Chapter 4

The next morning everyone met at the house for breakfast before heading to town.  Gus came up early and started frying up bacon and sausage. He had a hard time leaving his warm bed.  Shelby had woken him up early with her mouth around his morning hardon and a finger massaging his prostate.  She brought him to orgasm once and then continued until he was on the edge again. She then straddled him and lowered herself onto it.  Gus flipped her over and drove into her over and over until they both climaxed, Gus collapsing on top of her.

“I missed you so much, Shelly.  I hope you don’t have any plans to go away in the near future.”

“No plans as long as you want to keep me around.  Brian was probably thrilled I was gone. Did he try to hook you up with someone?”

“Shelby, Pops will come around and I am not interested in anyone else when this is my morning alarm.” He kissed her and started traveling down her body. He spent time on each nipple as her body began to hum again.  He continued downward and spent some time at her navel before traveling still further. His tongue and lips were now teasing her clit and then his tongue dipped in to her core. He could taste himself but the went back to concentrate on the hard little bud.  

Shelby began to whimper and then cried out as she began to tremble and then convulse in a massive orgasm.  When she could speak again, all she could say was, “Wow.”

“I am going to shower and go help dad with breakfast.  You can come up in about an hour.”

Twenty minutes later he was walking out the door.  Shelby called out, “Love you.”

“Love you, too, Gussy.”

Gus walked into the kitchen to find Justin pulling ingredients out of the refrigerator.   “Fry cook reporting for duty,” he walked over and kissed Justin on the cheek.

“You look like a man who has had an eventful morning already.”

“You could say that,” he smiled over at his dad as he turned on the stove top grill.”

“Brian was still sound asleep when I came out.  I am sure he will be up soon.”

“I didn’t get the full story last night but it sounds like Andrew Price isn’t what he said he was.” Gus stated as he opened the bacon package.

“He was using her to get to us.  Now the CBI wants Molly’s help to set a trap.  Well, I guess they want Brian and I to be involved to but our hearts aren’t invested like hers is.  Have you met the guy?”

“No, other than waving at him, I have never seen him.”  Justin began mixing some pancake batter and turned on the griddle.

“Until this is settled, I want you to be extra careful and if you see anyone on the property that doesn’t belong get Jim if we aren’t here and check it out.  I think we will be sending Brinn to camp for a week so she is out of here. She will go by Tia. Don’t mention that to her yet. We will talk to her after the meeting.”  

They worked in silence as they tended the stovetop.  “Gus!” Dan said as soon as he came around the corner.  

“Dan, great to see you.” Gus exchanged a hug with him. Justin threw Dan a look before he could stop himself.  

Dan saw it and wasn’t sure exactly what it meant but he was sure it had to do with what occurred between Brian and him.  Justin always had been very protective and he understood his reservations now. “Where’s that beautiful girl of yours?”

“She’ll be up in a few minutes.  She’ll be happy to see you except I hear the reason you are here stinks.  You will have to see our house before you go back. It is coming along nicely.”

They continued to chat as Justin went from flipping pancakes to scrambling eggs.  Brian came around the corner and walked up behind Justin. His arms went around his shoulders and kissed his neck. Gus took the spatula out of Justin’s hand so he could turn and kiss Brian.  This time it was Dan who had a fleeting look cross his face. He knew they belonged together but he also knew what it was liked to have Brian Kinney make love to you. They separated and Brian grabbed some dishes out of the cupboard just as Molly and Shelby walked in with a gabbering Paul.  

At the same time Brinn entered the kitchen dressed for a day.  She was going to spend the morning with Shelby and Paul. Justin hoped to do some art with her this afternoon and then talk to her about camp.  He didn’t want to scare her but she had to know it was serious.

Everyone took a seat. Dan was introduced to Molly and Paul and a comfortable conversation began. Shelby and Gus volunteered to clean up since the other four had to get to the meeting.  Brinn was on Paul duty. She sat on the floor with her legs crossed and Paul sat on her lap as she read a story to him. Brian put his arm around Justin and Molly as they walked out saying, “I love this life and I am not going to let that ass hole take it from us. They left in three vehicles.

Dan had a rental while Molly drove herself since she planned to work after the meeting with the CBI.  

Brian and Justin rode in silence for a while. Once they were on a straight road Brian reached over searching for Justin’s hand.  When Justin didn’t take it he said, “Sunshine, everything ok?”

“Oh, sorry, I...Baby, I’m trying.  This morning Dan gave Gus a hug and I bristled.  I didn’t want him to touch our son. I….”

“Justin, you know Dan isn’t going to do anything but help us. Our friendship is worth far more than anything else that has happened.”  Brian extended his hand again and this time Justin took it. He brought it to his lips and slowly took each finger into his mouth one at a time. “You’re killing me here, Sunshine, and we can’t pull over for a quick blowjob.”

“Your office after the meeting is over.”

“Of the bathroom stall before the meeting,” Brian suggested.

“Oh, that would be good.  We would get arrested for public exposure in a police station.  That would be priceless.” Justin smiled weakly. “Love you, Baby.”

Soon Molly, Justin, and Brian were waiting in the conference room while Dan met up with Detective Harris for a few minutes.  Dan walked in with a smile on his face. “What’s that look for?” Brian asked.

“That is one fine looking man,” Dan said as he walked in.  

“Now that is something we can agree on,” Justin smiled. “Do you think his body is as amazing as it seems?”

“Well, I patted his upper arm and let me tell you…”  Dan stopped as the door opened.

“Sorry for making you wait.  The report I was waiting for just came in.  Ms. Taylor, I am Tyler Harris. I am a detective for the CBI.  May I call you Molly? Please call me Tyler.” Tyler took charge. “You will go on with your schedule.  You will come up with an excuse not to have lunch with him because we don’t want you to spend too much time with him.  When he invites you to dinner make sure you know where he is taking you and Brian and Justin will eat at the same place so an introduction can be made.”  As Tyler talked, Molly began to bristle. “Now I want you to…”

“Excuse me but I haven’t said I will do anything, yet, and although you may be a Detective, I don’t’ know you at all so why should I take orders from you.”  Molly did not like this bossy man and she was about ready to walk out.

“Molly, we have worked out…”

“Ms. Taylor!” Molly said sharply.

Justin and Brian looked at her with wide eyes.  This wasn’t going well.

“Well, Ms. Taylor, the plan has been set up and we need you to…” Detective Harris began.

“I don’t need to do anything!”  Molly was now sitting forward in her chair looking like she was about to strike.

Justin stood, “Molly, can I talk to you.  Let’s take a break for a minute.” He offered his hand to his sister and they walked out into the hall.  He led her over to some chairs and sat down next to her. “Molly, what is going on? This isn’t like you.”

“That man walks in and starts giving me orders….I don’t take orders from anyone.  My husband gave orders. He told me how he wanted me to do things. What I should say to be the perfect businessman’s wife.  When I got rid of him I swore I would never take orders from a man again and then…”

“Molly, Tyler is the guy that has to take control.  He is orchestrating not only us but a team of officers. He has to be in charge.  He isn’t trying to single you out. You are just the key person and he needs to be able to rely on you. Would it be easier if the two of you spoke alone?  He can fill us in on the details later. What is most important is for the two of you to connect. Just wait here a minute. I will go back in the room alone. Please, Molly, I am so sorry that you have been hurt by first dad and then your husband and when you start opening up to someone he is another scumball.  I don’t think Tyler is one of those. You don’t have to be best friends but give him a chance.” He pulled Molly into his arms and kissed her forehead.

“I just don’t...Ok.  Since that creep has hurt so many people.”

“And, Molly, you have to agree, that man is perfection.  If I didn’t have Brian, I would take that to bed so fast….”

