Chapter 8

“Holy shit,” Mel said under her breath as the front door splintered into a million pieces.

“I really thought they would just pick him up on the street or something,” Brian said, as they watched the team storm the duplex.  After all the times he had thought about this, it was almost disappointing.  Craig looked shocked as they threw him to the floor and then cuffed his hands behind his back. 

“What did I do?” they heard him say.

The officer wearing the camera’s voice came over the computer, “Well, faking a death for starters but the one you are going to have the hardest time denying is kidnapping, you fucker.”

As they led him out of the house, they got another glimpse of his face. Mel said, “He doesn’t look so threatening now, does he? Remember how he used to bully Justin, threaten him…”

“How often he made Sunshine cry….” Brian’s voice faded out. “I thought this was going to be so much...fun.  Now I just think he looks like a lonely loser who, face it, has lost everything that’s important in life, including a baby he doesn’t even know about.”

“What?” Mel looked at Brian.

“Shit, forget you heard that.”

“Like hell I will!” Mel snapped. “Are you saying that Dani’s baby…. When did you find this out?”

“Just a few hours ago.  Mel, I need to talk to someone and you’re my lawyer so you can’t say anything.” Mel nodded.  “Dani is giving up the baby and Justin wants us to take him.”

“Him? It’s a boy?”

“Yes, she let that slip today.  Justin is still recovering.  He can’t take care of a baby.”

“Well, it is still a couple months, right?  It’s not like you don’t have the room and you can afford a nanny..” Mel hesitated, “I can’t believe I’m saying this but, you’re a good father.  Justin is amazing with kids. That child could have a lot worse home.”

“Mel, is that a compliment?” Brian smiled at her.  “I just can’t get over the fact that it is Craig’s child but then so is Justin and I love him more than life.”

“Justin shouldn’t have any trouble getting custody since Dani plans on giving the baby up.  He is a blood relative.”

“Daddy, Mama, I hungry.” Gus was knocking on the door with some help from someone. Brian unlocked the door and saw his son in the arms of his love.  “Daddy,” Gus squealed as he threw himself into Brian’s arms from Justin’s. Brian held Gus in one arm and slipped his other around Justin’s waist.  He kissed Gus and then Justin.  Maybe he would have to rethink this.  Mel was right.  He could hire a nanny or housekeeper or both.  If  only he knew Justin…. “Daddy, fly!” As they stepped back into the main room, Brian threw Gus in the air as the boy giggled.

“Brian, stop that.  If he throws up his dinner it is your fault,” Lindsay said as she took Gus from Brian’s arms. 

Justin pulled Brian into the laundry room, “Want a quickie right now?” Brian said as he ran his hand over Justin’s crotch.

“Stop it!  Is it over?” Brian saw the serious look on Justin’s face.  

“I’m sorry, Sunshine,” he pulled him into his arms.  “Of course you want to know.  He is in custody. Tomorrow morning Mel will call us as soon as she has the arraignment time.  She expects it to be tomorrow afternoon unless it ends up being Tuesday morning.”

“Brian,” Justin laid his head down on his chest, “what happened? Did he fight or try to run?” He paused a moment, “Did he get hurt?”

“The worst he got was a bruise or two.” He started to talk but stopped.

“What were you going to say?” Justin asked looking up into Brian’s eyes.

“He looked like a scared old man.” Brian lowered his head and met Justin’s lips. “Justin, he was not hurt and he deserves anything they give him. We better go out before Gus comes looking for us.” Brian kissed him once more and swatted his butt. “Later I am going to bite into that amazing ass….” 

“Promises, promises….” Justin teased as they went to join everyone else.

Everyone ate subs and cookies and before they realized it Gus was falling asleep.  He climbed on Justin’s lap and fell asleep. “I wish he could stay.  Maybe some night soon he can spend the night or two?”

Melanie leaned over and kissed Lindsay, “We were talking about taking a weekend away.”

“Justin, can I come visit when Gus comes?” Molly asked.  “I could help babysit.  I know we are going home now but…”

“Molly, you are welcome to visit,” Brian hugged her tightly.  “I am going to miss you and your mom knows you are both welcome. We have plenty of room.”

As Lindsay tried to take Gus, he tightened his little arms around his neck. “Come on, Gussy.  It is time to go home.  You can come play with daddy and Justin soon.”  He was too tired to fight and let Lindz take him. 

Brian kissed his son and said goodbye to his mothers.  “Mel, call us as soon as you know anything.”

“I will.  I am guessing I’ll know something around 10:00.”

