CHAPTER 1 – PLANS ARE AFOOT

 

DINER – TUESDAY MORNING

 

MICHAEL

 

I’m waiting for Emmett to turn up.  I’ve been waiting for the last 20 minutes.  I’m slightly pissed off because Brian was supposed to come for breakfast too but he had a client meeting at Kinnetic so he and Ted are there instead.

 

“Hi-hi!”  Emmett’s voice cuts through my thoughts.  “How are you this morning?  Ooh Debs a breakfast special please?!”

 

“Be right there!”  Ma calls back.

 

“So how are you?”  Emmett removes his fedora and places it reverentially on the seat next to him.  “Are you feeling as neglected as I am?”

 

“Neglected?”  I look at him confused.

 

“Yeah, we’ve not seen Brian and Ted for ages.  No matter what we arrange, they put Kinnetic first.”  He sighs.  “Happily, they’re meeting us on Thursday at Woody’s…”

 

“We’re meeting then?”  My frown deepens.  “I didn’t know that.”

 

“Yes at seven and this time they promised.”  He replied sipping his coffee.

 

“Sorry, wait start again... who promised what?”  I demand.

 

He cocks his head and raises an eyebrow.  “I shall let that one pass because you are obviously missing your bestie as much as I am.  So to recap…a week or so ago, Brian and Ted promised on the memory of Marilyn Monroe to be there at seven on Thursday…”

 

“Emmett…”  I sigh.  “I don’t understand the drama. Brian and Ted are busy men and unlike you, I know this and understand.”

 

Emmett slowly puts his cup down and rests his chin on his hand.  “So it wasn’t you bitching in Babylon last Friday because Brian had to go to Vancouver last minute?”

 

I sit back and fold my arms in annoyance.  “I wasn’t bitching!  I just didn’t understand why he couldn’t take me with him…”

 

“Because he would be working.”  Ma interrupts our conversation putting Emmett’s plate down and earning his clapping-fucking-seal impression.  “He’s been working so hard these last few months. I’m so proud of him, how he’s made Kinnetic into what it is.”

 

Emmett nods while chewing.  “The boys need a break though!  I don’t think they have had…”

 

“Hey Debs, can I put this poster up?”  Marcel from Woody’s interrupts our conversation.

 

“Sure honey, what is it?”  Ma asks, taking it from him.  “Ooh a prize draw for a…are you fucking with me?!”

 

“Ma, what is it?”

 

“How the hell did you manage that Marcel?!”  She lays the poster on the table.

 

“Nothing to do with me.”  He laughs.  “This is everything to do with VanGuard Advertising.”

 

“Those bastards who fired Brian?!”  Ma bridles, going to hand the poster back with a look of disgust.

 

“Ma, it was years ago!  Brian is over it! You should let it go too.  Besides look at where he is now!”  I object.

 

“Yeah…I suppose.  Okay.  Put it up.”

 

“Thanks Debs.”   He heads to the counter for pins, puts it up and is gone.

 

“So... what is the prize?”  Emmett asks, who was too busy checking his phone and eating to pay attention.

 

“A month long cruise on the Seabird Cruise Ship for two.  All expenses paid.”

 

“What do you need to do?!”  Emmett squeals.

 

“Business card in the jar on the counter in…”

 

“Debs!  Order up!”

 

Ma plasters on her best glare and stomps to the hatch.

 

“Well Sweetums, I have an appointment across town.”  Emmett stands up.  “See you later, perhaps?”

 

“Yeah okay.”  I reply, waving him away with a scowl on my face.

 

“I’m not something you’ve stepped in Michael!  Don’t do that!”  He hisses at me and stalks off.

 

“Ouch Ma!”  I yelp as her hand connects with the back of my head.  “What the fuck?!”

 

“You were rude to Emmett!”  She sits down opposite me.  “And shouldn’t you be in the store?”  She looks at me meaningfully.

 

“Ma, I open late on a Wednesday.”  I reply folding my arms.

 

“It’s Tuesday Michael.  So get your ass out of here and earn a living!”

 

I get up and make my way to the store.

 

RED CAPE COMICS

 

NATHAN

 

I couldn’t understand how the man makes so little money in this store but it looks the way it does. But then I found out he’s the best friend of Brian Kinney, so I guess he’s had something to do with it.

 

The door heralds the return of the bestie. Seriously, the way he lords it over me is irritating but he pays well.

 

“How’s it been?”  He asks.

 

“Okay.  Since you’re back, I can do the stock intake spreadsheet while you…”

 

“No I’ll do the spreadsheet and you deal with the customers.”  He interrupts sharply and stalks upstairs.

 

Oh well back to World of Warcraft.

 

OFFICE

 

MICHAEL

 

The back of my head is still throbbing slightly.  Both Emmett and Ma overreacted to what I did and said.  I sit down and go through the spreadsheet.  My mind drifts to the conversation about Brian needing a break and suddenly an idea hits me.

 

WOODY’S BAR

 

OFFICE

 

MARCEL

 

“Woody’s this is Marcel.  Oh hi.  Uh yeah.  You want me to do what?  So what’s in it for me?  Make it $200 and I’ll make it happen.  Half now; half after.  Fine.”

 

I put the phone down and chuckle.  Well at least the rest of us get a chance!  Even tired he’s still the Stud of the Avenue.

 

KINNETIC – THURSDAY EVENING

 

BRIAN’S OFFICE

 

BRIAN

 

Ted and I exchange tired looks. We have signed another client and we’re heading to meet the boys.

 

“Did we actually promise to do this?”  Ted grumbles.  “I mean, is it written in blood somewhere?”

 

I help him into his coat.  “We don’t have to have it written in blood. We have it written in memory of Marilyn Monroe and we can’t break that.”

 

“Marilyn…you had to say that?!”  He shakes his head.  “Come on let’s go.”

 

WOODY’S

 

MARCEL

 

The place is crammed as it’s the draw tonight.  I have $100 burning in my pocket and although it’s tempting to give him a bit of a slap, I’ve seen Kinney around. Although the guy is a consummate asshole, he’s an honest one.

 

But I admire him for another reason, he works fucking hard and makes sure that the people he cares about are looked after.  I’m not sure that Debs knows that he owns the diner.

 

“Attention people!  The Seabird Cruise Prize Draw will take place in 30 minutes!”

 

There is whooping and cheering and Michael and I exchange knowing looks.  Kinney and Ted come in and head to their table.

 

MICHAEL

 

“You made it!”  I hug Brian tightly and smile at Ted.

 

“I’m feeling the love Michael, feeling the love!”  Ted mutters but then he is swept into Emmett’s arms.

 

“Teddy!”  He grins at him and then tips up his chin.  “Oooh you look like you need about 10 years sleep!”  He turns to Brian.  “And as for you…”

 

“Finish that sentence and die Honeycutt!”  Brian snaps.

 

“Ooh grumpy big bad!  And don’t call me Honeycutt!  I think drinkies are called for.  Come along Michael, let’s let them get settled. So Beam and Perrier for you Teddy?”

 

“Can’t you take Ted?”  I ask.

 

“No I can’t Michael!  Now come!”      

 

By the time we muscle our way to the bar, it has taken about 10 minutes.  “Emmett…”

 

Emmett stops me with a glare.  “Brian is here.  Just let him decompress for a minute or two for fuck’s sake!”

 

EMMETT

 

I look at the sulky expression on Michael’s face and at first I think he’s going to stomp back to the table.

 

“You’re up Emmett.”  He growls.  “Let’s just order.”

 

“Fine.  Marcel sweetie, can we have a Cosmo, a beer, Perrier and a…yes, a double Beam please?”

 

“Sure no problem. You guys go sit and I’ll bring it in a few.”

 

Michael almost breaks into a run.  I just shake my head and Marcel laughs.

 

BRIAN

 

I am this close to going home to sleep!  I am so tired!  When Marcel comes to the table with the drinks, I actually take my time because I know if I neck it back, I will be out cold in seconds!

 

“So Michael, Emmy what have you been up to today?”  I ask.

 

“Well…”  Emmy starts but is cut off immediately.

 

“I did inventory and…”  Michael interrupts but I’m too tired to roll my eyes so I just stare ahead.

 

“Attention everyone, the drawing for the cruise is about to take place!”  Marcel yells and the bar goes quiet.  He fishes around in the bowl and after another minute, he grins.  “And the winner is Brian Kinney!”

 

“Brian you won!”  Michael is shouting at me.

 

“Won what?”  I don’t remember entering a prize draw.

 

“A month long cruise for two!  We are going to have an excellent time; I can’t wait!”

 

“What?!”  Ted and I yell at the same time.

 

KINNETIC – FRIDAY AFTERNOON

 

CYNTHIA’S OFFICE

 

CYNTHIA

 

I look through the paperwork for the cruise and it looks excellent.  I have to admit to being a bit jealous.  Brian swears he didn’t enter a draw but they say they have his card.  To be honest, I think it’s a great idea that he goes away.  I don’t think he’s had time off in the last 4 years.

 

I hear the tapping that can only mean one thing…Ted.

 

“Come in.”

 

“Tell me there’s no way he can get out of this?!”

 

“They can re-draw the prize but I’m going to tell him he can’t get out of it.”

 

“Oh thank you!  Thank you!”

 

He virtually skips back to his office.

 

DEB’S HOUSE – SUNDAY AFTERNOON

 

LOUNGE

 

DEBS

 

“Kiddo.  Brian.  Wake up!”  I whisper, he doesn’t move so I shake him.  He opens his eyes, and adjusts a dozing Gus.  “Come on you two let’s eat.”

 

He gently wakes Gus up, who clings sleepily onto him.  Vic sighs heavily. He, like me, is worried about him.

 

“So this cruise you’ve won...  Please tell me you’re taking it?”  He asks.

 

“Yeah.  Time off on his dime while we are doing so well and he’s sinking is a good idea and ironic in a way.”

 

“Good.  Now where is it going?  I’m so jealous.”  Mel asks, taking Gus’s off him but then he sleepily grumbles so she hands him back.

 

Now there is another revelation.  The friendship between Brian and Mel has grown now that Lindsay is no longer in the picture.  She wanted another baby with Brian.  But he said only if he got his rights back for Gus and kept his rights for the next baby would he do that.  Lindsay was furious.  She was even angrier when Mel said she wanted to carry the next baby and when Brian said okay, I didn’t think it was possible for a person to go that colour.  For months, nothing happened and at first Mel thought it was something to do with her endometriosis coming back.

 

Then one night she and Brian got drunk while they were waiting for Lindsay to come home.  They decided to do it themselves and he jizzed into a cup and two months later, she’s pregnant.   After previous failures, Lindsay accused Mel of cheating on her and demanded that she have an abortion. In the ensuing row, it came out what she was doing, or not doing as the case turned out to be.  The shady bitch wasn’t actually inseminating Mel but injecting Brian’s seed into the mattress guaranteeing that if she wasn’t going to carry Brian’s next child, neither was Mel.  Well that was it for Mel and Brian.  Now they’re bringing Gus up together and will do the same with the new baby.  As for Lindsay, well she turned out to be the one cheating again and with Sam Auerbach, no less. She gave up her rights and now she’s with him.

 

“All round the Caribbean.”  Ted grins.  “A whole month of sun, sea and sex.  It’s a gay, but family friendly, cruise ship.  Just think Kinney, all those men and you nearly naked.”

 

“Us.”  Brian smirks and then feeds Gus from his plate.

 

“Pardon?”  Ted gapes.

 

“What?”  Michael looks around.  “What do you mean?  The tickets are for two.  I was looking forward to it.”

 

“And you still can.  It’s just that Kinnetic is busy and I have a couple of campaigns that I am working on that really need our input.  And Ted also needs a break, so you are coming with me…”

 

“Oh.”  Ems sighs sadly.

 

“Emmy, you’re coming too.  I have my best friend so naturally Ted has to have his.”

 

“Really?!  Are you serious?!”  Ems squeals.

 

“And Mel I would take you too but there’s the little matter…”

 

She waves it away with a smile.  “Why not take Vic?”

 

“What a great idea!”  I cry.  “Please Brian, take him with you!”

 

“Oh no I couldn’t.  This old man on a boat with all those young pretty things…”

 

“So that’s a yes, then?”  Brian grins, his eyes dancing. Now he doesn’t look tired; he looks excited.

 

“Vic come on!  Go!”  Mel orders.  “Debs and I will woman the fort.  You know you want to.”

 

“Daddy?”  Gus looks up at him.  “Are you going away for a long time?”

 

“Yes Sonny Boy. There are a lot of sleeps between the time we leave until the time we come back.”

 

His bottom lip starts to wobble.  “So I won’t see you for a long time?”

 

“Yes of course you will.”  He smiles and I frown.

 

“How?”

 

“Well you, grandma and Momma will be in Britin while we’re away.  And we can FaceTime once a week.”

 

“Really daddy?!”  He bounces on his lap.  “I can sleep in my big-big room?”

 

“Yes really Sonny Boy.  Now go sit with Momma.  I need to call Cynthia to book another suite.”

 

He strides into the lounge and although Ted looks exasperated, there is a bit of relief in his face.  Vic and Ems are chattering about the cruise having pulled it up on his iPad but it’s the look on Michael’s face that gives me pause.

 

“Okay I need to clear up.  You guys go in the lounge.  Michael, can you give me a hand?”

 

KITCHEN

 

“What’s wrong Michael?”  I nudge him with my hip.

 

“I just wanted it to be Brian and me.  I don’t see why everyone else has to come too.”

 

I sigh and put down the dish I’m washing.  “And why should it just be you and Brian?  This is a Good Ship FuckFest not the Love Boat.  Besides, I thought you were a little high handed to automatically assume that Brian would be taking you.”

 

“I’m his best friend!  Who else would he take?!”  He snaps and storms out the back door.

 

GARDEN

 

MICHAEL

 

I can’t believe virtually everyone is coming and that Mel and Ma are staying at Britin.  I haven’t stayed overnight there yet!  But I didn’t drop $200 to get Brian on this cruise for my chance to convince him that it’s time for the Brian and Mikey show to move from PG to Rated R, only to see it wasted!

 

I’ve waited long enough.  Brian Kinney will be mine and mine alone!

 

MEL’S HOUSE – THREE DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE

 

LOUNGE

 

MEL

 

“Hey it’s me.  He’s gone very quiet again.  I know I know but the closer it gets… Can you come over?”

 

I look at our son. He’s said he’s fine with his daddy going away for a month but I know he’s not.  He’s only 4 and with Lindsay gone, it must be confusing for him.

 

“Momma.  Are you double sure we can speak to daddy every week?”

 

“Yes I’m double sure.”  I scoop him up so he sits next to me.

 

“Could we maybe speak every two days?”  He looks so hopeful and my heart breaks a bit.

 

“Um…”

 

The arrival of Brian interrupts us and he’s chattering on the phone.  “It’s done, yeah another two thanks Cyn, and next to me, no I promise 50% bonus. You’ve more than earned it.”

 

As per usual, when daddy is on the phone Gus waits until it goes in his pocket to barrel into him.

 

“Daddy!”  He shrieks, flying full pelt into Brian’s arms.  “You’re here!  I’m so happy!”

 

“I’m happy too Sonny Boy.”  He blows a raspberry on his neck then sits next to me.  “Momma tells me that you’re upset about me going on holiday soon.  Is that right?”

 

My eyes fill with tears as it takes every ounce of strength in his little body to be a big boy and not cry.

 

“We-well I am going to miss you lots and…and I would really like to speak to you every day and…”

 

“So you only want to speak to me, you don’t want to see me?”  There is something in Brian’s voice that gets my attention and I sniff.

 

“Momma, shall I get you a tissue?”  Gus asks, squirming off the sofa to get the box.

 

“Th-thank you Gus.”

 

“So you don’t want to see me Sonny Boy?”  Brian tries again.

 

“Of course daddy!  So we’re going to FaceTime every day?”

 

“Not quite.”  He grins.

 

“But if we don’t FaceTime, then how do I see you?”  Gus frowns and then falls silent and the moment he realises, he screams the place down.  “Really daddy?!  Really?!  I’m going with you?!”

 

“Yes you and Momma are coming with me as well as grandma and…uh Gus, where are you going?!”

 

“To pack daddy!  Momma come help!”  He yells as he disappears up the stairs.

 

 

CHAPTER 2 – AND WE’RE OFF AND IT’S DEFINITELY…WE!

 

PITTSBURGH QUAYSIDE

 

EMMETT

 

Oh my God, this boat is gorgeous!  I still can’t believe we’re here!  Of course, we are waiting for Teddy and Brian. They had a last minute meeting and that went down so well with one particular person!  I hope that Michael gets over his pouting soon.

 

“Come on Michael, it’s going to be great!”  I try and jolly him along and hope that he takes his head out of his ass.  He needs to help with the unloading of the cases.

 

“Suppose so but I would’ve preferred…”

 

“Michael, can you give me a hand please?”  Vic interrupts him and I want to smack him when he rolls his eyes.  “Just take this one for me.”

 

Unfortunately, the handover doesn’t go well and Vic’s case crashes to the ground. While it does break, it doesn’t break open.  The glare that Vic gives Michael could give Medusa a run for her money.  It’s the case that contains his pills.

 

“Michael, for goodness sake!”

 

“What?!”  He retorts looking back at Vic.

 

“Ted and Brian will be here!  Concentrate!”  He snaps.

 

Finally all the cases are unloaded.  I frown at the distinct lack of cases for Michael.  “Michael, how many bags are you taking?”

 

“Those two over there.”  He points them out.

 

“For a month?”  Vic looks incredulous.

 

“Yes.  Why?”  He looks between the two of us in confusion.

 

“No…”

 

“Besides, if I need more clothes, I can buy more on the ship or wherever we stop off.”  He declares airily.

 

I roll my eyes and avoid looking at Vic as we both know that his ‘I’ means ‘Brian’ and I sigh.

 

“Isn’t that Ted?”  Vic starts waving.  “Looks like we’re going to be waved off!”

 

I look up and see Teddy and Brian and they have Mel, Gus and Debs with them.

 

“Finally!”  Michael almost teases.  “Thought you weren’t coming.”

 

“Oh you know me Michael.”  Brian smirks.  “I always come.”

 

I gape behind him as case after case after case is unloaded.

 

“Jesus Brian, how much have you packed?!”  Vic laughs.

 

“Kinney Party!”  A voice booms out.

 

“Over here!”  Ted calls out.

 

“Great! I’m Blake!  Where are your cases?  Let’s get them loaded first.”  He signals some people over.

 

After 20 minutes, the cases are all on board. Brian has been with Gus the entire time, pointing out things on the quayside to him.

 

“He’s going to miss him.”  Vic sighs and I nod.

 

“Okay we’re ready for boarding!”  Blake tells us.  “Where’s Mr Kinney?”

 

“Over there.”  I point.  “Brian!  We’re boarding!”  I shout out.

 

He scoops Gus up and is with us in seconds.  “Sorry Gus wanted another picture of the boat.”

 

“No problem.  Are we all ready?”  Blake grins.

 

“Yeah!  The five of us are going to have an incredible time!”  Michael smiles.

 

“Five?”  Blake questions and looks at his paperwork.  “I have a party of eight.  Isn’t…”

 

“Surprise!”  Debs squeals.

 

“Surprise?  What surprise?”  I query, hoping against hope that it is what I think it is.

 

“We’re coming too!”  She beams.

 

“Yes!”  I clap happily.

 

“You’re coming with us?!”  Michael gapes.

 

“Is that a problem for you Michael?  If so, why?”  Debs glares at him.

 

“I-I-I’m just surprised that’s all.”  He lowers his eyes so she doesn’t see his anger.  But I do.

 

“Hmm!”  Debs growls.  “Now come on, let’s get this holiday started!”

 

MICHAEL

 

I can’t fucking believe this!  As if it wasn’t bad enough that Ted, Emmett and Vic are here but now Ma, Mel and Gus are here too!  I try to recover from my shock and follow them to our floor just shaking my head!

 

“Okay here we are!”  Blake calls out. “These are the suites for Michael Novotny and Deborah Novotny and Vic Grassi!”

 

“Oh honey, just call me Debs!”  Ma calls out and I cringe a bit.

 

I quickly look in and to say it looks great is an understatement, I can’t wait to see our suite!  As I follow them, I notice that Emmett and Mel are looking at me.

 

“What?”  I ask.

 

“Why are you following us?”  Emmett asks.

 

“I want to see your suites, of course.”  I frown and shake my head.

 

“The suites for Emmett Honeycutt and Ted Schmidt!”  Blake beams and my heart begins to race.

 

As I follow Brian and Mel, I catch the frown on both their faces and roll my eyes.

 

“And finally, the suites for Melanie Marcus and Gus Kinney. This interconnects with the suite for Brian Kinney!”

 

They are like palaces.  Gus is awestruck and at first reluctant to go in. Blake waits patiently while Brian and Melanie coax him to look at stuff. Meanwhile, I am grinding my teeth in frustration. I just want to see our suite!

 

“So daddy, you’re just next door?”  Gus is clutching onto his hand.

 

“Yes just next door.”  Brian reassures him and carries him to the interconnecting door.  “See this door here? This leads to where I’m sleeping but you must knock first.”

 

“Yes Gus, definitely knock!”  Mel snickers and Brian sticks his tongue out.  “Now come on, let’s look around some more.”

 

Finally, we get to our suite!

 

“Mr Kinney, here we are!”  Blake trills and opens the door.

 

It is gorgeous! It is split between a bedroom and living area with a luxurious bathroom.  We also have a balcony.

 

“Wow!  Brian, it’s incredible!”  I cry looking around.

 

“Michael?  What are you doing here?”  Brian looks surprised.  “Is there a problem with your suite?”

 

My suite?

 

“Sorry Brian.”  Ted interrupts.  “But the Compactism People are on the phone. We really need to take this.”

 

“Okay.”  He sighs.  “Go in the lounge Ted, I’ll be there in a minute.”  He turns back to Blake and me.  “Blake, thanks for showing us up. It’s really incredible.  Will you be our steward for the entire trip?”

 

“No, that would be Ethan. Ethan Gold.  I was just filling in for him this morning.  I’m normally in the medical unit.”

 

“Oh okay, well it’s nice to meet you but I really need to get on that call.  Can you take Michael back down to his suite?”

 

MY SUITE???!!!

 

“Of course.  Mr Novotny, this way...”  Blake smiles and opens the door. I mutely follow him out.

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

I’m steaming mad!  Third floor, I’m on the third floor!  I don’t even have a balcony, for fuck sake!  How did Emmett get second floor?!

 

There’s a knock on the door and I smile. Obviously, they’ve realised their mistake.  I open the door and a steward comes in with cases.

 

“Hi my name is Ethan.  Here are your cases.”  He smiles at me but I’m too pissed off to care.

 

“Put them over there.” I order and stomp back to the sofa and sit down.  “Was there something else?”

 

“No nothing at all.”  He retorts and leaves.

 

ETHAN

 

Jesus what a fucking jerk!  I roll the trolley to the next floor and they are a lot friendlier.  Emmett seems like a laugh although Ted seems as boring as hell.  Melanie, or Mel, as she insists on being called seems nice and Gus is a cutie.  Right, the final suite.  I knock on the door and I’m gobsmacked!

 

He is fucking gorgeous!  And almost fucking naked!

 

“Mr…Mr Kinney?”  I stammer…please be Mr Kinney or you will be a bitch to find!  I almost weep with relief when he nods.  “I’m Ethan... Ethan Gold. I’ll be your steward for your trip.”

 

“Oh fine, nice to meet you.  Can you leave the cases over there?”  He pads back towards the bathroom and I will the towel to slip down, but it didn’t.

 

Then I take a look at the cases and they are the real thing. This man has some serious money!

 

“If there is anything else you need Mr Kinney, anything at all, you have my personal beeper!”

 

“Fine!  Thank you Ian!”

 

BRIAN

 

I thought that chinrat would never leave!  I take a good look in the mirror and sigh.  I look hot but I also look tired.  The door knocks again. If it’s chinrat wanting me to beep him, I shall be pissed!  Then I realise it’s from the connecting door.  I pull on some pants and open the door to Mel.

 

“There’s a Kids Club on the lower deck so I’m going to take Gus down to check it out once he’s up from his nap.”

 

“Oh great.”

 

“So go find some stress relief!”  She grins at me and closes the door.

 

Yes!

 

I head to the lower decks to scope out a reliever as Mel put it and spot a likely candidate.  We give each other the nod and I follow him to the bathroom. I have to hand it to Gardner. This is an impressive ship, but I’m not thinking about that right now.

 

“Suck me off.”  I order and close my eyes. One mediocre blowjob later, I turn him around.

 

“You’re kidding right?”  He pants as I work his hole.  “You’ve just…oh God!”

 

As I thrust into him, I can feel the tension of the last few months melting away.  “Fuck!”  I shout and come hard.

 

“Shit!”  He yells and spurts across the door. I pull out and ditch the condom.  He’s still slumped against the door.

 

“Dude, you okay?”  Not that I care but he’s blocking the exit.

 

“Yeah, just need to get my breath back.”  He gasps.

 

“Can you let me out then do that?”  I grumble and start to tug him away from the door.

 

“Do you want my room number?”  He looks hopeful.

 

“No thanks.  But it’s been fun.”  I saunter out and head to the bar.

 

MICHAEL

 

I finally found my way up to Brian’s suite having got a bit lost coming up here.

 

“Brian!”  I shout and knock at the same time.

 

“Michael?”  Mel pokes her head out of her suite.  “What are you doing? Gus is asleep.”

 

“Looking for Brian.”  I reply. I’m still pissed she’s up here and I’m not.

 

“He’s gone down to the bar, I suspect.”

 

Ten minutes later, I’m down at the Tiger Bar and trying to find him.

 

LILAH’S BAR

 

FRANC

 

I love my job, correction I love my jobs!  I have only just forgiven my idiotic stepbrother, Ray, for giving Ethan the grand suites!  I told him before I went not to do that but of course he has to show how good a decision maker he is.  Well he will reap what he sows because eventually, as usual, complaints will come through.

 

As First Mate on this ship, I have to step up if anything happens to Ben.  But right now, I’m very happy with my other job, which is bar person and chef.  I watch the patrons come in and smile fondly at some regulars and peruse the newbies.

 

We have to have a dinner with the prize draw winners at least once a week so that should be interesting.

 

“Hi-hi!”  A voice trills and I look up and find myself grinning back at a tall flamboyant man.  “I am Emmett and this is…where is he?  One minute.  Teddy, will you come on!”

 

I try to crane my head around the corner to see Teddy.  Emmett comes back with him and virtually shoves him into a seat.

 

“This is Teddy.  And come-come, you are?”

 

“Franc, nice to meet you both.”  I can’t help grinning back. This man is seriously adorable!

 

“Short for?”  Emmett looks knowingly at me.

 

“Francesca.”

 

“Oh Franc is definitely better.  Now I would like your finest Cosmo and Teddy will have one of your finest bottles of alcohol free sparkliness.”

 

“And I’ll have a Beam please?”  A rich voice behind me adds. I turn and blink. Now I know gorgeous and he is gorgeous with a capital G. DAMN!

 

Please do not be the winner, please do not be the winner!

 

“Franc this is Brian, Brian this is Franc.  He won the prize draw!”  Emmett smiles.  “And he insisted that the rest of us come with!”

 

Fuck!

 

“Of course you are.”  I sigh crossly.

 

“Excuse me?”

 

“May I have a word?”  I gesture him to the other side of the bar.  “Apologies for that.  But I’m also apologising in advance for um…”

 

“Ian?”  He’s smiling at me.

 

“Ian?  Oh you mean Ethan!  Yes him.”  I grin back.  “He can be a little…”

 

“Over appreciative?”  He quirks an eyebrow.  “If it were big enough, he could take an eye out with that thing!”

 

I snort with laughter.  “I can’t, thank God, vouch for that, but if he’s giving you issues let me know.”

 

“Sure.”

 

We rejoin Emmett and Ted who have also been joined by a rather distinguished man that turns out to be Vic and his sister Debbie.

 

I move them to the alcove and prepare their drinks.

 

“But you didn’t tell me it was a gay cruise!”  A man grumbles rather loudly.

 

“Will you keep your voice down?!”  The other guy looks around embarrassed.  “Would you have come if I had told you?”

 

“Of course not!”  He shoots back.

 

“Which is why I didn’t tell you.  Now stop griping and start enjoying yourself.  You’ve got a tender heart in there to put together and this is the perfect place for it.  Not a chance in hell of you, actually either of us, meeting anyone here!”

 

“My name is Franc, what can I get you boys?”

 

“Boys?  Not for a long time!  I’m Rodney and this is my friend Carl.  I would love a nice glass of red and he’ll have a beer.”

 

“Coming up.”

 

MEL

 

Gus is tripping over his feet as he looks round the gangway as we head to the Kids Club.

 

“Gus honey, look where you’re going.”  I chide him gently.  “We’re here.”

 

I take a look through the window and feel good about what I see.  Lots of smiles and other parents are in there.

 

“Hi can I help…Mel?”

 

“Leda? Oh my God Leda!”  I throw my arms around my old college friend.  “What the hell are you doing here?!”

 

“Working, of course!  Now come on in!  Let me get the kid charmer.”

 

“Kid charmer?”  I repeat.  “Um Leda, what are you talking about?”  But she’s gone to the office.

 

I can’t believe Leda is here, I haven’t seen her for years and she looks good!  I always had a soft spot for her.

 

“Hi I’m Justin.” I jump a bit and find myself looking at what can only be described as a beautiful man.

 

“I’m Mel and this is…”

 

“Can I take over here?”  Justin asks and I nod then he sits on the floor in front of me.

 

“Now I can see a teddy bear behind mommy.  Does the bear have a name?”

 

Silence.

 

“Uh…”  I begin.

 

“Leather Bear.”  Gus answers.

 

Leather Bear Leda mouths at me and I resolve to kill Brian!

 

“Well hi Leather Bear, my name is Justin.”  Justin grins up at me.  “You know Leather Bear, you’re very polite.  Would you introduce me to your friend behind you?”

 

Gus looks behind him.  “There’s nobody behind me.”  He replies quietly.

 

“Sure there is Leather Bear.  Look there’s me, mommy, you and…”

 

“Gus.”

 

“Well it is a pleasure to meet such fine gentlemen as yourselves.  Now Gus and Leather Bear, do you think you could come out from behind mommy?”

 

“What do you think Leather Bear?”  Gus whispers and after a minute he comes to stand by my side.

 

“Like I said, meet the kid charmer!”  Leda giggles.

 

LILAH’S BAR

 

TED

 

Brian is coming back from another rendezvous strutting like the Stud that he is.  Before that would really annoy me but over the years working with him I’ve come to realise that it’s all, mostly, a façade.

 

“So out of 10 how was he?”  I chuckle as he crumples up the piece of paper.

 

“If I was feeling generous a 3 but I’m not so a 2.”  He grins back.

 

“Has anyone seen Michael?”  Vic asks.

 

“He was at your suite about half hour ago.”  Mel answers sitting down.  She looks longingly at the booze on the table.  “Shouting and knocking.”

 

“Did he wake up Gus?”  Brian frowns.

 

“No. Luckily, I got there first.”  She shakes her head.  “You have to tell him not to do that.”

 

“I’ll tell him!”  Debs snaps. “That boy is so idiotic sometimes. He needs to focus on something else!”

 

We all exchange knowing looks, because that is not going to happen.

 

“And speaking of Gus. Explain Leather Bear.”  Mel tilts her head and snickers as Brian snorts into his drink.

 

“Oh he finally told you his name.”  Brian laughs.

 

“It was so embarrassing in front of Leda and…”

 

“Brian!”  Michael rushes over.  “Where have you been?  I’ve been looking for you all over!”

 

He stares hard at me.  “What is it Michael?  Do I have something on my face?”

 

“Excuse me sir, I need to put the drinks down.”  The waiter interrupts.

 

“No Ted, you don’t but…”

 

“Michael come order a drink.”  Debs tells him and pulls him to the bar.

 

DEBS

 

“What the hell were you thinking?” I demand and he looks confused then annoyed at something behind me.  “Michael!”

 

“About what?”  He snipes.

 

“Going to Brian’s suite and hammering the place down like it’s the loft!”  He rolls his eyes.  “You can’t do that with Gus next door. You could scare him!”

 

“Ma please, Gus knows my voice…”

 

“Not at top volume, he doesn’t!  He doesn’t live with Brian.  Now cut that shit out!”  I order and head back to the table.

 

MICHAEL

 

I watch as Brian lopes away from the table. Now’s my chance!  I dash back and I hope everyone moves up so that there is a space left next to me and they do!

 

“So you guys want to eat something?”  The waiter asks.  “She makes them pretty strong so maybe you should have some nibbles.”

 

“I don’t know about you guys but I’m starving!”  Emmett trills.  “What do you recommend?”

 

I don’t listen as he points out stuff on the menu as I am waiting for Brian to come back from, no doubt, being the Stud. I’ll let him get that out of his system for the first week as he’s not been in Babylon for ages but after that it’s my time!

 

“Michael?  Michael, what are you going to order?”  Uncle Vic prods me in the side.

 

“Anything... a burger or something.”  I give the menu a quick glance.

 

“Sliders it is then.”

 

Finally, Brian is coming back.  He stops off at the bar to speak to someone.  I lean back in my seat and smile to myself.

 

“So where’s Gus?”  I ask about who will eventually be my stepson.

 

“Kids Club.”  Mel looks bemused.  “Weren’t you listening?”

 

“Yes of course.  Has he settled in okay?”  I bluster.

 

“Seemed to be.  I still can’t believe of all the people to run into…”

 

“Who?”  I ask and wonder about Mel’s expression.

 

“You weren’t listening, were you?”  Ma berates me.  “Leda…”

 

“Leda?  Who’s Leda?”  I demand.

 

“Me.”  A woman’s voice interrupts and owner of the voice sits down next to me. “I’m Leda.  Mel, I was bringing Gus up to you because he was sleepy.  But I bumped into his dad and he’s taken him to his suite.”

 

“Oh.  Did…”

 

“He said that he’ll put him down with him as he wants to sleep too.”  She smirks.  “Seems he’s had a busy time of it!”

 

The table erupts with laughter.

 

Are you fucking kidding me!

 

 

CHAPTER 3 – RHUBARB, GUS AND BRIAN

 

DAY 5 – MORNING

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

It was the insistence that woke me.  I sit up and glare at the door.  Pulling on pants, I stomp to the door and yank it open.

 

“Good morning Mr Kinney.”  Ethan looks at me.  Now don’t get me wrong, I like being admired but this is just so shady-sleazy.  “I thought I would come and check what breakfasts you and your party would like?”

 

“Is that normal service? You didn’t come to our suites.”  Michael interrupts sharply.

 

Ethan turns around and glares at him.  “I need to start from the top and work my way down to the bottom.  Or I would have to come down twice.  Sir.”

 

“Daddy!  Good morning!  Did you sleeps good?”  Gus bounds in having obviously dressed himself in his hurry to get to Kids Club and I can’t help the laugh that bubbles out.

 

“Gus.  It’s ‘did you sleep well’ and yes I did.  You go and sit in the lounge and I’ll be right there.”

 

I turn back to find Ethan still looking but this time he seems to have been joined by Michael.

 

“I think we’ll eat in the restaurant let me check.  Gus!  Do you want to eat downstairs or in your room?”

 

“Downstairs daddy!”

 

“Right gentlemen, so neither of you need to be here.”  I turn back to my admirers and close the door on them.

 

It doesn’t take 10 seconds for the knocking to start.  I take in a breath and pull on my robe.

 

“Yes Michael?”  He grins at me and starts to come in.  “What are you doing Michael?”

 

“I’m coming in to wait, of course.  I can sit with Gus…”

 

“Hang on.  Gus?  Did you just get out of bed and into your clothes?”

 

Silence.

 

“Gus?”

 

He comes slowly up to me.  “Yes daddy.  But it’s so cool in Kids Club and…”

 

“You still need to have a shower.  Would you like to shower with daddy?”

 

“Really?  I can?!”  He yells and at my nod, he puts Leather Bear down carefully and then runs to the bathroom trying to get undressed at the same time.

 

“Mikey, can you knock next door and tell Mel that I’ve got Gus.  We’ll see you downstairs.”  I give him a quick smile and shut the door.

 

“Okay Sonny Boy, let’s get you clean!”  I yell.

 

MICHAEL

 

I stare at the closed door for a few seconds before starting to head to my suite. I’m almost down the corridor when Mel calls me back.

 

“Morning Michael.  Is Gus with his daddy?”

 

“Yes.  Having a shower.  You really need to get up when he does Mel so that everything is done before he visits Brian.”

 

“Every…?  What the hell are you talking about?”

 

“He didn’t shower before he got dressed.”  I point out scornfully.

 

Mel just looks at me for about a minute then clears her throat.  “Michael, he’s 4 and excited to get to the Kid’s Club.  And the next time you cast aspersions on my ability to bring up our son, I shall pop you in the mouth.”

 

I back up a bit.  I had forgotten how prickly Mel can be about Gus.  “I’ll see you downstairs.”

 

“Yeah.  I look forward to it.”  She sneers, before slamming the door.

 

MEL’S SUITE

 

MEL

 

Fucking asshole!  I sit down as I feel the headache start to pound but after some calming breaths, it recedes.

 

I look in Gus’s room and it looks like a bomb has gone off.  I head to the connecting door and knock.

 

“Come in Momma!”  Gus yells.

 

As I open the door, I’m greeted by one of the sweetest, though I would never tell him, sights ever.  Brian is applying lotion to Gus’s skin carefully and tickling him at the same time.

 

“Daddy!  Stop!  I have to not be sweaty!”  Gus giggles.

 

“Brian go get dressed and I’ll sort out Gus.”  I smile.

 

“Thanks, see you down there.”  He smiles back and I try not to resent that he has a better ass than me!   After seeing Brian naked this many times, you'd think I'd be immune, but even I have to admit he has impressive assets.

 

SEABIRD RESTAURANT

 

DEBS

 

Oh this place is wonderful!  Because we’re part of the winning party, we have a table reserved in every restaurant and bar on the ship.  I take my seat and stare out to sea.

 

“Good morning Debs.”  Ems trills and sits down with Ted, who has lost some of his haunted look.

 

“Morning boys!”  I grin back and wave to our own personal waiter, Tyler.

 

“Miss Debs, what can I get you for y’all?”

 

“Shouldn’t we…ah here comes Michael and I think Vic.  Give us 10 minutes sweetheart.”

 

“Sure.”  He grins around the table and heads off.

 

“Y’all my ass!”  Ems grumbles and I look at him confused.  “He’s as Southern as I am straight!”

 

Finally Brian saunters to the table attracting the attention of almost everyone in the restaurant and sits down.

 

“The Kinney party is all present, correct?”  Tyler comes up.  “Let me take your orders.”

 

Twenty minutes later, the food is served.

 

“So what are you going to do today people?”  I ask and adjust Vic’s hat as I don’t want him to burn.

 

“Going to the Club grandma!”  Gus bounces in his seat.

 

“Have to take a couple of conference calls.”  Mel grimaces.

 

“Honey don’t overdo it.”  As well as Brian, I worry about Mel too.  She went through that shit too and she’s pregnant.

 

She nods and inhales her juice.  “Okay little man, let’s go.”

 

“What no kiss?”  Brian calls out and Gus rushes back and kisses him on the cheek before running out the restaurant.  “Such a good kid.”

 

“Yes he is.”  Michael agrees.  “Considering the other side of…”

 

“Pottery!”  Vic interrupts.  “There’s a pottery class I might have a look at.  Might find someone to recreate that scene from Ghost with.”  He chuckles.

 

“Well I’m going to scope out the shops.”  Ems leans back in his seat.

 

“I think that Brian…”  Michael begins.

 

“Is going to scope out that guy’s attributes.”  Brian looks over his shoulder then lowers his sunglasses.  “Yep definitely.  See ya!”

 

Soon it is just me, Vic and Michael, who is staring at where Brian went.

 

“Well I’m going to take a stroll round the poop deck.”  I tell them and as I leave I slap Michael upside the head.

