefully flipped him over onto the sofa and as the little boy slept on the floor near them with his dog watching over him, Brian and Justin continued to reacquaint themselves with each other.

The remainder of the week went quickly and then Brian extended his stay for an additional week but then Brian couldn’t put off his return any longer.  The last night after dinner, Brian and Justin sat on the floor with Aiden going back and forth between them.  He pulled himself up by the sofa and Brian reached out and the little boy hurled himself into Brian’s arms.  Brian held him close for a second and Justin saw the look on Brian’s face.  He saw a softness he had only seen a few times when Brian was with Gus.  

Brian helped Aiden stand holding onto his fingers and as Justin held out his arms, Aiden bravely let go of Brian’s fingers and took the steps between them before falling into Justin’s arms, giggling.  Justin kissed Aiden and then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw Brian wiping his eyes as Justin blinked away his own tears. 

Soon Aiden was in bed, having worn himself out practicing his steps. When Justin came down, Brian had poured them each a glass of wine.  Justin dropped down next to him and took one of the glasses.

“Was that amazing or what? Our….my boy is walking.” Justin wished he hadn’t said that.  He didn’t want to give Brian false hope but it had been so nice the last couple weeks to have someone to coparent with.  Daklin had never done half as much as Brian had.  

“Sunshine, when are you coming to Pittsburgh?”

“Somewhere around the end of July.  I don’t have an exact date yet.”

“I will miss you.” Brian kissed him gently. They sat in silence for several minutes sipping wine and watching the flames in the fireplace.

They finished their wine and walked back to the bedroom. They undressed each other and soon were in bed where they made love slowly and thoroughly.  As Justin curled up next to Brian, thinking Brian was asleep, he said softly, “I love you, Brian Kinney.”

Next to him, Brian smiled and internally said, I love you, too, Justin Taylor.

When Justin woke up in the morning, Brian was gone.  There was a note on his pillow.  

‘My Darling Sunshine, 

I received a text that my flight was moved up so I had to be at the airport three hours earlier than planned.  I wanted to wake you up and make love to you one more time but that wasn’t fair to you.  Aiden keeps you so busy.  

I hope you know how much I have fallen in love with that little boy of yours.  I really hope that you will consider letting me parent with you.  I promise I will be the father and the husband I wasn’t the first time around.

I will call you when I land in Pittsburgh. 

I love you, Justin.  Please let me prove to you that I have changed and although I can’t promise I will be perfect, I will do my best.

All my love, 

Brian

Justin laid his head on Brian’s pillow and took a deep breath, still smelling Brian’s scent and realized he had a lot of thinking to do in the next ten weeks. Could he really be without him for ten weeks?  Maybe that would be the true test of how much he really did need him in his life.

Chapter 3

Brian sat in first class.  He hoped he had made the right decision. He wanted to wake Justin up and make love to him but he left him sleep and slipped out without disturbing him.  Before he even boarded the plane, he started his preparations. He had Ted checking into some things for him and as he settled in for the long flight he tried to get back into work mode but no matter what he read his favorite blondes flashed in his mind.  He knew he had missed him but he had forgotten how much he really loved that man. And Aiden, could a little boy get sweeter or more beautiful.  Brian finally closed his computer and closed his eyes to take a nap. As he drifted off to sleep his mind went to his family.  They had to be his family.

Justin couldn’t believe how quiet the cabin was without Brian.  Several times throughout the first day he turned to talk to Brian only to remember he had gone home.   Aiden was looking for him, too. He crawled around the couch several times, followed by GC, but eventually stopped at Justin’s feet and pulled himself up. “Dadadada,” he reached up.

“I know, I miss him, too.  I wish I knew that he really has changed or that he would continue to feel that way. He is beautiful, isn’t he? I had forgotten how beautiful he really was. Do you think…”  Aiden started patting his cheeks and then he leaned forward to kiss him,

“Dadadada,” Aiden said with conviction.

“Alright, you’re right.  Let’s go get some fresh air.” 

Ted met Brian at the airport.  “It’s about time you got back to work.” Ted patted Brian on his back. Once they got in the car, Ted continued, “So Justin showed up? How is he? How does he look?”

“Are you seriously asking how Justin Taylor looks? He is gorgeous as ever and his little boy….god, Aiden is perfect. He is so like his daddy and he is just so sweet.  I miss him already,” Brian said as his voice drifted off.

“And you left GC? Does that mean Justin is bringing him back….that’s what the email was about.”

“Yes, I didn’t want to call Jenn for this.  Did you call her friend to help me?” Brian asked as they sped down the road.

“Yes,  you have a meeting with him tomorrow morning but I gave him your requirements and he will be emailing you some ideas.  You should have them by the end of the day.”

“Ted, this has to be perfect.  I need to show him that I have changed, that I can be the husband and father he wants to be with.”

Ted glanced his way, “Brian, I know you have changed and I will be the first to tell him.  Did you tell him about the nonprofit you started?”

“Ted, I don’t want people to tell him I’ve changed.  I want him to see it. When he left…” Brian stopped talking.

“I was angry with him when he left you.   I know you weren’t the perfect husband but no one is.  You loved him and he knew that.”

“Yes, he did but I didn’t prioritise.  Rather than bringing him in at work, I pushed him away.  He was supposed to be my partner in every way.  That might have been a mistake.  Maybe he needed his own business.  That’s what he is going to do now.  I am hoping he will decide to start it in the old office.  He wants to focus on graphic design which would overlap with my advertising.  For the clients that want a more detailed design, Sunshine can assist.  It will stay in the family. I hope he will take on the designer I hired.  She is good but young and needs guidance.  I think she will be a great assistant for him.”

“Brian, can I make a suggestion?” Brian nodded.  “Don’t rush this on him?  Let him make the decisions. If he asks for suggestions or help  then give it to him.”

“Oh, that’s right, do you have anyone in your line of work that we can trust to help with his finances?  This is his idea,” Brian stated at the end of the question.

“I know a few guys.  Let me check if any of them are looking for a new client.” 

“Thanks, Ted.”  

The two men caught up on what was going on at the office the  remainder of the ride.  By the time they pulled into the underground garage, Brian was actually anxious to get to work.  His life was looking brighter than it had in a long time.

Brian worked a couple hours before he needed to leave Kinnetik.  He had to make a stop before going home and looking for the email Ted promised him.  He drove to Liberty Avenue and stopped at the two story house about two blocks from the diner.  As Brian reached for the doorknob, the door flew open and two young men rushed out.

“Oh sorry, Mr. Kinney.  Welcome back.”

“Wow, Josh, you look great!”

“Thanks.  I’m a lot better. Oh, this is Greg.  He moved in about two weeks ago.  Greg, this is Brian.  He is the owner….sorry, he is one of the supporters of ‘A Safe Place to Lay’.

The young man didn’t say anything but smiled and nodded at Brian.  As the boys walked away, Brian had to smile when he heard Greg say, “He’s hot for an old guy.  Do you think he would do me?”

“Na, nothing against you.  He is a legend on Liberty but I don’t think he ever trolled the avenue but that’s because he never had to pay for it.”

The last part drifted off as Brian went inside. An hour later Brian walked out.  As he drove off he thought about the program he had helped start.  The house was just what the name said.  There was room for up to 10 teenage boys. They could stay there free as long as they did a few chores a week and signed a waiver that they could stay there as long as they needed to and they would get help finding a job and if they wanted to go to college there were scholarships and grants they could get help applying for.  They had already had eight young men that had gone to college and had completed or were working on their degrees.  Brian stopped by a couple times a week to meet any new boys and to check if anything else was needed for the program.

When Brian arrived at the loft he ate the Thai he had bought on the way home and checked his email while he ate.  He found the email he was looking for and started looking at pictures.   This is how the next two weeks repeated themselves.  He would go to work and then stop by The Place or go straight home to look at the new email and finally at the end of the second week Brian opened the pictures and shouted, “Yes!”  He picked up the phone and called the real estate agent.

“Mr. Kinney, was I right? The one I sent you tonight.  I know it needs some work but it has the land you wanted and the house will just need to be updated.  I am sure the kitchen and bathrooms will need renovation but the actual plumbing is in good shape.  The electrical was redone a few years ago so it is all superficial.”

“Can we go look at it in the morning?” Brian asked.

“Sure, if you can make it early, about 8:00.  I have another commitment at 10 but if we go separately, you could spend a little more time in the area after I have to leave.”

Brian got the directions and before he hung up the agent said one more thing, “Oh, and Mr. Kinney?”

“Yes.”

“The whole property is fenced in so it is perfect for a boy and his dog.”

By 10:00 am Brian was waiting for a contractor to meet him at the new house he had just made an unbeatable offer on. By noon, he was on his way back to the loft.  He needed to talk to Sunshine.  He wasn’t going to tell him the news just yet but he still wanted to hear his voice.   They had talked several times, usually very late at night when Justin had put Aiden down for the night.  The time difference made it difficult for them to connect every day.  

Brian called Justin as soon as he was home.  He was excited because he knew Aid would be awake and Justin said he would do a video call so he could talk to Aiden too.

“Hey, Sunshine.”  Brian’s stomach fluttered seeing Justin’s smiling face.  

“Hi Brian.  Someone wants to talk to you.”

Aiden’s beautiful face appeared and he babbled for several moments as if he was telling Brian a story.  Brian nodded his head and responded as if he understood every word and then both Brian and Justin laughed.

“You are looking good, Justin.  You look more relaxed and, if I’m not mistaken, you have put on a couple pounds.”

“I think I have.  And yes, I am relaxed.  That friend of Ted has helped me look at some business options.  I think I will be able to make a go of it.  He said that the service I want to offer is in demand right now.”

“He is right.  I hired someone to help with that at Kinnetik but, although she is very good, she needs someone to take the lead.  I was thinking if I start passing those customers to you, maybe I’ll have to let her go.  She’s good but I don’t think she will be happy doing anything else.”  As they talked, Justin let Brian watch Aiden get around the room and he could see he was now taking a few more independent steps here and there.

“So what you are saying is you have someone hired for me to hire from you?”

“Of course you don’t have to but she is very good.  Sonya has a lot of talent but not a lot of experience.”

“I’ll talk to her once I get to that point.” Justin turned the phone so he could see Brian.  “Aiden misses you.”

“How about Aiden’s daddy?”

“You know I miss you but it doesn’t matter how much I miss you, it doesn’t mean we are meant to be together.” Brian opened his mouth but Justin interrupted him before he could start to talk. “But I am willing to wait and see what happens”

“That is the best I can expect.  I love you, Justin.  I love Aiden.  I was thinking, maybe I could fly out for a weekend.”

“Brian, I’d rather you didn’t.  As much as I want to kiss those lips and…” Justin shivered from the thought of what Brian could do to him. “I want this time.  Oh, GC found a skunk the other day…”

A half hour later they said goodbye.  Brian wasn’t sure how he would survive the rest of the separation but he definitely had things to keep him busy.  

Justin sat on the porch with the door open.  GC laid on the floor with his head resting on Justin’s foot.  Next to him sat a baby monitor.  He bought one after Brian left, realizing he enjoyed having GC with him when he didn’t have Brian to talk to so it had been the routine that GC would wait until Aiden was asleep and then he would come down and join Justin on the porch.  The dog stretched and sat up, putting his head on Justin’s knee.

“What do you think, boy? Has he really changed? You should know, you live with him. He told me there hasn’t been anyone else.  Has someone been around a lot?”  GC made a little yip and looked up into Justin’s eyes.  “Oh, GC, I just don’t know.  I can’t risk doing anything that could end up hurting Aiden.  I brought him into this world and I promised to always be there for him.  I don’t even know if we should be in Pittsburgh.  I just know I need support and I have that in Pittsburgh.” GC moved and put his paws on his knees and licked Justin’s face.  Justin hugged the dog. “I’m so glad you are here.”

Time moved on. May turned into June and June turned into July. By mid June, Justin was having a hard time getting Brian when he called.  And when he did get him to answer, he was always so tired he could barely stay awake.  Justin had asked him why but he avoided answering his questions.  On the 4th of July he tried calling him first thing in the morning when it went to voicemail Justin was pissed. He called his mom because he needed to talk to someone.

“Happy 4th, Sweety!  How is that gorgeous grandson of mine?”

“He is perfect, Mom.  You won’t believe how much he is growing.”

“Are you going to be here soon?” Jenn asked.

“Probably three weeks.  I am going to get my final reservations set by the end of the week.”

“You are staying in Pittsburgh, right?”

“Mom, I don’t know how long I will stay.  I will   definitely stay for a while but I’m not sure it is the best place for us.”

“What’s he done?”

“Has he talked to you lately?”

“You know, I saw him in my partner’s office the other day.  Well, I saw him leave and my partner just never did give me a direct answer when I asked why he was there.”

“I just tried to call him and he didn’t answer.  Mom, I just wonder if  there is someone else. I don’t expect you to know that.  Did he use your partner when he bought his new office?”

“He did.  Maybe it had something to do with the rental space he has at one corner of the building.  Justin, you can’t come back just for him but you also can’t not come because of him.  Honey, you need to live for you and Aiden, not for Brian Kinney.”

“Mom, are you still angry with him?”

“I really am not.  I know he hurt you but I think you had a little growing up to do, too.”

“I did.  I often wonder if I over reacted by moving across the country but I knew if I didn’t move, he would have lured me right back into his bed. I just couldn’t …. I love him, Mom.”

“I know you do, Justin.  If I find out what he’s up to I will let you know and I can’t wait to hold that little boy.  I hope you have lots planned because I have taken off so I can have quality time with my grandson.”

After talking a few minutes more, they said goodbye and  almost immediately Jenn was back on the phone calling her partner. By the time she got off the phone with him, Jenn headed to the car.  She had to take a short drive.  Less than fifteen minutes later, she was turning into a circular driveway.  It was obvious that there had been major construction going on recently.  Being a holiday there were no workman’s trucks but there was a jeep parked by the front door.  Brian was definitely here. She walked to the door and rang the bell.  

“About time you got your ass here, Ted! I expected you….”  Brian stopped talking when he saw Jenn standing there.  “Hi, Jenn.  I didn’t expect you here. I told him not to…”

“Don’t blame my partner. I talked to Justin and he is sure you are hiding something from him.  He is thinking it is another man.”

“Oh, shit.  I have been so busy trying to get this done before he arrives.  I will call him later and try to make it up to him.  But since you are here, can I show you around?”

“Brian, you know he hasn’t made up his mind yet.”

“I know, Jenn.  And I don’t want this place to be the reason he comes back to me but if he decides he is willing to try again, I want a place to raise Aiden and a place for GC to run.  I have been thinking about moving out of the loft for a long time.  Do you want to look around?”

Jenn looked around the entry for the first time.  The entrance was open with amazing original woodwork.  “Brian, this place is amazing.  I remember seeing pictures of this but I never actually toured it before.  This is stunning. I am so glad you didn’t change the woodwork.”

“Will you look at the kitchen for me? Most of the work was done in there and the bathrooms.  The rest was just cosmetics.” Brian moved out of the way and motioned for Jenn to move further into the kitchen.

She looked around at the appliances and glanced out to the backyard. “Did you put the swing set in?”

“I didn’t.  I did put new swings on it….well I had new swings put on it. Let me show you the master bath.” Jenn followed Brian up stairs and into a large, bright room.  The wall color was parchment with accents of burgundy and midnight blue. 

“Brian, this room is gorgeous.” She walked into the bathroom.  “Are you sure the shower is big enough?”

Brian put his arm around her shoulders, “Well, I needed to make sure there was enough room for two.”

Jenn pushed him away. “And is Aiden’s room at the other end of the hall?”

Brian opened a door Jenn had thought was a closet. It opened into a nursery.  Jenn looked at the mural on the wall.  Winnie the Pooh held hands with Piglet as they walked through the forest. “Aiden loves Pooh.  I read it too him a few times while I was there.”

“Brian, this room is precious.  The house is lovely and I couldn’t imagine a greater place for my son and grandson to live but you aren’t trying to buy him?”

“Jenn, this house is for the two of them.  I hope they will let me live here with them but no matter what I want them to have it.  It is safe for a boy and his dog with the fence around it.  It is a great location for you to visit.  There is room for Molly to stay overnight if she wants to.  I love him, Jenn.  I will do anything to have him happy with or without me in his life.” Brian walked out onto the little balcony.  Jenn followed him. 

“Brian,if you hurt him again you will have to deal with me but I get the feeling you are serious.   Call him.  Don’t make a stupid mistake trying to do something good.  I’ll show myself out.”

Brian stood there and heard Jenn say something in the distance only to hear footsteps coming closer.  

“Brian, where are you?” Ted’s voice came from out in the hall somewhere.

“Down here.” Brian responded as he moved back into the bedroom, shutting the doors behind him.

“Nice place!” Ted said as he walked in.  “Has Justin agreed to move in with you?”

“I am hoping he will move in here when he gets to town.  I’ll stay in the loft until he invites me to move in here.”

“When is he coming?  Looks like this place is done except for some final touch ups here and there.”

“It is.  That’s why we are going shopping today.  The painting will be done in the next couple days and then I have a cleaning crew coming in to get everything ready for the furniture that we pick today.  I am just getting a few basics right now so don’t worry, this won’t take all day and then when Justin moves in we can pick out the rest.”

“You are really ready for all this?”

“I should have been ready three years ago when I was married to him.  I dropped the ball and before I drop it again, I need to call him.  I don’t think it will take long.  Grab a beer out of the fridge and check out the house and backyard while I try to get a hold of him.”

As Ted walked away, Brian grabbed his phone which was laying on a window sill.  He saw he had missed a couple calls from Justin.  He pressed the screen and the phone started to ring at the other end.

“Wait a sec.” Brian could hear some noise on the other end and then he heard Justin’s voice again.  “I’m back.  I had to make sure Aiden was corralled.  He has caught on to this walking thing far too well.”  There was a pause and when he came back on his tone was less loving.  “You haven’t been available much lately.”

“Oh, Sunshine, I promise that is over.  I had a project I wanted to get finished and it is done now.  I promise when you get here, you two are my top priority.  You know a couple times of year I will have a large project but I promise it will not happen often, and I will warn you when it does.”

“So what were you doing at my mom’s office last week?”

Brian smiled to himself.  “I actually was closing a deal with him.  I was going to talk to you about it later today and yes it is the project I was working on.  I am hoping you’ll agree to my suggestion.  But I have Ted waiting to help me with something.  Can I call you and tell you all about it after Aiden is sleeping tonight?”

“Sure.  I’ll call you about 10:00 your time.”

“Sunshine, I love you.”

“I’ll talk to you tonight.”

Brian walked out of the room to find Ted.  Had he blown it with Justin because he had spent too much time at their house?  He really needed to focus.  Maybe counseling would help them. Who said that? 

“Ted, what do you think?”  

“I’d marry you to live in this place,” Ted laughed.

“I’m not sure he will move in and if he does I’m not sure he will let me move in with him.  Ted, you have got to meet Aiden.  He is the most amazing little boy.  You can tell he is as smart as Sunshine.  And he is so sweet.”

“Brian, it is so obvious you love them both.  I’ll talk to…”

“Don’t.  I want him to figure it out for himself.  I hope he will stay here.  If he insists on paying rent, I’ll let him but I hope he will just stay here and maybe pay me in favors.” Brian grinned at him. “Don’t tell him I said that either. Even if he said he wouldn’t screw me, I would be happy if he would let me be around.  I have missed him so much. I was never sure how he went from an amazing screw to the man I couldn’t live without.  And then he was the man I had to learn to live without him.”

“I know you never thought you would love someone.  And you know I always thought that was the wrong attitude.”

“How has that love thing worked for you?”

“Brian, I am not you.  I don’t look like you.  I’’

“Ted, you are not an ugly man and you are kind and gentle.  Just like I didn’t feel I knew how to love, you seem to think you have nothing to offer a man.  You have so much to offer.”

“Brian, I think I might have found the right one.”

“You sly dog, and you didn’t even tell me?”

“Do you really think I will bring a boyfriend to meet you right away? I have a hard enough time keeping a man.  The last thing I want is for him to see you.”

“So I don’t know him?”

“No, you don’t.  He just moved to town.  He’s actually a doctor.”

“Oh, a doctor?” Brian rolled his eyes but smiled.  “You deserve anyone you want, Theodore.”

“Maybe after Justin gets back we can go out, the four of us.  I’d like you to meet James.”

“I think Justin would go for that.  I really don’t know what he will or won’t go for but I think he will be more willing to do things with other people.”

“You really are willing to do whatever it takes to get him back, aren’t you?”

“I am not sure what I will do if he isn’t willing to work at getting back together.”

“Do you have any reason to think he won’t?”

“I have given up trying to understand.  All I know is I love him and I want him in my life.” Brian took a breath and said, “You done with that beer? I want to do some furniture shopping.”

Justin spent the day outside with Aiden.  He had filled a small blow up pool with water earlier in the week and the water had warmed up comfortably.  Aiden and GC splashed in it for a good part of the afternoon. Justin watched his son and realized he missed Brian.  He missed the conversation, the companionship, and obviously, the sex.   He wasn’t going to jump back into the marriage.  What had he been up to the last few weeks.  He had connected every couple days but if you really love someone, shouldn’t you want to talk daily? Or was he just being overly critical.  He had been so hurt when he left.  It had been their anniversary and he had totally blown him off.  That was just the last straw.  He had tried to get involved with the company but Brian just kept pushing him away.  He was not some delicate flower.  He had to move on or lose who he actually was.  

But he knew life is better when you shared it.  He hoped …. He stopped Aiden mid dash as he was going to run after GC toward the woods.  “I don’t think so young man.  I promise we will go for one more walk in the woods before we leave.  We will go see if we can find birds and squirrels and rabbits.  Oh, look, Aiden.  There is a bunny right there.”  Aiden squealed and the rabbit took off.  Justin laughed and rolled on the ground with him and they both laughed.  “You aren’t very sneaky, little guy.”

As the day went on a storm began to roll in. Justin called GC to the cabin and all of them went in before the rain began. An hour later the wind was blowing and the rain was coming down horizontally.  The cabin trembled as the thunder shook the windows, scaring Aiden with each new crash.  Justin got him to eat a little dinner but then he fell asleep in Justin’s arms, crying every time he thought Justin was going to put him down.   Eventually, Justin laid down with him on his bed and GC jumped up to lay behind him and he finally fell into a deep sleep.  Justin knew he needed to call Brian.  It was getting late on the East Coast.  He had heard his phone vibrate about half an hour ago and he was fairly sure that would have been him.  He slipped out of the bed and softly told GC to stay.  He moved right outside the door where he could see his boy just a bit and he called Brian.

“Sunshine, where have you been? I was worried.  When you didn’t answer I looked up the weather over there and saw you had a horrible storm today.  Is everything alright?”

“Ya, the storm was pretty wild.  It is still raining but it calmed down now.  Aiden was not happy but he finally settled down.”

“Oh, Sunshine, I don’t like the two of you being there alone.  What if something happened to you? What would happen to Aiden?”

“Gee, thanks, Bri.  I needed to hear that.”

“I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean it that way but I’m worried about both of you and I miss you so much. Please tell me you are coming here soon.”

“I had planned to stay a couple more weeks but after the storm today, I think I will see about getting out of here sooner.  I was going to start looking for a place for us to stay.  I thought I might find a place and sign a 6 month lease.  That way if the business doesn’t pan out and I find a job somewhere else I could leave then.”

“I hope you don’t leave but I have a place for you to stay.”

“Bri, I am not moving in with you.  We are not moving in with you.”

“I know that.  That’s why I bought a house.”

“Brian, you are doing just what I don’t want you to do.  I don’t want you planning my life.”

“Justin, that’s not the way I mean it.  I had been looking for a place.  I enjoy the loft but GC needs room so, shortly after I got home from Montana, your mom’s partner found this place.  It is a great house with a large fenced yard.  GC will love it and it even has a swing already.”

“But, Brian, I am not ready to move in together.”

“No, This is for the two of you and GC.  I hope you will let me spend time there. I miss your little boy.  I miss you, Sunshine.  I love you so much.”

“Brian, I just can’t...I need to take this a day at a time.  I need time to get my life into place and if you are willing to fit our lives together, I will think about it.”

“Justin, I will do anything to have you back in my life. I know I screwed up.”I 

“Ya, you did but I wasn’t perfect by any means.  I screwed up, too.  I should have made you go to counseling instead of running away.”

“I am willing to do that, Justin.  I can see my mistakes now. Ted was around today and I told him I would be willing to do anything to get back with you.”

“You would really do that?”

“Come home and I will work through anything with you.”

Aiden started crying in the bed and GC barked making sure Justin heard him.  “I have to go, Bri.  Aiden…”

“I can hear him.  Can I talk to him?”

“Sure.  I’m here, Aiden.  Daddy’s here.  Do you want to talk to Brian?”  Justin switched to video mode and, as Aiden crawled into his daddy’s lap on the bed he reached for the phone.  

“Hi, Aiden, I’m sorry you were scared tonight.  You know your daddy would never let anything happen to you.”

“Babababa,” Aiden reached for the phone and kissed it. 

Brian swallowed hard. “Oh, Aiden, you are such a good boy.  Sunshine, I love him so much.  I love you.  I will do anything to make us work. Just say it and I’ll do it.  I love you, Aiden.  Take good care of your daddy.”  