“Thanks, Mel,” Justin said as she shut her door and they drove away.

Molly slipped away to her room and Jenn poured a glass of wine and sat at the counter, taking a sip.  I know I should go up and see if she’s alright but I need a little courage to do that. What happened, Brian.  What can I tell her?”

“He was arrested and will be arraigned tomorrow.  They will decide if he will stay in jail or be able to go home.  If he goes home he will probably be on house arrest,” Brian commented.  “Oh, and you can tell her that Mel will set up a visit with him if she still wants to talk to him and she will line up a chaperone for her.  She figured someone from her office or the judge’s would be in  attendance.”

“Thanks, Brian.  You have taken such good care of us.  We will get out of your hair tomorrow or the next day.  I need to get back to work and Molly needs a little normalcy before school starts so she will start cheer camp later this week.”

“That will be good for her, Mom. I know it is early but I am really tired.  I think I might put on my trunks and get in the hot tub.”

“I’m going upstairs if you don’t want to put on the suit.”  Jenn picked up the wine glass in one hand and the bottle in the other and headed up the staircase.

“Who am I to disagree with with your mom?”  Brian pulled Justin’s shirt off over his head before kissing him deeply.

“Why don’t you grab our robes and I’ll grab the bourbon and glasses?”

“Bourbon? Are you sure you….”

“Don’t question me tonight, my love.” Justin kissed him once more and then went to the liquor cabinet.

Five minutes later they sank into the bubbling water and Justin instantly poured each of them two fingers of golden liquid.  He handed one to Brian and then rested against him. His long, lean arms wrapped around him and he tried to relax.

“Want to talk about it?”

“What did you see on the camera? Tell me what happened.”

“It really happened very quickly.  I expected they would just knock and tell him to come out but they shattered the front door with one of those rams.  He was sitting by the kitchen bar when they rushed in.  He was thrown to the ground and cuffed.  Then it was over.”

“Brian, could you tell what he was feeling? I mean, was he angry?  Was he calm? Did he fight?”

“Justin, don’t torture yourself. He is fine.”

“What did he look like?” Brian said with an edge to his voice.

“Sunshine, he looked like a scared, old man.”

“He looked old?”

“I think he aged 10 years in the five minutes they were in the house with him.  Mel told me they would do a full search of his house to see if they can find any evidence for our case.  They are probably still there.”

Justin downed the liquid in his glass and then filled it again.  He started to bring it to his lips and Brian gently took it out of his hand and set it down along with his glass.  “Come here, Sunshine.” 

“Brian, I don’t want to….” 

“Shhhh,” he pulled him into his arms and let his lips roam over his face. Justin didn’t have much fight left in him and he sank against Brian and let him do what he wanted.  Brian wasn’t demanding, but soothing, more like a mother and her upset child than a lover. He ran a hand up and down one of Justin’s arms  as he still dropped  kisses on his cheek or temple. After a few minutes Justin moved so he was straddling Brian’s lap. 

“I love you, Brian Kinney.  I know you aren’t much for marriage and commitment but do you think sometime, maybe we could….”

“Oh, Sunshine, don’t you realize? I love you so much. I would marry you tomorrow!  I just wanted this trial and your therapy to be done before we talked about it and you are so young. I don’t want you to question your choice later.”

“Brian, I could never love anyone else,” he pressed his chest against Brian’s and his lips caressed Brian’s collar bone. When he got near the center he continued moving upward dragging his tongue across the hollow of his Brian’s neck and then along his jawline.  When he got near his ear, Justin softly said, “I think you mentioned something about eating my ass?”

Brian growled low in his throat, “I think I said bite your ass but either option sounds like the perfect way to spend the next couple hours but I think I am going to work my way down.” The heat between them wasn’t only from the temperature of the water. They were heating up from the inside.  

They clung to each other.  Justin mumbled as his lips tried to be everywhere at once, “I can’t get close enough.  I need to be closer. Please Bri, I need you inside of me.  I need to feel you.”

“Let’s go inside. I could think of no place I’d rather be than buried deep inside that ass but I think in our bed we will be much more comfortable.” Brian’s mouth crushed Justin’s as his need pressed against Justin’s thigh.  

“Yes, god, yes!” Justin wrapped his arms even tighter around his neck as Brian stood up and as Justin wrapped his legs around Brian, Brian carried him out of the hot tub.  He dropped his feet to the concrete as they kissed again.  Justin trembled, partly because of his need for Brian but partly because of the breeze that was picking up. “Let’s get inside.  I think a storm is coming up.” Justin slipped on the robe Brian had brought out for him as Brian put on his own.

