Brian:

Tim Callen stood up and walked toward Brian, reaching out his hand to shake Brian's.  Brian complied and the men stood eyeing each other for a few moments.  The assistant came around her desk and led them to the small conference room where Tim had interviewed Justin just a few weeks ago. 

"Tim, the room's yours for the next hour, but I'm afraid that's all I can give you." She unlocked the door and turned on the lights. 

"That's fine.  I promised Carol I wouldn't take much of Mr. Kinney's time."  He smiled at the assistant and motioned his hand towards the table for Brian to have a seat.  Brian seated himself at the table and waited for Tim Callen to sit down.

Tim looked at Brian and noted the contrast between him and Justin.  Physically they were opposites in almost every way. Where Justin was short, Brian was tall and their coloring was the exact opposite as well.  He imagined they would make a stunning couple when they were out. The fact that he was here and had asked to talk with him said volumes as well.  He knew that Justin Taylor was a very talented young man and living in New York was a talent in and of itself. New York would eat you up and spit you on the sidewalk if you weren't careful.  The young artist he met a few weeks ago had a strong survival mindset.  He was anxious to interview his partner, hoping to get some additional insight into what made Justin Taylor's art so exquisite, especially for someone so young. 

Even though Brian had asked Carol to set up the interview, he doubted it was out of sheer niceness.  He needed to gain Mr. Kinney's trust and acceptance in a quick manner.  "Mr. Taylor is a very talented artist.  His use of color and texture is refreshing in today's art world.  So many new artists want to copy what others are doing.  Mr. Taylor seems to have managed to pursue his own calling."  Tim started out his interview with his praise of Justin, hoping this would encourage Brian to talk openly about Justin. 

"He is very talented.  I'm glad we agree in that area."  Brian liked what Mr. Callen had said, but was keeping his answers short and to the point.  He didn't want to give any opening for questions he didn't want to answer.

"He told me you were his inspiration.  What do you think he means by that statement?"

Brian thought about his answer for a few minutes.  He wanted to reach over and pull the man by his collar and tell him to leave Justin alone, never talk to him, never approach him, but he also realized that there would be consequences to those actions.  First being, Justin would kill him or at least withhold sex until after the show.  He was already so paranoid about his abilities and if he found that Brian threatened the critic, he would most likely come to the wrong conclusion, that he was only giving him praise for his work because he was afraid of Brian.  Brian could be threatening when he needed to be and he was going to make it very clear to Mr. Tim Callen that he was never to mention Justin's dancing or approach Justin in any capacity except as a critic. The second consequence would be that Justin's talent would be overlooked as a result of the attention placed on him.  He needed to gain Tim Callen's trust while at the same time making it crystal clear that Justin was off limits except for promotional purposes.

"I think you have to ask him that question.  I'm not going to speculate on his thinking process."

"Ah you are a wise man," Tim said as he smiled at Brian.  "Has he always painted?  Many artists choose one outlet over another.  I'm curious if he started out with another avenue."

"He used to draw but paints mostly now."  Brian chose not to elaborate on this question. Justin hated people knowing about the bashing and even though it didn't appear to affect him, Brian knew better, as did Justin.  When Justin's hand got tired, he had to stop or pay the price for many hours.  This was an ongoing frustration for Justin as his muse didn't stop when his hand gave out.  Brian often saw the familiar rage of frustration when his hand did not keep up with his desire.  While it had definitely improved over the years, it still plagued him and he was certain that this would always be the case. 

Brian wondered why Tim Callen was asking him these questions as they appeared to be ones that he would have asked Justin, unless Justin freaked out so much at the initial interview and he didn't ask them.  Of course, there could be another explanation; one that he didn't want to think about.  He didn't really want to think that Justin had been harassed and hounded by this man to go out with him or perform other activities that the interview never occurred.  He dismissed that idea immediately.  While it took Justin a few days to tell him the truth, he wouldn't have kept that information from Brian.

"I'm not the renowned critic that you are, but it seems to me these are questions you would have asked Justin.  Why are you asking me?"

"Good point.  I've found that interviewing significant people in an artist's life often gives me insight into their work.  And today is no different.  You've provided me some wonderful information regarding your partner."