“TMI, Justin!  I hadn’t even noticed. He started barking orders.”

“If you didn’t notice how perfect he is, you either need an eye doctor or you may think about checking out women, although I highly recommend  you don’t do that. Women are just too…” Justin saw Molly’s look and stopped talking.”

“We will talk about the man’s body later.  I will talk to him.”

“Wait here, I’ll be right back.”

While Justin was talking to Molly, Tyler was confused. Brian spoke up, “I think you may have come on a little strong for Molly.  She has gone through a lot in the last year and has been disappointed by men she trusted. I think Justin will calm her down.” Brian’s phone buzzed.  “Since we are taking a little break I need to take this.” He walked to the other corner of the room.

As Brian took the call, Dan said, “This is a good plan.  I would be running it the same way. In fact, if you would like to review the plans again, say over dinner. I could pick you up wherever you’re staying or we could meet someplace.”

“Um, Dan, if I am reading you wrong, I am sorry.  I am glad you agree with the plan and if you want to review all the steps I would be glad to share it but let’s make it here during office hours.”

“You are not reading me wrong and I hope I didn’t offend you.  A business relationship it will be and I hope we can be friends.”  As the men shook hands Brian was walking toward Dan and Tyler and Justin returned to the room.

“Sorry for the delay.  Dan, Brian can you step out a minute?” Justin waited for them to leave but before Brian stepped out he took Justin in his arms and kissed him, invading his mouth and exploring every millimeter of his mouth.  When he stepped toward the door, Justin had to sit down a minute. “Bri, give me five minutes and then send Molly in.”

“Tyler, I will make this quick.  My sister has been hurt by men who have taken away her choices and lied to her.  Just give her a chance to respond and let her be a part of the decisions. She is reasonable but she is also scared and unsure of her ability to do this.”

“I have to admit, I don’t know why but your sister unnerves me. She is beautiful but has an innocence about her. Her fire took me by surprise.”

“I’m afraid we Taylors have that streak ingrained in us. She feels like she is fighting for the best life for her and her son.”

The door opened again and Molly walked in. She sat down between Justin and the detective. “Mol, do you want me to stay? I can.”  She responded by taking his hand.

“I am ready to listen,” Molly said looking at Detective Harris and for the first time his brown eyes bore into her. She shook it off and Tyler started explaining the plan in more details giving her time to process and with some options along the way. Justin didn’t say a word but was there for moral support.

Dan and Brian sat side by side in the hall. “Dan, I think I owe you an apology.”

“The only person who owes anyone an apology is me and that is to Justin.  I, me and you…”

“Dan, you were there for me and Justin knows you were there for me.  He would rather it be you then some stranger.”

“And as much as I would have like it, I know you and I can never belong to each other.  Just know that if you ever need someone…..” as Dan laid his hand on Brian’s arm the door opened and Justin walked out. He walked over to where the two men were sitting.

“Brian, can you leave us alone for a few minutes.” Justin kissed Brian on the cheek as he walked away.

“Justin, I, uh….”

“Dan. I don’t want it to be weird between us.  Brian could have gone out every night and found someone else to fuck but instead he found comfort with a friend, a very good friend.  Are you alright? Brian is…”

“Brian is an amazing man that loves only you with all his heart and he will never be able to love another. I hope you two can realize that once and for all and stop tormenting each other. You just need to make a rule that you won’t be apart more than a couple days.”

“We are working on that, Dan.  We are working on that.” Dan offered his hand but Justin put his arms around him and the two men hugged.  “Now what do you say we torment him over that adorable detective?”

“I’m game but I can tell you, he isn’t interested. He is definitely straight.”

“Too bad for gay communities everywhere but Brian doesn’t know that, does he?”  Justin smiled at Dan.

“No, I don’t think he does,” Dan winked just as Brian rounded the corner.

“So what’s going on here? Did you kiss and make up?” Brian asked with a bit of tension in his voice.

“Do you want us to kiss and make up,” Dan asked, looking Justin in the eyes.  

Brian strode over to Justin and put his arms around his shoulder pulling him tightly to him, “I think I can manage to give him plenty of what he needs.”

“I would hate for you to overtax yourself now that you are getting elderly.”  Dan said patting Brian’s shoulder. “I mean Justin is much younger and…”

“Dan I only have a couple years on you so just shut up.  See you at the house later.”

Brian tried to lead Justin away.  “Brian, I have to wait for Molly. I need to make sure she is alright when she’s done.”

After Justin had left, Tyler programmed his number into Molly’s phone and she did the same.  “Ms. Taylor, thank you for agreeing to do this. Now you will need to let me know any time he contacts you.  Oh, and I need Price’s phone number, anything you have for him.” Molly took out her phone and wrote down his cell number and a number he said he had for work. As she turned around to leave she ran right into him. She tilted her head back as he looked down into her eyes. “Oh, sorry, I…”

“Detective, I am doing this because Justin is confident you are trying to do the right thing and you really want to get this guy off the street. I will follow your directions but believe me the minute I know he is in custody, lose my name, lose my number, you self absorbed, arrogant asshole.”  And with that Molly turned and walked out of the room.

When Justin saw Molly  he could see her temper had flared again.  “Mollusk, are you alright?”

“I will be as soon as I can get out of here and far away from Detective High and Mighty.”

“Molly, what…”

“Justin, I will be fine.  I need to get to work. If he comes in I will let everyone know what I can get set up but I don’t expect him today.  I would say Thursday.”

Justin hugged her.  “Plan on dinner with us tonight.  Dan will be there and I hope Gus and Shelby will be to.  We haven’t given you your trinkets from Mexico, yet.”

“I should be able to be there around 6:30.  Is that alright?”

“Perfect.  We are planning on dinner at 7:00. Come early and I promise you a couple glasses of wine.” Justin kissed her cheek and they went their separate ways.  

“Justin, I have to stop at the office for 15 minutes, half hour tops.”  Brian led Justin to the office. Once they were inside, Brian pinned Justin to the desk. “What was going on with you and Dan?”  

“Brian, we were just mending fences.  I told him I understand the situation was as much my fault as it was anyone’s.  And I truthfully told him I was glad it was him and not a different guy every night.”

“Did you mean that?”

“Ya, I did. Dan cares about you and that means he wouldn’t hurt you for any reason.”

“And what’s the deal with Harris?”

“Brian, there is no way you can deny that man is smoldering hot. And as much passion as he has for his job can you imagine how much he would bring to the bedroom.” Justin felt his cock twitch thinking about him. Brian felt it, too.

“Damn it, Justin!  How can I compete with a 30 year old stud? I wasn’t even sure he was gay until you and Dan were talking about him.”

“Brian, Dan said he asked him out and Tyler assured him he was flattered but not interest because he is straight. I mean seriously, if he turned down a guy that looks like Dan, he is not interested in men period.” Justin began to unbuckle Brian’s belt and then after undoing the fly his hand moved inside.  “Baby, you are the only person I love, the only one I am committed to til death do us part.” He moved his mouth to Brian’s as his hand skillfully brought him to full arousal. He then redid the fly and did the belt. “ Hold on to that until tonight when you can show me what a bad boy I have been. There are a couple of shops I want to stop at and I will end up at the art gallery.  Let me know when you are on the way.” And Justin walked out.

Brian did his best to complete the things he had to do at the office which included a couple phone calls to Ted and a local banker.  It was an hour later when he texted Justin that he was on his way to the gallery.

Justin had promised the gallery four new paintings by the end of the month.  He wanted to give them a chance to sell some of his work for him. The paintings were of the local surroundings and done by a local painter so that should be a pretty easy sell for them. Earlier he had stopped in a store that did designer fragrances and put on a sample of something they made just for him.  He would let them know later in the week if he wanted more than the sample. He wanted Brian’s reaction to committing to it.

