Chapter 11

Brenna and Jan Sullivan boarded the plane in Veracruz at noon and by 6:00 p.m. they had arrived at the air B & B in New Orleans.  She had reserved it for a month or until they could find a house to rent. The rooms were lovely and the homeowner, Calvin, was very nice. He looked like he was about 50 years old and by 8:30, Jan and Calvin were chatting on the front porch with a glass of wine.  Brinn laughed inwardly when she saw it was from the Taylor Kinney winery. He had offered the 18 year old Brenna a glass but she turned it down, saying she had to do some research for her interview tomorrow, leaving them alone. At 10:00 pm Tina came in with a smile on her face.

“Mom, how much did you have to drink?”

“Brinn, I only had two glasses of that fine wine.  We just talked. Calvin is a sweet man. He recently sold his business and is now semi retired although he still works part time for the new owner as an advisor.  He said they are looking for a part time office worker who would help with the rebranding of the new company.”

“Mom, you didn’t tell him you worked for Dad did you?”

“No, Tia, I just said I worked in the art department of a New York City advertising company years ago.”

“Just be careful, Mom.  But I have to say, Calvin seems very nice.”

“Yes, he is. Maybe we won’t have to look for a different location.to live.  Maybe we can work out a deal here. I love this neighborhood already.”

“We’ll have to see, Mom.  I’m going to sleep so I am ready for my interview.”

“Tia, you are going to be smarter than anyone at that place.”

“That makes it even harder, Mom.  I can’t seem too intelligent for a kid who was really good in her high school science class and who is taking community college classes now.”

“Honey, you will blow them away.  You are beautiful and smart and everyone loves you.”

“I hope you’re right.  It was decent pay so if you get a part time job with it we should be able to do Ok, especially if your bank finally comes through.”

“Tia, don’t worry about it.  I feel like we are finally where we belong.”  Tina kissed Brinn’s cheek and went to her room to sleep.

Tyler had arrived in Mexico around 4:00 pm. with John.   By the time they got to Veracruz, the area the call came from, it was after 7:00 and they couldn’t very well start knocking on doors in a dark neighborhood, so they decided to find something to eat on the way to their hotel and then start up in the morning.  After talking to Dan they decided to find a place for an early dinner and then they could start first thing in the morning. As they sat together drinking beer and talking about the plan tomorrow, John noticed a painting on the wall. It drew it to him and when he got it on the wall, he looked at it closely and although it wasn’t obvious, John saw it. TBTJ in the corner.  Brinn had painted this. They had found the right place. Tyler called Dan and John called Brian.

“Hey, John, how’d the flight go?”

“Brian, we found her!  No, that’s not right but we found the location.  We are waiting for our dinner to arrive and there was a picture that Brinn obviously painted. We have asked to speak to the manager.”

“God, John, do you think she is still in the area?”

“Tyler and Dan don’t think so but if she was here this morning, we should be able to find some trail.”

“Please, John, I know you will do everything you can to get her home.  We need her so bad.”

“I know Brian.  I told Tony I was going to follow this lead through with Tyler so I don’t plan on going anywhere right now, except where the trail leads us.”

Tyler passed on the same information and texted Molly just as a gentleman walked up. “Good evening, I hear you have a question about one of the paintings on our wall.  I am afraid it is not for sale. The talented young lady painted it just for our place. It is the view from our window, although you can’t tell that at night.”

“No, sir,” Tyler got out his ID and showed it to him.  “We believe that was painted by my niece. She ran away from home over a month ago, with her mother.  Do you know how long she has been here?”

“I believe she has been around about a month.  Do you have a picture of the two?”

Tyler pulled out a flyer he had brought with him.  It was a recent picture of Brinn and an older one of Tina. The manager took the paper and looked at it closely.  “Yes, I believe that might be her. Her hair is now dark. Her mother, she looks older now.”

“Yes, that picture is at least five years old.  Do you know where they are staying?”

“Yes, but they left yesterday.  Your niece, Tia, she brought this painting as a going away gift.  She had been selling her wares but this one hadn’t sold and she couldn’t take it with her.”

“Do you know where they were going,” Tyler asked as the waiter brought their food to the table and told the manager he was needed in the kitchen.

“I am sorry, I don’t intrude.  I need to go but I will stop by with the area they had lived.  I do not know the exact house.” he scurried back to the kitchen. 

“God, Tyler, this is good isn’t it?  I mean we have to getting close.”

“Yes, being about 12 hours behind them is good but it doesn’t guarantee anything, especially with Tina’s sneakiness and Brinn’s intelligence.”

“Well for the night I am going to celebrate the small victory.”  John raised his beer and took a long drag.

“John, do you find it odd that we could find the trail so easy?”

“You think Brinn is leaving a trail of breadcrumbs?”