Brian raised his eyebrows and tilted his head slightly.  "Do tell."

"You and Mr. Taylor have been together for a while and while neither of you will state the obvious, his paintings reflect that partnership.  He stated you are his inspiration, leading me to believe that his return to Pittsburgh was fueled by his desire to be near you.  Carol's agreement to have him come in town a few days at a time and be seen and heard is a testament to her belief in his talent and willingness to work with this unconventional arrangement."

"I see."  Brian's refusal in denying or admitting the correctness of the statement was just as powerful as if Brian said yes.  "Go on," Brian directed, starting to admire this man, despite his connection with Justin when he was dancing.

"You obviously know his history as an artist and again your succinct statement regarding his past history with drawing makes me wonder why he changed.  You did not elaborate on the flow from one choice to the next which leads me to believe there are some pretty specific reasons for the change, but that you don't want to share those.

"Mr. Taylor has an intense presence on canvas.  The viewer can almost sense the feelings that emanate from each piece.  He's telling a story through his art and I imagine if you know him well enough, those paintings don't hide much. He paints because that is what he must do, just as you and I breathe, he paints.  Asking an artist what he was thinking when he made this piece or another piece is like asking why someone breathes.  I very much look forward to seeing his work and can't wait to see the entire show."

"Mr. Callen, let me make OUR position very clear.  Justin will respond to an interview with you, but there will never, and I mean never be anything beyond an interview.  Your presence in this room had him convinced that his career was over, ruined by his dancing.  Which by the way he did to support himself so he could have time to paint."  Brian made a steeple with his hands and placed his elbows on the table as he clearly and concisely laid out his thoughts.

"Do I make myself clear?"

Tim Callen smiled and nodded his head.  "I never meant to make him uncomfortable.  I would never reveal how I met him.  As far as the public is concerned, I know Mr. Taylor as a critic and that is all.  His talent is too valuable to waste."

"Good.  I'm glad that we agree.  I think this interview is over."

"Thank you for your time, Mr. Kinney."

"Don't thank me.  My only purpose in talking to you is to assure your interactions with Justin are limited to your critique of his work.  I could give a rat's ass about anything else."  With that statement Brian pushed his seat away from the table and walked to the door.

Tim Callen smiled as he had garnered so much from these short 15 minutes.  Justin had a partner that was fiercely protective of him and there was so much more to Justin Taylor than being a talented artist.  He wondered about the change in mediums, thought there was more to that story, but decided he wouldn't pursue it at this time.  Carol had made it very clear.  Justin Taylor was golden and she expected great things from him.  She was rarely wrong and the interview with his partner made Tim reaffirm that opinion.  Mr. Kinney was just as fierce and ruthless as Justin Taylor.  Justin Taylor would have to have a strong personality to partner with such a man.  His admiration of the young artist grew and he could not wait for the full show.  He had a feeling the write up from that show would be the talk of the town for many weeks after its premier.

Justin:

Carol watched Brian leave and studied Justin for a few moments.  He was a very talented young man but there was a vulnerability about him that made him a little different.  The first time she met him, she noticed it.  It wasn't the insecurity of an undiscovered artist, but rather a young man who believed in his art but had experienced setbacks.  Even that did not correctly portray this young man who sat at her table. She was an agent, and she knew that every artist experienced setbacks, disappointments and failures.  This was something different.  While Brian, his partner, was talking with Tim Callen, she thought she'd use the time to get to know her client a little more.

"Brian is very protective of you.  I was surprised when he called.  Not many partners would have done that."

Justin bristled at the statement and the unspoken message that he needed protection. "Yes, Brian is protective, but I can fend for myself."  Justin stated very firmly.  He sat up straight in his chair and said in a very strong voice, "I'm fully capable of handling things myself, but he's always been there for me and especially these last few months."  Justin looked directly at Carol, his eyes almost piercing right through her, willing her not to question his convictions. He didn't want her thinking that he couldn't stand up for himself.  He hoped his words set her straight.