Brian pulled up and Justin got in. He began to pull away and then stopped. “What is that smell?”

“Do you like it?”

“My god, I had blue ball already from your stunt earlier and now that smell.  I have a raging hard on. It smells like you in all the best ways and shit, I want to screw you.”

“Well, that isn’t happening until after dinner. Dan thought he would be home by 2:00 so I thought I would take him out to see Gus’ house and then I will make dinner.  You don’t have to come out to the house with us if you don’t want. I can get his opinion on my new cologne.”

“If you think I am going to let you alone for minute with Dan smelling like that, you are crazier than I think right now.” As soon as he was parked, Brian ran around the car to open the door for Justin.  He wasn’t sure what was in the scent but it was affecting him more than any popper ever had. Justin stepped out and Brian pinned him to the SUV but as his mouth landed on Justin’s he heard Brinn’s voice.

“Dad, you said you and Daddy were going to be more discreet.  You are failing.”

Justin slipped out from under Brian’s arm and said, “Brinny, can you help me carry a bag to the studio?”

“Yours or mine.  I will divide up the items and let you know which bag goes where.”  

“Did you get me some new mediums?”

“That is exactly what I did.”  As daddy and daughter looked through the bags, Brian went into the house.  He decided he would go for a run. He needed to burn off some of this sexual energy Justin created but was holding back on.  He texted Justin who was at the studio with Brinn. ‘Going for a run. Be back in an hour or so to go to the new house’.

When Justin heard the text come in he looked at it and smiled.  He had Brian off balance. He would fix that tonight but for a day it was fun. He made sure he was in the studio when Brian returned and while Brian was showering Justin put together some coleslaw for dinner as well as checked on some ribs he had in the crock pot.  He realized that if he started doing more with the art gallery, they would probably need some assistance in the house. He would talk to Mary and see if she knew of anyone. Maybe one of the employees of the winery had a wife that would like some work. He had to remember to run it past Brian tomorrow. Tonight they would have enough going on.

Brian came out of the bedroom fresh from a shower.  Justin quickly put on a little more of the new cologne.  As Brian came up behind him, Justin could smell his soap.  He smelled clean and looked damn sexy in the low slung jeans and tight t shirt. He walked behind Justin and rested his head on his shoulder.  “What are you make….You smell so amazing. The ribs are smelling great too. Any word from Dan?”

“He will be here any minute. He let me know when he was leaving.  Dinner is at 7:00 but why don’t you uncork a bottle of white right now.  The wine fridge is full. I think, I hope we will go through quite a bit tonight.”

“What? You plan to get drunk so you have excuse not fuck again?”

“Oh, just the opposite my love.  I hope to be so loose you are willing to try something new, of your choice of course.” Justin thrust his ass back against Brian’s already growing cock.  

“Can we cancel dinner and go directly to dessert?” He reached around and slipped his hand down the front of Justin’s pants.

Justin took a deep breath, regaining his composure.  “Remember our promise to Brinn.”

“Damn!  While she’s gone next week, you better be ready any time of day!”

“Promises, promises,” Justin turned into his arms for a kiss. Brian pressed him against the counter just as they heard the door open.

“Brinn, it is just….Oh, Hi Dan.”  Brian smiled over Justin’s shoulder.

“What were you going to say to Brinn?”

“She has put us on a restrictive sex diet.” Brian replied.

“Restrictive in what way?”

Justin turned to face Dan, “Let’s just say she is learning too much too young.  Raising a girl is so different than raising a boy. So, when she is around there is no more sex in the kitchen during the day. There is no long ‘naps’ in the afternoon.”

“That girl is starting to really cramp my style.  Good thing I love her to death.” Brian kissed the side of Justin’s neck as he moved away.  

“From the day I met the two of you, I knew you belonged together.  And I value your friendships more than anyone else I can think of. I am glad you came to your senses and I am glad we have worked it out, haven’t we?” Dan looked at Justin.

Justin nodded. He walked over to Dan and placing his hand on Dan’s cheek he kissed him a little longer than necessary.  “If I had been near you, I would have chosen you too.” The look in Justin’s eyes told Dan he was telling the truth. He quickly looked at Brian to see his reaction.  He was sure that would come up later when the two of them were alone.

“I’ll be ready to go on that tour of Gus’ house as soon as I change into some shorts.” He disappeared down the hall.

Brian walked over to Justin and took both his hands, “Were you serious….about Dan….and choosing him?”

Justin looked up at him, “Yes, he would be a safe place to run to.”

“I will never push you to do that.  I promise.”

“You scared that if I did I wouldn’t come back to you?”  He winked and Brian yanked him close for a kiss.

“Ok, I can see why Brinn is getting confused about sex and when and where it is appropriate.”  Dan laughed as he walked into the room.

The three men decided to walk out to the site rather than take a cart.  Brian instinctively reached for Justin’s hand and they walked toward the cottage.  Brian pointed out different features of the winery as they walked.

“This California living agrees with the two of you.  This place is beautiful. Maybe I should check into something in the area.”

“It would be great to have you near, Dan.”  Justin said sincerely. Brian put his arm around Justin’s waist pulling him closer.  

They pointed out the cottages where Gus lived with Shelby and where Molly lived with Paul.  “Let’s see if Paul is awake and give Shelby a little break. I will be right back.”

Moments later Justin came out with a smiling Paul. He belted him into his stroller and met up with Brian and Dan. Brian took over the pushing of the stoller and Justin looped his arm through Brian’s as they walked. The sounds of nail guns and saws was getting louder as they walked.  It had been awhile since they had been out here and they were impressed at the progress. The windows had gone in since they were out last it looked like the exterior was about ready for the siding. Brian took Paul out of the stroller and they all walked up some steps that would be replaced by a wrap around deck in time.  As they entered what was the great room the men caught their breath. The entire length of the house was glass and the view was incredible. Sunset would be spectacular. The interior still had a long way to go but the kitchen had been roughed in so the footprint was obvious.

“Gus!” Justin called out.

“Coming!”  Gus’ voice came from above.  When he came into sight he smiled. “Pops, Dad, Dan!  Glad you stopped by!” Gus nearly slid down the ladder to get down to their level.

“Careful, Gus,” Justin said.  

Gus walked over and kissed his cheek, “Dad, I do it probably 100 times a day.”

Justin looked at Gus closely as he stood there without a shirt on and sweat running down his chest.  He noticed Dan staring at Gus. He looked closer himself. Gus had really developed this summer. The boyish physique was gone, replaced by this hard bodied man that stood in front of him.  “Gus, I hadn’t realized how ripped you had gotten.”

“I noticed right away,” Dan said under his breath.  Brian hit him in the gut with his free hand.

“Gaga, Gaga!” Paul reached toward Gus.

“I’m all sweaty little man.” Gus walked over and kissed Paul.  “I will play with you later. I don’t think we should get Paul up this ladder but Dan if you want to see the rest of the house follow me.”  Gus scampered back up and Dan followed.

Brian looked at Justin, “Did you see the way Dan looked at Gus?  I think he wanted to fuck him right here.”

“Your son has a lot of your attributes.  I bet if Gus was still free Dan would like to see if the similarities continued.” Justin said.

“Don’t even joke about that, Sunshine. There has been enough father and son sharing here.” Justin first shocked and then looked like he had been hit.  He reached for Paul and headed for the door. “Justin, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t….”

Justin tied Paul into the stroller and jogged off with him.   “Damn!” Brian said under his breath. He scaled the ladder and joined Dan and Gus. Gus was just entering the master suite with Dan.  It was a large room with the same view as downstairs. Dan saw a table in the corner and on it were the swatches for color and flooring.  