 

VIC

 

“Ouch Ma!  What the fuck was that for?!”  Michael calls out to her retreating back.

 

“You aren’t serious with that question?”  I ask him.

 

“What?”  He stares at me rubbing his head.  “I didn’t do anything.”

 

“You never do anything, do you Michael?”  I regard him carefully.  “Tell me how do you think Brian would’ve felt about hearing you bringing Lindsay up again?”

 

He doesn’t say anything.

 

“I know you Michael.  And like Debs said to you before, cut that shit out!”

 

I gather my things and leave him at the table.

 

KIDS CLUB

 

JUSTIN

 

I absolutely love this day!  Today is intro day.  As I head down to the room, I pull one cart while Leda has the other.

 

As we pass the line of kids, they go quiet.  I open the door grinning as we wheel them to the front of the room.

 

“Okay everyone come in, nice and quiet please.”  I order and they all file in.  “Now I want you to all sit down because I want to introduce you to a couple of very important people in my life.”

 

I nod at Leda and we turn the crates around so that the mesh is in front and the first ‘ooh’ goes round the room.  Then shuffling forward starts.

 

“Everyone, I want you to meet Rhubarb.”  I open his cage and he strides out and sits down in front of it.  “And Custard.”  I open his cage and he does the same.

 

Predictably, I hear the groans from the parents and I can’t help but giggle.

 

“So can anyone tell me what they are?”  I ask.

 

“Cats.”  Comes a voice.

 

“Yes but what kind of cats?”  Leda asks laughing.

 

“Big fluffy ones!”  Another kid says.

 

“Um Mr Justin…”  A little voice calls out.

 

“Yes Gus?”

 

“Are they Maine…um Maine something?”

 

“Yes Gus, well done. They are Maine Coons.”

 

The smile that I get melts my heart!

 

“Rhubarb and Custard are always with me so they will be in the Club and you might see them around the ship.  What I want to do today is to teach you how to behave around them…”

 

GUS

 

Club today was super dooper, I loved it.  I got to meet Rhubarb and Custard and Momma seems to really like Leda.  Momma said I can do soft play until my nap so we’re on the deck…wait where’s Leather Bear?!  Oh I remember, he’s in daddy’s room, so I head back to our suite.  I’m pretty smart and I know the way.  I think.

 

“Gus?”  I turn round and look at the man and I know I saw him this morning.

 

“Do you remember me?  I’m Ethan.”

 

“Yes!  Can you take me to my room I need to get Leather Bear, Momma is in there.”

 

“Sure.  Take my hand because it can be slippery.”

 

I take his hand but I don’t like the way it feels.  Daddy’s and Auntie Emmy’s feel better.

 

“So Gus, can you tell me about your daddy?”

 

I frown and think for a minute.  “He’s my daddy and he loves me very much but not as much as I love him.”

 

“That’s very sweet.”  He smiles down at me; I don’t like his smile either.  “Here we are.”

 

“Momma?”  I call out and she waves at me but she’s on the phone and I know the rules.

 

“See Momma’s here.  You can go now.”

 

He makes a horrible snorty noise.  “Okay Gus, I’ll see you around.”

 

I run to the bathroom to wash my hands and wait for Momma.

 

“Hold on.”  She puts her phone down and hugs me.  “I’m sorry baby, this is taking longer than I thought. Can you wait in daddy’s suite for me and I won’t be more than 60 all the way around ticks? I promise.”

 

I run to daddy’s suite and there’s Leather Bear and I’m about to sit down like a big boy when I see Rhubarb has followed me!  Momma is still on the phone so I close the door.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – AN HOUR LATER

 

BRIAN

 

So the bitch of a start to the day continues!

 

I am fucked and not in a good way!  After breakfast instead of exploring some guy’s ass, Ted and I spent the last four hours on a video conference with Ioniser Water, but we’ve nailed them and the contract is signed.  Now that Compacticsm and Ioniser, who we were worrying about, are done, I am definitely on holiday.  Ted is wrapping it up with Cynthia and I’ve told Emmy to get his phone off him and put it in the safe…in Vic’s room.

 

I can’t believe how close Ted and I have become considering where we started. He and Cyn have been with me every step of the way.

 

I pause at Mel’s door and tap, she opens quickly and grimaces her phone glued to her ear.

 

“Gus in Club?”  I whisper.

 

She shakes her head and points to my suite.  ‘Napping I think’ she mouths.

 

I nod and think that’s an excellent idea.

 

I open the door and it’s quiet but I can see a lump on the sofa…actually make that two lumps!

 

LILAH’S BAR

 

FRANC

 

“Hey Franc.”

 

“Justin sweetheart hey!”  I look at him and he looks worried.  “Which one?”

 

“Rhubie.”

 

I shake my head and giggle then press the intercom.  “Ladies and gentlemen, ladies and gentlemen.  Your attention please.  We have a lost animal.  His name is Rhubarb. He’s a red and ginger Maine Coon and about the size of a small poodle.  He’s very friendly but apt to wander where he shouldn’t.  If you find him, please return him to the Kids Club on the lower deck. That’s the Kids Club on the lower deck, please and thank you.”

 

“Thanks Franc.”  Justin grins and head back to his office.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

MEL

 

“I think we may have found Rhubarb.”

 

“Yeah.  I’ll take it back.  You go have a nap, you look exhausted.”  He nudges me to his bed and scoops a still sleeping Gus to lie next to me.

 

I’m asleep in seconds.

 

BRIAN

 

Rhubarb is just blinking at me.  I really hope they mean it when they say he’s friendly.

 

“Okay I’m going to pick you up, please don’t scratch my face.”  I approach him carefully and he just sits there and lets me pick him up.  “Well that was easy, also don’t pee on me.”

 

I head towards the lower deck following the signs, feeling like I have a vibrator in my arms as Rhubarb is purring so much and doing the kneading thing.

 

I knock on the Kids Club door and wait.

 

“Oh you’re going to have to buy me dinner first before we get to licking!”  I tell Rhubarb as he takes a second swipe at my ear.

 

“You found him.  Justin!  Rhubie’s here!”  Leda grins at me.  “Go straight into that office, Justin will do the rest.  See you at dinner tomorrow.”

 

I head to the office and find myself looking at someone cursing in a crate, well not just someone, but someone with a terrific ass.

 

“For crying out loud, Custard just stop it. He’ll be back, you know that!”

 

“Rhubarb and Custard, are you kidding me?”  I laugh.

 

There is a crack as his head connects with the crate; I wince on his behalf.

 

“Ouch fuck!”  He wiggles out of the crate, rubbing said head before turning around to face me.

 

“No.  I love animation and wait sorry...  I’m Justin.”

 

He puts out his hand and then pulls it back as mine are full of cat. Besides I couldn’t shake it even if I wanted to because I would be wrestling my cock down!  He’s the most beautiful man I have ever seen!

 

JUSTIN

 

Rhubie you are getting caviar and salmon when I get you back to my quarters.  He is the most gorgeous man I have ever met!

 

“Brian.”

 

We just look at each other until he breaks the silence.  “Yeah. So here’s Rhubarb.”  He goes to hand him back but Rhubarb won’t let go.  Every time I loosen one paw, the other one takes hold and he yowls in protest.

 

“Custard!  A little help!”  I calls over my shoulder.

 

Custard lets out a growl and Rhubarb drops to the floor, then gets in his crate.

 

“Big brother.”  I explain.  “Oh do you want a roller…for the hair?”  I explain when he frowns.

 

“Uh no.  No that’s fine I was going to change anyway.  Well nice to meet you.”

 

“And you.”

 

As the door closes, I want to pour the entire contents of an ice bucket down my pants!

 

BRIAN

 

I get to my suite in record time. Thankfully, Mel and Gus are back in their room. After, taking a very cold shower, I decide to sit on the balcony.  I look up to the sky and think Justin’s eyes are bluer, just as I start to wonder why I think that, the knocking starts.

 

I open it to a pissed off Mikey.  “Come in.  What’s wrong?”

 

“I’ve been by myself most of the day, that’s what’s wrong.”  He gripes.  “But Ted tells me that you’ve now finished with ‘work.’ Is that true?”

 

I don’t like the air quote he just did, considering how much I have helped him with his store.  “What’s with the quotes?”

 

“Quotes?”  He looks back at me.

 

“Yeah like you didn’t believe I was working.  Trust me, if I was going to fuck in front of anyone, it would not be Ted.”

 

I watch the wheels turn as he realises he’s pissed me off.

 

“I didn’t mean it like that.  It’s just that we’ve hardly spent any time together.  And we’re supposed to be on this cruise of a lifetime together.”

 

“And we are from this point on.  This family is going to have an excellent time!”

 

He grins at me but this time I don’t want to kiss him in celebration as I usually would have. Instead, I just raise my glass.

 

 

CHAPTER 4 – CAPTAIN OH MY CAPTAIN!

 

DAY 6 – LATE AFTERNOON

 

MICHAEL

 

I’m so tired!  We’ve been up and down this fucking slide for the last hour.  Ma has been sitting by the side of the pool like the queen of fucking Sheba, of course.

 

“Michael, can you look after Gus for a second?”  Mel asks and I frown.  “I need the bathroom.”

 

“Yeah, yeah.”  I sigh and then grab Gus.

 

“Gus.  We’re going to sit down for a minute.”

 

“But Unca Mikey, I wanna go on the slide again.”

 

“Gus, remember what we talked about?”  I remind him quietly.

 

“But I can’t call you papa when you’re not my papa.”  He looks at me with Brian’s eyes.

 

I grind my teeth a bit.  “But I’m your daddy’s best friend.”

 

“But not my papa!”  He tells me then goes and sits with Ma.

 

“No, not yet.”  I mutter.

 

Ten minutes later, I’m being shaken awake.  “Michael, where’s Gus?”  Mel asks.

 

“With Ma.”  I mumble and close my eyes again.

 

“No he’s not!  Debs!  Where’s Gus?!”  Mel shouts across to her and I open my eyes to see Ma coming back to her lounger.

 

“He’s with Michael.”  She replies, coming back to sit down.  “I watched him go to him before I went for a…oh fuck!”

 

And of course Uncle Vic and Emmett also take that moment to come back!

 

“What’s going on?”  Uncle Vic asks.

 

“Gus is missing!”  Mel screams, looking around frantically.

 

“Sweetie.  Look there’s Franc, let me go get her!”  Emmett tells her and sprints around the pool.

 

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Emmett run like that.”  I chuckle earning a glower from Ma.

 

“Hey guys!”  Leda comes up to us holding Gus!

 

“Oh Gus, where have you been?!”  Mel snivels.

 

“Momma you ‘kay?”  Gus squirms down and hugs Mel round her knees.  “I told Unca Mikey that I was going to see her.  I did told him.”

 

“Come on sweetie.  Let’s get you and Momma back to your suite.”  Leda puts her arm around her shoulders and takes Gus’s hand and they walk away.

 

“You found him! Oh thank God!”  Emmett cries as he joins us again this time, I assume, with Franc.

 

“We can stand down the alert?”  She asks and Ma nods. “Okay.  Fine.  So who took the band off?”

 

“Band?”  Uncle Vic asks.

 

“Yes.  Every kid when they…”  She trails off and then her face contorts with anger.  “I’m going to kill him!”  She snarls and stalks off.

 

“Honey wait!”  Ma calls following her quickly.  “We need you to work here!  Let me do the killing!”

 

I turn back to face Uncle Vic and Emmett and they are giving me filthy looks.

 

“I’m going to see how Mel is.  Being that stressed so quickly can’t be good.”  Emmett snipes and walks off, Uncle Vic follows him without a word.

 

STEWARD’S OFFICE

 

ETHAN

 

I love this boat…sorry ship.  I’m still trying to work a way to get a one-on-one moment with the gorgeous Mr Kinney.  He’s been seen round the bars and rumour has it he’s blessed!

 

The door flies open and an incandescent Franc is glaring at me.

 

“Where is Gus Kinney?!”  She yells at me.

 

“How would I know?  With his dad or momma I guess.”  I shrug.

 

“Let me see the dot.”  She orders.

 

“Dot?  What’s the dot?”  A breathless redhead asks, sinking into a chair.

 

“One minute Debs.”  She tells her before turning back to me.  “The dot Ethan!”

 

“Fine.”  I grumble and pull up the screen and my gut hits the floor.

 

“So according to this, you have a four year old in your desk drawer?”  She snarls.  “Give it to me you moron!”

 

“Hello?”  We all turn to the voice at the door.  “My name is Carl Horvath, I’m a Detective.”  He flashes his badge.  “I heard that a kid was missing can I help?”

 

“Hey Carl.  Thanks for the offer but he’s been found. He was a few loungers down but someone…”  She glares at me.  “Didn’t follow procedure when he was boarded but it’s all sorted out now.”

 

“Good I’m glad.  Well, I’ll leave you to it then.”

 

“Thanks Carl.”  She smiles at him as he walks away.

 

I hand over the band and go to speak.

 

“Not one word.  You will be written up!  It’s the first rule for fuck sake!  Think kids not cock!”

 

She goes to help the redhead up and slams the door hard behind her.

 

Fuck!

 

MEL’S SUITE

 

MEL

 

The hammering on the door signifies that Brian has heard.

 

“Gus go open the door for daddy.”

 

He looks so worried but does as he’s told.

 

“Hey Sonny Boy.  You okay?”

 

“Yes daddy.  I did told Unca Mikey, I did.”

 

“It’s okay Gus, you’re not in trouble; it’s fine.  Mel, you okay?”

 

“Yeah just a little scared for a bit.”  I smile at him and sigh happily as Leda and Emmett apply cooling clothes to my forehead and back of my neck.

 

“You going to be okay for dinner tonight?”

 

“It’s dinner with the captain, isn’t it daddy?”  Gus smiles.

 

“Yes it is.”

 

“Honestly, I don’t think I’m up for it.  I just want to sleep.  I’m so tired.” I tell him.

 

“Daddy, I don’t want to go without momma.”  Gus tells him, his eyes filling with tears.

 

“Gus, it’s only the first dinner with the captain. There will be more.  I’ll be there for the next one.”

 

“And I can stay with her to keep an eye until you guys come back.”  Leda offers much to my surprise.

 

“Well?”  Emmett looks at me.  “What’s it going to be?”  He smirks knowingly.

 

“Shut up and go enjoy dinner!”  I grouse.

 

“Are you two absolutely sure?”  Brian asks.

 

“Yes.  He wants to wear his big-boy A-suit tonight though.”

 

“Okay, come on Sonny Boy. It’s shower time.”

 

“Yay!  Momma, I’m going to leave Leather Bear with you and he can look after you too, okay?”

 

“Okay.”

 

The door knocking gets our attention and Leda goes to answer.

 

“Hey Franc, what you doing here?”

 

“I’m so sorry, again, Mel and Brian but Ethan didn’t give you the band for Gus.”

 

“Pardon?  What band?”  Brian growls and I’m happy to let him get mad.

 

“This band is supposed to be put on every child when they board. So, Gus can I have your wrist please?”

 

Gus looks at Brian for reassurance and he nods.  “Will it hurt?”

 

“No sweetheart, it won’t.  Do you want Leda to put it on instead?”  Gus nods.  “Okay. See Gus, it looks like a watch but it’s not.  It gives you instant access to this suite and I shall programme it for daddy’s suite and the Kids Club.  What you need to do is hold your wrist to this panel on the door and the door will unlock.  Is there any other room that he should be given access to?”

 

“Definitely mine!”  Debs orders.  “Actually, everyone in this party.”

 

“Now I want you to look carefully at the face Gus.  This is a really clever band in that if you tap this red button when you don’t know where you are, all you have to do is stay where you are and someone will come to get you.  Do you understand?”

 

Gus nods and then hugs her.  “Thank you very much.”

 

“Can someone…”  I begin.

 

“No, it’s toughened steel and the clip only undoes with a code known only to the parents.  Here’s the instructions for that.”

 

“Wow.”  Emmett breathes.

 

“Once again, I’m so sorry.”

 

“Thanks so much.”  Debs grins and hugs her.

 

“Not your fault, but can we remove Ethan from here?”  Brian asks.  “I don’t want him around Gus.”

 

“Absolutely.  It will be my pleasure.”  She grins and after saluting, is gone.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – AN HOUR LATER

 

BRIAN

 

“Gus let’s go say goodnight to momma.”

 

“Okay daddy.”

 

We had the door between the suites open and when we get inside Mel reaches for her phone.

 

“I need a picture!”  She grins and after 10 minutes, we have to go.

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I open the door to Uncle Vic and he looks at me in surprise.

 

“Come on get dressed. We don’t want to be late.” He tells me.

 

“I am dressed.”

 

“Oh no.  No you aren’t.”  He sighs and grabs his phone.  “Ems, you’re needed.”

 

SEABIRD DINING ROOM & BAR – 20 MINUTES LATER

 

FRANC

 

I had to run around the deck a few times to get rid of my annoyance before I spoke to the Captain and he agreed that Ethan should be removed.  Ray was not happy but when I pointed out we could be in line for a lawsuit, he was suddenly thinking with his brain and not whatever romantic notion he has for him and Ian, I mean Ethan!  So Tyler is now looking after them completely.

 

The dining room is done beautifully, although it could be better. But once again, we are constrained by Ray and his love of VanGuard.  But the family is coming and they are all dressed in their finest.  Although, I’m not sure what his bestie has come as.

 

I wait for them all join me at the bar.  Gus looks adorable in his suit.  Once Gus is put on the bar stool, I’m about to go and get the rest of the crew when bestie calls me back.

 

“Aren’t you going to take our drink orders?”

 

“No.  That’s what the other barman’s for.”  I head to the office and tap.  “We’re up boys.”

 

“I hate these things.”  Ben grumbles.

 

“Then perhaps you shouldn’t be a captain of a ship?”  Justin teases him.

 

“Ah that’s where I’ve been going wrong.”  He shakes his head.  “Okay so tell me about them.”

 

BEN

 

Franc clears her throat and grins.  “There’s the cuteness that is Gus. He’s 4 and on the bar stool and most likely anchored to his dad, Brian, the prize winner.  Look to the redhead, that’s Debs and then the rest will be intro’d, then we go eat.”

 

“Brian?!”  Justin squeaks.  “Can I see?”

 

I open the door and Justin drops his head.  “It had to be him.”

 

“Him-him?”  Franc gasps.  “Be right back!”

 

FRANC

 

I make my way back to the table and look at the placings and smile.

 

“And what do you think you are doing?”  Emmett’s voice startles me.

 

“Uh... just checking the table?”

 

“Uh-huh.”   He smirks, sipping his Cosmo.  “Honey, I know a matchmaking run when I see it. So who we moving?”

 

With a giggle, we move Michael to the end of the table and Justin next to Gus.

 

I head back to the room and he heads back to the family.

 

“Okay, we’re ready.”  I smile then have to run after Justin when he makes a break for it.

 

BEN

 

I walk to the bar trying not to smile. She’s more than capable of carrying him back, and she’s right about Gus. He’s cute!  The rest of the family seem nice but Michael seems a little clingy and during some parts of the conversation, bewildered.

 

We’re chatting in general and Brian mentions that he’s not seen any advertising for us.

 

I kiss my teeth and shake my head.  “That’s Ray’s idea. For a gay guy, he’s not really pushing this cruise and VanGuard doesn’t really help.  I have to admit that I’m not a fan, but we’re stuck with Gardner Vance for a few more years, unless we can get someone new.”

 

“Are you kidding with me?”  Brian asks, looking over his glass at me.

 

“Uh no.  Ray, my cousin, handles all the administration of Seabird Enterprise Inc and that includes advertising.  Between you and me, the only reason we had the prize draw was because Ray’s dad put his foot down and said VanGuard had to do something after some disappointing years. The revenue has not been what he has hoped.”

 

“Why not give me a call?  I’ll see what we can do.”  Brian hands me a card and Michael splutters his drink, then heads to the bathroom to clean up.

 

“Kin-Kinnetic?   Are you kidding me?!”  I look at him in awe.  “That’s you?”

 

“Well us.  Ted’s the CFO.”

 

“Wow.  I’ll get Franc to give it to their dad.  Going direct works better than going through Ray.  Let’s go to the table shall we?”

 

When we get to the table Franc has got Justin firmly in hand, although he’s trying to back away.

 

“Mr Justin!”  Gus cries excitedly.  “Hello. I didn’t know you were going to be here.  Daddy, this is Mr Justin. He’s so cool and he owns Rhubarb and Custard.”

 

BRIAN

 

Oh Christ!  I thought him in his uniform was good but him in his civvies is actually making my mouth water.

 

“Yes I know Gus. I gave Rhubarb back to him, remember?”

 

“Oh yes.  Sit Mr Justin, sit next to me!”  He tugs on his hand.

 

There’s a look between Franc and Emmy and I wonder what that is about.

 

Ben stands at the head of the table.  “Brian, you are to my right and Debs you’re to my left.  Please everyone sit.”

 

MICHAEL

 

When I get back to the bar, everyone has gone. The barman tells me they’ve gone to the table. They could’ve waited!

 

I head to the table then stop and stare. I know Blake and Franc but who the fuck is that sitting in my seat?!

 

“Ah Michael, you’re back.  Everything cleaned up?”  Uncle Vic asks, sipping on his drink.

 

“Yes thanks.  So who’s the new person?”  I ask, resentfully taking the seat at the end of the table.

 

“This is Justin.”  Ben tells me.

 

“And what is it that you do Justin?”  I sneer.

 

“I run the Kids’ Club.”  He replies, smiling at me. I don’t smile back.

 

“And he has Rhubarb and Custard, the coolest cats ever.”  Gus tells me then turns to Brian.  “You liked Rhubarb, didn’t you daddy?  Oh! And are you still coming for reading tomorrow daddy?”

 

Reading?

 

“Yes Gus.  Whose idea was the reading day?”  Brian looks at Ben.

 

“That would be Justin.”  He replies.  “Although the kids are on holiday, he’s very passionate about education.”

 

“When’s the drawing day Justin?”  Franc asks, earning a withering look from me.

 

“Friday.”

 

“Daddy, you’re good at drawing but Mr Justin is better.  He drawed all of those pictures.”

 

We look round the room and Brian’s jaw drops.

 

“You did these?”  Ted asks.

 

“Christ, you are really good!”  Ma tells him, beaming.

 

“Thanks.”  He replies and I roll my eyes at his fake modesty.  “But Gus it’s ‘drew’.”

 

“Who’s Drew?”  Gus asks looking around.

 

“No that’s not what I mean.”  Justin smiles.  “When you said I drawed all of those pictures, you should’ve said I drew all of those pictures.”

 

“Why?”  Gus looks at him.

 

“Uh…”

 

“Oh come on, my nephew’s on holiday; give him a break.”  I object.  “This is a time for fun.”

 

“Sorry.”  Justin mumbles, going red and I hide my smirk in my drink.

 

“But I want to know why, daddy?”  Gus looks at Brian.

 

“Because he’s already done the pictures so he drew them and on Friday you are going to draw pictures…”

 

“So what’s drawed then?”

 

“Drawed isn’t a word Sonny Boy.”

 

“Oh okay then.  Mr Justin drew the pictures.  Aren’t they great?”

 

“Thank you Gus.”  Justin smiles at him.

 

“That’s it, you’re Sunshine, as you just lit the whole room up with that smile!”  Ma declares.

 

“Um thanks.”  He mumbles, going redder and I huff an annoyed breath.

 

“So is it normal for a bar person and a steward to be at the Captain’s table?”  I ask and ignore the glare from Uncle Vic.

 

“I’m not sure I follow what you mean Michael.”  Ben says as the table goes quiet.  “Blake is the ship’s doctor and Franc is the First Mate so they are third and second in command, respectively.”

 

“Oh I didn’t know that.”  I feel heat creeping up my face.

 

“Amazing what you learn when you listen.”  Emmett says, smiling not so sweetly.

 

“Okay, shall we order?”  Ben looks around the table and they all nod.

 

EMMETT

 

He is so lucky he’s down that end of the table!  I daren’t look at Vic but I can feel how annoyed he is.  And of course he just had to spurt beer all over my fucking shirt!  I look across at Franc and she’s pissed off too.

 

“Daddy, can I have a burger and fries?”  Gus asks.

 

I love that kid so much. What Lindsay did was abhorrent, and if she was in slapping distance, her head would be back to front!

 

“Um I’m not sure your momma…”

 

“Uh, why not have two of the sliders instead?  They’re smaller.  The burgers on this menu are pretty big.”  Justin tells him.

 

“Okay Mr Justin.  What about the fries? Are they big too?”

 

“Yeah, but tell you what... you can share mine.”  Justin says then goes red.  “I mean if that’s okay with your daddy.”

 

“It’s fine.  At least he’s going to eat fries.”  Brian smiles and that smile hits his eyes…ooh Franc and I need to talk for sure!  “So Sonny Boy, are you going to have an appetiser?”

 

“Yes daddy.  Can I have the dumplings?”

 

“I’m not sure.  It seems they are going to be spicy so maybe not.  Ben, or do I call you Captain Ben?”

 

“Ben’s fine, thanks!  But yeah they are going to be spicy.  He can have the lettuce wraps and we’ll take out the chilli.”  Ben suggests.  “Is he okay with peanuts?”

 

“Yes he’s fine with nuts.”

 

“He’s your son.  So of course he is.”  Ted intones and he and Blake giggle like school girls.

 

“Ted, that was inappropriate.”  Michael chastises him.

 

“What did Unca Ted say that was bad?”  Gus asks.  “I am your son and I can eat nuts.  I like eating nuts.  You like eating nuts too, don’t you daddy?”

 

Ben is clapping Brian on the back as he inhaled all of his drink up his nose.  He’s coughing up a storm and his eyes are streaming.

 

Oh out of the mouths of babes!

 

BRIAN

 

I finally have stopped coughing.  Debs, Uncle Vic and Emmy are looking mischievously at me and I want to smack them.  The first course arrives and Gus is wiggling in his seat with excitement, but he’s wearing Armani!

 

“You do sleeves; I do neck?”  Justin asks me and for a second or two I’m confused before realising what he means.

 

Between us, we get the napkin around Gus’s neck and blanketed across his chest and his sleeves rolled up.  He insisted that his jacket was hung where he could see it as it is his big-boy suit.

 

When the main course arrives, I just stare at Justin’s plate.  He’s ordered the triple burger and fries.

 

“Sickening.”  Franc grumbles.  “Has two of them a day and nothing sticks to him.”

 

“Gus, do you want to take some fries?” Justin asks him.

 

“I’ll do that for you Sonny Boy.”  I reach across and take a handful and then take a couple off his plate.  “Quality control.”  I reply in the face of Gus’s expression.

 

“Yeah.”  Justin snickers.  “Let’s go with that.”

 

Two hours later, I have one pooped little boy.

 

“Guys, I need to get Gus to bed. It is way past his bedtime.”

 

“The reading class is in the afternoon so he can sleep in.”  Justin tells me as he gets his jacket.

 

“Thanks.”  My yawn catches me off guard and I blush.  “I’m pretty tired myself.”

 

I look around the dining room and we’re pretty much the only people here.  I smile my thanks as Justin covers a sleepy Gus with his jacket.

 

“Kiddo, we’ll see you later!”  Debs calls out.

 

“Brian, I’ll come with you.”  Michael calls out.

 

“Daddy.  Can I sleep with you tonight?”  Gus mumbles.

 

“Sure you can, Sonny Boy.  Sure you can.  Good night all!”

 

BEN

 

“Well that’s our cue too.  This has been an excellent evening, I mean that.  Come on, you three. We have a ship to steer in a few hours.”

 

For once, I genuinely enjoyed the Captain’s Dinner and watch them stumble tiredly towards the lifts and pray that he looks back and he does!

 

MICHAEL

 

I have to run to catch up with Brian, just making it before the lift closes.

 

“That was an interesting dinner.”  I tell him.

 

“I enjoyed it.  Gus had a good time.”  He adjusts him in his arms, then the lift stops.  “Goodnight Mikey.”

 

“Goodnight?”  I look at him.

 

“Yeah, this is your floor.  Gus wants to sleep with me tonight.  See you tomorrow.”

 

As the door shuts, all I can think is fuck!

 

 

CHAPTER 5 – READING, HUNTING AND FISHING

 

DAY 7 – EARLY AFTERNOON

 

GUS

 

I had such a good long sleep.  Daddy is funny in the morning.  He let me help him shave!  But now we’re going to Club so that daddy can help me with my reading and words.  I’ve also loved this morning because momma is so much better, I knew Leather Bear would help her, and we had a really good but late breakfast!  We had poached eggs and sausages but it was the jam I loved. Well, I would’ve loved it more if daddy didn’t keep taking it off my plate!

 

“Okay people, have we had a lovely brunch?”  Tyler asks. I like Tyler.

 

“Yes Tyler.  But what’s brunch?”  I ask.

 

“Brunch is what you have between breakfast and lunch.”  He smiles and I nod in understanding.

 

“Can I have some more jam please?  My daddy ate most of mine.”   This makes momma laugh.

 

“You can Gus but its much better warm.  How about you have it at lunchtime?”

 

“Okay but can you make sure that we both have some so daddy can have his own?”

 

“Sonny Boy!”  Daddy gasps before putting the rest he took in his mouth and winking at me.

 

“Of course, I will make sure of that.”  Tyler laughs.  “Just place the order with either Justin or Leda when you get to the Club and it will be brought to you.”

 

“Great!   Come on daddy, we need to get to Club now.”

 

“Brian now that Mel’s better, can’t she take him?”  Unca Mikey asks.

 

“Yes she could.  But I promised Gus and I never break my promises.  Especially to my Sonny Boy.”  Daddy tells him and after making sure I’m super-duper clean, he takes my hand and we leave the restaurant.

 

“Brian!  Wait!”  Unca Mikey catches up with us.  “I can come with you both.”  He tries to take my hand but I’m holding Leather Bear and he won’t carry him right.  Leather Bear doesn’t like being held by his leg and upside down, but he keeps doing that.

 

“Michael…”

 

“Good afternoon Brian, Gus. Are you on your way to club?”

 

“Hey Ben.  Yeah we’re on our way and we don’t want to be late.”

 

“Of course, but before you go.  I wondered if Gus would like to see how the ship is steered.”

 

I stop tugging on daddy’s hand.  “Steered?”  I look up at Captain Ben… there’s a long way to look so I step back a bit.

 

“Gus, would you like me to pick you up?”

 

“Yes please daddy.”

 

Once I’m level with Captain Ben I look at him.  “You mean I can see how you drive the ship?”

 

“Yes that’s what I mean.  We can do that after class if you like.”

 

“Please daddy!  Please!”

 

“You can’t resist a face like that.”  Captain Ben smiles. I like his smile. He smiled at Aunty Emmy like that at dinner.

 

“No I can’t.  How do I organise that?”

 

“Just let Justin know and he’ll bring you up.  See you later.”  Then Captain Ben looks at me and nods.  “Yeah I think we can find one.  Definitely.”

 

I look at daddy and he’s smiling so whatever Captain Ben is talking about can’t be bad.

 

“Daddy, we need to get to Club!”

 

“Okay Sonny Boy.  Michael are you…”

 

“Michael, there you are!”  Auntie Emmy calls out.  “Come-come with me!  Let them have their bonding moment!  I don’t think two hours of reading things that aren’t comics is your thing.  You know with the words being so big and all.  Besides, you need to replace my shirt and aren’t you allergic to cats?”

 

I’m not sure what daddy and Auntie Emmy are laughing at or why Unca Michael has gone that colour.

 

“Cats?”  Unca Mikey says.

 

“Yes Rhubarb and Custard; they’re in the class.”  Auntie Emmy tells him. “So come with me and we’ll see the gorgeous Kinney men later.  Much later.”

 

BRIAN

 

As I watch Ben walk wherever he’s going he turns to look back and winks. When Emmy waves, I have an idea!

 

KIDS’ CLUB

 

JUSTIN

 

You’ve got this!  As long as you don’t look at him, you’ve got this!  As everyone files in, Leda doesn’t help things by jabbing me in my side.  I glare at her.

 

“What?!”  I hiss.

 

“You need to let the boys out.”  She snickers.  “But I can do it if you’re unable to come out from behind the desk.”

 

I was fine until she said that!

 

“If you could that would be great!”  I smile and think of festering garbage!

 

As everyone settles down on the floor, I caught the grimace from Brian and chuckle to myself.  This helps to get myself under control so we start to hand out the books for them to read and put the notepads for their words on the table.  I walk around checking that everyone is fine. We do get some kids that are grumpy about having to go to school during their holidays but I see this as a bonding moment with them and their kids.

 

I stop to listen to Gus read.  “……it is a beautiful flower, said the woman, and she kissed the red and golden-coloured leaves, and while she did so the flower opened, and she could see that it was a real tulip. Within the flower, upon the green velvet stamens.  Daddy, what’s a stamen?”

 

“You see the thread inside the flower?”  Gus nods.  “That’s a stamen.”

 

“Oh okay.  Hello Mr Justin. Shall I keep reading?”

 

I look at my watch and nod and go to check on the rest of the class and try not to look back at them but fail.  I turn back quickly when I lock gazes with Brian.  I walk with as much speed and dignity as I can in the face of Leda’s smirk back to my desk and sit down.

 

“10 minutes of reading time left then Miss Leda will do your words with you.”

 

Rhubarb has taken up residence on one side of Brian and after a bit of standoffishness from Custard, he has settled on the other, resting his head on his leg.  I had to hide my smile as every time he moved trying to get Custard off him, Custard simply waited for him to go still and settled back down.  In the end, Brian gives up moving and at one point started to stroke Custard’s ears.

 

“Okay time for lunch and then we will do our words.  Let me explain how it works.”  Leda calls out.  “First, take your seats at the table and parents sit behind them.  What happens is that I say the word, your mommy or daddy writes it down for you and then you write it down next to it.  Do you guys understand?”

 

I like that Leda does it this way because it brings in the parents but the bad side is that it tends to make some parents competitive.  But we’re more than capable of nipping that in the bud.

 

“Okay lunch is here. Let’s eat!”  Leda orders and I get Rhubarb and Custard in the office so they can eat.  As soon as they are finished, they sit under Gus and Brian’s chairs.

 

OFFICE

 

“You’ve always said that Rhubarb and Custard, especially Custard are excellent judges of character.”  Leda tries to keep a straight face while looking into my narrowed eyes.  “What?  They had Ethan nailed, right? Remember when they kept pissing in his shoes and after what he did, actually didn’t do for Gus…”

 

“Wait.  What didn’t he do?”  I ask and look into the room at the kids, who I love like they are my own.

 

“He didn’t band him.”  She whispers.

 

“Seriously.”  I gasp in horror.  “That’s the first rule!”

 

“Yeah, he got written up for it.”

 

“Good.  What an asshole.”  I allow my anger to subside.  “Okay Miss Leda, you’re up.”

 

An hour later, some proud kids and relieved parents are making their way out of class.

 

BRIAN

 

Gus is so proud of himself. He only got one word wrong.  I grab his jacket and wait for the class to empty.

 

“Uh Justin.  Ben said we could go on deck so Gus can see how the ship is steered.  He said you could take us.  Could you do that?”

 

“Of course!  Give me a couple of minutes to lock up.  One sec...!”

 

He dashes out of the room and shouts down the corridor.  “Martha, you need to swipe out sweetheart!”

 

“Sorry Mr Justin!”  I hear a thunder of feet and a little girl comes back to swipe out.

 

“Thanks Justin!”  Her mom smiles at him before leading Martha out no doubt telling her off.

 

“You guys take security of kids seriously... well some of you.”  I tell him.  “I like that.”

 

He nods and then frowns.  “Yeah Ethan tends to get distracted by beautiful things…”  I just look at him as he realises what he’s said.  “Ahem.  Okay, Gus swipe and we can go up to the deck.”

 

As we walk up the corridor, nobody says anything for a while.  “Daddy?”

 

“Yes Gus.”

 

“Mr Justin thinks you’re beautiful.  So you have to say something nice about him too.”

 

“Uh…”

 

“I’ll help.  Mr Justin has pretty eyes. They are really blue, aren’t they daddy?”

 

“Yes.  Yeah they are.”  I reply, feeling my cheeks heat.

 

“But you can’t say that because I said it.  So you pick something else.”  Gus demands, taking hold of Justin’s hand and skipping between us.  “Come on daddy.”

 

“Uh Mr Justin has a pretty mouth.”  Is out of my mouth before I could stop it.

 

“We’re here!”  Justin sounds as embarrassed as I feel.

 

“Ah hi guys!”  Ben grins.  “Glad you made it.  Gus, I have something for you.”

 

He pulls out a Captain’s hat and my Sonny Boy’s face lights up.  “Thank you, oh thank you!  Daddy look!”  He squeals putting it on.

 

“I need a picture of this!  Your momma will love it.”  I go to grab my phone but it’s not there and I realise where it is.  “Oh f-flip, I’ve left my phone in my room…”

 

“I can stay with Gus until you get back if you want?”  Justin looks shyly at me.

 

“Thanks.  Will be as quick as I can.”

 

I’m only running because I don’t want Gus to be alone too long.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

When I get back to my suite Michael is sitting outside.  And for the second time in as many days, my heart sinks.

 

“Brian finally!  Where have you been?”

 

“I’ve been with Gus, Michael.  You knew that.  And I have to get back there.”  I reply opening the door and hoping he doesn’t follow, but he does.  “So what have…”

 

“Get back where?”  He demands petulantly.

 

“The deck.  He’s with the Captain.  Remember the conversation earlier.  So what have you been up to?”

 

“Emmett actually made me replace his shirt because apparently the beer didn’t come out of silk and it took ages.”

 

“Well that’s understandable…”

 

ACHOOO!  ACHOOO!  ACHOOO!

 

“Michael, are you okay?”

 

“Yeah, fine. Don’t know where that came from.”  He sniffs.  “So after Gus is back with Mel, can we spend some best friend time to...ACHOOO!”

 

I step away from him and hold up a hand as he approaches.  “No stay there.  If you are coming down with a cold, you need to stay away from me and especially…”

 

I just stare at him and a rash starts to spread over his hands and face.

 

“Michael, what the fuck is wrong with you?!”

 

“Wrong with me?  What do you mean?”  He demands, scratching his back.

 

“Look in the mirror!”  I order.

 

When he sees what I see he looks as horrified as I do.  “What the hell is happening?!”  He shrieks and that brings Mel and Emmy in.

 

“Christ Michael!”  Emmy gasps, pulling Mel back behind him.  “You need to go to the doctor!”

 

“I don’t understand!”  Michael whimpers, approaching me and again I back away.

 

“Michael!  Go to the doctor!”  I snap.

 

“Can’t you come with me?!”

 

“Of course not!  I have Gus, Mel and Uncle Vic to think about!”

 

YEERRROOOOWWWLLLL!

 

We all look at the sill and there is Custard and he looks very unhappy to have been woken up!  Then out from under the sofa pads Rhubarb and after licking Custard’s face for a bit, he calms down and they both curl back up on the window sill and go back to sleep.

 

“How did they get in here?!”  I demand.

 

“Leda was here earlier. They must have followed her.”  Mel calls out.

 

“So it’s just an allergic reaction.”  Michael sighs in relief.  “You can come with me to the doctor, right Brian?”

 

“Again no.  I have to get back for Gus.  Go now Michael!”

 

He looks at Rhubarb and Custard as if he wants to wear them as coats, despite his allergy, and stomps out.

 

“I have to get back to the deck.  I’ve left Gus with Justin.”

 

“Sure sweetie.”  Emmy smiles.  “Take your time.  It would be rude to move them anyway.”

 

I make it back to the deck in less than five minutes.

 

DECK

 

BEN

 

I know I shouldn’t laugh but I couldn’t help it.  Brian’s just finished explaining the delay in him coming back.

 

“So where are they now?”  I chuckle.

 

“Still there.”  He replies.  “I didn’t have the heart to move them.”

 

“Of course.”  I reply.  “Oh by the way, I don’t know if you noticed how wonderfully the ship was being steered during that time?  It would be down to Captain Gus.”

 

He look across and Gus is concentrating on what he’s being told and following instructions.

 

“I missed it.”  He sighs.