‘I wouldn’t be surprised. Gus said she sounded homesick.  Maybe her emotions got the best of her or she just wants to go home.”

By the end of the week Tyler and John weren’t as excited.  They had found tickets to Venezuela in Tia and Tina’s name and the description they were given had John flying them to Caracus at the end of the week. But by the time they realized it had been a wild goose chase, no one remembered anyone fitting their description back in Mexico.  The only thing they did get was that before Brinn had left Mexico she had changed her hair color to auburn. Now they wondered where she was trying to blend in.

Gus had been busy all week.  He had wanted to talk with Seth but when he hadn’t managed it the first day he had texted, thanking him for such an amazing gift.  Seth responded with something very nonchalant but Gus knew there had to be a story to something like that. He would find out on Monday.  

Now it was Friday. Marcus had agreed to go to the hospital and had been there three times already.  Marcus was going back today and asked Gus to meet him there. He hoped Gus could observe him with Justin and maybe give him suggestions.  The doctors really had no suggestions. Justin wasn’t responding to anything they had tried so they talked to both Becca and Blake as fellow doctors and counselors who had known Justin for years.  After a phone consultation, Becca and Blake suggested Marcus remind Justin of his family. Justin needed to be needed and he needed to be reminded how people need him. It would help so much if Brinn was here but maybe talking about her would help.  Marcus knew this could destroy Justin but it also could bring him around. At least reminding Justin of his family should have some effect.”

Gus watched Marcus talk to his dad.  It nearly killed him to watch Justin like this.  Marcus was very patient and brought up lots of great family memories. He even tried flirting with him just to get his attention but Justin would only pop in for a  few minutes and then he would be gone again. Gus gave Marcus some suggestions, memories of his childhood but then they went their own ways.

When Gus left the hospital he stopped at his office before going home. He wanted to check with Isabella  if the furniture was going to arrive as scheduled. If it was on time it would be delivered tomorrow. The appliances arrived yesterday and the stone house was ready.  He was ready for Monday. He couldn’t wait….he walked in the back door to his office. “Bella, are you here?”

“I’m in the work room.”  Bella’s lyrical voice called out.  

“Hey, Bella, I’m just checking if the furniture has arrived.”

“It has and it is amazing.  I love the look of it. I am guessing I am not invited over but Seth will love it. I bet it is cozy and warm.”

“I hope it will be.”

“Is it true that you will never spend a night there?”

“Well, I am working on that. I don’t think we need to spend the whole night every week but I do think that….well.”

“There are times you don’t want to be rushed?”

“I’m sorry, I can’t talk about this with you.”

“Can you talk about it with me?” Seth’s voice said playfully behind him.

“Seth, I …. I didn’t expect to see you.”

“Let’s go to your office and talk over a few things,” Seth touched the small of Gus’ back and Gus started for his office.  As they entered the office and the door was shut, Seth’s hand ran down Gus’s back and sat comfortably on his ass. “What have you planned for us, G?”

“Planned?”

“Bella has told me you have a place for us to meet.  And she says it must be special.”

“Is that a problem?  Is she upset?”

“No,  She is happy we have a place to go that isn’t our bedroom and isn’t a hotel.”

Gus, rested his hand  on Seth’s neck, “Before we talk about that, the gift, the pick was beyond amazing but I can’t accept it.  I mean the value of that pick is astronomical and how you even got ahold of it….”

Seth pulled him close, “G, just shut up and kiss me.” Before he realized it Seth’s mouth was pressed against Gus’ and he sighed with pleasure. This man made him feel….  

Gus pulled himself away eventually and said,  “Monday, the Stone house.” He reached into Seth’s pocket making him gasp as his fingers purposely brushed his fingers across Seth’s erect dick as he pulled out his phone.  He added the location to his map app. “I have to go home. It’s Friday family night,” Gus kissed him once more, “You know you’re my safe place right now, don’t you. You take me away from Dad and Brinn and,” Seth kissed him once more.  

“I’ll bring dinner,” Seth said as he licked Gus’ neck.

“Please do.  By Tuesday morning, I was starving!”

“Shelby won’t want to make love when you get home after a couple weeks.  She needed to stake her claim or I should say have you stake your claim, just for security.  She will get comfortable with it.”

“I hope so.  I’m not sure I can do that every week.”  Gus moved toward the door. “I have to go.  See you Monday. I will be there around 6:00.  If you get there ahead of me, I will have a key under that mat for you that will be yours to keep.”  With that, Gus left his office and left the building.

Seth strode out to the workroom where Bella was finishing her work for the day.  “Want to have a little fun before I go to work?” Seth rubbed his erection against her.

“Well, I can’t let that go to waste,” she dropped her panties on the floor and perched on the edge of the work table, using the chair off to the side for support as Seth undid his fly and thrust in over and over. Isabella put her hands up and stopped him for a moment and slid off the table turning around and offering him her ass.