“Brian, I have to get him settled down again.  “I'll let you know when we are coming home.”

The phone went dead and Brian lay back in his lonely bed.   No matter what it took, he was going to win Justin over and if he had to he would hit below the belt and win Aiden over to pull Justin back into his life permanently.  

Chapter 4

Justin had everything packed up.  GC could tell something was up and stayed close to the cabin.  As Justin was bringing the last of the luggage to the car he wondered if he should have told Brian they were coming.  He had talked to his mom and she was going to meet them at the airport.  He wasn’t sure why he hadn’t given him an exact day but he needed to tell him that he was on his way back so he would expect GC.  He strapped Aiden into his carseat and texted the caretaker he was on his way out.  He would come and lock everything up since it would be empty for a while.  

He whistled and GC came running from the side of the cabin and jumped into the car beside Aiden and then Justin got into the car.  He gave GC the medicine the vet had given them so he would sleep on the plane ride home.  Once the dog had been checked in and Justin had gotten to his gate, he finally texted Brian.  ‘We will be landing at 8:00 pm.  Will you be home for GC? He will be delivered around 10:00 pm.’

Brian had just finished lunch when he received the text and immediately called him.  “Sunshine, you’re coming home now?  Why didn’t you tell me? Is something wrong?”

“This is why I didn’t tell you.  Brian, I do want to see you, soon. But it will be late and Aiden is going to need to go straight to bed and…”

“Sunshine, it’s fine.  I understand.  Are you going to your mom’s or do you want to go to the new house?”

“Mom and Molly would kill me if I didn’t stay there tonight.  If it’s alright with you, I’ll text when we land and I will call you in the morning once I know what is up.  GC will be delivered by a car service.  I will give them your address and phone number.”

Brian’s voice softened, “Justin, I’m so glad you are almost home. I’ve missed you.”  Brian heard the airport loudspeaker and then Justin was gone.  He couldn’t believe it.  Tonight they would be sleeping only miles apart.  Damn, he wanted to be with him.  Maybe tomorrow.  He ached for him now that he knew he was on his way.  

Brian rushed out of his office and pulled Cynthia out of her seat, hugging her.  “What the hell, Brian?”

“Justin will be in Pittsburgh by tonight.  TONIGHT!”

“Thank, god.  I can’t handle your moping anymore.  Is he staying with you?”

“No, I hope I will see him tomorrow.  His mom is picking him up.”

“And you’re alright with that?”

“Fuck, I want to be there but I need to follow his wishes.  Damn, I have missed him so much!”

“Is he bringing GC?”

“He has hired a service to bring GC back to the house.”

“Now, the Brian Kinney I have come to know and love would not sit back and wait.  Take your ass to the airport and pick up your dog and if you happen to run into Justin and Aiden…”

Brian kissed her and swung her around again. “Remind me you need a raise!”

“Not a problem.  I will do that.”

“Do I have anything that can’t be rearranged this afternoon?”

“No, go.  You are going to be useless the rest of the day anyway.”

“Is Ted in his office?”

“He is but he has co….”

Brian didn’t hear the rest of the sentence. He rushed toward Ted’s office and barged in to find Ted in the arms of a beautiful man. “Oh, sorry.  Hell no, I’m not.” He extended his hand to the man who was now standing next to Ted. “I’m Brian Kinney and you are?”

The handsome man took his hand and in a light French accent he said, “Nice to finally meet you. I am Victor Gerard. Theodore has told me so many lovely things about you.  You are a good friend and employer.”

“Ted is a great friend and I consider him a partner, not just an employee.”

“Um, Brian, did you need something?”

“Oh, ya!  Sunshine is on his way back!  I just wanted to let you know and I am taking off the rest of the day.”

“That’s great news.  We will have to go to dinner soon.  I would love to see Justin.”

“Ted, can I just see you for a minute in the hall?”

They stepped out and Brian shut the door.  “That man is stunning. Good for you.  You deserve that man.  Go fuck his brains out, just make sure you lock the door.”  Brian patted Ted’s shoulder and headed to the door.

Brian stopped at the corner grocery and picked up a few things and then  went to the loft.  He decided he should talk to Jenn and let her know what his plans were.  Once he put the groceries away he poured himself some juice and called his ex-mother in law.

“Brian, did you hear he’s coming home?” Jenn’s excitement was palpable.  “I can’t wait to get my hands on that beautiful grandson of mine. He said he has a courier arranged to drop the dog off.”

“That is why I’m calling.  I am going to meet you at the airport.  I’ll bring GC home but mainly… damn, I want to see your son and grandson. Jenn, I will do anything to make Justin happy.  I hope he will move into the house and eventually I hope he will let me move in with him.”

“Brian, I believe you truly do love my son.  I don’t think you ever stopped but something went wrong.  And I am not blaming you solely, Justin overreacted, too.  And now, with Aiden to protect, he will be even more careful.”

“He should.  That grandson of yours is just a perfect child.  He is so sweet and good natured.  I knew Justin was going to be an amazing father.  If only I would have….”

“Brian, my son will not be happy with anyone else.  Don’t let him get away because he is going to be very cautious now.  He has two failed relationships.  He would rather be alone forever than have another failure.  My son is a strong, successful man but right now he has a fragile heart.  I think you helped start the healing.  Please, Brian, I want my boys to stay here where they are loved.”

“Thanks, Jenn.  I promise to do my best and if you see me screwing up, please let me know.”

“I will, Brian.  I love you, too, you know.”

“I know, Jenn.  I love you, too.  I will see you at the airport later.  I promise I won’t take up much of his time.  They are yours tonight. See you soon.” Brian hung up.  He realized he needed to do a little shopping before he left for the airport.  Brian went online and ordered the biggest stuffed dog he could find.  He then started looking at a bouquet of roses.   At first he thought of hundreds but he realized that would not work well at the airport so he asked for a dozen.  The assistant on the phone asked what color he wanted and started explaining what each color stood for.  After the third explanation Brian stopped him.  “Do you have twelve different colors?”

“Oh, yes, sir.”

“I want 12 different colors.  I will be there in an hour.”

“Oh, no problem, sir.” Brian gave him his credit card information and then jumped into the shower. He did some manscaping and when he had dried off he put a touch of Justin’s favorite cologne on. It was a very warm night but he wanted to dress up just a bit so he put on a simple white button down shirt with a pair of kaukis.  He rolled the sleeves up to the elbows and then slipped on his shoes. There was a buzz at the door and the six foot dog was brought up in the lift.  He looked at the clock. He would stop at the florist and then it was time to go to the airport.

As he drove to the airport he was glad it wasn’t later or the sun would be blinding but He would do anything to let Sunshine know he was in this for all the right reasons.  Justin’s plane was about to land when Brian pulled into the short term parking lot.  He saw Jenn waiting by the arrival gate and came up behind her, kissing her on the cheek. She jumped slightly but then slipped her arm around his waist.  

“I’m glad you decided to come,”  Jenn squeezed him.  “I am so excited. I have missed him so much.”

“I’m sorry, Jenn.  That was my fault.”

“I don’t blame you, Brian.  I think this is their plane.” She held onto his arm as the first people began to come down the hall.  

People were down to a trickle when Justin came down the hall.  He had a sleeping Aiden in his arms and a large bag over his shoulder. As soon as she could, Jenn rushed over to him and kissed her grandson and then her son.  “It is so good to have you here.” Jenn said as she slipped Aiden out of Justin’s arms.  

Brian took a step closer and offered him the flowers he had in his hand. “Welcome to Pittsburgh.” Brian took him in his arms and kissed him.  “I’m just here to take GC home.  I’ll see you tomorrow.” Brian kissed him once more before starting to step away.

Justin grabbed his hand and pulled him back for one more kiss. “I’ll talk to you in the morning.” Justin said softly.  

Brian moved to Jenn and kissed Aiden’s rosy cheek before going to the area they were bringing out big containers.  Justin had paid extra so GC had not been down with the rest of the luggage.  The plane had a separate area that was monitored regularly.  Brian heard Gray Cub before he saw him.  He was coming out of the medication that Justin had given him and he wasn’t very happy.  Brian walked into the private claim area for special items.  The moment GC heard Brian’s voice at the desk, he started yipping happily instead of the soulful howl.

By the time Brian walked out with his dog, his family was no longer in sight.  He had folded up the carrier and with that in one hand he held the leash for the sleepy dog as they walked out to the car.  As soon as they were on the road, GC laid his head on Brian’s thigh and went back to sleep. The whole way home Brian tasted Justin’s lips on  his own and he wanted so much more.

Jenn sat in the back with Aiden as Justin drove them home. “Mom,” Justin spoke softly, “did you know Bri was coming?”

“He called this afternoon and said he wanted to pick up GC. No, well yes, he wanted to get GC but he wanted to see you. I think he deserves a chance, Justin.  I won’t say anything else.  It is your decision.  And you know you are welcome to stay with Molly and me but he is offering you an amazing house that will be perfect for the two or three of you.”

“Mom, you just said…”

“I’m sorry.  But the house is amazing.”

“He didn’t go insane did he? It’s not some extravagant mansion is it?”

“No, honey.  It is a very nice house but he didn’t go insane.”

“Where is Molly? I thought she would be here.”

“Well, since you didn’t give us a lot of notice that you were coming home, she had to work tonight but she will be home about the same time we are.”

Aiden started waking up and he started crying, not seeing his daddy.  “Dadada.”

“I’m right here, Aiden. Mom, he might like a snack or a drink.  There is water in a bottle.

“Bababa.”

“Does he want the bottle?”

“Actually, it could be his bottle or it could be Brian.  Mom, I just don’t know what to do about Brian.  I just can’t let him get too close and then ….  That wouldn’t be fair to Aid.  He has lost one father already even though he doesn’t remember him at all.”

“Justin as long as you keep Aiden in the forefront, I know you will figure out what is right for all of you.”

Once they arrived at Jenn’s, Justin calmed Aiden down and after he had eaten something he warmed up to his grandma and aunt.  Justin went to the guest room and organized some of their items and made sure the portable crib was set up for Aiden. Soon Aiden was ready for bed.  He was going to go read him a story but Molly asked if she could.  Soon he was sound asleep on his aunt’s lap.  Justin took him to their room and put him in his bed and then Justin came back out.  

Jenn handed him a glass of wine as they settled on the sofa together.  They talked a bit about the business Justin wanted to start and Jenn got him caught up on what was going on in the family but then Jenn started yawning. 

“Mom, you don’t have to stay up with me.  I’m in a different time zone and I guess I am just a little unsettled.”

“Justin, you could go see him. You said Aiden usually sleeps through the night and if he wakes up I am sure I can settle him back down.” Jenn walked over and kissed his cheek. Go to him if you want to. If Aiden really has a bad spell, I’ll call you and you can be back here in under fifteen minutes.”

Justin started to protest but then just said, “I don’t know if I’ll go to the loft but I do need to get some diapers so maybe I’ll just go for a drive. Thanks, Mom. Call if you need me. I love you.”

“I’m so glad you are back home, Justin.” She handed him her keys and kissed his cheek, “Good night.” She disappeared down the hall and Justin wandered out the door.  

Justin drove to the Big Q and picked up some diapers and some snacks that Aiden really liked.  He then got back and drove aimlessly for a while.  He thought about stopping at the Liberty Diner but kept going.  He went past something new, ‘A Safe Place to Lay’.  He could see a couple young men on the front porch.  Justin would find out more about that place.  Maybe he could volunteer or something.  He knew it was a place that was needed. And then he realized he was outside the loft.  He parked and got out the key he never gave back.  He hoped Brian hadn’t changed the locks.

It was nearly midnight when Brian heard GC growl and then bark, moving toward the door.  “What is it boy?” He heard the lift.  “They aren’t very stealth are they?”  Brian had had stupid crooks stop by before but using the elevator was dumb for anyone. 

“GC, alert!” It was a command GC had been taught when danger could be around. He stood growling deep in his throat but then all of the sudden he relaxed and made an excited little yip. “Boy, what is it?”  GC rushed toward the door as it slid open slowly.  “I have a vicious dog in here.”

“Hey, boy.” Justin patted the dog’s head and walked in.  “Hey, Brian.” He held up the keyring.  “I hope you don’t mind.  I still had my keys.”  He was moving before he got the words out and Brian and Justin met halfway before Justin flung himself into Brian’s arms. “God, I missed you!”

Brian wrapped his arms around Justin and held onto him tightly. Justin crushed Brian’s lips with his own and they plundered his mouth with his tongue.  As their lips began to wander to other parts of their faces and necks, Justin began to unbutton Brian’s shirt.  When he finished with the closure he pushed the material off his shoulders and Justin dropped feather kisses down Brian’s clavicle.  Brian thought about slowing him down but his own need was too deep.  

They separated long enough for Brian to remove Justin’s shirt and just the feel of Justin’s warm skin. Brian’s hands worked at Justin’s fly and soon his hands were cupping his bare ass, pulling him close.  His own cock was straining for release.  His finger began to prod gently and when it slipped into the puckered hole, Justin shivered,

“Brian, please, I need you.”  

Brian led Justin to the bedroom and though he could barely see anything but Brian in his vision, he had to laugh when he saw the stuffed dog. “Oh, Aiden is going to love that!”

“Who said it was for Aiden?” Brian smiled as Justin worked as fast as he could to undo Brian’s pants.  He stepped out of them but stepped away from Justin and just stared at him. 

“Damn, Brian, don’t make me wait!”

Brian moved back into arms reach and as Justin shoved Brian onto the bed and dropped onto him gently, letting his mouth roam.  Brian rolled so they were facing each other and Justin wrapped his top leg around Brian’s waist as Brian, after slipping on a condom, moved into him. Brian locked eyes with Jusitn and they moved in unison. Brian did his best to not rush. He forgot how much he loved to watch Justin’s expressions.  Brian knew the moment Justin was going to cum and thrust harder so they came together. “God, I love you, Sunshine!”  Brian pulled him tightly against him and shut his eyes.  They both lay quietly in their own thoughts still linked.

Eventually they moved and spooned together.  Brian holding onto Justin quite tightly.  “You surprised me,” he said softly. I didn’t…”

“Neither did I.  I was too keyed up to sleep so Mom sent me out to get diapers. It was her idea for me to come here but I didn’t think I would but as I drove around I just found myself here.  I really need to go home now.  Aiden is in good hands but he doesn’t know that.”

“Sunshine, I promise I won’t continue to talk about this but I want you to know I love you and I will do whatever you ask to keep you in my life. In the morning may I pick the two of you up and bring you to the house?”

“Yes, can I let you know the time later? It will depend on Aiden and his schedule.”

“I’ll be waiting.  I can’t wait to spend time with Aiden.  I have missed him so much.”

“He has missed you, too.  I never know if he is asking for his bottle or you. He calls for Baba for both.

“He asks for me?”

“He loves you as much as you love him.”

Brian swallowed hard. “I wasn’t involved with Gus at that age, not like I should have been. I promise I would never hurt him.”

“Oh Bri, I know that but if we don’t make it, and I move on, he can’t be caught in the fall out.”

“Well then, my love, we better not fall out.” Brian’s kiss was filled with so much passion, so much promise that Justin quivered deep inside. Should he really get involved with Brian again? He wasn’t sure he had a choice.  His heart always won.  That’s why he was a single father right now.  His heart had been so bruised he fell for Daklin’s arms.  He would not make another commitment this time until he was sure it was the right thing to do, not only for him but his son.  

Justin walked into the bathroom and Brian heard the water start in the shower but before he could get out of bed, the water stopped.  Justin strode back in with a towel wrapped around.  As he dressed, Brian watched him.

“You’re making me paranoid. What are you staring at?”

“I’m sorry.  I was just trying to figure out how I lost you?  And I am trying to figure out how I have lived the last three years without you.”

“Brian, I need to go.  I shouldn’t have come.  I just….”

Brian got out of bed and walked over to him, “I will wait to hear from you.  Hopefully you like the house and, you are going to need something to drive….”

“Brian, I don’t need you to buy me anything.”  Justin sounded harsher than he had planned.

“Who said anything about me buying you anything.  I just thought you would like a friend to help find something.”

Justin took a deep breath, “I’m sorry.  All of the sudden I am exhausted.  My brain just isn’t working straight right now.  You have been nothing but wonderful.“ He kissed him lightly.  I’ll call you when we are up for the day.

Brian put an arm around Justin’s waist and kissed him once more.  “Drive carefully.  I love you.” 

Justin didn’t respond, but walked to the door and left without another word.

Brian had slept much better than he thought he would and he was up at 7:00 to go to Safe Place.  He tried to help with breakfast at least twice a month but actually ended up making breakfast most Saturdays or Sundays.  He liked to talk to the young men, well boys really, and try to find out if there is anything else he can do to improve their lives.  He had failed with some and they ended up involved in drugs and prostitution and that’s when he realized how important he went more often.  When they knew someone really cared, the boys seemed to try harder. 

Brian was flipping pancakes when his phone rang.  He handed his spatula to one of the boys and answered the call.  “Hey Sunshine, I hope you slept well.”

“I did.  If you were serious about helping me find a car, I’d like that.  And then we can look at the house.”  Justin could hear several male voices with Brian.  “Are you at the gym?”

“I would say it's more like the zoo.” He laughed as he looked at the young men around the table.

Justin’s voice turned cold.  “Sorry, I interrupted something. What time would be better for me to…”

“No, Justin, you’ve got it all wrong.  I’ll explain when I pick you up.  I promise, it is not what you think.”

“Ok,” Justin’s voice was wary, “What time works for you?”

“I will be free anytime after 10:00.”

“Thanks, Brian.  Same time next week?” a  voice said near the phone.

“See you then, Korry. Keep up the good work.”  Justin heard Brian say to the person named Korry.

“If you are sure, how about 10:30?”  Justin wondered what Brian was up to if he wasn’t at the gym.

“I’ll pick you up at your mom’s.”  Brian hung up.

Justin looked at Jenn and Molly.  “He’s up to something. I wish I knew where he was right now.  He said he wasn’t at the gym but there were definitely men around him.”

“Maybe he was at A Safe Place to Lay,” Molly said as she gave Aiden some dry cereal on the tray of his chair.

“I drove past that place last night.  What is it?” Justin asked.

Jenn poured Justin another cup of coffee.  “It is a non-profit Brian helped create.  Young men can live there and the program helps them finish their school whether that is high school or college and then get them into jobs.  They have to stay clean and stay out of prostitution.” 

“Wow, and Brian stays involved? He didn’t lose interest already?”

“Honey, I tried to tell you he has changed.  I have heard he has put a lot of his own money into the project and has taken some real interest in the young men.  Many of them that have moved on are still in contact with him.”

Molly looked at her brother, “I know when you left the two of you had issues but, bro, you better take him back because he is really a good guy. A couple of the guys were in one of my classes and they say he really cares about them. Now when are you leaving so we can spoil Aiden?”

At 10:30 Brian pulled up and Justin walked out the door.  At the last minute he tried to take Aiden with him but Jenn reasoned with him.  Aiden would have a lot more fun staying with them and it would make it a lot easier for him to look for a vehicle. And as he thought about it, maybe keeping Aiden away from Brian until he was a little  more sure what to do wasn’t a bad idea.  Brian had walked around the vehicle and opened the door for Justin, giving him a quick kiss as Justin got in.  Brian pulled out and then started to explain the call this morning.

“Sunshine, this morning I was….”

“Were you at the ‘Safe Place to Lay’?”

“I was. How did you know?”

“Molly and Mom told me a little bit about it.  Why didn’t you tell me about the place?”

“Justin, you have been home less than a day.”

“You didn’t mention it when we were in Montana.”

“I guess it just didn’t come up.  It is just part of my life now. After you left I needed something to distract me and Debbie called and told me that the hostel a lot of the boys on their own had lost its funding.  I started looking into it and well, things fell into place.  Kinnetik started the funding and soon we had three more companies helping fund it.  From there we started talking to medical agencies and schools that were willing to help and then it just kept spreading.  I just started going to help with breakfast on the weekends.  That way I can listen to them interact and get an idea of what else they might need.”

Justin sat quietly for the next couple minutes.  “Brian, if Mom and Molly hadn’t told me about this I might have trouble believing this.  I mean I always knew you had a good heart but you seemed to doubt it most of the time.”

“I needed something to fill up my time.  When I realized I had let you slip away and you wouldn’t respond to any of my attempts to talk to you, I had to do something.  Spending most of my nights at the club just didn’t cut it anymore. Knowing what love really was changed everything.”

Brian pulled into a car dealership.  “I never asked if you cared what kind of car you wanted but the owner here is one of the supporters of Safe Place so we work together a lot.  I do his advertising.  He gets my company cars for me.  He told me he had a couple good options for a father with a carseat.”

“You know I am not stuck on a certain car as long as it has a good safety rating for Aiden.”  A distinguished man came out and met them.  Brian introduced them and they followed him around the corner where they found four vehicles set aside.  He explained these were all company cars.  They had a few miles on them but were basically new and he could give him a great deal on any of them.

Within an hour Justin had driven three of them and was working on paperwork to purchase an SUV. Once everything was signed he followed Brian as they drove to the house.  As they each drove a car, each had a lot to think about.

Brian was nervous.  What if Justin didn’t like the house? What would he do if Justin decided he wasn’t interested in a relationship.  He had come over last night.  That was a good sign.  He just couldn’t get his hopes too high.  He had created a life without him but there was always an empty spot that no one could fill except Justin and now Aiden.

Justin followed Brian in his new vehicle.  He had gotten an excellent deal, thanks to Brian but not so good a deal that he thought Brian had rigged it with the owner. What was he going to do? He loved Brian. He was sure of that but his son had to come first and he couldn’t risk Aiden getting hurt by his choice of lovers. He had screwed up twice already. Brian sounded like he had changed and his mom and Molly seemed to back that up but he wasn’t the same man he was three years ago either.  Did he know for sure what he wanted in life? Did he have a choice about what he wanted? He didn’t think he could live without Brian.  He just wasn’t sure that he should live with him.

Brian pulled into the circular drive of the mission style home and Justin parked behind him.   “Bri, this place….I love the style. It’s bigger than I expected. Why did you get such a good deal on it?”

“It needed major updates in the bathroom and kitchen.  A lot of people can’t see past that and I heard a lot of people said it felt like it belonged in California. I love it.” He stopped talking,
“I hear GC.  I am sure he is ready to socialize.”

“I can tell that Aiden was looking for him today.  He loves that dog.”

“That’s why he is going to live here.  He deserves a backyard and a boy.”  Brian opened the door and handed the key to Justin.  “You can see I have a few basic pieces of furniture in here but it still needs a lot.” GC came flying in through the doggy door and both Justin and Brian gave him some attention before moving into the kitchen.

“Oh, Brian, this kitchen is perfect. I love it.  Can I see the bedrooms?”

“There is one off the kitchen in case you want a nanny or some other help in the house or you could make it an office. The master, nursery, and a guest room are up there. I figured Molly might stay over from time to time.”

Brian led the way upstairs and into the master. Justin looked at the balcony and the bathroom with the closets off of it. And when he opened the last door, expected storage of some kind and found the nursery, he nearly cried.  “Oh, Brian, you really did make this perfect for us.” He walked over and kissed him.  “Thank you. I couldn’t have chosen better myself.”

“When Aiden gets older, if you are still here, he will move into the room down the hall and this can be an office.” Brian put his arms around Justin and kissed him again.  “I am so glad you like it.  GC will love the yard. I hope you give me visitation.”

“Brian,” Brian kissed down Justin’s neck, “that’s not fair.” Justin turned so Brian’s lips moved to his and soon they were stretched out on the king size bed.  Brian unzipped Justin’s pants and moved down his body until he could take Justin’s cock in his mouth.  Within minutes Justin was arching and then he came deep in Brian’s throat.

“God Brian, what am I going to do with you?” Justin said as Brian moved back up his body. 

“I am hoping you will tell me you love me and want me to move in here with you and be a family.  I would be satisfied with you sharing the house with me.  We could share the bedroom or I could sleep downstairs or….”

“Brian, I …”

“I’m sorry.  That wasn’t fair.  I hope sometime you invite me to stay but I don’t want to put undo pressure on you.  I love you.  That will not change and I will be waiting until you ask me to stay. Now, if you think this house will work for you and Aiden give them a call.”

“It is perfect for us but I think before we call them…” Justin’s hand slipped inside Brian’s pants and he soon had Brian erect.  “Do we need to wait until dark to christen the bed?”

Brian rolled on top of him, “Absolutely not! I love to see your face when I sink into you.”

“Fuck me, Brian.”

“I can’t do that, Sunshine.”

“You can’t fuck me?”

“No, I love you.  Believe me, I have no problem making love to you.”

“Brian, I….please love me.”

Chapter 5

Molly helped Aiden into the swing and gently pushed him in the swing while GC chased the swing back and forth a few times before he lost interest and chased a squirrel up a tree. Justin had been back for two weeks and this afternoon Jenn was helping organize his kitchen.  

“Justin, is it alright if I put the spices here? I know I’d want them close to the stove.”

“Ya, that’s great, Mom, and if I do any baking I will probably use that part of the counter to do that.  As Aiden grows, I’ll be able to watch him out those windows as he plays.”