“Gus, this is going to be stunning.  It has crossed my mind to try and find something around here.  If I find land, will you build on it for me? And I don’t know who is the interior designer but these colors work so well in this space.”

“Molly is helping with the interior.  She is very good. We are thinking about opening a business together.”

“You are?”  Brian sounded surprised.  

“Yes, we were planning to talk to you and Dad about it but haven’t had a chance yet. Molly is putting a business plan together before we talked to you.”

“Well, if you are looking for backing, I’m in,” Dan said.  “This is high quality building and design.”

“I would love to, Dan! Do you really think it is that good? I mean Shelby and I love it but…”

“Gus, it is better than good.  I have been in many fabulous homes and I think this might be above all of them. I can’t wait to see it when it is finished.”

“Dan, if you are serious about this, I can introduce you to the realtor that sold us this.  She is good and knows what’s out there. I can give her a call if you like.”

“I definitely would.  I’m ready to spend more time out of the city.  I can run my business from anywhere.”

Gus went back to work and Brian and Dan went back to the main floor.  “Where’s Justin?”

“Oh, he took Paul back to the house.  He had some, um, dinner stuff to get ready.”

“Don’t you ever have household help?  Justin seems busy enough not to have household chores to do.”

“I have tried, Dan, but maybe it is time to try again. By the way, if I see you look at my son like that again, I might have to….”

“Down boy.  I just was very surprised how much he changed since last time I saw him like that.”

“And when would you have seen Gus shirtless?”

Dan knew he had said too much.  Of course he shouldn’t have seen him shirtless.  “Oh, they were in the hot tub once when they spent time in the city with me.”  

“Oh, ya, not that she would let him alone with anyone.”

“You don’t like Shelby much, do you?”

“I like her fine for Brinn’s tutor.  She has done an amazing job with her but I didn’t hire her to teach both my kids.”

“Brian, from everything I have seen, Shelby is as much Gus’ soulmate as Justin is yours.”

“Shut up, Dan,” Brian said casually as they walked.  As they past Shelby’s, Brian glanced and saw the stroller back at the cottage. He needed a minute with Justin before dinner to smooth this over.  He heard Brinn’s voice and seconds later she had her arms around his waist.

“Dad, can I have a piggyback ride to the house?”  Brian started to bend down but Dan picked her up and placed her on his back.  Brinn blushed over at Dan and quietly said, “Thank you.” She wrapped her arms tight around her dad’s neck. Softly, in his ear, Brinn said, “I love you, Daddy.”

A bolt of love shot from his ear to his heart.  She knew Justin was her daddy but on special moments like this, and she called him daddy, his heart was ready to explode.  “I love you, Brinny.” As he walked onto the veranda he set her down and took her in his arms for a hug before she scampered off.

“Brian, I hope you know how lucky you are. I know when Brinn came along it wasn’t the best situations but….”

“Brinn was a gift.  One I probably didn’t deserve but I could not imagine life without her. The girl is going to make a name for herself someday.”

“I don’t doubt that for a minute.”  Dan opened the door and followed Brian into the house.  

Brian noticed a nearly empty bottle of wine next to Justin.  He hoped he had moved it before Dan noticed and pulled out another bottle, opened it and poured Dan a glass.  “Dan, why don’t you take the glass and the bottle. I will be out in a few minutes and you can keep me company while I man the grill.” Dan picked up the bottle and headed out.  

Brian walked over to Justin, “I am sorry, Sunshine.  I didn’t mean, …..I….”

“You don’t think the guilt doesn’t haunt me everyday? I still haven’t talked to Gus about it.  I need to. I had no right to…..” By now Justin was wound up. Tears were streaming down his face. “I didn’t mean to….I,” Brian tried to take him into his arms but he pushed away.

“Sunshine, go take a few minutes.  Maybe take a shower. I will get dinner finished.”  He kissed his forehead and wiped the tears away. “I love you.  We will talk later.” He turned Justin and directed him down the hall.  He hoped Justin was able to pull himself out of the funk before dinner. He wanted to go with him to love him, to show him it didn’t matter but right now he had to finish dinner for their family and friend.  

Brian came out with the ribs and started the charcoal grill.  He emptied his first glass of wine and poured another.

“Brian, tell me to butt out if I overstep but is everything alright with Justin?”

“Dan, we are the best of friends, and I can assure you that Justin will be fine but it is something I have to work out with him.  I stuck my foot in my mouth and I will need to extract it but right now I have to take care of these ribs.”

“Brian, I can watch the ribs for a while and if you send Brinn out here I will keep her busy.  Go tend to your husband just be back in about an hour.”

“Thanks, Dan.” and Brian was gone. He stopped by Brinn’s room and told her Dan could use her help and knowing the crush she had on him she was gone in a flash.

Brian entered the bedroom to find Justin curled up on the bed. He laid behind him and pulled him close. “I keep thinking Gus is going to realize how disgusting I am. I slept with his former lover. Why should he….” Justin turned into Brian’s arms.  “I am so sorry I….”

“Justin, we have the most forgiving, understanding son.  He would never hold this against you. I doubt he even thought about it again. You didn’t take him from him.  He was his cast off and I don’t mean that to disrespect Lucky. This is all my fault. I stuck my foot in my mouth.  You did nothing worse than I did.” Brian’s hand entered Justin’s shorts.

“We can’t.  Brinn….”

“Dan has Brinn and we have each other.”

“I can’t, not now.”

“Then put that ass in the air and you will get what you deserve.  Brian warmed his cheeks and when his arm got tired he made Justin reposition.

“More, please, Brian.”

“No, Sunshine, I won’t hurt you that way anymore.”  Brian rubbed his hand over the heated cheeks. He began to work his fingers in between the cheeks and deep inside Justin. He began with one finger and than two.  He thrust them in and out over and over. When Justin was near to climax he stopped. He grabbed Justin’s favorite beads and began to insert them. Once he had them all in place he turned them on and then he offered his hand to Justin and led him to the shower.  Together they entered the shower.

Justin turned to face Brian.  He smiled. “Thank you. I know I over reacted to your comment.  I was just having a little temper tantrum and then the wine just made me depressed and then…”

Brian began rubbing shampoo into Justin’s hair and then as Justin stood directly under the spray, he moved lower with the bar of soap. He got a whiff of the cologne as the water washed it away.  “I hope that you have more of that scent. I could literally eat you….oh, guess I do that anyway.” He turned Justin around so he could get the rest of the soap rinsed off. “I love you, Sunshine.  The past is past and our future is yet to come and I plan on it to be a long, happy one.” He kissed him deeply and then swatted the tender red cheeks. “We better get going. We have dinner guests coming.  Do you want me to keep you primed during dinner?” He pulled on the bead string a little.

“If you don’t mind, leave it at the same level all night and I promise we will….” Brian pressed his naked body against Justin’s.  Justin stepped away. “I will dress in the bathroom and meet you outside.” Brian nodded as the bathroom doors closed.

“So you see, the Native Americans, some people call them indians, built those homes in the cliffs long before people like you and me lived here.  I find it fascinating that they located their homes in the places it would be easiest to protect themselves.” Brinn stood next to Dan as he mopped on bbq sauce.

“That is very interesting, Brinn.  Do you have any idea what you would like to go to college when you graduate.  I know that is many years away yet but….”

“Actually,  Shelby expects me to finish my studies within the next two years.  I am still deciding what I might do. You know science and math is pushed for girls and I do enjoy them but I need a career that doesn’t only have right and wrong answers.  I need things that allow for the creativity I have. I mean look at my dads. They are both very creative and I can’t….