“Bella, are you sure?”  She often enjoyed anal sex but with lots of prepping.  Now she wanted him in her unprepared ass.

“Yes, Seth. Now!  Hard and fast.”

“Isabella, you know that will tear you up.”

“If he can take it, I can.”

“Bella, that’s crazy.  He prepared all day Monday.”

Bella turned around and grabbed his dick and squeezed, “I want this massive dick of yours up my ass or you won’t be able to use it anywhere for a few days.” She began to  squeeze painfully.

“Ok, Ok, Turn around you horny…” With that he did as she asked.  He thrust in as she cried out in pain. As he began to stroke in and out he reached around and found her clit.  He rubbed in circular motions and soon he had filled her ass while she spasmed over and over from his fingers and to end it, he thrust his fingers as far into her as he could feeling her juices running down his hand and down her leg.  As he pulled out of her he saw specks of blood on his cock. He knew it wasn’t serious but she had to be in pain.

Seth pulled her close, “You alright?” He looked down at her tear stained face.

“I’m fine,” She wrapped her arms around her husband’s waist and looked up into his  face. “I love you, Seth Greyson.”

“God, I love you too, Isabella.”

Brinn rushed in, looking for Tina, “Jan, where are you?”

“I’m on the sun porch, T...Brenna.”

Brinn ran in and threw her arms around her mom.  “I got the job! They actually want me to try a position I didn’t  interview for because someone got fired today. I start Monday!”

“That is great, Honey.  I am going in next Tuesday with Calvin and he said they’ll hire me if he gives them the nod.”

“That’s great!  If we both can find steady jobs….Where’s Calvin?”  Brinn looked into the house.  

“He’s in his office on a phone call.”

“If we both have steady jobs there is no reason I won’t be able to be in contact with the rest of my family and still be with you.”

“Do you really think they will give up that easy? Justin hates me.”

“But I don’t and if he sees we are doing well, I think he would rather see me than not see me. I know they love me.”

“I know you’re right about that but they want to possess you, too. They don’t see you as a grown up like I do.  With the new hair style and color you could pass for 20 and we know you are smarter than other 20 year olds.”

Brinn hugged her mom.  “I’m going to look through my clothes and see what I might need to get more of. I love you, Mom.” She jerked her head up to make sure Calvin wasn’t there.  “And what do you say we go out and splurge a little tonight and go to a decent restaurant. You ask Calvin what place is good and not too expensive.”

Brinn ran off and up to their rooms.

The weekend flew past.  Gus spent it with the family.  Molly came out with the kids and Brian, along with Hannah, Marcus, and Dan came over for an impromptu belated birthday party for Gus on Sunday.  The mood was definitely more subdued than when Justin and Brinn were here.  

“Where’s Danny,” Molly asked Marcus as she held Hannah.

“Danny is in love.  My guess is he is in bed this afternoon.  I am glad he is so happy but I miss him. He loves his classes and he is doing well.  And Britt is a great young man but now that Danny is officially our son, we hardly see him.”  Marcus put a hand on Molly’s shoulder and softly asked, “Any word from Tyler.”

“Well, I talk to him everyday but he is still in Mexico.  They can’t seem to figure out what names they are using now. That niece of mine is just too smart and I know Tina has contacts too. It wouldn’t surprise me if she made connections or had connections for phony paperwork. But they could have gone anywhere in the world.  Tyler is trying to get permission to see internet records for the place they lived and he is tracking down a man Tina was involved with.”

Gus was on the floor with the kids and then in the kitchen with Shelby, helping get pizza ready for everyone.  Dan saw Brian watching Gus and went over and draped an arm around Brian’s shoulders, “Gus isn’t going anywhere, Brian.  That young man is such a great family man.” Brian put an arm around Dan’s waist and led him to the door. It was getting cooler out but they didn’t need jackets this time of day.  “Brian, what is it?”

“Dan, Gus is involved with a married man.  Both the wives know about it but I am still worried about him, about them. I mean Shelby and the grandkids...I don’t want anyone to get hurt.  I couldn’t take that right now. I just can’t deal with anything more.”

Dan’s arms went around Brian and held him close. “Gus will be fine. A married man  ….like someone he is involved with regularly?”

“I always knew he would need a man.  I mean I love Shelby now and Taylor and Gage, well you know how I feel about them. I just can’t take another…” Dan heard the door open and glanced up to see Shelby. Dan stepped back and entered the house without a word as Brian looked up and saw his daughter in law standing there with the look of a warrior on her face.

“Shelby, I’m sorry.  I don’t want to ruin the party.  I just can’t …”

“Brian, I know the stress this family is under.  And I know you had hestations against me marrying Gus for just this reason.”

“Shelby, I’m sorry I was right. I see how much you and Gus love each other but I was worried something like this….”