“Honey, does that mean you plan to stay here?” Jenn slipped her arm around his waist and they stood there watching Molly with Aiden.

“I don’t know, Mom. I guess I just can’t picture myself anywhere else.  I love watching Aiden  with you and Molly.  He already loves you both so much.”

“Well, he doesn’t love us as much as we love him.  You are such a good daddy.  That little boy knows nothing but love. Is Brian coming over tonight?”

“I really am not sure.  I’m so confused, Mom.”

“What’s wrong, Justin? Did something happen between the two of you?”

“No, not really. Oh Mom, he is so wonderful.  Obviously, he isn’t perfect but he has become the best Brian he can be and, well, it scares me.”

“Why does it scare you? I would think it would be exactly what you wanted.”

“It is but….” he noticed GC standing next to him and he patted his head. “Mom, what if it doesn’t work again. He wants to spend time with Aiden but I have been keeping them apart.  I don’t want Aiden to rely on him if he is gone again soon.”

“Justin, trust your heart but follow your mind. In other words, Brian’s not going anywhere.  You don’t have to rush anything.  I think you need to let Brian and Aiden spend time together. If it doesn’t work out, Aiden will still be loved.  You still love Gus and keep in contact with him.  If it came to that, Aiden and Brian could do the same thing but, don’t take me wrong, I think you are going to make it this time.  You both have grown and matured in the last three years.”  Jenn looked at her son, “why don’t you and Brian have a night together.  Molly or I or both of us can stay here with Aiden so he can sleep in his own bed. You can have the night with Brian at the loft.”

“Mom, you don’t have to.”

“You know we love spending time with him and this house, well, I have no trouble staying in this place either. When Molly goes back to college in a couple weeks, you will probably tell me to stop hanging out here.   My guess is after she finishes her master’s in the spring she won’t be moving back  here.  She will be ready to create her own home.”

“Mom, you know there is room for you here if you don’t want to live alone.”

“Don’t say that if you don’t mean it. I think you and Brian need to figure out what’s right for you and then, maybe I would seriously consider it. Now go call Brian and plan your date for tonight.”

Justin kissed Jenn’s cheek. “I’ll do that.  We have been talking about getting together with Ted and his boyfriend.  Maybe we can do that tonight.”  Justin was calling Brian as he walked away. 

“Hey, Sunshine.  Miss me?” Brian said with a note of sensuality to his voice.

“Do you think Ted and his boyfriend are free tonight?”

“I don’t know but I can find out. What’s up?”

“Mom is throwing me out of my own house tonight so she can have her grandson to herself.  I was thinking we could have dinner with them and then go back to the loft for the night.”

“Well, whether they can or not, I am sure we could think of lots of things we could do tonight.”

“Let me know what is planned so I know what to wear and I will talk to you later.  Mom and I are about done with the kitchen.”

“See you soon, Sunshine.  I love you.”

Brian set down the phone.  Damn, he just wanted to hear those three words.  Justin wasn’t giving anything away. He missed Aiden so much.  At least Justin was sharing pictures and short videos of him.  He had seen him sleeping a few times before they made love and he would go home.  He just wanted to stay overnight and wake up with them both.  He would be patient and at least Justin seemed to want to spend time with him. 

Brian picked up his phone again and called Ted.  “Hey, Boss, what’s up?  You didn’t get another call from that…”

“What are you and Victor up to tonight?”

“I made reservations for a nice dinner, why?”

“Justin was wondering if tonight would work to go out together.  Aiden is going to be with Jenn tonight so we have the whole night.”

“I think that will work. I want you to get to know Victor.  He is really a great guy.”

“It sounds like you are in love, Theodore.”

“Brian, I think I might be and he already is planning our future.”

“He isn’t planning on taking you somewhere is he?”

“If you mean are we moving? No.  He is adding more doctors to his practice.  The only thing that will take me away is a vacation now and then.”

“If you want to get completely away, we have our cabin.”

“I might take you up on that.  I have reservations for 7:30.  I will text you the address and I will change the reservations to 4 instead of 2.”

They said goodbye and Brian texted Justin.  They decided Justin would be at the loft around 6:30 and then they could go to the restaurant together.  Brian already started planning what suit to wear and couldn’t wait to see Justin dressed in a jacket and, oh god, pants that clung to his perfect ass. They had gone shopping last weekend and he had bought  a couple suits for upcoming meetings he hoped to have as he started his new business. Next week was going to be Justin’s first week at the office.  Molly would babysit the next couple weeks and Justin was going to interview babysitters this week.  Brian had already helped narrow the interviews down and he hoped Justin would let him sit in on the interviews.  Aiden and Justin were the main focus of his life these days.  Nothing was more important than their safety and happiness.

Justin came down the stairs at 6:15.  Molly let out a low whistle.  “You clean up really good, big brother.”

“Thanks, Molly. Why the hell am I nervous? I am just having dinner with friends.”

“Bullshit, Justin.  Tell Brian you love him and have him move in.  It would be easier on everyone.”

“Do you really think so, Mol?”

“I really do. I’m not a kid anymore.  I know what to look for in a good man.  Stay away from men like Dad and connect with men like Brian.  I wish he had a much younger, straight brother.”

“He has a nephew about your age but the last time they had anything to do with each other was probably 20 years ago.”

“You know I will finally be done with school in the spring.  I really do hope to settle down soon and be able to have a cousin or two for Aiden.”  

“Well, Molly, anyone who gets you in their life will be really lucky.  You will be a great mom and wife. Call me if anything comes up.”  Justin kissed her forehead and then left for Brian’s with an overnight bag.

Brian knew Justin would be here soon and started buttoning up his shirt and then tucked it into his slacks as he sipped up the fly.   As he sat on the bed to put on his shoes and socks, he heard the elevator and then heard the key in the door.  He quickly finished dressing and moved down the steps just as Justin dropped his bag on the sofa and stood frozen in his spot.  Brian looked stunning and he could smell his favorite scent from here. 

“Sunshine, you look…” Brian walked over and took him in his arms. “I knew that suit was perfect for you but, damn, I just want to strip it right off you.” His hand slid under the jacket and linked his fingers behind Justin’s waist, pulling him close. “I am the luckiest man in the world.”  He gently brushed his lips against Justin’s.  There was no demand in it other than to accept him. Justin asked for more.  His arms went around Brian’s neck and hair and pulled him down for more pressure on his lips.  Brian did not argue. He added enough pressure that Justin arched backward.  

By the time they separated they were both breathless.  “Have I told you lately, how much I love you?” Brian asked as he lost himself in Justin’s blue eyes.

Justin, holding Brian’s gaze, started to open his mouth but whatever he had planned to say halted when the door buzzer sounded. “Fuck,” Brian mumble.  “That is the car.  Victor hired a car so we don’t have to limit our wine.”  He straightened Justin’s collar and Justin smoothed his hair.

“We better get moving.”

“Did I mention, Ted’s boyfriend is probably one of the most beautiful men I have ever seen?”

“Well, yes, you did seem to mention that on a few occasions.  Should I be worried?  Should Ted be worried?” Justin asked as they stepped onto the elevator.  By the time it stopped on the bottom floor, Justin was again straightening his jacket and they were both flushed. 

In front of the building a limo was waiting for them.  A driver in a formal uniform was waiting at the car door and as they stepped out the driver tipped his hat and opened the door.  Justin moved in and Brian followed. Justin looked up and smiled, “Ted, it is so good to see you.” They awkwardly hugged across the facing seats. Once Brian was comfortable and the door was shut he shook Victor’s hand and then Ted made the introduction.  

“Victor, I would like to introduce Justin Taylor.  Justin, this is Victor Gerard.”

‘Nice to meet you,” Justin offered his hand.

“So nice to meet you, Justin.  Ted speaks very highly of you.  I hear you have a young son.”

Justin had to smile. He already liked this man.  “I do.  Aiden is almost 15 months old. He is with my family tonight.”

“Well, I happen to be a pediatrician so if you are looking for a doctor for him, I have a practice full of excellent pediatricians.”

“I hope I don’t need you for some time but when he is ready for his two year check up, I will contact you.”

The men fell into a comfortable conversation and by the time they arrived at the restaurant, they all felt like old friends. Through the meal Victor told about growing up in France and when Justin excused himself to check on Aiden, Victor looked at Brian, “I hope you are doing everything possible to keep that young man.  He has something special.”

“Yes, he does.  I am trying my best to win him back but with Justin that sometimes means not pushing him.”

“I can understand that,” Ted commented, “but you both love each other and he will come around.  I know he will.”

“He hasn’t said it, yet. I thought he might be ready to say it tonight and the driver buzzed,” Brian scowled.  

Victor patted his shoulder, “He will.  It is obvious you two belong together.”  

Brian stood as Justin walked up.  He kissed him and asked, “Everything ok with Molly and Aiden?”

“Actually, now Mom is there with him.  Molly had a friend call her at the last minute so she went out.”

“Either way, Aiden is in good hands. I miss that little guy.”  Brian said it before he realized it.  He wasn’t going to push that.  

The evening continued and soon it was after 10:00 and they were in the back of the car.  Brian mentioned the cabin in Montana and commented, “I told Ted if you two want to get away, I don’t think we will be using the place again this fall and it is still safe to go there for the month of September.  Well, it is safe to go later but you might be stuck there for a while if it snows.”

“Oh, Theodore, let’s go.  I have never been there and I would love to get away for a week with you. We could go the weekend before Labor Day and spend the week.”

The car stopped in front of the loft.  “Just let me know if you want to use it.  We will contact the  caretaker and he can have everything ready.” Brian said as he stepped out of the car and offered his hand to Justin who took it.  Brian pulled Justin into his arms and they were still kissing when the car pulled away.  Brian and Justin moved into the building and onto the lift before getting off the elevator and unlocking the door to the apartment.

“Sunshine, how about a night cap.  A glass of wine before we go….”

Justin cut him off by pressing his mouth first and then whole body tightly against Brian.

“Hell, who needs another drink,” Brian mumbled as they stumbled up the steps to the bedroom. After taking time to undress each other they fell onto the bed and instantly were entwined in each other’s arms and legs. Soon, as Brian moved in and out, he clung to Justin who                  absorbed every stroke. As Brian came to the verge of an orgasm he said, “Justin Taylor, I love you. I always have and I always will.” Brian stayed buried inside him until Justin moved away.  He got out of bed and left the bedroom.  

Brian watched him go, confused. He gave him a few minutes and then, after putting on a robe, he found Justin drinking a whiskey and staring out the window in the dark apartment.  He walked up behind him and wrapped his arms around Justin’s shoulders. Justin rested against him.  “What is it, Justin? Did I do something? Say something?”

“No, Brian.” He hesitated and then said, “Well, yes, you did.  You have become a perfect man.  Well, as perfect as a man can be. I mean you aren’t even pushing  to move in and I know how much you want to see Aiden.”

“You have your reasons.  You are his father. I know you are only doing what you think is best.” He kissed Justin’s temple.  “I hurt you badly.  I understand that. I have done my best to change. I am willing to wait.  You are worth it.”

“Damn, Brian Kinney, why do you have to…” Justin spun to face him. “I love you.  I should have never left you.  I never stopped missing you.  God, you are the best…”

Brian cut off his words as his lips crushed Justin’s.  Soon they were on the floor rolling on the rug, taking turns at the top position until Brian ended up on his stomach and Justin was above him.

“Sunshine, make love to me. I want you to.” 

Justin put on a condom and then moved slowly as he moved inward.  Brian made a noise of pure pleasure as Justin began to move and both men climaxed for a second time that night.  Later they lay on the rug with a blanket pulled over them. “Will you move in, Brian? I want  you to be a part of our lives, in every way.”

“I can’t think of something I would rather do.”

“We will need to set some rules of the house.  I mean we will both be working long hours.  We need to set a time we must be home and if there is a reason we will be late we will let the other one know.”

“Of course, Sunshine.  We  need to do that.  I hate the thought of Aiden being with a babysitter so much.  I mean I know kids these days usually are and, hell, it would have been better for me to be with someone other than my parents but…”

“Brian, what would you think of my mom moving in with us? We would still need a babysitter part time but I think Mom would be willing to cut back on her hours at work and if she lived with us she wouldn’t need to work as much.  Of course that means when Molly comes home from school she would be here, too.”

“I think that is a perfect answer.  She could take the room downstairs so she has some privacy but if we are running late Aiden will have his grandma.”

“You’re sure? I mean, not every man wants his mother in law moving in.”

“The house is big enough for all of us and if she is willing I love the idea. Aiden deserves all the love and care he can get.”

“We could expand your mom’s room so she has room for a small sitting area.”

“Damn, I do love you.” Brian pulled Justin tightly against him. “I often think I should have stayed for the fight.  We wouldn’t have missed out on the last three years.”

“That’s true but you wouldn’t have Aiden and after meeting him, I don’t know if I could live without him.”

“Speaking of Aiden, he is going to be so happy when he sees you.  He’s been asking for you in his own way.”

“Well, may I suggest we get some sleep and then tomorrow, maybe we could take him to the zoo?”

“Maybe not, since it is supposed to be 100° but he will be thrilled just to spend the day with you.”

“Ya, the zoo will have to wait.  We could go to your new office and get it ready for your first day Monday.” Brian suggested.

“That actually would be helpful.  I didn’t want to spend the day away from him but if it was just me and him, I wouldn’t get anything done.”

“Well, Daddy, let’s get some sleep.” Brian nuzzled Justin’s neck and kissed him below his ear before relaxing against the pillow.  Soon they were both sleeping soundly.

When Brian woke up he heard Justin talking. “Hi, sweet boy.  Daddy will be home in a little while.  You eat breakfast for Grandma and then I will be home.  I have a surprise for you.” Brian walked up behind Justin and slipped his arms around him. He lifted Justin’s robe and let his erection slide along the valley between Justin’s cheeks. “Um, Mom, we’ll be there in about an hou…. Oh, god.” Justin hung up on Jenn as Brian thrust into him.  

Justin drove home. Brian was going to pack some of his clothes and he would be there within the hour.  As soon as he walked into the house, Aiden came running to him and wrapped his arms around Justin’s legs.  Justin scooped him up and threw him into the air as Aiden giggled loudly.

“Don’t blame me if he throws up on you.  He just finished breakfast.” Jenn walked in from the kitchen.  “Since you are home, I got a call about running into the office.  I will call later and see what your plans are.”

“Brian will be moving his stuff in.”

“Oh, Justin, I am so happy for all of you.”

“Mom, think about it but if you would be interested in moving in here, we would love it.  Brian was already talking about expanding the room off the kitchen.”

“I was wondering if you were serious about that.  I had a thought myself.  When Molly was still here last night I went up above the garage.  I thought I remembered this place saying something about an apartment.  There is one above the garage.  It would be perfect for me and Molly, when she is around. It needs a little upkeep and a good cleaning but….”

“Done.  I am sure Brian and his connections can get that done.”

“Sounds like this is going to work out well for all of us and after your phone call this morning, I think a little more privacy might be a good thing.” 

“I love you, Mom.  I don’t know what I would have done without you the last year.”

“I would do anything for you, Justin, just like you would do anything for Aiden.”

“I understand that now.  I would do anything for him.” He kissed his son who was squirming to get away.

“I am just happy things seem to be on the right path. I’m glad you finally realized he deserved a chance.”

“I always knew I loved him and I knew he loved me but I wasn’t sure love was enough.”

“Love has to be enough.  You give your all to the one you love and if you are both giving it all, it will work. Just let him know how you feel.  Brian isn’t good at reading your mind but he is good at coming up with solutions so talk to him.  You know how much I love you but you do have a tendency to shut down rather than talk it out.”

“Mom, remind me of that if I need it.”

“I will.  But I can see you know that yourself.  Now, I am out of here.  I don’t plan to be back today unless you need something.”

“I think we can manage and I will have Brian check out the apartment.”

Brian pulled up and unloaded his car.    He set everything at the front door and then knocked.  Justin answered the door, kissing Brian lightly.  Brian immediately started looking around for Aiden.

“I can tell I need to get used to being second in your life.”

“You will always be first in my life but we both need to put him first for now. So where is he?” 

Justin took his hand and led him around the corner where, the second he came around the corner he saw him.  Aiden was standing in a play pen and above him there was a sign. ‘Welcome home, Baba.”

“Oh, Aiden.”

As Brian crossed the room and picked him up, Aiden was babbling, “Babababababa,” and he stretched toward Brian.  

Brian lifted the little boy, “I have missed you so much.”

Justin’s heart melted when he saw the tears in Brian’s eyes.  He really did love his son.  Maybe he needed to practice saying 'their son.’  Justin kissed Aiden’s cheek and then Brian’s.  “Why don’t you two get reacquainted and I will take up some of your…”

“You don’t have to do that, Sunshine.”

“I know I don’t have to but I want to.”

“Before I forget, before I got here, I got a call from Lindsay.  They are coming home next weekend.  They are actually talking about moving back to Pittsburgh.  I get the feeling there is something she didn’t tell me but next weekend we will have Gus here.  I can’t wait for him to meet Aiden.”

“What do you think is going on with Lindsay and Mel?” 

“If I had to guess, they have been struggling. Gus doesn’t say much but I know how hard it was on him when we split.  Well, he may have to struggle through that again.  I offered to take Gus if they wanted to work on their marriage and no parent wants that but if they really  want it all to work, they may have to. Oh, Sunshine, I’m sorry.  I should have asked you before I offered…”

“Brian, our kids make us who we are.  Gus is always welcome.”

“I was just thinking the house is going to be crowded if your mom…”

“Oh, I almost forgot.  Come with me.”

“Well, what is your daddy up to?” Brian followed Justin out the back door and then started moving toward the garage.  

Justin stopped in his tracks. “There’s an apartment up there, isn’t there? I had totally forgotten!”

“Mom remembered seeing it in the specs for the place.  It is perfect for her and there is room for Molly when she visits.”

“Hey, big guy, can you go to your daddy for a minute?” Aiden protested a second but then he went to Justin.  Brian looked under the sink and then went to the electrical panel. “Thank god.”

“Are you trying to tell me you know anything about plumbing and electrics?”

“What I know is they both look updated.  About five years ago the house owners had major repairs done, planning on moving in but they ended up having to move out of town.  They had all the major work done.  I will call my contractor and see if he can squeeze us in for a couple days' work and one of the guys at the Safe Place has a lot of talent in this area so I think he can do a lot of the finishing work for us.”

“Oh, Bri, this is so perfect. I mean look at that open ceiling work.  Do you think we can keep it that way? It makes the place feel so much bigger.” 

“I am sure they can do something.  You’re right, it does give the place character.  It has two bedrooms up here.  Your mom could make the second into a multi use room that can be maybe a home office but have either a Murphy bed or sofa bed in it.”

“Oh, this is perfect.  She will be with us but we all will have our own space.”

“Let’s head to your office so you can get some final things done and this guy and I can make some phone calls.”

By the time they got home, it was late in the afternoon, and Aiden was fussy.  Justin was tired from setting up his office and he sighed as he picked up a crying Aiden out of the car seat.  Brian walked around and took Aiden from him.  “I think you need a hot bath and a cold drink.  I’ll give this guy a snack and then put him down for a nap.” 

They walked into the house and Justin turned and kissed Brian. “I love you, Brian.”  With that he walked up the steps.

“You know boy, if you think this will scare me off, you are wrong.  You and your daddy are stuck with me until the end of time. Now, let’s get you a treat.  Let’s get you some applesauce cheerios.  Sounds good to me.”

Brian’s calm voice had Aiden looking at him quizzically and by the time Brian set the food in front of him in his high chair, he had stopped crying and began eating cereal while Brian gave him a bite of applesauce and then took a bite himself.  “Your daddy has a headache.  He won’t admit it but I could see it in his beautiful eyes.”

By the time the treats were gone, Aiden’s head was sagging. “Let’s go take a nap little guy.  Rather than putting him in the playpen to sleep Brian sat in the overstuffed chair and draped the already snoozing little boy over his chest.  He dropped one hand to the side to stroke GC’s head while the other arm was wrapped tightly around the new love of his life.  

Forty-five minutes later, Brian stirred and looked at the clock.  He hoped Aiden would have had enough sleep to be happy for a couple hours before going to bed for the night.  Aiden looked up at him and grinned with his little teeth showing.  “Babababa.”

“Let’s change your backside and then we can go in the backyard for a while.”  

Brian was pushing the swing when he noticed GC look at the house and turned to see Justin walking out.  Brian almost forgot he was pushing Aiden.  The only word he could think of was soft.  He wanted to rush over to him and kiss him until they made love in the grass.  His skin was flushed from resting and his hair was mussed.

“Look who’s here, Aiden.”

“Dadada,” he said and then giggled. 

“Hey, you two.  Thanks for letting me sleep.”

“How’s your headache?” Brian pulled him into his arms and kissed him.

“How’d you know?”

“I know you. Is it better?”

“It is a lot better.  I’ll go start dinner.”

“Don’t.  I have ordered in.  It will be here in half an hour.”

Justin wrapped his arms around Brian’s waist and rested his head on his chest. “Brian, let’s get married.”

Brian pushed him to arms length and looked into his eyes. “Sunshine, you aren’t kidding are you? You are serious, right?”

“Yes, the sooner the better.”

“Well, we can’t get a license until Monday and then we have to wait a minimum of three days.”

Justin walked over to Aiden who was ready to get out of the swing and then they turned to face Brian, “Well, I think this little one is all in but I think we should talk to Gus before we get married again.  This can affect him, too, especially if he moves in with us.”

“I know he will be excited but you're right.  We will get the license over lunch sometime this week and then, once Gus gives us his blessing, we can plan a weekend wedding sometime.  We can take our boys and get married before spending time with them.”

“Can we really do this? Should we be doing this?”  Justin walked back to Brian and leaned against him.

“I think we were meant to break up for a few reasons.  It shocked me to my senses and got me to organize Safe Place.  And you needed to leave so you could bring this guy back to us.”  Brian leaned down and kissed Justin but soon Aiden was trying to push them apart.  “Young man, that is one behavior I will not accept.  You cannot stop your daddy and me from kissing.  I need that to breathe.”

“Don’t lie to the boy.” Justin laughed.

“Who’s lying? I felt like I couldn’t breathe the last three years and ever since Montana, it has been so much easier.”

Two hours later Aiden was asleep in his bed and Brian and Justin were sitting on the loveseat in their bedroom. “It will be so nice when it cools off and we can light this fireplace.” Justin said as he leaned into Brian.

“It will, how’s your headache?”

“Mostly gone.  Being able to lay down for that hour was what I needed and I didn’t have to worry about Aiden because I knew he was in good hands.” He brought Brian’s hand to his mouth and kissed the palm.  He then moved to the hollow of his throat and then he brought his mouth to Brian’s.  He pushed Brian back so he was half laying half sitting.  Justin moved so they were lying chest to chest. They managed to take off their shirts so they relaxed skin to skin.  “Why are we on this cozy couch when there is a massive bed right over there?” Brian smiled and he brushed Justin’s hair out of his face.

Justin stood and offered his hand to Brian.  Soon they were in bed naked.  “Brian, are you sure you are ready to do this again?”

“I don’t have any doubt.  Gus won’t either.  You know he loves you.  When you left I honestly thought he loved you more than me and I understand that.  I treated you like shit.”

“That’s over.  We both had some maturing to do and now, we are both ready to be fathers.  I really hope Lindsay and Mel will let him stay with us for a while.  Lindsay emailed and said she is moving with or without Mel.  Whether he lives with us full time or just part time will depend on whether or not Mel comes, too.  If she does, I am going to fight to get Gus to stay with us most of the time.  I don’t want Gus to live in their caos.  I would have never had him stay with us when we were falling apart.  I think they get that. They may not care for each other right now but they both love our son.”

“I agree but we should support them if we can.”

“I know,” Brian’s hand slipped under the sheet and traveled slowly and playfully down Justin’s chest, first circling his nipples and then moving down to his navel. As his fingers travelled down his glory trail Justin’s whole body shivered. “Justin, do you trust me?”

“You know I do, why?”

“I haven’t been with anyone but you in six months. I tested clean just last week.”

“Yes, Brian, I don’t want anything between us.  Not now, not ever.”

“Make love to me and tomorrow we will tell everyone our news before moving more of your stuff in.” Justin laid on his back.

“There is nothing I would rather do.”  As Justin held his knees and Brian moved into position, he bent and kissed him as he invaded him.  “Damn, how did I live without you?”  Neither of them talked as they made love and when they lay side by side, fingers entwined. Brian looked over and said, “I think I just figured it out.”

“What did you figure out, Bri.”

“How I lived without you.”

“And what did you decide?” Justin rolled so his head rested on Brian’s chest.

“I wasn’t really living. This is what gives me life, you and now your son.” Brian kissed the top of his head.  “I love you more now than I ever did before.”

As Justin brought his mouth to Brian’s they heard Aiden fuss, “We will have to teach that boy about timing.” Justin kissed him as he got up.  

“We’ll work on that.”

Chapter 6

Brian paced back and forth.  “Bri, why are you so nervous?  It is Gus, not a major business meeting.”

“I know but he is moving just before fifth grade back to a different country.  His moms’ have been fighting nonstop for a couple months and now his dad is going to tell him he is getting back together with his other dad and he is going to have a new brother.”