 

“No.  Actually, I filmed it.”  Justin smiles at him.  “I’ll send it to you or Mel?”

 

“Can you send it to me?  This is my number.”  He smiles back.

 

“Daddy!  This has been so good.  I drove, I mean steered for a bit.”  Gus beams at him.

 

“I heard and saw.  You’ve done a great job!”

 

“Excuse me Captain.  We have got the go ahead for the fishing cruise. So that will happen on Sunday at noon.”

 

“That’s great and then we’ll be in dock for three days.  Return to your post Seaman Staines.  Have you ever been to St Kitts before Brian?”

 

I turn back to him to find him bug eyed, trying not to laugh.  I wait for him to calm down.

 

“I would have that name changed!”  He gasps. “Seriously Seaman Staines?  On a gay cruise ship, it’s just asking for trouble!”

 

I quickly look at Gus but he’s still entranced by the ship.  “That’s nothing. We have our Master of the Boat…he’s called, no I can’t; Justin, you can do it.”  I start to laugh.

 

“What?  It can’t be as bad as Seaman Staines.”  Brian chuckles.

 

“Bates.”  Justin answers.  “Master Bates.”

 

“Gus!”  Brian splutters.  “I’ll be right back!”

 

LILAH’S BAR

 

DEBS

 

I peer at the guy sitting with another guy at the bar and I’m sure it’s him.

 

“Excuse me?”  He looks up and gives me a small smile.  “Um aren’t you the guy who asked to help with the little boy that was lost?”

 

“Yes.  Carl.  Carl Horvath.  And you are?”

 

“Deb Novotny.  But most just call me Debs.  Can I buy you a drink?”

 

“Sure but why?”

 

“Grandson.  The little boy Gus, he’s my grandson.”  I explain and wave at Franc but she just jerks her head to the other end of the bar.

 

“Excuse me a minute, Carl.”  I follow Franc and she’s grinning.  “What is it?”

 

“The friend is called Rodney and he’s been glancing at Vic for the last 10 minutes. You might want to give him a heads up on that.”

 

“Really?”  I grin.  “Leave it with me.”  And start to head back, when she grabs my hand.

 

“And Carl has a tender but broken straight heart.”  She grins.  “Maybe you could be a friend to him?”

 

“He’s straight!”  I gasp.

 

“And Rodney’s not the only one that’s been glancing in that direction.”

 

I bustle back with the menu and a big smile.  “So why don’t you two come join us?”

 

“Oh we don’t want to intrude, do we Rodney?”  Carl demurs.

 

“If you were intruding, you wouldn’t be invited.  So shall we?”

 

An hour later, we are howling with laughter as Carl tells us about the crazy people he’s arrested.  Carl and I both ignore the way Rodney and Vic’s chairs got closer and closer.

 

DECK

 

BRIAN

 

I can’t believe I’m steering a cruise ship!  Although I don’t remember entering this competition, I’m glad that I did.  I like Ben…and for the first time I like a guy without wanting to fuck him.  Justin, on the other hand is completely different. I like him and I want to do bad-but-oh-so-good things to him!  I watch him as he writes with Gus.  Gus wanted to know the names of all the buttons.

 

“So you coming?”  Ben asks.

 

“Coming where?”  I peer out to sea determined to keep us on course.

 

“Tuna fishing on Sunday.  I think you’ll be good at it.”  He grins.  “Franc organises them.  She knows the area around here.  Her mom is from Grenada. She was Miss Grenada by the way, which has the best fishing grounds, and she has family on the other islands.  We cook what we catch for dinner in the evening.  She does a ceviche to die for.”

 

“I’ve always wanted to go fishing…so yeah, we’ll be there.”

 

“Unfortunately, Gus can’t come.  It’s going to be bouncy and there’s a lot of running around and when the tuna lands…”

 

I nod in understanding.  “His momma will love to have some time with him.  What with her not being well, I think a day with him would be great.”

 

“Great.  Justin, are you going to come with?  See if you can finally beat her?”

 

Please say yes!  Please say yes!

 

“Yeah.  I will do it.  Though she does have fishing in her blood so she has an advantage.”

 

“Franc fishes?”

 

“She’s landed a 20 pounder.  And still holds the record.  But only because mine got off the line.”  He pouts.

 

Seriously adorable!

 

Gus rubbing his eyes gets my attention but Justin gets there first.  “You tired little guy?”

 

He nods and reaches up for him and I don’t feel jealous.  “Let’s go back and you can grab Rhubarb and Custard at the same time.”

 

“Okay.  Bye for now Captain.”

 

“See you guys on Sunday.”  Ben smiles and takes the cap off Gus’s head and puts it in the bag with the model of the ship.

 

As we walk back, I look at my watch and can’t believe it is almost six o’clock!

 

I open the door and pray they haven’t crapped anywhere but I find the interconnecting door open and voices coming from Mel’s suite.

 

“Shall I put him in your bedroom?”  Justin asks quietly and I nod.

 

MEL AND GUS’S SUITE

 

EMMY

 

Mel is looking so much better.  But we are all, and I mean all because Uncle Vic, Rodney, Carl, Debs, Leda and Ted are in the lounge, laughing about what happened to Michael.  In the end, he got Ted to go with him. Michael demanded that he be given the strongest antihistamine there is so he could get better quicker but that has one rather painful side effect. So he’s now in bed unable to be too far from the bathroom.

 

“Sorry Mel, I…”

 

“Don’t worry. I caught up on some more sleep so it’s all good.  Where is he?”

 

“In his daddy’s bedroom.  Steering a ship is tiring.”  Justin answers and the room goes quiet.

 

“Steering a…”  Debs looks puzzled.

 

“Yeah, he was steering earlier.  We’ve got footage.  Justin, is there a way it can play on the TV?” Brian adds.

 

“Sure give me a few minutes, shall I use my phone or yours?”  He asks, starting to pull out wires.

 

“Mine.  Here you go.  Code is 0908.  You guys want to eat something? Because I’m actually hungry.”

 

“Uh sure.  I think I should definitely eat something.”  Mel manages to get out while everyone just stares at Brian.  “Is Franc off duty now? Justin, do you know?”

 

“Yeah.  Always has the Friday night off before fishing, so she can go through her gear.”  He puts the stuff down and stands up.  “I’ll beep her to bring up some drinks.  Why don’t I order and you jump in the shower real quick Brian?”

 

“Gus needs a shower too, but he’s crashed out.  Maybe…” He ponders.

 

“One dirty night is not going to kill him.  Let him sleep.”  Justin says and pushes Brian in the direction of his bathroom.

 

“Okay.  10 minutes!  I want the dumplings and the wings with bacon jam!” Brian calls out.

 

“Got it!” Justin responds with a smile.

 

BRIAN’S BATHROOM

 

BRIAN

 

Just as I’m getting in the shower, it occurs to me. Michael doesn’t have the code to my phone but Justin does.  And he bossed me about and I wasn’t fucked off!

 

Ten minutes later, I’m heading back to Mel’s suite.

 

MEL AND GUS’S LOUNGE

 

The TV is all set up and Franc has arrived as well as the food.

 

I had checked on Gus before I came in and nothing but a hurricane, atomic bomb and a thunderstorm is waking him.  I tucked Leather Bear in next to him and was about to shut the door when Rhubarb and Custard marched in and curled around him.

 

“Thanks guys.”  I whispered.

 

The next hour was passed in silence as we watched my Sonny Boy, mine, steer the ship.

 

“I understand you are coming on Sunday?”  Franc pops a dumpling in her mouth.

 

“Coming where?”  Emmy asks.

 

“Tuna fishing.”  Franc snickers as he grimaces.  “No it’s good, we fish and oh…”

 

“What honey, you okay?”  Debs immediately gets up.

 

“I’m fine.  But had an idea.  Why don’t you guys all come but stay on one of the islands I know and we’ll have a BBQ.  This boat is going to be moored.  We come get you and that way Gus can take part.”  She looks around before locking eyes with me.  “I will prep the food; all they have to do is cook it.”

 

“I think that’s a wonderful idea!”  Emmy squeals.  “What does one wear to a beach BBQ?”

 

“Go to Diamonds. They’ll fix you up.  Tell them Franc sent you.”

 

“Right so tomorrow, we’re all going to convene at Diamonds for fittings for BBQ attire and then meet on the... where at what time on Sunday?”  Emmy looks around in full caterer mode.

 

“Portside at 1200.”  Franc replies and stands up.  “Christ, it’s eleven o’clock! Well that’s me done.  See you guys on Sunday.  Word to the wise Brian, Ben and Justin are very competitive, not as good as me but very competitive.”

 

“Ben is going to be there?”  Emmy asks.

 

“Yeah.”

 

“So where’s the best place for a pedicure etc.”  Emmy looks at her then goes bright red.  “Well I’ll be going, goodnight!”  He practically gallops out the room and soon it is just the two of us.

 

BRIAN’S BEDROOM

 

“Need some help?”  I ask as he checks where one cat ends and the other begins.  Seems they have shifted during the night.

 

“A little.”  He giggles…oh that giggle.  “When they’re dead-to like this, it’s not fun waking them up.  Oh wait, be right back.”

 

When he comes back he has a handful of cold chicken and hands me some.  “You take one end, I’ll take the other and we meet in the middle.”  He whispers.

 

I watch him wave a piece of chicken at an end of fur and I do the same. Halfway down, up pops a head.

 

“Got Custard.”  I tell him as he sits up to empty my hand and is swiftly followed by Rhubarb.

 

Once they’re finished, they stretch and with one parting look at Gus head to the door.

 

“Justin.”  He stops.  “Thank you for today. It was excellent.”

 

“You won’t be saying that on Sunday when I kick your ass at fishing!”  He chuckles quietly.

 

“If anyone’s ass is going to be whipped, it will be yours.”  I assert.

 

“Do we have a bet then?”  He blinks so innocently up at me that I know I shouldn’t but…

 

“What are the stakes?”

 

“You lose, you pose for me.”

 

I think about this, yeah I can do that.  “Okay and if you lose, you have to…”  My mind goes blank.

 

“I’m sure you can think of something between now and then. Just keep it on par and we’ll be fine.  Though I'm not going to lose…. of course.”

 

I open the door and shake my head when they start to leave. As he walks down the corridor, he waves over his shoulder and Custard slow blinks at me.

 

As I head to bed to join Gus, my phone beeps and I read the text.  “By the way you’d be almost naked.”

 

Fuck!

 

 

CHAPTER 6 – PITCHING AND BITCHING

 

DAY 8 – MORNING

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I didn’t think it was possible to crap so much but at least the rash is gone so it was worth it.  I grab my card and double check my face…yes back to my best. As I let myself out, I run into Ethan.

 

“What are you doing on these floors?  I heard you were removed?  I sneer.

 

“Being removed from looking after these floors doesn’t mean banned.  I am allowed around all of the ship you know.  Now excuse me, I have other duties to attend to.”

 

I watch him stalk to the lift and wait. There is no way I’m sharing anything with him!

 

ETHAN

 

Shit and double shit!  If he didn’t come out then, I could’ve snuck to Brian’s suite and left my note.  Too late now.

 

MICHAEL

 

I head to Brian’s suite and knock and knock.  Nothing.  I press my ear to the door and can’t hear anything.  I start to knock again when Mel comes down the corridor.

 

“Morning Michael, we’re on the beach deck.  Forgot my camera.  Going ahead or going to wait?”

 

Beach deck?

 

“I’ll wait.”  I reply.  When she comes out again, I notice she’s in her sports gear.  “Are you sure you should be exercising in your condition?”  I ask as we virtually jog along.

 

“Who’s the one wheezing Michael?”  She asks as we hit the deck.

 

BEACH DECK

 

What greets me has me thinking bad thoughts!  The expanse of flesh is amazing!  After about 20 minutes of watching and walking, I relocate Mel.

 

“Where’s everyone else?”  I ask as she does a stretch.

 

“Breakfast.”  She replies.

 

“Breakfast?  You said we were on the beach deck.”

 

“Yes we; Leda and I. She’s runs the club.”

 

I glare at her and stomp off to the restaurant.

 

SEABIRD RESTAURANT – 20 MINUTES LATER

 

I find everyone at our allotted table but we seem to have acquired a couple more people.

 

“Morning, everyone.”  I say and sit down.

 

“Hey Mikey, how you feeling? You look a lot bet…no Gus, don’t eat that! It’s chilli.”

 

“I’m fine thanks.  We have new people with us I see.”

 

“Oh sorry sweetheart!  This is Carl and this is Rodney.”  Ma introduces us and then goes back to speaking to Carl, without asking how I feel!

 

“Where’s Emmett? Do you know, Brian?”

 

“With Franc sorting out the menu for tomorrow.”  Uncle Vic replies.  “I’m so looking forward to it.”

 

“Menu?  Tomorrow?  Can someone tell me what’s going on?”  I demand.  “I’ve been in bed sick, remember?”

 

“We’re going for a beach BBQ while the manlier ones among us, fish.”  Carl smiles at me, which I ignore.  “I’d love to go but it’s hard work out there.”

 

Emmett’s arrival stops me from replying. “Sweeties!  Menu is sorted, but I need daddy approval from you though, Brian. Oh, hello Michael, how are you feeling? You’re still looking a bit red in patches.”

 

“No I’m not!”  I retort.

 

“Actually sweetheart, you are.”  Ma contradicts me but when I look to Brian for support, he’s still reading the fucking menu!

 

“Menu’s good.  Not sure how beef short ribs are going to work with little hands though.” He tells Emmett, obviously ignoring my narrowed eyes.

 

“She said she’d make his extra short.”  Emmett laughs, then takes the menu and goes back to wherever he was.

 

I signal Tyler to order my food when a tall woman literally glides over.

 

“Good morning Kinney party.  I’m Veronique Charles-Prince, who is Mr Kinney?”

 

“That would be me.”  Brian stands up but she waves him back.

 

“I’m here on behalf of my husband Rupert, who owns the company.  May I sit?”

 

I wonder what other free stuff is coming our way; I’m so glad I did this! Now, if I could just spend some actual uninterrupted time with Brian without the family, friends or fucking cats, all my efforts to make this trip happen will be worth it.

 

“Of course.”  Brian waves her into Emmett’s seat.

 

She clears her throat.  “This is a bit of a liberty and I will understand if you say no, since you are on holiday after all.  But Franc sent me your card and I did a bit of research on you.  I like what I found.  And having spoken to my husband, who’s in Norway for the next 10 days.  We’d like you to do a pitch to the board when he returns.  The VanGuard rolling contract is up for renewal soon and…”

 

“Are you serious?!”  Brian gasps and she smiles.

 

“Absolutely.  The Seabird advertising is tired and not reaching the right market.  From what I’ve seen of your work, you’d be perfect.  You just need to convince my husband and his son.”

 

“I…”  Brian begins.

 

“Before you respond, take the time over the weekend to think about it.  Let me know your decision on Monday.”

 

“Okay, Monday it is.”  Brian is still stunned.

 

“Thank you Mr Kinney and…”

 

“Brian.”

 

“Brian, thank you.  By the way, I hope you take your loss with good grace. She’s a kick ass fisherwoman.  Learned from the best.  Good day to you all.”

 

“You’re not going to take this job are you?”  I ask, stage-whispering once she’s out of earshot, but loud enough so the whole table can hear and provide me with backup. I’ll be fucking damned if Brian takes this job!

 

“I don’t know…”

 

“What about Gus? He wants to spend time with his daddy?”  I point out, pouring on the guilt. I know what it’s like when he’s in the middle of a pitch.  Having to share time with someone who is going to be my stepson is one thing; sharing it with work while on holiday is unacceptable!

 

“Hi guys.”  Mel sits next to me.  “What’s got the gobsmacked look on your face Brian?”

 

Aha an ally!

 

“The wife of the owner of Seabird has asked him to pitch in 10 days.”  Ma tells her, beaming for some reason.  “And he’s got till Monday to make a decision.”

 

“Wow!  You going to do it?  It would…” Mel begins but I interrupt. I want her to know that I agree with her reasoning for not allowing Brian to do this. I knew I could count on her to put a stop to this shit!

 

“That’s what I was saying. Doing this would eat into his time with Gus.”

 

“I wasn’t going to say that.”  Mel glares at me.  “What I was trying to say before I was rudely interrupted was that this would be a huge fu…feather in your cap against Vance, Brian.”

 

Wait.  What?!

 

“If you decide to go for it or not, we’ll support you.  It’s not as if Gus is with you all day.  He’s got club and everything else. As long as you have a hard stop timewise, it will be fine.”

 

“What will be fine?  Ooh squeeze up, people!”  Emmett demands.

 

Mel catches Emmett up and he stares at Brian for a bit.  “Well doing it gets my vote!”

 

“Okay, why?”  Brian asks grinning.

 

“I’ll be your talent spotter of course!”  He cackles and Brian just shakes his head.

 

“Now come-come people, Diamonds awaits!”

 

“Diamonds?  What’s Diamonds?”  I ask as Tyler puts my food down.

 

“Clothing store.  We need to be BBQ pitch perfect.”  He replies as everyone starts to get up.  “Trust me, we’ll still be down there by the time you finish.  Everyone ahead of me.  Toodles Michael!”

 

I stab my egg hard then start to eat quickly.  Once I finish, I head to Diamonds but the layout is so confusing…oh wait!  Is that a comic book store?!

 

DIAMONDS CLOTHING STORE – 30 MINUTES LATER

 

EMMETT

 

I love shopping!  But even better, I love shopping with unlimited expenses!  As long as it goes through Brian’s suite card, then it’s fine.  However, I’ve spoken to the family and we’re not telling Michael that.  But today, it’s unavoidable.

 

Diamonds is a wonderful place!  It has both mid and high end clothes and accessories.

 

“Kinney Party?”  Somebody asks.

 

“Yes, this is us.”  I reply and shake his hand.  “But the person you need to speak to is that tall drink of water over there.  One minute...Brian a moment!”

 

Brian comes over and The Shopkeep eyes him carefully.  “Oh I know exactly where you are going to be.  But first things first…”  He shuts and locks the door.  “Eyl, my name is Eyl and you have the store to yourselves for 2 hours.  Is there anyone else coming?”

 

“Yeah but he shouldn’t be long.”  I reply.

 

“Okay let’s begin.  You are being kitted out for a beach BBQ, correct?”  He turns to me and I nod.  “Right, you and I are going to have our work cut out for us.  I suspect we have a stubborn man over there.”

 

“You have no idea!”  I chuckle.

 

“I’m not stubborn.  I just like what I like and nothing else.”  Brian protests, almost crossing his arms.

 

“We’ll leave him till last.  He might be worn out by the end.”  Eyl queries.

 

“If there’s one thing that I never tire of it’s shopping.”  Brian smirks.

 

“Daddy, what’s the other thing?”  Gus looks up at him.

 

“Yes daddy, do tell your son what the other thing is?”  Mel snickers.

 

“Dancing, Sonny Boy.  Dancing.”

 

“Both horizontal and vertical.”  Debs chuckles.

 

“Oh you’re bad. Now let’s shop!”  Eyl laughs.

 

COSMIC COMICS – AN HOUR LATER

 

MICHAEL

 

I have a stack of stuff in front of me and the cashier is ringing them through.  I can’t wait to get them back to my store.

 

“Do you know where Diamonds is?”  I ask the cashier.

 

“Yeah.  We’re on the 3rd level and they are on the 6th.  You can’t miss it.”

 

“I’ve been all over and managed to miss it.”  I grumble and he just looks me up and down.

 

“Well just stay on this side of the ship and go up three floors and there you are.  Shines bright does the Diamond.”  He chuckles and I look blankly at him.  “That will be $65.80 cash or credit.”

 

“Actually I’m part of the winning Kinney party, can you charge it to that?”  I reach for the bag of the comics and toys but he puts his hand on top and shakes his head.

 

“Not without Mr Kinney being present.  We would need him and the card.”  His smiles sympathetically at me before clearing his throat.  “We can keep these for you until Mr Kinney is with you.  Now if you could excuse me, I need to serve this customer.”

 

I glare at him and reach for my phone.  “I won’t be one minute.”  I head out of the store but there’s no fucking signal.  It takes a good five minutes for me to find a WiFi spot.

 

DIAMONDS CLOTHING STORE

 

EYL

 

Okay, he really wasn’t kidding about not wearing what he doesn’t want to wear!  This is perfect for him.  He won’t even consider holding it up against himself to see!

 

“There’s lime green!”  He reiterates backing away from me.  “No…”

 

“But the majority of the shirt is brown.  The chartreuse is a very small part of it.”

 

“Again no.  Let’s…”

 

“Oh that’s a pretty shirt daddy.”  Gus comes back from getting changed and looks at the shirt with a smile.  “I like that.”

 

“Really, Sonny Boy?”  Brian looks at it again.  “What do you like about it?”

 

“It’s the same colour as your hair and I love the colour of your hair.”  He touches the shirt against his face.  “And it feels nice, all slippy and soft.”

 

He looks at the shirt again and then sighs.  “Okay give it to me, I’ll try it on.  Sonny Boy, can you look after my phone?”

 

He hands it to him and I watch Gus carefully tuck it into the front of Leather Bear’s dungarees and smile. He’s so adorable!

 

BRIAN

 

Oh fuck!  I love this shirt!  It would be perfect with the D&G suit I saw.  “Uh Eyl…”

 

“I got both the D&G and the Gucci suits for you.”  He calls out, handing them through the curtain.

 

“Daddy, did you like the shirt too?”  Gus asks.

 

“Yes I did Sonny Boy, well chosen.”  I poke my head out and Eyl only smirks a little and I roll my eyes at him.  “Now can you go with Eyl to get a couple of ties that go with the shirt please?”

 

“Oh yes!”  He holds his hand up to Eyl and they walk away.

 

MICHAEL

 

“Brian, it’s me again!  Can you call me back when you get this third message?”

 

After another 15 minutes of silence, I’m fuming that he’s not called me back.  I really want the things today as I don’t believe he’s going to keep them for me.  I try Brian again.

 

DIAMOND CLOTHING STORE

 

MEL

 

“Brian, we’re done.  So we’re heading for something to eat.  Gus you want to come with us?”

 

“No Momma.  I want to stay with daddy.  As I now have to sort out his socks.  But can you take Leather Bear with you?”  I nod and carefully pick him up and put him in the basket.

 

“Sure honey.  We’ll be at Lilah’s.”  I smile at Gus sitting on the floor sorting through a pile of socks and ties.

 

“Okay we’ll be another half an hour tops!”  Brian calls out.

 

“Uh Brian, I’ve found this.”  Emmett comes in with a tank.  “And these jeans will look perfect, don’t you think Eyl?”

 

“Perfect and I have the perfect belt.  One minute!”

 

Brian sticks out a hand and takes them in.  “Make that 45!  Emmett, does that come in blue?”

 

“I saw a blue but I’m not sure about it, too wishy washy I think.  But there’s a lovely olive green, not lime… olive.”

 

“Brian, that’s too long for Gus to go without food.  He ate early.”  I object.

 

“Honey she’s right.”  Emmett agrees.  “Tell you what, I’ll bring Gus along once he’s done with the ties and socks, okay?  I’m beginning to get a little peckish.  But I want to see that top on him first.”

 

“Okay thanks Em.  Gus, did you hear that?”  He looks up, nods and smiles before going to back to making sure his daddy has the right socks.

 

COSMIC COMICS

 

MICHAEL

 

There’s a different cashier when I return.  “Hi I’m here to collect that.”  I point at my shopping bag.

 

“Ah Mr Kinney, can I have your card please?”

 

“No I’m not Mr Kinney.  Is it possible for you put it on my room bill?”  I hand him my swipe card.

 

“Unfortunately not, because your room is registered under Mr Kinney, I would need his card.”

 

I grind my teeth in frustration before handing my credit card over.

 

“There you go sir.  Enjoy!”

 

“Thanks.”  I grind out.  “Diamonds is on the 6th level, isn’t it?”

 

“Yes.  Have a nice day.”

 

I just stalk out and go to find Brian!

 

DIAMONDS CLOTHING STORE

 

BRIAN

 

I look at the sea of bags on the trolley and the smirk on Eyl’s face.  “Okay you were right about the shirt.  And the belt.  And virtually everything else.”  I smile at him and he chuckles.

 

“Oh honey, you have no idea how many come in like you did but go out with a brand new wardrobe.  But you... now you were a tough one.  Thank goodness for Gus.”

 

“So what happens about paying for this?”  I pick up a pair of sunglasses.

 

“All expenses paid, remember?”  He grins at me and exchanges the sunglasses and after I try them on, I put them in one of the bags.

 

“I insist on giving you commission on this.  No I mean it.”  I hand over my credit card and smile at the face that Vance will make when that other bill slides across his desk!

 

“Right all done.  Now you go enjoy the rest of your day.  Thank you, you really didn’t have to.”

 

“Yes I did.”  I smile at him.  “Bye.”

 

“Oh just in case Gus forgets to tell you, your phone is in the front of Leather Bear.”

 

“Thanks.”

 

I head out and realise that we’ve been there for almost three hours. He definitely earned it.  I start to head to Lilah’s when I hear my name being called.

 

“Brian!”  I turn round and wait for Michael to catch up with me.

 

“Hey Mike…”

 

“Where have you been?!  I’ve been calling for ages!”

 

“I just heard you call so that’s not ages.  And, as you knew, we were in Diamond Clothing Store; we never left.  You found a comic book store, I see.”  I shake my head. Only he could be on a luxury cruise and find a comic book store!

 

“Huh?  Oh yeah.  Why didn’t you call back?”

 

“I didn’t have my phone.  You hungry?”  He’s starting to sound worse than Gus during a very rare, but impressive, queen out.

 

“What do you mean you didn’t have your phone?”  He demands and I come to a halt.  It takes him a few steps to realise I’m not next to him.  “Brian?”  He asks, coming back.

 

“I don’t answer to you Michael.  But since you demanded an explanation like a spoilt child, I will tell you.  But know this is the last time I do.  First it was on silent.  Secondly, I was with Gus and he had my phone.  He put it with Leather Bear and Leather Bear is with Mel.  If you were so desperate for me, you should’ve come to Diamonds.  Now come on, let’s go to Lilah’s and eat.”

 

LILAH’S

 

MICHAEL

 

Okay, I’m almost running to keep up with him.  He seems annoyed but I don’t see why. It was me that was left out.

 

When we get to the table Leda and Justin, who is sitting next to Gus, are there too.  As well as Rodney and Carl but there’s no Ted.

 

“Daddy, come sit next to me!”  Gus waves at him and people get up so they can let him in. I go to follow Brian but am blocked.

 

Before I can say anything, Franc comes over.  “Hey everyone!  Looking forward to tomorrow?”  She looks round the table.  “Where’s Ted?”

 

“Hyperventilating about how much he spent so he’s gone to lie down for a bit.”  Ma laughs.

 

“He spent but this is all expenses paid.”  She frowns and then smirks.  “So he had to go to the medical unit, did he?”

 

“Oh yeah.”  Mel laughs.

 

“But he’s coming tomorrow right?”  She asks and Mel nods.  “And coincidentally Blake is off tomorrow.”

 

“Hmm how odd.”  Ma snickers.

 

What the hell are the talking about?

 

“So before we go to the grounds, we’ll pick up the lobster pots…”  She starts to do a headcount.  “I reckon three should be enough for the corn dogs.  That way Mel can have some.  Carl, you look like you know how to cook a corn dog.  Can I leave that with you?”

 

“I’m not sure how to take that but yes.”  He laughs.

 

“In the best possible way.”  She grins and looks to the corner of the room. “Tyler.   They’re all here!”

 

“Thanks Franc!”  Tyler smiles as he comes over.

 

“Right, I’m going…oh hell no!”

 

We all turn around and watch Ethan approach the table.  “No Mr Gold.  Go away.  That is a direct order.”

 

“It’s okay Franc.  I want to hear what he has to say.”  Brian glowers at him.

 

“Mr Kinney, I’m so sorry that I made that…”

 

“You should’ve been paying more attention.”  I point out.

 

“Are you kidding me right now?”  Uncle Vic demands.  “If you…”

 

“Vic.  Leave it.”  Ma interrupts.  “If it wasn’t for him, we wouldn’t have known about the band policy.”

 

“You’re so sorry that you haven’t come to apologise for almost 24 hours.  Something as serious as that demands an instant apology.”  Brian snaps.  “So no Ian, I don’t accept your apology.  Now let us dine in peace.”

 

He slinks off with his tail between his legs and I smile at Brian.  “Well said.”

 

He looks up at me before putting his drink down.  “But if you had listened to Gus in the first place, we would’ve known where he had gone.  But Debs is right your laziness saved the day.”

 

“And that reminds me.  Justin, can you tell him about the button?  I was so steamed, I forgot.  So my apologies for that.  Look guys, I gotta go back to the bar.  See you guys tomorrow.  Did you remember to buy a couple of tents or did you just stay in Diamonds the entire time?”

 

There are some embarrassed looks.

 

“Don’t worry, I’ll sort it.  He’s like a vortex, keeps sucking you in.  See ya tomorrow.”

 

CARL

 

“She said something about a button?”

 

“Oh yes.”  Justin stops scowling at the retreating back of Ethan.  “Gus, can you roll your sleeve up for me?”  He does so.  “You see the red button right?”

 

“Yes, Miss Franc told me to press it once, stay where I am and someone will come find me.  I remembered.”

 

“Well done Gus.  But there’s another button.  See this one on the side?”  Gus nods.  “Show daddy and momma.  This is the immediate button.  It sets the alarms off…oh wait.  Franc?!  Can we do a test?”

 

“Sure!”

 

“Ladies and gentlemen, we will be doing an immediate test, this is a just test.  I repeat this is a test.  Please remain calm.”

 

She gives him the thumbs up.

 

“Now press this button.”

 

The alarm immediately comes on and the doors clang shut.  “Gus Kinney needs urgent assistance.  He is in Lilah’s Bar on the 2nd floor.  Repeat Gus Kinney needs urgent assistance.  He is in Lilah’s Bar on the 2nd floor.”

 

“Thank you ladies and gentlemen.  The test is over.”  Franc nods and goes back to work.

 

“Christ!”  Brian exclaims.  “That’s impressive!  So this band is unique to Gus?”

 

“Yeah.  Each band for each kid.  Franc is amazing.  So smart.”  Justin grins at Franc, who’s chatting away.  “We don’t have that many kids on the ships so it works well for us.”

 

“Can you imagine that across schools?”  I ask Mel, sitting back and looking at Franc with a newfound respect.

 

“That would be awesome.  And reassuring to many parents, especially those in custody cases.”  Mel drums her fingers.  “What’s the range on that?”

 

“That’s the other thing, it’s not very far.  So far only ship wide.  But they kick back in when we get back on shore and in the compounds.  They also work there.”

 

“Compounds?  What compounds?”  I ask frowning.

 

“Don’t worry, it’s not as bad as it sounds.  On every island there is an estate owned by Seabird, but they’re big…so that’s why we say compound.  Not everyone wants to walk round the islands so they can stay on the compound instead.”

 

“This guy has some serious money.”  Debs sighs.  “And honey, you’d be a fool to pass this pitch up.” She tells Brian.  I see her son’s scowl deepen because of her suggestion.

 

“Hi guys.”  Ted joins us looking very pleased with himself.  “What’s occurring?”

 

“We’re pitching to Seabird in 10 days.”  Brian tells him.

 

MICHAEL

 

Oh for fuck sake!

 

 

CHAPTER 7 – FISHING AND BBQ

 

DAY 10 – ST KITTS HARBOUR – NOON

 

FRANC

 

I go through the boat one more time.  I am looking forward to this.  I haven’t been fishing for a long time and need it badly.  I have had a word with mom and she’s promised to set things up for me. They will be on Isle Kay while we fish.

 

“Guys you ready?!”  I call out as they come down the gangplank and if there was an award for cutest doppelganger, Gus would win hands down!  He’s wearing the same style of Bermuda shorts as Brian but a different colour with the same colour shirt.  Leather Bear is even dressed for the occasion.

 

“Miss Franc!  Miss Franc!”  Gus shouts excitedly, waving at me.  “I’m so looking forward to today!”  Then he stops and stares at the boat, okay cruiser, his eyes as big as saucers.

 

“We’re…Miss Franc, we’re going on this?”  Gus asks.

 

“Yes Gus.  We’re going on this.”  I smile at him, he is just adorable!

 

“Holy crap!”  Debs gasps as she takes it in.  “This is gorgeous!”

 

Slowly Gus’s face start to fall.  “What’s up Gus?”  I ask.

 

“Where’s Mr Justin, Captain Ben and Miss Leda?”  He looks round the empty deck.

 

“Down here Gus!”  Leda calls up.  “We’re just making sure everything is up to the captain’s meticulous standards!”

 

“Metic…?”  Gus begins.

 

“It means very high.  Sonny Boy.”  Brian is just looking in awe.  “Incredible.  So, can we aboard?”

 

“Oh sorry.  Sure, we just need to get the rest of the food boxes on.  Emmy, do you want to go check them?”

 

“Yes sweetie, no problem.”  Emmy boards and I don’t think I’ve seen Ben smile like that!

 

“What’s the point of boarding if things aren’t there?”  Michael asks grumpily.

 

“I didn’t say things weren’t there.”  I reply just as tersely.  He is so fucking annoying! How they are friends is beyond me.

 

“Okay women and children first.  So that would be Leather Bear to start as he’s the youngest.  Where am I putting him?”

 

“Thank you Miss Franc.  Can he sit there in the window right up front?”

 

“Of course.”  I take Leather Bear very gently and place him exactly where Gus wants him and quickly come back.  “Now you Gus.  Guys, they’re boarding!”  I yell and Leda and Justin come up.  Justin is holding a life jacket.  “Now Gus when you board, I want you to go straight to Mr Justin and put on that vest understand?”

 

“Yes Miss Franc.”  He looks a little worried but with Mel right behind him, he slowly makes his way down the gangplank.  “Hello Mr Justin!”  He skips to him and puts on the vest.

 

“Okay everyone else, have at it.”  I smile and then wave at the local crew as they approach, when there’s a splash.

 

“For God sake, Michael!”  Vic roars.

 

“I got it mister!”  Maceo, one of the local kids, yells and dives into the water.

 

“What happened?!”  I demand, looking for where Maceo went in.

 

“Michael pushed passed me and I dropped my case. I was lucky I didn’t go in too!”  Vic retorts but then holds up his hand.  “Sorry Franc but that case has my pills and…”  He trails off, clearly having said something he shouldn’t.

 

“Are you on a cocktail?”  Ben asks, having joined us when the commotion started.  He and Vic had got to talking at the bar and he knows a fellow sufferer.

 

“Yes.”  Vic is not looking at Rodney.

 

“Okay, hopefully it hasn’t gone too far down.  Maceo is an excellent diver.  Look he’s coming up!”

 

We all hold our breath as Maceo holds the case above his head with one hand and heads to the steps before running to us with it.

 

“Here you go mister.  I don’t think anything fell out.”   He looks at where he dove in.  “But if they did, we can dive down for them. It’s not that deep.”

 

“Vic, would you like me help you check?”  Rodney asks and Vic looks relieved.  “Do you have your script? Maybe I can get you close with one of my pills just for the day. Blake, could you come and have a look?”

 

“Absolutely.”  Blake comes over and between them, they check and mercifully they are all there but one tube is full of water.  “Be right back!”  Blake calls out as he runs back to the ship.

 

“Justin, can you show Gus around this beautiful vessel?”  Vic asks.

 

“Sure no problem.  Come on Gus. You are going to love the bedrooms and there may be a surprise for you.”

 

We all go quiet as Vic turns to Michael. I stop the local crew from boarding and send Maceo to join his father.

 

“How do you think I would’ve coped without these pills?”  He demands.

 

“I’m sorry. I just wanted to board and…”

 

“I know what you wanted to do Michael and once again, cut that shit out!”

 

“It would only have been one day.”  He pouts.

 

“Michael, stop being a fucking asshole!”  Rodney snaps.

 

“Jesus!”  Brian grouses.  “Vic, are you okay?  Do you need to take any now?”

 

“Yes, he needs to take this one.”  Blake’s arrival is timely.  “I’ll get you fully replenished when we get back but this should be enough for now.”

 

“Are you sure we can go?”  I ask and Blake nods.

 

Once Vic takes his pill and settles on one of the loungers, we’re off!

 

As the crew prep the lines for the fishing, the mood starts to lighten, thank fuck.  Although he is sulking like it was a simple mistake.

 

“Okay people.  First let me introduce the crew. This is Joseph, his son Maceo, RJ, Pete, Orlando and Maceo’s friends Curtis, Mattie and Shaba.”  Everyone waves their hellos, well almost everyone.  “So what’s going to happen is that we’re going to pull the pots up first and if we’ve not got lobsters then the kids will dive for scallops and oysters.  Don’t make that face at me Justin, they’re good!”

 

“I hate oysters!”

 

“You’ve never tried them!”  I point out but then notice the deer in headlights look on his face and the smirk on Brian’s.

 

“Pot coming up!”  Joseph calls out and as we all wait, Justin is actually crossing his fingers.  “We got four!”

 

For the next hour, we pull up pot after pot full of lobsters and Justin looks delighted.  The kids however look disappointed and I can’t have that.

 

“Go!”  I grin and one by one they dive overboard and Brian takes the pictures.

 

Another hour later, we have loads of oysters though Maceo seems to be excited about something and talking animatedly to his dad.  And I think I know what it is…

 

“Where’s Gus?”  Joseph calls out grinning.

 

“Here Mr Joseph!”  Gus waves at him from the lounger.  “Shall I come down?”

 

“No we’ll come up.  Maceo has something for you.”

 

As we head to the lounger, Gus looks eagerly at Joseph as he sits down.  “Do you know what this is, Gus?”

 

“A shell?”

 

“Close.  It’s an oyster.  Now as well as being good eating, oysters are good for one other thing.  Do you know what that is?”

 

“No Mr Joseph.  Daddy, do you know?”

 

“Yes.  But I think you’d rather be surprised by this Sonny Boy.”  Brian smiles camera poised.

 

Joseph carefully opens the shell and there it is a pearl!

 

“Wow oh wow!”  Mel cries.  “Seriously, that is beautiful!”

 

“Momma, what’s the white thing?”

 

“A pearl.”  Mel replies, taking it gently in her hand so she can show him properly.  “You can make jewellery out of it.”

 

“You can?”  Gus gasps.

 

“And Maceo and I are giving it to you.”

 

“To me?  Why?  I don’t remember being especially good?”

 

“Because I like you Gus.  You are a very polite and kind boy.”  Joseph replies.  “You helped your daddy with his ties and socks when you could’ve been playing.”

 

Mental note, give Eyl a big kiss on the cheek when I get back on board!

 

“Thank you Mr Joseph.  Thank you.  But would you be mad…”  Gus stops and bites his lip.

 

“Mad about?”  Joseph asks and then nods.  “You want to give it to momma?”

 

“Please.  But if I’m extra-extra-double good, can you get me two more? I’ll pay for them if you think I’ve been bad.”

 

“You won’t have to pay and I won’t be mad. By the end of the stay here, you will have two more.  Who are they for?”

 

“Two really super-duper people!  One is for daddy and the other is for Mr Justin.  So he and daddy can have one each to remember each other.”

 

I’m not sure where the strangled noise came from but we reached the island just in time.

 

ISLE KAY

 

FRANC

 

I look to the shore and hope mom managed to do something.  And fuck me, she has!  She has set up a windbreak, about seven foot high from the mouth of the cave all the way to the sea on both sides.  Then there’s the tent…a Bedouin tent!  A fire pit has been dug out in readiness and then there’s the covered hammocks!

 

“Alright people, let’s disembark!”  I call out when I regain the ability to speak as we had all been rendered silent.

 

One by one we make our way incredulously to the, quite frankly, oasis.  “Jesus Franc!”  Debs gasps.  “You went all out and then some!”

 

“Nothing to do with me, I called my mom and she did it.  You have a fan Brian.”  I smile at him and hand him another crate, but then he goes to Joseph with it, saying something. Then he just smiles that knowing smile that Joseph has and nods.

 

“Are there any other people here?”  Gus asks looking round.

 

“Yes but way on the other side.”  I tell him.