“Dad,” she looked up into his hazel eyes, so much like Gus’.  “I want my husband happy and now at least I know who he is with and where he will be, although he hasn’t told me about the little stone house he has always liked.  I know he has been working on it for the last week so I am guessing that will be their meeting place but he isn’t going out in public with him and I told him I couldn’t take seeing them in physical contact.”

“Shelby, you are a strong woman and Gus was  right in marrying you. I mean, those kids you two created couldn’t be more perfect and I know it is none of my business but can I ask you one small thing?”

“Sure.”

“Let Gus have the night.  I don’t mean he stays over every Monday night but Gus will need time to compartmentalize.  And if that means he sleeps alone over there and gets his head on straight and then comes home and helps get the kids ready for preschool and then goes to work.  He will be yours forever but let him…. I’m sorry, It is none of my business.”

Shelby laid her head on Brian’s chest as his arms went around her.  “Are you sure he will be mine forever? I’m scared, Brian.”

“Give him a little space and he will always be yours.”  They stood there for another moment. “We better get back in there and celebrate Gus’ 26th birthday.”  Brian kissed her cheek, “He is a very lucky man.”

Monday morning as Gus and Shelby were putting jackets on the kids so he could drop them off at preschool, Gus noticed his duffle sitting by the door.

“Um, Shel, did I miss something?  You aren’t kicking me out are you?”

“No, that bag has your travel grooming kit in it along with just a couple pairs of your sweats and Ts.  Your dad …. Well, if you want to spend the night there, please just let me know you aren’t coming home. Just make sure you come back in the morning so you can take the kids to school.

“Oh Shelly,”  he wasn’t sure what to say or how to say it.  He whispered, “Thank you. I love you so much.”

Gus was at Stone House early.  The weather had turned rainy and the project he was heading to stopped for the day so he was there by 3:00.  Damn he was nervous. He looked around the living room. There was a big overstuffed sofa with a large ottoman in front of it.  He had taken his pop’s advice and had gotten a thick, high pile rug in front of the fireplace and above the fireplace was a TV that doubled as artwork.  He moved up the steps to the loft bedroom. He had put in a king size bed with a wrought iron bed frame and a couple small chest of drawers and night stands.  He walked into the bath and looked at the biggest change to the house. He had taken out a small storage room and expanded the bathroom. He had added a large walk in shower and big soaker tub.  He knew it was probably extravagant but he knew if his dad ever sold the place as someone’s mountain getaway it would pay off. He put in quality appliances too and since he had gotten off early he had texted Seth to pick up dessert only.  

Gus had picked up some chicken breast and asparagus along with potatoes and fresh rolls.  He stuffed the chicken breast with butter and cheese along with some herbs and when he got a text from Seth that he would be there in half an hour he put the chicken and potatoes in the oven.  In fifteen minutes he would throw in the asparagus. He made a little butter sauce to pour over the vegetables before they ate and then he went upstairs to freshen up and inserted a vibrator. He also texted Shelby and said he was spending the night here.  He wasn’t sure why but he thought a night alone sounded good. As he walked down the stone staircase the bell rang. Gus walked to the door and opened it. Seth was looking at the small porch and the swing hanging from the beams. When the door opened, 

“G, this place is great.”

Gus stepped out of the way and Seth walked in. “Welcome to Stone House.  My dad gave me the run of the place and a blank check to make it ours.”

“Ours like yours and his or ours like yours and mine?”  Seth watched Gus’ reaction and then set the dessert he brought down on the counter and pulled Gus into his arms.

“This is for you and me with his blessing.”  Seth crushed his mouth. When they stepped apart, Seth spoke first, “This place is great, G, and it smells, god I don’t know what to eat first, you or dinner.”

“Does it help if I tell you dinner will be about 15 mintues?”  

“Oh, does it help…” he took Gus’ hand and pushed him onto the sofa and undid Gus’ zipper. Within seconds, Seth feasted on  Gus’ now erect cock. To add to his stress, he turned the vibrator to a higher setting and soon Gus was fighting to stay in control but when Seth began to massage his balls he lost all his senses. He exploded and Seth swallowed like it was a before dinner drink.  Gus dropped his head back onto the sofa and Seth sat next to him, interlacing his fingers with him. “That rug is amazing. My knees didn’t even notice.”

“You’ll have to thank my dad for that.  On second thought, don’t. That could be a little awkward.”  The timer on the oven beeped and Gus kissed Seth and stood up.  Soon they were sitting by the counter on stools eating the meal Gus had put together.  They talked about their work day and about music.    

Gus turned and looked at Seth when he had finished eating.  “Seth, the guitar pick, I really can’t keep it. It cost a fortune and it is so rare.”

“G, it didn’t cost me anything.  I have had it since I was a boy and if I didn’t want you to have it, I wouldn’t have given it to you.”

