Chapter 13

Brinn couldn’t sleep.  First, she thought about the look John had on his face when he recognized her in Zach’s car and then her mind went to Zach’s goodbye.  He had confused her but she loved it. She knew she was far too young to be involved with a man that age but he was so kind and so sweet. He treated her with respect no matter how old she was. She started wondering if her dads might have a job for him.  She already was wondering if her dads would find him something to do. She had several ideas but then she realized, her dads might not be ready to do much for her for a while. She would have to earn their trust again. Eventually, she got up and started packing.  She knew she was going home.

John went to the hotel to check on Tyler and tell him about his evening.  When he let himself in, Tyler was eating some toast. If it was possible, Tyler looked pale.  “Hey, you don’t look so good,” John commented.

“I quit throwing up about an hour ago and I thought I would try this,” he held up the toast.  “I had to sweet talk room service to get this. So how was dinner with Betty?” He laughed a little.

“Betty was actually a very nice dinner companion.  She was interesting and, Tyler, I saw Brinn and I have her address.  I was actually just checking on you and then I am going to go stakeout her place. I have a rental car being dropped off here in a few minutes. Brinn saw me, too, and I don’t want her to slip away.  Is there anything I can get for you before I leave again? Do you need something to drink or something else to eat?” John walked over and rubbed Tyler’s shoulders. He spent a couple seconds working out some knots Tyler had gotten, probably leaning over the toilet.  

“John,” Tyler started to protest but then he realized it was helping, “that feels really good.”

“I always do this for Tony if he isn’t feeling well.  Sorry, I should have asked.”

“No, John.  I admit when I first got in this family, I might have been a little shy even sharing a suite with you. I know that was stupid but I just never had a good friend that happened to be gay.”

“Shut up, Tyler.  I understand,” John really worked a spot and then just for fun kissed the top of Tyler’s head. “I’m going to grab some snacks and water.  Tyler got up and went into the kitchen and brought back an empty sports drink bottle, handing it to John. “What’s this for?”

“If you plan to drink water or coffee, you’ll need it.”

John scrunched his nose, “Oh, ya, that might come in handy.”  The phone rang and John picked it up. It was the front desk letting him know there was a car waiting for him.  “Is there anything I can do for you before I go?”

“No, I’ll be fine.  Thanks for checking on me.  I plan to go to bed.”

“Well, call me when you wake up. I won’t call. You need to sleep. Feel better, my friend.” John left  the room for his first stakeout.

John pulled onto a street with very nice homes.  He drove past the address he had been given and he parked down the street so he could have a good view of the house and the waiting began.  

By the time the sun started lighting the sky, Brinn had finally fallen asleep at about 5:00 after packing up all her belongings.  Just before the sun came up, John had got out of the car to stretch a bit. He didn’t know when he should approach the house but he figured he would wait until he saw movement.  He had looked up the owner of the house and found Calvin’s background. He sounded legit. He had just retired and decided he’d like some company part of the time so he had set up the air B & B. 

The first movement he saw was a car leaving with a man, he figured was Calvin, pulling out about 8:00.  He thought he would wait until 8:30 or so before he went to the door. He had to smile when he thought of a sleepy Brinn.  She never liked to get up.

Tina knocked on Brinn’s door, “Tia,” she opened the door and ran into a suitcase. “Tia, why are your suitcases out?”

Brinn stretched, “What time is it?”

“It’s a little after 8:00.  What are you doing with your suitcases out?”

“I’m going home.  Everything is packed.”

“But, honey, I thought you liked New Orleans.  I thought you liked your job. What about your date.  That’s why I came in. I wanted to see how your date went.”

“Mom, you weren’t interested enough to stay up last night.  You were too busy screwing to wait up and ask me. Besides, I saw John in town.  It is only a matter of time before he finds me and Mom, I need to go home. I miss Dad and Daddy so much.”

“Of course, the mighty Taylor Kinney household.  Does that mean you don’t want to see me again?”

“Mom, that’s not true. I am sure they will let me see you now.  I love you, but Mom, you don’t want me around. You’re the kind of woman who needs a man not a kid.”

“But, Tia, we worked so hard to get together.”

“Mom, I want to call Zach.  Please leave my room so I can have some privacy.”

“Tia, we aren’t done talking.”

“Yes, Mom, we are.  I’m going to call Zach and then together we will call John. I am sure…” Brinn saw the look on Tina’s face.  “Oh, Mom, I will visit and I will tell my dads I insist on visiting you.” Brinn got out of bed and walked to the door.  “I mean it, Mom, I will visit you often. I love you.”

“Oh, Tia, I’m sorry about last night.  I should have stayed up but Calvin made me dinner and he was so cute….”

“Mom, I like him.  If you do, go for it. I think he is a nice man and he seems to really like you. Now, Mom, I need to make that call.” She gently shut the door placing her mom in the hallway.

Brinn called Zach.  “Good morning, Brinn.  Did you get any sleep?”

“It’s not too early  is it? I need to talk to someone.”

“How about I pick you up in half an hour? We can go got breakfast and you can talk about it.”

“That sounds great.  I am so...Oh, Zach I’m so confused.”

“Hang in there.  Wash your face. Pull your hair back in a ponytail and meet me in front of your house in 25 minutes.  Brinn, …. I’m here for you.”