 

“So we’re like Robert Gusto?”  He looks around again.

 

We all look at each other in confusion.   “Do you mean Robinson Crusoe, Gus?”  Justin asks chuckling and removing his life preserver.

 

“Yes him.  Ooh momma come look, there’s a couch!”  He cries, running into the tent.

 

We get everyone settled.  Carl and Debs decided they would be in charge of food after Emmy told them what was needed to be cooked.  Vic and Rodney are sitting on some rocks, having a much needed chat.  Ted, Blake, Mel and Leda are having a swing in the hammocks and Gus…well Gus is in his element, because he has Rhubarb with him.  Custard does not do sand!

 

“So we’re off to…”  I start to smile as Gus does the squirmy pee-pee dance!  “Gus, can you yell goodbye and Maceo, can you take him?”

 

“Bye!  Maceo quick!”  Gus yells.  Maceo scoops him up and runs to the portaloos.

 

“Actually wait up, I need to go too!”  Michael calls out and runs after him.

 

“Let’s go.  We’re going to miss the good stuff!”  Joseph orders.

 

BACK ON THE CRUISER

 

“Okay, what the hell was the rush?  We’ve got all afternoon?”  I ask.

 

“It took forever to get out of the room, such deliciousness now…”

 

“Emmy?  What are you doing here?”  I look at Joseph, who shrugs.

 

“Waiting for us to land.”  He smiles.

 

“We landed.  We’re going to the grounds now.”

 

“What?!”  He shrieks and dashes to the back of the cruiser and sees the island receding from view.

 

“And we’re not turning back, we’ll miss the good stuff.  So why not just take a seat right here next to Ben.  Nothing’s going to happen for a while.”  Joseph smiles, steering him gently back towards the loungers and presses a glass of champagne into his hand.

 

ISLAND KAY

 

MICHAEL

 

God I needed that!  As I rejoin everyone, there’s laughing and the kids from the boat are either playing with each other or staring into puddles.

 

“What are they doing?”  I ask Mel.

 

“Rock pooling.”  Mel murmurs, rubbing her stomach.  “Gus is having so much fun.”  She yawns.

 

I stretch out on one of the hammocks.  “Can you believe that boat?”  I laugh.  “It’s huge!”

 

“It has to be to catch the tuna.”  She replies, sipping some water.

 

“Speaking of which, where is it?”  

 

“Gone to the grounds to fish.”  She replies, sleepily.

 

I sit up so fast that I manage to tip myself out of the hammock.  Once I stop spitting out sand, I grab my phone.

 

“Mister, what are you doing?”  One of the kids asks me.

 

“I’m doing grown up stuff.  Trying to make a phone call.”

 

“Well you can’t call on that because you won’t get a signal. You need to use the ship to shore phone.  The one that Blake is using.”

 

I rush over to Blake and he ignores me patting him on his arm.

 

“Michael!  Come over here!”  Ma calls out but I need to phone the ship to get them to come back.

 

“I’ll be over in a minute Ma. I just need to make a phone call when Blake is finished!”  I glare at him, hoping that he takes the hint.

 

“Michael, you want me to come and get you?!”  She snaps.

 

I stomp over to her. “What it is?”  I demand.

 

“Sit your ass down!”  She orders.  “Blake had an emergency call from his second in command so he might be a while.  The cruiser is not coming back for another 4 hours. And after you’ve pushed past Vic to get to Brian, you ain’t moving out of my sight!”

 

FISHING GROUNDS

 

JOSEPH

 

It’s looking good today.  I love doing these cruises.  We’ve found about six more pearls as well so Gus can have a choice.  I look to the sea and it looks calm and flat, no birds, no nothing, but I know better.  I see the ripple.

 

“Cast!”  I shout.

 

Even though, once he recovered from the trauma, Emmett wanted to lounge when Franc was showing them how to cast and explaining what happens. He got curious and he’s now joined us. He’s even done a good cast.

 

“You’re crossing Emmett, you’re crossing!  Move to Ben’s right!”  He moves real quickly and we wait for the bend.

 

After 10 minutes, nothing bites so we hook them up and retake our seats.  Franc alternates between looking at the leads and looking at the sea.

 

“Emmett, you’re up!”  She yells and grabs his rod and hands it to him.  “He’s gonna pull!  He’s gonna pull!”  She grabs him around the waist and sits him in the seat.  “Feet up!  It’s big!”  Once Emmett is strapped in, she pulls on her gloves.  “Lead’s going down, brace!”

 

“Holy fuck!”  Emmett yells as he’s pulled forward as the fish runs for its life.

 

“Reel!  Reel!  Reel!”  Ben shouts, helping him when the rod slips.  “He’s turning!  Don’t let him reef!”

 

For five minutes, Emmett and Ben wrestle with that fish to get it out from the coral reef and when he’s out, he runs again.

 

“Justin, you’re up!”  Franc yells and he leaps into onto his rod.  “Brian, you too!  Ben, I got yours!  What the fuck is this bait? It’s like an aphrodisiac to them!”

 

After a 15 minute fight, Emmett lands his first tuna.  Then fish after fish start to land.  There are looks exchanged between Brian and Justin.  I think there’s a competition there.  When he told me to make sure Emmett stayed on the ship but not tell Ben, I was more than happy to help. Ben is a good man and I think that Emmett is also a good man.

 

BRIAN

 

My shoulders are killing me!  “Is it always like this?!”

 

“Yeah pretty much.”  Franc smiles.  “I love doing these.  It’s amazing how many nelly bottoms suddenly find their fishing top on these things.”

 

I can’t help but laugh.  “How long we been out here?”

 

“About 3 hours.  You guys want to go back?”

 

“No!”  Emmy and I say at the same time.

 

“Got it.  Now we’re going to go round the…holy fuck that’s a bend!”  She cries.  “Justin, you’re up!”  But he’s below deck reapplying sunblock not that I noticed how fair his skin is or anything.  “Brian grab that!  Emmy get Justin!”

 

“JUSTIN!”  Emmy bellows and he comes running.

 

“Get in front of Brian and haul that in!”  Franc orders but it’s the smiles that intrigues me.

 

“What?!”  I gasp as whatever is on the end of it starts to go down deeper.

 

“You reckon?”  She looks at Joseph.

 

“Yeah.  I reckon.”

 

As Justin squirms into my lap, I forget everything for a minute.  First, he smells of coconut and pineapple and secondly, he fits perfectly.

 

Everyone goes quiet as the bend in the rod deepens.

 

“Hooked good, pull us back!”  Franc orders.  “Slowly!”

 

“Come on you fucker, come on.”  Joseph growls.

 

Emmy and I exchange bemused looks.

 

“Okay you two brace, because once he’s out, he’s gonna fly like fuck!”  Franc grins.

 

Justin and I put our feet against the board and his skin feels so soft!

 

As we back further and further out, other fishermen are smiling and shouting.  “Want us to go behind and drop a net?!”  One guy calls and Joseph gives him the thumbs up.  “We got you on the other sides bro, don’t worry!”  Another guy calls out.  Double thumbs up.

 

What the hell is going on?!

 

“The only way is ahead.”  Franc is fixed on the lead, which has slowly moved from left to right and then finally, under the boat.  “Emmy belt Justin!”  She orders.

 

“Why he’s not…”

 

“Rod belt Emmy!”  I order and he quickly attaches it to him and he settles the rod in its slot.

 

It’s like the entire world has gone quiet as the lead bends deeper but doesn’t seem to move.

 

“Brace!  Brace!  Brace!”  Joseph yells.

 

Suddenly, there is an explosive move forward as whatever is on there takes off like a fucking rocket!  I haul Justin back into my chest with one hand and hold on to the rod for dear life with the other.

 

“Jesus what the fuck is that?!”  I shout as the engine kicks into gear a bit to catch up and the reel lets out.

 

“Reel!  Reel!”  Franc screams.  “Don’t let him go too far!”

 

“Oh yeah, we got one!”  Joseph yells as the crew cheers.

 

“One what?!”  I shout and suddenly something comes out of the water thrashing in the air and on the end of Justin’s line.

 

“Fuck me.”  He breathes.  “A sailfish!”

 

“Pull him back down!  Reel!”  Joseph yells as we reel him in from mid-air.

 

When he lands back in the water, he seems to be trying to go meet Neptune and we are struggling to pull him back up.  The entire boat is screaming reel, let out the line, stop but we just listen to Franc and Joseph.  After an hour, he’s still a good 100 feet ahead and Justin is exhausted.

 

“They fight like fuck.”  He pants, slumping against my chest.  “I’m so tired.”

 

“Come on its only 100 feet. You hooked him, you land him.  And if you’d like, I’ll rub your shoulders for you afterwards.”  I whisper in his ear. He looks up at me through his lashes.  “That’s got nothing to do with our bet. Consider it a nice thing for the other thing I’m going to get you to do.  You know when you lose…”

 

“Guys!  He’s coming back!”  Joseph yells.

 

“Wait!  Wait!  He’s gonna zag then we’ll get him!"  Franc already has her gloves on.

 

We’re reeling in from the front when suddenly he just veers off and we have to let the line out and then when he starts to head back out…

 

“Hard reel!  Hard reel!”  Joseph shouts”

 

Justin holds the rod as tight to his body as he can and I reel as fast as I can and inch by inch, slowly but surely we land him!

 

“Holy mother of God!”  I slump back in the seat and Justin almost slides to the floor in front of me.  “That was exhausting.  Can we eat that fucker?!”

 

“No, underweight. We have to throw him back.”  Joseph tells me.  “But we got your heroic endeavours on video.”

 

“Great, just great.”  I grumble.

 

“Oh don’t pout.”  Ben tease me.  “Want some sashimi?”

 

“Huh?”  I look across at him as I start to help Justin out of the belt.

 

“RJ has already prepped one fish.  Want some?”  Ben hands me a plate.

 

I sit up a bit and take the plate.  It takes a few minutes for me to realise, while we were laughing and joking with the crew, Franc, Emmy and Ben, that Justin waited to resettle himself in my lap and we’re still sharing a plate.

 

ISLAND KAY

 

MICHAEL

 

They have been gone for fucking ages!  I went to use the phone but it was gone.

 

“Look grandma!  Look they’re coming!  They’re coming!”  Gus yells bouncing up and down.

 

I’ve not had a chance to spend time with him either because of that fucking cat!

 

As it comes to a stop and they disembark, they splash up towards us and the boat moors on the other side of the island.  I make my way to Brian but Gus beats me to him, running into the sea to be swept into his arms.

 

“Daddy!  Did you have a good time?  Did you miss me?  Did you catched lots of fish?”

 

“Catch, Gus its catch lots of fish.  And yes I did miss you and yes I had a good time as did Leather Bear.”

 

“Come daddy. You should see what I did!  Maceo and the other big kids are so nice!  He showed me how to pool rock!  Rhubarb was so funny in the hammock. I drawed, no drew, a picture of him!  But I have to brush him as he was in the sand a lot.  And then we built sandcastles and then…”

 

“Sonny Boy slow down.”  Brian laughs as he carries Gus back to the beach and doesn’t even look at me!  “Vic, you doing okay?”  He calls out.

 

“I’m more than fine!”  Uncle Vic calls back.

 

“Ems, how did you do?!”  Ma calls out.  “Did you find your sea legs?”

 

“Yes thank you!  And I landed the biggest fish!”  Emmett grins.  “But Justin landed a sailfish, which are fast little fuc…fudgicles!”

 

“Auntie Emmy, what’s a fudgicle?”  Gus asks, holding onto to Justin’s hand.

 

“Frozen fudge.”  Justin replies quickly and there’s snickering but Gus frowns.

 

“You were going to say a bad word, weren’t you Auntie Emmy?”

 

I have got to have a word with Emmett about how he speaks around Gus. As his future stepfather, it’s my duty.

 

“Yes I was.  But I stopped myself.”

 

“With a made up word?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Okay then, you can use that made up word instead of the bad word if you are upset.  I don’t know what the bad word you were going to say was but fug…fudgicle is okay.”  Gus smiles up at him.  “But I won’t say it.  That’s right, isn’t it daddy?”

 

“Yes Gus that’s okay.”  He takes Gus’s other hand and they head towards the BBQ with Gus.

 

“Okay people, the food is going to be up soon!”  Carl shouts out and everyone starts to do things like I don’t even fucking exist. I’m furious!

 

As I turn to stomp up the beach, I hear a shout.  “Heads up mister!”  Just before the ball hits me straight in the face, knocking me flat on my back.

 

Half an hour later, I come to and find Carl peering at me.  “He’s awake!”  He yells as he walks out.  “Blake, what do you think he can eat?”

 

“Light soups and he definitely needs to stay in here.  The sun will be too much for him.”  He replies and Carl nods.  What the fuck does it have to do with him?!  “Michael, although you’ve just woken up drink this because you need proper sleep.”

 

“I’ll be fine.”  I state and stand up. A wave of nausea hits me and I wobble.

 

“No you won’t.  Now lie down and have this.”  He orders.

 

“Fine but I won’t sleep.”  I tell him but within 10 minutes I’m sound asleep.

 

BRIAN

 

I watch Franc and Leda start to set up a massive white sheet across the end of the windbreak.

 

“What’s going on?”  I ask Carl, while blowing on the corn dog for Gus.

 

“They filmed your fishing.  We’re going to watch.”  He replies.

 

“They did?  I didn’t notice.  Do you want that in a roll Gus?”

 

“Yes please daddy.  What’s the pink stuff?”

 

“Hot sauce.”  Justin tells him.  “You don’t want that. Have some mayo and oh I know...  Debs, can you pass the guacamole.”

 

“You guys have been busy.”  I laugh.  “How come it’s so green?”

“Peas and beans.  There’s raw peas and broad beans in there.  It’s great.  Carl had to take it away from me!”  Debs laughs.

 

“Do you want me to taste it first, Gus?”  I ask when he looks at it dubiously and then nods. I take a spoonful.  “Oh that is good, trust me Gus you will like it!”

 

“Mr Justin too.”

 

Justin takes a spoonful and he nods.  “Gus you will love this. Just try a little tiny bit.”  He dips his spoon in a takes a small but big enough amount and Gus slowly takes it into his mouth.

 

At first, he blinks after he swallows.  “Oh that’s so nice!  Yes, can I have some on my roll please?”

 

Soon we’re eating, laughing and drinking.  Gus has been sneaking pieces of food down to Rhubarb. Seems someone told him about the chicken!  But soon enough he’s tired and stretches out between Justin and I with Rhubarb over our feet.

 

“Maybe we should put him in a hammock?”  Justin suggests.

 

“Which him?”  I laugh.

 

I manage to get Gus up without waking him and put him in the hammock and he’s soon joined by Rhubarb.  I tuck Leather Bear behind his head and snicker as there is no need for a blanket.

 

“Beautiful boy.”  Justin whispers and kisses him on his cheek before we head back to join the others.

 

“Before we start the film.”  Franc calls out.  “I have some scores on the doors to announce.  Today we landed 47 fish between us, which is an excellent haul.  The prize for the best landing, of course, goes to Brian and Justin for the sailfish, which you will see in a minute.  Emmett did indeed land the biggest fish, then it was Brian, then Ben and then Justin.  But who got the biggest doesn’t matter, because it was one of the best days ever.”

 

“I do believe you said you would beat me?”  I whisper in Justin’s ear.

 

“I thought I would.  What with you being a City Boy and all.”  He nibbles on his lip.

 

“City Boy reference not helping you since I was going to be nice with your forfeit. Not so much now.”

 

“Just tell me.”  He groans.

 

“Oysters.  You have to eat oysters.”

 

 

CHAPTER 8 – SOFA SO GOOD

 

END OF DAY 10 AND DAY 11

 

FRANC

 

I start to set up the projector but then I catch the yawn from Vic. I also notice that Mel and Rodney are back in the tent.

 

“Okay time to go!”  I yell.  “You can watch it tomorrow.  Everyone is done in. Joseph, can you bring her around?”

 

He nods and heads to do as I ask with the rest of the crew.  Everyone else, apart from those who are resting, help pack up the stuff. But I do notice that Michael’s eyes open a couple of times but he doesn’t get up to help. So not only is he an ignorant whelp, he’s a lazy asshole too!

 

We load the stuff on and lo and behold, suddenly he’s awake.  “Oh I needed that sleep. Blake, you were so right.” He stretches and I fight not to roll my eyes or knock him out again!

 

“Okay let’s get boarded.  Guys sorry, you’re going to have to wake him up.”  I grimace.  “The preserver is on the boat.”

 

“I’ll do it.”  Mel walks over and gently wakes Gus up. He slowly climbs into her arms and when she reaches the shoreline, he leans across for daddy. Justin has Rhubarb over his shoulder much to Brian’s amusement. While he does sand, he most definitely does not do water!

 

“You pooped Sonny Boy?”  Gus nods tiredly.  “You need to stay awake for a few more minutes so we can put on your special jacket when we get on the boat. Then you can go have a nap, okay?”

 

As everyone gets on board, the smell hits us all roughly the same time!  “Jesus we need baths. We smell like a cross between a BBQ and a canning factory!”  I laugh as Joseph starts her up and we head back to the quayside.

 

ON THE CRUISER

 

MICHAEL

 

I follow Brian below deck and watch from the door as he puts a tired Gus in bed for a nap.

 

“Did you have a good time?”  I ask when he closes the door behind him.

 

“I can stay with him Mr Brian. I’m a bit tired too.”  One of the kids comes down.

 

“Oh thanks Shaba.”  He opens the door and the kid slips inside. He looks back at me and frowns.  “Yeah it was excellent. But what happened to you? You’ve got the beginnings of a couple of black eyes.”

 

“Are you kidding me?!”  I demand and run to the bathroom and he’s right. The bruises under my eyes are beginning to form.  I sigh and make my way back upstairs only to be grabbed by Emmett.

 

“A word and no, it is not up for discussion!”  He drags me back downstairs and into the bathroom.  “How dare you show such disrespect?!”  He hisses at me.  “Two things!  One Vic is your uncle and brought you up and secondly, how could you callously brush off how important those pills are?!  That was the second time you caused that case to be damaged!”

 

“I don’t…”

 

“No Michael, you don’t!  If you and I have to have a discussion about your behaviour again it will not involve words!”  He snarls and stalks out.

 

I can’t believe the way he’s just spoke to me!  Okay, I should’ve been more careful but that’s not the point.

 

“Emmett!” I shout to his retreating back.  “You don’t speak to me like that!  You seem to forget who I am!”

 

He pauses before turning round.  “Oh I never forget Michael.  You remind me, in fact the whole fucking world, every day!”  He snaps before disappearing from view.

 

“What do you mean?!”  I yell.  “Come back and tell me what you mean!!”  I bellow at the top of my lungs.

 

My yelling doesn’t bring Emmett back but it does bring Gus out.  “Unca Mikey, why are you shouting?  I was trying to sleep.”

 

Shaba also comes out and looks at Gus.  “Want me to take you to daddy?”

 

“I can do that thank you.”  I respond tartly but then that fucking cat curls round Gus’s feet.

 

ACHOOO!  ACHOOO!  ACHOOO!

 

“Come on Gus, I’ll take you to daddy.”

 

“Thank you Shaba.”  Gus yawns and takes his hand.

 

I feel my eyes start to itch and the burn of my skin…this has not been my fucking day!

 

SHABA

 

Poor Gus. He’s so tired, he’s almost falling over.  Rhubarb is close by.  “Rhubarb, I’m going to get his daddy. Stay with him, okay?”

 

I can’t believe I’m talking to a cat!

 

I run upstairs and find his daddy on the deck.  “Sorry Mr Brian but Mr Michael woke up Gus with his shouting at Mr Emmett.  He wants you but I can’t carry him, I got him as far as I could. He’s so…”

 

“Take me to him.”  Brian orders. I like that he immediately drops everything for Gus.

 

“Guys, make a nest!”  I call back.

 

When we get back to Gus, Rhubarb is still with him. He’s struggling to stay awake, jerking back up when his head droops.

 

“Oh Gus.”  Brian scoops him into his arms.  “Come on.”

 

When we get back on deck, there’s blankets rolled into a huge circle like a cat bed, just big enough for a 4 year old boy and his cat.

 

“Put him in here.”  I tell him and as soon as he does, Rhubarb gets in with him.

 

“Won’t he be too hot?”  Miss Debs asks.

 

“With the sea breeze no.”  Aunt Franc looks at Uncle Joseph.  “How long till we dock?”

 

“Another 30 minutes if we top it, but topping makes it bumpy.”

 

I don’t understand why some people are laughing.

 

QUAYSIDE – 50 MINUTES LATER

 

DEBS

 

Oh I am going to miss those boys. They were so kind and sweet and the pearls, oh the pearls!

 

Michael is inflamed again so he’s gone with Blake and we’re looking at the remains of the drink.  As in what the fuck do we do with it all?

 

Franc is comes back after making sure her cruiser is docked properly.  “What are you guys doing?  Go to your suites. I’ll make sure the booze is brought up.  You can fight over who gets what later.”

 

“I need to get Gus upstairs. He needs a shower... no, actually a bath and bed.”

 

“Mr Justin come too?”  Gus asks hopefully.  He woke about 20 minutes into being put into the nest and was chatting away but he’s starting to flag. I think the bath will be the end of him for the night.

 

“Sure. I think I will have another reason to be there.”  Justin replies mysteriously and follows Brian up the gangplank.

 

“Seriously, we can keep all the booze?”  Carl asks.

 

“Well the Kinney party gets to take them.”  Franc looks at me then Carl.  “Who they invite to share their hoard is up to them.  Let me get the trolley.”

 

DEBS’ SUITE – HALF AN HOUR LATER

 

CARL

 

Well I can’t believe it.  This is turning out to be one of the best holidays of my life.

 

“May I offer you a red, a white, a beer, some bubbles or something stronger?” Deb asks.

 

“What’s the stronger?”  I chuckle.

 

“Me.  In very small, easy for you to manage, doses.”  She smiles uncertainly.

 

“I’ll take it.”  I grin and pull her down next to me.

 

BEN’S QUARTERS

 

EMMETT

 

“I can’t believe that asshole!  That asshole!”  I whirl around the room.  “That case doesn’t contain cosmetics for fuck sake!”

 

“I didn’t see what happened but he didn’t seem all that contrite.”  He hedges.

 

“Unless it involves getting into Brian’s good books, he’s never sorry!”  I snap and then shake my head.  “Sorry. I’ve ruined a great day by raging like a deranged queen.”

 

“Not at all.  You have a right to be angry with his behaviour.  Vic clearly means a lot to you.”

 

“So how…”  I sit down and he hands me a glass of wine.  “How did you become infected?”

 

He looks surprised.  “How did you know?”

 

I shrug and then smile.  “You were so concerned.  Correction, too concerned.  And then I saw that all too familiar pill.”

 

“Ah yes.”  He sighs.  “And it doesn’t bother you?”

 

I shake my head.

 

“Okay, my ex-boyfriend was cheating on me for however long, I don’t know.  But we were drunk and horny and bare-backed just one time and…”

 

“One time is all it take.”  I nod in understanding.  “How long?”

 

“Three years.  The sea air helps.”  He smiles.  I have to admit he does look good.

 

“Do they know?  Your employers, I mean?”

 

He nods. “I used to be a professor but after I was diagnosed I figured fuck it and trained to be a sea captain.”

 

“Well I’m glad you did.”  I grin.  “Now you need to do one of two things, either move to the other chair.  Or pick head or feet because I need to stretch out on this couch.  I’m exhausted!”

 

“Head.”  He replies and stands up.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – BATHROOM

 

BRIAN

 

I can’t help but laugh to myself.  When we got back to the suite, sitting outside looking highly unimpressed was Custard.  I just stared at him and then back at Justin.

 

“Uh why?”  I ask as Gus and Rhubarb greet him enthusiastically.

 

“Like you’ve said, Justin!”  Leda snickers.  “They are good judges of character.  And Custard doesn’t share his hauteur with just anyone.  You’ve found a kindred spirit there Brian.”

 

“Hauteur?”  I query as I let them in. Immediately, Rhubarb and Custard settle on the window sill to, presumably, catch up as cats do.

 

“Um, it’s a nice way of saying…uh arrogance.”  He looks embarrassed.

 

“Uh-huh.”

 

“Daddy, can I shower in the morning?”  Gus is looking longingly in the lounge and I know he wants to play with them but it’s getting late.

 

“No.  You are having a bath young man.  Now come on.”  I reply firmly and I start to set the bath.”

 

“Okay daddy.  Oh Mr Justin you can help too.  Daddy says I get squirmy in the bath!  But it’s so fun like a very small but warm pool.”

 

And true to form, he was squirmy and wriggly and all three of us ended up soaking wet.

 

“You might as well have the water while I get him into his PJs.”  I laugh and carry a giggling but starting to get sleepy Gus out.

 

“Daddy, can I sleep with you again?”  He yawns.

 

“Yes of course.  Now into these for you.  I need to find something for Mr Justin to wear since you drenched him so much.”

 

Once Gus is settled in the bed, I head to the many shopping bags to find something but can’t.  Then I think to my sweats, well lounge suits and pull out a set. I knock on the bathroom door.

 

“Justin!”

 

“Come in!”

 

The bathroom is full of steam and he pokes his head out of the shower.  Blinking to get the water out of his eyes.

 

“Lounge suit on the seat; just return them when you’re done.”

 

“Thanks!”  He beams at me and goes back under the shower.

 

When he came out, he looked so fucking sexy. I wanted to rip them off him there and then.

 

“Mr Justin?”  Gus calls out.  “Can you read to me while daddy has his shower?”

 

“Of course.”

 

After I hang the towel up, I head back to the bedroom and come to a halt.  Quickly and quietly, I grab my camera.  Gus and Justin are curled up together sound asleep with Rhubarb behind Gus and Custard laying across Justin’s feet.

 

“So it’s the sofa for me then?”  I sigh and gently bring the door too and pad to the lounge.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – MORNING

 

GUS

 

I feel so warm and snuggly.  I open my eyes but there’s no Leather Bear.  I sit up and look around for him.  Rhubarb and Custard are with me as is Mr Justin but as well as no Leather Bear, I can’t see daddy.  I manage to get out of bed without waking anybody and go to the lounge.  I find daddy on the sofa and Leather Bear on the table.

 

Phew!  I would hate to lose Leather Bear, daddy gave it to me, he’s very important to me.

 

I’m a little hungry but I know I should brush my teeth before I eat but I can’t reach my toothbrush without daddy.  I knock on the door and momma is awake and opens the door.

 

“Hey momma.  How’s Bumpy?  I’m hungry but need to brush my teeth first.”

 

“Come on little man.  Bumpy is fine.”  She smiles at me and takes me to the bathroom.  Miss Leda smiles at me from the sofa. She’s here early.

 

A few minutes later, I go back to daddy’s suite and he’s still asleep.  I go to the bedroom and they're still asleep too.  I take an apple and settle on the chair next to daddy.

 

“Gus.  Hey Gus, wake up?”  I open my eyes and it’s Mr Justin.  “Daddy is still asleep. Let’s go sit on the balcony, okay?  You hungry?”

 

I nod and watch him cut up more fruit and then he lets me onto the balcony with a bowl. He goes and gets momma.

 

“Momma, isn’t today lovely?  Where’d Mr Justin go?”

 

“To try and wake Rhubarb and Custard.  They’re late sleepers like your daddy.”  She laughs. She’s been laughing a lot more these days and smiling.

 

“I’m not a late sleeper.”  Daddy grumbles and I laugh at his hair sticking up all over.  “You try fishing like that; it was exhausting.”

 

He ruffles my hair and smiles at momma.  “How you cooking?”

 

“Cooking just fine.”  She tells him.  “Want some juice?”

 

“You sit, I’ll get it.”  He tells her and then goes back inside. Miss Leda puts up the umbrella for momma so she doesn’t get too hot.

 

“Can we eat out here for breakfast daddy?!”  I shout.

 

“What a great idea!  We’ll be right up!”  A voice shouts.

 

“Auntie Emmy, is that you?!”  I shout back down.

 

“Yes sweetie, I’ll get the others!  Tell daddy not to call Tyler before we get there!”

 

“Okay Auntie Emmy!”  I shout back. I can’t believe I could speak to Auntie Emmy from up here!

 

“So we’re eating here, are we?”  Daddy has some juice for me and momma.

 

“Okay. We’ll be going.  I’ll send someone to do the sheets.”  Mr Justin says but then Rhubarb comes and sits under my chair.

 

“Rhubie, come on!”  Mr Justin orders and then looks at Custard.  “A little help.”

 

Custard stretches and then sits on daddy’s feet before turning to look at Mr Justin.

 

“They want to stay, Mr Justin.  And I want you to stay for breakfast too.  That’s alright, isn’t it daddy?”

 

“Sure Sonny Boy.”  He reaches towards Custard and tickles his ears.

 

I hear the door knock.  “Can I go daddy?”

 

“No Sonny Boy, I’ll go.”

 

BRIAN

 

I reluctantly move my feet from my vibrating foot warmer and head the door and it’s Emmy with Ted, Vic and Debs.  “Come in guys.”

 

“Carl and Rodney are on their way up. So is Tyler.”  Debs grins and heads to the balcony clutching a bottle of champagne.

 

“Uh Debs?”  I point at the bottle.

 

“What?  I’m on holiday!”  She giggles.

 

Soon the balcony is awash with chatter with Carl and Rodney having joined us.  “So a sailfish.  You mean this thing?”  Rodney shows me his phone.

 

“Yep that thing. It was awesome and when it leapt into the air we had to reel him down. I can’t wait to watch the video. But first I need a deep tissue massage.  My shoulders and back ache so much.”

 

“Oh you too!  I’ve book a spa afternoon to get the kinks ironed out!”  Emmy winces.

 

“I can get an appointment for you too, Mr Kinney?”  Tyler tells me and I almost want to hug him in relief.

 

“Please.”  He nods and walks away to sort that out.

 

“So what are you going to do about Seabird pitch?  We need to start that soon.”  Ted points out.

 

“I know.  To be honest, I don’t know how to pitch it. I mean yesterday was fantastic, it was fast, powerful and so frenetic.  I mean that sailfish coming out of the water it was like boom!  Seriously, wait till you watch the video of it.”

 

“Uh huh!”  Emmy nods and then sips the mimosa Tyler made.  “It was hot and sweaty... and the noises as we reeled and pulled the fish in... It was so, quite frankly sexy, and that was just the fishing.”

 

My cup pauses on its way to my mouth and I look at Emmy.  “Emmy, what did you just say?”

 

He looks confused.  “And that was just the fishing.”

 

“Wait.” Justin looks at me.  “I have an idea. If, maybe you could use the footage of the fishing but just the bodies of the men hauling fish with the sounds of them hauling fish but not actually seeing them haul fish and then have that strapline and that was just the fishing, maybe that would work?”

 

I walk up to him, tip his chin up and kiss him soundly. “You genius!  But fudgsicles, we need boards and we’ve got no-one to draw them!  Fudgsicles!”

 

“Daddy, Mr Justin can draw. Remember?”

 

I turn round to Justin, who seems to be frozen in shock.  “So Mr Justin, you gonna help?  I’ll pay a fee if we get this.”

 

“Justin sweetie, you okay?”  Emmy asks, clicking his fingers in front of his face and that brings him back to earth.

 

“Yeah, yeah sorry was thinking of another idea but that needs work.”  He mumbles.  “But yeah, I’m in!”

 

“Great, that’s fantastic!”  I grin at him and he grins back but goes pink.

 

“What’s fantastic?”  Michael comes out onto the balcony.

 

MICHAEL

 

ACHOOO!  ACHOOO!  “For crying out loud, can you get rid of those damn cats?!”  I snap heading back into the lounge.  “I don’t understand why they need to be here!”

 

“I like them Unca Mikey, so daddy said they could stay!”  Gus yells back.  “And they’re going to be with us for ages now that Mr Justin is going to be working with daddy. They’re going be able to stay lots.  Custard really likes daddy!”

 

“Pardon!!”  I shout back.

 

“Mr Kinney.”  Tyler interrupts before anyone can say anything.  “Your session is booked for three pm.”

 

“What session is this?” I ask, seeing this as an opportunity to finally have my time with Brian.

 

“Spa session.”  Tyler replies with a smile and starts to take the food out to them.

 

“Thanks!  Guys I’ll see you later!”  I run out of the room and head back to my suite.

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

“Hello this is Michael Novotny. I’d like to book a spa session for three this afternoon, would that be possible?  I believe that Brian is already booked in?”  I pace the room while waiting for him to check. When he finally comes back and says that I have an appointment at the spa on the 3rd deck, I nearly whoop aloud in satisfaction.

 

Finally some alone time!

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

TYLER

 

“Right, everyone happy with their food?”  Everyone nods and smiles. These are very nice people... well mostly.  “Okay Mr Kinney with regards to your spa session. We thought it would be best to have that on the island.  Between me and you all, Hal and the team in the spa aren’t as good as he thinks he is.  The people in the spas on the islands are so much better.  He’s one of Ray’s favourites.” I smile knowingly and there are nods of acknowledgement.

 

“Oh wait, can you move my appointment?”  Emmett asks and I notice Justin rub his back.

 

“Yes, of course. Emmett and Justin, I’ll book you one too.  In fact, Mel would you like a mom and baby massage?”

 

“Oh god yes!”  Mel cries in delight.

 

I tap my pad for a few minutes.  “Okay. How about a spa session for all of you and then dinner in town. Gus will be fine, trust me. When I’m on this island, I have my little boy in there when I need my knots untangled!”

 

“Wait, I can look after Gus.”  Leda suggests.

 

“Perfect, just perfect.”  Ted smirks at Mel.

 

“And yes Ted, I will let Blake know where I’ve booked for dinner.”  I wince as he goes red and I think I’ve pushed it too far.

 

“Thanks Tyler.  That saves me a phone call or a walk.”  Ted mutters.

 

“And if you could let Ben know where to find Emmett that would be good too.”

 

“Brian!”  Emmett shrieks and buries his head in his napkin.

 

I can’t help but laugh and then leave them to it.

 

JUSTIN

 

He kissed me!  Okay it wasn’t a full on snogfest but he kissed me!  I am so glad that when we’re on the islands, we get the time off and that the compound crew take over the ship.  I have finished my brunch and I need to go but after just one more chapter with Gus.

 

SPA SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I’m pissed off that those fucking cats didn’t leave for ages. Justin and Leda went but everyone else stayed. One cat was in the lounge and the other was on the balcony...so annoying!

 

But I’m here for my appointment and I can’t wait!

 

“Mr Novotny?”  The receptionist asks and I nod.  “Okay if you go the changing rooms over to your right, then the room is to down the corridor, first door on the left. Hal is waiting for you both.

 

“Great thanks!”  I grin and head to the changing rooms.  

 

The redness has definitely gone and the black eyes haven’t come through but I do have some yellowing.

 

I head to the spa room and smile at my masseur.  “Hi my name is Hal and this is Fred we will be your masseurs today.  Brian will be in momentarily.  Now he’s having the deep tissue followed the salt scrub then full body wax. I understand you want the same?” As he says that he looks me up and down.  “Have you waxed before?”  

 

I have but it hurt like fuck but if Brian’s getting it, so am I!

 

“Yes I have.”

 

“Okay let us begin.”  Hal smiles at me.  “If you could lie down on your back and make sure your head is in the hole.”

 

I settle down.  “Ah Brian hello, please can you assume the same position as Michael.”

 

Two hours later, I’m so glad that the massage, scrubbing and waxing is over. For something that is supposed to be relaxing, it really hurt!  We’ve got towels wrapped round our heads having a steam wrap.  

 

“Okay Michael, we’re going to unwrap you now and then tackle those brows.  Brian needs a few more minutes.”  Hal tells me and although I wince with every pluck, I don’t make a sound.  

 

As the towel is unwrapped from Brian’s head, the first words out of my mouth are.  “Who the fuck are you?!”

 

“My thoughts exactly!”  The guy growls back.

 

I get dressed quickly and am about to go to my suite when the receptionist calls out to me and once a-fucking-gain, I find myself taking my credit card out. I pay and then head to the bar. I need a fucking drink!

 

LILAH’S BAR

 

When I get there I march straight to the bar and am surprised to not find Franc there.

 

“Where’s Franc?!”  I demand.

 

“Sorry sir, you are?”  The guy behind the bar asks.

 

“Michael Novotny.  I’m part of the Kinney party.  Where’s Franc?”  I demand again.

 

He checks his iPad and then looks at me again.  “May I have your swipe card please, sir?”

 

Not this shit again!

 

I reach into my back pocket and can’t find it.  “He knows me!  Tyler!”  I call out and he comes running from his table.

 

“Can I help you, Mr Novotny?”  

 

I explain the situation and he leads me back to the suite.  

 

“I’ll leave you to it, Mr Novotny.  I need to return to my family.”

 

“Fine!”  I snap, when he leaves, my swipe card drops out of the pocket of my top as I grab my phone!  And of course the battery is flat!  I contemplate going to Brian’s suite but then decide that he can definitely fucking come to me!

 

I grab a comic and start to read.

 

BANANAS RESTAURANT - EARLY EVENING

 

BRIAN

 

I don’t think I’ve ever been so relaxed. This was just what I needed!  Mel looks nice and relaxed too.  Gus was taken to the market and Leda said that he has a surprise for us but doesn’t want to give it to us until we’re on the way to the next island.  

 

We’re having a lovely dinner and suddenly Gus looks round the table.  “Daddy?  Where’s Unca Mikey?  Didn’t he want to come?”

 

The table goes quiet.  “Didn’t you mention it to him?”  I ask Debs, whose face drops.

 

“No, I thought you did.”  She replies, aghast.

 

“Okay so who’s going to check their phone first?”  Emmett asks.

 

Slowly but surely we take out our phones and are surprised that he hasn’t called.  

 

Suddenly, Justin snorts and then clears his throat before putting his phone away.  

 

“What?”  Ben asks.

 

“Huh?”  He tries to hedge.

 

“What was on your phone?”  Ben asks.

 

“Nothing.”  He replies looking down.

 

“As your captain, I order you to hand over your work phone.”  Ben tells him smirking and holding out his hand.  After a few seconds, Justin hands it over.

 

“What’s the code?”  Ben asks.

 

“1803.” He replies, starting to grin.

 

“Okay, let’s see what we have here...oh!”  Ben gapes and Emmy claps his hand over his mouth and snatches the phone out of his hand.  He reads what’s on there and starts to giggle.  

 

“Oh Brian, you have got to read this!”  He chortles, handing me the phone before whispering in Debs’ ear.

 

“Why would he think there was only one Brian on the ship?!”  Uncle Vic gasps as the phone is passed from person to person.

 

“Daddy, what’s so funny?”  Gus asks.

 

“Uncle Mikey did something silly and…”

 

“Again? He keeps doing silly things; I don’t understand it.  If I kept doing the same silly things then momma or you would tell me off.  Grandma, why don’t you tell him off for being silly?”  

 

Debs just looks dumbstruck.  “Um, I shall make sure that I do that more, Gus.  I promise.”

 

“Good.  This food is so yummy.  Not as yummy as Franc’s but yummy.”  We can’t help but agree with that.  Justin has cleared his plate and has ordered another po’boy.

 

“What? I like it.”  He shrugs and tucks in.  I wait for him to finish.

 

“Something has been bothering me for a bit.  You said when I returned Rhubarb and laughed at their names that you like animation.  Not seeing the connection.”

 

“Oh. Rhubarb and Custard is, sorry was, a cartoon from England about a cat and a dog.  The animation was basic but deliberately so.  I loved it.  And when I got the boys because of Custard’s colouring, he had to have that name and so it seemed natural to have Rhubarb.”

 

“Ah I see.”  I nod and smile and the rest of the dinner passes wonderfully.

 

CRUISE SHIP

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

BRIAN

 

I’m slightly disappointed not to find Rhubarb and Custard outside my door but hide it well.  Justin carried Gus from the restaurant when he got too tired.  

 

“Your room?”  He asks.

 

“Wanna sleep with momma.”  Gus mumbles and Mel takes him with a smile and closes the interconnecting the door.

 

“Are you sure about working with us?  On the pitch, I mean?”  I ask.