“Brinn, why don’t you go check if Shelby could use a little help with Paull so she can get ready for dinner.”

“Dad, you can tell me to just get lost for a while.  May I go to my studio instead. I have a project I would like to work on for a little while.”

“Sure, dinner is at 7:00.  Do you have your phone?” Brian asked as he kissed the top of her head.  She held it up as she ran away.

“I am so sorry, Dan. Sometimes she forgets how to act like an eight year old.”

“I knew she was smart but I had no idea she was that smart. She is scary smart.”

“Yes, that is the main reason we hired Shelby. She would run circles around any poor teacher trying to deal with a room full of kids.  We aren’t sure what we are going to do when she finishes high school which could be next year.”

“How is Justin?” Dan asked as he continued to mop sauce on the ribs.

“Justin is fine.” Dan looked up to see Justin coming out the door.  “I would be better, Baby, if you poured me a glass of wine.” Brian passed him a glass and then pulled him close. Brian pressed his nose to Justin’s neck and pressed his pelvis against him.

“Whatever that scent is, god….” Dan turned to the grill as Brian claimed Justin’s mouth.

Molly had just locked the front door of the shop and there was a knock.  “Sorry we’re…..” She looked over and saw it was Andrew. Oh, shit. She had to talk to him.  She took a deep breath and put a smile on her face and unlocked the door. Before she realized it she was in his arms and his mouth was on hers.

“Now, I think I will survive until I can have lunch with you on Thursday.”  As he kissed her neck she shivered but not from pleasure but from fear.

“Oh, Andrew, that would be wonderful but I am not working Thursday.  I took the day off because we have an old friend visiting but by Saturday I will be free.  Do you think we could have dinner?”

“Dinner Saturday sounds perfect.  I still would love to meet your brother and brother in law and see if they might be interested in the project I am working on.”

“I will check with them.  I don’t know what their plans are.” Andrew kissed her again. “Saturday seems like a long time off,” his hand grazed her breast and she shivered again.

“Andrew, I really need to get going. Our guest arrived this afternoon so I need to get to a family dinner.”  Molly put space between them.

“Alright.  I will plan on Saturday. Should I pick you up, let’s say 6:30?”

“I will check with Justin and Brian.  If it works for them it will save you a trip out to pick me up but I will definitely plan on a ride home.”

The moment Andrew had crossed the street, Molly texted Tyler Harris.  It just said ‘Saturday, dinner at 7’. She then called Justin.

“Hey, Mollusk, I thought you would be on your way home by now.”  Justin laughed as Brian pulled him close.

“He was here, Justin.  Andrew….Oh, god, he kissed me and I…..”

“Molly, take a deep breath.  Do you want someone to pick you up so you don’t have to drive home?”

“No, I will be fine.  I am leaving now.”

“Molly, did you contact Tyler?”

“I texted him.  See you soon.”

Gus got to the cottage later than he hoped. He had lost track of time after the men left.  After stopping by the playpen to say hi to Paul he walked into the bedroom where Shelby stood in her corset.  She heard the low rumble emanating from him. “You know that drives me totally…” he grabbed her around the waist and pulled her to him. When his mouth came down on hers his hand slipped between her legs finding his treasure in the crotchless panties. It took all her willpower to push him backward.

“You need a quick shower.  You really do stink,” as she said this she pulled on her sundress.  “I am taking Paul up to the main house so you can get ready without distraction.”   She blew him a kiss and walked out the door, picking Paul up as she passed the playpen.

Molly arrived as Shelby came up pushing the stroller.  “Mama, mama!” Paul called when he saw her.

“Oh baby boy, I have never been so happy to see you.” Molly picked up Paul and held him close.

Shelby put an arm around Molly, “What’s up my friend? You seem very frazzled.”

“I just saw Andrew before I left work.  I guess I am just ...um, excited.”

“Are you sure? You don’t seem like yourself.”

“It was a long day,” she propped Paul on her hip and walked toward the house.  “I could use a large glass of wine.”

Justin greeted Molly with a glass in hand for her.  “Where’s Gus?” Justin asked looking at Shelby.

“He should be here shortly.  I seemed to be a distraction so I just came up with Paul.” Everyone laughed, “I probably should have taken him up on it since he will probably fall asleep as soon as we get home tonight.  He has been working so hard.” Arms slipped around her waist.

“Don’t worry.  I know what you have on under that dress.  I will not be sleeping any time soon.” Gus said slapping her ass. “In fact if you will excuse us for 5 minutes…” he tugged on her arm and she slapped him on the arm.

Brinn had arrived and everyone sat down at the table.  “Before we all get covered with bbq sauce, Brian and I have something to give you.” Justin got up and brought a box to each of the women.  They opened the boxes and found the silver bangles.

“Look, I have one, too!”  Brinn held out her hand as the women slipped them on.  

“They are really beautiful,” Molly said and Shelby agreed.

Then Brian handed Gus his box.  He opened it and nestled in it was the ring they had carefully picked for him.  “Dads, I love it. He started putting it on his left hand but switched it to his right.”  

Shelby took his hand and looked at it.  “I really do like it.”

“Well, time to eat.” Brian said as the wine and food was passed around. Soon everyone was more relaxed.  The ribs were tender and soon everyone was sticky and full. Everyone grabbed leftovers and carried them in.

Gus whispered something to Shelby and she flushed.  “Um, Dads, I think we are going to go back to the cottage.  I am really tired.”

“Ya, keep telling us that.” Molly said and everyone laughed.  “I will walk back with you guys.”

Paul had fallen asleep and Gus picked him up.  “I’ll carry him back. The stroller will wake him up with all the bumps.”

Justin walked over and hugged Molly.  “Come up tomorrow when you are ready and we’ll talk.”  Molly nodded. The four walked off together.

Brinn was curled up on Brian’s  lap almost asleep. “Sweetheart, why don’t you get ready for bed.  We will be there in a few minutes.”

“Ok, Dad,” Brinn looked over at Dan, “Good night, Mr. Dan.”  She gave him a little hug and she turned and ran into the house.

“Do you two know how much trouble she is going to cause in about eight years?”

“Why do you think we are home schooling? We are protecting her from them and them from her.” Brian said.  

Justin had gotten quieter as the night went on.  Brian figured his mind was busy besides their conversation earlier and the vibration he was dealing with all night.  Without knowing exactly how it happened Justin ended up sitting on Brian’s lap.

Dan sighed, “Do you know how much I want what you two have? Maybe a move to California would be good for me.  You don’t happen to know of any nice single men that are ready to settle down with a good man?”

“Dan, if you move out here, we will do everything we can to help you find Mr. Right.” Justin said sleepily.

“Well, guys, I will be going into town tomorrow morning and meet up with Harris.  We will work out some details and get back to you and Molly. I plan to meet up with the Realtor at some time.”  The three men stood and walked into the house together. The last of the food was put away and the three headed down the hall.

“Good night, Dan.” Justin kissed him and walked into Brinn’s room.  

“Daddy, you didn’t knock,” Brinn’s voice came through the door as Justin shut it.

“Night, Brian. Are we good?”

“We’re good, Dan.  I hope you are serious about spending more time here.  We both could use a friend like you nearby. I better get to my room. I know my night is not nearly over. ” He winked at Dan as they moved off to their own rooms.