"I know you can stand up for yourself, Justin.  You would have never made it this far unless you were your own best advocate.  I'm just commenting how I'm beginning to understand why you wanted to return to Pittsburg.  The accident must have been very difficult for you and I'm sure Brian was a great source of comfort.  I can't imagine what you must have gone through.  Losing your memory and having to remember your life.

He heard her concern and genuine distress at his situation. Justin relaxed a little in his chair, lessening the straight back and softening his shoulders.  Still he was on alert.  "It was.  I didn't even know I was an artist for a while and then I wanted Brian to show me where I painted.  I can't even imagine what it must have been like for him.  He'd seen me hurt before, but this time I didn't remember much about the last few years."

"You were hurt before?"  Carol was surprised by this information.  She didn't always know a lot about her clients, especially early on in the relationship.  As she gained their trust, they often shared many pieces of their lives, both past and present.  Sometimes she felt that she should have a degree in Psychology in addition to her training in artistic management.

Justin forgot that not everyone knew about the bashing.  While he wasn't trying to be evasive with Carol, he didn't really feel like explaining about that time in his life, but knew that since he made the comment he would have to say something.

"When I was in high school, I was bashed.  I had to learn to use my hand all over again.  At first the doctors said I would never be able to use it, never be able to paint."

Carol raised her hand to her mouth in horror. "How terrible!!  That explains a lot.  No wonder you didn't say anything about the accident.  It would have been like reliving your worst nightmare."

"After the accident, I didn't remember much of the last few years, had to work on regaining my memories. When I finally remembered that I painted it seemed a little surreal."

Carol thought about the implications of such a devastating accident.  How cruel it would have been for Justin to be at the start of his career and not remember his talent?  "I'm so glad that you did remember.  The world would have lost a great artist."

"Thank you."

"Don't thank me.  I'm not the talent here, you are.  It's rare to find someone so young and gifted like you, Justin. I'm sure your earlier adversity impacted your painting."  Carol said as she mulled over the information Justin had provided.

Watching Justin share these few precious memories and discuss his struggles gave her insight into why they were here today.  Justin had obviously overcome two horrible accidents to get to this point in his career and when he thought his actions might have risked that success, it would have been devastating.

"Most artists have other jobs to support themselves until they break into their field.  You're not unique in that area and it's an unspoken rule that agents don't ask and their clients don't tell."

Justin looked at Carol as she spoke, trying to judge her sincerity.  "You're really okay with my history of dancing?"

"I don't care what you did in the past.  I only care what you do now.  And I hope that means that you are going to go home and paint.  Your show is in a little more than a month and I know you will be the talk of the town."

Brian chose that moment to come in, looking for Justin and very ready to move on to the more pleasurable parts of their day.  "Ready? We have some shopping to do." He didn't apologize for his interruption, feeling that Justin's needs to leave were his current priority, now that he'd taken care of the Tim Callen situation.

 "Thank you."  Thankful for the interruption as he had revealed more than he expected; Justin nodded his head toward Carol.   Justin wanted to put a little more closure to his conversation with Carol, but he recognized Brian in take charge mode.

 "Just remember, you need to go home and paint.  I can't have my star artist have nothing to display at his next show," she said, even though she knew Justin was aware of the situation.  She recognized both their needs to finish this meeting and stood up to shake both their hands.

"I'll make sure he is painting."  After shaking her hand, Brian placed his hand on Justin's back and propelled him out the door.

Neither man spoke until they were out of the building and Brian was hailing a cab.  They entered the back seat and Brian gave the cabbie the address of their hotel.  He leaned back his head against the seat and sighed in relief.

"So I take it you are itching to return to Britin so you can paint again?"

"Well I do want to return, but we are in the city and I promised you we could go shopping.  The apartment will be ready in a few weeks and it won't be acceptable for us to have nowhere to sleep," Justin said, tongue in cheek.

"Twat."

"But I'm your twat," Justin laughed.

"Yes, you are.  How'd things go with Carol after I left?"

"Good.  I told her about the bashing.  It seemed the right thing to do.  Maybe that will help her understand why I was so sure I couldn't paint."

Justin leaned over and gave Brian a big kiss on the lips.  Brian seemed relaxed; therefore he figured that the meeting went well.  "How'd your meeting go?"

