CHAPTER 45 - THE CALL OF ROMANCE

MICHAEL’S APARTMENT - TUESDAY EVENING

MICHAEL

There’s only one person who knocks like that. Well I am still not speaking to her! You’d think she’d get the hint by me ignoring her calls and texts. The knocking stops and I hear rustling as an envelope is pushed under the door. I wait for her feet to move from the door and then double check that she’s gone by watching her cross the road. No doubt she’s on the way to the diner.

I grab the envelope, open it and smile. Dinner is at Britin this weekend. Brian is finally giving me an opportunity to explain myself! Me being there means Blonde Ass won't be and nor will his damn cats. Once he understands why I did what I did and that I’m prepared to wait for him, we will be fine.

DINER

DEBS

I look up as Michael comes in, looking smug.

“Hi ma. I suppose you speaking to Brian was your way of apologising for the way you spoke to me? Apology accepted.”

And to think I was feeling a bit bad for what’s coming his way...well no more!

“Michael, what are you going to do when that cast comes off?”

“What do you mean?”

“You need to get a job.” I sigh.

“Well until the cast comes off, there’s no point of me looking, is there?” He replies suddenly scratching. “Well, are you going to pick me up and then we go to Britin?”

“I’ll have to speak to Carl as he’s driving, but we will already have Hunter and Daphne. Then there’s the food I’m taking... Why not ask Vic and Rodney to take you? You want to mend bridges with him too or did you forget?”

“Of course not. I was about to ask you if you have had time to speak to him.” But his eyes slide to the side.

He’s fixating again!

“Well do it now, so that it’s settled.” I prompt and he makes a big show of taking his phone out but I keep my glare fixed on him.

“H-hi Uncle Vic it’s me. I’m fine, my cast is still a bit itchy. I’m going to be coming to dinner on Sunday so I wondered if I could share a car with you and Rodney then we can clear the air?”

KINNETIC - THURSDAY MID-MORNING

RANDOLPH

I wave at Eliza as I come in. She’s on the phone but waves back...little did I know what that wave meant...

I open the door to Brian’s office and find him thrusting earnestly into Justin across his desk. On each thrust, he’s telling him that he must remember to have enough condoms next time and to keep quiet!

I feel a warm hand on my wrist and I am led out by Eliza. She takes me, chuckling, to Ted’s office, who frowns when we enter.

“He walked in…”

“Ah I see. Perhaps a coffee with a tot of brandy in it?” She nods and leaves, roaring with laughter.

“But-but it his place of business…” I trail off and take a huge sip of the coffee Eliza gives me.

“As did this place used to be...” Ted snickers and then grins. “This used to be the old baths where he was a regular. And everyone knows, well apart from you and Justin, that the last Thursday of each 3rd month is the day that we tell Brian how much we’ve earned in the previous quarter. Last quarter was particularly good!”

I envy him a little. “So um, when do you think I can see him?”

“We tend to give him an hour.”

“Wait a minute. Before Justin what did he do?” I ask.

“Edge himself.” Ted replies calmly. “He’s the master of it.”

“Have you and Brian ever…?”

“Oh God, no!” He shudders. “Have you seen the size of that thing?!”

“Well yes!”

“So you and George Schickle? A second date in the offing?”

I blush and smile. “Yes but…” I pause when the door knocks and it opens to reveal Eliza.

“Ted, Mr Charles…” Eliza begins.

“Randolph please, I think it’s safe to say we’re all friends here now!”

“Fine, Randolph it is, Brian said he will meet you both in conference room 2.”

CONFERENCE ROOM 2

BRIAN

When Eliza told us that Randolph walked in on us, Justin refused point blank to come out of the office, citing embarrassment and jello legs. All I could think about the latter when I sauntered to the conference room was my work is done!

“So now that you have finished celebrating your last quarter, I have found a way of getting Dr Ivy, I mean David Cameron, to Alleghany.” Randolph’s eyes twinkle.

“And that would be?”

“He’s applied for the orthopaedic surgeon position at Alleghany and I merely suggested that he strongly be considered…”

“So when does he start?” Ted smiles.

“In a week. But what is going to happen about Gus? From what I’ve heard, he’s become less enamoured of Michael…”

“And you know for a fact that he will think that Justin is not going to be there.” Ted points out.

“That’s Justin’s home, where else would he be?!” I bridle. “He’ll just have to take antihistamines and have done! Let me call Debs.”