 

“Of course. I can provide you with Seabird insider knowledge.”  He grins at me and then rubs his eyes.  “That massage did me in.  I’m going to go.  Goodnight Brian.”

 

He heads to the door.  “Say hi to Gus in the morning for me?”  

 

“I will.  Oh and Justin, your forfeit is paid.”  

 

He turns back to look at me with a frown.  “What do you mean?”

 

“You lost at fishing and had to eat oysters. You ate oysters.”

 

He narrows his eyes and starts to advance.  “No I didn’t.  I would’ve known if I was eating something that looked like snot!”

 

“Which is why they were deep fried.”  I shrug and wait.

 

“The-the sandwiches?  That was oysters?!”  He demands, stalking up to me looking really pissed off.  I start to back away.

 

“Um yeah.  You said you’d never had them so I asked the waiter to…”

 

“Supposing I was allergic?!  I’m highly allergic to things!”  He growls.

 

“But you’re not.  And I’m sorry; I didn’t think of that.”  I trail off embarrassed.

 

“Oh you have no idea how sorry!”  He snaps and before I know it he grabs a cushion and starts hitting me with it!

 

“You mean cheat!”  Biff!  “I could’ve…”  Biff!  “How could you…”  Biff!  “Oh I oughta…”  Biff!  Biff!

 

I can’t stop laughing in the face of his rightful indignation and curl myself in a ball on the sofa to let him biff it out.  But come on now... he had two of them!  I grab him by the waist and wrestle him giggling onto the sofa.  

 

“You had two of them!”  I point out laughing, managing to get one cushion off him but he is determined I’m not getting the other one.

 

“Ooh you monster!”  He wriggles trying to get out of my grasp,

 

“Okay I’m sorry, I’m sorry.  But you would’ve had to have eaten them anyway.”  I manage to get one wrist above his head.  “I just made it easier.”

 

He giggles again and drops the cushion.  “Yeah I suppose you’re right.  I do like to honour my debts.”  

 

“Good.  Now go sleep, beauty.  Get some rest. Tomorrow is going to be busy.”

 

I peel myself, albeit reluctantly, off of him, and sit on the end of the sofa as he sits up and adjusts his clothing.

 

“I liked them.  The oysters, I mean.  Don’t think I could do them raw though. It looks so icky.”

 

I chuckle. “I know it’s a cliché and they do look unpleasant but they are really good, especially with shallots and hot sauce.”

 

He doesn’t look convinced.

 

“Do you French kiss?  Think of it like that but you swallow.”  I tell him and then gasp.  “Oh fudgsicles.”  I just look at him and he is looking incredulous.

 

“Did that just come out of your mouth?”  He blinks at me.

 

“Yeah.”  I cringe and bury my face in my hands.

 

I feel his weight shift on the sofa and shake my head.  Warm hands pull mine from my face.

 

“Yes I do French kiss and I owe you.”

 

“Owe me….mmmmm.”  I find my arms full of Justin and my mouth full of Justin’s tongue.  After three minutes, he stops kissing me and I’m more than a bit stunned!  He’s excellent.

 

He gets up and clears his throat. “Think I may have overpaid there.  Goodnight Brian.  See you tomorrow.”

 

“Gnnhh!”  That’s all I can say as the door shuts behind him.

 

 

CHAPTER 9 – THE BITCH, THE PITCH AND THE SMUDGE

 

DAY 12 – LATE MORNING

 

DEBS’ SUITE

 

DEBS

 

It has been such an excellent time.  Nobody commented about the kiss that Brian dropped on Justin.  But between us, we have been noticing how they interact with Gus. It is so sweet.  I know Gus is going to miss Justin when we go back.

 

And despite what he says, I spotted Brian stroking Custard a couple of times while we were just chilling before we went on the island.

 

I gather my things and start to head out.

 

“Mother!”

 

Uh-oh he’s in full on brat mode.

 

“Michael!  Hey sweetheart!”  He doesn’t take long to catch up to me.  “How are you?”

 

“How am I?!  How am I?!  How do you think I am?!  I’ve been ignored the entire time by my supposedly best friend and my mother!”

 

“Stop exaggerating Michael.”  Vic’s not-so-calm tone interrupts and I turn to face him… actually face him and Rodney!  I raise an eyebrow but say nothing.

 

“I am not exaggerating Uncle Vic!”  Michael growls.  “Take yesterday for example…”

 

The lift door gives us brief respite but it does bring more enemies into his line of fire.  Emmett and Mel are in there.

 

“Ah more of my supposed friends!”  He snaps, stepping inside and we follow, hoping the next floor will bring people that will shut him up but suddenly the lift stops and I think inwardly we all groan.  “So where did you guys go?!”  He demands, turning to face us glaring. It’s then that I realise he’s stopped the lift.

 

“Michael, take your hand off that button because you will most likely set the…”  Rodney begins.

 

Suddenly, the alarm goes and a voice comes over the speaker. “This is Steward Walsh. Is everyone okay?  We can’t see a fault on this lift. I think that someone may be leaning against the stop button.  Could everyone move away from the walls?”

 

Michael takes his hand off the button and within minutes the lift starts again. We all just glare at him.  “Not one fucking word!”  I tell him.  “Let’s get to the table and discuss this like adults!”

 

LILAH’S

 

FRANC

 

Okay, some serious shit has gone down.  I don’t think I’ve seen Debs so mad, well except when the fuck-up with the band happened. But Michael has his fists clenched and looks like he wants to explode.

 

Tyler approaches the table as warily as I feel but whatever the problem is, they are not taking it out on him. He comes to me with their drink orders.

 

“Two glasses of champagne and three virgin Bloody Marys, two extra strong and a beer.”  He looks over his shoulder.  “You heard what happened to Mr Novotny yesterday, right?”  I shake my head and by the time he’s finished, I’m struggling to keep a straight face.  “I’ll get their food up.  Good luck!”

 

“Oh I’ve handled worse than that little prima donna!”  I grin and start their drinks.

 

MICHAEL

 

“Well, can you explain yourselves?”  I cross my arms and glare at all of them.

 

Mom leans forward on her elbows.  “What exactly are we explaining?”

 

“Where you guys were from about three and…”

 

“Where were you?”  Emmett asks quietly.

 

“I was with you guys until I had an appointment in the spa and…”

 

“What appointment?  We didn’t know you had an appointment. So do you want to explain yourself?”  Rodney asks.

 

“No, I don’t have to explain myself to you!”  I snap and Emmett smiles.  “What are you smiling at?  Why are my hurt feelings amusing to you?”

 

“Oh I wasn’t smiling at you; I was smiling at Franc and the champagne she has. I can’t get through another round of the woe-is-me-Blanche-Devereaux-show without some libation.”

 

My jaw drops in shock.  “You don’t think what you did was hurtful?”

 

“No, quite frankly I don’t, not entirely.  We were discussing the spa appointments when you came back and joined us.  You never said anything and when you weren’t with us, we assumed this wasn’t something you wanted to do.  It was only when we were at dinner that…”

 

“Dinner?!”  You guys went to dinner?  Where?!  I looked all over the ship for you.”

 

“We were on the island, not on the ship.  And you could’ve beeped Tyler to find out where he had booked the dinner for us, after all he’s our steward.  Also, you could have phoned any one of us but you didn’t.”

 

“My battery was flat!”  I mumble.

 

“And how is that our fault?”  Mel asks.  “What did you do anyway?”  She’s starting to smile.

 

“He had his appointment with Brian.”  Tyler answers.

 

“Oh, who’s Brian?!”  Ma asks.  “Is he the masseur or someone else?”  She clears her throat and her lips twitch.

 

There’s a snort from Uncle Vic and Emmett is finding the inside of his bag interesting.

 

“No, there’s nobody in the spa called Brian.  He’s a guest.  Amazingly enough, there are only two guests called Brian on this particular cruise.”  Tyler finishes setting our plates down and walks away. I swear his shoulders are shaking.

 

I look around the table and they are all trying not to laugh.  “You know!”  I hiss.

 

“Oh come on Michael.  At least in your quest to have Brian time, you’ve got great skin, relaxed muscles and your eyebrows aren’t so unruly.”  Uncle Vic is almost hiccuping with laughter.

 

I feel my face flame and throw down my knife and fork. “Well I’m glad provided you with the laughs!”  I snarl and stomp away from the table.

 

“Oh hey Michael. How are you?”  Leda asks and she has Gus and that’s the only thing that stops me from swearing.

 

“As if you care.”  I sigh then frown.  “Do you know where Brian is?”

 

“Yeah, he’s in the business centre.  Gus just said goodbye to daddy and is now looking forward to momma and Bumpy time.”

 

I resist the temptation to roll my eyes and then head out determined to speak to Brian!

 

DEBS

 

Ohmygod!  My sides are aching.  I was doing fine until I looked at Mel.

 

“Momma!”  Gus cries, running towards the table and almost colliding with a server.

 

“Walk Gus!”  Franc calls out sharply and he stops completely before heading to the bar. I frown and get up to see what’s going on and my heart melts.

 

“Sorry Miss Franc. I knowed you told me before but I wanted to show momma what I did today.  I won’t do it again.  I promise.”

 

“Thank you Gus.  You have to walk and look where you’re going, not where you want to be.  They are carrying hot food and if that spills on you it will really hurt.  So no matter how excited you are, always walk when you are in a restaurant, okay?”

 

He nods and then gives her a hug and a kiss before making his way carefully back to our table.

 

“You were great with him.  Thank you.”  I smile at her.

 

“He makes it easy. He’s a great kid.”  She pours me another glass of champagne.

 

“Ever thought of having your own?”  I ask.

 

“I did and I gave him up.”

 

I choke on my champagne and Emmett takes that moment to arrive.

 

“You did?!”  He whispers and points to the bottle and she pours him a glass.  “What happened?”

 

“He wanted a kid so I gave him one.  I get to see him as this is my route but he’s his dad’s child.”

 

“Maceo?”  Emmett just stares at her.  “Maceo’s your son?”

 

“Yep, he knows all about us.  Joseph wanted a kid. He’s my dearest cousin and I obliged.  He and RJ are the parents.”

 

“RJ and Joseph!”  Emmett squeaks and drains his glass and waves it at me.

 

“Yeah Joseph, the nelly bottom, found his fishing top in RJ.  Think 20 years now.  I hope you and Ben find the same thing.”

 

For once, at the mention of Ben, Ems is rendered speechless.

 

BUSINESS CONFERENCE CENTRE – 2 HOURS LATER

 

RECEPTIONIST

 

Wow this man is just rude and belligerent!

 

“Sir, this is where people come to conduct business.  Not to have a lover’s quarrel.  If you wish to speak to one of the guests, I suggest you leave a message on their suite telephone number, but I can’t have you stomping about here like some…”

 

“Michael!”  A voice booms out.  “With me now!”

 

TED

 

I grab him by the arm.  “Which room can I use immediately, please?”

 

“That one sir, but we need it back in 10 minutes.”  She replies.

 

“Thank you.”

 

I drag him into the room and shut it firmly behind me.  “What in fuck’s name are you doing?”

 

“I want to speak to Brian!”  He snaps.

 

“He’s working.  Trying to create the pitch for Seabird.  He does not need his supposed best friend screeching like a deranged harpy!”

 

“What do you mean supposed?  I am his best friend!”

 

I pinch my brow and lean against the door.  “Michael, go to anywhere but here. I will tell Brian you want to see him but right now he needs to work!”  I open the door and he stomps out.  “If this gentleman comes back, please have him removed by security.”  I tell the receptionist.

 

Fuck you Michael, fuck you!  I am so glad that I told Brian to put the store under Kinnetic, you don’t deserve him as a friend.  You never did!

 

The look on Michael’s face was worth it.

 

BUSINESS SUITE 1

 

BRIAN

 

“Where’d you go?”  I ask as Ted comes back in.

 

I look back at my notes having just confirmed the pitch with Veronique.  We’re about to watch the fishing movie.

 

“Bathroom.”  Ted replies quietly.

 

Oh what fresh fucking hell has Michael done this time?

 

“Okay, we ready to watch?”  Justin asks, settling down with a pad in his lap and pencil poised.

 

“Yep let’s do this.”  I reply and cuff Ted across the shoulder. He just nods as he always does.

 

We watched mesmerised in silence.

 

“Well uh that was certainly, I believe you said frenetic?”  Ted mutters, clearing his throat. He stands up and then gasps as he goes still.

 

We turn around and find the receptionist with 6 other people standing in the doorway, awestruck.

 

“Can I have a copy of that?”  She asks, not taking her eyes off the screen.  “I have a brother who, uh, likes fishing?”

 

“Oh me too, but just for my spank bank. That was awesome!  You two looked hot together!”  Another guy states.  “Or should I say hooked hot together!”  He chuckles.

 

“Test audience?”  Justin asks and I just nod.

 

“Guys, can you join us?”  I ask and I have never seen people take seats so fast!

 

“We need Emmy.  Let me call him.”  Ted grabs his phone.

 

Twenty minutes later, we have more refreshments and Emmy.  Another two hours later, we have a video cut.

 

“Now we have to get photos of the patrons and some staff.  Emmy, what I need you to do is get about 20-30 men, Franc, Tyler, definitely Ben, oh and what’s his name... the guy in the gym…”

 

“Mario?”  Justin asks quietly.

 

“Yeah him and his buddy, the other testosterone freak.  Looks good but have no substance.  I like substance.”  I give him a small smile.  “And for the family side, definitely kids on the boat enjoying themselves. Maybe highlight the security side of the Seabird, but we need to speak to Franc about that, especially the patent.”

 

“Okay people, you heard the man. Let’s move!”  Bella, the receptionist, barks and I’m not quite sure when she joined our staff but I’m glad she has!  “When’s this pitch?”  She asks.

 

“Uh in 9 days.”  I reply looking confusedly at Justin and he just shrugs.

 

“Cool.  Leave this with me.  I know the board members.  I don't have to block off rooms, as you are the only passenger working in here for the next 10 days.  Don't worry none, it will be perfect.  Emmett with me!  And Justin you too.  I think you and Emmett need to work close together on this bit!”

 

And with that order, it is just Ted and I in the room.  “What just happened?”  I ask.

 

“I think we got an administration team.”  He laughs and starts to gather his papers.

 

“No Ted.  What just happened?” I look at this man who has become one of my…no, my best friend over the years.  “Ted?”

 

He sighs and sits down again.  “He was shouting in reception. You were on the phone so I dealt with it.  I told Bella that if he comes in here again to have him removed by security.  Look, I know I have overstepped the mark by doing that to your best friend but…”

 

“My best friend is right here.”  I tell him and look him dead in the eye.  “Thank you.  Let me deal with him.  And you need to let Cyn know that the same rule applies to Kinnetic offices too.  Also, can you ask her to get the locks changed on the loft?”

 

Ted blinks a couple of times and then nods.  “Sure Bri, leave it with me.”

 

“Thanks.”  I cuff him and this time, he cuffs me right back.

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I’m reading a comic.  Well I’m trying to anyway... It’s been ages since Ted’s humiliated me and after the way the others were before, the apology from them has to be massive.

 

The knock on my door has me lifting my head but I decide that whoever it is can wait for a minute or two.  The knocking gets harder.

 

“Michael I know you’re in there!”  Ma calls out.  “Stop pouting and open the damn door!”

 

I stomp over and yank it open.  “You’ve remembered you actually have a son, did you?”  I stalk back into my lounge and sit on the sofa.  I glare up at her.

 

“Michael…”  She starts and comes to sit next to me.  “What did you hope to achieve with this trip?”

 

Not what I expected her to lead with.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Exactly what I asked.  What did you hope to achieve with this trip with Brian?”

 

“That we would be spending some time together as we haven’t for a long time.”

 

She actually laughs.  “Some time together?  Michael, you spend virtually every morning with Brian at the diner before he goes to work.  I’ve never seen you be in so early.”

 

“That doesn’t count.”  I rebuke her.

 

“Time is time.  Now pull your head out of your ass and enjoy this damn trip!  Now excuse me, I’m about to follow my own advice!”

 

I watch incredulously as she walks out without a backward glance.

 

BUSINESS SUITE 1

 

BRIAN

 

We’re all back and looking at some of the candidates for the photoshoots.  After speaking to Ted, I went to find Bella, Emmett and Justin. Now all we have to do is whittle them down.

 

“Definitely Mario and Castro for the gym shots, guys 2-6 for those shots, as well.  Oiled up.”  I point out and once again, Justin goes quiet but nods.

 

“Dining shots?”  Emmy asks.  “Franc, for sure, and guys number 1, 7, 11 and 13.”

 

“At this risk of sounding obvious or as a militant dyke, where are the women?”  Bella asks.

 

“Women don’t sell gay.”  I tell her.  “When you are trying to say gay is hot, you need men.  Before you bite my head off, let me explain.  Who is used to sell over 90% of advertising?  It’s women, in invariably a sexual manner.   But when it comes to gay, most people think of men.  When you first saw the video, the first thing you said was that you wanted it for your brother as he likes fishing.  I knew it was for you but you said he.  Men sell gay.”

 

She frowns and then nods.  “Okay so the Kids Club?  Who do we have for that?”

 

“Justin and Leda of course.  Maybe showing them teaching the kids.”  I turn to Justin, who looks surprised.  “That okay for you?  You need to ask Leda of course.”  He just nods.

 

“What about the beach deck?”  Bella asks, putting stickers on photos.  “There’s an open roof class there and…”

 

“There is?”  Emmy and I say at the same time.

 

“Uh huh.  When VanGuard come to do their shoots, I sometimes help them and then struggle to stay awake!  I tried to get them to use the deck but they weren’t having it. Such a waste!”

 

I catch Ted looking at his watch.  “How far from a hard-stop?”  I ask him.

 

“An hour.”  He replies.

 

“We’ve made more progress today than I thought we would. Let’s wrap this up for now and reconvene tomorrow at 1000.  Everyone okay with that?”  I look around and there’s nodding.

 

As people start to file out, Justin doesn’t say anything. He just leaves.

 

I sigh and rub the back of my neck, then Ted clears his throat.  “Quarterdeck F, Suite A.”

 

“Huh?”  I look at him.

 

“That’s where he lives.”  He smiles at me and walks out.

 

QUARTERDECK F, SUITE A

 

BRIAN

 

Half an hour later, I knock on his door and wait. At first, I don’t think he’s there and am about to leave, when the door opens.

 

“Hi!”  He squeaks in surprise.  “What are you doing here?”

 

“Wondering what was wrong earlier?”

 

“Wrong?”  He rubs his nose leaving a smudge on his nose.  “Why would there be anything wrong?”

 

“Can I come in?”  I ask and am relieved when he steps aside. But then suddenly, he sprints to the other side of the room and throws a cloth over a canvas.

 

“What’s that?”

 

“Nothing. Let’s go back that way.”   He tries to block me but I easily get by him and lift the cloth off.

 

I stare and just stare.  “You have a smudge.”

 

“P-pardon?”

 

“On your nose, you have a smudge.”

 

He groans and I turn to watch him look in a mirror and scrub his face frantically.

 

“When did you start this?”  I ask, indicating the picture.

 

“The evening after reading day.”  He replies quietly.

 

“Did you take a picture? I don’t remember you doing that.  Not that…”

 

“Eidetic memory.”  He replies shyly.  “Oh your lounge suit...  I haven’t had it cleaned yet so I will bring it up when I have.”

 

“So what was today about?”  I ask and lean against the wall.

 

He sighs and sits down on the sofa.  “You’ve been praised a bit and Mario is a particular fan.”

 

“Well I’m not a fan of his.”  I sit next to him and dig him in his side.  He giggles.  “Are you ticklish?”

 

“Yes, I mean no!”  He immediately leaps up but I pull him back down.  “Brian, do not even think about it!”

 

“Too late!”  I laugh and set about tickling him and he giggles, squirms, and biffs me with cushions.

 

“UNCLE!  UNCLE!”  He manages to scream out.  “STOP PLEASE!”

 

“Okay, since you squealed so nicely.”  I chuckle.

 

“I do not squeal!”  He looks at me with all the indignation he can muster.

 

His top has ridden up to reveal his creamy stomach and without a conscious thought I blow a raspberry on it…and he squeals.

 

“You squeal.”  I tell him smugly, looking into the blue of his eyes.

 

“You…um.”  He begins and reaches up to touch my face.  “Feather from the…”

 

I don’t let him finish and cover his mouth with mine.  Immediately, his hands are in my hair and I’m hauling him into my lap.  One of my hands is in his hair, the other is shooting up his shirt to feel as much of his skin as possible.  I pull him tighter to me kissing him deeper and our tongues battle for supremacy. I have a hard on the size of a door but all I want to do is kiss him!

 

I manage to straighten my legs and we slide down the sofa until we are lying flat without breaking the kiss, but we do ease back on the urgency.  Soon, we are tongue fucking slowly and deeply, when he suddenly pulls back.

 

“Shit!”  He gasps and springs away from me and I take a couple of breaths.  “Uh excuse me a minute!”

 

“Justin.”  I didn’t think he’d stop but he does.  “I did too.”

 

“Oh.”  He goes pink.  “I need to uh…”

 

“Okay.”

 

Ten minutes later, we’re both on the sofa looking and feeling like a couple of teenagers.

 

“It’s going to be a long 9 days.”  I tell him and feel relief when he laughs.

 

“Ah the non-fraternization complex.”

 

“Uh huh.”  I reply and then look round.  “Where’s Rhubarb and Custard?”

 

“Lilah’s.  Franc is a favourite of theirs.  She spoils them with scraps.”   He replies, standing up and pulling me to my feet.  “They have only been one other place since this cruise started.  And that’s your suite.”

 

I chuckle quietly and pull him into my arms.  “Hard stop time.”  I sigh.  “Is that for us?”  I nod at the canvas and feel oddly relieved when he shakes his head.

 

“You don’t mind?”

 

“No. I don’t know why I don’t but I don’t.  I like the idea of you keeping it.”

 

“Come on you’ve got to go.  Gus is waiting.”  He starts to shove me to the door.  “Kiss him goodnight for me.”

 

“I will.”  I brush his cheek and make my way back to my suite.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I have been in here for the last hour.  When I came up to see Brian, I found Tyler just leaving so I convinced him to let me stay and wait.  I’m about to give up as he’s obviously not working like Ted said when his door opens.

 

Why the fuck is he humming?!

 

“You’re back!”  He didn’t seem to notice that I am here.

 

“You’re here?”  It sounds more like a question than a statement and it’s confirmed with the next word.  “Why?”

 

Why?!

 

“I want to see my best friend.  I haven’t seen you since yesterday afternoon.”

 

“How was your spa session?”  He asks his lips twitching.  “Was Brian everything you hoped he would be?”

 

“Not funny!”  I snap.  “You could’ve told me that you weren’t going to be there; it was embarrassing!”

 

“Why did you think you should share my spa appointment?  Shouldn’t you have asked me if that was okay?”

 

“What?”  I can’t believe he just asked that.

 

“Let me make things very clear to you Michael.  There are three people who are important on this trip. They are Gus, Mel and Uncle Vic.  What I do on this cruise and who I do it with is my choice, not yours.  How did you get in here anyway?”

 

“Uh Tyler was coming out and I…”

 

“Don’t do it again.”  He stands up and opens the door.  “Now I need to see my son.”

 

I stumble out of his door in shock.

 

He doesn’t mean that... I know he doesn’t!

 

I turn round to say something but he holds up his hand.  “This is not the loft and I won’t have you treating it like it is.”

 

“But Brian…”

 

The door is firmly shut.  

 

 

CHAPTER 10 – WHINE, WINE AND PARENTAL FAIL

 

DAY 13 – LATE AFTERNOON

 

BUSINESS CENTRE – ROOM 1

 

BRIAN

 

I may have to fire him.  Not only does he get what I want without me having to draw it roughly but what he produces is perfect.  Also, it doesn’t help that he smells the way he does.  He smells so good!

 

“What the hell are you wearing?”  I whisper as I look at the boards with him.  He looks down at himself and I want to pin him to the desk.  “No, fudgwit.  What is the scent you are wearing?”

 

“Fudgwit?  Thank you fudgtard.”  He grins shyly.  “Just some chocolate and almond body oil.”

 

“Stop wearing it.”  I inhale.  “I need to concentrate on your talent and the scent is... distracting.”

 

“Yes boss.  Oh by the way, step out of the office to apply lip balm please.”

 

Immediately my eyes drop to his mouth, his perfect made just for me mouth.

 

“Go and sit down.”  I groan.

 

“Yes sir.”  He whispers.

 

“8 days, only 8 days.”  I mutter and count to ten and then turn to face my team.

 

“I think the boards are good; the video cut is great. The next stage is to do the photos but I think we need a couple more videos.  Nightclub, dining, staff working and…”

 

“What about the wine tasting?”  Bella interrupts.

 

“Wine tasting?  What wine tasting?”  I ask, looking confused.

 

“You didn’t know about this?”  She smiles.  “There is a massive wine gallery, some of the wines are biodynamic, organic and vegan.”

 

“Show me!”  I order.

 

WINE GALLERY

 

EMMY

 

I can’t believe this place!  The space is great! We definitely need to use this.

 

“Have you guys ever had a party in here?”  I ask.  “Who sources the wines?”

 

“Between them, the Captain and Veronique.”  Bella replies and runs her finger over one bottle and makes a note.  “Dusty.  Unacceptable.”  She mutters.  “Failing in his duty once again.”

 

“So beautiful wines chosen by beautiful people…”  Justin begins.  “Could be one of the straplines, say with the dining pictures?”

 

Brian nods and smiles.  “We’d need to ask Veronique if she’d be in the photos.”

 

Justin just stares at him.  “Like that’s going to be a hardship since she came to you.  I’ll get Franc to ask her.”  He rubs his nose vigorously and sniffs hard.

 

“You okay?”  Brian asks.

 

“Dust.”  He mutters before sneezing.

 

TCHOO, TCHOO, TCHOO!

 

“Oh for crying out loud.”  Brian whispers.

 

“I’ll be fine if I move away from here.”  Justin makes his way around to the other, not so dusty, side.  “See.”

 

“Right, let’s just get out of here. I shall get this place cleaned from top to bottom, even if I have to stand over him to make sure he does it properly.” Bella states emphatically.

 

“Who?”  I ask.

 

“Ethan Gold.  One of the tasks as wine purser is that this place has to be kept spotless.”

 

“Shit!”  Brian growls.  “Does that mean he’d have to be in the pictures?”

 

“Not necessarily. All the stewards are trained on the wines. In fact, the only things every steward isn’t trained on are the engine and steering the ship.  May I ask what the problem is?”

 

“He didn’t band Gus when he got on the boat and…”  Brian begins.

 

“What?”  Bella looks horrified.  “I wonder if Veri knows about that.  Leave this with me.”

 

Brian nods and there’s a smirk on Justin’s face.  As we head back to the business suite, I tug on Justin’s sleeve to bring him in pace with me.

 

“What’s going on?”  I ask and he frowns.  “The mention of Veri and you smirking…what’s going on?”

 

“Who do you think came up with think kids, not cock as the first rule?”  He replies.  “She has the ear of Veri…and she absolutely cannot stand Ethan.  Actually nobody does.”

 

“So why is he still on the ship, especially after that potential clusterfuck?”  I ask, shuddering in remembrance.

 

“Why do you think?  You promise enough but don’t deliver yet then you can string it out for as long as the person is smitten with you.”  He rolls his eyes in disgust.

 

“You two stop lollygagging and let’s get back to work!”  Brian calls back.

 

“Yes sir!”  We reply and catch up with the rest of the team.

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I tried to get into the business centre earlier but that bitchy receptionist was there. So I went to the Tiger Bar instead.  I am still too angry to go Lilah’s as no doubt Franc will still be laughing at me.  But of course, the other Brian was in at the bar so I came back to my suite.  I decided to order some food from Tyler.

 

“Tyler, its Michael Novotny.  I would like to order some room service.  No, to be delivered to my suite not Brian’s, as he’s working.  Brian is my best friend and won’t have a problem with me ordering some fucking food!”  I yell at him.  “If you don’t believe me, why don’t you go check with him?  Isn’t it part of your job to do as the customer, who I am, tells you?!  I expect an answer in 10 minutes!”

 

As I slam the phone down, a thought goes through my head.  Some people just need to know their fucking place!

 

STEWARD’S OFFICE

 

TYLER

 

I take in a breath and head to the business centre. This is best said face to face.

 

BUSINESS ROOM 1

 

When I get there, the place is buzzing with activity and I have to admit to a bit of jealousy when it went around the ship that this was occurring.  Whenever VanGuard were onboard, we’d avoid helping them at all costs.

 

I tap on the door and Bella sticks her head out.  “Hey Ty baby!  What’s up?”

 

“I need to speak to Mr Kinney. It’s not about Gus but another child in the family.”  I sigh.

 

“What’s Michael done this time?”  Ted asks.  Although his tone is annoyed, he’s smiling at me.

 

“He wants to order room service but as you know…”

 

He rolls his eyes. “Brian has to be with him.  Why can’t he go to one of our designated tables?”

 

“I don’t know Ted.  But as the customer he wants an answer in 10 minutes.”

 

Ted just shakes his head and calls Brian over.  When I explain the situation, he just sighs and nods.

 

“One more question.  I don’t quite know how to ask this.  But is there…”

 

“$150.  Surely that’s more than enough?”  Brian looks at Ted and he nods.

 

“Thank you.  I’ll let him know.”

 

OUTSIDE MEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

I knew he was just in a snit last night.  When I finished ordering, I was very happy. I’m waiting for Mel to open the door as I think it’s time that Gus and I had some 1:1 time together.

 

“Michael?  Come in, come in.”  She looks somewhat surprised.

 

“Is Gus here?”  I ask, stepping into what should be my suite!

 

“Yes. Gus!  Unca, I mean Uncle Michael is here!”  She turns back to me.  “What do you want with Gus?”

 

“We haven’t spent too much time together and I thought you could do with a break.”

 

“Hi Unca Mikey!”  Gus comes to the door clutching his bear.  “Am I going to spend some time with you today?”

 

“Yes would you like that?”  I smile at him.

 

“Yes please!  We can go soft play and then…”

 

Soft play?!  Oh well whatever it takes.

 

“Have you eaten Gus?  I’ve just ordered some food so I need to eat that first and then we do soft play.”

 

“Okay, so you’ll come and get me then?  How soon?”  He smiles at me again.

 

“About 40 minutes.”  I grin back at him.  “See you then.”

 

THREE HOURS LATER

 

MEL’S SUITE

 

BRIAN

 

We’re fucking furious!  Mel and I can’t believe what happened with Michael and Gus.

 

The rest of the family are at dinner in Lilah’s. I still can’t believe what Michael did.  Gus has finally gone to sleep but it took a Franca special hot cocoa, a bath and Rhubarb and Custard to get him to sleep.

 

Start of flashback

MEL’S SUITE – TWO HOURS EARLIER

 

“Hey Sonny Boy!  Momma told me that you were with Unca Mikey today?”

 

“Yes daddy.”  Gus replies quietly, plucking at Leather Bear. Mel and I exchange looks.

 

“Did you have a nice time?”  I ask.

 

“Some of it.  Soft play was really good!  Though Unca Mikey didn’t play with me like you and Miss Leda do, momma.  So I was on my own a bit.”

 

“It’s the first time he’d been there so maybe if you’d showed him what we do, he’d have joined in more.”

 

He nods but is still plucking at Leather Bear.

 

“You want something to eat?  Or did you eat with Uncle Michael?”  I ask.

 

“Can I have something to eat please?  I’m a bit hungry and then can I have a bath?”

 

“Sure you want to eat in here or go downstairs?”

 

“Up here please, daddy?”

 

I head to jump in the shower and try to figure out what’s got my little man so quiet.

 

Once the food is delivered, we sit on the balcony and Gus hardly says a word.

 

“Gus?  Is there something wrong?”  Mel asks gently.  “Did something happen when you were out with Uncle Michael?”

 

“No.”  He whispers and then there’s the first tear that plops onto his plate. I pull him onto my lap and Mel rubs his back.

 

“Sonny Boy.  Can you please, please tell us what happened?”  I kiss the top of his head.

 

“I don’t want you to be mad at him. Please don’t be mad at him!”  He sobs.  “It was the only thing he had!”

 

“What was the only thing he had?”  Mel is trying to remain calm.

 

“We went back to his room because he was too hot and tired.  I said I would go back to you, I did!”  He starts to cry harder and it takes a good ten minutes to calm him down.  “But he said it was fine and asked me what I wanted to do.  I asked if I could read so he gave me some of his cartoon books.  He was reading too but then he went to sleep…”

 

“Oh Christ, Michael of all the…!”  Mel growls.

 

“I didn’t like them so stopped reading.  But every time I closed my eyes I could see the pictures.  A-and I don-don’t want to go to sleep because I k-know I’ll see the pic-pic-pictures!  I-I’m too scar-scared to sleep daddy, I’m too scared!”

 

I hold my shaking and sobbing little boy and mouth get Justin at her.  Within 15 minutes, Justin is up.  He takes one look at Gus and leaves, shouting he’ll be back.  And true to his word, he was back but with Rhubarb and Custard.

 

It took another 15 minutes for Gus to stop crying.  Between the three of us we gave him a soothing bath and promised, a Leather-Bear-promise, not to let Michael know that he didn’t like his day today.  Justin had Franca make him a hot chocolate that was so rich and creamy that I was almost tempted to ask for one myself!

 

After a story from each of us and once Rhubarb, Custard and Leather Bear were settled around him, he has gone to sleep.  We head to the lounge leaving his door open just in case.

 

“What on earth was Michael thinking?  Why didn’t he just come up and get Gus’s book or just leave Gus with me?!”  Mel rages.

 

“Mel, calm down.”  I tell her, rubbing the back of her neck.  We’re startled when the door knocks and knocks hard and there is Debs looking worried.

 

“What happened to Gus?  I heard Franca sending up some chocolate for him but it took a while to get to speak to her.  She just said she heard he had an upsetting day.”

 

We exchange looks as we know she’s not going to be happy.  And by the time we’ve finished telling her, she’s unhappy and speechless!

 

“But he’s four!”  She gasps.  “What the…what’s the word?”

 

“Fudgsicle.”  Justin supplies, looking to see if Gus is stirring.

 

“Fudgsicle was he thinking giving that to a four year old boy?!”  She stands up.  “That’s it I’m going to…”

 

“We can’t!”  Mel puts a restraining hand on her arm.  “We Leather-Bear-promised Gus we wouldn’t.”

 

“But I didn’t!”  She growls and stomps out of the door.  Justin ran after her and brought her back.

 

“Debs, please don’t.  You know Michael.”  Mel pleads.

 

“But Gus said that I should tell him off when he does something silly.”  She retorts and for once we can’t refute that. We were all there.  “Well this was not just silly; it’s so fudgnucking stupid!”

 

“I know, I know and you’re right.”  I concede, putting off the laughter bubbling up at the new invented word.  “But can you wait until the morning when you’re calmer and after we’ve spoken to Gus again?”  She nods.  “You Leather-Bear-promise?”

 

“Okay honey.  Can I go kiss him goodnight?”  She asks and I nod. Once she’s done, she kisses all three of us on the cheek and departs, muttering to herself.

End of flashback

 

“Well I’m beat and going to have a shower the go to bed.”  Mel yawns and stretches.

 

“I’ll wait until you’re out then I’ll go.”  I tell her.

 

“Thanks Brian.  And thank you Justin.  Goodnight.”  She pads to the bathroom and shuts the door.

 

“Thanks for Rhubarb and Custard.”  I smile at him and he yawns.  “You best be going to bed yourself.”

 

“He’s going to be fine.  Kids are resilient.  I just don’t understand the logic of some people.”

 

“I’ve been having a harder and harder time understanding Michael’s thought process over the years.  It’s like he playing at being a grown up.”  I sigh and pull him onto his feet.  “Thank you, again, kid charmer who sneezes like a kitten.”

 

He goes pink and shoves me in the shoulder.  “A kitten?  Seriously?”  I nod and he shoves me again before looking one more time at Gus’s room.  “About Gus, call me anytime. I’ll see you tomorrow afternoon. I will understand if Gus isn’t there.”

 

“He will be, he loves his Mr Justin.”  I open the door and he steps out.

 

“And his Mr Justin loves him.”

 

He waves goodbye one more time at the lift and is gone.

 

And I like you Mr Justin, I like you a lot.

 

 

CHAPTER 11 – A LITTLE MORE CONVERSATION

 

DAY 14 – EARLY MORNING

 

MEL’S SUITE

 

MEL

 

I had a bit of a rough night’s sleep. The more I think about how Michael traumatised Gus by being thoughtless, the more I think he can’t be allowed to get away with that.  I get up and go see Gus. He’s sitting up in bed looking thoughtful.

 

“Gus, good morning.  You okay?”  I ask, leaning on the door.

 

“Good morning momma. I’m okay but I need to speak to you and daddy about yesterday.”

“Alright, come and brush your teeth and then we’ll go and see daddy.”

 

Brian pokes his head around the door.  “Daddy’s awake. Shall we eat on the balcony while we talk?”

 

Gus shakes his head and sniffs hard. Immediately, Brian picks him up and we head to the lounge.  We sit him between us and wait for him to compose himself.

 

“Shall I get Leather Bear too?”  He nods and I quickly go and get him and he clutches on like a life preserver.

 

“I know what I said about not saying anything about telling Unca Mikey.  Bu-but when he’s upset with someone, he tells them and he’s really loud.  And then he sulks until the person says sorry.  So, I-I think Unca Mikey should be told that he upset me with his cartoon books but not as loud as he does.”

 

I don’t think either of us could be more proud of Gus than we are at that moment!

 

“That’s very grown up of you Gus.  We both agree that he should be told and…”

 

“A-and I think I should tell him.  But I don’t want him to be up-upset with me.”

 

“Hang on a second Gus.”  I tell him and go answer the door to Debs.

 

“How’s my little guy?”  She whispers and I just point to the couch and she’s over in a flash and he looks up at her then scrambles into her lap.  “So what’s happening?”

 

Gus looks at Brian for confirmation and tells her what he wants to do.  “Oh Gus, I am so proud of you!”

 

“Can you and daddy come with me and we do it now?  Momma and Bumpy can go back to bed because I knowed they didn’t sleep very well last night.”

 

“Yes Honey, we can go and do that and you heard your boy, Momma. Back to bed with you!”  Debs orders and then looks at Rhubarb and Custard.  “Make sure she stays there!”

 

Rhubarb has already made his way to the bedroom and waiting patiently for me to follow.  Custard is sitting, as usual, next to Brian, but glaring at me.

 

“Alright I’m going!” I gripe and head back to bed, smiling for the first time since Michael brought Gus back.

 

DEBS

 

My heart is fit to bursting and I go and sit with Mel whilst Brian and Gus get changed.

 

“Ready grandma?”  Gus asks quietly.

 

“Yes let’s go.”  I take one hand and Brian takes the other, then we head off to go see my fudgnucking idiotic son!

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

Last night was pretty good.  Gus was having a bit of a strop last night and insisted that Brian stay with him. Ma went upstairs at some point but didn’t come back. In the end, I went dancing and was out late. I have a hangover and just want a nice plate of pancakes and bacon. So, the hammering on the door is not appreciated.

 

“Oh hi Brian!  You would not believe...”

 

“Can we come in?”  Ma asks, who I didn’t see behind him and she has Gus.

 

“Sure.”  I grin at them but they don’t smile back.  “Is there anything wrong?”

 

Brian looks like he wants to explode and Ma doesn’t look much better.  While she sits down and pats the space next to her she doesn’t look at me.

 

“Sit down Michael, Gus wants to have a word with you.” I sit down and look at the three of them.  Her eyes soften when she looks at him. “Go ahead Gus.”

 

Gus comes to stand in front of me and holds tightly onto his bear.  “Unca Mikey, I want to tell you that you upset me yesterday…”

 

“So what exactly did I do that was so bad Gus?  That you need to tat…”   I pause when she jabs me in the ribs.

 

Seriously what the fuck is going on?!