"Excellent.  Did you have any doubts?"

"No.  You're the great god, Brian Kinney."  Justin laughed again.

"I just made sure he understood that you were unavailable for anything but interviews."

"I hope you didn't threaten him," Justin asked nervously.

"No, I was very professional.  I told him under no circumstances were you available to do anything but sit for an interview.  He got the message loud and clear."

"Brian the caveman.  I kind of like that vision."

"Well, just my luck, we have arrived at our hotel.  I'd put you over my shoulder and carry you to the room but I think we would get too many weird looks."

Grinning, Justin nodded his head in agreement.  "I think you're right, but once we get to the room, you can put me over your shoulder in your best imitation."

"I just might do that."

They arrived at the hotel a few minutes later and walked as quickly to the elevator as possible.  After punching the button for their floor, the elevator thankfully closed with the two of them the only occupants.  Brian turned Justin toward him, pulled him in close and devoured his mouth.  As the elevator dinged, announcing their arrival, they pulled away from each other reluctantly and almost ran to their room.

Justin used his keycard to unlock the door and Brian picked him up and threw him over his shoulder.  Justin laughed hysterically at his antics.

"Put me down.  I was only kidding when I told you that you were my caveman."

"Mine," Brian grunted as he walked to the bed and threw Justin on top of the blankets.  "Housekeeping is very efficient and has already cleaned the room.  Maybe we should just go shopping," Brian said tongue in cheek.

Justin recognized Brian's teasing and instead of responding he undid the button on his pants and quickly divested himself of the offending material.  Pulling his shirt off, he went straight to his chest and started circling the brown nipples. Looking at Brian, he saw his pants start to tent and watched with eager anticipation as he undressed quickly as well.

Once Brian was naked, he pounced on the bed and quickly climbed on top of Justin, enveloping him in his embrace.  Inhaling his scent further aroused him and he could feel his cock push up against Justin's smooth skin. Normally he did not like hickeys and forbid Justin to mark him always saying that he was a professional businessman and it would not do to have a hickey like some young kid. Today, he needed to claim his property; not that Justin was his property, but he needed to mark him, make him his, let the world know that Justin Taylor was his partner.  Placing his mouth on Justin's neck he gently sucked the succulent flesh and Justin tilted his neck to allow easy access.  Justin understood Brian's need, especially after talking to Tim Callen and it made him happy that Brian was who he was.  Sometimes it was nice to be fought over.

Justin pushed his cock into Brian's abdomen, enjoying the friction between their bodies.  Wrapping his arms around Brian's back he pulled his body toward him, enjoying the feeling of being enveloped by Brian. 

"I want you inside me," Justin whispered as he felt his pulse quicken and heard the increase in his breathing.  Justin felt Brian pull away for a moment as he hunted for the condoms they always kept on a nightstand.  Safety was always paramount in their relationship even at the very beginning. Not only did Brian help him now, but he'd also always wanted him safe and did everything in his power from the beginning to ensure his safety.

Brian tore open the condom and gave it to Justin to place on his cock; one of the many rituals that hadn't changed through the years.  It was an unspoken role, a way for Justin to know that Brian wouldn't put him in jeopardy by going bareback and a way for Brian to know that he was protecting Justin from all the other guys he tricked with.  He found the small tube of lube and prepared Justin as well. 

"Now," Justin demanded when he was about to explode from the stimulation of Brian's fingers in his ass.

Brian removed his fingers and plunged in swiftly into the tight channel.  This was not lovemaking but territorial and both men recognized it.  Sometimes sex was about solidifying the bond between two people and sometimes it was solace for the soul. Today it was a statement that they belonged to each other and both understood the union.  It was fast, quick and satisfying for both of them and afterwards, Brian reluctantly slid off Justin to remove the condom.

Justin sighed unknowingly at the loss of his partner and lay quietly as his heart rate returned to normal.  Leaning on his side, he looked at Brian, slightly sweaty from their recent exertions, hair a mess and a large smile on his face. He didn't comment on the smile, he understood its origins and he felt the same way.  Instead, he kissed Brian lightly on the lips and lay back on the pillow basking in post-coital bliss.