“You’re right.  The air does feel weird.  I think we could have a real storm tonight.”

“It has been that kind of day, hasn’t it.” Justin needed to touch him.  He needed to stay in contact tonight.  He couldn’t do life alone right now.

“Oh, we left the booze outside.  I’ll be right back.” 

“Brian,” Justin clung to his arm, “don’t go!”

“Sunshine, it will only be a minute.” Brian walked out the door and as he walked Justin began to shake.  By the time Brian returned, Justin was trembling so badly he had to hold onto the back of a chair.  Brian rushed over and pulled him close. “Oh darling, I am so sorry.  I should have known.” He pulled him close, “I promise I will not leave your side.  I promise.”  Together they crossed the great room and walked to the bedroom.

Once in the bedroom, Brian slowly removed Justin’s robe and slid his hands down Justin’s arms and then he moved his hands to Justin’s back.  The lower they moved the closer Justin moved against Brian.  Brian’s mouth left a seering trail on Justin’s skin.  Justin was sure he would burst into flames from the inside at any minute.  Brian moved them closer to the bed and then had him lay down on his stomach.  Brian pulled out some oil and started at his neck and shoulders. His fingers worked on his neck for a few minutes.  Brian knew where the knots usually were and he worked on those and then worked his way down.  When he got down to the beautiful round globes he did just as he promised.  He licked and nipped, sometimes hard enough for Justin to yip and then his mouth began to focus on the little bud between his cheeks.

“Turn over, Sunshine.  I want to see your gorgeous face.” Brian propped Justin’s ankles on his shoulders and then entered him.  As he sank all the way in he began to move in and out, faster and faster until they both climaxed.  He collapsed onto the bed next to Justin and pulled him back into his arms.  “Sunshine, I want to marry you soon.  I want you to know how much I love you and I want us to spend our lives together. I want to wake up with you every morning for the rest of our lives.  Well, I am afraid at some point we may have to be separate for a night or two but we will always come back and be together here in our home.”

“It can’t happen soon enough for me.” Justin rolled to his side and with his head propped on one hand he ran the other one across Brian’s forehead pushing his hair back.  “Wouldn’t it be ironic if the judge would marry us before Dad gets sentenced?”

“I don’t think that would ever be possible but maybe  we could…. Sunshine, you trust me, right?”

“Of course I do!” he lowered his head and kissed him lightly.

“Well, just believe me when I say it won’t be long.”

“Ok, Bri.  I believe you.”

Brian saw the tiredness engulf him.  Between the bourbon and the hot tub, not to mention the stress, he was exhausted.  “Shut your eyes, Sunshine.  Sleep so you’re ready for another day.”

Within minutes Justin was snoring lightly.  Brian couldn’t believe how much he loved that sounds. Brian had a plan he hoped he could pull together.  He fell asleep planning.

Justin and Brian woke up and got moving the next morning.  After coffee and a bite to eat they went their own ways. Brian had a conference call and Justin was meeting Dani in the pool house.  He really had really done well since Dani had been there.  He didn’t need the intense therapy anymore. Three sessions a week would do fine leaving plenty of time for Justin to do his art which was great therapy itself.  Jusin arrived before she did which was unusual and when she hadn’t arrived ten minutes later he decided he would go to her house and check on her.  He looked around the property as he strolled along.  He could tell they might need to hire a different gardener.  He wondered if they could really afford all this or if Brian was just doing it for him?  Maybe he would talk to Lindsay and see if she knew some place he could try to sell some of his work or maybe actually have a show himself. 

As he came to the guest house he could see Dani through the window.  She was sitting by the table slumped over.  Justin rushed to the door and tried the knob.  It was locked so he started knocking.  She lifted her head and stood slowly before walking to the door. Once she had unlocked it, Justin rushed in and took her in his arms.  “Dani, what’s the matter? Is there something wrong? Is it the baby? Are you in pain?”

Dani hiccuped and tried to take a calming breath but she seemed to start crying harder.  “I...I’m late…..I am so sorry….”

“Sweetie, calm down.  Being late is no big deal.  You could have told me to come here. Let me make you some tea.  I know you like tea in the morning.  Would you like that?” She nodded and he turned on her water  kettle.  Soon he had poured the boiling water into her cup and brought it over to her. He pulled a chair a little closer and put his arm around her shoulders, pulling her a little closer.  “Now, what has gotten you so upset.”