Brinn did exactly as he said.  She washed her face and brushed her hair, pulling it back out of her face.  She had been wearing extra makeup lately to look older but now she looked in the mirror and was glad she saw a 15 year old and not a 19 year old.  She told Tina she would be back for her stuff and to say goodbye and then waited outside for Zach.  

John saw her then.  He wanted to run over and take her in his arms but then the car from last night pulled up.  A young man got out and Brinn ran into his arms. John sighed in relief when he appeared to give her a kiss on the forehead but they didn’t go into a heavy embrace.  From a distance this guy gave him the same vibe as when she was with Danny. It would be like Brinn to be drawn to a gay man as a friend. John texted Dan that he was following Brinn right now and she was not with Tina.  It was only about 6:30 in California and is Dan was sleeping in a bit he didn’t want to disturb him.

Dan, however, was not sleeping.  He was drinking coffee with Brian in his kitchen while listening to Marcus talk to their daughter from her room.  He handed his phone for Brian to read. Dan could see some stress drain from Brian’s face. “Brian, it’s time to decide what to do about Tina.  I mean you could have her put in jail for breaking the restraining order if for no other reason.”

“Dan, I don’t think there really is an option.  If Brinn is healthy and safe, we will come up with a new arrangement.  I will have to calm Justin down, maybe keep it from him until he is more himself.”

“I think you are doing the right thing, Brian. Don’t over react. Hear what Brinn has to say.”

“All I want is Brinn and Sunshine home. Speaking of home, thanks for the bed and coffee.  I just need to be home.”

“Brian, you know you are always welcome here,” Marcus walked in with a smiling Hannah.  Dan reached out for her and she stretched her arms to him.

“Thank you, Marcus.  I know that. I just want to go home.  I want to make sure Brinn’s room is ready.”  He kissed Dan and Hannah and then kissed Marcus.  “I don’t know what I would have done without you two.”  Brian walked out to go to his own place.

John followed Brinn and her friend until they stopped at a little diner.  John again noticed the young man opening Brinn’s door but other than holding her hand he wasn’t all over her. John was glad they sat in the window where he could see them.  He let Tyler know where he was and then waited.

Zach ordered breakfast and when Brinn said she didn’t want anything, Zach told the server to just bring two of the same.  “Zach, I am too nervous to eat anything.”

“Oh, Lulu, you need to eat and I will be there beside you until you tell me all is good.”

“Lulu?”

“My granddaddy used to call my sister Lulu.  He said it was for Louisiana. He was from New York so he always laughed at our accents when we were little. Not making fun of us.  He was a great teaser and we loved him.”

“I never knew my grandfathers.  I have a wonderful grandmother and her husband but he’s great but he isn’t the grandfather type.  He is a lot younger than my grandma but they’re happy and that’s all that counts.”

When their food arrived they talked about growing up in their families and what they wanted in the future.  Finally, Brinn looked at Zach, “I told my mom I was leaving. She wasn’t happy but I think she is more worried about what might happen to her rather than me leaving.”

“Oh, Lulu,” Zach reached across the table and stroked her cheek.  “Damn, Brinn, I have never met someone like you. I mean I have to remind myself that you are 14 but when I look at you now, I see the 14 year old, the girl who is unsure and scared. I want to always be there for you but I know you are far too young for me to feel like this.”

“Well, Zach, if I manage to decide what …..Zach, would you ever move to California?”

“If that’s where you’ll be, I would be there in a heartbeat if I have a job.”

“A job is not a problem, I promise.” John saw them kiss over the table, just a little kiss.  “I think I should call John now.”

John looked up when he heard a tap on the window.  He unlocked the door and Tyler slipped into the passenger seat.  “You look better than last night.”

“I feel much better. Where’s Brinn?” John pointed to the window. “Who’s the guy?” 

“He’s the same guy from last night. He seems like a nice guy, from his actions anyway.”  John was surprised when his phone rang. He didn’t recognize the number but answered it. “John Kinney.”

“John….John, it’s me, Brinn.  I want to come home. Please. I know you are in New Orleans.”

“Oh, Miss Thing.  Of course you can come home.”

“Where are you, John?” 

“If you are finished with breakfast you and your friend just have to come outside. Tyler and I are here.”  

John saw Brinn rush for the door and he got out of the car, starting to walk to the door.  Zach threw money on the table and followed Brinn outside. When Brinn saw John she propelled herself forward and nearly flew into his arms. John’s arms  wrapped tightly around her and she started sobbing. Tears ran down John’s face as he kissed her cheeks. Tyler had gotten out of the car and snapped a picture of the reunion forwarding it to the whole family.  Zach stood a few feet away and could feel the love between Brinn and her cousin instantly. He then noticed the man in the background taking a picture and so he walked around John and Brinn and introduced himself.  “I take it you are Tyler? I’m Zach, a friend of Brinn’s.”  

“Nice to meet you, Zach.  Yes, I am Brinn’s uncle. John was just telling me that you seem to be a good friend to his Miss Thing.”

“Miss Thing?”

“It’s a name he gave her when she was a toddler, long before I was part of this family.”

John was finally setting Brinn back on the ground and wiping his eyes as well as her own. “John, I want you to meet Zach.  Zach, this is my John. I’m sorry, this is John Kinney. I realize I can’t remember your last name.”

Zach extended his hand to John.  “Nice to meet you, sir,” Zach said in his soft southern drawl.  I hope you know Brinn really has missed her family but she also loves her mom.”