Brian lit a couple candles and ditched his clothes. Justin entered the room and turned off the light.  He walked toward Brian and Brian reached out for him. Moments later they lay naked on the bed. Brian opened his mouth to say something but Justin put his finger to it. He brought his mouth to Brian’s and their lips first brushed each other and then they touched again and again.  Each time the kiss was longer and with more feeling. Both men were building quickly to a climax with nothing other than kissing but when Justin knew he couldn’t wait longer he guided Brian’s hand to his ass and as Brian began to remove the beads Justin gave up all restraint. Brian was thankful he had the room soundproofed.  As he climaxed he started to laugh. When he realized Brian still hadn’t orgasmed he turned and offered himself and Brian had barely entered before he filled Justin. He wasn’t sure why but he started laughing, too. He brought his mouth to Justin’s neck and lightly bit him. Justin turned his head and they kissed.

“I needed this so badly.” Justin turned over and continued the kiss.  “Thank you, Darling. I don’t know why I got so upset today and once I did I just couldn’t snap out of it. I am not sure why you put up with my hysterics.”

“I’m just sorry I made you freak out.  But if you really feel like you need to talk to Gus, do it soon. Clear the air because obviously you have some guilt over it.”

“I will,” Justin kissed Brian, “And now tomorrow I can focus on Molly.  She will need us and we will be there for her.”

“But what we need now is sleep.”

Gus carried Paul into the bedroom for Molly and laid him in the crib.  “Thanks, Gus. I am so glad Paul has so many guys in his life since he doesn’t have that sperm donor in his life.  

“Molly, do you have time tomorrow to come out to the house?  I have some design elements that need to be decided and I need your help to help get them narrowed down.”

“Sure, what time do you want me out there?”  

“Whatever works.  I will be out there by 7:00 or so.”  Shelby wrapped her arms around him and rubbed against him from behind.  “Make that 8:00. I will be there by,” Shelby’s hand slid below his waist.  “I’ll call you when I am leaving.” Gus turned and literally chased Shelby out of the cottage. Gus pressed her against the cottage door and one hand moved under her dress. He pulled it over her head.

“Gus, we are outside.  Anybody can see us.” She reached back and opened the door. They stumbled in together.  Gus threw the dress on a chair and threw her over his shoulder. His hand moved to her ass and then, still holding her on his shoulder his other hand moved between her legs and began stroking deep inside her. Before he laid her down she was already feeling a pulse deep inside her.  He dropped her on her back on the bed and dropped to his knees. Putting her legs over his shoulders he dined on her very essence. Pressing against her thighs with his shoulders he lifted her ass off the bed. His fingers began to play with the other entrance she allowed him to explore.  He stretched and massaged it further and soon between his talented mouth and fingers, he had to grab Shelby by the hips.

“Shelby, I am going to take off these amazing flimsy things and then I am going to fuck the hell out of that amazing tight ass. He slipped the panty off and then tantalizingly slow he undid the corset.  When he exposed her breasts he gave each one equal time, drawing moans from her. Once she was completely naked, he again began working his fingers deep in her back side.

“Oh, Gus, please, I need you.  He slowly but steadily pressed into her bud and watched it bloom before him as he buried himself completely in her.  With her legs again over his shoulders he had the ability to insert a couple of his fingers deep into her other receptive opening, causing her to cry out. When his thumb brushed her clit she screamed.  He began to move bringing her even higher until he collapsed on the mattress beside her, totally spent. He clung to her as they fell asleep in exhaustion.

Molly couldn’t find sleep.  She tossed and turned. Finally she got out of bed.  She didn’t want to admit it but her mind was on her two best friends in the cottage next to her.  She wanted to have what they had. She opened her laptop and pulled up the floorplan Gus had sent her and she started designing.  The three of them had talked so many times about what they liked and what they didn’t care for. None of this had to be permanent but it was a great image to show Gus.  He had an excellent eye for buildings and layouts but colors and textures were her area. She was on a roll. After completing the great room she started on the master suite and the next thing she knew, she had fallen asleep on the couch.  

“Mamamama,” Paul called from the bedroom.  Molly sat up and rubbed her eyes. It was 7:00 a.m.  She had remembered seeing 3:00 so it had been a really short night.  She was very glad she didn’t work today.

“Coming, big boy.”  She yawned and stretched.  She popped a coffee pod in the machine and pressed start before walking into the bedroom and started her day with her son.

Brian woke to find Justin still sound asleep.  He felt a little guilty for starting the whole thing with his comment about his fling with Lucky.  He should have known Justin felt some guilt just like he did with Dan but he and Justin always reacted differently to things like that.  Justin had a much stronger guilt streak in him. He had so much more heart. His hand reached out and caressed Justin’s cheek and then moved downward. The back of his hand glided down his side and then to his inner thigh just avoiding his greatest treasure. Brian gently woke him. Every touch bringing him a little more pleasure.  He brought his mouth millimeters from Justin’s slowly responding cock and blew gently, stirring his pubic hair. His hand continued to stroke the upper leg with a feather light touch. Brian noticed goose bumps form on his skin and when he flicked his tongue over the tip causing his Sunshine to shiver and sigh.

“You’re teasing me, Baby.  Now I need so much more.”

“Well, let me help you with that need,” Brian’s mouth  covered his cock as he moved his body between Justin’s legs. His arms reached around so he could grab Justin’s ass.  Brian’s fingers worked their way deep into Justin as his mouth drove him crazy until he exploded into Brian’s mouth but Justin wanted more.  He turned to his stomach and raised his ass in the air. Brian ran his tongue up the crevice and darted in several times as Justin again cried out and then he was given what he wanted.  Brian drove in. Over and over he moved in and out until they both came.

After a few moments they both stopped trembling and Justin turned to Brian with a stunning smile.  “Good Morning, Darling.” He kissed him sweetly.

“I hope you don’t mind I woke you.”

“You can wake me anytime.  Day or night!” Justin purred as he rubbed his body against Brian’s.  

“Dan and Harris are meeting this morning.  They asked if I would come in and review what they know since I have been looking into all the real estate around here.  You are welcome to join us.”

“You know I want to know everything planned but I won’t be any help at the meeting and I really need to talk to Gus.”

“I will be able to concentrate better without you there know how warm and ready you are this morning,” Brian’s finger slipped in again and again began to stroke his prostate.  “Maybe I could say we both came down with a fever.”

Justin was having trouble catching his breath.  “I….we….you….. Damn! I can’t think when you are…..”

Brian’s mouth clamped down on Justin and then he swatted the bare ass. “Do you want the shower first or should I? We can’t do it together or we will never get out of here.”

“Go ahead. I will get in as soon as you finish.  Call me as soon as you can and maybe I can be with Molly here on a conference call with the three of you so we all know what is going to happen.”  Justin continued to talk as Brian showered. He loved watching Brian’s long, lean body. He may have put on a couple pounds since they met but he looked better.  He loved the flecks of gray that were appearing. As Brian stepped out, Justin began drying him off. “I love you, Brian Kinney.” His lips brushed Brian’s and he walked into the shower.

Brian looked at Justin, “God, Sunshine, I love you, too.”

By the time Justin came out of the shower, Brian had left.  He dressed and went to check on Brinn. She wasn’t in her room and he found her eating a bowl of cereal at the kitchen counter.  He kissed her blond head. “Good morning, Brinny. What would you like to do today?”

“Daddy, may I go with Mary and Chantel.  Chantel is getting her hair cut. Can I get mine cut, too? It would be easier to take care of it at camp.”

Justin ran his hair through her golden strands that reached nearly to her waist. “But your hair is so beautiful, Brinn.”

“I don’t want it cut short.  I just want it to be easier to comb and put in a ponytail.  Daddy, please?”

Justin had an idea.  He whispered something in her ear and she smiled and nodded.  “I will walk with you over to Chantel’s house and talk to Mary.  Are you sure cereal is enough?”

“Can we go over now?”  

“Sure, Sweetie.”  He grabbed a couple bananas.  He handed one to Brinn and started eating the other one himself.