Justin made him stop pacing and kissed him.  “We can enjoy our weekend.  Mom is going to help Mel and Lindsay find a place to live and Gus will be here without the stress of them being around.”

“We can tell him we are getting married again and, when the time is right, we can ask him about moving in with us.  Lindz and I decided it has to be his choice but she said he is very frustrated with the situation and she thinks he will choose to stay with us. He may be touchy and in a bad mood.”

“I understand that.  I just hope he can feel comfortable here.” As Aiden toddled over and reached up to Brian they heard a car pull up.  Justin kissed Brian’s cheek.  “He doesn’t know anything about us, right? Do you want us to hide?”

“Why don’t you just stand out of sight in the kitchen.  I want to see his reaction to Aiden.” The bell rang and Brian walked to the door.

“Dad! Cool house!” Gus was saying as the door opened and then he stopped talking and looked at the little boy. “Um, Dad.  Did you forget to tell me something?”  As Brian hugged his son with one arm Aiden patted Gus’ head.

“Babababa.” Aiden called out.

“Does he want a bottle?” Gus looked at Aiden and then at his dad.

“No, that’s what Aiden calls me.  Are your mom’s coming in?”

“Not right now. They aren’t talking again so Mama dropped me off while Mom went with Grandma Jenn to look for a house.”

“Did you talk to Jenn?”

“No, Mom went out to meet her.  Aiden! That’s Justin’s baby’s name. Is Justin here?” Gus said excitedly.

“Gee, Dad, it’s nice to see you.  I’ve missed you so much.”

“Ya, what you said.  Is Justin here?” 

Justin came around the corner and smiled at Gus, “Hey, Gus!  Surprise!” Gus rushed to him and hugged him.

“Well, Aiden, I can tell we are just chopped liver.”

“Chopped liver, Dad? What the hell are you talking about?”

“I am sure you moms don’t appreciate when you swear,” Brian commented.

“Oh, give me a break.  You swear.  Trust me, they swear at each other all the time. What’s a boy to do?”

Justin had to hug his stepson.  “I don’t know if I’m supposed to tell you yet but your dad and I are getting remarried.”

Gus forgot he was supposed to be a cool kid but he hugged Justin tightly.  “Really? You two are going to get married?”

“I hope you don’t mind.” Brian walked over and slipped his arm around Justin.  After you left the cabin, Justin showed up a little early and well, there was a minor flood and I was stuck there a few extra days and well.”

“You screwed and fell back in love?”

“Oh, Gus,” Justin said as he and Brian started laughing.  “And, yes, this is Aiden.  I hope you are up for being a big brother.”

“He looks like you.  He doesn’t have a mom, right?  He could have mine right now.”  Gus mumbled.

“Gus, why don’t I show you your room and your dad can change Aiden’s diaper.  That face he just pulled…”

Brian held Aiden’s bottom up to his face, “Oh, god.  Aiden, what did you eat?” 

Justin picked up Gus’ bag while Gus laughed hysterically. He put his hand on Gus’ back and walked up the stairs together. Justin first showed Gus the master and then the nursery before going to the room at the end of the hall.  “I know there is no character but this room is all yours so you can decorate it anyway you want.”

“Justin, did Mom talk to you about me living here?”

“Well, she talked to your dad about it. We would love it if you moved in with us but it is up to you.  We just want you to be wherever you are happy.”

“Justin is it wrong of me to want my moms to get divorced? I mean I love them both but…” Gus threw his arms around Justin’s waist and buried his face in Justin’s chest. Justin’s heart broke for the boy. 

“Oh, Gus,” he wrapped his arms around the boy and held him close.  “You know all of us love you but I understand your moms are having trouble right now.”

“Even when you and Dad were having trouble you never acted like they do.”

“First of all, you didn’t live with us all the time so you don’t know how bad it got some time but every relationship is different.  I didn’t stay and fight for our marriage.  I was impulsive and just ran.  At least your moms are fighting for their marriage.”

“Fighting is the right word.  Can I really live here?”

“I think they have said you could.  I’m not your bio dad so I can’t say too much about it but we want you here.  We hope you’ll want to come to our wedding.”

Gus stepped away and turned his back so he could wipe his eyes. “Is your wedding in Pittsburgh?”

“Actually, we are planning on going to the Poconos, to a water park.  We will schedule our wedding for Friday afternoon and then we will have until Sunday to hang out and swim.  You and your dad can do some of the big slides and I will stay back in the kiddy pool with Aiden.”

“When is this happening?” Gus had excitement in his voice.

“We are hoping it will happen before the end of September.  We have to  get someone to marry us so whenever we can manage that we will get everything scheduled.”

“Justin, don’t you and Dad want to have your honeymoon alone? I mean you two will want to…”

“Yes, we will.” Brian strode in with Aiden on his hip. “And that is why we will get a whole cabin or a suite so we have our own rooms.”

“I can watch Aiden.” Gus said standing up straight to look older.

“Of course you can help,” Justin said as he took Aiden from Brian and Brian walked over to Gus.

“We are going to invite Jenn and Molly to come.” Brian said.

“We are?” Justin said surprised.

“Of course, they are your family.  I have a feeling Molly won’t make it because she will be at school by then.”

“Ya, and it might be nice to have Mom around to help with Aiden.  He may not enjoy the water park as long as we want to stay.” Justin kissed his son.  “Would it be alright with you if my mom came along, Gus?”

“You’re asking me my opinion?”

“Of course I am.  As a part of our family everyone gets a voice.  You have to realize we are still the parents and have to have the final say but, I know I want your opinion if it is appropriate and this is something fun for the whole family and you are part of the family.”

Gus looked up at his dad, “Dad, I can live here, right?”

“It is fine with me but your moms have full custody of you so we will need to get some paperwork that gives us guardianship, too.”

Gus started looking around the room.  Do you think we could maybe put a loft bed in here?”

“Gus, as soon as I make sure everything is settled with your moms, we can sit down with a friend of mine and you can tell him exactly what you want in our room.  He has started on Jenn’s apartment in the garage…”

“You are making Grandma Jenn stay in the garage?”

“There is a real apartment built above it. She is excited about moving in there. It will be very nice for her and for us so she can help with Aiden and you a little bit even though you don’t need help like he does.” Brian made sure he clarified that.  

They left Gus to settle in a bit and Brian and Justin laid Aiden down for a nap and ended up flopping on the bed themselves.  

“So how is Gus really doing? I am sure you talked to him before I got up here.”

“He is definitely a little shook up about his moms.  I think a little space will be good.  They need to spend time with him obviously but they have to have a truce while they are with him.”

“They know that.  They know he needs time off.  I think we are his safe place to land.” Brian kissed Justin.  “Thank you for letting him have that here.”

Justin rolled and threw his leg over Brian’s hip so their cocked pressed together through their pants. “Bri, I love him.  He is part of you so he is part of me.”

“Ok, I should have knocked.  You two can go ahead and do well, whatever.  I’m going to go play with GC in the yard.” Gus was considerate and tried to talk softly since Aiden was right next door.

“Ok, Gus. Just stay in the backyard with him.  We will be out in a little bit,”  Brian said, looking over Justin’s shoulder.

Once Gus was downstairs, Brian smiled slyly. “You game for a quickie.”

“I’m always ready.” Justin’s hands were already undoing Brian’s fly.

The next two weeks were busy.  Justin had hired Brian’s suggested employee and the business, partially thanks to Brian’s referrals, was busier than he could have imagined.  Brian volunteered to plan the wedding.  He had Jenn help him and soon everything was planned and Justin was completely in the dark.  

Both Jenn and Gus had moved in and Gus had started school.  There had been a few tense moments and a major meltdown the first week but by the end of the second, they were getting their schedule down and they sat down together for dinner every night at 7:00 pm. Jenn had decided to take some time off so she was babysitting for them at the moment while they worked to find the perfect daycare.

Brian had notified the school that Gus wouldn’t be there on Friday and Ted was going to take care of GC.  Justin called Brian on Thursday that he wouldn’t make it home for dinner and as Gus, Brian and Aiden sat down for dinner without him, Brian was a little irritated.  He took the casserole out of the oven that Jenn had started and set it on the table.  He took some out to cool for Aiden and then dished up some for Gus before putting some on his own plate. Gus started eating but kept glancing up at Brian who was mostly silent as he fed Aiden and himself. As he reached to give Aiden another bite he knocked his beer over.

“Shit!” He jumped up and grabbed a towel to wipe up his mess.  “So much for having dinner together.”

Gus’ swirled his food on the plate and Brian finally said, “Are you going to eat that or just make it dizzy?”

Gus stopped moving his fork and looked up at Brian, “Are you mad at Justin? Please don’t be mad at him.  You are supposed to get married tomorrow.”

“If you’re done eating, why don’t you go get packed.  You’ll need a couple swim trunks and jeans and shirts.” Brian didn’t look at him as he cleaned Aiden’s tray and gave him a couple bites he could feed himself and he started clearing the table.  Gus slipped out of the room and went straight to his room.  

Justin arrived home just as Brian was taking Aiden out of the bath. He could feel Brian’s irritation as he walked in. “Hey, boys.” Justin kissed Aiden’s cheek but when he turned to kiss Brian he handed Aiden to Justin and walked out of the room. “Are you ready for a trip tomorrow, Aid? I hope you’re ready to sleep after I read you a story so I can make nice with your baba.”

Fifteen minutes later Justin tiptoed out of Aiden’s room and into the bedroom.  He walked into the bedroom to find Brian sitting with a suitcase on the bed but it was empty. “Let’s get it over with. I’m sorry I was late but I am starting a new business and taking a day off tomorrow.  I needed to get things in order.”

“A month ago we were going to have dinner together with our kids.  Now, you barely made it home in time to put our son to bed.”

“Come on, Brian that isn’t fair.  And look who’s talking.  We would have never gotten divorced if you had come home on time at night and yours was nightly.”  Justin’s voice was now getting louder.  

“You would think you would learn from my mistakes.  I thought we were getting married tomorrow but maybe we need to ….”

“STOP IT! Stop fighting.  You need to love each other not break up again!” Gus rushed back toward his own room.

“Damn,” Brian said under his breath. He took a step toward the door but Justin gently took his arm.  

“Let me.  We’ll talk when I come back.” He kissed Brian’s cheek and followed Gus. Justin knocked on Gus’ door and opened it, “May I come in?”

Gus didn’t respond but he didn’t say no so Justin walked in.  “I’m sorry you heard us fighting but I’m afraid that’s going to happen from time to time.  Your dad and I have always fought. We always have done that but that doesn’t mean we don’t love you or that we don’t love each other.”  Justin moved across the room and sat next to Gus, putting an arm around him.  “I know you have had too much fighting lately.  Your moms are trying to work it out.  Gus, we all love you. I’m sorry I was late tonight.  I promise not to make a practice of it.”

“You let Dad know.  He overreacted.”

“Maybe he did a bit but that’s because he is nervous for tomorrow.  Trust me, we are madly in love and since we had a fight, we will also enjoy making up.”

“I don’t want to know about that.” Gus took a facial tissue and blew his nose and wiped his eyes.”

“Gus, just remember your dad and I are both very passionate about everything we do so we tend to do everything too big and too loud.  If your dad and I were really in trouble we wouldn’t be talking at all.” Justin kissed the top of his head.  “Kid, I’m here for you, no matter what. Your dad and I are a permanent deal, I promise. And now, do you need help packing?”

Ten minutes later after Justin had added underwear and socks to Gus’ bag he hugged his step-son and kissed his cheek.  “I’ll send your dad in to say goodnight.”

“Justin?”

“Yes, Gus?”

“I love you.”

“Oh, Gus, I have always loved you.”

Justin walked to the master where Brian was pacing but his suitcase was packed now.  He grasped for Justin and pulled him close and hugged him.  “I’m sorry.  I over reacted.”

“We both did.  Go assure your son there will be a wedding tomorrow….there will be a wedding tomorrow, right?”

‘Oh, Sunshine, of course there will be.  God, I love you.” Brian’s mouth descended on Justin’s mouth and they enjoyed the flavor of each other.  

“Brian, don’t forget where we were but you need to go say goodnight to Gus and reassure him the wedding is still on. I’m going to go grab something to eat but will be right back.” They kissed once more at the top of the steps before they parted.

A half hour later Brian and Justin laid in bed.  “I really am sorry I got home late tonight.  I don’t plan to make that a practice but one of your customers called at the last minute that something had to be done in their graphics and as good as Kate is, I needed to make sure she was on the right path.  I know she can handle finishing it now tomorrow.”

“I’m the one who should apologize.  I blew it out of proportion.  Ya, I was a little irritated that you were late but It was more that I am a little nervous about tomorrow.  What if I forgot something? I am sure I would have if it wasn’t for your mom.  I made such a mess out of our first marriage, I want this wedding to be perfect to have a good start. Justin pressed his body against Brian’s naked body.

“I love you, Brian and I can’t wait to be your husband again. But right now, I want to make love with the father of my sons.”

As Brian positioned himself he whispered, “You know I don’t know if I would handle Gus the right way without you. You always know how to handle him.”

“Brian, you have the most important thing down.  You love him with all your heart.  He just needs a little extra right now.”

“Well, you are as extra as I can ever imagine.” With that he moved into Justin.  “You are everything!”

By noon on Friday the wedding party was almost to their destination.  Brian pulled into a restaurant parking lot so they could have lunch.  The wedding was scheduled for 5:00 pm.  They had plenty of time to eat lunch and drive the last leg of the journey and then get ready for the wedding. Aiden had enjoyed the trip so far.  He was sitting between his grandma and brother so he had plenty of attention.  Part of the way Gus had put on a movie that kept Aiden’s attention until he fell asleep but he was ready to run for a little while now.  They let Aiden walk between all of them for a few minutes and then they went inside and ordered food. As they waited for their meals Gus walked around the restaurant with Aiden holding his finger. Soon every table they passed the people would talk to the cute little boys. Brian and Justin had to smile but never let them out of their sight. 

Soon the food arrived and the boys came back to the table.  As Justin fed Aiden Brian realized he wasn’t eating himself.  “Sunshine, you need to eat something.” He slipped his arm around Justin’s shoulder and whispered in his ear, “is something wrong?”

“I don’t know why but I’m nervous.” Brian stood and pulled Justin to his feet, “Jenn, we’ll be back in a few minutes. Gus you’re in charge.” Brian pulled Justin into the bathroom and then into the handicap stall. Before Justin could say anything Brian pinned him against the wall and crushed his lips with his own. When Brian moved back a step he softly said, “Damn, I love you, Sunshine.  We are going to spend the rest of our lives together with our boys and then grandkids.  We now know that running from each other is the worst thing for us and spending our lives together is the best thing in the world.”

“Oh I know, Brian, I just…” Brian pressed his hips against Jusitn and just that gesture had both of them at attention.  “I love you, too, and I know you’re right. Let’s go finish this meal and then get married.” 

“I love you, Brian.  I can’t wait to be your husband again. It will work this time.”

“I have no doubt of that because we both know we can’t do it alone.”

When they sat back down Gus leaned over to Brian and whispered, “You didn’t do it in the bathroom, did you?”

“No, Gus, we’re too old for that kind of stuff.” Gus rolled his eyes.

Jenn, who had finished eating said, “Why don’t I take Aiden outside so he can stretch those little legs a little while before getting back in the car seat.  “Gus, if you want to come with us you are welcome.”

“We will be out in about ten minutes I would guess,” Brian responded as Justin started eating.

“You have plenty of time.” Jenn smiled and as she held Aiden in one arm she patted Brian’s shoulder as she walked past. Gus went out with Jenn and Aiden walked between them. 

“Grandma Jenn, do you ever get embarrassed because of things my dad says.”

“You know, Gus, I might have at first but, you know, now that I have gotten to know him and know what a good person he is and how much he loves my son and grandsons.  That doesn’t mean he is a little much sometimes but that makes him who he is.” Jenn smiled down at Gus, “And dads are supposed to embarrass their kids.”

“Ya, I guess so.  I think I am pretty lucky to have dads so cool….most of the time.”

“They will make mistakes but they love you and they love each other.”

“I know they do.  And here they come so we can make our family legal.”

An hour later they were entering one of their suites.  Jenn and Brian had talked to Gus about it earlier and he said he didn’t mind sleeping in the suite with Jenn because he had his own bedroom and TV.  Aiden was also going to be sleeping in there but that was a surprise for Justin.  Brian and Justin had their own whirlpool suite with a fireplace just down the hall. 

“This is a very nice place.  And look at this room, Gus.  You can sleep on the top or bottom bunk and there’s your TV.”

“I can hang here,” he said as he climbed up to the top bunk.  

“Well, Gus, do you want me to help…”  Justin started saying.

“I can dress myself and I’m sure Grandma Jenn can help me with my hair if it looks bad. I’ll get in the shower now.” Gus climbed back down and dug through his bag.

“Well, I’ll take Aiden, Mom, so…”

“I can take care of him.  See, we have the crib.  I will lay him down for a nap and I can get ready while he sleeps.  Then I can get him dressed.  You two go on.  You have a couple hours to relax and get ready to get married.”

Justin walked over and hugged his mom.  “Thanks, Mom.  I love you.”

“I love you too, honey.”

Brian ruffled Gus’ hair as he went past him to the bathroom and then Brian took Justin’s hand and they left for their suite. Justin rested his head against Brian’s shoulder as they walked. Justin pressed Brian against the door and kissed him before they could get the door open.  Brian moved the card in front of the censor and as the door opened they nearly fell on the floor.

“I ….” Justin cut Brian off by claiming his lips again.  Brian gently pushed him away.  “Sunshine, I think…. Am i saying this? Let’s wait until after the wedding. Let’s relax on bed and…”

“You want me to lay in bed with you and not do anything?”

“I didn’t say we wouldn’t do anything.” Brian pushed him backward and as he dropped onto the bed beside him. They positioned themselves so they half laid half sat, leaning against the headboard. Brian picked up the remote and found a station that just had music playing. “Now, as I was saying,” Brian placed his hand behind Justin’s head and slowly added pressure so their lips just grazed each other and then Brian slowly began to probe Justin’s mouth with his tongue. Justin gently slid his tongue over Brian’s and then gave himself over to him.  They tasted and touched until they drifted off.  

“Shit, Brian!  We fell asleep!  Our wedding is in thirty minutes!” Justin and Brian jumped in the shower to freshen up and then quickly pulled on their clothes.  Brian took time to quickly call Jenn’s suite and let her know they were running late but they would meet them at the car in ten minutes. Brian and Justin quickly combed and styled there hair and when Justin started to fret a bit and Brian turned him to face him and, using his fingers, mussed it up a bit but then took the comb and touched it up.

“That is perfect.  You are perfect.  Are you ready to do this?”

“I am.  I love you, Brian Kinney.”

“I love you. Now, let’s go do this.”  

The ceremony included the officiant and the wedding party.  Jenn had been in charge of the rings and she passed them to Gus, the Best Man, just before it started.  And after the official words were said the speaker said, “Brian, is there anything you would like to say to Justin and then give him his ring?”

“Oh Sunshine, thank you for giving me a second chance. The three years we were apart showed me I never want to be without you again.  I can’t put how much I love you into words and you know I love Aiden to the moon and back.”  Brian reached down and touched Gus’ arm.  Gus handed him Justin’s ring.  “Justin Taylor, I will love you throughout eternity. You are more beautiful inside than out and that is hard to accomplish.  Please accept these rings as a token of my love and loyalty.”

Justin mouthed the words, “Rings?” He held out his hand and Brian slipped on their original band that was now fitted in between two very thin bands that looked like vines.  They encased the original band. “Oh, Brian. It is amazing.”

“Justin, the original band is the love that we have always had for each other but we have added to our family and the vines represent our two boys and how they are entwined with us to make us one.”

It took a minute for Justin to compose himself, “Oh, Brian, how do I follow that? I love you.  I love our sons.  It won’t be easy but nothing worth having is.  And, Gus, I hope you will let me be another dad.  I love you.” Justin reached over and hugged Gus.  “I hope you have a ring for me to give your dad.” 

Gus handed him the ring and said softly, “I love you, too, Justin.”

Justin slipped the ring on Brian’s finger and the registrar smiled at the men.  “Well, it isn’t required to be official but if you would like to seal the ceremony with a kiss, now is the time as I pronounce you legally married by the authority granted to me by the state of Pennsylvania. 

Justin stepped into Brian’s open arms and Brian bent him backwards as he kissed him. And then Jenn with Aiden and Gus had their arms around them both. Brian reached for Aiden and Justin rested a hand on Gus’ shoulder.  Jenn let the new family have a little space.  The registrar needed a signature from Jenn as Gus was too young to officially sign as the witness and once the registrar notarized it they were officially a family.

The small party walked together to the nearby restaurant.  They were escorted to a table where they found a small wedding cake Jenn had ordered for them.  As they waited for their food to arrive, Gus looked at his dads.  “I know I’m just a kid but I know I’m glad I have both of you.  Grandma and I talked and as soon as we are done eating and having our cake we are taking Aiden to our suite and we will see you again tomorrow morning at 10:00.  I’ll help Grandma with Aiden and we will take care of our own breakfast.”

“You don’t have to do that.” Justin reacted quickly.  “Mom, I know Gus is good help but you don’t have to…”

“Justin, we will be fine.” Jenn said as their orders arrived.  The plates were set down in front of each of them including a plate of mashed potatoes and a chicken breast for Aiden.”  Justin cut the meat into small pieces and fed him  as he ate himself in between bites.

“Justin, why don’t you let me feed him. I…..”

“Mom, I know he is just down the hall but this is the first night I won’t be with him since he came home from the hospital.  That may sound crazy but I already miss him.”

“Sunshine, if you want him to sleep with us….” Brian started to say.

“No,” Justin said as he smiled at Brian, leaning over and kissing him.  “I know tonight is for us and Gus and Mom can handle Aiden, and I am betting you will help take my mind off of our boys.”

“I will do my best.” Brian almost leered at Justin as he slid his hand between Justin’s thighs and then kissed him fiercely.

“Come on, Dads, we’re in public here.” Gus said in a whiny voice but he smiled at his dads when they broke apart.”  They finished their meal and then it was time for Brian and Justin to cut their cake. They cut the cake together and then they gave each other a bite.  They both got distracted as the other licked the frosting off each other’s fingers. 

“I think it’s time I take the boys to our suite.  You two, well…” Jenn smiled as Brian and Justin continued to kiss forgetting they still had company. “Um, Brian, Justin, do you want to say goodbye to your sons?”

“Oh, ya,” Brian smiled as he separated from Justin.  They got up and everyone gave hugs and kisses.  Gus was thrilled when his dads told him to carry  the cake back to their room and he could have another piece before bed.  

“Mom, call us if you need anything.”

“Honey, with Gus’ help I think I can handle Aiden.  Now, we will talk to you in the morning and will expect you ready at 10:00.”

“Thank you, Jenn, for everything.” Brian gave his mother in law a hug and kissed her cheek. “I couldn’t have pulled all this off without you.”

“Just be good to my son,” She whispered in his ear.

“I will do my very best, Jenn.”

Brian and Justin watched Jenn and Gus walk out.  Jenn was carrying Aiden while Gus carried the boxed up cake.  Brian signed the bill and Justin and Brian walked out of the restaurant hand in hand.   

“Brian, I forgot a bag in the back of the SUV.  If you want to go to the suite, I’ll be up in a few minutes.”

“I’ll go with you.  I could use a breath of fresh air.”

The weather was cooling off and as they walked, Brian wrapped his arm tightly around Justin’s waist and pulled him against his hip. They didn’t speak as they walked.  The car was parked in a dark corner of the lot but when they got there, Brian tilted Justin’s head back so he could see the sky.  There were millions of stars visible and they stood in each other’s arms as they leaned against the vehicle and continued to look.

“It is so beautiful.  It reminds me of being at the cabin.  I wish we could have gone there to get married but none of us had time to do that.”  Justin rested his head on Brian’s shoulder

“You know it doesn’t matter.  We are married.  We have two days to spend with our sons and,” Brian kissed Justin so gently he could only beg for more.  Brian stepped back and opened the SUV to grab the bag. “Let’s go to the room.”

“Oh, yes, I want my husband to make love to me.” Justin said as his hand rested on Brian’s ass.

“My pleasure, my love.”

It was late in the evening when Brian and Justin climbed out of bed and dropped into the whirlpool tub in the room.  Justin relaxed against Brian’s chest as he sat between his legs.  They didn’t say anything, lost in their own thoughts for several minutes.

Finally, Brian said, “I dreamt of this so many times.  Just to feel you in my arms again was more than I thought would ever happen but now….You have made me the happiest man in the world.”

“Brian, I have had a few lovers in my time but no one has ever come close to giving me the feeling you do.  And it might have taken me awhile to realize the reason was because you mean something to me.  You are the only one who not only made my body hum but my soul too.”

“Turn around, Sunshine.” The oversized tub was large enough for Justin to turn and face Brian, wrapping his legs around Brian’s waist.  He lifted himself up enough for Brian to position himself and then Justin slowly lowered himself onto his erection. He absorbed the pain and then Brian saw him find the pleasure.  “Oh shit, Justin, we don’t have a condom.”

“We are both safe. We’ve been tested and my darling husband, I have not been with anyone since the cabin. Have you?”