Zach slipped an arm around Brinn and she put her head on his shoulder for a minute, “I think it’s all good, isn’t it, John?” She held onto Zach’s arm a little tighter waiting for his response.

“Oh, Brinn, you don’t know how much your dads want you home.  In fact, I need to talk to you about something. Do you want to come back to our hotel?” John looked over to Zach, “You are more than welcome to come with us. It looks like you have been a good friend to Brinn.”

“Brinn, would you like me to come with you?  I will but if you would rather I not come, I understand.”  Brinn and turned whispering something to John. He nodded.

“Zach, could you have dinner with us tonight?”  Brinn leaned against John, now.

“We can’t fly out until I have had a good night sleep so we will leave first thing in the morning.  Brinn will text you where and when to meet for dinner.” John held Brinn tightly against him.

“I’ll be there.  Just let me know where and when.” Zach walked over and took Brinn’s hand, and kissed it before walking to his car and driving away.  

For the first time, Brinn walked to Tyler and gave him a hug.  “I’m so glad you are here, too.” Can we go get my stuff from Mom’s and then go to your place?  I just want to tell her I will talk to her soon and get ready to go home.”

“Of course, Brinny.  Does Tina know you’re leaving?”  John asked.

“Yes, I talked to her this morning and told her I loved her but I needed to go home.”

“Ok, why don’t you text her and let her know we are on our way.  She may not want to see me. You know we have history.”

Brinn let her mom know they were coming to get her belongings. As they pulled up John reached for Brinn’s hand and squeezed.  We are going to let you take the lead, Miss Thing. If you want us to just grab your stuff and go we can do that but if you want to stay and talk to her for a bit, we will just wait outside.  You make the call and let us know.”

“We’re here for you, Brinn,” Tyler said from the back seat, squeezing her shoulder.  Tyler and John had a conversation about telling Brinn about Justin but had decided to wait until she was done dealing with Tina.  Tina didn’t need to know about Justin and Brinn needed all her composure to say goodbye to her difficult mom.

Tina and Calvin were on the porch when they arrived.  Brinn had told her family about Calvin and let them know he was a good guy..  Brinn got out of the car and slowly walked up the front walk followed closely by John and Tyler.  The last few steps Brinn ran up the steps and into Tina’s arms. “I’m sorry, Mom. I know I said I would always be with you, but I don’t think that was meant to be and I think you know that, too.  I will always be a part of your life. I promise.”

“But will they let you?”  Tina’s eyes flashed up at John.

“Hello Tina, yes, Brian said they would work with you and Brinn so you can see each other.  I will fly her myself if need be.”

“You’re a  pilot?”

“Yes, I have been flying for about five years now. Brinn, if it is alright, Tyler and I will follow Calvin and get your things while your mom and you say goodbye.” He looked up and smiled at  Calvin who opened the door and led the men in. Twenty minutes later, Brinn did a walk thru to make sure she didn’t leave anything and by the time she walked back out on the porch Tina was standing in Calvin’s arms.  

John couldn’t bite his tongue any longer as Tyler walked Brinn to the car, John stepped close to Tina.  “I know Brinn deserves to see you and if she wants to, she will be allowed but it is so obvious that you haven’t changed.  You are still first in your life. Thanks for giving us our son but I am so thankful he wants nothing to do with you!”

“John, you have become as hard as your uncle.” Tina scowled at John.

“That is a real compliment.  Uncle Brian puts nothing before his family.  I hope I can say the same.” John turned and walked to the car, “Oh, ya, in case you are interested, no charges will be brought against you.”  John got in the car and they pulled away. Brinn had sat in the back seat and with tears running down her face she felt her heart ripping apart. She would always be glad she had spent time with her but she now knew why her dads had kept them apart.  John saw her in the rearview mirror and knew he was going to totally tear her apart when they got to the hotel.

The three arrived at the hotel and went up to the suite.  John looked at Brinn and said, “You look really tired, Brinny.  How about you curl up and take a nap. You can use my bed. I need a shower and then a short nap before we go to dinner. 

“John, are you trying to avoid something?  Are my dads really mad? Are they going to send me somewhere?  Please, John, tell me now. I need to know what you aren’t telling me.”

“Damn, Brinn, I wanted to wait with this. Come here.  Sit with me.” Tyler stood off to the side and John let him know he could go to his room.  Brinn snuggled up to John but then turned so she could see his face. John took out his phone and called Brian. He put it on speaker phone.  “Hey, Uncle Brian. I have someone sitting next to me I think you want to talk to.”

Brian had just finished spending time in Brinn’s room.  He changed the sheets and opened the window for a few minutes so it smelled fresh and when his phone rang and he saw it was John he answered right away.  

“John, you found her?  You have her.”

Tears filled Brinn’s eyes as she heard her dad’s voice.  “Hi, Dad. Is Daddy there, too?”

“Brian,” John started speaking, “Brinn was worried you didn’t want her to come home.”

“Oh Brinny, I almost hired a plane to come meet you when I heard they knew you were there but, Sweetheart, I didn’t want to leave your Daddy.”

“Why couldn’t Daddy come, too?” Brinn looked at the phone but then looked at John. 

“Brian, we’ll call you back. I think it is best if Brinn and I talk.”

“Thanks, John.” The line went dead.