“But Seth,  if you have had it since you were a boy….” Gus ran his hand along Seth’s  jawline, “Tell me the story, please.”

“Later, right now I want to go upstairs and see what you put together up there.”

Gus led Seth up the steps and into the room.  There were some candles already burning there and the bedding was already turned down showing the silky sheets.  Without a word they undressed each other and soon the vibrator was discarded and replaced with Seth’s erection. A half hour later they lay on the bed and Gus put his head on Seth’s chest.  “Seth, please tell me about the guitar pick now.”

“Well, my grandpa was a wanna be musician like I am.”

“Seth, you are an amazing musician.”

“Well, he was good, too.  He got a job as a roadie with Hendrix.  One night they got caught in a a blizzard and they had to spend the night in a broken down hotel and they all ended up hanging out in the lobby and started jamming.  Well, grandpa ended up playing with him the whole night. Jimi was impressed with his skill and at the end of the night he initialled the pick and gave it to my grandfather.  Well, a couple years later he left the tour to get married and raise a family. Later, he got the provenance on the pick verified with signed statements saying they were their when it happened. Well, my grandfather became a studio musician and my dad was their only child and when my dad was a kid he heard stories about his dad’s time with Hendrix but he didn’t know anything about the pick.  It was in a safety deposit box.” He stopped talking and Gus stretched up and kissed him as his hand moved down Seth’s stomach and then began to play in his pubic hair.

“Well, my dad died when I was ten years old and my  mom remarried and took me away from my dad’s family.  Not so much on purpose as it just happened. Anyway, when I was in my late teens, my grandparents were killed in a car crash and one day a package was delivered with my name on it.  It was the pick with a letter from my grandfather and the paperwork that went with it. It is the part of me that came from my father.”

“Seth, I can’t  take it. It is your heritage.”

“Gus, I don’t have a family except Isabella and now you.  You have children. You will make sure my story is continued.”

“But Seth, the value is beyond…”

“Gus, I know you wouldn’t sell it for the money.  You don’t need it. I am hoping you will treasure it as much as I treasure you.  I love you, Gus, and I don’t care if you don’t feel the same. I have never felt like this about anyone except Isabella  and I can honestly say, I love you.”

Very softly Gus spoke as he stroked Seth’s now rising cock.  “I think I love you, too.”  

Seth rolled so Gus was under him and  he touched and tasted every inch of his new love.  The only thing he avoided completely was his pelvis area.  Gus was mad with need by the time Seth was licking the small toe on Gus’ left foot.  As Seth drug his teeth over the skin gently Gus nearly lost total control of his body.  When Seth turned Gus on his side and began to trail his tongue up Gus’ leg, Gus was whimpering like a small puppy and as Seth finally cradled Gus’ dick and his tongue easily inserted the previously used bud, Gus had an orgasm beyond anything he had ever experienced before. He was shaking badly as his cock still spasmed and Seth wrapped his long strong arms around him and together they dozed off.’’

Gus was the first to stir and as he gently kissed Seth his arms came around him.  Seth glanced at the clock. “Shit, you need to get home.”

“No, that’s something else Pops did for us.  Shelby knows I am spending the night here. She doesn’t want to know if you spend the night with me but Pops just got her to understand I just need a buffer before going home to her.”

“So does that mean we have time to eat the dessert I brought before I go home?”

Gus stood up and stretched a hand out to Seth and they walked, naked, down the steps to the kitchen.  “Another bonus to this place,” Seth said as he ate the pastry he had brought, “no neighbors.” He looked out the window as he set his plate in the sink.

Gus’ arms went around Seth’s waist and Gus began to slide his cock between Seth’s thighs and moments later the two again were on the verge of cumming but Seth stopped Gus and turned to face him.  He pulled Gus tightly against him. “I don’t want to cum. I want to feel uncomfortable. I want to ache for you. I, damn, I love you.”

“Seth, will you go and make love….”

“Don’t go there, Gus.  Neither of us can ever go there.  We both have wives we love and that is as far as it will ever go,”  Seth put a hand on either side of Gus’ face and barely brushed his lips on Gus’. “I will see you next week and I will bring dinner.” Gus couldn’t seem to say anything when  Seth once more ran his hand over Gus’ ass and slid his finger in, causing Gus to gasp with need and then Seth was gone.

Gus leaned against the door and listened to Seth drive away.  Once it was silent outside he turned off the light and walked up the stairs, blew out the candles, and turned on the shower before stepping into the streaming water.  As the water pounded down his back, Gus put his hand on the wall and pressed his forehead against it. What was he doing? Was he being fair to Shelly. Could he really love his wife and kids and be in love with this amazing man?  He wasn’t sure how long he had stood there when he finally stood up straight. He turned off the water and got out and after drying off he texted Shelby.  