“No, Sunshine. I…” Brian stopped talking as Justin began to move up and down in long slow strokes. “No one else could even match up to you.  They never could.” Brian started to thrust upward in time to Justin’s downward movement and it was only a couple more movements before together they climaxed.  Justin shot cum all over Brian and Brian filled Justin before they both collapsed against the back of the tub, Justin laying across Brian’s chest. He held Justin close.

Later they both rinsed off and after pulling on the plush robes supplied they moved in front of the fireplace.  They turned it on with the flip of a switch and just sat in the loveseat in front of it.  They spoke about their dreams for their life together.  They talked about their boys and their hopes for their lives. It was after midnight when they fell into the king sized bed and as they drifted off to sleep in each other’s arms, their lips brushing against each other every so often. 

Justin softly said, “Brian, as happy as I know you are, why do I feel like there is something wrong? If it’s Gus, he is doing well.  We will get in touch with the counselor Victor suggested.”

Brian didn’t say anything, but he put a little more space between them before saying, “I’m just so glad your mom is involved with our boys and I am so glad my mom is nowhere to be found.  I’m not wallowing in what is missing.  I am thankful for that. Our boys are going to only know love and acceptance and if Lindsay and Mel don’t pull their shit together I will press for limited contact.  I maybe wasn’t the best father when Gus was little but thanks to you, I will never neglect him again.”

With that said they kissed once more.  Justin turned over and Brian draped his arm over him as they drifted off into dreams of the perfect life to come.

Chapter 7

Sunday afternoon the family headed home.  Gus couldn’t stop talking about the amazing waterslides and the wave pool.  Justin and Brian had taken turns spending time with Gus and Aiden.  Jenn enjoyed the time  between swimming herself or being with Aiden.  She took Aiden back for naps and while he slept she would check on her office and Gus had both his dads to hang out with.  

By the time they had left, Gus was still keyed up but about an hour down the road the seat was quiet.  When Justin glanced back he saw the boys were napping and his mom was reading a book.  He reached over and took Brian’s hand.  He moved it to his mouth and kissed it.  Brian looked over and smiled at him.

“Love you, Bri.  Did you remember to text Ted? Is he going to have GC back at the house when we get there?”

“He and Victor are coming by around 6:00 to bring him back.  They are picking up the key to the cabin.  They leave tomorrow for Montana.  Ted and I have to go over just a couple things.  I promise it won’t be more than an hour but since he isn’t coming into work for the next week…”

“Darling, that’s fine.  We are both business men and there are times this stuff happens.  We just have to limit it and mostly, let the other one know what is going on.”

“I know, Sunshine, I just….trust me, I’d rather be with you and the boys.”

“Do we have to have dinner for them?”

“They insisted on bringing dinner over.  I think we will be having fried chicken.  Ted told me it is one of Victor’s favorites but he doesn’t eat it unless there is a special reason.” 

Justin smiled, “I like Victor a lot.  Ted deserves someone like him.”

Brian squeezed his hand, “You’re right. He does.  Ted said he had a suggestion of a counselor for Gus.  With us getting married and his moms so shaky, everyone thinks he should have someone to vent to.”

“I agree.”  By now Jenn had dozed off, too. Justin slid his hand into Brian’s lap and began to rub his crotch. “I really am glad Ted and Victor are going to use the cabin.  It is the perfect place to really fall in love.”

Brian gently took Justin’s hand away from his lap.  “I couldn’t agree with you more. It worked for us, twice.”

“Maybe they will come back engaged or married.”

“They could.  There is no waiting period in Montana.” Brian threw out.

“Why do you know that?” Justin asked, curious.

“I looked it up.  In the three years we were apart I often thought about showing up at the cabin when I knew you were there but then you were with Dumbo…”

“Daklin…”

“Whatever.  You weren’t free so I knew it was a dream.”

“Until this year.” Now Justin started getting suspicious. 

“I told you I hung around hoping I would run into you.”

“Yes, but I didn’t know you had planned that much.”

“Sunshine, I had nothing planned except to see you.  Fate gave us the storm. I knew then that even the universe knew we were meant to be together.”

“Maybe subconsciously I hoped you would be there.  I was so tired. I was so lonely.”

“It still took you over two months to follow me.”

“Mr. Kinney, I didn’t follow you.  I had planned to come here.” Justin tried to sound miffed but he had to smile.  “I actually really hoped I would come to my senses but you were back in my blood and I knew I wouldn’t belong anywhere but with you.”

“I’m not sure if that was a dis or a compliment,” Brian smiled at Justin. “It really doesn’t matter.  We all won.”

Justin looked in the back and noticed Gus was holding Aiden’s hand and he nearly melted. “Yes, we all won.”

They stopped once more before for some ice cream and so the boys could move around for a few minutes before they drove the last hour.  They pulled into the drive about 5:00 and once they were in the house, Justin insisted his mom was off duty.

“Thank you, Mom, for everything you did this weekend.  Go take a hot bath or call Molly.  Come back down for dinner at 6:00.”

“Honey, thank you, but if you don’t mind I think I will skip dinner.  I know I have stuff to eat at my place, and nothing personal, but I need a little alone time.”

“Oh of course!  Thank you for everything you did for us this weekend.” After Justin hugged her, Brian did the same thing.

“Jenn, thank you for everything. If we ever start taking advantage of you, please tell us.”

“I will, Brian.” Jenn picked Aiden up as he walked past and gave him a hug and as put him back on the floor Gus came over and hugged her.

“Bye, Grandma.  Thanks for letting me call you that.  My other grandmas are just not as cool as you are. I love you.” Gus blushed as he grabbed his bag and ran up the steps.

“Well, now I am going to go cry with happiness and leave you alone.”  Jenn started to leave but turned around at the last minute, “Brian, he is such an amazing boy.  His moms might be struggling but they have taught him the important things like how to love and be himself.”  With that she walked into the garage garage on her way to her apartment.

Brian picked up Aiden and then wrapped his free arm around Justin. “I love you.  I love our family.” Brian kissed him and then kissed Aiden who was starting to fuss. “Do you want to take this little guy and bathe him before our company gets here? I’ll start a load of wash and open some wine.”

“Thanks, Brian.” Justin kissed him before taking Aiden and going up the steps with him.

An hour later when the doorbell rang, Justin answered it with Aiden in his arms. 

“Well, this must be Aiden,” Ted said as they walked in the door, nearly tripping over GC as he barreled up the steps and turned toward Gus’ room. Ted let Aiden take his finger. In his other hand he held a carrier.

“This is a beautiful boy,” Victor said as Aiden immediately took to him and leaned toward him. Victor looked at Justin for permission and Justin handed his son to the doctor. Ted walked through to the kitchen with a bag that could only contain food from the aroma coming from it. Brian and Victor followed into the kitchen where Brian was pouring wine.  

“It is so kind of you to lend us your cabin.” Victor commented as Justin took his son and put him in his playpen.

“I am glad you can use it.” Brian said as he handed Victor a glass of wine. It is a very special place and this time of year it is beautiful.  I hope you packed winter clothes.  The nights will get cold but there is plenty of wood and if you don’t want to mess with the fire there is heat.”

Ted sipped his wine, “I have seen so many pictures.  I can’t wait to see it. I remember when you two met up there.”

“Just beware that the weather changes quickly.” Justin slipped an arm around Brian’s waist.

“I can’t believe I haven’t asked.  How was the wedding?” Ted  asked his friends.

Brian instantly pulled Justin closer and Justin’s head dropped onto Brian’s shoulder but the voice didn’t come from either of them.  “It was really cool.  The wedding was short and the hotel and waterpark were so cool!” Gus said from the doorway.

“Hey Gus, do you remember our friend Ted?” Gus nodded to Justin.  “Well this is Ted’s friend, Dr. …”

“You can just call me, Victor, young man.” He offered his hand to Gus who shook it before walking over to his brother.

“It sounds like you had a very nice weekend.”

“We did.  It will be better when we get the paperwork signed so I have custodial rights for Gus and Brian legally adopts Aiden.  I don’t like limbo.  I mean what if gus needs to see a doctor and Brian isn’t here?”

“Well, if Brian tells me I may, I will always be willing to treat both your children.”

“Victor, whatever Justin has to say goes for me too. I trust him with my children far more than I trust myself.”

“Of course you are going to want to get it legal,” Ted said logically.

“Listen to my love.  He is right, of course.” Victor slipped his arm around Ted and kissed his cheek.

“Gus’ mom is working on that.  She should have it done for Justin to sign within a week,” Brian responded.

“And I am trying to get my ex to sign the final paperwork.  He is supposed to have done that already but since I left the state of Washington and now have moved here, there is a little bit of legal maneuvering we need to do.”

“Justin, no one can take Aiden, can they?” Gus asked nervously.

“Oh, no Gus, nothing that serious.  The judge made it clear Aiden belongs with me.  It is just that if he won’t sign the paper we have to have a judge do a little paperwork and that takes a little while.”

“Is everyone ready to eat?” Ted changed the subject and all of them sat down at the table. They all ate their fill of chicken and mashed potatoes and gravy.  

When the meal was done, Victor and Ted made a gracious exit, cabin key in hand and Gus went up to his room.  He had school in the morning.  For some reason he wasn’t dreading it as much  as he usually did.  He knew some kids would still make fun of him.  He now lived with his dads but they were married and they loved him.  That’s all that mattered to him.

Brian and Justin cleaned up the kitchen and Justin offered to switch out the laundry while he went to check in with Gus and make sure he didn’t have any homework. By the time they had both boys sleeping and they got in their own bed, Brian said, “I am going to have Cynthia hire a cleaning service for us.  Do you think if someone comes two days a week, that will be enough?”

“I think so.  Mom doesn’t mind helping out some but everything would be too much.”

“Ya, your mom doesn’t have to be folding my briefs or lack of them.” He kissed Justin’s neck and he pulled him close. “Have you heard from Mel about your custody issues.”

“No, I am meeting her for lunch tomorrow so we can get everything signed and she will send it to Dak’s lawyer.  Brian, what if he refuses to sign?”

“Then we will go to court. I’m not worried about this, Sunshine.  Derk cannot win against the two of us.”

“But what if….”

“What if we find something to distract you right now?” Moments later Brian had Justin’s cock in his mouth and his mind was only focused on that.

The next month flew by.  Halloween was quickly approaching.  Mel and Lindsay had been working really hard and seemed to be making good progress.  Gus had spent plenty of afternoons with one or both of them but he was going to be with them for Halloween weekend.  He knew his dads and his own bedroom were  just a few minutes away if anything went bad while he was there.  When Mel stopped by she was bringing some legal papers along for Justin to sign and a couple things for Brian to complete, too. 

“Hey, Mel, thanks for bringing these by.  I have been so busy at work, I hardly have time to eat a sandwich at my desk, let alone go somewhere.”

“Sounds like you could use more help.”

“I could but I hate the thought of trying to find someone with an art background that I could trust to be in charge of the actual art department.  I mean the whole place is an art department but I need someone I can trust to make sure people are on the right track and then I can do the second and final look at things.”

“Justin, I don’t want to mention the obvious but Lindsay isn’t happy where she is. She has the art background and you know you can trust her.”

“Do you think she might actually think about it?”

“Talk to her. It can’t hurt.”

“Mel, what is going on with my case in Washington?”

“Well, I just heard today that they finally served him with papers.  His lawyer has called me and said that Daklin wants to share custody if not have full custody.”

“Well, that is happening on a cold day in hell,” Brian commented as he walked into the kitchen.

“The judge agrees but because he is on the birth certificate, he does have some rights.”

“What is he asking for?” Justin asked tentatively.

“He wants shared custody, which, the way he wants it set, would mean you would have to live in Washington.”

“Well, we all know that isn’t going to happen. If it comes to money, I can take a loan out against my company.  Whatever it has to be, Aiden isn’t leaving here.”

“Just to let you know, his lawyer said Daklin is thinking about coming out here to fight this in person on this end. He has threatened to file in the Pittsburgh courts.

“Hey, Mama, I’m ready.  Are you done with my dads?” Gus stood in the door with excitement on his face. “When is the party? Are we going there now? Should I put my costume  on?”

“No, Gus, it isn’t until tomorrow night.  Tonight your mom has something planned for you though.  Give me two minutes to finish getting these papers signed.”

“Oh, I’ll go say goodbye to GC.  I kissed Aiden before I came downstairs. Grandma said she will be down soon.”

“It is so nice to hear him call her grandma. I miss him like hell but I can see how happy he is here and Lindz and I are really doing a lot better.  We both had some issues.  Some of them we knew about but some came as a surprise to both of us.  We are both to blame but we are both trying now.”

“We can tell and so can Gus.” Justin signed the last of the papers and Brian pulled him close.  It is official.  You have the right now to make decisions for Gus. We will get you copies of all this once I get them stamped at court and then you can get copies to the school and the doctor’s and wherever else it needs to go.”

“Thanks, Mel.  You know I love him as much as Aiden.”

“We know that or we would have fought it.  We are all co-parents.  We all want what’s best for our son.” Mel waved at Gus to come in and after he hugged and kissed both his dads, they were gone.

Brian pulled Justin into his arms.  “He is not going to get our boy.  Don’t worry about that.”

“Bri, you don’t know Daklin.  I didn’t know who he really was until we were getting divorced.  He is a very spoiled man that wants anything he is told he can’t have.  Brian he is successful, too.  He might….”

“Justin, we have one thing you can’t buy.”

“What is that?”

“We are surrounded by love and support. Judges look at that kind of thing.”

“I know but…” Justin stopped talking as he heard Aiden crying.  “I’m going to get Aiden and tell Mom to get out of here for the weekend.  Molly is so excited she is coming.”

“Mom, what’s up with Aid?” Justin walked in to see his mom trying to get him to settle down.

“I’m not sure.  I don’t think he feels well. I can stay…”

“Mom, we love you and are so thankful for everything you do for us but we can take care of our son and you need to go spend time with your daughter.”

“I know he is in good hands but don’t be mad if I call and check on him tomorrow.”

“I love you, Mom.  Give Molly a hug for me.”

Justin decided if Aiden had a bug maybe just a bottle would be best right now.  As he started to text Brian to bring a bottle up, Brian walked in the door.  He handed Justin the bottle.

“What’s wrong, sweetheart?” he bent and kissed Aiden’s forehead.  “He doesn’t feel warm.”

“No, he doesn’t. It is probably just a bug.”

Aiden took the bottle and as soon as the bottle was empty, he immediately fell asleep. Justin laid him in bed and Brian stood next to him, kissing him on the temple.  “Come on, Sunshine.  I turned the monitor and I have the second one on my waistband. You need something to eat, too.”

Brian had ordered a pizza before he had gone up and soon they were sitting in front of the fireplace eating pizza. “How many times this week did you skip lunch?” Brian asked as Justin took a bite of pizza.

“A couple times. I know I need to eat better. Mel thinks Lindsay might be willing to come work for me.  She hasn’t found the job she wants and if she works with me she would be working with art.  I could use someone with experience with real art knowledge.”

“I think that could really be a good fit.”

“I’ll talk to her Monday, I promise.”

They talked as they ate and when they had eaten almost the whole pizza,  Justin started unbuttoning Brian’s shirt.  “It isn’t often we are home and know no one can walk in on us. He pushed Brian onto his back on the floor. He started to slowly work his way down Brian’s body. When Justin started to lick his belly button over and over, Brian was nearly mad with need. He was sure if Justin’s tongue entered it again he was going to lose control but as he started to grab for Justin, Aiden screamed upstairs. Justin was gone before Brian could even react. He was only two steps behind him but by the time Brian entered the nursery, Justin already had Aiden in his arms.  

After Justin had tried to calm him down for half an hour, Brian took over.  He realized Aiden looked pale but he still didn’t have a fever at all and he wasn’t coughing or throwing up.  Eventually he fell asleep and Brian placed him back in the crib.

Brian saw how worried Justin was.  He had to admit he didn’t like how Aiden looked but he also knew kids had this happen from time to time. They couldn’t tell you what was wrong.  “Justin, if he is still off tomorrow, we can call Victor and see if he will look at him.  Maybe he has an earache.  He could have pain from that and they don’t always get a fever.”

“Do you think Victor will be available?”

“Well, if he isn’t I am sure he can connect us with one of his partners.  I think we should just get some sleep while we can.  I hope he sleeps the rest of the night but we both know he could be up most of the night, especially if it is an earache.”

“Brian, I wish he could just tell us what hurts or what is bothering him.”  Brian tugged off Justin’s shirt and as Justin undressed the rest of the way, Brian stripped and both of them got into bed.  

Brian stroked Justin’s chest and arm until he thought he was asleep but Brian couldn’t find sleep so he slipped out of bed and grabbing his robe and a blanket he walked into the nursery.  He sat in the rocking chair with the blanket wrapped around him.  He sat and watched Aiden’s breathing.  Was Aiden’s heart beating too fast?  Eventually Brian fell asleep.  

About 6:00 a.m. Brian woke up to Justin kissing him. Brian got up and the two of them walked out of the nursery.  I woke up and you weren’t there.”

“I couldn’t sleep so I went in there.  He slept all night but in an hour or so I will call Victor and we will get him checked over. I am not jumping to conclusions because babies have all kinds of things that are nothing serious.  I need a cup of coffee.”

About 7:30, Brian called Victor.  Ted picked up Victor’s phone, “Hey Brian, Vic’s in the shower.What’s going on?”

“Glad I didn’t wake you.  Aiden isn’t himself and I was wondering if Victor could get us in at his place this morning.  It is probably nothing but he is usually such a healthy kid.”

“He should be out in ten minutes or so.  I will have him call you.”

“Thanks, Ted.  So are the two of you getting married soon?”

“Brian, we just told our families about the wedding.  We are talking about after the first of the year.  It’s kind of silly but we are talking about a Valentine’s Day wedding.”

“Ted, if you want to get married February 14, go for it.” Aiden started crying. “I better go.  Aiden is crying again.”

“I’ll have Victor call soon.”

As Brian took Aiden, Justin made him some breakfast.  As Justin held the little boy and fed him, Brian got a text.  It was from Victor and said he would be there within the hour.

“Victor is on his way.  He will be here in an hour or so.”

“Thank goodness.  This just isn’t normal for my boy. He has me so spoiled because he has always been so good.”  Justin commented as he fed Aiden who was calmer now.”

“I agree, something has to be bothering him. Sunshine, why don’t you go and shower.  I’ll finish here and then I’ll shower when you are done.

By the time they had both showered, Victor, along with Ted had arrived.  Victor checked Aiden’s ears and they were clear.  He noticed he was pale but he didn’t have a fever.  His heartbeat and breathing were rapid but he was also worked up.

“At first glance, I don’t see anything to worry about.  He isn’t going to be happy but I am going to draw some blood.  We can check out several things with that sample.  For now, because he looks so pale, I wonder if he isn’t a little anemic. I will have the pharmacy send over some vitamins with iron.” He realized Aiden was now calm and almost asleep again in Justin’s arms.  Aiden barely noticed Victor drew blood.  He whimpered softly but that was all he did.

Justin stayed where he was with Aiden in his arms while Brian offered Ted and Victor some coffee.  “I can’t thank you enough for coming.”

“That’s what friends are for.  If you call my office on Monday and give them your insurance information, we will be able to run the blood tests.”

“Victor, is there something you are really worried about?”

“Well, we all know there are thousands of things out there but I have no reason to think it is anything serious.  I just want to cover all the basis and get this sweetheart feeling back to his old self. How old is he?”

“He is about 18 months.”

“Ok, someone from my office might give you a call for more information.   What does Justin know about the mother.  Ted filled me in that it was a surrogate.  Does he have a full medical report from her?”

“He does. I will send the file to  Ted’s email.”

“I want to look at her records.  I am a pediatrician but I specialize in genetics.  This vial of blood should give me all I need and now, I want to get it to the office.”

Soon, Aiden was again sound asleep and Justin held on to Brian tightly.  “Victor wasn’t hiding something was he?”

“I think he doesn’t know anything but he will find out if it is anything more serious than an iron deficiency.  Justin, Victore will figure this out.”

“Damn, Brian, what if it is more serious and Daklin gets custody.  I couldn’t stand him being sick and away from me.”

“Oh, Sunshine, don’t jump to conclusions.  You know, he’s sleeping now and you and I have the house alone.  I can think of something that might distract us….”

Justin took Brian’s hand and moved over to the sofa where he pushed Brian backward. “I don’t know if this will help but if this doesn’t, nothing will.”

Chapter 8

Brian and Justin gave their full attention to Aiden and as the day went on, he seemed to perk up a bit although he was a bit whinier than normal.  And by the end of the weekend, Justin felt much better.  Gus had come home very excited on Sunday evening but as soon as he heard his little brother was not feeling well he got concerned.  Brian and Justin both spent time with him to hear about his weekend with his moms and both of them could tell he was relaxed and had had a great time.  When it was time for him to go to bed, Brian went in to say goodnight.

“Dad, what’s wrong with Aiden?”

“It is hard to tell with someone Aiden’s age but little kids get sick and get better all the time.  Ted’s friend, Victor, did come and check him over.  He took a little blood to test but it could be just because he is growing a lot right now or could be getting teeth.  So you had fun at your moms? They behaved?”  Brian smiled as he said it.

“Dad, they are really trying.  They were nice to each other and I could tell they were really trying.  I even saw them on the couch kissing and I hadn’t seen that in a long time.”

“I am sorry you were subject to something like that, Gus.” Brian sounded very concerned.

“Dad, you and Justin are always kissing in front of me.”

“I know but to have to watch two women do it….yuck.”  Brian smiled to hear his son laugh.  “I’m so glad they are doing better.  Did they ask you to move back?”

“No, but they asked if I wanted to go back next weekend. If you don’t want me to…”

“Gus, they are your moms.  We’re your dads.  We think we are grown up enough to share you. Just promise me you don’t start playing the games where if you get upset with me or Justin that you don’t run there and then if you get mad at them you want to run back here.  Promise me you will talk to us and all of us can work it out.”

“I’ll try, Dad.” Gus hugged Brian and as he laid down, Brian covered him up. 

“I love you, Gus.”

“Love you, too, Dad.  I hope Aiden is all better in the morning.”

Justin was glad his mom offered to stay home with Aiden on Monday and if he had no changes, he would go to the daycare they had finally chosen for him after the wedding, on Tuesday. Justin spent an extra hour at the house with them and then left and stopped by the doctor’s office on his way to work.  “Well, Justin, I am glad you stopped by.  I wish I had answers for you.  I did run a quick test and he is low on iron so the vitamins I gave you can’t hurt anything.  I dropped the blood sample at the lab yesterday and they will run some tests. How was your beautiful son this morning.”

“He is not himself but he is better than he was Saturday.  He doesn’t just cry all the time but he is still extra clingy.  My mom stayed home with him today but hopefully he will just get better and tomorrow he can go back to daycare.”

“I am thinking the results will be in on Wednesday.  I did talk sweetly to the lab techs so maybe they will be done tomorrow.” Victor smiled at Justin trying to dispel some of his worries.  “Justin, you are a good dad.  It is obvious your boy is so very loved and you and Brian only want what is best for him.  I will probably just call you in just so I can show you the results.  He is 18 months old.  It is a good time to review his weight and height too.  You had them send his records here already so I will keep a late afternoon appointment open on Wednesday and hopefully that will work for you and or Brian.”

“We can make it work.  Just have the office text me the exact time and I will clear my calendar but if you find something out earlier, you know I will come no matter what.”

“Justin, relax.” Victor gave him a hug.  “I will be in touch. Now I have an appointment.”

“Thank you for everything, Victor.” Justin turned back to the desk to collect his insurance card. 

“We love Dr. Victor.  He is a wonderful person and a great doctor.  You have one of the best.”

Justin smiled at the kind woman behind the desk. He took his insurance card from her and said, “He is a good friend and it is obvious he cares about his patients and not just because he is getting married to an old friend.”

“Oh, we love Ted, too.  He has made Dr.Victor so happy. I can’t wait to meet your little boy.” The bubbly woman made Justin feel comfortable.  He had to smile as he walked out of the building. Ted was a lucky guy.  He was happy for his friend.  

Ted called Victor near the end of the day, “Hey Vic, what time do you plan to be home today?”

“I am leaving now,” Victor’s voice didn’t sound as chipper as usual.

“Is something wrong, darling?”

“We’ll talk when we have dinner.  I will pick something on the way home.”

“Alright.  I should be home shortly after you.  I have to stop by Brian’s office before I leave the building.”

“How is Brian today? Has he checked on little Aiden?”

I am not sure. Vic, is it Aiden that…”

“I love you, Teddy.  I will see you in about an hour and a half?”

“Probably a little before that. I love you, too.” Ted hung up and looked toward Brian’s office.  Why did he have a knot in his stomach?

By the time Ted left Brian’s office, he felt a little better.  Brian had talked to Jenn who said Aiden had eaten lunch well and although he wasn’t in a super mood he wasn’t crying.  He felt better thinking it couldn’t be Aiden he was so worried about.

Lindsay had just left Justin’s office.  They weren’t sure what exactly her title was and Justin knew if she could find a job in her area she would be leaving but for now she was willing to help any way she could and Justin was sure he could use her.  He was just reading an email that came from a client when there was a knock on his office door.