“John, you’re scaring me.  Where is Daddy! What happened to Daddy!”  Brinn was now in panic mode. Her hands were shaking along with her entire body.

John pulled her onto his lap like he had hundreds of times when she was a little girl.  He pulled her close like he would Jonna. “Brinny, you know your daddy doesn’t always handle stress so well and after you left, Justin had some problems.”

“John, you have to tell me what is going on?  Where is Daddy? What did I do to him?”

“Oh, honey, you had no idea this would happen.  Justin has been in the hospital for about a month.  He has made some progress and we are sure as soon as he knows you are back and he sees you, he will be back to himself.in no time.”

“God, what did I do!  I was so selfish. I only thought about me.  I thought they were just being mean but they knew all along what was best.  Oh, John, I want to go home. Can’t we fly home right now? I want to get home to Daddy.  I’m so sorry. I never…..I didn’t think….” John pulled her close and rocked her like he did when she was a baby.   He cooed to her and stroked her hair. She cried herself to sleep. He picked her up and carried her into his room and laid her down.  He kissed her and covered her up.  

Tyler looked up when John walked in and before John could say anything, Tyler got up and put his arms around John.  John had never been more grateful. Tyler wasn’t usually a hugger but he could see John needed it. “How is Brinn?” Tyler asked when John took a step back.  

“She is sleeping.  She took it like I expected. She blames herself.  She wanted to go home tonight. Damn, I wish Tony was here.”

“I will go out to the living room.  You take your time shower, nap, call your husband.  I plan to call Molly. If Brinn wakes I will take care of her.”

As Tyler pulled the door shut he heard John say, “I miss you so much, Antony.  I can’t wait to see you and the kids.” Tyler pulled out his own phone and called Molly.

Brian drove to the hospital and went to Justin’s room but he wasn’t there.  The nurse directed him to the garden where he found his Sunshine on the same bench they had shared a couple days before.  Justin saw him and gave him a half hearted smile. 

“Hey, Sunshine,” Brian sat next to him and kissed him lightly.  “I have some great news.”

Justin turned toward  Brian and the look on his face had so much hope.  “Brinn is with John and Tyler. She will be home tomorrow.  Our girl is safe, Sunshine. She is on her way home.”

Justin couldn’t seem to form words or tears but he put his arms around Brian’s neck and rested his head on his shoulder. Brian pulled him up on his lap.  “Sunshine, you’ll be able to come home, I’m sure. Please come back to us. Brinn will need her daddy. She asked about you. She can’t wait to see you.”

“When will she be here?  I think she should be here by this time tomorrow.  Sunshine, I need you home.” Brian had to kiss him. His whole body needed him.  He put his hands on either side of Justin’s face and brought it to his own. As their lips met it was as though the fog cleared from Justin’s mind.  He slid his tongue into Brian’s mouth and Brian shivered as a dance began. He wanted to feel Justin’s skin against his. He wanted to lay with him but to his surprise, what he wanted most was to feel Justin buried deep inside him.  Justin changed his position and was now straddling Brian. They were both desperate for each other. Justin started to unbutton Brian’s shirt 

“Whoa, Sunshine, we can’t….Oh, god, I want it but no, we can’t.  You need to get better and come home. Justin, I know you are going to  come home soon. Let me walk you to your room and then tomorrow, Brinn will be here.”

“Brian, I love you.”

“I know.  I love you so much. Come back to me soon.”

Brian kissed him once more as he said goodbye. “Tomorrow, Sunshine.”

Brinn woke up and realized John must have carried her here.  She had slept a couple hours. She got up and walked into the living room and found Tyler watching TV.  “Hey, Brinn, how are you feeling?”

“A little better.  I have to call Dad.”

“Brinn, he will understand if you text him.  On second thought, let me give him a call. Would you like to take a bath or a shower? Maybe call Zach.  Why don’t you just have him meet us here at 6:00. If he knows of a good place to eat, maybe he could get us reservations if we need them that early.”

Brinn had a bit of a glazed look on  her face. “I’m sorry, Brinn. I didn’t mean to throw that all on you.”

“Why are you and John being so nice to me?  I mean, Aunt Molly must hate me for what I did to Daddy.”

“Brinn, everyone knows that wasn’t your fault.  Justin realized you had tried to get him to understand but he wouldn’t listen so he doesn’t blame you.  You have a couple hours until dinner. You do whatever you want. Call whoever you want. I am sure Danny would love to hear from you and so would Gus.  Sit in the tub and talk. That’s one of Molly’s favorite things to do.”

“Thanks Uncle Tyler.”

“For what?”

“Just for making me remember what normal is again.”

“Brinn, nothing about you will ever be normal,” he walked over and hugged her.  She wrapped her arms around him and he kissed her head. She realized how much she had missed all these men and couldn’t wait to see the rest of the family.  He turned her around and shoved her gently toward the room.

Brinn followed Tyler’s suggestion.  She filled the tub with water and some bubble bath and as she slipped into it she decided to call Zach first so he knew the evening plans.

“Lulu, you alright?”

“I’m not good but I’m alright. Before I forget, can you be here about 6:00?  And if you know of a restaurant can you make us reservations, Tyler and John will eat anything, a pub or whatever. Zach, my daddy….” Brinn went on and told Zach all about what had gone on back home and how she knew she was to blame. 