After Justin talked to Mary and was sure what she understood what he wanted for Brinn, he went on to Molly’s cottage.  He was fairly sure by now his nephew would have woken her up. He knocked on the door, “Hey, Mollusk, may I come in?”

“It’s open.” Molly responded.  

After giving his sister a hug, he dropped on the floor next to Paul and started building a block tower.

“So, Brother, did you come just to do a little building?”

“I just wanted to let you know Brian went to the meeting with Dan and Tyler.  They will call later this morning and I thought we could talk to them together.”  He looked over and saw that Molly had paled a little. “Mollusk, are you alright doing this?  If you don’t want to we can figure something else out.”

“No, I read about all the stuff Andrew did.  He needs to be put away.” Molly’s phone bussed.  

Gus called Molly when he finally managed to get out of bed.  He wanted to stay there with Shelby forever. He knew he wanted to wake up next to her forever.  Molly came on the line, “Hey, Gus. Did you manage to get out of bed?”

“Yes, but only because we need to talk about some of the plans.”

“Can I meet you at the site in a few minutes?”

“Sure, I am heading there now.”

Molly hung up and looked at Justin.  “How would you like to spend some quality time with your nephew?  You can work on your building skills while I talk with your son about his. It won’t be more than an hour. I can let Brinn know.”

“Brinn is gone with Chantel and Mary so I will hang with this boy until you come back. Then it is my turn with Gus.  Justin stood and walked to Molly, “Are you sure you are alright? You don’t look like you slept much last night.”

“Oh, great!  How bad do I look?”

“Molly, you are beautiful but you look a little tired.”

“You’re right but I don’t have time to think about that now.  I am heading out to the build site.”

“Tell Gus I will be out there after you come back.”  Justin hugged his little sister. “Molly, is there anything I can do to…..”

“Justin, I can’t….I’m too tired to deal with it today but thank you,” She kissed his cheek as she grabbed her tablet and walked out the door.

Gus was excited after looking at what Molly had done through the night.  “Molly, this is fantastic. It is just as I pictured it. The colors will make the inside and the outside look seamless.”

“You and Shelby need to decide on the textures.  I can get samples of everything so you can touch and feel it.”

“You don’t know how excited this makes me!” Gus gave her a big hug. “Did you work all night on this?”

“Well, I had nothing else to take up my time but I have to admit I could use a nap. I think I will go back to the cottage and hopefully catch Paul’s nap with him.  Oh, Justin is coming out here to talk to you about something. He didn’t tell me what.”

“Ok.  Thanks again, Molly.  We will have to talk to Justin and Brian about the new business soon.”

“I think we need to get through this Price thing first.”  Molly carefully went down the ladder with Gus holding onto the top for her. “Molly, you are really good.  You need to be doing this.” He lowered the tablet to her in a basket they kept there to pass tools level to level.  She waved and went to take a nap with her son.

Gus was working on some built in bookcases when he heard Justin call his name.  “I’m in the master, dad.” Justin climbed the ladder and entered what would be his son’s room.

“Gus, I …” Justin hesitated, “I owe you an apology, Gus. I should have said this long ago but I … Gussy, I am so sorry.  I don’t know how you can forgive me.”

“Dad,” Gus stopped working and looked over at Justin.  “What are you talking about?”

Justin stared out the windows that looked across the valley. “The fact that I slept with another man when Brian wasn’t here is bad enough but I slept with your former lover.  He was your friend, your lover. I should have never…”

“Dad, I am not sure what went down between the two of you.  I know you were drinking too much. I know Lucky is a very good looking man who is an amazing lover.  I don’t blame you that in your weakness you turned to him. I wasn’t in love with Lucky, ever. And I am fairly sure Pops wasn’t faithful either.  Was it Dan?”

“Gus, it’s not my place to badmouth Brian.  I drove him into someone else’s arms.”

“Dad, I have seen the two of you go through a lot.  I think I remember a time or two when the two of you invited people to join you.”

“You remember that?”

“I didn’t realize that’s what was going on at the time but it dawned on me somewhere around the time I was with Jamie.  You two know you can’t live without each other. You just have to learn that yourselves and maybe to remember it you have to be a part once in a while. Dad, nothing you or Pops do could be so bad I stopped loving either of you.  No, that isn’t quite true. Shelby comes first now but the rest of you are right there with her.”

“Oh, Gus, does that mean you are going to….”

“Dad, I don’t know when but yes, someday hopefully from this spot I will ask her to be Shelby Kinney I all I can do is hope she will say yes.”

“Gus, there is no doubt she loves you. When you are ready we are there for you.”

“I wish Pops was there.  He just doesn’t get it.”

“He will, Gus, he will.”  Justin hugged their son. “I hope you know I would never do anything to hurt you.  It would kill me to know I did that purposefully.”

“Dad, I know that.  I have always known how much you love me. I can’t imagine that you were my age when you considered me yours.”

“Gus, you were mine from the night you were born.  Brian just didn’t realize it, yet. You have always had my heart.  I love you and am so proud of the man you are.”

“Dad, you are a big reason I am the man I am.  I was lucky to have four amazing parents that all put their kids first and who loved me no matter what.” Gus hugged Justin and kissed him like he did when he was a little boy. “I love you, Dad.  And you will always have my heart, too.”

After a long hug, Justin wiped his eyes.  “Ok, I am going to get out of here so you can work. I will talk to you soon.”  For the second time that day he held the ladder as his dad went down.

“I will have steps in here soon,” he said as Justin walked out the door, feeling lighter than he had in weeks.

Before Justin got back to the house he got a text from Brian, asking if Molly was available for a conference call.  He was about to text and say she was napping when he saw her pushing the stroller. “He Mol, I thought you were napping.”

She looked totally exhausted but she gave him a weak smile. “Your nephew has a different idea.  I was hoping some fresh air would tire him out. I thought about asking Shelby to watch him but I ask her too often the way it is and then I realized she had gone into town to pick up some groceries.”

“Do you think you can handle a short conference call with Dan, Brian, and Tyler? It shouldn’t take too long and then Paul can hang with me a couple hours.  I will take him to the studio with me. I am just stretching some canvas so he will be fine. Maybe I will take some photos of him. I have been meaning to paint him.  He is one of the most adorable babies I have ever seen.” He kissed his sister. “Never be afraid to ask for help, Mollusk. Family helps family. Trust me, as Brinn gets older I am going to need you and Shelby to help.”  

Together they walked up to the house where the office had a video conference phone set up.  Justin and Molly sat behind Brian’s desk with Paul next to them in the stroller. Justin called the number Brian had texted him and Tyler’s face popped up on the screen.

“Hey, Justin!  Oh, and Molly. Glad the two of you could join us.”  Justin felt Molly tense up.

“Hi Tyler, so what have the three of you come up with,” he slipped an arm around Molly’s waist.

“Well, a lot of this will depend on Molly and her ability to pull it off.”

“Don’t worry about me.  I can do this,” Molly almost sneered.  

“Well, you will call Price and tell him your brother and Brian can join you for drinks.  He is going to have to get a vibe that they are interested and then he is going to pump you for more information. You are going to have to…”

Paul interrupted him with a squeal.  Justin reached over Molly and picked him up so Molly would be less distracted.

“May I go on?” Tyler asked

“Mr. Harris, if you have a problem with my son…”

“No, I am just on a time crunch and this is not a small project we are working on. Now during the drinks Brian and Justin will answer questions with a set of answers I will give to Brian.  You don’t have to use the exact answers but they will give you an idea of what will pique his interest. We haven’t been able to figure out if he is more interest in the art world and he is using the real estate as a cover or if he has a scheme that has to do with getting money just in a fake land deal.  So, after you two leave, Molly, it will be your job to answer the questions he will then ask you. Hopefully, it will go smoothly and you can invite him to the vineyard for lunch on Sunday. Then he will get a look at the art if he is interested in it.”