“Come in.” Justin finished the last line before looking up.  He expected it to be his assistant but he caught his breath when Daklin was standing there.

“There was no one at the front desk and I saw your  name on the door.  Not a shabby office for a brand new business.”

“What are you doing here, Dak?”

“Here in the office or here in Pittsburgh?” 

Justin used to think that kind of comment reminded him of something Brian would say but now he realized it wasn’t clever.  It was just a bitchy comment. “Both.” He said flatly.  Without him noticing, Justin pushed a button on his desk phone.  It was an intercom that went directly to Brian’s office.  Brian had put it in when he was splitting his time between the old and the new office.  He had know idea if Brian was in his office or in meetings but if he was there, he could hear everything in this office.

“Well, you are trying to take all my rights away as Aiden’s parent.  You first say you are taking him on an extended vacation and then you don’t come back.”

“I was allowed to do that.  Remember, the judge gave me full custody.”  Justin stood and walked over to him facing off to him squarely.

“Only because he liked blonds better than brunettes.  How often did you have to blow him to talk him into that decision?” Daklin sneered at Justin.  “You never lacked in the looks department. Lacking in the bedroom, now there you fell short often.” He glared at Justin’s crotch.  

Justin was sure he saw Dak’s own fly start to rise. “If I remember correctly you wanted me to move in after I blew you the first time but that really doesn’t matter.  I did nothing illegal and you didn’t want anything to do with Aiden when we lived in the same city.  Why do you want him now?”

“Why do I want him? You want the truth or what I’m going to say to the judge?”

“Oh, the truth, please.” Justin said looking him straight in the eye.

“The truth is I want him because you have him. You took him from me.  I’m the one who wanted a child.  I wanted your child.”

“Oh, I finally figured that out, Dak.  You figured if we shared my child, you would have complete control over me.  Did you really think I was so …..”

“You were, Justin.  From the first night I had power over you.  If only you hadn’t found out about my side piece, you would have never left.  You didn’t have it in you.  You were still mooning over….what’s his name? Oh ya, Brian Kinney.  Justin, you know you had it good with me.  You know I would provide.  All you had to do was sit at home, do your little side job, and take care of our son.  Like you are going to make this place succeed.  You aren’t good enough…”

Before Daklin knew what was going on Brian had pinned Daklin against the wall of Justin’s office. “Dorklin, I presume?”

“Who the hell are you? Get your fuckin’ hands off me!”

“You need to apologize to Justin.”

“I told you to get your hands off of me!”

Brian pushed him even firmer against the wall, “I am not usually a violent man but when I hear someone threatening my husband, I just can’t ignore it.”

“I don’t owe him anything except for the court order that was delivered to his lawyer and now a restraining order against you.”

“Well, if you’re going to process a restraining order I might as well make it worth your while.” Brian pulled back an arm and his fist connected with Daklin’s nose. He then dropped him as he put his hands up to his face and Brian rubbed his knuckles where they had connected.

“That was stupid, Kinney.  Your first mistake was marrying this wimp for a second time. Your second mistake, hitting me, is just what I need to get our son back.  And then it will be you begging to see him.”  With that Daklin rushed out of the office.

“Sunshine, are you alright? He didn’t touch you, did he?” Brian went to put his arms around Justin. 

“He’s right, you know.  I am weak.  I didn’t stand up for you or myself.  If you hadn’t come I probably would have let him…”

“I do not believe for a minute you would have let him touch you if that was what he was asking for.  I might have screwed it up by touching him.”

“Thank you for standing up for me.  He would have never done that.” He was pacing now.  “You heard us on the intercom?”

“Yes, I did and I turned on the built in recording system so hopefully, everything he said was recorded which I hope is enough if he goes through with the court hearings. Now, lock this place up.  We are going to go see our son.”

Ted arrived home and as he walked in Victor wrapped his arms around him and as he kissed him he rested his hand on Ted’s ass pulling him in.  By the time they separated, Ted ended up rusting against Victor.  “Please don’t ever leave me.  I can’t go back to an empty home again.”

“Oh,you will never have to worry about that.  I can’t say we won’t be separated a night or two but my closet will never be empty.” He kissed Ted again but this time it was gentle and coaxing and then if a kiss could turn sad, it did.  

They separated once again but Victor kept Ted’s hand in his.  He opened the containers of food and Ted got plates and cutlery.  Victor opened a bottle of wine and grabbed two wine glasses as they both sat down. Victor ate for several minutes before he finally started talking.  Ted had learned his man’s moods and behaviors and knew when he was ready he would open up.

“Ted, it isn’t certain yet but I am almost sure Aiden has a serious disease.  I am still waiting for the results but I have seen all the symptoms before.”

“Oh, Victor, what is it?  Please tell me there is a treatment.”

“The name of it is Beta Thalassemia.  It is a blood disease.  Of course, I could still be wrong.”

“But you don’t think so.” Ted put his arm around Victor’s shoulders and poured him more wine.

“No, I am fairly sure he has it.  What I don’t know is what version he has. One is serious but not too hard to treat. The other would mean a lifetime of transfusions and a lot of other complications that would go along with it.”  Victor rested his head on Ted’s shoulder.

“I have grown to love them all already.  I just can’t imagine how hard it will be if he has the severe form.  It is unlikely he would make it to adulthood.”

“Oh Victor, that would kill both of them and Gus….he is just feeling comfortable and safe.”

“You don’t think I know that,” he snapped and then he looked at Ted’s face.  “I am sorry, my love.  I didn’t mean to snap at you.”

“I know.”

“Je t'aime tellement ma chérie. (I love you, my darling)

“You know I love you. Now, finish your dinner because if Aiden is very sick, you are going to need to be at peak performance and speaking of performance…” Ted kissed him, “I think you and I can…”

Victor smiled at him.  You know I can never say no to you my love….and I don’t want to.”

 Before the end of the evening, Mel had gotten a call from Daklin’s lawyer and Brian and Justin found her on their doorstep. “Kinney, what the hell did you do this time?”  Mel noticed her son at the top of the stairs. “Hey, Gus, how are you?”

“Mama,” Gus came down the steps. “Be nice to Dad.  Aiden was sick all weekend and he and Justin are still waiting to hear from the doctor.”

Mel put an arm around Gus when he got to the bottom of the stairs. She kissed the top of his head. “I’m sorry.  You are right, Gus.  Have you heard anything, Brian?”

“No, but he has done pretty well today.  It was probably just some weird virus or something.  Right now we have an appointment with Victor on Wednesday.” Brian looked at their soon, “Gus, why don’t you go up and see if Justin and Aiden are ready for dinner.”

“Ok, I’ll be right back, Mama.”

“I am sorry I came in here yelling, Brian.  I was just blindsided this afternoon. Did you really hit the guy?”

“I did but that was only after he threatened Justin.”

“But I’m guessing you don’t have proof of that, do you.  I mean his word against yours…”

“Actually, I did record it.  It is at my office and I haven’t had a chance to listen to it.  I don’t know how much of it is clear but with technology, I would think they could clean it up.”

“You recorded it?”

“Long story but Justin and I have an intercom between our offices and I just hit record when he buzzed me.  I am not sure why.”

“Well, that is something. Brian, until we have a court date, and I expect that to be soon, you cannot be found near him,  Justin’s ex or his lawyer anyway, has some connections in town.  And whatever you do, don’t threaten him again.”

Justin slipped in with Aiden and appeared next to Brian. Mel smiled as Brian reached for the little boy who immediately dropped his head on Brian’s shoulder.

“Lindz told me Aiden wasn’t feeling well.  I hope he has a full recovery soon.” Mel addressed Justin.

“He seems really tired but right now, as you can see, he is settled.  He is a little pale. It is probably just some sort of bug.  Do we have any idea when this will go before a judge?” Justin put his arm around Brian and rested his head on Brian’s arm.

“I’ll leave you.  I’ll go say goodbye to Gus if you don’t mind.”

“No, of course.”

“I’ll call you as soon as I hear anything and let us know if there is anything we can help with, with this little guy.” Mel headed up the steps to Gus’ room.  Brian wrapped his free arm around Justin and held him close.  “Hey, Aid, shall we get some dinner? Your grandma has something in the oven for us.  I can smell it.”  Brian kissed Justin’s head.  “Did Victor say anything this morning?”

“No, we have an appointment on Wednesday afternoon.  I don’t have an exact time yet, but he wants to check Aiden over again and by then blood results will be in.  If you have meetings I can…”

“I am going with you no matter what time it is.”

“I love you, Brian.  I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have you right now.  When Dak said I was weak, he wasn’t lying.  I really am.”

“Oh, Justin, you are so wrong.  You are so strong.  You are smart and are willing to let someone else help you but you help everyone around you.  I mean, look at what you do for Gus and I would never have started Safe Place without you pushing me by leaving.  Relying on a partner, a friend is not a sign of weakness.  The difference is, from everything I have heard and seen, Dak doesn’t truly partner with anyone.”

“Well…” Brian kissed him, stopping his comment.  

“Why don’t you pull dinner out of the oven and I will go change this diaper and get his big brother.”

As the four ate dinner, Gus carried a lot of the conversation.  He had finally started making friends at school and he was doing well with his classes.  He had seen a counselor a few times who still wanted to see him about once a month for a couple more months but then, if nothing changed he would stop visits all together by the first of the year.  Both Justin and Brian asked questions and were interested in what he was saying.  Justin had fed Aiden as they talked but by now Aiden was asleep in Justin’s arms.  Justin tried not to show how worried he was about his little boy. Maybe he was sleeping because he was getting better. There was just something about the way Victor spoke this morning had him nervous.

Brian cleaned up the kitchen with Gus’ help and Jusitn went upstairs to put Aiden down.  When Gus came upstairs and got ready for bed, Justin tapped on his door.

“Come in, Justin.”

“How did you know it was me?”

“You knock different than Dad.” Gus was laying on the bottom bunk of his bedroom.  Justin laid down next to him, putting his arms around Gus and he sighed loudly. “Who is Dak?” Gus asked loudly.

“He is the man I was with when Aiden was born.”

“Did he do something bad? I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop but I heard you talking about him when Mama was here.”

“We don’t want you to worry about it because Mel will definitely win but he says he wants custody of Aiden.  We will never let him take him away.”

“Did you talk to Dr. Victor about Aiden today?”

“I did but he doesn’t have any answers yet. We have an appointment on Wednesday.”

“Justin, would it be easier if I stayed with my moms for a while?”

“Oh, Gus, you don’t have to do that.  I would miss you.”

I just want you to know that I would understand if while you have to see a judge and stuff you want me to go to my moms.”

“Oh, Gus, that is so sweet of you.” Justin ran his fingers through his dark, wavy hair, so much like his fathers. “If we have to be in court for a long time, it might be easier on you to be out of here so if you want to go, we will understand, too.”

Gus cuddled a little closer to Justin.  “I love Aiden. I don’t want anything bad to be wrong with him.”

“Oh, honey, he loves you, too.  Now I think you should get some sleep.”

When Brian got upstairs he looked for Justin and then he found him asleep next to Gus. He gently shook his shoulder and Justin smiled at him.  He slipped out of bed and covered Gus before they walked out of the room.  As soon as they were in the hall, Brian pressed Justin against the wall and kissed him.

“And that is exactly what I was talking about.  With such ease, you put him at ease.  You are here for all of us.”

“Can we go to bed?  I am really tired.”

“Come on, Sunshine, let me tuck in you...oops, tuck you in.”

“Oh, you may tuck in me.  Knowing how much you love us is the only thing that is keeping me going.  I don’t know what I am more worried about, my ex or Aid.  I keep thinking if only I hadn’t left you but then I know I wouldn’t have Aiden.” They walked hand in hand to the nursery and peeked in at him before they entered the master. “Brian, promise me all these issues will never be too much.  If you would decide you just can’t…”

“Oh, Sunshine, you aren’t really going to finish that sentence are you? You couldn’t get rid of me if you tried.” He pulled Justin to him and just held him.  He felt him trembling.  “Is it Aiden or is it Daklin that is worrying you the most?”

“Oh Bri, I can’t even think about Aiden being anything but healthy.  I can’t imagine having my baby go through….”

“Just remember you aren’t doing this alone.  You have an army of support, including an excellent doctor who I think has a crush on our son.” Brian smiled at him and then started to undress him, dropping kisses on his lips and skin as he bared it.  Justin just allowed him to do it.  He had no energy to reciprocate. Brian guided him to their bed and once Justin had laid down, Brian quickly stripped and got into bed next to him.  He continued his attention to Justin with touches and kisses.  He let his fingers probe and stretch him so as he eventually entered him, Justin was prepared. Justin focused on the feeling he had as Brian began to move slowly and he allowed himself, if only for a few moments, to forget his worries and enjoy the pleasure of his husband.

It was noon when Ted walked into Brian’s office.  “Hey Theodore, I have to say that new man of yours is a gem.” He laughed a bit at his own out of date comment but then he noticed the look on Ted’s face.  “What’s up? Is that shoe deal still causing problems?”

“Brian, Victor said he tried to call your cell and you didn’t answer.”

Brian was completely serious now.  “I just walked in from that meeting with the business that wants to rent the upper floors.  “What is it? Did he call Sunshine?”

“Brian, I don’t know details.  He’s your son’s doctor and he takes his job seriously.  I just know he wants you and Justin to be in his office, with Aiden, at 3:30.  I told Cynthia to clear your schedule and, I maybe shouldn’t have done it, but I had her call Lindsay at Justin’s office so she was going to make sure he was free.”

“Thanks, Ted.  So Justin doesn’t know….hell, you have an idea what is wrong.  Ted, this is going to kill Justin, no matter what is wrong.”

“Brian, I honestly don’t know what it is.  I do know that Victor has to run more tests to know the severity of what is going on.”

“Damn,” Brian turned around so he wasn’t looking at Ted.  “What am I going to say to Justin?”

“Brian, together, you can handle anything and, well, if I can do anything, you know i am here for you.” He rested a hand on Brian’s shoulder.

“You always have been, Ted. I know I have taken advantage of you.  Since the day I hired you, you have been in 100% and not only as the COO but also as a friend.”  Brian turned to face him, “We have an army of support and I know Victor is the best in his field.  I have done some research.  Aiden will be alright.  He has to be because our life has finally fallen into place and Aiden is a big part of that.” Brian took a deep breath. “I think I will take Justin for a late lunch and break it to him and then we will get our son and see what kind of fight we are up against.”

Brian let Lindsay in on the plan for the day and she offered to pick up Gus from school and she would take him to her place until she heard from Brian or Justin.  He was happy for the offer. He knew they would tell Gus everything but it might take them a little time to adjust themselves.

Brian tried not to alert Justin and he picked him up at 1:30.  He picked a deli near the daycare and one that had a small area that was out of the way so they could have some privacy.  After they sat down and were handed menus, Justin reached over and took Brian’s hand.  “What are you hiding?”

“Hiding?” Brian started to come up with something but then stopped. “Let’s order and then we can talk.”

“I don’t think I am hungry anymore.” Justin said but Brian waved the server over and ordered a sandwich and a salad along with sodas.

“We can share,” he said and as soon as their sodas arrived he took a big swallow.

“Brian, it’s Aiden isn’t it.”

“Sunshine, we have an appointment with Victor at 3:00.  I already told the daycare we were picking him up early and Lindsay is picking up Gus.”

“What is it, Brian.  What’s wrong with my baby?”

“I honestly don’t have any idea.  I know they are going to need to run more tests to see if whatever it is, is the mild form or a more severe form of whatever it is.” Brian watched Justin as he made himself stay composed. Brian switched sides and moved next to him on his side of the booth. “We just need to be ready for anything.”

“How do you prepare to find out your child is seriously ill? Tell me that, Brian!” Brian wrapped his arms around Brian and held him as he shook.

“Justin, whatever it is, he is going to need us, both of us and that means you need to eat,” he looked at the food that had just been set down. “So eat half a sandwich and some salad and then we will pick up our son and deal with whatever it is.”

They shared the meal.  As Justin ate the last of his sandwich he stopped.  “Brian, what do you think this will mean to the custody case.  What if he makes all this our fault? What if it is our fault?”

“Darling, one thing at a time.”

“You’re right.  Brian, we aren’t going to lie to him but let’s not mention it to Daklin.  If the time comes we will but I don't want him to use it against us somehow.”

“Of course.  That asshole doesn’t deserve anything but, yes, we can’t lie about anything because that could jeopardize our fight.” Brian saw Justin’s stricken face. He turned a bit and tilted Justin’s face up so they were eye to eye.  “That boy is not leaving us but there is the possibility of visitation and if I have anything to say about it, he will not spend one hour with that despicable man.” He wrapped his arms around Justin and they sat in silence for several minutes.

Finally,  Justin pulled away slightly.  He sat up straight and said, “Let’s go get our son and find out how we can get him better.”

Brian and Justin sat on one side of the desk while Vincent sat on the other. He had finished checking Aiden over and they had done another blood draw for a few more tests.  Aiden in Brian’s arms still whimpering for the needle but he rested his head on Brian’s shoulder and as Vincent started talking he dozed off.

“I am sure you have figured out that I have found something.  I don’t have all the answers yet but I can tell you that your son has a form of Beta Thalassemia, TDT for short.   I am sure you have no idea what that is but it is a blood condition.  His lethargy and paleness is caused by it.  His weight and height is also lagging behind just slightly at this point.  There are different severities and that is why I drew more blood.” Brian reached over and took Justin’s hand with his free one. “If he has a severe form of it, it is not good, but that is highly unlikely and there are different treatments depending on what the new tests tell us.”

“So give me the worst.”

“It would require transfusions on a consistent basis.  He would be much more susceptible to many other conditions. What I am hoping for and what is more likely is a less severe form.  It is treatable, no matter what but I am hoping that medication and close monitoring will get it under control.  I should have explained it.  There is an enzyme in his blood that isn’t working as well as it should.  That means the proteins in his blood don’t break down like they should. I will have the answer soon.  We then can make a plan.”

“Victor, what caused this? Is it something I did? Could it have been prevented?”

“Justin, it is a genetic condition.  Many people are carriers but have no clue.  Either you or his birth mother must be a carrier.”

“I knew I should have required more medical history for her before….” Justin started to say but Victor stopped him.

“Justin, it is something she probably has no idea she is a carrier for and if you had changed anything else, this beautiful boy would not be who he is. As an intern I worked with one of the most knowledgeable doctors in this field.  I have already contacted him and once we run the next tests I will consult with him to find the best option for Aiden.”

Brian squeezed Justin’s hand. ”Victor, thank you for being up front with us.  What can we do for him while we are waiting for the results?”

“You are doing it.  Both of you are loving him.  I am going to give you another medication and keep giving him the iron you have for him.  I want you both to believe me when I say, I don’t expect this to be a severe case.  If it is the mild form he will be able to live a long happy life with just a few small issues that can be dealt with. His temperament may be off because he just doesn’t feel like himself but once the medication does its thing he will learn to adjust and I am sure, with all the love he gets, he will thrive.”

By the time they walked out and Brian  had Aiden strapped into his carseat, Justin was already doing a search on his phone.  

“Talk to me, Sunshine.”

“What’s there to say? Our boy has a condition, TDT. And he will overcome this because we will do anything for him.”

“Do you want to go home now or do you want to pick up Gus before we go home?”

“I need to see Gus.  Let’s pick him up.” Justin called Lindsay and let her know their plans and then Mel came on the line.

“Justin, I don’t know if this is good or bad but somehow your case is on the docket for this Friday.” 

“How did that happen?” Justin put the phone on speaker.

“My paralegal did a little research and found out that your ex has an uncle that plays golf with this judge.  Since they are not related there is nothing illegal with it however….”

“What can we do about it?” Brian asked.

“Nothing.  But that recording you gave me might be all we need.  I had it cleaned up and it is obvious he was threatening Justin.  That will be good enough to stop him from getting custody.”

“And visitation?” Justin asked.  Mel was silent.

Brian looked over at him.  “Justin, let’s worry about one thing at a time. Let’s get him healthy. At least he is too young to be asked to talk in court.  Hopefully, he will be getting better by the time the judge says he is 100% ours.

Chapter 9

By the time they drove home they filled Gus in the best they could.  They didn’t tell him about the worst case scenario but they did tell him that Aiden had a serious condition but it could be treated with medicine. It was enough to satisfy him and to make him worried.   

As Brian stretched out his long frame next to his son on his bed.  He was built so much like him, Brian thought. They talked.  Gus didn’t understand Aiden’s particular disease but he understood the concept.  What he didn’t understand was why some strange guy was trying to take Aiden away from their family. 

“Dad, I want to go to court with you.”

“Gus, I don’t think that is the best idea.  I mean, it will just be Mel and the other guy’s lawyer yelling at each other.  Oh, and a judge will interrupt them once in a while.”

“He can’t really get Aiden can he? I mean, he’s my brother. Dad, I need to be there! I mean if that judge tries to say he has to go, I want to be there to tell him he can’t”

Brian thought about it for a minute and then pulled his big hearted son against him, “I’ll talk to Justin about it. I don’t know if it is the best idea but you are one of the family so I can see why you would want to be there.”

“Ok, Dad. I’m his big brother.  I need to be there.” Gus said it as he drifted off to sleep. As Brian got out of the bed,  GC jumped in and snuggled up against Gus who instinctively draped his arm over his dog.

Brian felt arms wrap around his waist and turned to see Justin just inside the doorway.  They walked out the door but left it open for GC to go as he pleased.  “Did Aiden go down?”

“Yes, he still isn’t his bright, happy self but at least he isn’t in pain. I just can’t deal with him crying because he hurts and I can’t do anything about it.”

“Sunshine, being there for him is all he wants most of the time and you always are.”

“That’s just not enough sometimes.  How was Gus? He looked like he was sleeping.”

“He wants to go to court on Friday.  He said he is part of the family and that is where he belongs. I couldn’t argue with him. I think it would be good for him to come.”

“I’m not sure if I like the idea but I think he needs to.  I would have done anything for Molly at that age.  It is kind of the code of the big brother.”

“My family didn’t have any kind of code but I am very proud he wants to and maybe his sad face will work on the Judge if needed.”

“If anyone can, it would be your son. I am going to read up on TDT.  I need to understand this a little better.”

“Justin, it’s not going to change anything and you need your sleep. You only sleep half the night.”

“And you sleep the other half.  Neither of us have gotten a good night's sleep for over a week.”

“Well, staying up to read those details isn’t going to change anything, especially since we don’t know all the details yet.”

“But Brian, I…” 

“Fine.  I’ll get us each a drink and we can study it together.”  Brian went over to the bar and poured them each a glass of scotch.  In Justin’s he dropped a sleeping pill and then he quickly stirred it before walking over and giving it to Justin, who took a big swig. As they looked over the websites for the next fifteen minutes, Justin kept sipping his drink and then, all of the sudden, he knew what had happened.

“Bri, what did you do?” He turned to look at him but his brain felt like it was swimming.

“I’m sorry, Sunshine, but you need a good sleep.”  Brian helped Justin stand and walked him to the bed where he quickly helped him remove his pants and shirt.  

“But if Aiden...I need to be able to…”

Brian got in bed behind him.  “I will take care of Aiden if he wakes up.” He kissed him gently.  “Sleep, my love.”

On Thursday, after two days on the medication, they had gone back to Vincent’s office so they could do another blood draw to see what the numbers said.  As they left the clinic they were sure someone was following them. As soon as they arrived home, they called Ted who called the security company they used for the business.  Within a couple hours they had an armed security guard outside their house. Gus thought it was kind of cool at first but as the evening went on he stayed close to one of the adults in the house. Jenn had been staying home with Aiden.  They decided it was better to keep him at the house, not only to keep an eye on him with his new medication but, because they were worried Daklin might try to pull something at the daycare. 

On Friday Justin, Brian, and Gus dressed up and headed to the courthouse, leaving the guard at the house.  There had been a debate, even Thursday night, if Gus should be going.  Mel didn’t want him to come but, after she found out someone was following them, she agreed he could come to the hearing.  

At 10:00 a.m. Brian and Justin, along with Gus, sat in the front row of the courtroom.  Mel sat at the front table in front of them.  Daklin and an older man walked in and sat across from them and his lawyer walked to the front table and stopped to talk to Mel.  Justin whispered to Brian, “That’s his uncle.  I never met him but I remember seeing pictures of him.  I think he is from Philadelphia.”

Daklin caught Justin’s attention and just smiled at him.  Brian readjusted his position so Dak could no longer see him. Gus sat between his fathers and reached to take Justin’s hand.  

The other lawyer went and sat down and Mel turned around, “Fuck, Mel, is it that bad?” Brian asked after seeing her face.

“If what he said is true,” Mel saw their son’s face and leaned close to Brian’s ear.  “If you don’t agree to move to Washington they will ask for full custody.”

“Like hell they will!” Brian said loudly.

“Brian, they have a chance. This judge was not my choice.  I tried to get someone else but…”

“All rise.” a bailiff said, interrupting their conversation.

The judge walked in and once he was sitting everyone around them took a seat.   He set the groundwork for the hearing.  He let them know they would not call witnesses.  The lawyers would tell the judge why Aiden belonged with each parent and then, the judge would  review both sides and then he would come back and ask any questions he had.

Mel told the judge how Justin was the only parent Aiden had ever known.  She told him about the family they had created and how much love there was in the home.  She told them about the financial security they had and that there was a loving grandmother nearby.