ALLEGHANY HOSPITAL - FRIDAY MORNING

DIRECTOR OF HR’S OFFICE

DAVID CAMERON

“Well thank you. I am delighted to be able to take up this opportunity.” I stand and shake his hand. As I head outside, I turn in surprise as someone calls my name. I look around and find myself astonished as Francesca Charles-Prince walks towards me, helping a rather gorgeous looking man.

“Francesca!” I grin and greet her with a hug, while checking him over.

“What are you doing here? You are looking good!”

“Thank you…” I preen. “And who is this gentleman, a friend of yours?”

“Yes, this is Markus Deacon. Markus, this is David Cameron.”

I take my time releasing his hand. What a tasty morsel.

“Nice to meet you David. Can we get going babe? I don’t want to be late for physio.”

Babe...dammit!

“Sure. Look David, here’s my number. Call me this evening so we can catch up. The family would love to see you again.”

“Really?! That’s great! It will be nice to have a friend in Pittsburgh; I don’t know anyone. How is Ray?”

“He’s fine, but let’s talk all about that later. I’ve got to get him in. Call me around seven, yeah?”

“Absolutely. Bye Markus, good luck with physio.”

“Thanks. Bye.”

OUTSIDE PHYSIO OFFICE

MARKUS

“Promise me something?” She nods and smirks. “Never leave me alone with him while I am still incapacitated!”

“Why ever not?” She laughs.

“I’ve seen starving wolves salivate with more discretion!” I shudder.

“Oh you poor baby!” She laughs and kisses my cheek.

“I love you, you know that right?”

“I do now.” She grins.

“Markus come on in my man!” Junta, my physio, calls out and just before the door closes, I see her sitting there still grinning!

“Could you?” I smile at my him, he chuckles and goes to get her.

“Shush!” She chides me...she’s still grinning and now so am I!

INSIDE VIC AND RODNEY’S CAR - SUNDAY MORNING

RODNEY

“Like I said Uncle Vic, I made a simple mistake...” Michael bleats and I roll my eyes.

Think of the greater good...the greater good!

By the time we get to Britin, I am praying for Custard to leap on his face! Antihistamines or not!

BRITIN

MICHAEL

As we pull up, I just stare at it. Now this is my idea of a home! As I get out the car, I smile...oh yes, I could get used to this!

“Michael! Come back and help with the food in the car!” Rodney orders.

“I have a broken arm, Rodney.” I point out.

“Then carry one bag and imagine it holds your comics.” He retorts and holds out a bag. I sigh and take the bag, making sure to wince when I do so.

“Wrong arm, Michael…it’s the broken one that’s supposed to hurt.” Rodney snipes. “You can go now.”

What the hell does Uncle Vic see in him?!

“Where did you say it was, Gus?!” A little black girl dashes out of the front door.

“Wait Chandra!” I hear Mel call out. “It’s in the barn. Let me get it for you!”

Chandra runs back in and for some reason Uncle Vic is smiling. “Hello! Brian?!” I call out as I enter.

“Vic, Rodney!” Leda dashes passed me. “Have you seen Mel?!”

“Barn.” Rodney laughs.

“Thanks!” She runs to the barn and I look at Uncle Vic for an explanation.

“Collar. He sometimes forgets to put them back on when he brushes them in there.”

“Well don't just stand there. Come into the kitchen!” Ma orders.

I follow her into the kitchen and sigh. My lounge and bedroom can fit in here. I’m surprised to see Ray’s dad and stepmom here. I pray that they don't mention the restitution! But they seem to be in a friendly enough mood today.

“How’s your arm, Michael?” She asks. “Isn't the cast due to be changed soon?”

“Yes, next week. Still very painful though.”

“I’ll bet.”

“Do you know where Brian is?” I ask, slightly put out that he didn't greet me at the door.

“Study.” She replies, helping Ma to unload the food.

I swallow down my irritation. “And that would be where?”

“Oh yes you’ve not been shown around, have you?” Rupert sounds like he's sneering.

“No, so…”

“I’ll take you, Michael.” Emmett appears from nowhere. “Come on. You can take off your shoes since there's underfloor heating.” He pauses outside a door and knocks, then pokes his head in. “Michael is here. You good?” He steps aside and closes the door after me.

I just look around for a minute before finally looking at Brian and smile. Although he smiles back, it's not as warm as before.

“Well you wanted to explain, so do so.” His voice is colder too.