‘Good night, Shelly. I love you, darling.’  With that Gus plugged his phone in and got into bed.  He buried his nose into the pillow Seth had used and he could smell the essence of him there.  He realized how lucky he was. Not only had he found his female soulmate but his male soulmate, too.

One week moved to two.  John and Tyler had come back home with no further leads. Dan had another agent down there for now while they were searching airport cameras all over the world from the day they know Tina and Brinn had flown.  Both humans and computers were scanning as fast as they could.

Brenda had been wondering what to do with her free time now that Paul was in school full time and Jenna was going to preschool so now she was spending part of her day at the Reeves-Reed household.  This freed Marcus up to spend time with Justin. Justin seemed more relaxed but his depression seemed to be unreachable. Brian had been able to visit a couple times but Justin’s reaction was almost undetectable.  He had kissed him when he arrived and when he had left but the conversation sounded like one he would have with a casual acquaintance rather than the man he had shared a bed with for more than 25 years. Brian had a hard time going to see him because of that.

Tina had gotten the advertising job at Calvin’s old company.  Her employer was impressed with her ideas so far. What he didn’t realize was that most of the work was being done by her daughter in the evening.  Tina was a good graphic artist but ideas were not her strong suit. Brinn would give her suggestions and then Tina would put them together.  

Brinn had expected Tina to start catching on to what they were looking for but she couldn’t seem to focus long enough to finish her idea.  Brinn as working all day in a lab and most of the night with her mom. As the 18 year old Brenna Sullivan she was being watched closely as they noticed how intelligent she was. As Tia Brinn Taylor-Kinney who was not yet 15, she was starting to crumble a bit.  She needed her daddies. She needed the rest of her family but Tina didn’t notice and she was getting closer to Calvin every day. Brinn liked Calvin. He seemed like a good man and he seemed to be good for Tina. or Jan as he called her. She had noticed when they sat talking they no longer sat on separate sides of the porch but instead they shared the swing.  Brinn or Brenna, would crawl into bed exhausted from a 10 work day and a couple hours helping her mom and cry herself to sleep while she faintly could hear the ‘grownups’ talking and laughing.

When all this had started, Brinn figured she would be talking to her dads by now.  She realized she wasn’t sure how she thought they would have contacted her. Maybe she thought Uncle Dan would have figured it out through her contacts with Danny and Gus.  She had been sure her daddy would have been here.

“Mr. Reed, can you come over here?”  Dan walked to the agent’s desk and looked over his shoulder.

“What is it?”

“Does this redhead look like Brinn?”

Dan looked closer, “Holy SHIT! You found her!  What airport was this at?”

“It’s New Orleans.  It’s been over two weeks but they had stayed in Mexico longer.  Hopefully, she is still there.” 

Dan was already on his phone calling John to get down here and he told Tyler to start packing for New Orleans.  Next Dan called Brian.

“Brian, I have some news.”

“You mean you found her?”  Brian was already on his way to his SUV and started driving to Dan’s.

“She and Tina, flew from Mexico there.”

“Hey Dan, I think I figured out their aliases,” the agent said.

“Brian, get over here.”

“I’m almost there,”  

Moments later Brian was looking at pictures of Brinn and Tina in the New Orleans airport.  Brinn looks so grown up. His emotions were on the surface and Dan put an arm around him. Tyler and John will be down there by daylight.  We have their names. By morning if they have rented anything or are working somewhere, I will know it.”

“Dan, I need her home.  Sunshine needs her home.”

“And you need Sunshine home.” Dan said into Brian’s ear.  “By Thanksgiving, I hope they will both be home.”

Gus came running into the house, “Shel!  Shelby?”

“Hey, you’re home early, Gussy.  The kids aren’t even home from preschool yet.”

“Well, then,” Gus pulled her close and as he kissed her, he backed her up until she was pinned against the counter. “How long until the kids get home?”

“Maybe half and hour or forty-five minutes.”

“Well, what do you say you and I lose the clothes and … Gus picked her up and carried her to the sofa. He set her on her feet and pulled off her shirt, he lowered his mouth and took her breast in his mouth and as he licked and teased her nipples he gently set her down. They both undressed and then Gus sat down and pulled her onto his lap.  She straddled him so he could continue to nibble and tease. As pressure was growing deep inside her she lowered herself onto his erection and began to move up and down as quickly as she could. Gus held her hips and slowed her down.

“Shelly, I want to enjoy every stroke of that warm wet tunnel of yours.”

Shelby wrapped her arms around his neck as he controlled her movements. He brought her closer and closer to an earth shattering orgasm. “God, GUS!” She screamed as she arched her back.  Gus filled her as he held her against him. He swore they were getting closer the more time he spent with Seth. He knew that didn’t make sense but he felt it was true. He knew Shelby still wasn’t comfortable with the arrangement but on afternoons like this she had to realize how much he still loved her.