Then Daklin’s lawyer stood.  The story he painted was of Daklin being cast off when Aiden was born.    He said that Justin first froze him out and then ran away, taking Daklin’s child away.  That before he knew it Justin had moved across the country and fell right back into bed with his ex. He then went on and on about Daklin’s broken heart and devastation from losing his family.  

The look on the Judge’s face went hard and cold.  By the time he stepped out to review the case, he was glaring at Mel and over her to Brian and Justin.

Daklin and his uncle stood and before walking out, Dak smirked at Justin and softly said, “Looks like you already got one kid, there is no way you are going to have two.”  He winked directly at Brian before they walked out of the room.

Once Mel watched the door close, she spoke to Brian and Justin.  “I know you didn’t want to bring up Aiden’s illness but the lawyer asked me  why the ‘kid’ was at the doctor so often.  Obviously we know who was following you.”

“I think we already realized that. I just wish I could have figured out why he was asking.  I couldn’t decide if he wanted to say you caused something or if they were just trying to find out if he was sick.”

“You didn’t tell them...” Justin jumped in.

“I didn’t tell them anything.  I just wonder if we played up…”

“Mama, why would we lie about that.  We don’t know how sick my little brother is and you want to lie to people?”

“Oh, Gus, I didn’t mean it that way.  Honey, we are all worried about your little brother and if there is anything we can do….”

“Then win this case for us!” Gus yelled.

“Whoa, Gus, that’s no way to talk to your mom,” Brian corrected Gus. “Yes, she is your mom but right now she is our lawyer and she is doing the best any lawyer could do.”

“But, DAD, she doesn’t even know what to do next. I would know what to say.”

Brian put his hand on Gus’ shoulder and steered him down the aisle.  “I think Gus needs a little break.” He nodded at Mel telling her to stay with Justin without using words.

Brian saw Daklin and his party at one end of the large public area and he guided Gus to a small alcove.  “Dad, I hate him.  What that other guy said wasn’t true.  Justin didn’t steal Aiden.  How can you steal something that belongs to you. That guy could never love him like we do and would he take care of him now that he is sick?”

Gus clapped both hands over his own mouth.  He knew they were keeping this a secret.  Brian turned to see if Daklin was looking in their direction.  He wasn’t but Brian did notice his uncle standing nearby on his phone. “I’m sorry, Dad.  I should have…” Gus started crying.  

Brian wrapped his arms around his son and held him close. He sat down so he was at Gus’ level and spoke very quietly, “Gus, don’t worry about it.  You didn’t do anything wrong.  Do you want to go home? I am sure Ted would pick you up and you could go help care for Aiden.”

“No, I want to stay here. I need to be here.” Gus put his head on  Brian’s shoulder.  “I don’t want to be a baby but my heart hurts.  What if that man takes my brother?” 

“Oh, Gus,” Brian’s heart was breaking for Gus. Hell, his heart was breaking for all of them.  Mel was worried and she didn’t worry very often. He wiped Gus’ eyes and they both got a drink at the water fountain before they headed back in.  

Mel was sitting next to Justin.  He could see by the set of his shoulders that he had shut down.   He was sitting up so straight it looked like there was a rod up his back. “Gus, can you have your mom show you her table for a minute?”

“Sure.  You want to talk to Justin.  I understand that.” Gus walked up to Mel and took her hand and started to point at stuff in the front of the courtroom and Mel led him away to show him something at the side of the room.

Brian sat next to Justin and didn’t say anything but wrapped his arms around him.  Justin’s arms went around him and clung to Brian. “We can’t lose him.  He’s my son and he’s sick and if he takes him I have to move. I can’t be across the country from him.  He doesn’t even know him.  How will I know if he has a good doctor?”

“Justin, you need to take a deep breath and pull yourself together. We will do whatever it takes but if the judge asks you to talk, you need to have your shit together.  Do you want them to think that you are a whiny, fag?  The judge would love to see you like this.  If you can’t handle a morning in a courtroom.” Brian felt Justin pull away and when he looked at him, he saw the spark back in his eyes.

“I hate you right now. I mean I really hate you.” Justin breathed in and then slowly let out the air. He stood and turned to walk down the aisle just as Daklin and his lawyer walked in.  Justin turned back.  He refused to look at Brian but he reached out for Gus’ hand and guided him back to his seat between Brian and Justin.  

The judge entered and first looked at Daklin and then at Justin before sitting down.  After taking a long drink of water, he began to speak. “I  have read through the documents that have been presented to me.  From what I saw it does appear that Mr. Tayler took their son, Aiden on a vacation and did not return.”

Mel stood and interjected, “Excuse me, your honor, but the court in Washington state granted full custody to Mr. Taylor because his partner at the time had deserted him and their infant, Aiden.”

“Well, Ms. Marcus, that is true, however, documents have been presented that show Mr. Taylor used blackmail to get Daklin to give his son away. Your client returned home to Pittsburgh where he immediately stepped back into his past life with his ex husband.  I don’t know why he went out to Washington, if he had to sow his wild oats or what, but then he abandoned his life on the west coast and rushed back to the arms of his previous lover.”

Gus started to stand up but Brian held him in place and the judge went on.

“I can’t imagine a good man like Daklin would willingly give all rights away.  And after reviewing all the details I have decided to overturn the custody  agreement and draw up joint custody.  You will need to work out an agreement with your lawyers that give you equal time between your homes.”

“Your honor…” Mel began but the judge raised his hand. 

“Ms. Marcus, I am going to give your client a chance to speak as well as Daklin.  So Daklin would you like to speak first?”

“Thank you, your honor.”  Daklin stood and talked for the next ten minutes.  He mostly went on about how much he missed his little boy and what he had missed out on.  He said he had already set up a room for him and then started talking about his mother.  He concluded with, “I hope, sir, that within a week or two I will be able to bring my son to his true home.”

That was when Justin’s head dropped, Brian’s arm went to his shoulder and Gus broke free. “You can’t have him.  He doesn’t even know him and he loves us.  He loves GC.  He is MY brother.  I need to be by him in case he needs help…”

“Son, you need to sit down.  It isn’t…”

“But Aiden is sick and we don’t even know how sick but he needs medicine and he might need to get blood.  If he is in Washington….” Brian tried to get him to sit down while Mel glared at him, “my dads take turns sleeping because they are so worried.  How can he do that? And when he cries, he likes me to hold his hand….” Now Brian gently touched his arm and Gus sat down pressing his face into Brian’s lap so his sobs would be muffled.

Across the aisle there was a quiet commotion.  “Sir,” Daklin’s lawyer stood, “My client feels like things have been withheld. We would like to see the medical records...his son’s health history. He’s, um, concerned.”

The judge’s expression changed.  He looked at the Daklin and then over at the small family.  Gus still had his face in Brian’s lap.  He addressed Justin. “Mr. Taylor, I know no one asked for a health report and,” the judge glared at Daklin, “I am getting a clear picture as to what is going on here but, sir, I do think it might be important for us to have a little detail about what the young man said.” He glanced at Gus and for the first time he let emotion show on his face.

“Sir,” Justin said as he stood, “Aiden is being tested for Beta Thalassemia.” Justin could tell the judge had no idea what that was.  “I didn’t know what it was either.  It is a problem with his blood.  We have not gotten the final results yet.  There is a wide range of symptoms.  If he has the severe type it will mean a life of blood transfusions and probably a shortened life expectancy.  

Gus was now sitting up and Brian wrapped his arms tightly against him while he reached out and took Justin’s hand.

“If we are lucky he will have a mild version that can be controlled with medication. His severity could fall anywhere in between.” He looked down and smiled at Gus.

“Excuse me, sir,” Gus said in a wavering voice, “I’m sorry I yelled earlier.  You see, I am very worried about my little brother.  It makes us all so sad that he is sick and we can’t do anything but hug and kiss him. He cries a lot more now because he doesn’t understand why he feels shitty.” Gus slapped his hand over his mouth. “I’m sorry, sir. I shouldn’t have said that.”

“What’s your name, young man?”

“Gus.”

“Well, Gus, you appear to be a very intelligent, caring young man. Your dads “

“That’s one of my moms.” He pointed to Mel.  They do a good job, too.”

“Well, Ms. Marcus, gentleman, you are raising an intelligent, caring young man. It is obvious you care for your children. Daklin, is there anything you would like to say now?”

Daklin whispered something to his lawyer and then the lawyer spoke up, “Your honor, my client would like a few minutes with Mr. Taylor. I know that is an unusual request but that way he will be able to ask questions as they speak.”

The judge looked at Daklin and then over at Justin, “Mr. Taylor, it is your call.”

Now Brian stood up, “He doesn’t have to…”

“I will talk to him.” Justin turned toward Brian, “He can’t hurt me.  I’ll be fine.”

“Alright, gentlemen, give us a couple minutes,” the judge nodded at the court officer in the room who then stepped out, “and we will find a room for you to use. I would suggest the attorneys stand outside the room so you are available if they have any questions.”

After a short break, Justin and Mel walked away toward a room off to the side where Daklin and his attorney stood.  Justin opened the door to the room and Daklin followed him in. There was frosted glass in the door so their shadows were visible and from time to time they could hear a muffled word.

Justin sat on a chair and looked at Dak and he waited, looking him directly in the eyes.  “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Tell you what, Daklin? Was I supposed to call you and say, ‘Oh by the way, the child you only chose to ignore, is sick and we are waiting to see if he will live a long life or be dead in five years. So it sounds like the judge is going to give you custody.  I will make sure you have a list of doctors and his medication.  You will need to watch him closely and the poor little guy is quite fussy right now.” Justin smiled almost noticeably knowing how much Daklin hated being awoken in the middle of the night.  Even when Justin had wanted sex, if Dak was sleeping he had learned quickly not to wake him. There would be no sex but he might end up sleeping on the sofa. “There are many nights Brian and I take turns sitting up with him.”  Justin saw Daklin’s facial muscles twitch.

“Justin, this could have all been avoided if you hadn’t deserted me.  I loved you!”

“So, this isn’t about my son being sick, is it? It is because your ego was hurt.  Even now, when my son could be dying, all you care about is your hurt feelings.”

“Justin, that isn’t….and he’s our son.”

“Unless that judge changes the ruling you have no claim to him and Brian, my husband will be his legal guardian.”

“That pretty boy…”

“I told you he was gorgeous.  I told you pictures  didn’t do him justice.” Justin hoped he was pulling off the act. All he wanted to do was scream at his ex and rush out the door to go home to his little boy. Instead he was trying to act as unfeeling as Dak truly was.

“Justin,” Daklin walked up behind Justin and placed his hands on Justin’s shoulders, “I can’t stop thinking about you.  We had something special.  I was sure you would come back to me after your trip to that cabin. I thought you would come back to me.”

“Dak, when I left, it was because you had an affair. I thought we were going to have a life together, the three of us.”

“That’s what I wanted but once the baby was born he took all your time and…” Dak finally sat next to Justin and turned to face him, gently laying a hand on Jusitn’s arm, “He’s really sick?” he said softly.

“He is really sick.  We hope he has the minor version but we don’t know yet.” Justin started to crack a bit, “I don’t know….if he doesn’t make it our lives will be shattered. You saw Gus.  He is such a good big brother…..”

“Justin, I’m going to withdraw the petition. As much as I loved you, I know I am not the right person to raise a sick child. You, my lovely, always had the world’s biggest heart.  Will you let me know how he is, once you find out?” Daklin’s voice cracked.

Justin reached out and touched his cheek, “I will let you know, Daklin. This is the man I fell in love with.” 

Daklin leaned in and Justin moved toward him for one last kiss. “Thank you.”

Outside the door Brian saw the image of the men sit next to each other and then saw the shadow of them move even closer.  The outline could only be the two men kissing. Brian was ready to storm through the door but Mel held him back.

“Brian, I think they are saying goodbye. You know you trust Justin.  He would never do anything to hurt your relationship.  He loves you and your family.” Mel nodded toward the door as Daklin walked out and he said something to his uncle and his attorney and then Daklin glanced back once more at Justin before he and his uncle walked off.  His lawyer caught Mel’s eye and she walked over as Brian and Gus moved into the room where Justin still sat.

“Daklin has changed his mind,” the lawyer said to Mel. He is signing off all parental rights to Justin as long as Justin agrees to sending him a picture at least once a year and lets him know how he is doing.”

“I am sure he will go along with that. Let’s go talk to the judge.”

Brian and Gus walked over to Justin. Gus hugged him and Brian sat down on the chair Daklin had been sitting in moments earlier. “What happened, Justin?” Gus asked.  Is he going to take Aiden?”

“No, Gus, no he isn’t. Daklin may seem a little mean but deep down, he has a good spot, too.  He said he could tell what a great big brother Aiden had and he said he didn’t want to break up our family.  It’s over.” Justin looked into Brian’s eyes, “It’s all over!  I want to go home and see our boy.  Brian, let’s go home.” Justin and Brian stood and Gus put his arms around both of their waists pushing them together. Justin reached up and putting his arms around Brian’s neck, he brought his mouth to meet his. 

The kiss went on until Gus said, “Um, guys, can you do this when you get home?”

Slowly after a few more quick kisses they separated.  Brian smiled down at Gus, “Sure, let’s go home and see your brother.”

‘Brian, I love you. You do know that, right?”

“I know, Sunshine.  I love you and our boys.”  Brian swung Gus off his feet and hugged him.  “Let’s go home.”  On the way home they went through a drive thru and had burgers and fries to celebrate.

When Brian, Justin, and Gus arrived at home, they walked into the entry and heard Jenn sobbing somewhere. Justin rushed into the family room off the kitchen and sat next to his mom on the loveseat.

“Mom, what’s wrong? Where’s Aiden? Did something happen to Aiden?”

Jennifer turned toward her son and grabbed on to him.  “Aiden is good.  Victor called.  The tests showed he has the mild form.  Once he gets it under control, it should be very controllable.” She shuttered as she took a deep breath trying to control her breathing. “It was just such good news.”  Now she looked between the guys.  “Please tell me you have good news, too.  He isn’t taking Aiden, is he?”

Gus rushed over to Jennifer and said, “Grandma, he’s all ours.  He said we could keep him.” 

Jenn hugged Gus, looking at Justin over his shoulder and Justin nodded assuring her that was right. “I have been so worried about that.  I know Daklin was Mr. Right Now but you wouldn’t  have been with him if he didn’t have a sweet side.”

“It was all Gus.  He told that judge in no uncertain terms that he was Aiden’s big brother and he had to be there for him.” Justin said as Brian walked over to him and put his hand on Justin’s shoulder.

“Mom, is Aiden sleeping?”

“Yes, he is.  He just went down for a nap about five minutes before I got the phone call from Victor.” Gus leaned over and whispered something to Jenn and she smiled, “I agree, Gus.” Jenn smiled over at her son and son in law.  “Gus thinks the two of you might like a little time alone.”

Brian looked down at Justin, “I think Gus is right.”

“Did you have lunch?” Jenn asked.  

“We did, Mom.  Gus, I think you have a little homework to do.” Justin reminded him.

“Ya, can I play with GC for half an hour and then do it?”

Justin smiled at Gus and then looked at his mom, “I think that sounds like a great idea. We are just going to go to our room for a while. We do have a few things to talk about.”

“Go. Do you want me to make dinner?”

“Mom, don’t you dare.  You have done enough for us today.  As long as you can hang nearby in case Gus needs something, we will be back down when Aiden wakes up.”

Brian tugged on Justin’s hand and soon they were heading up the steps to the bedroom. As soon as the bedroom doors were closed, Brian turned to face Justin, “I so sorry, Sunshine.  I know I was really a shit in the courtroom but I  could tell you were struggling and…”

Justin pressed his body against Brian and Brian relaxed as he pulled him in and as their lips met they forgot the world. Soon the clothes were abandoned and they were on the bed.  They didn't waste time with foreplay.  Justin got on all fours and Brian entered him. Once they both had cum they dropped on the bed side by side.  Brian rested his head on Justin’s chest, making circles on his stomach with his finger. 

“Bri, I did get angry but you knew I needed that. I was so scared.  I think the judge was ready to give Daklin custody.  Gus really did save it.”

“You kissed him when you were alone.” Brian didn’t want to look him in the eye,

“Brian, it was truly a goodbye kiss.  All he asked was to get updates on Aiden’s health.  He is obviously a jackass but the part I loved is still there, too.”

“So no regrets coming back and marrying me again?”

Justin tilted his head up so he didn’t have a choice but to look him in the eye. “Brian Kinney, you don’t seriously think I would ever leave you, do you?”

Very softly he said, “You did before.”

“You are stuck with me until we are old and gray and Gus and Aiden are running our businesses.”

This time they took their time.  They touched and tasted and stroked every inch of the other’s body and as Brian entered Justin this time, he made sure Justin was nearly incoherent with pleasure before he joined him on the other side of the orgasm.  They were just catching their breath when Aiden needed some attention.

Justin rushed to his son. All of the sudden he needed to hold him.  His son was going to be able to fight this. Justin came back and laid Aiden next to Brian and slipped into the bed with them.  Brian saw the tears in Justin’s eyes and reached out to brush a tear away as it spilled out.

“Sunshine, he will be fine.  We will probably have some rough moments until everything balances out but…”

“Brian, I think I may have to close my business.  I don’t want to but Mom can’t keep taking off and I know I won’t be able to keep going without putting a lot of time into it.”

“Justin, if I need to cut back on hours I will.  I already told Safe Place I would be coming a little less frequently and they were fully supportive.  In fact, Victor and Ted are starting to take my place on Saturday mornings.  Our family is as important to me as it is to you.”

“But I feel so guilty.  What if Aiden  feels like I don’t love him when I’m gone as much…”

“Whoa, he will never doubt how much you love him and Jenn and I love him, too. Until everything balances out Jenn and I can work out a schedule.”  Brian kissed the little boy who was crawling on top of his chest and then Justin leaned over and kissed both of them.

“Thank you.  I never doubted you love him. I don’t want you to think I did.”

There was a soft knock on the door. “Dads you aren’t doing anything gross are you?” Gus’ voice came from the hallway.

“Come in Gus.  We are just playing with your brother.”

Gus came in and jumped on the bed with them.  Justin started to tickle Gus as he joined the melee of activity.  

The next two weeks were rough on everyone.  Aiden had several appointments and tests that needed to be run so everyone was stretched. After talking to Gus and his moms everyone agreed it might be best for him to stay with them for a short time.  He still spent time with Brian and Justin but he understood they needed to be with Aiden as much as they could.  He didn’t feel slighted because he knew soon things would be back to normal.  

The week of Thanksgiving arrived cold and snowy.  Aiden was finally done with testing for now.  He would still need to go in for blood draws regularly but everyone could see he was feeling much better.  Gus enjoyed his time with his moms now that they weren’t fighting all the time but he missed living with his dads.  

They had decided to have several friends over to celebrate Thanksgiving and Aiden, both because of his ability to stay with them and the fact his health was improving everyday.  Molly and Jenn made desserts for the meal while the rest of the guests chipped in to help with the rest of the food.  Lindsay and Mel made all the hot food and Ted and Victor brought homemade French bread and rolls.  It was the eight of them for the main meal but late in the afternoon several other friends arrived. 

As the group enlarged Justin noticed Molly with a handsome man.  He looked to be a couple years older than her but it was obvious he was smitten with her.  She walked up to where Brian and Justin stood and made introductions. “Justin, Brian, I’d like you to meet Spencer Williams. Spenc, this is my brother and his husband.” The men shook hands.  “Spencer was a teacher’s assistant in one of my classes last year and he is now working on his doctorate in psychology. He is wondering if maybe after the first of the year he could talk to you.  He is focusing on same sex marriages and the different problems that occur compared to a traditional marriage.”

Brian and Justin looked at each other and Brian nodded. “We’d love to help if we can.  Mol, we mentioned it to Mom, but we hope you can join us in Montana for Christmas.  We are going up there for at least two weeks, as long as Aiden is doing well.  I am sure we can find room for Spencer if he would like to join us.”

Now it was Molly and Spencer’s turn to look at each other and he nodded slightly.  Molly stepped closer to Brian and Justin before saying softly, “We are going to announce our engagement at Christmas.  We would love to join you in Montana.  Mom had told me about it but I haven’t told her about the engagement yet.”

“I won’t say anything.” Justin said to his sister.  “I’m so happy for you and I have missed you.”

“I hated being away when Aiden was sick.  I’m glad he is doing so much better.”

“No happier than we are.” Brian said and kissed her cheek.  Brian then continued. “May I have everyone’s attention  please?” Everyone turned toward Brian.  “We want to thank you all for coming today.” Justin took Aiden from his mom and Gus joined them.  We could not have made the last couple months without all of your support.  Whether you work at one of our businesses or are family and friends, all of you have been there for us.”

Justin now continued,  “We don’t have time to thank each of you right now but we want you to know that we love each and every one of you.  Please stay as long as you like.  It looks like it is snowing pretty hard outside but we have the fires going and plenty of food and drink.  Enjoy yourselves.”

Victor and Ted were entertaining Aiden when Brian and Justin moved into the kitchen to check on the food supplies.  Justin took the opportunity to press Brian against the counter and kissed him as his hands snuck under his shirt and into the back of his pants. “I love you, Brian.”

“God, I love you.” Brian said as he pulled him even tighter against him.  “I am so glad Gus is going to be back full time.”

“I have missed not seeing him everyday, even if we talked to him.” 

“Who would have guessed last year at this time that we would be here together. I wanted nothing else.” Brian said as he kissed him once more. But we better check on the food and get back to our guests. This will have to wait until we are in bed.”

“I look forward to every minute of it.” Justin gently squeezed his crotch before walking away.

Chapter 10

“When are we going to go? I’m ready to go to the airport!” Gus was very excited.  “This is the first time I’ve been on a private plane.  How big is it? Do you think I can fly the plane?”

“Which question do you want answered first?”  Justin smiled down at Gus and continued. “Once Brian and Aiden return we can pack the vehicle.  They should be home in about half an hour.” Brian had taken Aiden in for a quick blood test.  As long as nothing looked funny, Victor said they could go away for up to a month.

“I hope he is good.  And I’m not saying that because we might have to stay home. I understand.  We want Aiden healthy.”

Justin hugged Gus, “He is so lucky to have you as a big brother.  Why don’t you put on your heavy coat and go outside and play with GC for a little while.  He will have to be in the kennel for most of the flight and I will need to give him a little medicine so he isn’t too nervous.”

“Ok, you’ll call me when you hear from them?”

“Yes, of course I will.” He helped Gus with his boots before he and GC ran out into the snow. His new boots and snowsuit were packed for the trip so these were a touch snug but they would be fine for the next twenty minutes or so. Jenn, Molly and Spencer were going to meet them at the airport.  As soon as Brian arrived home Justin would text his mom so they would all end up at the plane close to the same time.  The pilot said they had an hour window and that window started in two hours which should be plenty of time for Brian to get home and for them to drive to the plane. Justin rechecked Aiden’s medication and his food and snacks. 

Brian called, “Hey, Sunshine, we are leaving now.  Aiden is already in his carseat so we should be there in about 20 minutes.”

“Alright.  The test?”

“Oh, our little guy is so brave.  He barely whimpered when they took the blood and the test came back great.  The medication is doing its job.”

“Thank god.  I will let Gus play outside for another few minutes.  It will wear them both out.”

The call ended and Justin looked out as GC and Gus went down the slide on the swing set landing head first in the snow.  Justin had to smile.  This year had changed so much.  He started out barely hanging on to his sanity after kicking Dak out and being left with an infant to take care of all by himself. And then his knight rescued him.  Brian had changed in all the right ways.  He couldn’t love him more.  They were the family he had always dreamed of.  He had started a business and it was doing well.  Lindsay had fit in perfectly but now she was ready to move on to a teaching position and he had hired someone that is a perfect fit.  He would start after the first of the year. He had never been so happy.  

Justin whistled and GC turned to look at the door.  Gus noticed and looked to see Justin waving him in.  Justin helped him out of his snowsuit and asked him to go change into the clothes he planned to wear on the plane.  Justin then pointed to the fireplace and GC laid down in front of it.  He would be all dry in a few minutes.  Justin went through the checklist in his head and as he heard the SUV pull up he texted his mom and Molly letting them know they would be heading out in half an hour.  He also let them know Aiden was doing well.  The transport to the airport arrived and soon they were on their way.

By the time they got to the small airport, Jennifer, Molly, and Spencer were carrying their small bags onto the plane. Justin carried the car seat up the steps. Gus could barely contain his excitement but helped Brian and the driver put the bags down by the plane and he led a drowsy GC up the steps.  Brian tipped the driver and carried GC’s crate into the plane’s cabin. Justin took Aiden out of his car seat so he could walk around for a few minutes before they took off.  He was a real charmer and knew his aunt Molly was a pushover when he smiled at her and flung himself into her lap. She scooped him up and cuddled her nephew while Spencer watched her. She looked up and caught his eye.

“Spenc, I know we were going to wait but…” Molly said.

“Go ahead.  I wasn’t the one who wanted to wait.”

“Mom, well everyone, Spencer and I have something to tell you.  Actually we have two things to tell you.” Molly passed Aiden over to her mom and dug in her bag before pulling out a ring which she slipped on her finger. “Spenc and I got married.”  