“Last night….” hiccup, “Craig called me from jail,” she sighed and took a sip of her tea. “He wants me to support him at the trial. Obviously, I won’t and I told him so.  He wanted to fly into a rage but since he was in jail he kept his temper. But then I started thinking about going to court and I know I will be called. Mel told me I would but I don’t want to.  I don’t want him to know I am pregnant.  He will know.  I just know he will use it against me somehow. And he will be so mad!”

“Dani, we will not let him bully you.  You’ll be moving up to the house anytime you want, actually.  Mom and Molly are leaving today.” 

“I would like that. I think hormones made it worse and then I couldn’t sleep and….”

Justin pulled her close, “Once you are in the house you can text us if you can’t sleep. I will come rub your back or talk to my little brother and…”

“Justin, please don’t get attached to him.  You know I will be giving him up for…”

“Dani, you haven’t told a couple yet have you?”

“No, I was just given four couples to look at. It is really hard to choose.”

‘Dani, what if I want to adopt him.  I want to raise him as a son.  Gus could be his big brother.  You don’t have to say anything right now. Just think about it.”

“Justin, you’re serious? Is Brian in agreement?”

“He is hesitant.  He is worried I can’t handle it physically but I told him in two months…”

“In two months, if you keep working like you do, physically you should be strong enough.”

“He’s worried, and so am I, that I will get one of my headaches and just not be able to take care of him.”

“Justin, I will need to know if you’re serious soon because I have to let the agency….”

“Dani, I want to raise my brother as my own. I want him to know that he was loved enough by his mother to want the best life for him possible and I want him to know that his brother and sister want to be part of his life.”

“Oh, Justin, you don’t know how happy that would make me.  But Brian has to be on board…”

“You leave Brian up to me.  When you talk to the adoption agency just let them know a family member is going to take the baby and ask them what we need to do for paperwork to make it legal.”

Dani hugged him tightly.  “What are we going to do about your father?”

“I can’t worry about him.  He is out of my life. He will never be in my child’s life.  This child will have love and support and I will keep him from the worst this world has to offer.” Justin kissed her cheek.  “You take the day off.  Pack up your things and Brian and I will come and move your stuff later today.  I promise to do some exercises today.  Now I think I will go back to the house and find out when we will be going to the courthouse and when Mom and Molly plan to leave.”

“Justin, please let me know what time it is and then call when it’s over.”

“I will, Dani.  Rest and relax today.  Use the pool if you like. Take care of yourself and our son.”

Justin walked back to the main house and after entering he went straight to the office to find Brian.  By now he should have heard from Mel. He walked in and went over to the desk.  He pulled Brian away from the desk and sat on his lap and kissed him.  “Have you heard from Mel?”

“I did just a few minutes ago. It is the first thing after lunch so we will leave here about 12:30.  I was thinking we could have lunch with your mom and Molly and I think they will be leaving about then, too.”

“He called Dani last night.  She was a mess this morning. He started out nice wanting her to sit on his side for support.  When she said no he started making threats. You know how he is.”

Brian kissed him again, taking some time this time.  If Justin was in his arms he wanted to kiss him. “Why do I think the two of you talked about more than that.”

“Well, after I made her a cup of tea and she calmed down a little, I told her I wanted to adopt the baby.”

“Sunshine, I thought we were going to hold off on making that kind of decision.”

“Brian, I know we are a couple and I know I should have talked to you first but, love, that little boy belongs with us, we’re family.”

“Justin, I…. We don’t have time for this right now but I am not saying yes.  You are reacting out of emotion and a situation like this is much more….”

“Brian,” Justin’s voice was sharp as he stood up, “you’re right, now isn’t the time but, be careful sweetheart, this is a make or break decision.” Justin walked to the door.  He turned around and looked at Brian once more, “Please, Brian, don’t make me choose.  I think that would kill me. I’m going to go pack up our room.”

Brian watched him go. Fuck! Why couldn’t life be simple for a while? Did they really need this on top of everything else? He wasn’t sure this was the right thing to do but he could never live without Sunshine again, so he really needed to start working on the idea he had.  He emailed Cynthia and started putting his plan into action.

At 11:30 Molly knocked on Justin’s bedroom door and then walked in. “Hey, Molly, are you and mom about ready to leave?”

“Ya, Mom thought we could have lunch together before we leave. She’s making it now.”  Molly looked at him, “You’re going to see Daddy today, aren’t you?”

“Yes, and once that is over, Mel is going to arrange a meeting for you.  Remember, you can back out anytime if you change your mind.”