“Gussy,” Shelby said as they laid together after getting dressed.  “Why are you home so early?”

“You were so distracting I forgot to tell you, they think they found Brinn! Well, at least they know where she is.”

Shelby hit him, “And you didn’t tell me?”

“I’m sorry but we so rarely get to make love on the sofa with our two munchkins running around. And speaking of them, did you say Pops was picking them up?”

“Yes, he was…..but does he know about Brinn?  Maybe he forgot to pick them up!”

Gus picked up his phone and called Brian, “Pops, I know the afternoon changed your plans.  Are you still getting the kids or should we….”

“I hope you don’t mind, when Dan talked to Tyler he was with Molly and in the conversation, Isabella volunteered to bring them to your place.  She should be there any minute. Gus, that’s not a problem is it?”

“No, not at all, Pops.  Thanks. Please let me know, no matter what time it is when they get more news.”

“I will, Gus.  Love you, son.”

“I love you, too, Pops.”  Gus set the phone down. “I’m sure you heard.  Have you talked to Isabella lately?” He asked a bit hesitantly.

“No, but it isn’t because we were avoiding each other.  I have been so busy with Janna’s Hope now that the kids are in preschool that I haven’t been in town to see her. And speaking of Bella,”  There was a vehicle outside the house and both Shelby and Gus stepped outside to get their kids. Bella and Shelby hugged each other while Gus started to undo car seats.  

“Thanks so much for picking up the kids for us.” Shelby said as Gage grabbed his mom’s leg and she swiped him up and snuggled his neck until he giggled.  “Gage, you look more like your daddy every day.”

“I’m not daddy,” he said through the giggles of his mom kissing him.

“What do you say to beautiful Bella for picking you up for daddy and me?”

“Tank you, Bell.” Gage leaned toward Bella and kissed her cheek.

“Oh, he is such a charmer.  He is like his dad,” Bella smiled at him and then over Shelby’s shoulder at Gus.

“Come on, kids, let’s get you a snack to tide you over until dinner since Daddy distracted me so dinner will be later. Shelby kissed Gus’ cheek as she took Taylor’s hand and Gus’ family went in the house.

Bella looked at Gus, “How is she dealing with the new situation?”

‘I think she is adjusting. It was kind of you to bring my kids home.”

“I kind of think of them as part of my extended family now.  Gus, my husband has never been so happy and if you treat your wife like he treats me ,she is one happy woman.  From the flush on her cheeks, I am guessing she had a lot to be thankful for just a short time ago.”

“I love her so much.  We rarely have time without the kids anymore.  I mean we would never change that but….”

“That is one of the reasons Seth and I never had kids.  I am a free spirit and if I want sex on the kitchen counter all the better!”    She leaned over and softly said, “I’ll give Seth a kiss for you.” She felt a shiver run through him.  “Ya, he does that to me, too.” She laughed seductively. She climbed into the car and opened the window, “Do you have a preference where I kiss him.”  She chuckled as she rolled the window up and drove away.

Gus came into the house and took charge of the kids so Shelby could work on dinner.  Shelby wanted to ask him what Bella had said but deep in her heart she knew she may not be able to take it.  She looked over at her kids and their dad and knew this was her new normal and she could live with that.

Marcus went to see Justin.  He had talked to the doctors and they suggested he tell Justin they were getting close.  John and Tyler were in the Big Easy and they already had a couple leads. Marcus walked into Justin’s room and took his hand. “It’s a nice day outside, Justin.  Let’s put on a jacket and go for a walk in the garden.”

“That sounds nice, Marcus.  Thank you.”

The two men walked out arm and arm as the strolled the sidewalk.  “Marcus, how is Brian?” Justin seemed quite lucid today.

“Brian misses you.  He comes to visit doesn’t he?”

“Yes, he comes every day but it is painful for him here.  I know I am not the person he loves anymore.”

“Oh, Justin, he still loves you so much.” Marcus led him to a bench to sit down.

“I know,” he said flatly, “And I love him but right now, I just can’t express that.  I hope he moves on to someone else.”

“He will never move on.  You are getting better. I can see it everyday.”

“I just can’t face life, Marcus.  I wish I could but where is my girl?  I just need Brinny.” Justin started getting worked up.  His body shook.

Marcus wrapped his arms around Justin and bringing his mouth to his ear, Marcus said, “They have a lead.  It shouldn’t be long now.”

Justin pulled away and looked at him, “Marcus, don’t joke.  Don’t make fun of me! I am not that feeble minded that I need you to lie to me.” A flash of old Justin was coming through.

“No, Justin, I am not doing that.  They think Brinn is in New Orleans.  Tyler and John are there now. They really think they will have her in the next few days.”

Tears sprang to his eyes, “Marcus, my baby is coming home?”