 

“The cartoon books you gave me to read were scary and the words were too big.  Every time I closed my-my eyes, I saw those scary pictures and I didn’t want to sleep.  So I don’t want to read those cartoon books anymore.”

 

“Is that all?” I feel a bit pissed off that he brought Brian and Ma down to see me to tell me this.

 

“Is that…”  Brian takes a breath.  “Michael, did you even listen to what he said?  He didn’t want to sleep; he was scared.  We had to drag it out of him what was wrong.  He was crying for 30 minutes…do you know how fudgnucking upsetting that was for Mel and I?”

 

“Fudgnucking, what the…”

 

“Don’t!  Just don’t finish that question!”  Ma barks at me.

 

“Gus, can you show me what he gave you to read?”  Brian asks, looking at the pile of comics and brings them to him but Gus looks worried.  “No don’t worry, you won’t have to read any of them again.  Do you think you can recognise the cover?”

 

“Please daddy, I don’t want to look at them.” Gus whispers and I roll my eyes.

 

The look Ma gives me has me folding my arms in annoyance.  “Fine! I won’t do that again.”

 

“No it is not fine Michael.”  She growls.  Again, her eyes soften as she looks at Gus.  “Well done Gus, so proud of you.”

 

“No Mikey.  Not fine at all.”  Brian sneers.

 

He starts to look around my suite and goes around picking up the comics I brought with me and the bag of new stuff that I bought. Before I can stop him, he throws the lot out of the open window.

 

I just sit and stare at him. I can’t believe he just did that!

 

“Ohmygod!”  Ma breathes. She’s as incredulous as I am.

 

He comes up to me and leans in, lowering his voice just enough for Gus not to hear.  “Next time you upset my son in any way, I throw you out of the window.”

 

He takes Gus’s hand and goes to the door. “Debs can you handle the rest?  I’ve got to get Sonny Boy in the shower and to Kids Club. I’m going to spend the day with him.”

 

“Really daddy?”

 

“Yes really.  Do you want to see what daddy and Mr Justin do in the office after Kids Club for a bit before going to soft play with momma?”

 

“Oh yes, yes please daddy.  I can finish off Rhubarb for Mr Justin.”

 

“Great.  Now come on. We don’t want Mr Justin to be mad at us for being tardy!”

 

“Bye grandma, bye Unca Mikey!”

 

I’m still too stunned to speak.

 

DEBS

 

Well if that don’t beat all! I never thought I would see the day that Brian Kinney would do such a thing like that to Michael!  Maybe that will finally get through to him.

 

“Michael?  Michael!” I shout and that spurs him into action to run to the window and look forlornly out at sea!

 

“Ma! Did you see what Brian did?!”

 

“Michael, Gus is 4 years old.  How old do you have to be to get into your store?”

 

“Wh-what?” He stammers before shaking his head to clear it and wincing…good.  “Ten. You have to be ten.”

 

“So why did you give him the fucking comics to read?!” I bark. “Didn’t he say he would go and get his book?  And why if you were so tired, didn’t you let him go back to Mel?”

 

“What the hell are you talking about?!” He yells back. “Why didn’t he say anything when I took him back up?!”

 

“BECAUSE HE DIDN’T WANT TO UPSET YOU!”  I scream at him.  “For the love of God, you have to listen!  Brian was all set to come down here and rip your fucking head off last night.  It was only because he didn’t want to leave Mel to deal with Gus alone that he didn’t!”

 

“I’d rather he done that than what he just did!”  He snaps.  “I paid good money for them!”

 

I get up and walk round the other side of the sofa because I know that if I get too close, I will slap him.  “Grow up Michael. You’re being left behind.  Gus has more maturity than you!”

 

As I turn to leave, I find Tyler standing stunned in the doorway. “Good morning Tyler.  Michael will be dining in his room this morning!  And charge it directly to him!”

 

KIDS CLUB

 

JUSTIN

 

We’re 10 minutes into the start and I’m not surprised that Gus is not here. I would be really surprised if I saw Brian this afternoon. The way Gus was crying was heartbreaking. What kind of moron gives a kid his age that kind of comic?!

 

I look up to the door opening and immediately smile.  They’re here. Gus pulls Brian to his spot and Custard immediately settles down next to them. I look across as they start reading and they seem to be okay. My phone buzzes in my pocket: Tell you later.  I need a drink.  B.

 

I do my inner happy dance!

 

BUSINESS CENTRE ROOM 1 – THREE HOURS LATER

 

BRIAN

 

Gus is sitting and drawing quietly in the corner with Leather Bear, Rhubarb and Custard.  Cyn and Bella have bonded over their loathing of Michael. He’s definitely on both their shit lists as Bella found out from Tyler what happened to Gus.

 

Cyn is due to fly out the day before the presentation. Hopefully she should’ve been calmed down by then. I don’t know any extradition laws for attempted murder when out to sea. The team of the five of us are working really well.  Veronique will be flying in next week and she’s laying on a surprise for us as the winners of the competition.

 

“Can’t you just tell me one thing?!”  I do my best pleading look at Bella and she merely looks at me until I go back and look at the boards. “How the hell did you get the go-back-to-work look that Cyn uses down so quickly?”  I grumble.

 

“I’m a faster learner.”  She chuckles.

 

“Could you teach Michael the art of learning? You know learning how to listen, not interfere in other people’s lives, to grow up, to realise…”  Emmy snickers when I mock-glare at him and point at Gus. “Oh honey, the only reason that he’s not got a side of my tongue is because of what you did.”

 

I glance at Justin but he doesn’t seem to have heard. Then I glare at Emmy again. I want to tell him!

 

“Okay, okay, message received!”  Emmy grins at me knowingly.

 

Sometimes that man is too wise for his own damn good!

 

OUTSIDE SOFT PLAY AREA – AN HOUR LATER

 

BRIAN

 

Gus is tired but more importantly, he’s happy. He’s slightly stumbling back to the suite with Mel and Leda as if yesterday didn’t happen.

 

“Okay Mr Ad Man.  Let’s go.”  Justin tells me, tugging on my hand.

 

“Fudge yeah.”  I sigh, allowing myself to be led back to his quarters.

 

Oh God I don’t want to let go, his hand feels so good in mine!

 

QUARTERDECK F, SUITE A

 

JUSTIN

 

I’m not happy dancing about the fact that we held hands all the way here. I am not happy dancing!  Yeah right!

 

I swipe us in and Franca has done me proud.  I can smell the soul food from here.

 

“What’s this?”  He asks and I think I’ve gone too far.

 

“Um you said you wanted a drink and you can’t drink on an empty stomach.”  I mutter.  “I can um…”

 

“Get some plates; it smell delicious!”  He opens the basket and his eyes get really big.  “Good grief! How many people are coming or are you having leftovers?”

 

“Leftovers.”  I giggle and get the plates.

 

“So what’s on the menu?”

 

“Soul food. They’re all appetizers. These are secret menu items.” I clear my throat theatrically.  “First, we have a cold pea, courgette and mint gazpacho.” I hand him over his cup. I almost whimper when he licks the cup clean.

 

“Great, next.”

 

“Cherry pop wings with a scotch bonnet pepper dipping sauce. Sounds funky but taste delicious.”

 

I plate them up for him and soon our hands are covered in sauce.

 

“Oh God so…”  He pauses and his eyes drop to my mouth as I suck the rest of the meat off the last of my wings.

 

One all methinks!

 

“Nap-napkins... this needs napkins.”

 

“That’s what the water bowl with mint and lemon is for, to rinse our hands.  Come on.”

 

We shuffle across and try not to look at each other or our hands as they move in the water.

 

We need to dial this back a bit.

 

“So what happened about Gus?”  I ask and he nods in understanding.

 

“He slept really well, but he changed his mind about us not telling Michael that he was upset and scared. Debs and I went to see Michael. He just rolled his eyes and said fine I won’t do it again. So I threw all the comics he brought with him and the stuff he bought onboard out the window and told him next time he scares Gus I’ll do the same to him.”

 

“Wow.”  I try not to laugh at the horrified expression that no doubt was on Michael’s face.  “How did Gus feel when you told him that you told Uncle Michael off?”

 

“Oh sorry, no. I didn’t tell Michael that Gus was upset.  Gus told him and he said he doesn’t want to see them anymore. It will be a miracle if I get him within five feet of his store!  I left Debs to do the rest and spent the day with my Sonny Boy.”

 

“Ah I heard that bit.”  I chuckle and tell him about the evisceration that Tyler walked in on.

 

“She gave him a time out?!”  He burbles. “Oh God, that and on top of a hangover!”

 

“Hangover?”

 

“Yeah Michael. I’ve known Michael for years and he was definitely hungover.”  He sighs and plays with the rug. “Gus is the most important thing in my life.  As will the next baby, but he doesn’t seem to care about that. After all Gus’s biological mother did, I’d expect more understanding but…”

 

“What did she do?”  I ask quietly and then listen appalled as he tells me.  “You and Mel are doing a great job with Gus; he’s a happy little boy.”  I’m surprised when he leans over and kisses me on the side of my head.

 

“What was that for?”

 

“Listening.”  He snorts softly.  “Just letting me talk without interruption.”

 

“That’s what friends do, well most of them, they listen.”

 

“The food’s gone cold.”  He points out with a small smile.

 

“You can take some with you.  The scallop and prawn dumpling are a…”

 

“We need to renegotiate.”  He blurts out.  “The non-fraternization complex, we need to renegotiate that.”

 

Breathe-breathe-breathe!

 

“Okay.” I reply slowly and I move the basket, shuffling around to face him. He does the same.

 

“I feel that there should be a-an um temporary resignation clause.” He smiles as I move a bit closer. “Whereby, one or the other resigns from this company to allow a kiss, just a kiss.  There is to be no touching below the waist, no grinding…”

 

“No tickling.” I state firmly and he nods then moves closer. “No ear nibbling or licking, especially the spot just behind my left ear. No kissing my neck…”

 

“Definitely no neck kissing for me and no playing with nipples or licking belly buttons.”  He grins.

 

“No blowing raspberries on stomachs.  No sucking my top lip when we’re kissing. That’s really not a good idea.” He lifts me into his lap, puts his arms round my waist and I run my fingers through his hair. I wrap my legs around him and he brings up his knees. “No applying lip balm in the business centre... well at least not where I can see it.”

 

“No blowing in my ear. No kissing down my back. No chocolate and almond body oil to be worn at all until after the pitch. Clothes to remain on and hands to stay above clothes at all times. And no kissing for more than 10 minutes.  Do you agree to the terms?”

 

“Yes.  Who’s resigning?”  I whisper against his mouth.

 

“We both are.”

 

“Thank God.”  I groan and set the timer.

 

 

CHAPTER 12 – COUNTING DOWN…TO THE PITCH OBVIOUSLY!

 

DAY 15 – EARLY MORNING

 

JUSTIN’S SUITE – BEDROOM

 

JUSTIN

 

“Brian!”  I scream and shudder before slumping back onto the bed.  After taking some much needed air, I open my eyes and groan.  “Seven more days.”  I sigh.

 

BRIAN’S BATHROOM – SAME TIME

 

BRIAN

 

“Oh fuck!  I so needed that!”  I slump against the tiles and swallow hard.  I turn on the shower to wash it off the walls and step under the water.  But then I imagine soaping his creamy, soft skin.  Kissing his perfect mouth.  His legs wrapping around my waist… I rest my head against the tiles and turn the water to cold.   Then I turn it to the most powerful spray and aim it at my cock…that does the trick!  “This is going to be the longest seven days ever!”  I shiver.

 

LILAH’S – AN HOUR LATER

 

DEBS

 

Michael wisely spent most of the day as far away from me as possible!  I didn’t say anything to anyone but it seems that Tyler, another Michael fan, has made sure everyone knows and they have been giving him a slightly cold shoulder.

 

“Morning grandma!”  Gus clambers onto the seat next to me.  “Momma and Bumpy have gotten bigger, look!”

 

I watch Mel wander to the table and she does look a bit bigger.  “Thank you Gus.”  She grins.

 

He peers round her and smiles.  “Momma, can Uncle Carl sit next to me please?”

 

Everyone but Brian, Ted and Michael arrive at the same time.

 

“Brian and Ted are in the business centre.”  Ems explains their absence and I nod.

 

“Well then, I think that in his stead, his mini-me should be the head of the table. It’s only right.”  Carl decides.

 

Gus looks confused.  “Grandma, why aren’t we sitting down?  And what’s a stead?”

 

“A stead.”  Carl hunkers down so he’s at his level.  “That’s someone who takes the place of someone who is not here, like your daddy.  So because your daddy is not here, you should sit in his place because you are being him for breakfast.”

 

Gus thinks for a minute.  “So I sit where daddy sits?”  Carl nods and we move so that he can scramble to seat.

 

Vic clears his throat and bows.  “Now my liege, pray tell where shall your subjects sit?”

 

“Uncle Vic, you’re talking funny.”  Gus giggles.

 

“What’s so funny?”  Michael’s arrival causes a drop in the atmosphere.

 

“King Gus is addressing his subjects and we are waiting for him to bestow his seating orders.”  Vic explains.  “My liege, please proceed.”

 

“Liege?   Is that me?”  Gus asks and Vic nods.  “Okay so grandma sits here.  Then Uncle Carl on my other side.”  He pauses.  “Momma next to grandma and Auntie Emmy next to Uncle Carl.  Um…Uncle Rodney next to Auntie Emmy and Uncle Vic next to Momma and then Unca Mikey can sit next to Uncle Rodney…”

 

RODNEY

 

“Ooh lucky me.”  I mutter as I take my seat.

 

Michael virtually ignores me as he sits down and that’s perfectly fine.  Vic has been filling me in on the Brian and Michael relationship. I can’t believe that the idiot still thinks he has a chance with Brian considering he never even tried to finish that long-forgotten-by-anyone-but-the-whiner handjob.  

 

And now there’s the little matter of Justin.  Everyone but Michael has noticed their increasing closeness.  When he’s been genuflecting about Brian and his previous conquests, Michael always seems to preen about the fact that the guys are always dark haired and dark eyes…as if he thinks that Brian is trying to fuck him out of his system…

 

“Ohmygod.”  I gasp as that realisation hits me.  That’s exactly what he thinks!

 

“Rodney, are you okay?”  Vic asks concerned

 

I nod.  “I’ll explain to you later.”  I reassure him.

 

“Morning all.”  Ted joins us smiling and he’s with a statuesque woman.  “Allow me to introduce you to Bella. She’s working closely with Brian and myself on the pitch.  So Bella, this is Mel, she’s Gus’s mom, Carl, you know Gus, that’s Debs his grandma, Vic who is Debs’ brother, you know that reprobate that is Emmy, this is Rodney and where’s Michael?  I could have sworn I just saw him.”

 

MICHAEL

 

When I saw Ted and the bitch approaching, I went to bar because quite frankly I don’t want to talk to either of them. But then I realised that this meant that Brian would be unguarded so I head to the business centre.

 

BUSINESS CENTRE, BUSINESS ROOM 1

 

BRIAN

 

I watch the video once more and look at the photos and they look hot.  I think the nightclub photos need cleaning up a bit.  We’re going to shoot the video in the nightclub in a few hours.  I am so engrossed in looking at the photos that I don’t hear the door open.

 

“Hi Brian.”  Michael’s voice grates on my nerves as I’m still not ready to speak to him yet.

 

“What are you doing here?”  I demand.

 

“I wanted to see you.  I haven’t seen you for a while.”

 

“I’ve been avoiding you.”  I carry on doing what I’m doing.

 

“Why?  Is this still about Gus?”  He asks and I take a couple of calming breaths.

 

“Yes it’s still about Gus!  You hurt my son Michael and…”

 

“Well you hurt me too! You know when you threw my stuff out of the window. They were important to me!”

 

I whirl round and face who I thought was my friend and an uncle to Gus.  “Are you seriously comparing the loss of your comics and toys to the trauma your thoughtlessness caused to my son?”

 

“No of course not, but you didn’t have to do that.”

 

“And you shouldn’t have done it in the first place! You’re fucking lucky it wasn’t you that went sailing head-first into the water followed by those trash-rags!  You don’t allow kids that age in your store and to this very second, you’ve not even said you’re sorry!”

 

“I said I won’t do it again!”  He protests.

 

“Not the same as apologizing!”  I bark at him.

 

“Okay I’m sorry Brian that…”

 

“Get out Michael!  I’m busy and don’t have time for your stupidity!”

 

“You heard him Michael.  Get out!”  Ted orders.

 

He looks between the two of us before stomping out.

 

MICHAEL

 

I storm up back to the bar only to find that it’s locked up.

 

“Why is the bar closed?”  I ask a passing guy.

 

“Video shoot for later.”

 

“Thanks.”  I call out as he continues walking.

 

I decide to walk around trying to clear my head.  I can’t believe how Brian is being about this.  I find myself standing next to a group of men chattering excitedly and decide to listen in.

 

“I can’t wait.  I can’t believe I got chosen.  So looking forward to it!”  One says.

 

“I know right!  Which did you get?”

 

“The wine galley, which is tomorrow.  What about you?”

 

“Nightclub and that’s today!  Beat you bitch!”  He shoves his friend.

 

“Rumour has it that the guy who is in charge of the shoot is the winner of the cruise.  Oh shit, we’d better get going! We need to be smooth in time for hair and make-up.  Emmy can be such a meanie!”  The guy actually fucking giggles. He’s six foot and built like a barn for fuck sake.  “But sweet as a lamb!”

 

Oh this is ridiculous!  Brian is going to be busy again!  How the fuck can he make his behaviour up to me if he’s busy with this shit?!

 

As I glower across the deck, I spot Gold and he doesn’t look happy.  I can’t help but sneer at him and click my fingers to get his attention.

 

“Can I help you sir?”  He smiles tightly at me.

 

“I would like a glass of your finest beer in a chilled glass.”

 

“I bet that’s not all you’d like!”  He mutters.

 

“What’s that supposed to mean?”  I snap.

 

“Oh please, I know a puppy dog please love me look when I see it!”  He sneers back. “I heard what happened with his kid and you.  How was that time out for you?”

 

I feel my face flush.

 

“Now excuse me sir, let me get your drink.”  He smiles and then walks off. I glare at his retreating back and then notice he has dropped his swipe card, so pick it up.

 

“Oh you fucker, let’s see what I can do with this.”  I smirk to myself.

 

NIGHTCLUB SHOOT – TWO HOURS LATER

 

BRIAN

 

We’ve almost got this perfect but it’s missing something.  Emmy and I exchange looks. The guys look hot, the music is pumping but it still looks a little off.

 

“What is it?  Why doesn’t it feel quite right?”  I watch the video again and sigh.

 

“I don’t know.  Maybe change the music?”  Emmy suggests.

 

“Hi guys!”  Justin calls out as he comes in looking delicious.  “Wow this looks great…okay what’s up?”  He looks between the pair of us.

 

“What’s up is that this is just not working.”  Emmy points at the screen and we play it again and he frowns.

 

“It looks a little, um too sexual.”  Justin bites his lip.

 

“Too sexual?!  There is no such thing as too sexual when it comes to selling sex!”  Ted scoffs.

 

“True.  But hear me out. It doesn’t have to be so in your face to have the same impact this time.  All we’re seeing here is how hot everything is, which is great. But some people do actually come to a nightclub to dance with the person that they came on the cruise with.  Show the sexy side but show the loving side too. This is a gay family friendly ship; that’s the demographic not represented here. The actual friends and lovers!”

 

We just look at him in astonishment.   

 

“That’s it, that’s exactly what is wrong!”  I exclaim.  “Ted how much time do we have for today?”

 

He winces.  “For a complete reshoot?  Not really enough.  If we can get some guys dressed in…”

 

“No, wait…”  Bella interrupts and pulls out her phone. “Blake, can you get down here now?  Thanks doll.”  She then puts in another call.  “Tyler, can you get here with Marcus?”

 

“Uh Bella sweetie…”  Emmy begins, which saves me from asking.

 

“It will take too long…”  She turns to look at me.  “And you two!  Emmy get them to hair and make-up!”

 

“No!”  Justin and I shout at the same time.

 

“Emmy Lou... first and you know this, I can’t dance!”  I point out.  “And secondly, I’m shooting this thing!”

 

“Hmm, he does raise valid points. Trust me on the first one!  Which is kind of amazing consid...”

 

“Yeah but generally Bri, you’re not actually moving.”  Ted points out hurriedly cutting off Em’s innuendo, to my relief and undying gratitude. He looks over and beams as Blake comes scurrying in followed quickly by Tyler and I presume Marcus.

 

“Schmidt not helping!”  I grouse.

 

“No-no-no, Teddy that’s perfect, come-come you lot!”

 

Within half an hour, we are all on the dance floor.

 

“Ooh my first video shoot!”  Emmy cries.  “Now I want you to get up close to your partner and basically move to the beat like you mean it.  Is that what you had in mind Justin?”

 

“Yeah-yeah, that’s what I meant.”  He mutters going pink.

 

“Okay cue the music!”  Emmy cries and I want to kill him!

 

As the beat pumps, Justin giggles.  “Oh you really can’t dance, can you?”

 

“Nope.  I just generally hold the guy to me and let them lead.  I can kinda follow but leave me to my own devices…”  I trail off.

 

“For goodness sake Brian, dance like you would in Babylon!”  Emmy instructs as we have to start again.

 

“Someone is getting too big for his britches!”  I mutter.

 

“Come on Mr Ad man, let me show you how to groove.”  Justin smiles and he loops his arms around my neck.  “No tickling.”  He warns me as my arms slip around his waist.

 

“Cue the music…again!”  Emmy calls out, poking his tongue at me.

 

As the music starts, Justin kicks my legs a bit wider so that he can get closer. Then he starts to move his hips and I follow his lead. “This might not have been the best idea.”  He mutters, breathing hard.

 

“You think!”  I hiss back but can’t help it when my hands slide to his ass.  “Sorry!”

 

“No it’s fine, I think.  Let me just think of Mort!”  He sighs and I can’t help it, the question is out before I can stop myself…

 

“Mort? Who the hell is Mort?”

 

He grins at me.  “Calm yourself.  He’s the lemur in the Madagascar movies and he’s cute. If I think of cute, I can’t be thinking about how good your hands feel on my ass.  Mort-Mort-Mort!”

 

“I don’t want you to think I’m a jealous type of guy.”  I whisper and he looks up at me, all big blue eyes dancing with laughter.

 

“Shame that, I rather like it.”

 

“Shut up twat and let’s keep moving.”

 

“ONCE AGAIN GUYS CUT!!”  Bella shouts.

 

We stop and look round; we’re the only ones on the floor!

 

“How was that?”  I clear my throat.

 

“Well not as good for us as it was for you two!”  Bella giggles.

 

“Let’s go and get changed then watch the video.”  I order and drag him off the dance floor.

 

DRESSING ROOM

 

JUSTIN

 

We just stare at each other.  “Okay we’re not invoking, right?”  Brian asks and I nod.

 

We start to get changed in silence but it’s when he unzips his pants to tuck in his shirt, I groan inwardly. He’s gone commando!

 

“What?”  He looks at me, smirking.

 

“Bastard!”  I mutter and stomp out with his laughter ringing in my ears.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – LATE EVENING

 

BALCONY

 

BRIAN

 

I have turned off every light so I am enjoying the coolness and darkness.  Today was a good day. We managed to get all three shots done.  Tomorrow is the last day of videoing and that’s the gallery. I can’t help but laugh at the indignant expression on Justin’s face when we were getting changed. His ass bounces deliciously when he stomps off!

 

I chuckle reading the last text from Justin.  I decide to head to bed but because of the darkness in my suite I notice the feet outside the door and text Justin to ask if he has temporarily resigned.  But he says no, as he’s tired.  Then I freeze as that persistent knocking starts.

 

For fuck sake, why doesn't he get it?!

 

Stalking to the door, I wrench it open.  “Mi…”

 

“Now we’re even!”  Justin grins and then runs down back the corridor giggling.

 

“Twat!”  I whisper loudly and go to bed chuckling.

 

 

CHAPTER 13 – SABOTAGE, FOOT MASSAGE AND BETRAYAL

 

DAY 19 [2 DAYS BEFORE PITCH] – EARLY MORNING

 

BUSINESS CENTRE, BUSINESS ROOM 1

 

CYNTHIA

 

I got here earlier because quite frankly I wanted to top up my tan!  For the last five days, we’ve been working flat out. When I saw the outtake from the nightclub shoot, I just thought it was adorable, especially when they were in a little world of their own.

 

But the one fly in the ointment has been poor Gus getting sick.  He ate something that really didn’t agree with him and has been in the infirmary for the last three days.  Brian is really worrying, but the family knowing how important this pitch is, have rallied around him. He’s been FaceTiming with him so that has made things a bit easier. Gus has been asking for Rhubarb and Custard but they’re not allowed in there, so he’s been a miserable little boy.

 

He doesn’t know I’m here and the times he’s run full pelt into my office when he’s come to Kinnetic always carrying a flower, I think it’s only fair that I repay the favour.

 

INFIRMARY

 

DEBS

 

Thank God that Gus is a lot better now!  Everyone in the Kids Club sent him cards and have been FaceTiming with him while he’s been in bed. So sweet; that’s kept him happy,

 

But sadly, the one thing that has devastated him above all else is that he’s lost Leather Bear.  We tore the suites apart trying to find him but we can’t. Brian has promised to get him another bear, but we all know it’s not the same.

 

“Now where’s my flower Gus?”  Cynthia’s voice has him looking up in surprise and he almost launches himself from the bed.

 

“Cyn!  Cyn!”  He shouts, holding her tightly as she had to run to catch him. “I’m so happy to see you!”

 

“I’m happy to see you too G-Man.  How you feeling?”

 

“I lost Leather Bear.”  He sighs sadly.  “Daddy said he’s gonna get me a new one but he knowed all my secrets.  You don’t think he’d tell anyone, do you?”

 

“Oh honey no.  Leather Bear will never betray you. He will keep quiet.”

 

For the first time since he lost him, he smiles.  “No Leather Bear wouldn’t do that.”

 

LILAH’S BAR

 

MICHAEL

 

I can’t believe I haven’t fucking seen Brian for the last five fucking days!  And everyone on this fucking boat has seen him but me, his best friend!

 

“Mr Novotny, how are you?”  Gold’s voice grates on my nerves.

 

“What do you want?”  I sneer.

 

“I was merely making polite conversation. Did you enjoy the shoots?”  He asks. “I loved being in the winery one.  Although, it took a long longer than we thought it would but we got to eat afterwards. The food his friend Emmett prepared was exquisite. Oh excuse me, I have to see to my passenger.”  He smirks and walks off.

 

Before I can retort, he’s gone.  But then Ted and Emmett come in and go to our table.  So I join them.

 

“Hi Michael, how have you been?”  Ted asks.

 

“Fine.  Where’s Brian? Is he finally finished?”  I demand.

 

“Strung out.  Between the pitch of his life and Gus being poorly, he’s knackered.  But at least Gus is out today.  That’s one load off his mind.  And…”

 

“Em-Ems, Teddy!  You’re needed!”  Some random guy interrupts and they are gone.

 

DAY 20 – EARLY AFTERNOON

 

BUSINESS SUITE, BOARDROOM 1

 

BELLA

 

Silence. Complete and utter silence. Brian looks gut shot.  Veri is carefully picking her way through the debris of the boardroom.  Ted and Cyn are trying to see what they can salvage.

 

Franc comes in absolutely incandescent!  “Gold.  Gold did this!”

 

“Honey, slow ya roll!  We need to fix this first!”  Veri halts the fireball that is her daughter.  “Is anything salvageable?”

 

“No.”  Brian whispers.

 

“Hey-hey are we all…what the fuck happened?!”  Emmy screams.

 

“Emmy!  What’s wrong?!”  Justin runs in and stops cold.  “What…”

 

“It’s fucking over!  We can’t save this!  It’s fucking over!”  Brian shouts.

 

“Brian…”  Justin starts.

 

“Can you just go with the videos if I explain?”  Veri tries.

 

“No!  We need the boards.  The videos aren’t enough and your husband knows that!”

 

“Brian, calm down.”  Ted’s voice is firm and he takes a couple of breaths.  “At least let her try.”

 

“Brian…”  Justin tries again.

 

“But they were fucking perfect!  We spent hours getting them just right and that fucker just comes in…”

 

“Less talk; more fixing!”  Cyn tells him firmly.  “There must be something, anything that we can do to recreate them?”

 

“SHUT THE FUCK UP AND LISTEN!”  Justin yells, silencing the room.

 

“What can you possibly say that is going to fix this?”  Brian looks near tears.

 

“I have duplicates of the boards in my quarters. I thought it might be a good idea to do another set. So I did one when you finally said yes.  All we need to do is set up somewhere else, like the wine gallery.”

 

First, there was silence before the room erupts in screams and shouts of relief.

 

BRIAN

 

I can’t believe it.  It’s still on.  “Everyone quiet!”  I yell and breathe again.  “Cyn, Bella go with Justin to get the boards. Ted, Emmy and Franc, go set up the wine gallery.  Veri, can you handle the board.  A-and…”  I can feel the tears clogging my throat but I swallow them down.  “And I’ll see you in the gallery in a few minutes.”

 

I watch them leave as the door closes I sink my head into my hands and take steadying breaths.  “You got this.  Because of him, you got this.”  I clear my throat and crick my neck.

 

When I turn around, I’m surprised to find Vic in the doorway.  “Ted called, said you need a hug.”  I just nod and he pulls me into his arms.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – EARLY EVENING

 

BRIAN

 

I am bone tired.  But we’ve been over the pitch four times and it’s perfect.  All I want to do is lie down and sleep for about a year!

 

I open the door and Debs is bustling around the lounge.  “Uh Debs.”

 

“Shut up and sit.”  She orders.

 

“Look Debs, I need…”  I begin.

 

“I have the one thing you need.”  She tells me and opens the connecting door.

 

“Daddy!”  Gus screams. I just about open my arms in time as his full weight knocks me onto the sofa.

 

“Gus!  Look at you!  You look so much better!”  I almost blubber like the mother of the bride!

 

“Yes, so much and guessed what?!”  He cries almost strangling me.

 

He can have that one mispronunciation!

 

“What?”  I manage to gasp out.

 

“I found Leather Bear!  Momma, can you bring Leather Bear!”

 

“Yes I’m coming, I’m coming!”  Mel laughs.

 

“Thank you momma. Oh wait, momma, you said that earlier to Miss Leda. What were you bringing her?”  Gus asks as the room goes dead silent and Mel and Leda go bright red.

 

Wow!

 

“Momma?  What were you bringing her?”  Gus asks again hugging Leather Bear.

 

“Yes Mel, want to explain that one away?”  I smirk as she doesn’t say a word.

 

“Gus, sweetie, um…”  Emmy Lou tries.

 

“Well uh…”  Debs attempts.

 

“Gus.”  Carl gets down on his haunches.  “You’re too young to know the answer to that question. Just know that it made momma happy and leave it there.  Okay?”

 

Gus thinks for a few minutes before looking at Mel. “You were happy, momma?”

 

“Yes Gus, I was.”  Mel grins

 

“Okay then.” He smiles. “Now daddy, tell me how you think your bitch is going to go?  And do you need Leather Bear for good luck?”

 

The room rocks with laughter.

 

Yeah, he can have that one too!

 

PITCH DAY – WINE GALLERY – LATE MORNING

 

TED

 

Here comes the Board.  Brian clears his throat and grins.

 

“Good morning gentlemen. My name is Brian Kinney, this is my CFO, Ted Schmidt and COO, Cynthia Moore. And we’re going to introduce Seabird Cruises to the world…”

 

For the next four hours, Brian works his magic and I watch in awe.  It’s not often I get to sit in with him and do a pitch but he’s a force to be reckoned with.  Yesterday when we thought we had lost everything because of Ethan Gold, he was so broken. It’s not that we needed the business because we’re set for life. It’s just that he wanted it so badly.

 

Ems has come into his own.  Between him and Franc, they have created such incredible food. When we had a break for lunch, the board could not stop raving.

 

We watch them watch the videos; the boards Justin did impressed them to no end!  The fishing video has Ray bug-eyed and squirming. But most of all, we’re watching his dad. The nightclub video has his father’s head bopping. Veri and Ben in the gallery has him slowly nodding. The Kids Club has him with, as Brian would say it, a sappy expression on his face but it’s the reaction to the videos with Franc that surprise me.  He looks so proud.

 

We’re about to show him the beach deck video when he holds up a hand. “Mr Kinney, you say you can increase our market share by 15% within 3 years?”

 

“Yes, we can.”

 

“Raymond, what do you think?”  He asks his son.

 

“It’s great. It really is but to be honest... I really prefer what Gardner has done for us. Yes, the market share isn’t there right now, but it will be. He’s got new ideas…”

 

He leans back and nods.

 

Fuck!

 

“Rupert. Vance has been promising us that for years. You had to threaten to pull his contract to get him to do the competition. And that was Franc’s idea! You can’t seriously…”

 

“Veri, darling.” Raymond drawls. “This is business and you’re not on the board. You had your chance to be but you declined. So although you get a say, you don’t get a vote.”

 

“Raymond, adjust your tone.” Rupert’s cold eyes rest on his son. “And your outlook. Mr Kinney, well done. Has someone got a pen?”

 

A pen!

 

“Dad! You can’t be serious?” Raymond gasps.

 

“Yes I am.” He replies, signing with a flourish. “And since you and Vance are such good buddies, you get to soothe his ruffled ego when you hand him the termination notice. Now be quiet for the rest of this conversation!”

 

He stands up and strides towards us. “15%. You’ve got some balls!  Look forward to working with you, Mr Kinney!”

 

“Brian. Please call me Brian.” He is holding onto his professional demeanour for all he’s worth.

 

“Brian it is.” He grins at him. “And I can call you Ted and Cynthia. Cynthia, will you be joining us on the island?”

 

“RUPERT!”  “DAD!”  Veri and Franc shout together.

 

Rupert goes bright red. “Ah.  You said not to say anything until the day after the pitch and after Veri had told them, didn’t you?”

 

“Yeah.”  Veri sighs.  “What am I going to do with you?”  She grouses with a smile.

 

“Sorry darling.  But you might as well tell them about the…”

 

“Rupert, one more word and I’m never doing that thing you like ever again!”

 

“I shall let Veri tell you the rest in her own time.”

 

“Thank you darling.”

 

“So, are we done?”  Franc smirks and then grabs Brian in for a hug.  “I knew you could do it!  I knew it!”

 

“Bella, can you come in please?”  Veri calls out and smiles as her friend enters.

 

“Well?”  She demands but then bursts into tears when she sees our faces.  “You did it?!  You did it, didn’t you?!”

 

“Yes!”  I shout.  “We did it!”

 

When we’ve all calmed down, Franc clears her throat.  “Right now, we have to deal with the other problem that presented itself yesterday.  The vandalism.”

 

“Vandalism? What vandalism?” Rupert asks.

 

“It seems that Ethan Gold came in to the business centre last night and trashed the boards for the presentation.”

 

“Ethan?!  Ethan wouldn’t do that.”  Ray defends his boy.

 

“Didn’t you hear me say seems?”  Franc growls. “I’ve been looking through his records and I found some interesting things…”

 

“Like?”  Brian demands.

 

“Well it’s what I didn’t find. The band violation wasn’t there.  Nor was the other write-up that I know he had. So it leads me to ask a question?” She takes a deep breath and rubs her temple before turning to Ray.  “Does Ethan have your code?”

 

“Ethan wouldn’t…”  Ray blusters.

 

“Yes or no?  Does he have it?!”  She shouts.

 

“Yes.”

 

“Jesus, Ray!”  She retorts.  “Seriously, is he that good of a fuck?!  Oh wait!  He’s not fucked you!”

 

“Franc.”  Rupert admonishes her.  “Calm yourself.  What are you saying?”

 

“By having the code, he can change the records.” Bella sighs. “Which goes some way to explaining why he’s still here!”

 

“But like I said, I did find something interesting. He also has a swipe card and a band.”  Franc is still glowering at Ray.

 

“Franc.  Focus on me.”  She turns to her mother.  “What does that mean?”

 

“Only senior staff members have a card and a band. He’s been using his band since he issued himself one, but he’s not wearing it, as that would’ve been picked up in seconds.  So why use his card to get in here to trash the boardroom? It doesn’t make fucking sense. As loathed as I am to say this, I think someone has his card and used it to set him up.”

 

“Are you kidding me?!”  I gasp and she shakes her head.

 

“The only person that wants him onboard this ship is Ray.” Franc glares again at her stepbrother. “Ethan is arrogant and mouthy. Unfortunately, he also has Ray wrapped around his little finger, which he uses to lord over everyone. So we are looking at a lot of people.”

 

“Does anyone else on board know about what happened in the business centre?” Rupert asks.

 

“No. It would’ve been around the ship in seconds if they had.”  Bella responds and we all look at her. “This has been one of the best cruises ever. If anyone else knew, everyone involved would’ve been in here trying to help.”

 

“They would?”  Brian looks confused.  “Why?”

 

“Because they like you.”  Bella giggles.

 

“Oh.”  He looks so pleased and humbled.

 

“Let’s keep it that way.” Rupert orders before turning to his son. “You are an idiot and have compromised the integrity of this ship.  Franc, lock him out of the system.”

 

“Dad!”  Ray objects.

 

“Be quiet! We will discuss what else happens to you when we get back home.”

 

“I just don’t know who would do this. Are you sure it’s not him?” Brian asks. “I mean, he must have been pretty pissed after that flea in his ear?”

 

“I’m sure. He’s pissed but he’s not stupid. He’s done everything with his records to stay on the ship. I don’t know who did it, but I’m sure as fuck going to find out. And when I do, I will destroy them!”  Franc growls.  “Nobody hurts my friends.”

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – AN HOUR LATER

 

LOUNGE

 

MICHAEL

 

We’re waiting for Brian to come back. It’s been ages! Although we’re still not back to where we were before I upset Gus, we have at least started to talk more. But only because I said sorry to Gus. I’m so glad this pitch thing is over so we can get back to being on holiday again.

 

As they come through the door, Gus runs to him.  “Daddy! How did it go?”

 

He sighs and then clears his throat. “That double kiss from you and Leather Bear must have done the trick because they said yes.”

 

“Oh kiddo! I am so pleased!” Ma yells and before anyone else can get to them, she crushes both him and Gus in a hug.

 

“Sis!  For goodness sake, let them breathe!”  Uncle Vic laughs and pries her arms off of them.

 

“Thanks Vic!”  Brian gasps.

 

“I’m so proud of you son. I really am.” Uncle Vic tells him and then turns to Emmett.  “Any leftovers?”

 

“But of course!”  Emmett replies after he wrestles himself out of Ma’s arms. “Tyler is bringing them up but first, libations!”

 

“Hey Brian. I’m really pleased for you.” I tell him as I get to him. “You must be so relieved, you know after what…”

 

“Yeah. Thanks. It’s been a rough few days.  But it’s done.” He sighs and rubs the back of his neck. “It’s done.”

 

“And we can get back to being on holiday now!”  I tell him smiling.

 

“Mmmm.” He takes the glass of Beam from Emmett and knocks it back in one go. “We get a few days respite before the real work begins.”

 

What?!

 

“What do you mean?” I’m really trying hard not to be snippy. “You’ve got the contract. What more needs to be done?”

 

“Um, legal needs to look at it and stuff like that. But like I said, we’ve got some free time and that won’t happen until we get back from the island.”

 

“What island?”  I ask.

 

“Oh something Franc’s mom has organised. Think it’s part of the prize.  I almost…”

 

“Daddy look!”  Gus tugs on his pants and I want to scream in frustration at the interruption.

 

“What is it Sonny Boy?”  He kneels down in front of Gus.

 

“My feet, look at my feet!”  He jumps up and down.

 

“Gus, I can’t look at your feet if you don’t keep still.” Brian laughs and Gus stops bouncing and puts his foot out.  “Oh now, that’s interesting. When did that happen?”

 

“Today in Kids Club. Chandra said that she got it done in the spa and I asked Mr Justin if I could get mine done. He said that I couldn’t go to the spa but he could paint them for me.  Then the whole class wanted them done and we all have pretty toenails.”  Now everyone is looking at Gus’s toes. “But Mr Justin only did mine.”  He looks so proud.