“I know you don’t understand but I need to see him. I know you said he did all of that stuff, and in my heart I know that’s true but I just have to….I have to know if he loves me at all.  Did he ever love me?”

Justin put his arms around his sister, “Oh, Molly, I feel so responsible for this!  It was because of me all this started.  If I hadn’t pushed him, he and Mom might still be married and you would have grown up in ….”

“Justin,” Jenn said from the door, “your father and I were on rocky ground long before you came out.”

“Mom, I just know you have been through hell and Molly feels abandoned and….” Justin rubbed his temples.  Molly walked over and got a pill for Justin and then handed it to him along with a bottle of water.

“Justin, after Dad left I know Mom was much happier.  She smiled a lot more and that made me happy.  I wish Dad had stuck around or at least wanted visits but ….” she stopped talking.

“Let’s have lunch,” Jenn said.  “Molly, why don’t you go get Brian.”  Molly looked at her mom and kissed Justin on the cheek before she left the room.  “Sweetheart, you can’t think you are to blame for your father and me.  I have told you that before.  We would not have been together much longer.” Jenn looked at Justin.  “You look like you need a nap before…”

“No, I’ll be fine.  Mom, I didn’t want to say it in front of Molly but, I am going to adopt Dani’s baby.”

“You’re going to….. Justin you are not even 21 and you are recovering…”

“I hope Brian will agree but I told him it’s me and the baby or I can never make a commitment to him.”

“Has he asked you to marry him?”

“Mom, I hope we will get married. I can’t imagine life without him.”

“Oh, Justin, I can’t believe I am saying this as young as you are but you two belong together.” Jenn took his hand, “Let’s go eat lunch.”

Molly knocked on Brian’s office door. He had let her know from the first day he was working that this was his place for business and she had to respect that.  “Brian, may I come in?”

“Sure, Molly, what is it?”

She opened the door and walked in, “Lunch is ready and then Mom and I are going back home.”

“Ok, I’ll be there in five minutes.”

Molly hesitated, “Brian, before I go, I want to thank you for taking such good care of my brother.  I love you, almost as much as I love him.”

Brian walked over to the young girl and hugged her. “Oh, Molly I love you and your mom like you were my own family. Now, I’ll be right out.”

“Ok, Brian.  Oh, by the way, Justin has one of his headaches and I know he won’t tell you.  He has had one of his pills.”

“Thanks, Mollusk. Three minutes.”

Once Molly and Jenn had left, Brian and Justin quickly changed to get to the hearing.  “How are you, Sunshine?”

“I’m fine,” he said in a flat voice.

“You are not fine and you shouldn’t be.  Has your headache been stopped at least?”

“It’s not bad.” He pulled out his phone and texted Dani.  He said they were leaving and he would contact her as soon as soon as it was over.

“You’re lying but I know you won’t stay back. Please don’t try to hide this stuff from me.  I won’t stop you from doing what you have to do but let me know so I can help you through it.”

“Brian, just being next to me helps me.” Justin kissed him and then took his hand. “Let’s move these suitcases out of here before we leave.  I told Dani she could move in anytime if she wanted to clean it up a bit.  It was just cleaned so other than the sheets it is ready for her.

“Sounds good to me. I think we need to start looking into a housekeeper.  I know Dani will help but she will only be around a couple months.”

“What about a nanny, Brian?”

“I will not be forced to talk about this now. We need to go or we will be late.”

Brian and Justin were escorted into the courtroom and sat next to Mel.  The district attorney came in and sat opposite another table where Craig’s attorney sat. Justin recognized him as his business attorney. Mel leaned over and whispered, “I am sure he will hire another attorney as soon as this is over.”  Next Craig was escorted in.  He had a fading black eye but there were new bruises around the other eye plus the way he was walking in, it was obvious something else hurt from the way he moved.  He looked Justin directly in the eyes as he moved to his seat.  He didn’t say anything.  He just sat down.

“All rise,” the bailiff said and the whole courtroom stood as the judge walked in and sat behind the bench.  The district attorney read off a list of charges and Craig pleaded not guilty. Then the judge spoke to Craig and his attorney, “Before I decide where the defendant goes do you have anything to say?”

“Yes, Your Honor. My client has not had as much as a parking ticket in his life.  I think you will find this is a misunderstanding between family members and I would like to suggest that my client is released on his own recognisance. He is a businessman that would like to keep his store running.”