Zach comforted her the best he could on the phone.  His heart broke for her and he had to keep reminding himself that Brinn wasn’t an 18 year old woman but a 14 year old girl.  After 45 minutes Zach said, “Lulu, I better get going. I will get us a reservation and then I will change and come over.”  

Brinn had noticed he had started coughing the last few minutes and was getting harder as they had continued.   “Are you getting sick, Zach?”

“No, I just have this….I just need to take my medicine.  I will see you in about 45 minutes.”  

“Thanks, Zach.  I am going to miss you so much.”  They hung up and Brinn got out of the tub. When she was dressed she called Danny.  

“Oh, Tia, I am so glad to hear from you.”

“Danny, could you call me Brinn.  I was such an idiot. Tia is the person my mom wanted me to be.  I will be home tomorrow. How is my daddy, really? I don’t believe they have told me everything. Why did Dad bring Daddy to the hospital?”

“Brinn, I don’t know…”

“Danny, you are my best friend.  I need to trust you.”

“Justin wasn’t doing well but then he started hurting himself.  That’s when Brian knew he couldn’t take care of him. But Marcus has been visiting him all the time and he is doing a lot better.He knows he shouldn’t have stopped you from seeing your mom but he will be Ok.  Marcus is sure of it.”

“Thanks, Danny.  How is Britt?”

Brinn smiled as she heard Danny talk about his boyfriend and how much he cared about him.  He even filled her in on a few details of his birthday which made Brinn smile. “I have missed you Brinn.  We need to have a sleepover soon.”

“I would love that and Britt could come, too.  I should get to know him better if he is going to be around for a while.”

“I hope he is.  He is really great and I would like you to get to know him but I need time to tell you all about him without him there.”

“Like how he turns you on? How when he touches you….”  

“Yes, Brinn, like how Britt makes me forget about everything but what his hands and mouth are doing,” he went silent for a moment.  “I have missed you, Brinn.”

They hung up and Brinn got ready for dinner.  By the time she came out, John and Tyler were sitting on the couch and Brinn walked out.  “Miss Thing, you have grown up. I don’t know if you got taller but you have matured.” John  said as he walked over and hugged her.

“Well, I had to take care of mom a lot.”

“I don’t have to beat Zach up, do I?”

“Oh John, last night was our first date and he was the sweetest, most understanding, protective….”

“Ok, ok...Last night was really your first date? You seemed very close this morning.”

“John, there is something special about him.  He seemed to care about me even when I told him I was 14.  He instantly switched to big brother mode...until he kissed me.”  She smiled over at John who just shook his head. “It was my first kiss, and  you know what?”

“What, Brinn?”  John smiled.

“I really liked it.”  Just as she said it, there was a knock on the door and she rushed to get it.  She opened the door and Zach stood there. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him before letting him in.  Zach walked up and shook first John’s and then Tyler’s hand. Brinn looked at him and thought he looked a little pale.  She walked over to him and put her arm in his. “Did you make reservations?”

“Yes, there is a really good restaurant right around the corner.  Once I realized where the hotel was,” he stopped and coughed and then continued, “I thought it would be the perfect low key location.”

“Are you alright, Zach?”  Brinn could hear him wheezing.

“Just a minute,” Zach said softly.  He turned around and used an inhaler.  “Sorry, I’m having a few issues this evening.”

“Do you have asthma?”

“Something like that.  If you’re ready, we should probably go.  They don’t like it when you’re late for a reservation.”  Brinn didn’t leave his side interlocking her fingers with his.  As they walked she looked up at him. 

“Are you sure you want to walk?”

“Ya, I’m fine.  The inhaler is helping already.  Are you sure you’re 14?”

“Well, basically I’m 15, but yes, and that doesn’t mean I can’t see when something isn’t quite right.”

“We’ll talk about it sometime if you want to stay in touch.”

“I definitely want to be in touch,” her arm slipped around his waist and she grazed the top of his ass as she did.

John and Tyler both noticed but seeing Zach didn’t react they let it go. They entered the restaurant and they were ushered to a booth.  They all liked the place immediately. They ordered and while they waited, John and Tyler played a game of pool in a game room nearby. Brinn looked up at Zach and said, “Why did you wait so long to ask me out?  I saw you looking at me from the first day.”

“Brinn, I could tell you were way out of my league and….”  Zach turned away from her upturned face.

“Zach, what is it?”

“Lulu, I don’t let myself get involved.  I….I won’t….”

The server brought their appetizers and John and Tyler returned to the table, John giving Tyler a bad time after winning the game and soon they were all laughing and enjoying the food.  It wasn’t long before John was ready to go back to the hotel. He would leave very early in the morning to prepare the plane and then Tyler and Brinn would come a couple hours later.  

Tyler looked at Brinn, “You coming?”

“I’ll be there in a little bit.  Zach will walk me back.”

“John, you sleep in your room.  I’ll sleep on the sofa. You have a big day.  I just ride along.”

John kissed her cheek.  “Just remember I won’t sleep until you get home so don’t make it too long.” he looked at Zach and Zach nodded.  

After Brinn’s bodyguards left, she nuzzled up against Zach who put his arm around her. They didn’t say anything for a couple minutes.  Eventually, Brinn said, “If my dads have a job for you, will you come to California?”