Paul again started chattering, especially when Brian appeared on the screen.  “Hi, Paul. Are you being a good boy today?”

Paul chatted back at him.

“Well, Paul, if you want to take over the meeting…”  Now Tyler was laughing. “Do you have any questions, Ms. Taylor?

“Yes, what am I supposed to do once Brian and Justin have left.  I will have to ride back to the vineyard.”

“Well, I don’t expect  you to...well, be as natural as you can be.  I don’t know how involved you have been in the past but you are going to need to act like you have in the past. Can you do that? I mean if he expects…”

“Detective Harris, don’t go there.  So I have to let him touch me and not act like he is who he is?”

“If you can’t do that we need to call this off now.  Dan, we can use your plan instead. You have had training in…”

“Harris, I didn’t say I wouldn’t do it!”  Molly was now furious. “I will do this and if I have to fuck him, I will fuck him.”

“Molly! You can’t give…”

“Shut up, Justin.  This man thinks I am a poor weak girl and a strong man, like Dan, could handle it.  Well, I have never gotten the idea that Andrew was interested in men but he sure as hell is interested in my body.”

Molly took her son and walked out of the room.

Brian put his hand on Tyler’s shoulder, “I think I understand why you are single.  Do you have this effect on all women?”

“If you do, I would gladly teach you the ways of ‘real’ men,” Dan put a hand on Tyler’s shoulder.

“I will talk to her,” Justin said. “Molly will be able to pull this off but I don’t like thinking about her alone with him.  I know she can do it but she has had a rough year. She finally thought she might have found someone and he is this con.”

“I can see why she….”  Tyler started but Brian put a hand on his shoulder.  “I would stop talking before my husband feels the need to some defend his sister’s honor or worse yet make me stand up for her.”

“I am sorry.  I didn’t mean anything.  His guy and his partner has been running us all over the state and this is the first time I am close.  I just don’t want to think that all of this rests on the shoulders of a young woman that has no experience.  I am sorry if I offended her. Please Justin tell Molly I wasn’t questioning her ability to follow our plan.”

“I will.  Is she going to wear a wire?”

“Not this time.  On Sunday I hope Dan can plant a bug on him somehow.  I am not sure how or in what yet but we will figure something out.  Please, let me know if any questions come up.”

As the call started coming to an end Justin said, “Baby, when are you coming home today?”

“I am not sure, Sunshine.  I shouldn’t be much longer.”

“Would it speed your return if you knew Brinn was gone until dinner? We could…”

“I will try to be home in an hour two at the very top.”

After the phone call had ended Dan said, “You two are really sickening sometimes.  You are so lucky.”

“Still on your honeymoon?”

“Well, we have been together almost 20 years but everyday with that man is something new and exciting.”

“I would never have guessed.  He must have been a teenager.” Tyler wasn’t sure how old Justin was but he didn’t look much over 30.

“He was young but Justin is 37.  He was a senior in high school when we met.”

“You are really fortunate to have found the right person.”

“That sounds like it comes from someone who’s had some bad luck.  A man with your….everything, shouldn’t have trouble.” Dan said.

“I’d rather not talk about it.”  Tyler stood. I have to make a call to my superior and tell him the plans. Dan, feel free to use the desk you’ve used before.  I know you said you had some work to do. You can tap into our system to do those checks you need to do.”

Tyler left the room and Dan and Brian looked at each other.  “Now that man has been burned,” Dan commented.

“Ya, I would say it was nasty. But, since my husband has some free time, I think I will go home.”

“I will see you later, Brian,” Dan touched Brian’s arm.  “I hope Justin knows how lucky he is.”

“We both know it.  Dan, you will find someone.  I know you will.” Dan brushed his lips on Dan’s cheek.  “By the way, did you call the realtor?”

“I did.  I am meeting with someone late this afternoon so don’t plan on me for dinner. I just hope this guy is good.  He is taking over the office you directed me to. “

“I am sure you will find something.  There is plenty out there. I have been doing enough business deals to know there is lots out there.  You aren’t in any hurry are you?” Brian stood to leave.

“No, I’m not in a hurry.  I just hope to find something before I go back to New York. I will see you when I get home.  Go to Justin.” They walked into the hall and went opposite directions.

When Brian arrived home he went looking for Justin. He hoped to find him in the bedroom but he didn’t so he looked in the studio next.  There Justin stood working on canvas and talking to Paul, who was in a playpen. He slipped in silently.

“Now Paul, I can’t go into detail but that Uncle of yours is just about the most amazing person you could ever meet.  And in bed, god just thinking about him makes my heart start beating faster and when he touches me, I almost want to….” Brian’s arms slipped around Justin’s waist from behind and he worked his hand into Justin’s waistband.  Justin leaned against Brian giving his hand a little more room to work his way inside. “You made good time getting home. I thought it would be another hour.”

“After the invitation on the phone….” Brian’s hand found what it was looking. “He is young enough yet isn’t he?”

“Oh, yes, he can’t speak yet.” Brian’s hand undid Justin’s shorts and then reached back and undid his own fly. He moved to a doorway and then in one motion thrust all the way in. Justin cried out in the exquisite moment of pain and pleasure and what he was doing with his hand. He put his thumb over the tip holding him back until he couldn’t hold it any longer.  Together they shouted as the exploded together.

The next thing they heard was “Mamamama,” Paul repeated as he saw his mom walking up to the door. Justin and Brian ducked around the corner as Justin tried to get his pants back in place as he heard the door open.  “Mamama!”

“Justin?”

Justin’s head peaked around the corner.  “I will be right there, Mollusk.” As he walked out moment’s later he was still flushed and damp with perspiration.

“Come out, Brian. Well, come out if it’s put away.”  Brian walked out and put his arm around Justin.

“Did you get any sleep?” Justin asked Molly.  

“I did, thanks to you.” Molly picked up Paul.  “I hope you weren’t telling him the benefits of sex yet.”

“No,” Brian smiled, “We’ll wait a couple years before that.”

“Well, I am going to go back to the cottage and I plan to eat there tonight.  It will just be the three of you I think.”

Brian and Justin went back to the house.  Brian took something out of the freezer and put it in the oven.  “When is Brinn coming home?”

“Tia will be home in about an hour.”

“Tia?”

Justin smiled “I thought it was time for her to get used to that name.  She is having a little makeover today so let’s try to use Tia until she leaves.  She will be gone by the time we have lunch here with that man.”

“Well, since we seem to have time….” Justin headed toward the bedroom with Brian close behind.  

An hour later they heard, “Dads? Where are you?”

“We’re coming Br...Tia.”  Justin walked in and stopped dead.  Justin smiled slowly and nodded.

Brian came around the corner and said, “Holy HELL! What, I mean how, Wow…”

Tia Brinn Taylor-Kinney stood in front of them with shoulder length dark brown hair. “Hi Dad.  Did I surprise you?”

“You sure did.”  He looked over at Justin.

“We thought if she was to be someone else this coming week it would be good to look differently.

“Well, you definitely look different.”

“Am I still pretty, Dad.”

“Nothing could make you anything but gorgeous, Tia.”

The family of three talked as they ate dinner and then Justin and Brian helped Brinn start packing.  

Early Saturday Tia left with Jim and Chantel.  Dan had planted a couple of his men at the camp as employees to watch over her in case there was trouble.  

Brian and Justin were glad they had something to think about or they would never have been able to let her go.  Tonight they started the con on the con.