Mel leaned forward and whispered something to the district attorney.  He nodded and stood. “Excuse me, Your Honor, but that is not quite true.   Less than a month ago Craig Taylor had a restraining order placed on him for his ex-wife and daughter.  We have evidence that after it was put in place he made over 100 attempts to contact his ex-wife.”

Craig’s attorney spoke to the district attorney, “He didn’t attempt to see her in person.”

“The restraining order said NO contact but my guess is the only reason he didn’t try to see her was he had no idea where to find them.”

“My client also says he hasn’t been allowed to see his daughter for two years even though she has asked to see him.”

“Excuse me, Your Honor, may I have just a moment?” the judge nodded and the DA turned around to Mel who quickly explained the Molly situation.  The DA continued, “It appears Mr. Taylor chose not to see his daughter for the last two years and we will be working on setting up a meeting for Mr. Taylor and his daughter as soon as it can be arranged.”

“We’ll take a ten minute break.  I would like to meet with the attorneys in my office.”

Once the judge had left along with the attorneys, Brian looked over at Mel and asked, “What do you think that is about?”

“I am guessing they are trying to decide on the fairest confinement.” 

While Justin looked at Mel, he could see his father over her shoulder.  Craig was laser focused on Justin until Brian felt Just begin to tremble.

“What’s your problem, Craig, lost your control of the situation? Getting worried what might happen?”

Craig couldn’t stop himself.  He softly said, “What are you doing here, Kinney? Going to attack me again or are you too tired from fucking my son.”  The guard made him turn around just as the lawyers walked in again and everyone stood for the judge.

Once everyone was sitting again the judge let them know his decision.  “After reviewing all the details, I don’t think holding Mr. Taylor in jail is needed but he will be fitted for an ankle monitor and will be remanded to his house 24 hours a day unless he is required to be at the courthouse.  His attorney will need to notify authorities if for any reason he needs to leave his home. He will be remanded to jail until the ankle bracelet can be fitted.”

The guard put handcuffs back on him and he was led out of the courtroom. Once the judge and Craig were gone the DA turned around to meet Brian and Justin and to talk to Mel.  “That actually went just as I had hoped.  I didn’t think they would lock him up without a record but the messages to his ex-wife was just what we needed to get him house arrest and, even though he wasn’t told this yet, he will have limited phone calls.  He will be able to call his store and his lawyer.  Any other calls will have to be made in his lawyer’s presence. Oh and that includes texts.”

Justin let out a sigh as he sagged against Brian.  “I know we have lots to talk about but I need to get Justin home.” Brian looked at Justin to see if he wanted to talk but he just used him for support.  “He still gets massive headaches from his injuries but he insisted on being here.”

“What was going on when we were coming back with the judge?”

Mel spoke up, “Craig couldn’t help himself and tried to taunt Brian and Justin. Kinney, you handled yourself better than I expected since I know that old bruise on his face is from you.”

The DA looked at Brian, “I take it you went looking for him? Do I need to know about this?”

“Mel, I need to get him home.  Please answer any questions for me and if there is something you don’t know make sure he has all our contact information.” Brian kissed Mel’s cheek as he held on even tighter than earlier.

“I will, Brian.  Take care of him.” As Brian helped Justin, Mel said, “That man annoys the hell out of me but he loves Justin desperately and he is a great father to his son who happens to be my wife and my son.”

“It is obvious they care about each other.  Let’s get a cup of coffee and we can talk details.”

Justin slept all the way home and by the time they arrived at the house, Brian had called Dani. She opened the door as soon as Brian stopped the car. “Do you want help getting him upstairs?  One of the guards is nearby if you want help.”

Brian came around to Justin’s side of the car, “Justin, can you walk?”  There was no response.  Within a minute one of the guards came around the corner.  He was a massive man and easily picked Justin up he asked where to go and Dani led the way while Brian followed behind.  Dani opened the bedroom door and Justin was deposited on the bed.

“Thank you, James,” Dani said to the guard.

Brian patted the massive man on his shoulder, “James is it?”

“Yes, Mr. Kinney.  I hear it is one of my last shifts here.  I hope Mr. Taylor is alright.”

“James, can you wait downstairs for me.  I’ll be down in five or ten minutes.”

“Sure.” he smiled at Dani as he walked out.

“Dani, you seem to know him a little. I know I have seen him around the property.  I am looking to hire someone for security around here.  Do you think he would be good for the job?”

“I think you need to talk to him.  I think he would be willing to do a lot around here.  His boyfriend just moved away and I think he has a lot of time on his hands.  I am just thinking about lawn care. Maybe he would be interested in a caretaker type job.”