“Oh, Brinn, I would love to be close to you but I...I went to school to be a researcher.  I want to keep working in that field. I just…. I don’t know, Lulu, you’re so young but oh lord, what are you doing to me?” Zach stood up, “Let’s get out of here.”  He led her out of the restaurant and pulled her into his arms, his mouth brushed her but he didn’t let it go further than that out on the sidewalk. They walked silently all the way to the hotel and as they entered the elevator, Zach finally kissed her the way she wanted to be kissed.  His tongue invaded her mouth and she felt the thrill of her first romantic kiss and she didn’t want it to end. As the door opened and they stepped out and outside the room, Zach kissed her once more gently. Looking into her eyes, he said, “This isn’t goodbye, Lulu Star.”

“Star?” she choked a bit.

“You will be a star someday.  I know it. And I hope I will be around to see it.”

“Why wouldn’t you be around?  I want you around all the time?”

“Good night, Lulu.”  Zach timed the goodbye so he could dive into the elevator just as the doors closed. 

The door to the room opened as the elevator started descending.  John picked Brinn up and as she wrapped her arms around his neck and sobbed. John shut the door with his foot and carried her into the bedroom with him. He sat on the bed and rocked her.  “Oh, Brinn, I hate to see you like this.”

“I’ll be ok, John.  Really, I will. I will see him again.  I know I will. You should go to sleep, John.”

“Would you like to sleep in here with me?  It is a big bed. There is plenty of room.”

“Oh, may I? I don’t want to be alone.”

“Sure, Miss Thing, put on your pajamas.” A few minutes later Brinn was curled up by John’s side, “Brinn, did I hear him call you Lulu?”

“Ya, he calls me Lulu Star.  Lulu after Louisiana. It was a nickname his grandpa used and he calls me Star, because he says someday I’ll be one.”

“He is a very smart young man,” John’s eyes fluttered shut.  “Love you, Brinny.”

“I love you, John.”

In the morning, John slipped out early and Tyler and Brinn took an Uber over to the airstrip when it was time.  Once on the plane Brinn called Brian. She knew it was early but it was time she talked to him. “Good morning, Daddy.  I’m sorry I didn’t call again last night.”

“Tyler called and I understand, sweetheart.  You have had a couple very rough days.”

“How was Daddy when you saw him yesterday?”

“He was so happy to hear you were coming home today.  We hope you will get to see him this afternoon. Brinny, your daddy is getting better.  I can tell but it will be a bit before he is home to stay and this isn’t all your fault.  You know he was having some problems before you left.”

“I thought about that last night.  I couldn’t sleep. Did you know John snores? Anyway...:”

“You slept with John?”

“Well, our room only had two beds and I was going to sleep on the couch but…”

“I understand,”  Brian laughed. It was so good to hear his little girl and she sounded so happy.

“Dad, I am really sorry I ran away.  Mom didn’t plan it, I did.”

“I know,”  Brian heard the door open to the house and Gus walked in. “Would you like to talk to your brother?”

“Oh, is Gussy there?”

“Hey, Brinn.  I am so glad you are almost home.  I have missed you.”

“I missed you too, Gussy.  And I’ve missed Shelby and your kids.” 

“Well, I hope I can see you later.  My day is pretty busy but….”

“GUS!”

“I’m meeting you at the airport along with most of the family, I think.  I have to get to work but I will see you soon.”

Brian said goodbye, too, and then looked at Gus, “Are you going to skip your night with Seth to be with your sister?”

“Pops, you aren’t serious, are you?  Of course I’m going to be here tonight.  Shelby told me she and Molly have a party planned.”

“Are Seth and Isabella invited?”

“Pops, I honestly don’t know but you know my family always comes first and Seth knows that too.  I will talk to you a little later to make sure I have the time right for the airport.” He kissed Brian on the cheek.  “I hope to stop at Dad’s, too. Busy day,” and Gus was gone.  

As soon as he got in the truck Gus called Seth, “Can you be in my office in 15 minutes?”

“Sure, what is it?”

“Just be there.”

Seth was waiting in Gus’ office when he arrived.  He walked in and carefully locked the door. Turning, he stepped into Seth’s arms and crushed his mouth against Seth’s.  His hands went down Seth’s pants. He began to grind against his fly and moments later both had their pants loose and Gus pulled out a condom. Seth turned offering himself and Gus quickly slipped it on and then with one slow and steady push he found his pelvis pushed against Seith’s ass. Gus was a madman.  He thrust over and over while Seth stroked himself until they both shuttered.  

A few minutes later as they sat on the sofa.  “I needed that so badly. I hope….well, tonight…”

“I know you’ll be with your sister and that’s where you belong but I am glad you called.  Gus Kinney, I love you.” He kissed Gus, holding him close.

“Seth, if….Could you come to Stone House about 10:00.  I thought this would be enough…. Seth will it ever be enough?”

“As long as we can be together, we will make it enough.”  Seth got up and straightened his clothes and Gus did the same. “I’ve got to go.” Seth pulled Gus into his arms as he opened the door, “Gus, I love you.”

“Seth,  I never meant this to happen but I love you, too.”  They kissed once more and Seth turned to walk directly into Izabella.  Seth had no doubt from the look on her face she had heard them. Seth wasn’t sure if he should duck or drop on his knees.  

“What the hell are you doing? How dare you!”

“Bella, please, I love you.  That hasn’t changed.” Seth stammered.  