“Can I sit down?”

“Your antihistamines seem to be working fine.” He says and I frown. He points behind me and stretched along the sofa is one of those fucking cats! It opens its eyes and gets up. Internally I sigh in relief as it moves away, thinking that the pussy is going to leave. But then it hops on the desk and lies down, making itself comfortable as Brian rubs its belly. “So?”

“Can you get the cat taken away?” I sniff slightly. Even though the meds are working, I don't want him to be distracted.

“No, this is Custard’s den.”

“Fine…” I huff and move a chair so I can sit as close as I can. “I made mistake.  I thought you were ready to take this to the next level now and you aren't. I heard what you said before and understand now that you want to experience what you think is love with Bl...Justin. And I’m happy for you to do that and I will date too, until you are ready. As for what I did on the cruise ship, it was pure frustration that we weren't spending time together like I planned…” I put my hand up when he goes to speak. “And going to VanGuard when I got back again was frustration. I am also hurt that you had the locks changed and still have yet to give me my copy of the key. But I suppose that can wait until you and Justin are no longer using it.” I smile at him and he is just staring at me.

“So what you are saying is that you are giving me permission to date Justin?”

“Well, essentially yes, as long as you realise I will be dating too. I think that’s a fair arrangement. I’ve realised that you’ve never experienced dating...neither of us have, so it’s a chance for us to iron out the dating kinks.”

“Dating kinks? Yes those need to be ironed out…” He mutters.

“Great! I knew we would be fine once I could explain. Though…” I give him the look. “I have a hospital appointment next week to change this cast, could…”

The door knocks and Gus comes in. “Daddy it’s…”

“Hello Gus! How are you? Aren't you going to say hello to your favourite uncle and your daddy’s best friend?”

“I said hello to papa when we were having reading time in bed with daddy this morning and I haven't seen Uncle Ben yet. He’s doing something for momma at the house with papa.” Gus frowns. “Shall I call them daddy?”

“No Gus, I mean…” I start to explain.

“You have an owie? How'd that happen Uncle Michael?” Gus peers at my arm.

“I fell over and…”

There is a beeping noise and the cat stretches and hops off the desk. “It's now Ruby time, daddy. That's why I came in…”

“Of course, Gus.” The cat makes a noise and sits at the door, staring at Brian. “Yes, yes Custard I’m going. Michael, I’ll see you in an hour.”

“An hour?  Why?”

Come on daddy!” Gus demands…since when did he sound so bratty?

Brian waits for me to leave and then locks the door. I start to follow him and the cat upstairs.

“Michael, where are you going?” Mel calls out. “Come to the kitchen and help us with the prep. This is Ruby time…” I look at Brian’s retreating back but he doesn’t turn round. The cat settles down at the top of the stairs and just stares at me.

KITCHEN

MEL

“Michael come on!”

The fucking nerve of him! Wanting to follow Brian like that! I wait till he sinks into the seat like he’s in so much pain!

“May I have some water? I need to take my tablets.” He sighs.

“Tablets?” Blake looks at him. “What kind are they? You shouldn't be taking anything prescribed now, especially not with antihistamines.”

“Not prescribed, just some painkillers...my arm still aches.”

“Have you been doing the exercises the doctor said you should do, so that your muscle and tendon wouldn't stiffen?” Debs asks frowning.

“I need someone to help me with that…” He laments.

Jesus, does he need a trowel so he can lay it on thicker?!

“Why do you need help? Just lift your arm for about five reps slowly, just to keep it moving. Actually, why don't we have a quick look?” Blake asks and stands in front of Michael. I can't look at Ted, who is shaking. “Daphne, can you get a bowl of water and a cloth? We may have to do a clean-up job…”

“That’s not necessary!” Michael objects.

“Michael, can you just let Blake and Daphne help you please?” Vic asks.

“Okay Uncle Vic.” He gets up and follows Blake and Daph out.

LOWER BATHROOM

DAPH

Oh holy hell, has this man ever heard of soap and deodorant?! How doesn't he smell that one side of his body is beyond funky?!

“Michael, you need to keep the area round your cast clean. You don't want an infection to build up.” I tell him.

“I’m back in my apartment as you know Daphne. I can't do this arm as I’m…”

“It doesn't smell like you’ve even tried! I think you need to have an actual bath; a shower is not going to cut it. Blake, he’s all yours. I’ll get the shower stuff!”