“Thanks, Dani, I will be right down.  I am just going to get him undressed and under the covers.” As Dani closed the door, she saw Brian, ever so gently, sit Justin up and slipped his shirt off.  “Sunshine, you need to sleep.” As he talked he unzipped Justin’s trousers and tugged them off after taking off his shoes.  “I’ll be back in a little while, Justin.  You just sleep, love.”  Brian kissed him softly and pulled a sheet over top of him before he moved out of the room. 

When Brian got downstairs, James was sitting by the counter with a glass of ice tea in front of him. “James, I hear you might be interested in a job.”

“That depends on what the job is,” he smiled at Brian.

“Well, I am looking for a caretaker for the place, a jack of all trades really.  I am no longer in need of guards like we have had but I still want some security around the place but I also just need someone who can do minor repairs.  Do you have those skills?”

“I can swing a hammer.  I did some house painting in the summers while I was in college so we always seemed to have to fix a board or two and before you ask, I love working outside and have done plenty of mowing and a little other gardening and landscaping.”

“I have one more question before I go back to check on Justin.  Would you be willing to live on the grounds?  Dani can tell you about the house.  She just vacated it.  I want security on the grounds a majority of the time.  That doesn’t mean you can’t leave.  We can discuss a fair schedule later.  You are welcome to have guests and if you give us a heads up the pool and the hot tub are available.”

“Yes, sir, of course I will have to look at a contract but from what you just said I am very interested.”

“James, I think we can work something out.  Please give Dani your information and I will have my business manager put a contract together.”

“Thanks Mr. Kinney.  You don’t know how much I appreciate this.  I think this is just what I was looking for and didn’t even know it.”

“It’s Brian and Justin, please.” Brian  walked over and got a couple bottles of water and a couple snacks he knew Justin might like.  “I will be in touch in the next couple days.”  Brian sprinted up the steps.

James looked at Dani, “Is he always that attentive? It appeared that way every time I saw them together.”

“They are definitely mates for life. They belong together.  The way I understand it, Brian was quite the playboy but once Justin was bashed he realized how much he loved him and he just knew he wouldn’t be happy playing the field.”

“He obviously doesn’t remember me and he shouldn’t.  We didn’t run in the same crowd but we ran in a parallel one.  I was at a lot of the same places he was.  He could have had any many he wanted in the place. Justin was so hot, too, but in a very different way.  They were the couple to watch. I remember Justin’s bashing and then his death.  I was shocked when I got this job and found out he was alive.”

“Well, I would love your company around the estate.  I will be here until the baby is born.”

“Then, do you and the baby have plans?”

“The baby and I have different plans.  I am not interested in being a mother yet so I am working on plans.  He will have a good home.”

“I am sure he will.  If you need anything, Dani, just give me a call. I better get back to my job.” 

Brian entered the master suite and looked around.  Justin wasn’t in bed and he was about to worry when he heard noise in the bathroom. He walked in and saw Justin standing in front of the commode. He could see he was a bit unsteady so he walked up behind him and slipped an arm around his waist. “I’ll hold it for you if you like.”

Justin relaxed against him, “I’m not sure I’m up to what that would lead to.” He turned and kissed Brian’s jaw. “How did I get up here?”

“James carried you.”

“The guard that’s been working here?”

“Ya, Dani and him must have struck up a friendship.  I like him.”

“Yes, I remember him from Babylon.  He used to be there most nights.”

“How do you remember that?”

“I loved you but I always wondered if his dick matched the rest of his size.”  He finished up and pulled up his briefs.  He turned into Brian’s arms.

“Maybe I regret what I just did.” He lead Justin back to the bed and made him lay down but this time he joined him.

“What did you just do?”

“I offered him a job as our caretaker.  He would be in charge of security for the place as well as doing minor repairs when needed and he will decide what is needed for lawn care and landscaping.  I don’t expect him to do it all but he will let me know how much help he needs.”

Justin put his head on the pillow right next to Brian’s, “You are putting a lot of trust in someone you barely know.”

“I trust the security company he works for.  They are very thorough when it comes to hiring their guards.  I know they all have college degrees connected to law enforcement somehow.  I just got a good feeling about him.”

“I’m glad.  I think I will like him around when you are at work.” Justin smiled at Brian and winked. 

“Maybe I will withdraw my….” Brian stopped talking as Justin undid his fly and slipped his hand in.  “Oh, Sunshine,  are you feeling up to this?”

“Ya, I’m not feeling very creative but I want you.”