Jenn responded, “You’re what? I was expecting you to tell us you were engaged! When did you get married? Why didn’t I know about it?”

“Mom, we plan to have a wedding yet sometime but when Aiden was sick and we realized we were pregnant, we just wanted to get married.  I am due in May so Aiden will have a cousin just 2 years younger than he is.”

They were still all absorbing the news when the pilot asked them to get in their seats and put their seat belts on.  Justin sat next to Aiden while Brian sat across the aisle from them.  Gus sat next to Jenn while Molly and Spencer sat in the back, murmuring softly.

Once the plane was in the air, the pilot asked if Gus wanted to come sit with him for a while. Brian led him to the front and sat in the jumpseat in the cockpit.

Justin saw that Aiden had fallen asleep so he moved next to his mom and hugged her, “So Grandma, how do you feel?”

“I don’t know if I have realized yet that Molly is actually married and she is going to be a mom.”

“She will be an amazing mom.”

“Oh, I know. I guess I am just a little sad that I wasn’t there when they got married.”

“I can’t believe she did that for us and I am sorry, that is probably why you missed out on it.  I’m sorry we have been taking all your attention.”

“Oh, Justin, all of us would have done anything for that sweet little boy.” Jenn looked over at the sleeping boy.

“You know, Mom, I had no idea how much I would love a child.  I loved Gus from the day I met him but he already was so much like the man I love.  The minute I held Aiden I knew I would die for him without any hesitation and when we found out he was sick, I would have done anything to take all the pain and fear he had.”

“I am so proud of both my kids. You are the best dad I have seen, well you and Brian both and you sure didn’t learn that from your father.”

“No, I learned it from my mother.” He kissed her cheek. “I am going to talk to Mol and Spencer for a couple minutes.”

“I’ll move up next to that beautiful boy so he sees someone if he wakes up.”

Justin moved to the back and sat across from Molly and Spencer.  “I am so happy for the two of you but I feel a little guilty.  I hope you didn’t feel like you couldn’t call Mom.  We could have made it work if she had gone to see you.”

“Bro, that is so sweet but Aiden is a very small boy who needed all the support he could get and when we have our peanut, I plan to steal her at least for a while.”

“Oh, Mol, I don’t think you will be able to keep her away at that point. If I can help at all with the wedding, let me know. Oh, and if you need anything for the baby, let us know.  I have a beautiful cradle that you could use for the first few months and by the time yours needs to move up, we will probably be done with the standard crib.”

“Thanks, Justin, we may take you up on that offer.  We will be fine financially as soon as I finish my master’s which will be just before the baby comes and Spenc has been offered a position at the college. He will have his education completed by the fall. I am so glad I got the student insurance this year. ”

“Well, if you need anything, ask.  Brian and I are here if things are tight this summer.  I know soon you will be fine.”

Molly leaned forward and hugged Justin.  “Thank you, Justin. I have always been able to count on you.”

Justin heard an excited Gus talking to Brian.  “Can’t wait until we can show you our place on the mountain but right now I think I have stories to listen to.” He kissed Molly’s forehead and he stood and walked toward Gus and Brian.  As he approached his family, Brian kissed him lightly and Gus started talking excitedly about how he flew the plane.

The remainder of the flight they ate a light lunch that was supplied by the plane service and then Gus laid next to GC’s crate with a video game. Brian and Justin sat next to each other with Aiden crawling back and forth between them. Brian and Justin started kissing each other and Aiden but soon Aiden was done with it but Brian and Justin weren’t.

Jenn saw what was going from two rows back and she moved up and lifted Aiden off their laps. Brian grabbed for him, thinking he was falling but Jenn touched his shoulder for a second.  “I have him.” Brian glanced up and smiled at her before turning back to Justin and picking up where they had left off. Jenn moved back to where Gus and GC were, giving Brian and Justin a little more privacy.  And face it, she really didn’t want to see how far they were going to go.

When the pilot told them it was time to get ready to land, they were all back in their original spots and soon they were on the ground. By the time the plane was unloaded and the two Land Rovers were loaded.  Jenn, Molly and Spenc were only staying a few days so they figured this made the most sense.

By the time they arrived at the cabin, the sun was dropping and so was the temperature. GC bounded out of the Rover and ran through the snow.  Gus looked up at his dads. He didn’t speak but his eyes said it all.

“Only a few minutes.  It is too cold without all your cold weather gear but slip the boots on and you have a few minutes.  Just come when we call.” Justin kissed Gus’ head as he finished pulling on his boots, hat, and mittens and he was gone, following GC.

Jenn, Molly, and Spencer took the two bedrooms upstairs and Gus was going to camp out on the sofa, while Brian and Justin, along with Aiden, were taking the master downstairs.  The adults were settling into their rooms when Gus came running in, “Someone is coming up the driveway.  Are we expecting someone? It’s an old pickup.”

Brian strode out, “Thanks, Gus.  Why don’t you call GC in the cabin.  I will be right out.”

“Brian, who could it be?” Justin asked as he changed Aiden’s diaper.

“It’s a surprise.” Brian dropped a light kiss on his lips.  “God, I need more of you soon,” and he walked out the door. 

Brian grabbed his jacket while Gus brushed the snow off of GC before the dog dropped in front of the fireplace.  “Hey, Gus,” Brian called, “Before you take off all your stuff come back out here for a minute.”

“Dad, who is it?” Gus followed Brian outside.  Brian walked to the man by the truck and shook his hand. Gus hung back a bit until he realized what was going on.  He then rushed over to help.  Brian and the man were lifting a large Christmas tree out of the bed of the truck and then the man handed his end of the tree to Gus and handed Brian a large bag.  He waved at them, and said Merry Christmas, before getting back into his vehicle and driving away.  

“Let’s get this to the cabin.  We can put it on the porch until we are done with dinner.”

“I hope someone makes dinner soon.  I am really hungry.” Gus commented as they leaned the tree against the wall and entered the house.

“Well, I hope you are hungry for ribs and wings.” He held the bag up he had in his hand. “It will need to be heated but it shouldn’t be much more than 20 minutes and it will be ready.  I think there are some potatoes in here, too.”

Justin walked into the kitchen with Aiden in his arms.  “Hey, Gus, can you keep an eye on your brother for a few minutes.  I need to get dinner going.”

“Sure,” he took Aiden from him, “but Dad has that under control.” He took his brother by the fireplace with GC.

“You have dinner?” Justin walked up to Brian who pulled him close.  

“Don’t sound so surprised.  It’s in this bag.  It needs to be warmed a bit.” Brian kissed him and it took him a minute to let him go. He brought his lips to Justin’s ear and softly said, “I want to spend the night buried deep inside you.”

Justin shivered, “Hold that thought.  We have a house full of hungry people.” Together they put pans of meat and potatoes into the oven to warm through.  To Brian’s surprise there was also some salad and dessert in the bag and a note attached. ‘Merry Christmas! What is dinner without a side and dessert.’ It was signed by the man’s wife.

“What smells so divine?” Molly asked as she and Spenc walked into the kitchen. She peeked in the oven.  “Oh, that looks amazing.”

“Thank Brian.  He thought ahead and ordered food for us.”

“I hope it's ready soon.  She is always hungry since she is housing Junior, too.” He kissed his wife and placed a hand on her abdomen.

“I am sorry the room is a little small up there.  Is it warm enough?”

“It is perfect.  I started the fire up there.  This whole cabin is great.”

“Wait until tomorrow. The view is amazing,” Justin threw out.

“Bri, did you have him drive up here just for our dinner?”

“No, I decided I didn’t want to spend the morning hunting for a tree.  I hope you don’t mind but he brought us a tree.  I figured we could decorate it after dinner tonight or we can wait and do it in the morning because we might all be a little tired with the time change.”

“Oh, that sounds great and if I have a vote,” Molly rested her head on Spencer’s shoulder, “I would prefer tomorrow.  I am exhausted.  I plan to go to bed right after we eat.”

“Considering how quiet Gus is, I think tomorrow is best.” Brian said this as he wrapped his arms around Justin’s shoulders and kissed his neck.  It was obvious what he wanted to do after dinner. “He is sleeping on the sofa so we wouldn’t want him to have to stay up.”

“Sure, Brian, you want to spend the night playing cards with Justin.”

“Well, maybe strip poker.” As Brian said it, Justin reached back and stroked Brian’s fly. “Oh, god, don’t do that right now.”

“I have a feeling dinner is ready,” Justin pulled out the pans while Molly and Brian set the table. Soon they were all sitting around the table eating.  Aiden was obviously feeling better.  Although he was very tired, he smiled at the people who loved him most.  As the food disappeared, Aiden dropped his head on the high chair tray. He tried to keep his eyes open but eventually he lost the battle.  Justin looked at Brian, “Do you want to put him down or help clean up?”

“I think you would be more helpful here.  You know me, I’d just stick everything, as is, in the fridge.” Brian kissed Justin’s cheek and lifted Aiden out of the chair as Justin held the tray.

Jenn sent Molly and Spencer up to their room and Gus laid down on the sofa and was asleep instantly.  Jenn loaded the dishwasher while Justin put the leftovers away and then together they cleaned up the pans.

“Mom, I can finish this. You can go… ”

“I’m fine, Justin.  That little boy of ours is really feeling better, isn’t he?”

“He really is.  Mom, we couldn’t have done it without you the last couple months.  Or if we had, my business would have been forgotten.”

“Justin, you know I would do anything for you and your kids. I’m just glad I can help out.  Soon I will split my time between your place and Molly’s, if she wants me to. This is what I have been dreaming since you were kids.  Spending time with my grandchildren is keeping me young.”

“Mom, you are still young.  You really should be looking for someone to grow old with.”

“Well, son,” she pulled a funny face at him.  “Maybe I will do that when I am really old.  I love my life right now. If I need a change, I’ll let you know.” She looked at her son, “And there is nothing that makes a mom happier than to see her children happy.  I didn’t know how to tell you, but I knew you needed to be with Brian.  Neither of you could be whole without each other.”

“Mom, I knew I made a mistake but I couldn’t go back to him the way things were. And I met Dak and well….”

“It all worked out in the end.  You have that beautiful boy and you live in Pittsburgh again.”

“Life is good, Mom.  I would say all of us have had a good year.”

“Hey, everything Ok in here?” Brian strode in with a pair of sweats hanging low on his hips. “It seems to be taking longer…”

“We were just talking,” Jenn said.  She kissed Justin’s cheek. “We’re done.  I will put the last of these dishes away and you go.”

Justin started arguing but Jenn brought him to Brian’s side and she kissed Brian’s cheek before turning around and going back to the sink.  Justin walked over to Gus and covered him while Brian threw another log on the fire and then they walked back to their room.  Aiden’s crib was in the large walk in closet giving them a little more privacy and yet they could hear him. As they got in bed, Brian instantly pulled him close and kissed him, his hand traveling down Justin’s back, landing on one of his firm ass cheeks.  He pulled Justin tightly against him and then pulled Justin’s top leg onto his hip.

“I love you, Justin.” Brian said as he steadily added pressure and entered him.

“I love you, too.” They lost their ability to talk as they moved slowly in unity. And as the pace picked up, the intensity did, too.  Justin clamped his mouth together as he had an earth shattering climax, not wanting to wake Aiden who was nearby.  As Brian continued moving in and out Justin clung to him until his mouth clamped down on Justin’s mouth as he exploded. Justin held onto him tightly as they both drifted back to earth.

Justin turned his back to Brian and snuggled back, laying against him. Brian held him there with an arm draped over him as he continued to kiss Justin’s neck and shoulder.  “I wanted to do that all day.”

“You always want to do that and I rarely complain,” Justin laughed softly. He turned enough so they could kiss, their tongues playing tag from one mouth to the other. Justin turned to press himself against Brian again and their tongues continued their dance. Eventually they started talking between kisses.

“Bri, did you ever think we would be here together again.”

“Sunshine, you know I am not a praying man but I asked whoever was listening up there to bring you back to me.”

Justin smiled, “I was thinking about when we met.  This place will always be special, although I have to admit that I do appreciate the upgrades we’ve made.”

“Definitely.  I plan to take a long HOT shower with you in the morning.”

“I was thinking maybe we should add a small cabin or bunkhouse.  It wouldn’t need a kitchen.  It would just be nice if it had maybe two rooms, one with a queen size bed and the other with maybe four bunk beds. That way as the family grows we have room for them.”

“I love that.”

“When Mom and I were talking in the kitchen she was talking about the grandkids and I realized I hope someday you and I will be up here with our grandchildren and I want there always to be room for Mom and Mol.”

“Well, Gramps…” Brian kissed him which led to more touching and tasting, “I love that idea.  By then I hope we can spend a lot more time up here. You are doing so well with your business.  My clients that are working with you, too, can’t stop talking about how amazing you are.  One didn’t realize we were married and she made a comment about you being good in bed.  I assured her you were.”

“Who is it? Maybe I should try how the other half…”

Brian’s hand landed a little sharply on his ass and he jumped. “I’m the only one you are sharing that ass with.”

“I don’t think it is my ass she wants.” Justin winked at him.

Brian laughed softly, “Well, she can’t have that either.” He moved down Justin’s body, licking and nibbling. When he got to Justin’s erection he said, “This is all mine, too.”  As he took Justin in his mouth, Justin arched.

“I love you, Brian Kinney,” he said as he again orgasmed.

The next day was Christmas Eve and after eating a big breakfast Jenn and Molly made, everyone decorated the tree together.  After buying the cabin they had found a box of antique ornaments so they used them and then they spent the afternoon stringing popcorn and watching Christmas movies all together. It was fun to watch Molly and Spencer interacting with Aiden and to think that by next winter they would have one of their own.  By late afternoon, the tree was completely done.  Gus was outside with GC, bundled up so much he could barely move.

Justin and Brian watched them running around getting closer and closer to the woods.  “I wish they would move closer to the house.  We both know there are wolves and bears in the woods.” Justin said with a little note of anxiety.

“GC is with him.  His senses are always alert.” Just as Brian said this, Brian and Justin saw GC react to something.  Gus stepped closer to the dog but was frozen in his tracks as they watched something move just beyond the treeline. By now Brian was reacting.  He rushed to the back door and grabbed the BB gun they kept there.  He then rushed out with no coat or boot.  

“Gus, Gus listen to me.  Don’t turn around but start walking backward toward my voice.  I’m going to shoot the BB gun.  It will sound like a real gun, remember but it is just to scare whatever is out there.”  GC moved closer to the tree line and that’s when Brian could see the large wolf stepping closer toward GC.  He could see the hackles of the dog stand up.  Brian could tell Gus had barely moved so Brian shot the gun away from Gus but hit a tree near the wolf. It took a step back and GC took a step closer to the tree line. Brian was moving as fast as he dared, not wanting to draw the wolf’s attention. “Gus, son, put a foot back.  Come toward my voice.”

By now the whole family was on the porch holding their breath.  It was getting darker by the minute and Brian knew they had to be near the house before it was completely dark.  Brian saw movement and Gus must have to because he turned and ran as fast as he could toward Brian.  GC seemed to be everywhere at once. The dog did his best to keep the wolf’s attention while Brian grabbed Gus’ hand and rushed toward the house. As soon as he was in the full light of the house he pushed Gus toward the door where Justin pulled him into the cabin.  

Brian then started shooting in the direction of the wolf and calling GC to come.  What happened next was all a blur but Brian saw the wolf strike out toward GC.  Brian aimed the BB gun and must have hit the wolf because just as it rushed the dog, it yelped and as it stopped GC took the chance to run to where Brian was standing. And they both entered the house.

By the time Brian was in the house, Gus was already in the arms of his grandmother and aunt who were helping him out of his snow gear.  Justin rushed Brian to the living room and dropped to his knees taking off Brian’s shoes and socks. And yelling the whole time.  “What the hell do you think you were doing.  You could have been killed. I told you Gus wasn’t safe.  What if something would have happened to you? A BB gun?  Did you really think you could take care of a wolf with a BB  gun?” It was then that the full weight of what could have happened hit him.  He left Brian’s side and rushed to Gus.  “Oh, Gus, are you alright?” Justin held him tightly for a few moments.

“Justin, is Dad alright? I froze.  I couldn’t move and then I did just what Dad told me not to do.  I was so ….”

“Oh, Gus, you did fine and you and your dad are safe.”

“But is GC alright.  He was so brave!”

That was the first time he thought about the dog.  Justin turned and started looking for GC.  Justin realized there was something on the floor and then he realized it was blood.  He rushed into the living room to find GC on the floor next to the fireplace.  Brian was already looking the dog over.

“Sunshine, go get a towel, something I can use as a bandage.” Justin followed the directions and threw some towels at Brian as he rushed to the bathroom. He grabbed the first aid kit they kept in there.  As he came back he started looking around realizing he hadn’t seen Aiden but then he realized Molly had him in his highchair and she and Spenc were making dinner.  Gus was still in Jennifer’s arms but he seemed much calmer.  He wished he could calm down.  

“Brian, how bad is it?”

“That wolf definitely got a claw in him but I only see the one slash and it seems mostly superficial.” He removed the towel and Justin saw a nasty gash but the bleeding seemed to be under control.

“I don’t know that dogs and humans are the same but I figure we can put some of this on and then wrap it up.” Justin handed him a tube of antibacterial ointment.  Brian wiped the wound once more and then applied the ointment and wrapped the leg before putting tape around it all.  “I’m no doctor or vet but I think this will work.” Brian stopped and looked up.  “Gus, where’s Gus?”

Gus heard his name and came running from the kitchen into his father’s arms. “Oh, Dad, I’m sorry.  I didn’t listen to you.  I tried but I….Oh, no!  GC! Is he alright?”

Brian held onto Gus tightly.  “He is going to be fine, I think.  It is a deep scratch but as long as it doesn’t start bleeding again I think he will be alright. And Gus, you didn’t do anything wrong.  I probably would have done the same thing as you if I had been in the same situation. GC was a brave dog and you were very brave.”

Justin noticed Brian was shivering and draped a blanket over Brian and Gus’ shoulders and then he went to the kitchen. He started making a salad without saying a word. After Jenn checked on the things in the oven, she walked over to her son and put her arm around his waist but he shrugged it off. “Honey, everyone is….”

“Mom, not now.  I need to….”

Jenn kissed Justin’s cheek.  Justin had always had to deal with things on his own terms. He just needed to process what happened.  She had a feeling Brian would be getting an earful tonight but hopefully by tomorrow he would have it out of his system.

By the time everyone sat down for dinner, Gus told everyone the story again.  It was already gaining threads that made it more extreme than it probably was but Gus gave all the credit to his brave pup.  GC was given a large piece of steak for his bravery. Justin remained quieter than usual throughout the meal. He smiled at Gus and hugged him when he got up to start a movie for everyone to watch.  Everyone helped clear the table and when Justin said he would finish up the last pan he sent everyone out of the kitchen.  Brian hung back and waited for everyone else to leave.  He closed the door between the two rooms and took a deep breath to prepare for the fight.

“Sunshine,” Brian said softly, resting his hand on the nape of Justin’s neck.  Justin shrugged away but Brian just put his hand back where he had laid it.  He moved in very close, trapping Justin between the counter and Brian’s body. “I know. If I had listened to you moments earlier Gus wouldn’t have been in danger.  You were right.  Is that what you want to hear? I would die before I let anything happen to either of our sons.  I knew GC would guard him I….I fucked up, and I am so…”

Justin hurled himself at Brian, nearly knocking him over. He held onto Brian’s neck so tightly Brian could barely breathe. Justin’s whole body was trembling now as he began to sob. He had been holding it together for so long.  All through Aiden’s health issues he had stayed strong but this had been the last straw for his emotional dam.  It burst and flooded over.  Brian just held him.  Brian moved to one of the chairs and Justin sat on his lap, resting against his body. After a few minutes Gus peeked in the room. He quietly walked in. “Is everything alright, Justin? You’re missing the movie.”

“Everything’s fine, Gus.  Justin and I will be in, just give us another five minutes.”

“Justin,” Gus walked over and hugged both his dads.  “I’m sorry if I made you so sad.”

“Oh, Gus, I’m not sad. I am just so relieved everyone, including GC, is good but you do have to promise me you won’t go that close to the woods again, at least not that close to dark.”

“I’m sorry you were scared. I love you, Justin.”

“Gus, I love you so much.  I am so glad our whole family is safe and doing well.  You do watch the movie.  We will be right in.”

Gus bounded out of the room.  The fear of earlier in the day was gone and the excitement of Christmas was now palpable. Justin stood and offered his hand to Brian who took it and stood and then pulled him into his arms and kissed him.  “Let’s go watch the movie.  We are going to have to get the presents from Santa under the tree with Gus sleeping right there.”

“We’ll manage.  He will sleep well tonight.” Brian and Justin moved into the living room with the rest of the family.  Brian pulled Justin onto his lap in the overstuffed chair and as a family they all laughed together and when the movie finished, everyone went to bed. Aiden woke when they came on and began fussing so Justin looked at Brian, “Go get him.  He can sleep between us for now.  We can put him back in the crib when we get up to put the presents under the tree.”

Aiden fell back to sleep almost immediately.  Brian and Justin talked softly about the past six months and everything that had happened.  Gus had adjusted so well to living with them and the fact that Melanie and Lindsay were working on their marriage had made a big difference.  He now had two sets of loving parents with stable homes.  Justin’s new business was thriving and Brian’s continued to grow.  The fact that Aiden was sleeping so comfortably between them now with no sign of pain or discomfort was the best thing of all.  He seemed to be getting stronger every day.  Brian ran the back of his hand along Justin’s jaw and then tilted his head and he leaned over to kiss him.

It was midnight and Brian and Justin were both dozing off and on.  “Gus has to be asleep. I’m glad most of the presents are under the tree already.  If you grab the presents from Santa I will block Gus’ view of the tree.  If he wakes up, I’ll just tell him I was checking on GC.”

After putting Aiden in his crib, Brian and Justin made quick work of getting the Santa gifts under the tree and they climbed back into bed and soon the house was completely silent except for the crackling of fires and a soft snoring from some of the sleeping people.

Brian and Justin woke to Aiden calling for them.  “Dada….Papa?” 

Brian rolled out of bed and hugged his little boy before dropping him on the bed next to Justin.  He had barely gotten back under the covers when there was a soft knock.  “Are you awake? I thought I heard you.” Gus was in the hall.

“Come on in, Gus.” Justin said.

“Can we open presents? Santa was here? I don’t know how he got to the tree without me seeing him. I mean I was right by the fireplace.” 

“Well, I will go make sure it is safe for GC to go out and I will start the coffee.  Why don’t you help Justin change Aiden and I think the rest will be down very soon.  Once they smell the coffee, they’ll be awake.” Brian kissed Gus on the top of his head.  “Merry Christmas, Gus.

At 7:09 a.m., everyone was in the living room. Jennifer had stuck breakfast in the oven and all the adults were sipping steaming coffee while Gus had hot chocolate. More than once GC took a taste of the hot chocolate when Gus wasn’t looking.  

Gus passed out all the packages.  The adults watched the boys open their gifts.  Aiden squealed with joy when he saw his new toys.  Each boy had gotten four gifts.  One from Jenn. One from Molly and Spencer. One from their fathers and one from Santa.  They had decided their kids didn’t need more stuff so they had gone to several places and gave gifts for those who wouldn’t have much for Christmas.  They could give their boys everything they needed but they wanted to teach them how to give back to others.  

Once the kids were done opening the adults opened their gifts. Gus had made something for everyone and they all were touched by his thoughtfulness.  The remainder of the day they played games around the table and later started a puzzle.  GC acted as if nothing had happened the day before although he did seem to keep closer to the house.

As night fell, Jenn, Molly and Spencer spent time packing.  They were leaving in the morning. They had planned to stay one more day but a storm was moving in and Molly and Spencer had to go to Spencer’s family and tell them the good news so they had decided to leave a day early.

It began to snow before sundown on the 26th.  They had gotten word from Jenn they had arrived home safely so Brian and Justin, along with their boys were all alone in the comfortable mountain cabin.  After the small family had eaten dinner the wind began to blow. Gus moved upstairs and was ready for a little time alone.  GC went upstairs and immediately jumped on bed with his boy.  Aiden was also put to bed upstairs with a baby monitor.  Brian and Justin sat in front of the fireplace listening to the wind blow as they drank whiskey.

Justin laid his head on Brian’s shoulder, “Are you having flashbacks?”

“Except for a fridge full of food and warmth, and hot water, and….”

“Way to ruin the romantic mood.” Justin laughed as he took a sip of the amber liquid.

“Justin Taylor, yes the setting right now does bring back so many memories of when we met but, I don’t need all this to remember how much I love you.  It was in this place when I knew I would never find someone else to love.  You were the only person made for me.  Yes, this place is special but it is special because you and I are here together. And this is where we found each other. I know we both made mistakes but we realized it  and now we are here again.”  Brian raised his class and Justin tapped it with his own.  “To New Beginning.” Brian kissed Justin.

“To New beginnings,” Justin said and drained his glass. “Brian?”

“Yes, Sunshine?”

Justin stood and offered Brian his hand, “Let’s go to bed.”

“Now that is something I will never argue with.” And with that, Brian led the way to the bedroom as they heard a wolf howl in the distance.

The End