 

I think a word with Mr Justin needs to be had I won’t have my future stepson’s toenails painted!

 

“He did? Well I think I should go and thank Mr Justin for that, but not before we take a picture of them.  Now put Leather Bear between your feet.”

 

My eyes almost roll to the back of my head when picture after picture is taken. There’s a knock at the door and Tyler comes in with the most delicious looking food; I start to help myself...at least Brian’s here now so we can chat properly later.

 

BRIAN

 

I sink back into the sofa and smile somewhat tiredly at Ted, who looks as wrung out as I do.

 

“Listen guys, you carry on. I’ve got to speak to someone and then I’m going to have a nap.”

 

“Sure kiddo.” Debs smiles and gives me another kiss. “Okay people, let’s take this next door!  You want me to set you up a plate and leave it in the fridge?” I nod and haul my ass up off the sofa. “Go do what you need to do. I’ll hang the sign on your door… you need sleep!”

 

“Thanks.”

 

QUARTERDECK F, SUITE A

 

JUSTIN

 

I’m pacing. I just want to know what happened. When the door knocks, I almost rip the door off its hinges before pulling him inside.

 

“Well?!”  I demand.

 

“You painted my son’s toes?”  He tilts his head to one side.

 

“BRIAN!”  I yell.

 

“Calm down little kitten.  We got it.”

 

“You did!  Seriously, you did!”  I scream and fling my arms around his neck, wrapping my legs around his waist, immediately peppering his face with kisses. But then, I take a good look at him.  “You look beat.”

 

“Thanks. You’re the second person to say this in the space of less than an hour.” He grumps.

 

“Walk us to the sofa.”  I order and he plops me down before sitting next to me.

 

“Lilah’s?” He asks, looking around the room. I frown and then realise he’s asking about Rhubarb and Custard so I nod.

 

“Don’t move from there but take off your shoes and socks.”

 

He does as he’s told and watches as I fill a bowl full of water. I go to the cabinet to get something else.  

 

“What are you doing?”

 

“Getting what I need.”  I call back and 5 minutes later, I’m back and start rolling up his trousers.

Although he frowns, he doesn’t stop me. “Put your feet in.”  I order and start adding the oils.

 

“Smells nice.”  He tries to peer at the bottles.  “What’s in there?  Smells like mint.”

 

“That’s one of them, now sit back.”  He does so with a huffing breath. “Do you have ticklish feet?”

 

“No.  Why do you need to…oh.”  He groans as I start to massage the back of his calf.

 

I repeat the massaging action on his other calf and apply some oil.

 

BRIAN

 

Holy fuck that feels so good!

 

He’s scrubbed my feet. He actually scrubbed my feet! They feel so smooth! Then he dried them with a big fluffy towel and gave me a pedicure! Now he’s pressing my feet and when he does, I feel tingles in another part of my body.

 

“What are you…oooh….doing?”  I gasp as the base of my spine feels funny…in a good way.

 

“Reflexology.  They say that certain places on your feet, if pressed and manipulated just right…”

 

“Oh God!”  I moan.

 

“Release tension in other parts of the body. For example, if I press here, like that, it’s supposed to help the headache I saw in your eyes.”

 

He presses firmly and it may be psychosomatic but I do feel my headache slipping away.  For the next hour, I am squirming on the sofa as he does wonderful things with my feet.

 

“Justin, Justin stop!”  I beg as whatever he’s pressing on is making me cross-eyed!

 

He giggles and I want to kiss the hell out of him! He takes the stuff away, giving me some respite so I can take in some air.

 

“You okay?”  He grins when he comes back and sits next to me. I snicker and then yawn hugely.

 

“I better get going. I really do need to sleep.”  I admit.

 

“Yeah you do.  Come on.”

 

He pulls me to my feet and I frown.  “Justin, I need my shoes and socks.”  I point out.

 

“No you don’t.”  He leads me to his bedroom and pulls back the quilt.  “Sit down…”

 

“Justin.”  I protest but don’t stop him from unbuttoning my shirt and taking it off.

 

“Lie down.”  He orders and I just flopped backwards.  “Nice boxers.”  He giggles.

 

“Shut up.”  I mumble sleepily.

 

“Swing in.” He swats my legs gently and once I’m settled under the quilt on my side, he kisses the side of my head.  “Now sleep.”

 

“Not without you.  Come on, get in.  I’m too tired to take advantage of you.”

 

He strips down but keeps his boxers on. As he slides in next to me, I’m reminded of the fishing trip and pull him back tighter to me.

 

“Justin?”

 

 

“Hmm?”

 

“Apparently, we’re going to an island as part of the prize. Will you come with us?  Not only because you earned it but... because I want you to?”

 

He turns to face me.  “You do?”

 

“Yeah.  So you’ll come?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“And, can you paint my toenails as a surprise for Gus, so we match?”  I yawn again.

 

“Yes.  Now come on, sleep.”

 

“Yes sir.”  I mumble and snuggle into the pillow while he snuggles into my chest.

 

Before I finally go to sleep, I hear the door open then close. Then I feel a thump and hear the purr that could only be Custard.

 

DAY 22 – LATE MORNING

 

JUSTIN’S QUARTERS

 

BRIAN

 

The first thing I realise is that whoever is lying next to me it is not Justin. He’s much too hairy!

 

I open my eyes and it’s Custard. He blinks slowly at me. “Morning.” I get a head bump in return.

 

The second thing I realise is the time, it’s gone eleven!  I sit up and look around the room. I mean, really look. His artwork is incredible! He has drawn Rhubarb and Custard and they look so life like. I spot one when they were kittens and the awww is out before I can stop it.

 

Out of the corner of my eye, I spot my phone is flashing. But when I see it’s a message from Michael, I ignore it. I head to the kitchen to make some coffee. They really look after their staff here so I can see why Gold would want to stay. Padding to the bathroom, I smile when I spot the toothbrush he left out.

 

Once I inhale the coffee, I search for my clothes. He had hung them up. My phone ringing causes my heart to sink but it’s Ted so I hit speaker.

 

“Hey what’s up?”

 

“You okay Bri?  I’m outside your door.”

 

“I’m not in there.” I pause. “I slept, and I do mean slept, at Justin’s last night. I woke up about half an hour ago.”

 

“You too!  I slept in Blake’s and judging by that grin…hey Ems…Ems was with Ben.  Don’t do coy with me; I know you too well!  Do you want me to get Tyler to let me in so I can pack a bag and get him to bring it down?"

 

I sink back down on the bed and think for a bit.

 

“Bri?”

 

“Yeah, but I need the Seabird documents and stuff too. So just a pair of jeans…in fact, let me to talk to Emmy.”

 

When I finish with him, I send a text to Justin and then burrow back under the quilt.

 

TWO HOURS LATER

 

JUSTIN

 

I open the door and let Gus in.  Brian is at the desk, working on something.

 

“Daddy!”  Gus gasps and runs to him. “What are you doing here? Mr Justin said he had a surprise for me…”  He turns to face me. “Mr Justin, I get to see my daddy every day. He’s not that big a surprise.”

 

“Thanks, I think, Sonny Boy.”  He ruffles his hair smiling. He looks so much better.

 

“You made yourself at home, I see.” I tease him, nodding at his change of clothes and he pokes his tongue out.

 

“Daddy, why are you here?”  Gus looks up from petting Rhubarb.

 

“Do you like your toenails?” Brian asks him.

 

“Yes!  I love them!  I wish Leather Bear had toenails so he could have them too.”

 

“What about if I have mine done and you help Mr Justin?”  He asks.

 

“We’d have the same pictures on our toes, daddy?” He looks delighted when Brian nods.  “Yes!  Yes!  Now Rhubarb, you and Leather Bear sit right here.  And daddy, you have to keep very still, doesn’t he Mr Justin?”

 

“Yes he does. What will happen is that I will do one toe and you copy as best you can.  Okay?”

 

Gus nods enthusiastically and for the next 90 minutes, we carefully paint his toenails while he works.

 

GUS – FOUR HOURS LATER

 

I have loved today! We had Kids Club and then we came here and painted daddy’s toes, but it was when I woke up from my nap that I was so happy!  Daddy and Mr Justin were kissing!  I knowed that daddy kisses Unca Mikey but he’s been kissing Mr Justin, like forever! And daddy doesn’t push Mr Justin away when he stops kissing him like he does to Unca Mikey.  And he’s smiling! I love it when my daddy smiles. And he has a really smiley face for Mr Justin!

 

Uncle Teddy and Uncle Blake came down to have dinner with us, so he and daddy could talk about stuff. After another lot of kisses with Mr Justin... well I’m thinking that’s what happened because I had to wait outside with Uncle Ted and Uncle Blake, we’re all going back to our rooms now.

 

“Daddy.  I really liked today, did you?”

 

“Yes Gus, I did. It was just what I needed.”

 

“What was what you needed?”  I ask him, skipping with Leather Bear.

 

“I have been very busy with work and worrying about you when you were poorly.  I got a little stressed out.  But now everything is better.”

 

“Good.  Can I press the button daddy?”

 

“Yes, you can press the button to our floor.”

 

When we get inside, I ask Uncle Teddy to hold Leather Bear while I press the button but when we get to the suite Uncle Teddy wants to keep Leather Bear.

 

“Just for a few minutes, I need to speak to your daddy about him and I will give him straight back.  I promise.”

 

I nod and go to my room.  I believe Uncle Ted because he holds Leather Bear properly unlike Unca Mikey.

 

BRIAN’S LOUNGE

 

TED

 

I make sure the door is closed and then hand Brian Leather Bear.  “What?”  He frowns

 

“Look in the pocket.”

 

As he looks in he sees what I saw.  A swipe card.  “Are you saying that Justin…”

 

“God no! Bri, he likes you too much to do that!”  I exhort.  “But whoever found Leather Bear put that card in the pocket. We need to call Franc.”

 

Twenty minutes later, Franc is in with her machine. “Well that’s odd. It’s Michael’s card.”  She balls her fists.  “Okay we need to talk to your wee man.”

 

GUS’S ROOM

 

BRIAN

 

Gus was just putting Leather Bear in his corner when we came in.

 

“Gus, where did you find Leather Bear?”  I ask him.

 

“I didn’t.  I came back from the hospital and he was there on my bed.”  He replies.

 

“When was that?”

 

“The day before your bit…I mean pitch.”  He giggles.

 

“And when on that day, did you come back here?”  Ted asks him calmly.

 

Gus frowns and thinks. “Well grandma and everyone came to get me and then we were waiting for you.”

 

“Who’s everyone?” I want to scream but now, I have to go carefully.

 

“Uncle Vic, Uncle Rodney, Uncle Carl, Momma and Miss Leda.”

 

“Great thank you Gus. You’ve done very well.”  I kiss him on his head and he snuggles down under his blankets.

 

We head back to the lounge having gotten nowhere.

 

BRIAN’S LOUNGE

 

BRIAN

 

“So much for…”

 

“Daddy.” Gus comes in. “I remembered something. Unca Mikey was here too.”

 

“Thanks Sonny Boy.” I smile at him and as he turns to leave. Just then, I have a thought.  “Gus?  When you say here, do you mean at the infirmary or in this suite?”

 

“No here daddy. Mr Tyler was here too. Grandma asked him to set up the dinner.  Remember?”

 

“Yes Gus, I remember.  Now go back to bed Sonny Boy.”

 

When the door is closed, I shake my head.  “There’s no way that…”

 

The door opens again and Gus pokes his head through the door. “And daddy. He told me about Leather Bear, which I thought was nice of him. Good night.”

 

As the door shuts, we all look at each other and I swallow hard.  

 

“Brian, you can’t seriously think that Michael would do that?”  Ted gasps.

 

“I hope not Ted, but I remember something. When we got the Seabird account, he started to say something about you know after… but then Gus interrupted him.”

 

Franc paces before turning to us. “Before we jump anywhere, let me check some things. Give me an hour.”

 

With that, she’s gone.

 

“Brian, Michael wouldn’t do that.”  Ted tries to reassure me but I can see the uncertainty in his eyes.

 

AN HOUR LATER

 

BRIAN

 

I open the door to Franc and she has Tyler with her.  This can’t be good.

 

“Tell him.” She orders quietly.

 

“When I got to the room to plate up, Mr Novotny wasn’t there. But when I was setting up the room, he came in with Leather Bear.”

 

“Maybe someone found him and gave it to him to give back to Gus.”  Ted tries.

 

“Maybe. But when they were leaving to go and get Gus, Debs said he should come with them. He said he didn’t want to.”

 

“Nice.  And?  What are you trying to say?”  I’m starting to get pissed.

 

“Do you remember me saying that Ethan issued himself with a band?” Franc asks and I nod.  “Well, he had that set to the same settings as the card, which has ship wide access. The records show that he was here when Tyler was but we know he wasn’t.”

 

“So if it wasn’t Michael, then how did he get in to put Leather Bear back?!”  Ted snarls.

 

“Internal doors unlock automatically when we get within a foot with a steward card because normally, we’re loaded down with stuff.” Tyler explains. “We have to swipe/band again to override it. And Ethan would know that.”

 

“And I checked the other records for the night before.” Franc sighs. “He was most definitely not in the centre. He checked himself back out from one suite and back into his quarters with his band.”

 

“But if that’s Michael’s card with Leather Bear, how the hell is he getting around?” Ted growls.

 

“He’s got Ethan’s card and has been using it. Most likely he doesn’t know that.”  Franc takes another breath. “And Ethan has been on lockdown for the last two hours but according to this... he’s in the lift.”

 

OUTSIDE THE LIFT

 

BRIAN

 

Franc is so icy calm, it’s scary.

 

“It had better be Ethan because if it’s Michael, I shall kill him!”  I snap.

 

“And I’ll help you bury the body!”  Ted says.

 

“Hey guys!” Michael beams and steps out but he’s sent sprawling backwards when Ted punches him in face.

 

“Teddy!” Emmy Lou cries out. “What on earth are you doing?!”

 

“Breaking my fingers!” He yelps, clutching his hand to his chest.

 

“What the fuck is wrong with you?!”  Michael yells, clutching his eye.

 

“You with me, now!”  I snarl and grab the front of his shirt then haul him stumbling after me.

 

“Brian! What are you doing?!”  Debs yells.

 

“Open the door!” I yell.

 

“How can I open the door?!”  Michael yells back.

 

“Use your card!” I order.

 

“My card won’t work on your door!”

 

“Try!”  Franc shouts at him and steps towards him, fury in her eyes.

 

“Franc! Step back!”

 

After a tense minute she steps back, taking a couple of calming breaths.

 

“Who the fuck are you?!”  Debs demands.

 

“Rupert Charles-Prince the owner of Seabird Enterprises and very proud father of this little fireball.” He turns back to Michael and I. “Now Mr Novotny, please use your card on the door.”

 

“This is ridiculous!” Michael snaps but takes his card out and the door opens.

 

“Can you explain, Mr Novotny, how this card opens this door?”

 

“Everyone in. Now!  And take a seat!”  Emmy Lou orders.

 

BRIAN’S LOUNGE

 

RUPERT

 

“Mr Novotny, can you answer my question please?”

 

“I don’t know.” He glares at me, well as much as he can with one eye rapidly swelling.

 

“What the hell is going on?” A woman comes through the connecting door. “You’re going to wake Gus!”

 

“I’m not sure Mel.” The redhead tells her. “But I can’t wait to find out why Ted hit my son!”

 

“Ted hit…”

 

“Because the card he has belongs to Ethan Gold.” Franc growls. “And that card was used to get into the business centre the night before the pitch when the boards were completely destroyed.” Everyone gasps in shock.

 

I clear my throat hard and she sits back down.

 

“How did this card come into your possession?” I ask him.

 

“Ask Gold. He most probably planted it on me!” He protests. “We’ve had a couple of run-ins.”

 

“So, you should have two cards then? Where’s the second card, Michael?” Mel asks.

 

“I don’t…”

 

“Can you get Leather Bear for me Mel?”  Brian asks and in less than a minute, she’s back.

 

“Check the pocket.” Brian tells her and she pulls out another card. “Gus told me that Uncle Mikey told him Leather Bear was back. And this…” he turns to Mr Novotny.  “Is your card.”

 

“Care to explain that?”  Franc demands.

 

“Uh…”

 

“Let me put it another way. How come Gold’s card has been used for the last couple of days and yours hasn’t?” Franc is calm-before-the-storm calm and I nod at the stewards.

 

“Like I said he planted it on me!”

 

“How did he plant it on you and get out of the wherever he was?” Franc demands. “Every steward needs to swipe in and out.”

 

Silence.

 

“Michael?”  The redhead asks. “Tell me you didn’t do this?”

 

“Michael?”  Emmy Lou asks.  “Please, tell us you didn’t do this?”

 

“I was drunk....” He begins. “I didn’t mean….aaah fuck!” He yells as a fist connects with his face.

 

“Franc!”  I snap.

 

“What?” She retorts. “Seriously, if I hit him, would he be living?”

 

I turn around to see Cynthia clutching her hand. “I’ve been waiting years to do that!”

 

“Brian, let me explain!”  He tries again.  “I was drunk and…”

 

“Get out!”  Brian snarls.  “Go anywhere but here!”

 

“Is there any way we can get him off this ship?”  Mel asks.

 

“What?!  Come on guys, I made a stupid mistake!”

 

“Yes.” I reply. “We can take him to nearest island…”

 

“Wait, you’re not serious!  Brian I’m…”

 

“Quiet!” He hisses and then turns to Mel. “Can you wake Gus for me?”

 

“Sure.”

 

“Brian?” The redhead asks.

 

“One second Debs. I just need to ask Gus something.”

 

Gus comes in with Mel, rubbing his eyes. He’s the image of Brian. He crawls into Brian’s lap.

 

“Hey Sonny Boy, sorry to wake you but can you answer a question for me?” Gus nods sleepily and rests his head on Brian’s shoulder. “Did Uncle Mikey say sorry to you for scaring you with his cartoon books?”

 

“No daddy.”  He mumbles.

 

“Thanks Sonny Boy. Now you go back to bed and I’ll see you in the morning.”

 

“Okay daddy.” Mel takes him back to his room and he waits for her to rejoin us.

 

“Where’s the nearest airport to where we are now?”  Brian asks.

 

“Leeward Islands.” I reply.

 

“Can you arrange transportation for him?” He sighs and I nod. “Good, can whoever it is liaise with Bella or Cyn to arrange that?  Cyn, get him back to the Pitts, in economy.”

 

“Yes not a problem.”  I reply.

 

“With pleasure.”  Cynthia growls.

 

“Brian! Just…”

 

“This is the last thing I do for you.” He spits at him before turning to me. “Thank you Rupert.”

 

He strides out the suite and then all hell breaks loose!

 

JUSTIN’S QUARTERS

 

JUSTIN

 

I’m working on the portrait when the door knocks, and I break into a grin when I see Brian, but he doesn’t return it.  I step aside and he comes in sitting down without a word.

 

“Brian?”

 

“Michael destroyed the boards. He said he was drunk but I don’t believe that because he also lied about apologising to Gus about the comic books.”

 

I just shake my head in disbelief and after a while, I brush the hair off his forehead.  “Want to go to bed and talk?”

 

“Yeah.”

 

I take his hand and lead him to the bedroom.

 

 

CHAPTER 14 – STORM AND CALM

 

DAY 23 – EARLY MORNING

 

DEBS SUITE

 

BEDROOM

 

DEBS

 

I sigh again and stare into the darkness, the flash of lightning being the only thing lighting up the room. It’s no good, I can’t sleep anymore. I’m worried about Brian. He didn’t come back up to his suite last night according to Mel, and his bed’s not been slept in.

 

“He might be back now.” Carl turns over. “Let’s go see Mel and check. If he’s not then we call Franc and see if we can locate him via his swipe card. How about that?”

 

I smile at him and get out of bed. “Okay you jump in the shower first and I’ll make coffee.” I order but he grabs my wrist before I get too far.

 

“Or we both have a shower now…you know, save water?”  He grins.

 

“Carl!”  I gasp.

 

“That’s a yes, right?”

 

“Definitely!”

 

MICHAEL’S SUITE

 

MICHAEL

 

My eye and cheek are still painful but it’s down to a dull ache thanks to the painkillers.  Blake’s second in command had to check it because he was looking after Ted and Cynthia.  I tried to explain to them but nobody was listening…

 

Start of flashback

SECONDS AFTER BRIAN WALKS OUT

 

MICHAEL

 

“Michael, how could you?!”  Ma yells.

 

“Like I said, I was drunk!”  I shout back, wincing as the pain from the punches radiate around my head.

 

“You’ve done nothing but bitch about how little you have seen of Brian!  But you knew, you knew how important this is and what he’s like during a pitch!”  Uncle Vic snaps.  “Instead of being supportive like the rest of us, you just stomped around like a two year old!”

 

“Guys take this downstairs. You’re going to wake Gus!”  Mel orders and with one filthy look at me, goes back to her suite.

 

“I need Ethan’s card back.”  Franc orders and hands mine back to me.

 

“Do you realise what trouble you are in?”  Ma asks me as we wait for the lift.  “Ems, where you going?”

 

“Taking the stairs; I can’t bear to be near him!”

 

When the lift comes, it is just Ma, me, Uncle Vic, Rodney and Carl.

 

“We will talk in the morning, Michael.”  Ma sighs.  “If you’re lucky, he’ll have calmed down by the morning and will just ask for you to be removed to another part of the ship.”

 

“I doubt it, sis, I doubt it.”  Uncle Vic says.

End of flashback

 

I’ve been calling Brian for the last 3 hours. I’ve just got to get him to listen to me.  When I look out the window, there is a massive storm raging outside.

 

“Brian, it’s me again. I need to talk to you face to face and alone to explain... please call me back.”

 

JUSTIN’S SUITE

 

BEDROOM

 

BRIAN

 

My phone beeps again. It doesn’t take a genius to work out who it is.  That fucker can definitely wait.

 

We didn’t talk much about it last night. Instead, we ended up watching a cheesy movie.  Well we started to watch it but I fell asleep at some point. I don’t know when but I know I started off on my side. However, now I’m flat on my back while Justin uses me as a mattress.  And I have discovered that he snores.  Not too loud, just a small little rumble.

 

“Custard!”  I grumble as yet again, he smacks me in the face with his tail.  “Justin.  Justin.”

 

“Mmmm, sleepy.”  He mumbles.

 

“I know but Custard keeps hitting me in the face, which I’m guessing is Custard speak for get up and feed me.”

 

He vibrates with laughter and kisses the middle of my chest.  “Indeed it is.”  He brushes the hair out of his eyes.  “Coffee?”

 

I just nod and then lie back down.  But instead of following him, Custard just stares at me. “Go, he’s going to feed you.”  He doesn’t move.  “Justin, he’s not moved!”  I call out.

 

“Yeah because he wants you to feed him, not me!”  He calls back.

 

“Are you kidding?!”

 

“Nope!  Get up and see what happens.”

 

I do so and sure enough, Custard trots after me and waits by his bowl.  “Okay, what do I do?”

 

“You need to wash the bowl out first…”

 

Fifteen minutes later, we’re back in bed with coffee. “So what are you going to do about Michael?” He peers out of the window. “With this storm, they won’t be able to fly anywhere, at least not today.”

 

I sigh and steady the cup whilst Rhubarb and Custard make themselves comfortable.  “I don’t know. He lied about saying sorry to Gus. I know him when he’s drunk. He does a lot of things, generally fall asleep…”

 

“But?”

 

“It was something he almost said after we got the contract. You know after what… And when I was saying about how much more things we have to do with Seabird account, he was annoyed. Like I should be finished now that it’s been signed.”

 

“But surely he knows what you’re like when you’re doing a pitch?”

 

“Yeah but in the Pitts, it’s different. I’m…hey you okay?”

 

“Pittsburgh? You’re from Pittsburgh?!” Justin splutters.

 

“Yes. We all are. That’s where we embarked.”

 

“Us too!  I mean, I have a base there.”  He laughs.  “I left when dad said it was either Dartmouth or leave home.  But I wanted to work with kids and do art for most of my life and when I saw an opportunity, I took it.  Been working on Seabird Cruise ships, happily, ever since.”

 

“Speaking of working, have we resigned?”  I ask, finishing my coffee off and lying down on my side to look up at him.

 

“Resigned?  What…oh?”  The confusion clears from his face.  “Um, I see.”  He puts his cup down and slides down so our faces are level. “I feel that we have to see Seabird finally concluded and you need to deal with Michael.”

 

I scrunch up my nose because he’s right. “But we can we resign temporarily right now?”

 

“We resigned for an hour the day after the contract was signed.  Now get up!”

 

I pin him down easily.  “Resign.”  Kiss.  “Resign.”  Kiss.  “Are you resigning?”

 

“More persuasion please…mmm.”

 

I feel that groan reverberate all the way down to my toes. When he entwines his legs with mine, I bury my hands in his hair, his soft beautiful hair.

 

KNOCK!  KNOCK!  KNOCK!

 

I reluctantly pull away from his delicious mouth and he pecks me on the nose before getting up to answer the door.  He talks to someone for about 5 minutes, which could have been better spent in my opinion, doing what he was doing with his hips!

 

He comes back and yanks the quilt off me.  “Up!”  He orders giggling.  “You’ve got to go!”

 

“Fine!  But can I at least have a shower here!”

 

He gives me the are-you-kidding-me look and I laugh.  “It was worth a try!”

 

JUSTIN

 

Oh fuck!  He’s that Brian Kinney!

 

MEL’S SUITE

 

MEL

 

We called Franc and she said she would go and get Brian.  Debs was getting really worried but now we’ve located him, she’s feeling better.  We’re just waiting for him and Gus to finish in the shower.  After we take Gus to Kid’s Club, then we’re heading to Rupert’s suite as he wants us to sit in on the disciplinary hearing for Gold.

 

“Okay Sonny Boy, are you ready?”

 

“Yes daddy.”

 

BOARDROOM 2 – FORTY MINUTES LATER

 

RUPERT

 

We’re waiting for Franc and Bella to arrive.  Having worked diligently over the evening, they have been going through the records trying to find the write-ups that he deleted. Although he’s going to be dismissed, which he should have been for the band debacle, he’s allowed to defend himself.

 

Naturally, he pleaded to Ray to help him but whatever he wants to say, I can’t back him on this.

 

The door opening heralds the arrival of Bella and Franc.

 

“Dad, I’ve been speaking to Ethan and…”

 

“Sssh.  I want to hear from him, not you.”  I tell Ray sternly.

 

Brian is, understandably, glaring at him.

 

“Okay let’s start this.  Mr Gold, explain.”  I order.

 

“I admittedly did wrong by not applying the band on Mr Kinney’s son immediately, but I did apologise when…”

 

“Over 24 hours later.”  Brian points out.

 

“Mr Kinney please…”

 

“But I did try earlier. Mr Novotny’s presence stopped me from putting my note of apology in his suite.”

 

“How so?”  Franc asks.  “You could simply have slipped it under the door. You didn’t need to go into his suite.”

 

He glares at her but says nothing else.

 

“Now about the amendment of the records, how do you explain that?”  I demand.

 

“There is no proof that I did that.”

 

“But you have my son’s code and that was used to amend your records. Trust me when I say that my son doesn’t have the wherewithal to do that.”

 

I ignore the gasp of indignation that Ray lets out.

 

“Why didn’t you just go to Bella to say you lost your card? Why did you issue yourself a band, which you are not senior enough to have?  And then there’s the non-fraternisation policy you breached. I understand that there are at least nine breaches of you being with passengers and…”

 

“It’s a gay cruise ship. Of course, we’re going to fraternise!”  He scoffs as his arrogance begins to show through.

 

“Not everyone subscribes to the cliché, that all gay men do is fuck!”  Franc snaps.

 

He glares at her again.  “And besides, I’m not the only one.  If I’m getting in trouble for this, I’m not getting in trouble alone!”

 

“What are you talking about?”  I demand.

 

“What about Justin and Leda? They’ve been fraternising with the Kinney party. At least, I wasn’t so blatant!”

 

“Ethan!”  Ray gasps and I have to bite back the laugh as Franc rolls her eyes.

 

“What is this he’s talking about?”  I look at Brian.  “Is this true?  And who are Justin and Leda?”

 

“They run the Kids Club.”  Ethan declares smugly.

 

“As an independent franchise.”  Franc tells us.  “The franchise is run across the entire Seabird but they wanted to be on this ship.  But, they aren’t governed by the rules of Seabird.”

 

“They don’t work for Seabird?”  Brian looks at her in disbelief and she shakes her head.

 

“I see.  Well, I don’t think there is any more to discuss. Ethan Gold, you are dismissed from the employment within Seabird. You will be confined to a holding suite until we arrive in the Leeward Islands. Then you will be afforded transportation to a city within the USA of your choice.  Where would you prefer that to be?”

 

“Pittsburgh.”  He snaps and is about to stalk out, when I clear my throat.

 

“Both your card and band have been disabled.  You will need to wait for one of the stewards to accompany you to the room.  Mr Kinney, has this matter been concluded to your satisfaction?”

 

“Yes thanks Rupert.  Now if you could excuse me.”

 

KIDS CLUB – AN HOUR LATER

 

BRIAN

 

I wait for the last of the kids leave and when they do, I lock the door.  Justin is in the office finishing off whatever he’s doing.  He comes to a surprised halt when he comes out of the office and finds me there.

 

“Brian! Is everything okay with Gus?” He looks genuinely worried.

 

I just start walking towards him so he starts to walk backwards into the office.  And once inside, I lock the door.

 

“Brian?  What are you doing?  What’s happened?”  He demands.

 

“Ethan Gold has been fired, placed in lockdown and will be transferred to a city within the USA of his choice…”

 

“This is good, right?”

 

“Very but something rather interesting came up.  Seems you forgot to mention a little detail about Seabird.”  I keep stalking him until he’s trapped between a wall and a very hard place!

 

“What?”  He’s looking for a way out.

 

“You don’t work for them?  Kids Club is a franchise…”  I put my hand out to stop him from ducking down. “Which means the non-fraternization clause needs to be renegotiated.”

 

“It doesn’t.  We…”  He stops talking when I slide down to my knees.  “Brian, you can’t! Not here!”  He gasps.  “Brian no, please don’t!  Please!”

 

I get off my knees and frown.  “Dropped my phone…”  He just stares at me mortified.

 

“Oh God!  Let me out Brian, please let me out!”

 

I step back and he rushes away.

 

What the fuck just happened?!

 

TED’S SUITE – HALF AN HOUR LATER

 

LOUNGE

 

TED

 

For a man so smart and who has Michael throwing himself at him, he’s remarkably clueless.   And it is so sweet, although I would never say that out loud!  He’s sitting there trying to fathom what happened.

 

“Brian.”  I try not to smile.  “You were in stalk mode. You had locked you both in his office and then you dropped to your knees.  After all that flirting you two have been doing, what else was he supposed to think you were going to do?”

 

I wait and can literally see the realisation dawning.  “He thought I was going to…in there!”

 

Okay not reacting the way I thought he would.

 

“Before you go ballistic, just think about what I said.  You’ve gone from getting to know him gently and letting Gus get to know him. He’s his Mr Justin.  You haven’t even let Michael know half the things that Justin knows.”  He frowns.  “Okay, let me try it another way.  What’s Justin’s phone code, personal?”

 

“2165.”

 

“Michael’s?”

 

“No…oh fudgsicles!”  He sighs.  “I was just teasing him.”

 

“Brian don’t tell me, tell him!”  I order and haul him to his feet.

 

BRIAN’S SUITE – AN HOUR LATER

 

BALCONY

 

BRIAN

 

I have had nothing but a litany of texts and voicemail messages from Michael but I have ignored each and every one.  Him, I can fix later. Justin I want to fix now.  But so far he’s not replied.  I look at my toenails and sigh.

 

The pounding can only mean one thing…Michael.

 

“Brian!”  He hammers harder, yelling at the top of his voice.  “Please, can you just let me explain?!”

 

I open the door and he tries to step inside.  “You can explain outside.”

 

“I would rather do this in private.”  He tries again.

 

“There are only two suites.  So judging by your appearance, you know that Mel and Gus are in Lilah’s.”

 

“Fine!  Although, I think I should sue Cynthia and Ted for hitting me.”  He looks at me carefully.

 

“Your choice but two things.  One you are going to have to explain to the court why they hit you, which leads you to your second, although it is really your first problem, the vandalism you caused.  Which I can have you arrested for.”

 

“Arrested?  Brian, I’m your best friend!  I got drunk and made a stupid, stupid mistake.  I was just drunk, that’s all!”

 

“And lied.”  I point out.

 

“About what for fuck sake?!  I said I was drunk!”

 

“Gus.”

 

“What about him?!”

 

I just stare.  “You lied about saying you apologised.”

 

“I did apologise when I told him about Leather Bear.”

 

“So you’re calling my son a liar?”

 

“No!  Of course not!  Maybe he just didn’t hear me.  When I found him, I took back to him.”

 

“Where did you find him?”

 

“Who?”

 

“Leather Bear.  Where did you find him?”

 

“I just found him.”  He replies.

 

“So how did your card get in his vest pocket?”

 

He sighs heavily.  “I don’t know.  I just found him outside my room and…”

 

I put my hand up when my phone beeps.  Wasn’t ignoring you.  Phone charging and left office phone in office when I was behaving like an idiot.  Can we talk?  J.

 

“Okay Michael, I have to go now.”

 

“What?  Where?”  He looks confused.

 

“None of your business.  We should be hitting the island tomorrow…”

 

He smiles at me.  “I’m so glad we’re…”

 

I know exactly what he’s going to say.  “Allow me to disabuse you of the notion you’re under.  There is no we here.  Mel wants you off this ship and so do I.  Cynthia and Debs will help you pack in the morning in readiness for going back to the Pitts on the 1400 from the Leeward Islands.”

 

“Brian!”

 

“No!  You hurt Gus and you almost cost me something very important to me.  I’ve listened but to be honest, I don’t believe you.  And…”

 

“Michael!”  Debs’ voice booms out.  “I knew it!  I knew you would be bothering Brian!  Get your ass in this lift right now!”

 

“Ma!  Stay out of this!  This is between Brian and me and…”

 

MICHAEL

 

He’s shut the door on me!

 

“Now look what you’ve done!”  I snap at her and sit down.

 

“What exactly are you doing now?!”  She yells.

 

“I’m waiting for him to come out so I can talk him out of this!”  I hear the lift door beep and am surprised to see two men approaching us.

 

“Michael Novotny?”  A man asks and I nod.  “Can you stand up, sir?”

 

“You are under arrest for the destruction of property belonging to Seabird Enterprises.  Come with me, sir.”

 

“What?!” I stand up quickly. “I’m not going anywhere!” I cross my arms and stand my ground.

 

“It would be more dignified for you to walk, sir.”  The other one of them approaches.  “Either way, you are making your way to your suite in the next minute.”

 

“Michael, just move!”  Ma orders.  “Don’t be a bigger asshole!”

 

I start to make my way down the corridor but Ma is staring at the floor.  “Ma, aren’t you coming? I need your help!”

 

“I’ll be right there; I know where to find you!”  She yells, slowly coming up the corridor.  “I’ve lost my fucking earring!  Dammit!  Be right there!”

 

The lift door opens and I am ushered in.

 

DEBS

 

I wait for the lift door to shut before going back to his door.  “Kiddo!  Open up, it’s just me!”

 

He opens the door and sighs.  “Debs, please don’t ask me…”

 

“I’m not going to.” I grin at his confusion.  “Just letting you know you will be Michael free for the rest of the night.  A couple of friends of Ems have arrested him and will be standing guard outside his door if he tries to leave.”

 

He just stares at me for a minute.  “Are you serious?”

 

“Yes.  Now enjoy the rest of your evening!”  I kiss him on the cheek and make my way laughing back to Lilah’s.

 

BRIAN

 

I shut the door and then grab my phone again.  I had texted him to say I had to get rid of Michael first and he was happy to wait.  Want to talk in person?  If so, me to you or you to me?  B.  I wait and pace impatiently.  On my way - J flashes on my screen.

 

Ten minutes later, a nervous Justin is outside my door. The first thing I do is look at his feet.

 

“Oh a serious conversation if there are no furry distractions.”  I step back and let him in.  He doesn’t say a word.  “Want a drink?”

 

He just nods when I wave a Beam at him.  “Balcony?”

 

We sit in silence for a couple of minutes.  “I was teasing you.”  I tell him.  “I could’ve picked a better place to do that in stalk mode as Ted put it, but I wouldn’t…”

 

“It was just so different from how you’ve been before.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a virgin but…”

 

“Not that experienced?”  I suggest.

 

“Not as much as you.”  He murmurs shyly.  “Your reputation preceded you in Pittsburgh. I still can’t believe that you are that Brian Kinney, Stud of Liberty Avenue.  But that’s not the Brian Kinney on this ship.  What happened to make you drop off the face of the Gay PA world?”

 

“I grew up. What with Lindsay, building Kinnetic up, looking after Gus and cancer, I readjusted my priorities…”

 

“Cancer?  You had cancer?”

 

“Yeah they got it all.  Been cancer free for almost 2 years.”

 

He just looks incredulous.  “Where?”

 

“Left testicle is fake.”  I tell him.

 

“Wow.  You say it so calmly.  Weren’t you scared?”

 

“Fucking terrified.”  I laugh.  “But I got through it.”

 

“You were lucky to have everyone around you, supporting you and…”

 

“They don’t know.  You’re the first person I have ever told.”

 

“Why didn’t you tell them?”  He asks and for a few minutes, I think about it.

 

“Because I didn’t want to be coddled and be made a big deal of, especially by Lindsay and Michael. It would have been about them, not me. So I was told the prognosis and got on with it.  I was setting up Kinnetic at the same time which made it easier to hide it that way.”  I look at the goosebumps on his arms.  “You want to go inside?”  He nods.

 

After I shut the balcony door, I take his hand and lead him to the bedroom.  “Want to get in and talk?”

 

“Yeah.”

 

EMMY’S BALCONY

 

BEN

 

I hold Emmy in my arms while he sobs for his friend.

 

“What am I going to do?”  He asks when he recovers.

 

“Nothing and something.”  I tell him and he looks confused.  “You heard what he said. He’s fine and didn’t tell anyone because he didn’t want to be made a fuss of.  So say nothing to anyone else but Brian. He’s the only person you should tell that you know and how you know.”

 

He nods and we head into the suite.

 

DAY 24 – MORNING

 

BRIAN’S SUITE

 

BALCONY

 

BRIAN

 

When I woke up this morning, once again having started on my side, I was flat on my back and Justin was snoring on my chest.  But there is something else…another weight.  I look down and chuff out a laugh as Gus sucks his thumb in his sleep.

 

We got up an hour later and had breakfast on the balcony before he took him to Kids Club.

 

I was about to go to the gym when I got a text from Emmy Lou to say he wants to talk.

 

“Hey Emmy Lou.”  I open the door with a smile but he looks sad and worried.  “What’s wrong?”

 

“Sweetie, I was outside on my balcony with Ben last night…no joking please. I need to get through this.”  I close my mouth.  “When you were talking to Justin and I heard about the cancer…”

 

“Oh I see.  Emmy Lou, I’m fine.  Please, can you keep this to yourself?”

 

“Of course!  Now more importantly have you two…”

 

“No. We’ve got hot and heavy but no.”

 

“You’ve not?”  Emmy Lou looks stunned.  “But you’ve sought relief elsewhere?”

 

“No and we’re fine with that.  He’s from Pittsburgh.”  He gasps in surprise.  “And he knows that I’m that Brian Kinney.”

 

“Oh-oh, how is that for him?  Want me to get it?”  He asks when the door knocks and I nod and pray.

 

“Hey Teddy!”

 

I let out a sigh of relief.

 

“Hey Ems, what are you doing here?  Bri, how’d it go?  You and Justin are okay, right?”

 

“What happened Teddy?  Catch me up?”  Emmy demands.

 

An hour later, I’m heading to Lilah’s with two of my best friends teasing me about my stalk timing!