Brian quickly slipped out of his clothes and got back in bed with Justin. Justin just offered Brian his back and Brian slipped in.  They lay still for a few moments but then they found their rhythm.  They moved slowly and deliberately climbing higher and higher and together they climaxed.  Brian held on to Justin even tighter when they were done.

Justin spoke first, “You haven’t said anything about condoms recently.”

“I actually have thought about it quite a bit. I would never do this with anyone but you and now that there is only you, I do love the feel of your flesh around me.”  Brian’s lips tracked Justin’s neck, still buried inside him.  “You were so out of it by the end  of the arraignment we didn’t talk about it but at least we know he is locked up now and when he gets out he won’t be able to leave his house. I know Mel was going to call your mom.  I hope she  feels comfortable with this.  Of course, he could be locked up for a couple days.  It can take them that long to get the ankle bracelet.”

“I honestly just want it to be done.  I want to go on with my life.  I want to see some of my friends.  Do you think any of them will contact you?  I would love to see the old gang.  Do you think we could have them over next weekend?”

“Are you sure you want them here all at once? I am thinking that might be a bit overwhelming.  I was thinking about inviting Ted and Blake over later this week.  Ted is going to put together a contract for James so maybe when he has it ready they could join us for dinner and a dip.  It won’t be long before it will start getting too chilly for the pool.”

“Maybe you’re right.  Ted and Blake would be great and then maybe on the weekend Ben and Michael or Emmett and, does Em have a love right now?”

“You know Emmett.  That might depend on the day. They’ll start calling and we will just have them over a couple at a time.”

Brian slowly started moving again and before long they had cum again.

Dani made dinner for the three of them and then she watched a movie while Justin and Brian went for a swim.  The evening air was cool but the water felt great.  They had warned Dani they would probably skinny dip at night and she said she didn’t care but if they wanted her to go to her room she would.  They weren’t shy.  

And so a new chapter in their life began.  Two days later they, as well as Jenn, were told Craig would be back at his home by the end of the day.  That was the same night Ted and Blake were going to come for dinner along with James coming around before the meal to sign his contract.  Justin, along with Dani, made dinner for all of them.  Dani used it as a therapy session as Justin used different muscles preparing the food.  

“Are you excited to see your friends?” Dani asked as she stirred some sauce on the stove.

“Yes, but for some reason I am nervous.  It doesn’t make sense because I have already seen Ted and Blake isn’t a threatening type.  I guess it is just because I have done so little socializing.  You were the first person I talked to when I came out of the coma. Maybe that is why I have always felt comfortable with you.  How is my boy doing?” Justin brushed his hand across her tummy. “Oh, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t do that without your permission.”

“Justin anytime you want to say hi to your son you are welcome.” She smiled at him.  “I think everything is under control here. I am going to lay down for half an hour and then I will be back to help finish up.”

“I think I can finish it myself if you are too tired.”

“No, I just need to get off my feet for a bit.

And before Justin knew it guests were about to arrive.  Brian finished his work and came out of the office before Ted and Blake arrived.  Once they arrive Blake and Justin hugged for quite a while. “I can’t believe you are here and you look as good as ever,” Blake said as they separate. 

“Ya, it’s odd for me too.” Justin was a bit quiet.  It was like his brain couldn’t keep up with too many things going  on at once.  They sat on the sofa while Ted sat at the table with Brian and James finishing the contract.  James was very happy with the contract details and was going to start full time next week. After the business was done, the men  enjoyed the meal Justin and Dani had made and then they ended the evening in the hot tub.  By the end of the evening, Justin felt more comfortable and as they said goodbye to Ted and Blake, he turned and kissed Brian.  Thank you for knowing what is best for me better than I do.  Two at a time was as much as I can deal with but I enjoyed that.  I want a normal life again.”

“You are doing so well, Sunshine. Let’s go to bed.”  

As they walked up the steps Justin’s phone sounded.  It was from Jenn.  It said ‘Molly meets with Craig tomorrow. I will call you in the morning.’

“Do you think she knows what to expect?” Justin asked Brian.

“I don’t know but if Jenn wants us to talk to her we will be there when she needs us.” Brian said as they ascended the steps. “But right now, I just want to lay down on that amazing bed with you in my arms and get a good night's sleep.”

“Are you sure you don’t have the energy for anything else?” Justin asked as they reached the top step and Justin ran his hand over Brian’s ass.  

“Well, maybe we should take a shower first.” Brian tugged Justin’s shirt off and soon they were both nakes under the streaming water.