“I think so.  I think by Thanksgiving all of you will be back home.  Sweetheart,” Marcus put his hands on Justin’s cheeks. “you need to fight.  We need you better and home. I want to laugh with you over a bottle of wine.  I want to see that beautiful body wrapped around your husband. You are perfect together.”

“Oh, Marcus, I do want to be able to go home and I want to share Brian’s bed again.  I want to feel him…. But I just can’t. My body wants him but my mind won’t let me.” Marcus held him tightly.  “Please tell him to come visit. I want to try to…. He might be able to make me better.”

“Justin you will get better and I will tell Brian to come over.”

As soon as Marcus called Brian he left his downtown office and arrived at the hospital in time to talk to Marcus before he left.  “Marcus, what’s going on. Did you tell him?”

“I did and today was a very good day from the start.  He really wants you. I mean, I think his body is craving you.  Kiss him. I mean kiss him like I have seen you kiss him so many times.  Let him know you still want him. How long has it been since you did that?”

“I haven’t since he got here.  The doctors didn’t think it was a good idea.”

“Who knows him better, you or the doctors? Touch him let him know you still love him. We need to get him home.”

“I’m scared, but you’re right.  He is mine and I am going to start really fighting for him, for me and for Brinn!  And I can’t wait to get that bitch locked up in prison…”

“Brian, don’t bring that up.  Neither of you need that right now.”

“I won’t.  I just want my family back.” Brian clung to Marcus for a minute.  “Thank you for everything you have done, Marcus. I don’t know what I would have done without you the last few weeks.”

“Just go talk to your husband and push him a bit.  I think he can take it now. Get his fight going.”

Brian nodded.  “I’d like to get something besides his fight going.  I miss him so much.”

Marcus kissed Brian’s cheek, “Hopefully, very soon.  When Brinn gets home….”

“I’ll talk to you later and thanks, Marcus, I don’t know what I would have done without you. There aren’t many guys who would lend a guy his husband and take care of someone else’s.”

Marcus smiled and walked away.  Brian took a deep breath and walked down the hall. He stopped at the desk and asked if the doctor was around.  Within minutes the doctor appeared. He discussed what Marcus had seen and verified that pressing Justin a little bit would be safe.

“You husband has perplexed us from day one.  It’s obvious the meds have had a calming effect on him but basically his friend just being here most days has had a calming effect.”

“Doctor, we have a lead on our daughter.  I hope she will be home by Thanksgiving and her birthday is right after that.  Do you think he will be able to come home by then?”

“You know I can’t answer that.  I would guess he will be able to go home for the day, even if he can’t stay there yet. I do have an appointment to get to.  Try what you want. You know how to read his mood.”

“Thanks, doc.”  All Brian could think about was taking Justin to bed and loving him the way he deserved to be loved.  Was Justin ready for that? Brian knew he was more than ready.

He walked to Justin’s door and knocked softly.  “Come in.” came Justin’s soft voice.

Brian walked in and found Justin standing at the window. When he turned around Brian could see he had freshened up a bit.  His hair was freshly combed and there was a scent of his favorite soap in the air. Brian had brought it in a couple weeks earlier but he had never noticed he had used it. Justin very tentatively stepped toward Brian and Brian gently pulled him into his arms, not wanting to pressure him but needing him so badly.  Brinn would be coming home soon but more importantly, Justin would be Justin again soon. Brian looked down and found Justin’s head tilted upward waiting for Brian’s mouth. Brian brought his mouth down and nearly melted from the feel of Justin’s plyable lips. Brian put his arms around him and pulled him close and he felt Justin relax against him for a moment. As Brian started to deepen the kiss, Justin started pushing him away.  Before letting him go, Brian’s hand rested on his ass and pulled him close so there was no question about his need. For just a moment Justin was malleable and wanting but then he stiffened and stepped back.

“I’m sorry, Brian.  I… “

“I don’t want you to do anything you’re not comfortable with, Sunshine.  I don’t want to push you. Marcus told you about Brinn? Tyler and John will find her.  New Orleans isn’t that big. They will track her down.”

“Brian, I just can’t …. not until she is home.” Justin reached out and took Brian’s hand. “I, I do love you.  I just can’t …”

“Will you sit on the bed with me? Let me tell you everything Dan has figured out.”  They talked about Mexico and the ploy sending them to Venezuela. Brian snuck a kiss here and there not expecting anything more but he wanted to feel the connection.  Justin asked questions and was more animated than Brian had seen him since he entered treatment. Eventually a nurse came in and stated it was time for dinner. Brian walked to the door and was so happy to have Justin walk up to him and kissed him.

“I love you, Brian.”

“Oh, Sunshine, I love you more than life.”  They kissed once more, “I’ll be back tomorrow.  Hopefully, I will have news.”  

As Brian left the hospital he felt lighter than he had in weeks.  Soon his family would be back together and then things would begin to find a new normal.