 

LEEWARD ISLANDS QUAYSIDE

 

MICHAEL

 

I can’t believe it! Gold and I are both being shepherded down the gangplank. I keep looking back to see if Brian is coming to stop them but the only person behind the stewards is Cynthia looking so fucking pleased with herself!

 

As we’re driven away, I vow that Brian and I will be together. He just needs to calm down.

 

SEABIRD NIGHTCLUB – EARLY EVENING

 

BRIAN

 

It has been a great day.  I ended up telling Ted about the cancer and it turned out that he had a suspicion something was wrong but waited for me to tell him.  We are sitting at the bar when a guy cruises me and for a brief second, I was interested but then Justin came in and the interest died. I walk past the guy and take Justin’s hand to lead him back to our table. It wasn’t until we were making our way back his quarters that I realised Michael is off the ship and not only didn’t I say goodbye but I didn’t care.

 

“I’m going to ask you a question.” I get in the bed, flinging the covers back over us.  “How is it I start on my side like this but wake up on my back?”

 

He laughs.  “You’re very comfy to lie on and that’s my side of the bed.”

 

“Oh…okay.”  I yawn and then flop onto my back and pull him onto my chest.  “Goodnight.”

 

“Goodnight.”  He yawns.  “Oh, we’re going to the island tomorrow.”

 

“Sleep twat.”

 

“Night stud.”

 

 

CHAPTER 15 – OFF TO THE ISLAND AND BACK IN PITTSBURGH

DAY 25 – EARLY AFTERNOON

JUSTIN’S SUITE

LOUNGE

JUSTIN

 

“You need to get up!” I call back at the still in bed form of Brian.

 

“How can I? I’m pinned helplessly under the weight of cat, with claws who is kneading. I like my chest unpunctured.”

 

“Up now or there will be no non-fraternization policy to renegotiate!”  I declare.

 

Silence.

 

I head back to the bedroom and find him lying pathetically underneath Custard.

 

“Custard off!” He orders, but all Custard does is move to his crotch. “See!  And there is no way in fuck I’m shoving him from there!”

 

Custard has the nerve to look smug as he settles in Brian’s lap. “Scruff!” I snap and Custard is up and out like a shot.

 

“Okay, so scruff is?”  Brian asks getting out of bed.

 

“Something he absolutely hates. The scruff is at the back of his neck and he really doesn’t like it being used to move him, so saying that tells him I mean business.”

 

“Oh I see.  Good to know.”  He heads to the bathroom then joins me in the lounge.

 

“So are they coming with us?”  He asks, indicating Rhubarb and Custard and I shake my head.  “No, they are going to stay with Tyler.”

 

“Oh.  Well okay. Look, I’ve got to go and pack for this island trip.  What time are we taking off and how many days?”

 

“Three and for four days.” I smirk at his quickly hidden look of disappointment.  “Now don’t pout. You’ll see them soon.”

 

“I don’t pout.”  He protest but then grins before kissing me swiftly and heading out.

 

I chuckle at his text ten minutes later…still not pouting!  Later B.

 

PITTSBURGH

 

MICHAEL’S APARTMENT

 

MICHAEL

 

I still can’t believe I’m back here now!  Gold managed to wangle his way into first class on the way home, while I was in a cramped seat in economy.  My back’s killing me and of course, I have no food as I was still supposed to be away!  I dump my case out and take the few things I need to head out.

 

Forty minutes later, I get to my destination and manage to grab the door before it shuts. I make my way up the stairs and sigh in relief at the familiar door. I pull out my keys to open the door but nothing happens. I look at the keys and they’re definitely the right ones so I try again but again nothing. I don’t understand.

 

I decide to go back to my apartment and as I go outside I realise that I should have used the lower key lock first.  As I turn back to go back inside, I miss the handle and the door shuts.  Taking out the keys, I try to open the door and again nothing. I ring the super’s bell.

 

After leaning on it for almost ten minutes, he finally comes to the door.  “Yes?”  He calls through the intercom.

 

“Can you let me in?  My keys don’t seem to be working.”

 

“Keys have been changed on the order of the building’s owner and unless you’re a resident, you don’t get a key.”

 

“But you know me.” He shakes his head. “Let me speak to the building owner then. You must have a number for them!”

 

“I do but I’m not allowed to give out that information.” He smirks. “Although I can take a message for you. Though I would’ve thought someone in such a venerable position would be aware of just who that is.”

 

“What are you talking about?!” I snap.

 

“Excuse me, I have other duties to attend to. One of which is finally being able to ignore you!”

 

As I turn to leave, another resident comes up and this time I make it back into the building and stalk to the super’s office.

 

SUPER’S OFFICE

 

I hammer on the door and after ten minutes, he seems hellbent on ignoring me. I sit outside the door to wait.  After 15 minutes, I pull out a comic and start to read.

 

“Excuse me sir, what are you doing?” A voice interrupts my reading and I find myself looking up at a cop.

 

“I am waiting for the super to come back so I can get into…”

 

“Mr Novotny does not live here…”

 

“But my best friend Brian Kinney does and I have…”

 

“Who’s Brian Kinney?  I mean, apart from his supposed best friend?”  The cop asks.

 

The super smiles for some reason. “The owner of the building and it was at his request that the locks to the street door be changed.”

 

Are you fucking kidding me with this Brian?!

 

SEABIRD ISLAND

 

RUPERT’S ESTATE GROUNDS

 

RUPERT

 

I didn’t think it was possible for a set of people to look so stunned and be so quiet.  The first to speak is Gus.

 

“Daddy, are we in another country?”

 

“I’m not sure.”  He murmurs and looks to me.

 

“No Gus, we’re not. We’re still connected to the mainland. In fact, you can walk to the mainland if the tide is low enough.”

 

“We can?” He holds up his hand.  “Where?  Can you show me? That would be okay right, daddy?”

 

“Uh huh.”  Brian is still stunned.

 

I take Gus’s hand and take him to the opposite side of where we landed and get down on my haunches. I’m unsurprised to find that everyone but Veri, Franc and Ray have joined us.  “So, can you look along my arm?”  He nods.  “Can you see that island way over there?”

 

“We can walk all the way over there?”  He gasps.  “How long would it take?”

 

“About an hour. Which I think it would take too long for your little legs. But your daddy and Mr Justin could cycle over there with you on the back. And that would take about half an hour or so.”

 

“Daddy, could we please? Could we?!”  He’s bouncing up and down like a firecracker.

 

“Maybe tomorrow Gus. We need to get settled in first, okay?” Brian tells him.

 

“Thank you daddy! Thank you!” He flings himself around Brian’s legs.

 

“Okay, guys let’s get you to your rooms!”  Franc calls out.

 

EMMY

 

As we head into the estate, the first thing that hits me is the coolness inside the building.

 

“Gus, come here sweetheart.”  Franc asks and he trots up to her.  “Hold your band up to this panel.” He does as he’s told and she turns to Brian and Mel. “This is registered with the police station on the mainland so if he gets lost while he’s on the island, they’ll find him.”

 

“Right, that’s the serious stuff done.”  Rupert beams at his daughter. “Who is where?”

 

As we walk upstairs, I take Ted and Franc to one side and after a quiet word, we grin at each other and head to the rooms.

 

LOUNGE – 2 HOURS LATER

 

TED

 

I try to keep the stupid smile off my face!  Ems and I are keeping our fingers crossed, but to us, it looks like Brian and Justin are slowly but surely falling in love with each other.  Gus is wedged between the two of them practising his words and reading. Rupert has told us that this is to be work free. Cynthia and Franc have gone to the mainland to let their hair down.

 

Ray has gone back to California suitably chastened by his dad. He’s been locked out of the Seabird system entirely. Franc doesn’t think he can be trusted to not give out his code again.

 

“Brandies everyone?”  Rupert asks and I do feel sorry for Mel because it is a good brandy but Leda has joined her in the booze free zone. I am so happy for Mel! When she first reconnected with Leda, she was worried because of what had happened with Lindsay.  Amazingly enough, she hadn’t realised that Leda is a lesbian until she kissed her…I mean seriously!

 

Gus is starting to nod off so it is with a tired, but futile, protest that he’s taken to bed.

 

We’re surprised when they come back downstairs but we end the evening with a rousing game of poker.

 

DAY 26 – MORNING

 

BRIAN AND JUSTIN’S ROOM

 

JUSTIN

 

We’ve had coffee and we're waiting for the tornado that is Gus to come in but by half past nine, it was clear he isn't coming.

 

“Wanna make out?” Brian pulls me onto his chest and I happily agree.  Five minutes later, we’ve not let up. But with the deep need for air, I let his bottom lip out of my mouth a bit before sucking it gently back in as his hand tightens in my hair. I really like kissing him!

 

“You really are gorgeous.” I whisper in his ear and he tries to squirm away giggling. I place soft kisses on his neck and then his collar bone. “Hands.” I murmur as they start to wander.

 

“But…”  He protests but I kiss him quiet. He puts his hands on either side of his head.

 

I kiss a trail down to his nipples and place sucking kisses on them as he grabs and twists the pillows, making happy noises. When I get to his belly button, he’s panting with his eyes closed. I crawl up his body.

 

“Will you turn over for me?”  He opens his eyes and I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a gorgeous green and he nods.  “Thank you.”  I kiss him gently and raise up enough to give him room.

 

I plant kisses on his back, like he told me not to. I mentally chuckle that the memory. When I get to his boxer clad peachy ass, I slowly pull them down. The pace of his breath quickens and his hips jerk as I nip his cheeks, before reaching between his legs and start to stroke his balls and cock.

 

“Oh God! Oh God!”  He groans, starting to get up on his knees. “So good! Yes! Please Justin, please.”

 

“Sssh. Sssh.” I croon, slowing my strokes until he starts to calm and lies back down.

 

I pull his cheeks apart and blow on his pucker; he lets out a small high-pitched cry.

 

“You’re squealing.” I tease him and he attempts to throw the pillow at me. “How is that nice?”  I giggle and whatever he was going to say gets lost in the groan as I start to work my tongue inside.

 

He opens his trembling legs wider and starts to grind against the bed. “Mmmm you taste good.” I tell him then slowly slide my finger in and wait for him to adjust before starting the twisting motion.

 

His head flies up and he looks at me in astonishment.  When I slide deeper inside, he buries his head in his hands and starts to bite his fist. Slowly, I twist back out and add another finger, repeating the corkscrew motion.

 

“Oh-oh-oh!” He cries out and I bite my lip as my cock starts to leak and harden further.

 

I withdraw my fingers and kiss my way up his back. “Brian, can I…”  The question is answered when he reaches for the lube and a condom. “Look at me.” I tell him and instead of turning just his head, he turns over.

 

“Ever done it this way?”  He asks between kisses and I shake my head. “Put my legs around your waist. Have to admit that I don’t do this very often and I’m a little sensitive…”

 

“Yeah I noticed.” I giggle but he pulls me back into another deep kiss.

 

“Want this to last. This way, you won’t go as deep.”  He grins as we rock against each other making each other harder. “Want me to put it on you?”

 

“Mmm.”  My eyes lock onto him opening the condom with his teeth and then I almost come when he slides the condom slowly down my shaft. “Brian!” I groan and take a couple of deep swallows, while resting my head against his shoulder.

 

“Okay?” He licks behind my left ear and I moan. “Y-yeah but n-not sure about the l-lasting part.”

 

“Now Justin, do it now or I will explode.”  He whimpers against my mouth.

 

He wraps his legs around my waist and I go to apply some lube but he shakes his head.  Aligning my cock against his entrance, I slide in and he arches his neck. I can’t resist the temptation to suck on his pulse point.

 

“Oh so good!” He whispers into my ear before I kiss him and start to move.

 

Four thrusts later, I tear my mouth from his. “Oh ho-ho-holy God!” I scream.

 

“Yes! Fuck yes!”  He shouts and empties between our bellies while I come hard.

 

Ten minutes later, we make our way to the shower on very wobbly legs.

 

GARDEN UNDERNEATH BRIAN AND JUSTIN’S ROOM

 

EMMY

 

“Hi five!” I smirk at Ben and he just laughs. “Seriously, only Brian could come together on his first time out with Justin!”

 

 

CHAPTER 16 – GUS ASKS A QUESTION

 

DAY 27 – EARLY MORNING

 

GARDEN

 

GUS

 

I just love it here!  Daddy said there’s a surprise coming today. I hope it's not Unca Mikey as I’ve liked it that he’s not here. He always seems to be cross when he can’t see daddy. I can’t see daddy all the time and I don’t get as cross as he does!  

 

“Gus!  Can you come here for a minute?” I grab Leather Bear and go to find Mr Justin on the other side of the garden.

 

When I get there he and daddy are smiley and there is a bike, well I think it’s a bike, there's a big box in the middle, it’s got cushions and a basket in there too, then there's another bike behind.

 

“Mr Justin what's that?”

 

“It’s a double bike with a nice place for a good little boy to sit in, so we can take him to the mainland where we’re going to have a picnic before going to the petting zoo.”

 

“Petting zoo?”  I look at him then daddy.  “Really?!”

 

Daddy nods and he’s smiling. Momma is coming with my jacket and hat.  “Now?  Daddy, we’re going now?”

 

“Yes, now Gus. But first, you have to climb in very carefully and put the safety belt on. Don't take it off until we say so, okay?” Daddy has his serious voice turned on and I nod. Once I’m in, momma puts my hat on and then we’re off.

 

BRIAN

 

I have to concentrate but it's a bit difficult with Justin standing to pedal and then leaning over the handlebars. When he looks over his shoulder and winks, I vow to make him pay!  

 

“More pedalling and less showing off!” I call out and he beams at me.

 

When we got to the mainland, Franca had arranged for transportation to the forest as it was just too dangerous to navigate the bike.  

 

GRAN ETANG TROPICAL FOREST

 

When we get to the picnic area, there’s a mix of families and it takes Gus a while to notice the group at the next table.

 

“Daddy? That man over there looks like Mr Joseph.” He stage whispers badly to me.

 

“That’s because it is me, Gus!” Joseph calls back.

 

“Mr Joseph!  Daddy, can I go please?”

 

“Yes you can. Mr Justin and I will be right here.”  

 

When he gets to their table, there's Maceo and Shaba and some of the other friends from the boat too. “Daddy!” He gasps.  

 

“We thought you might be getting a little lonely so enjoy your day Sonny Boy! And be a good boy, okay? Oh do you want us to take Leather Bear back with us and put him in your room?”

 

He rushes back and hands me Leather Bear. “Daddy, I’m so happy my cheeks hurt from smiling.”

 

“Mine too Sonny Boy, mine too.  Now off you go.”  I ruffle his hair and Justin gives him a hug.  

 

Gus keep looking back as he walks up the path until I can't see him anymore. And I wish for nothing more in this moment than that he and his Mr Justin could smile bright like that always.

 

JUSTIN

 

We watch Gus disappear up the path and chuckle at the fact he kept looking back.  The Gran Etang Tropical Forest is cool, thank goodness. Gus is going to the Spice Island Petting Zoo and I see a lot of stories when he comes back.

 

“Okay, let’s find our picnic spot.”  Brian tugs my hand. We walk into the forest before we actually come out near the lake and I gasp. It is utterly breathtaking.

 

“Wow, just wow!”  I breathe.  “Do you think it’s warm enough to swim in?”

 

“I should think so but I’m not skinny dipping in there!”

 

“Okay, no skinny dipping but can we at least swim?”  I beg and bat my eyes at him.  “Please.”

 

“Fine, but not together someone needs to guard the basket. So if…”  I take off. “You want to go first while I set up then you carry on!”  He shouts after me.

 

Twenty minutes later, I’m refreshed and when I come back to him, he’s sunbathing. I shake my hair over him.

 

“Hey!  I don’t want white dots!  I like a nice even tan, thank you!”  He grumbles, lifting the hat up.  “How was it?”

 

“Oh so nice!  So what we got for eats?”

 

“Not sure, Franc and Emmy just gave it to me; I haven’t checked. So have at it, I’m going for a paddle.”

 

I watch him saunter to the shoreline and marvel at how good he looks. I still can’t believe he let me make love to him first. I wonder if he’s still thinking about yesterday right now too...

 

Start of flashback

TWO HOUR AFTER THE SHOWER

 

BRIAN

 

After we had a shower and changed the sheets, we had a nap. I woke up before him and gently rolled him on his back. Although he snuffled, he soon settled back to sleep. I got up and thought about what had happened in the morning.  The corkscrewing thing he did was heavenly. I haven’t bottomed in years and it felt…wonderful.  I hear him padding towards me on the balcony and turn around.

 

“Come here you.”  I open my arms and he slides onto my lap and we kiss deeply.  “Thank you. This morning was fantastic.”

 

“I wasn’t sure if I…”

 

“I never do anything I don’t want to do.  Always remember that.”

 

“I will.  You’re really hot and tight.”  He whispers in my ear.

 

“I am?”  I whisper back.

 

“Yeah most tops are.”  He sucks on my earlobe and I look carefully at him. “Yep, I’m a top.  But I do bottom for the right guy and only the right guy.”

 

“Oh.”  I catch my breath as he wiggles his ass into my crotch and we kiss again. Then I remember how he was with me.  “Justin, can I…”

 

“Yes, please yes.”  He moans and I carry him back to bed.

End of flashback

 

JUSTIN

 

I watch him walk back and then he settles behind me.  “You realise we’re almost totally alone here?”

 

“Hmm.”  He murmurs, nuzzling behind my ear.  “We are indeed and I do believe some payback is called for.”

 

“Payback?  What for?”  I watch mesmerised as his hand slides into my shorts.  “Brian!”

 

“You waved your ass at me in the most teasing manner this morning.  I think I should show you how that made me feel.”

 

“Bri…an!”  I manage to stutter out as his hand closes around my cock and he starts to slowly stroke.  “There are people coming!”  I protest weakly and start to squirm.

 

“So you’ll just have to keep very quiet, won’t you?”  He starts to stroke faster.   “I can’t stop now I have a rhythm.”

 

“Oh please don’t!”  I manage to gasp out and move forward a bit so I can reach back.

 

“Let me.”  He groans and seconds later, I feel him twitching hotly in my hand.  “Oh Christ!  Oh so good, how close?”  He whispers in my ear.

 

“Close, so close!”  I gasp back, struggling to keep my hips still.

 

“Sssh.  Sssh.”  He croons in my ear and slows his stroking, but lazily flicks my slit. “Better?”

 

“I’m gonna!  Oh!  I-I please stop just gi-give me a…oh!”  I couldn’t hold off any longer and explode in his hand and then I feel him shudder behind me.

 

“Oh Jesus!”  He growls and tightens his arm around my waist.  “Swim?”  He croaks and all I can do is nod.

 

PITTSBURGH

 

RED CAPE COMICS

 

MICHAEL

 

I have been calling Brian for the last three days and still no response.  Locking me out of the loft is a step too far. Well I’m not taking this shit anymore. I got him on this cruise, well I can get him off it!

 

VANGUARD – TWO HOURS LATER

 

RECEPTION

 

CAROLINE

 

Where the hell do I know that guy from? He’s familiar but I can’t think where from! I lean against the wall so that he can’t see me. I feel for Miranda, the poor receptionist dealing with him.

 

“I have some news that Mr Gardner will find interesting about Seabird.  He will want to see me.”  He insists.

 

“Mr Vance is currently out of the…”

 

“Hi Miranda. I can handle this for Mr Vance.”  I step forward and smile.

 

“And you are?”  He demands.

 

“His PA. Let’s take this to my office.”  Miranda looks so relieved.

 

OFFICE

 

“Have a seat Mr…”

 

“Gold, Ethan Gold.”  He sits down and smiles.  “I have heard that Kinnetic has poached Seabird Enterprises from you.”

 

“And how is that?”  I sit back and wait for him to explain.

 

“I’m not sure but I know that he has signed them during a cruise that he won that VanGuard sponsored.”

 

“Well thank you very much for that information. That’s most interesting Mr Gold, was it?”  He nods. “I shall make sure that this is passed to Mr Vance. It would seem that Mr Kinney entered the competition with the intention of poaching clients. Thank you for bringing that to our attention.”

 

“You’re welcome.” He smiles and then walks out and then it hits me. The walk!  I recognise the walk. He’s always walked like he’s crapped his pants!

 

Yeah, I know who this guy is!  Now if I could just remember his name!  But I know it is not Gold!

 

SEABIRD ISLAND – LATE EVENING

 

BACK GARDEN

 

MEL

 

Poor Gus!  He wanted to tell Brian and Justin about his day.  But he lasted two bites into his sandwich and almost face planted into the plate, he is so tired.

 

“Oh that’s it, he’s done!”  Debs laughs and Carl scoops him up.  “Yeah no book is required tonight!”

 

Thirty minutes later, they are back.  “So what happens now?  This is our last full day here.”  I sigh, rubbing Bumpy.  “Wow!  Is it me or has Bumpy gotten bigger?”  I stare at my stomach.

 

“Yep and that’s not the only thing…or should I say things!”  Emmy laughs.  “Not that I see Miss Leda complaining!”

 

“Ah the wanderers return!”  Ben calls out and I turn to see Brian and Justin coming back from their walk.

 

“Where’s Gus?”  Brian look around.

 

“Bed.  He really tried but lasted two bites.  Carl took him up.”

 

“Oh. Okay.”  Brian replies and they both look so disappointed.

 

“How about I do a nice big breakfast for tomorrow morning for us all?”  Franc suggests.

 

“Asshole!”  Cynthia snarls, glaring at her phone.

 

“Or not.”  Franc snorts.  “What’s wrong?”

 

“Got a text from Vance’s PA. Ethan Gold came to see him to tell him about Seabird being poached by Kinnetic!  But…”

 

“We didn’t poach!  We were approached!”  Brian objects.

 

“And we will write a sworn affidavit to that effect.”  Rupert is already reaching for his phone.

 

“He’s in California.”  Franc huffs an angry breath.  “Seems my brother can’t stay away from his pet.”

 

“It was Michael. Brian, Michael went to see Vance.  Caroline remembered his voice and his walks-like-he’s-crapped-his-pants stomp.  But she couldn’t remember his name. She sent me this.”  She hands him her phone and he watches it in silence before handing it to Ted to watch.

 

“Why is he doing this?”  Brian sighs.

 

“Because he wants you.”  Rodney replies and everyone turns to look at him.  “I’ve been giving this some thought, bear with me.  Normally, when you trick, it’s with guys with dark hair and dark eyes, right?  Maybe he thinks you are trying to fuck him out of your system?  Can I see that, please?  I have another hunch.”

 

He watches it quietly and then nods. “He says you won. You say you never entered the competition for this, correct?”  Brian nods. “Well supposing you didn’t but Michael did? From what I’ve heard, he has access to pretty much all aspects of your life. Supposing he rigged the competition to get you alone but then you put the kibosh on it by bringing everyone else?”

 

“Oooh ick. Just no!”  Brian cringes. That at least makes people laugh, albeit briefly.  “But by going to VanGuard, this could cause a problem.” Brian starts to get annoyed but Justin taking his hand seems to calm him down a bit.

 

“Why? You’ve been out of that place for years.” Debs asks.

 

“I’ve never gone after any of his clients deliberately and…”

 

“Thank you very much! I know I was pissed with you then but I still did my job properly.”  I grouse.

 

“Pardon?”  He frowns at me and I smile at him while Ted snickers.

 

“I looked over your contract, remember? Just after they fired you, I went over that damn thing with a fine-tooth comb and nowhere did it have a non-competition clause. So he can shout and stomp as much as he wants, you’ve got nothing to worry about... well except for Michael.”

 

The looks of relief ripple around the table.

 

“Okay who’s for canasta?”  Carl asks.  “I want to at least try and win some of my money back!”

 

DAY 28 – EARLY MORNING

 

KITCHEN

 

FRANC

 

I absolutely love cooking on my downtime, as I have free reign. I’m trying to figure out what to make for the big breakfast when there is a knock at the door and Leather Bear pokes his head in.

 

“Morning Leather Bear, morning Gus.”

 

“Morning Miss Franc. Momma said you’re making a big breakfast today. Can I help?”  I smile and nod.  “What are we doing?”

 

“Yes, what are we doing Franc?”  Emmy sweeps in bestowing kisses on both of us.

 

“Well…”  I laugh.  “I’m hoping to use the cherries for something, if there are any left Gus.”

 

He looks at me as innocently as he can with cheeks like a squirrel hoarding nuts.

 

“Crepe machine? You have a crepe machine?!”  Emmy glowers at me and then smiles.  “Now Gus, come stand here. You must leave those strawberries alone too, young sir.  You need to carefully carry those back to the table over there okay?”  He hands him a box of eggs and smiles.

 

Ten minutes later, he’s carefully cracked each egg in the bowl and is watching Emmy pour in the milk. It’s when he rolls up his sleeves with his tongue between his teeth that I realise how much I’m going to miss the little guy.

 

TERRACE – ONE HOUR LATER

 

EMMY

 

I still can’t believe we are going back to Pittsburgh in four days. We’re all a little subdued... well apart from Debs and Vic. They, at least, will get to see Carl and Rodney.  But Gus is chattering away and lightening the mood.

 

The spread that Franc and I have whipped up almost didn’t make it to the table.  If we weren’t shooing out Debs for trying to help, we were shooing out Brian who seems to have a big fondness for cherries. In the end, we had to call in Ben to make sure he stayed out of the kitchen.

 

We ate the fruit first. She’s done this marvellous fruit salad with strawberries, cherries, blueberries and dragon fruit. Well I’m going to assume it was marvellous as Brian insisted that everyone help themselves but the bowl never left his side after that. Between him and Justin, they ate the remains and had the nerve to look at us as if butter wouldn’t melt.

 

“Oh God take that away!”  Brian groans as he tastes the ricotta.  “Where did you get that?”

 

“Made it.”  Franc replies going back to the kitchen.

 

“You made this?”  I echo when she comes back.  “How?”

 

“Acid, like a vinegar or lemon, and milk, in a muslin cloth over a bowl overnight in the fridge, let it drain, add your herbs of choice and there you have it.”

 

“No, please move it away from me or it goes the same way as the salad.”  Brian orders and Ted swiftly obliges, much to chagrin of Justin.

 

“Do you remember the jerk chicken butter?” Veri smiles proudly at the retreating back of Franc and Rupert nods. “It was about a pound and a half of this thing and we were like what, nobody is going to eat that. It lasted about ooh 10 minutes, there were 15 people she never got to taste it!  Ooh she was pissed, especially when she found out that Rupert had stashed some away. So good with scrambled eggs and ham.”

 

“Franc, come on and sit down!”  Rupert shouts out.

 

“One more thing and we can start!”  She calls out.

 

She comes back out with a platter of fried fish. “Gus, this fish has a lot of bones, so I’ve made you some salmon, okay?”  But he looks so disappointed as the fish looks excellent, not a drop of grease, that she relents.  “Are you sure you want to try this?”

 

“Yes please, please.”

 

“Okay, let’s see what I can do here.”  She smiles at him and picks up a fish and expertly fillets it off the bone and then hands the plate to Brian. “Can you check for bones?”

 

Five minutes later, Gus is happily eating his fish.  “Miss Franc, this is so nice!  What is it called?”

 

“Jacks.  Do you want another one?”

 

“I’ll do it. You’ve done enough.”  Debs orders.

 

We’ve finished the most wonderful breakfast, everyone lost in their own thoughts.

 

“Miss Leda?”  Gus looks at her with such a sad expression.

 

“Yes Gus.”

 

“Are you going to miss me and Momma when we go back home?”

 

“Oh very much. But…”

 

A tear drops onto his plate. “C-can’t you come with us? You make momma so happy.”

 

“And she makes me happy.  And we need…”

 

“I promise I will be good all the time.”  He sniffles.

 

“Gus.  Can I talk for a minute?”  Leda asks and he nods.  “Do you know where I live?”

 

“On the ship.”

 

“No, not all the time. I live on land for half the year and guess where that is?”  Leda and Mel are grinning at each other.

 

“I don’t know.”

 

“Pittsburgh.”

 

“We live in…you’ll be able to come and see us!”  Gus cries, flinging his arms around her neck.

 

“That’s the idea!  You’d like that, right?  Gus…need to breathe!”

 

“Oh yes, I’d love that!”  Gus loosens his hold and she takes in some much needed air.  “Momma would love that too, wouldn’t you momma?”

 

“Yes I would very much.”

 

“So what do I call you when you’re in Pittsburgh?”

 

“How about Auntie Leda?  Would that be okay?”

 

“Oh, I was hoping to call you Momma Leda.”

 

Tears immediately spring into her eyes and she looks at Mel, who nods.  “Okay, you can call me that instead.”

 

“Yay!”  Gus wriggles in his seat.

 

“So Pittsburgh, Leda?  That’s nice.”  I sigh and try not to look at Ben.

 

“They are all based in Pittsburgh, well apart from Franc, who is based in New York.”  Rupert takes a measured sip of his drink. “That was another of Franc’s great ideas. If only Ray had half her work ethic. Put staff who are close city wise together so when they are on their shore leave, they at least have some people around them.”

 

“Shore leave?”  I look around the table and they are smiling, especially Ben.

 

“Yeah, it starts about a week after you get back to Pittsburgh. For six months.” Ben explains.

 

“You’re going to be in Pittsburgh for six months?” I echo and he nods. “You mean I have been preparing this tearful goodbye to rival Lana Turner for nothing?! You go upstairs and wait!  And you Franc... you and I are going to talk about being in my catering business for the duration of your shore leave, none of this New York rubbish.  Now excuse me, I need to teach someone a little lesson!”

 

I run from the table to sounds of laughter.

 

GUS

 

“Mr Justin?”

 

“Yes Gus.”

 

“Are you going to see daddy and me?”

 

“Yes.  Definitely.  And you’re going to see Rhubarb and Custard as well.”

 

“Daddy, my cheeks are hurting again!”  I tell him and he laughs.

 

“Mine too.”

 

“Mr Justin, can I call you Papa Justin in Pittsburgh?”

 

“Yes, I would love it if you called me that.”  Mr Justin gives a big smile.

 

“And daddy…”  I continue.  “Please don’t send me outside when you and Mr Justin are doing big-big kisses in Pittsburgh. It’s not as warm as here!”

 

 

“Okay Gus, we won’t.”  And Daddy smiles the biggest smile I’ve ever seen. I like it!

CHAPTER 17 – COMING HOME

 

PITTSBURGH QUAYSIDE – END OF CRUISE

 

BRIAN

 

This is proving more than a little tough for Gus!  Leda didn’t generate this amount of tears.

 

“You p-p-promise?” He whimpers, clutching onto Justin as tightly as a four year old boy can.

 

“I Leather Bear promise, Gus.” Justin is very close to tears too and he looks pleadingly at me.

 

“Gus. Now come on, you will see him in a week. That’s only 7 sleeps.” I try to explain but he’s not having it.

 

“But daddy!” He wails. “That’s a lot of sleeps!”

 

“Justin, got a minute.” Franc, who was talking to Cyn, calls out.

 

We manage to gently loosen Gus’s hold and Justin heads towards them. There’s whispering, nodding and smiling. Why are they smiling?

 

“Be right back!” Justin yells and dashes back up the gangplank. Ten very long and tear filled minutes later, Justin is coming back down with a crate…oh crap!

 

“Gus?” Justin calls out but Gus has his face in my neck, sobbing his little heart out. “Gus, can you look at me please?” Gus slowly but surely turns to look at him. “If I wasn’t coming back to see you and daddy, would I leave Custard for you to look after?”

 

Gus looks down and then back up quickly, almost catching his head on my chin.

 

“Custard!  Custard is staying with us?!”

 

“Yes, Custard is staying with us.” I tell him. “And you and momma are staying with me in the big house until Mr Justin and Miss Leda come, okay?”

 

“Daddy! I love you so much!  But I need to check that Custard is okay.” I put him down and once he’s on the ground, he starts to open the crate.

 

“No Gus, you can’t do that now. Let’s get him back home; it’s much too busy here.”

 

“Okay daddy!  Mr…I mean Papa Justin, can I read to Custard while we wait for our things?”

 

“Yes you can.”

 

I take his hand and pull him to a quiet corner. “Seven sleeps. It’s a long time without my favourite bed mate…well the human kind.”

 

“Human kind?” He frowns.

 

“Custard and I understand each other, bed wise. Rhubarb tends to sprawl.”

 

“I see.” He smiles then wraps his arms round me. “Seven sleeps. What’s do you think of phone sex?”

 

“I expect a call at nine.” Before he can say anything, I kiss him until Emmy taps me on the shoulder.

 

“Enough already! You’re hips are moving and he’s starting to climb!” He hisses.

 

I drop my head onto Justin’s and sigh. “Another long seven days!”

 

“You don’t have to…”

 

“Another long seven days.” I tell him firmly.

 

BRITIN – TWO DAYS LATER, EARLY MORNING

 

KITCHEN

 

BRIAN

 

Custard has made himself very much at home. Mercifully, he seems to understand that he craps outside and yowls until one of us lets him out. Pretty much like he’s doing right now!

 

“Alright for crying out loud!” I grumble and head to the back door. As I open it, he heads outside and ten minutes later, he comes back in. And after shaking himself because of the rain, I dry him off a bit before I head back to bed with him in my wake.

 

An hour later, Gus is knocking on the door. “Daddy!  Are you and Custard awake?”

 

“Yes Sonny Boy, come in!” I call out and he comes in with his book to read for an hour.

 

Gus has gone back to sleep, so I leave him and Custard in bed then head downstairs to begin my working day.

 

KINNETIC – AN HOUR LATER

 

CAR PARK

 

CYNTHIA

 

Oh, you have got to be kidding me?! I had to come back to my car because I left a folder in it and when I finally found the damn thing under the back of the front seat, I spotted him. Michael is across the road! I really want to go over there and hit him again but ignoring him is so much better.

 

TED’S OFFICE

 

TED

 

“He still outside?” I ask Cyn as she comes in.

 

“Yeah. We should tell Brian now since he’s clearly waiting for him. He’s in tomorrow. Let’s not have him walk into a Novotny surprise.”

 

“Good. Let’s prep for the morning meeting and I’ll tell him at the end.”

 

DINER – AFTERNOON

 

DEBS

 

As much as I loved the cruise, it is great to be back. Kiki is delighted with the jewellery I got for her and it’s wonderful to see my other family again. But even better, Carl has been coming around.

 

“Ma. You’re back.”

 

It takes everything for me not to throw the coffee pot at him, but Brian made us promise to let him deal with Michael.

 

“Michael. How are you?”

 

“Oh just great! My best friend had me thrown off the ship and my mother did nothing to stop it!” He hisses surprisingly quietly. “Is Brian back too? I’ve been trying to catch him at the loft or at work.”

 

Oh, I’ll just bet you have!

 

“Oh, you know Brian.” I reply as calmly as I can.

 

“I thought I did ma... I really did think I did.” He turns around and starts to walk out slowly.

 

Previously, I would’ve called him back and given him lunch and then talked to the cause of his problem.  But not anymore, not after what I saw.

 

“Debs, is everything okay?” Kiki asks quietly. “Does this require cocktails and maybe show and tell of what I bought in your absence?”

 

“Yeah it does.”  I smile at her and head back to my section.

 

DINER – THURSDAY LUNCH TIME

 

DEBS

 

I feel so much better having spoken to Kiki a couple of evenings ago. She told me she’s been waiting for years for me to stop running after Michael. In fact, everyone on the Avenue has; I had no idea I did it so much!

 

Gus is coming to meet his uncles, Carl, Rodney and Vic for lunch today. Carl said last night he was missing his little guy. I did not have an ear to ear grin when he said that!

 

“Grandma!” Gus calls out from the door and walks very carefully towards me. He’s remembered what Franc said and I’m so proud!

 

“Hey sweetheart, Mel…good grief living with Brian is working wonders for Bumpy!  Go sit in the booth at the back you two. The guys will be here soon.”

 

Right on cue, they come in and with a wink, Carl leads the way.

 

“Uncle Carl! Oh, I’m so pleased to see you! And you Uncle Rodney! What are we going to have for lunch? Can I order for us all?” Gus rattles off questions so fast that he hasn’t noticed the booth next to him, filling up.

 

“We’ve already ordered Gus. Because it’s such a big table.” I tell him, putting down his usual milkshake.

 

Gus looks up and then around the booth. “But there’s only five of us grandma. Oh hello Auntie Emmy, Uncle Ted, what are you doing here?”

 

“Well I heard that you were having lunch so we thought we would join you. Is that okay?”  Ems replies smiling.

 

“Oh yes!”  He grins.

 

“Can I join you Sonny Boy?”

 

“Daddy? Oh, this makes me member when we were on the boat with everyone else…”  He trails off.  “How many more sleeps, daddy?”

 

“It’s remember and no more sleeps, Gus.”

 

Gus looks up from the table and just stares at his Mr Justin smiling at him. Immediately, he bursts into tears.

 

“Oh Gus!  Don’t cry!” Mel tries to soothe him.

 

“I’m so happy Momma; I can’t help it!”  He sniffles.  “Eve…everyone is here!”  He cries and I can feel myself filling up.

 

“Yeah we’re all here.” Ben gives Ems a sweet kiss and slides in next to him.

 

“So Gus, are you going to tell us about the cruise?” Kiki asks. “We’ve not heard anything about it.”

 

“Can I tell, daddy?” Brian nods and settles him in between him and Justin as Gus begins.

 

“Well, at first, I didn’t think I would see daddy for a long time…”

 

Two hours later, the diner is still chuckling and smiling. Gus told of our adventures so well.  He takes after his father completely. It’s just him and Justin left in the booth.

 

“Come on Gus, we should really get back home.”

 

“Excuse me, but what are you doing with my son?” The imperious tone chills me to the bone.

 

What the fuck is Lindsay doing back?!

 

JUSTIN

 

“What the hell are you doing here?!” Michael’s whine distracts me for a minute and he glares at me.

 

“I’m taking Gus back to his father.” I reply to him before turning back to face who could only be Lindsay and then picking Gus up. “Come on Gus. Let’s go.”

 

“I asked you a question.” She glowers at me.

 

“Leaving. Pretty much like you did! Now excuse us.” Justin walks around her without looking back.

 

“Papa Justin, why is Unca Mikey staring at you like that?”

 

“I don’t know Gus.”

 

All I know is that I need to get to Brian!

 

KINNETIC – 30 MINUTES LATER

 

BRIAN’S OFFICE

 

BRIAN

 

Justin called me the moment he got in the cab and Gus is reading on the sofa.

 

“Cyn, how far is the car away?”

 

“Five minutes!” She calls out, looking out the window. “Ah, here she comes! You go and let me deal with her!” She states firmly.

 

“Come on Sonny Boy, we’re going home now.”  I call out.

 

CYNTHIA

 

I head to reception and watch the witch come in as if she has the right to be here after all she’s done.

 

“Can I help you?”

 

“I want to speak to Brian and…”

 

“He’s not here and you are not welcome. Please escort this person out of the building and don’t let her in here again.”

 

“You can’t do that!” She snaps.

 

“Did you see Michael’s face? One of those black eyes was from me…and I merely dislike him; you I detest!”

 

“I will speak to Brian about this!” She turns sharply on her heel before stopping the guard and turning back to me. “I don’t need your help and, you Cynthia, will soon be grovelling for your job!”

 

“I’m the COO of this company, so no, I won’t be grovelling for anything. You, however, are a bitchy witch with a slack twat, who nobody wants around. Now go!”

 

BRITIN – EARLY EVENING

 

KITCHEN

 

JUSTIN

 

We’ve had a light soup and some bread after the huge lunch.

 

“So what happened when Gus saw her?”

 

“He didn’t react to her but he did react to the way that Michael was looking at me.”

 

He heaves a sigh of relief. “Oh good. Hopefully that’s the end of it with Lindsay.  But somehow, I doubt it.”

 

“Me too, with both her and Michael. But right now, we have a much more important thing to discuss.” I take his cup out of his hand. “That’s a euphemism for get naked…mmm!”

 

The rest of my sentence disappears into the hotness of his mouth and we start to tear each other’s clothes off.

 

“It’s going to be quick!”  Brian growls, turning me over the table and opening a drawer.

 

“Less talking, more fucking!” I order and shiver with excitement as I hear the familiar rip and then hold on for dear life!