When Brian had recovered, he reached out his hand and swatted Justin on the hips and gently pushed him toward the edge of the bed.

"Hey," Justin replied in mock indignation.

"We have shopping to do.  Let's go shower.  We don't have all day," he teased, tongue in cheek.  Both men knew their return trip was two days away, but it served Brian's purpose to get his needs met as well as Justin's.  Justin nodded his head but didn't say anything and walked toward the bathroom where he was joined by Brian in the shower.

As Brian and Justin washed each other in the reciprocal fashion of two people who have participated in this dance numerous times, Justin was relaxed enough to quiz Brian about his interview.

"You said the interview went okay.  Did he get creepy?"

"No. He was very professional.  Asked some questions about your work and your inspiration.  I was surprised that he asked me some of them.  Tell me, Justin, did he even interview that day?  I know you didn't say anything about it, but..."

Brian was washing Justin's torso and felt him stiffen at the question.  His first impulse was to track Tim Callen down and kick him in the balls, especially after he denied being inappropriate, but he continued to wash Justin as he waited less than patiently for the answer. 

"No.  I was very curt and gave him a lot of one-word answers.  I didn't want to leave any openings for him to delve deeper.  He didn't ask anything inappropriate."

"Justin..."

"No, Brian.  He didn't.  I just feel tense when I talk about him because he did approach me when I was dancing.  Even then, he didn't pressure me.  He was very nice and took my no for a no."

"Okay.  I made it very clear that I expected no contact with you except in the context of his job as a critic.  He assured me that would be his only contact with you.  I did believe him, but if he ever says anything or does anything..."  Brian did not finish his statement; he knew Justin understood his meaning and he had faith that the next time Justin would tell him.

Brian finished washing Justin's chest and bent down to give him little kisses on his neck where he had left the hickey.  Justin laughed as they tickled.

"You didn't?"  Justin asked when he realized Brian was studying his neck and his handiwork.  He'd thought Brian spent a little more time than normal at his neck and he had raised his neck for access, but it'd been so long since Brian had marked him, he was a little surprised.

Brian's sheepish smile was all the answer he needed.

"You told Carol."  It was a statement more than a question but there was an unspoken question in there as well.  Brian hoped Justin would answer the call, but he was okay if he did not.

"I hadn't planned on it, but well she asked about the accident and I mentioned that it wasn't the first time I had to fight to regain things.  I just told her the bare minimum about the bashing."

Brian turned off the water and reached out to grab the warm towels on the warming rack.  Brian liked luxury and he paid for it even if he was only going to be in a place for a few days.  They dried themselves and rehung the towels on the rack since housekeeping had already been there that morning.  Walking to the main room, they both started dressing.

"You okay?"  Brian asked, concern for his partner coming through even in the short casual question.

"Yeah.  Now that I know that my past isn't going to get me kicked out before I even start, I'm okay.  Of course, that means that I've really got to get cracking before the show.  I didn't tell her about the gimp hand, so all she knows is I was bashed.  I hope that I don't have to share that with her or anyone else.  I don't want the public thinking of me as the gimp artist.  The last thing I need is for them to come to see the show as a result of curiosity for the poor wounded artist."  Justin put on his shirt and grabbed a pair of socks while waiting for Brian to don his new black shirt, that looked like every other black shirt in his closet, and announce that he was ready.

"Mission accomplished. I take it that when I leave for work on Monday you will be eagerly painting in your studio and I will come home to find you immersed in your work and no dinner anywhere in sight."

Justin smiled and walked to Brian wrapping his arms around his neck.  He nuzzled his neck and kissed it gently.  "I might stop to cook you dinner or I could be the dinner and dessert.  You never know."

Brian kissed him back and laughed.  "Twat. Let's go find some lunch and then we will do a little damage to my Gold Card.  I think we need to find a great sofa that I can fuck you on when I just can't wait to get to the bed."

They walked out of the hotel room and stopped at the front desk to ask for refreshed sheets and towels.  They grabbed a cab and stopped at the realtor to get a key so they could take measurements.

TBC