Gus heard the voices get farther away as the couple moved up to their apartment.  He wondered if he should follow them but he decided that wouldn’t be smart and he really had things he needed to do and he was sure it would cause Seth more trouble.  He sat at his desk trying to work but his mind kept wandering upstairs.

“Bella, listen to me.  I love you.”

“I just heard you say you loved Gus.  That isn’t part of the deal. Gus is supposed to be your play thing.  He is supposed to be your toy for a while. You aren’t supposed to love him!”  Seth was surprised to see her tears rather than just anger. Bella never cried.  She was always sure of herself.

Seth stepped nearer to her but she threw the salt shaker at him. “Bella, please, let’s sit down and talk about this.”  Seth wanted to hold her but she picked up the pepper shaker and this time he didn’t get his hand up fast enough this time and the glass dispenser caught him about the eye.  

“Bella, I love you so much  more today then I did when we married. Do you feel how much I need you?”  I will always need you!” Isabella had a shocked look as Seth felt something wet trickling down his temple. 

“Oh, Seth,” She stepped closer to him and began to reach for his head but stopped.  She stepped around him and got a clean cloth. She dampened it and walked over to Seth.  Dabbing at the injury, she carefully looked at it. “Fuck, why! How could you fall for him?” She led him to a counter stool and made him sit down.  “You should have a couple stitches.”

“Just put a bandaid on it.” Bella pulled out a bandaid and as she put it on him, he pulled her close and began to kiss her neck. “I want you so bad.  I love you, Bella.” He slid his hand under her skirt knowing she wouldn’t have anything on underneath it. He knew exactly where to stroke her.

“That’s not fair,” she tried to pull away but ended up untying his fly.  “Just tell me you didn’t just have this up his….” 

“No, Bella, I did not…” his fingers were stroking deep inside her.   

She pulled his cock out and Seth stood and picked her up setting her on the counter.  He brought his mouth down and slipped under her skirt. As he brought his mouth to her warm, wet center his tongue and lips did things that had her screaming in seconds.  He moved the skirt up over her face and then positioned himself and then he grabbed her hips and began to move in and out of her. Soon she was panting and then screaming as she had wave after wave roll through her, but when he bent to kiss her she turned away. As he stepped back and helped her back on her feet, she looked at him and after taking a deep breath she softly said, “Do you want me to go with you to get stitches?”

“You don’t have to,” Seth said as he zipped his pants up again.

“I’ll have your bag by the door when you’re done.”

“Bella, please,” Seth tried to touch her but she stepped out of his reach.

“I need some space.  Please, Seth, I need to think this through. I could share your body but I’m not sure I can share your soul.”

Seth grabbed a jacket and headed to the urgent care.  As he left he noticed Gus was no longer at the office. The only place he could think of going was Stone House. But first he need to get stitches.

Gus parked in the urgent care parking lot.  It was close to the entrance where he was to meet with his dad’s doctor.  He hoped to take him to meet Brinn’s plane. The doctor said Justin had a very good night and he thought a couple hours away would be fine.  He gave Gus some signs to watch out for that would indicate it was too much for him. In that case he should bring him back as soon as he could.  Gus walked to Justin’s room and knocked as he entered.

“Hey, Dad, how are you today?”

Justin came over and kissed his son like he did everytime Gus visited.  “Did you hear? Brinn is coming home today.”

“I know.  That’s why I am here.  How would you like to go meet her plane?”

Justin tensed, “I can leave here?  I can go to the airport? I don’t know….”

“Dad, let’s sit down for a few minutes.  We have time.” Gus led him to the bed and sat down with him. “Dad, if you don’t want to go, if you would rather have her come to see you here…”

“NO! I don’t want her to know I am here.”

“Dad, she knows and she can’t wait to see you, no matter where it is.” Gus wrapped around his dad and held him tight for a few moments.

“Gus, I think I’m getting better.  I really do.feel more in control. Things were starting to fall into place even before they found Brinn.  I am ready to come home. It will be soon. I think they have started backing the medication back. I will be home soon.”

“Dad, you don’t have to rush.  We just want you better.”

Justin looked at his son, “How did you turn out so well with such mixed up parents?”

“Dad, I always knew I was loved and that is all that mattered deep down. I never doubted for one minute that I was loved.  Well, maybe for that day I spent at that little airport I might have questioned it a bit but you showed me you loved me. I just didn’t want to see it.”

“That was one of the worst times of my life.  Not knowing where you were nearly killed me.”

“I’m sorry, Daddy.  I should never have run away.  I guess when you are young and confused you just do stupid stuff.”

“Sometimes you are old and confused and do stupid stuff, too.”  He kissed Gus gently on the lips. “Son, you will never end up like this.  You have always been able to think things through and make good choices.”

Gus hugged him and thought about Seth and hoped that was true.  Gus’ phone beeps and looking at it told him the plane would be landing in about 20 minutes. “Are you ready to go see your daughter?”

“Yes, please don’t go far away, Gus.  I need you close.”

“I am not leaving your side.”  Gus got Justin’s jacket and helped him put it on.  “Are you ready?” he held out his hand and Justin took it.

Justin and Gus walked out arm in arm, just as Seth walked out of Urgent Care.  Gus saw him and wanted to rush to him. There was a bandage on his head. “Dad, do you mind if we say hi to Seth a minute?”

“No, I like Seth.” Gus steered him that direction.  Gus’ eyes locked with Seth’s and asked everything without saying a word.