“I don't have a change of clothes…” He whines.

“Michael, come on. I don't intend to spend all afternoon in here with you! Daph, can you ask Mel for Gus’s shower gel…”

“Sure.” I shake my head at Michael and go to find Mel. Just as the door closes, I hear Blake ordering him to strip and I shudder!

RUBY’S ROOM

BRIAN

I adjust Ruby in my arms. She’s definitely got my eyes and Justin thinks my mouth.

“Oh Ruby, what am I going to do when you are old enough to date?”

I think back to the conversation I’ve just sat through. I can’t wait for Justin to hear it! I am so relieved he wasn’t here because I would’ve told him immediately. And as much as a hardship it would’ve been, I would have had to fuck him unconscious to stop him from killing Michael!

“Daddy?” Gus whispers, coming towards me. “Here’s her bottle.”

“She’s not asleep, Sonny Boy. Want to read to her for a bit?”

“No daddy…” I frown. He normally loves spending time with Ruby. “This is your time with Ruby and if papa can’t interrupt then neither can I. It’s not fair. I’ll see you later.” He whispers and after blowing two kisses, he closes the door quietly.

“What am I going to when he dates?!” I lament to a bemused looking Ruby. “Whoever gets him is going to be so very lucky!”

She gurgles and then blows a bubble. I put her on her mat for a moment so I can test her bottle. She just waves her arms and legs.

“Come here beautiful girl, let’s get you fed.” I kiss the top of her head and start to feed my daughter.

MICHAEL

I am so humiliated! Not only did I have to strip in front of Blake, but he insisted on actually watching me wash to make sure that I was doing it right. I have been washing myself for years! As I make my way back upstairs, Brian is coming down and he has Ruby with him.

“Oh, isn’t she adorable!” I coo in a stepdaddy kind of way. “Can I have a hold of my niece?”

“Still Ruby Time.” Brian says and adjusts her on his shoulder.

“Uh Brian...she’s been sick.” I cringe at the marks down his back.

“That’s what happens with babies.” He shrugs and makes his way to the kitchen. I trail behind him, trying not to look at the sick down the back of his shirt. “Hey! When did you get back?”

I look around him and he’s talking to Blonde Ass!

“Just now. How’s my little girl? Can I get some loving?” He asks and I smirk as it’s still Ruby Time.

“Yes papa!” Gus pipes up, startling me as I hadn’t seen him at the table. Before I can say anything, Brian has given her to him. I decide on a different approach and go to sit next to Gus.

“So who’s the little girl I saw earlier? Her name is Chandra, I think.”

“Chandra. Yes, she’s my best friend. We’re having a tootsie day today!” Gus tells me.

“Tootsie?” I look around trying not to show my irritation at the knowing looks and smiles.

“Tootsie Day…” Ma chuckles. “Is when we all get out toenails painted by Gus and Chandra under supervision and today it’s Rodney’s turn to supervise. And…”

“Oh Ruby!” Justin cries out as she throws up on him. I hold in my snicker.

“Okay, enough. We’re swapping back.” Leda states, taking her off him and I see frowns abounding. “Debs, can you do some gripe water?” Ma nods and starts doing whatever the fuck it is she’s supposed to do!

“Leda, don’t worry. Babies take time to adjust to new things and it’s only been a few days.” Veri tells her.

“Yeah, Michael took ages to adjust to anything.” Ma calls out over her shoulder.

“Shooting fish.” Franc snickers as she comes in with two elderly gentlemen one of whom clears his throat firmly. “I mean, hi Michael.”

“Dad and this must be George!” Veri gets up and embraces one and shakes hands with the other.

Seriously, who the fuck are these people walking freely into my house?!

“So Brian, are you going to show me around ou- the house?” I turn to my best friend. Hopefully no one noticed what I almost said.

“No. I need to get changed out of this shirt and so does Justin. We’ll be back in an hour.”

“How can changing a shirt take an hour?” I grouse.

“He has to wash his hair.” Blonde Ass states.

“What on earth are you…” I begin and then watch incredulously as Justin tips an entire bowl of dressed salad over Brian’s head!

The kitchen goes quiet, apart from the giggling of Gus. “Papa, you are in trouble!” He declares.

“So much.” Brian growls, throwing him over his shoulder and with a smack to his fat ass, stalks out.

“Shall we eat without you?!” Uncle Vic calls out.

“Yeah, since I’m going to be eating without you!” Brian shouts back.