“Seth, buddy, what happened?”

“Oh, I knocked my head on a flying pepper shaker.”

“Oh, god,” Gus caught himself just before reaching to touch the bandage. “Isabella?”

“She’s a passionate woman in every way.  They just put a little glue on it and a butterfly bandage.  Justin,” he turned toward him. “It is really good to see you.  I hope you are feeling better.”

“I am, Seth, thank you.”

“I am afraid I am going to have to find a place to stay a couple days.  Bella always calms down but she likes to simmer for a few days.”

Seth and Gus’ eyes were locked and Gus’ nod was almost indistinguishable.   “Well, we need to get going. Brinn’s plane is landing soon. Hope your head feels better soon.”  As Gus led Justin away he grabbed Seth’s hand for a split second saying all he needed to.

As Gus and Justin drove up to the airport Brian and Shelby and the kids were already there.  Molly and the kids were pulling up at the same time. Even Tony and the kids had come down. John had been gone a lot lately so Tony decided he needed his husband tonight, not sometime later in the week.

“Papa, Papa,” Tayler and Gage came running at Justin full speed.  He instinctively dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms around them.  

“Oh, my babies.  I have missed you.  I love you so much!” Justin kissed both of them and held them until they squirmed.  “Ok, I will let you go.” he kissed them each once more and stood up to find Brian next to him.  “Hi, baby.”

“Oh, Sunshine,” Brian kissed him, not wanting to let him go until the plane began to land behind them.  As they separated, he said, “Our daughter is home.” He kept both arms wrapped around his soulmate as the plane landed.

John opened the door and he walked down the steps with Brinn.  At the bottom of the steps they paused and as Brinn turned toward her dads she began to run. The next few moments were full of tears and hugs and kisses.  Brinn held onto Justin for a long time as he clung to her. Everyone gave the three of them space so they could just hold each other for a few minutes and as they separate the remainder of the family circled around them all wanting to welcome Brinn back.  The only ones not in the cluster of people were John and Tony and Molly and Tyler. They had coupled up as soon as they could.  

John held on to Tony.  “Me Amore, you have been gone too much. Please promise you will be home for awhile now.”

“I am not going anywhere for a very long time.” John slipped one leg between Tony’s and pressed against him so Tony could feel his need.  He moved his thigh against Tony’s crotch until neither could take anymore. Tony moved John back a step.

“Daddy?” Jonna’s little voice came from behind John.  He turned and scooped up Jonna.  

“Hello, my darling.  How is my best girl?”

“I missed you, Daddy and so did Papa.”

“Did your brother miss me?”

“You know Mateo never says anything.  He is going to be a teenager in a few days.  I don’t think I can live with him.” John had to laugh at that comment.  She sounded so serious but maybe it would be good if he spent more time at home for a while.  Tina was Matty’s mother too and no matter how he ignored that fact, all this stuff with Brinn had to affect him too.

“Well, I am telling Uncle Brian that I need time off so I plan to spend at least a month home.”

Jonna hugged him and kissed him with a loud smack.

Gus guided Justin out of the crowd.  He could see the tension growing on his face. “Dad, why don’t you sit in my truck and I will bring Brinn to you, Ok?’

“Thanks, Gus. I wish I could….”

“Don’t worry about it, Dad. Brinn will want to spend some time alone with you.”  Once he knew Justin was safe in the car and then walked over to Brinn. “Come here, sis,” Gus pulled her into his arms.  “So glad you are home and safe. Danny will be at the house tonight. Right now, Dad needed some space but he needs you, too.”  Brinn didn’t question him. She walked toward the truck and climbed in to sit next to her dad. Justin didn’t say a word. He just held her.

Eventually, Brinn looked up at her daddy, “I know this wasn’t all my fault Daddy, but I’m sorry for my part of it.  I missed you so much and now I know why you couldn’t trust me with mom when I was young and now, I hope to stay in touch with visit her but I belong here and, Daddy, I know what I want to do.  I want to do research, medical research. I am not sure what area yet but I will figure that out while I get my PhD.”

“I am so proud of you.  I can tell how much you have grown up while you were gone.  Tina kept you safe, didn’t she?”

“I’m fine, Daddy.  I will tell you all about my adventure later. You are looking kind of tired.  Let me tell Gus to take you home and I promise I will come see you tomorrow and spend as much time as you would like me to spend with you.”

“Thanks, Sweetie.  I would like that.”  Justin touched her face.

Gus had been keeping an eye on the truck and when he saw Brinn motioning he came over.  “Daddy is ready to go back. I want to go with you.”

Soon the three of them had arrived at the hospital and Gus and Brinn helped Justin settle into his room.  Then the two of them kissed him and walked out to Gus’ truck. Gus hugged her tightly. “I missed you, Brinn.  I understand why you did it but I am glad you realized you belong here.” As they drove away Gus’ phone rang. He knew it was Seth. “Hey Seth, I have Brinn all to myself right now.”

“Oh G, I just wanted to let you know I’m fine.  See you later?”

“Oh sure, Seth.  Practice late tonight should be fine.  I should be there between 9:30 and 10:00.”

“I love you, G.” and the line went dead.

“Did Seth just say he loved you?”

“Of course he didn’t.  He said he loved the tune.  I put some music to some words he had written. He just liked the tune.”  Gus changed the subject as they drove home but his mind was on the man he loved and the meeting that would come later.