Chapter 1 

“Sunshine, sweetheart, are you ready to go?” Brian walked up behind Justin and pulled close. “I know this is not easy.”

Justin turned into Brian’s arms and looked up into this caring eyes, “I know you loved her as much as  I did.  Mom lived 93 years.  She knew her time was about up and what better way to go than to just sleep away.  Of course the whole family will miss her but she taught us to be strong.  It will be so good to see the kids and the grandkids.  It has been too long.”

“Well, then let's head to the hotel.  They have a floor of suites waiting for us.”

“It will seem odd being back at the vineyard, knowing this will probably be the last time we are in Pittsburgh.”

“When we came here to visit Jennifer three years ago, who knew we would be here this long.”

“Yes, I mean it’s not like we didn’t go back to see the kids but it is time to go home.  The vineyard is home.  That’s where we belong now.  Can you believe the twins are in high school and Tally and Juss are in college?”

“Guess we are moving back just in time.” Brian kissed Justin and led him out to the town car that was pulling up. As he bent to get in the car, Justin saw Brian pull a face. 

“Are you alright? Does something hurt?” Justin asked as he got in next to him.

“Nothing serious. You know getting old isn’t easy.”

“For 80 you are doing quite well, darling.” Justin kissed him.

“I’m 79.” 

“Yes, you are, Brian, for a couple more weeks but don’t ignore my question.  What hurts?”

“Everything. Was having radiation the smartest thing for someone my age?”

“Brian, I wasn’t ready to have you go anywhere yet. Maybe that was just selfish on my part.”

“No, Sunshine, you’re right. I have too much to live for to go anywhere yet except California to be with our family.”

Brian relaxed against Justin.  He had finished radiation almost six months ago and he was still not as lively as he used to be but he had to remind himself he was almost 80 and Jusitn didn’t seem to mind that he wasn’t quite as energetic as he used to be but the passion would never end.  “You know, Justin.  We would have stayed this long anyway.  We needed to be here for Jenn.”

“And the doctor told us you might be a bit slower but up until you had treatment again, you were still exercising four days a week.  At my age I could barely keep up with you.”

“Liar…..but I love you for it.”

Justin’s phone rang and he looked at it but didn’t answer it.

“Not the kids?” Brian asked.

“No, just that reporter.  I promised I would get together with her but that was before Mom passed away.”

 “Well, when you are rated one of the best artist of the twenty first century, you’re a hot commodity.  I’m just glad you’re my hot commodity. Call her back.  You have time.  See if you can set up an interview in the next few days while we are still here.” Justin called her back while Brian shut his eyes and sat quietly for a while.  He thought about the day Justin found out he had received the honor.  Jenn had just been transferred to a nursing home and Brian had just finished his treatments and was always exhausted.  Justin had put his life on hold the last six months as Brian regained his strength and as he held his mother’s hand.  He had turned down personal appearances and gallery showings because his family needed him.

“Brian, where did you drift off to?

“A wonderful place. A place called Justin Taylor Kinney.”  Justin kissed him as he ran his hand through Brian’s thick silver streaked hair.   Neither noticed the car come to a stop.

The driver opened the door.  “Gentlemen, we have arrived.”

Justin got out and offered a hand to Brian.  He thankfully accepted, smiling at the man he had loved for 50 years. “Thanks, Sunshine. Let’s go see if any of the family has arrived.” He turned to the driver and handed him $50.00.  “Please have the bags brought up to our room.”

“Yes, sir.”

Brian slipped his arm into Justin’s and they walked into the hotel.  They were barely in the door when  beautiful teenage girls rushed into their arms.  Talia and Justice hugged their grandfathers. “Grandpas!” they said in unison.

“Wow, I know you are both in college but do you have to grow up so fast?” Justin said as he put his arm around Justice’s waist and Brian did the same to Tally.

“Grandpa,” Justice smiled at him, “I’ll actually graduate Next spring.  I have enough credits to finish my classes a year early.”

“I’m just there to have fun and find a rich husband but then I realize I am rich so I can marry for love,” Tally winked at Brian. He kissed the top of her head.  

“Where are your parents and siblings?” Brian questioned them.

“They are in the suites.  It is so cool to have the whole floor so we can just leave the doors open and go back and forth,” Tally commented.

When the elevator stopped at their floor, Justice had a card the desk had given them. It was the only way you could get off on this floor.  The doors opened and they were instantly surrounded.  Brinn wrapped her arms around Justin as tears came to her eyes.  “I’m sorry, Daddy.  Grandma was so special.  We will all miss her so much.”

Justin pulled his daughter into his arms and held her.  She had grown into a stunning woman.  She still practiced some law with her brother Matteo but she mostly ran the winery with Zach.  They had taken over when Brian and Justin moved to Pittsburgh temporarily. After she let go of Justin she moved to Brian. “Hi, Dad, how are you feeling? You look tired.  Come sit down.”

“Be honest, I look old.  I’m really not that tired. I just am not as young as I used to be,” Brian hugged and kissed his daughter.  “Where are Zach and the boys?”

“Zach and Zander had to stay home at the last minute.  It was nothing serious but there was an issue at the vineyard that needed to be dealt with even though it was minor.  Zander volunteered to stay with his dad, although I think it had a little to do with his older girlfriend and the fact she invited him to prom.”

“I’m glad he stayed home then,” Justin said.  “Mom knew all her great grandchildren loved her.  She would want him to do what he had planned.

Gus, strode up from one of the other suites and hugged his dads.  “You guys look good. Sorry we had to come for this reason but it has been too long.  You are coming back to California with us, right?”

Brian hugged his son. It had been too long. “We will be back there soon.  I am guessing in the next couple weeks we will make it permanent.  Justin has an interview to do and we are having a get together with our friends next weekend.  Then we will move back.”

A tall, lanky teenage boy came down the hall.  “Hey, Gramps plural.”  Brennon had coined that many years ago when he greeted both his grandfathers. He had the height and build of Brian but the fair hair of Justin.  He gave each of them a quick hug and kiss.

“No, prom for you?” Justin asked as he held onto Brennon's hand for a minute.  

“I’m not the monogamous type,” the almost 16 year old said.

All of them moved into the largest suite and sat around.  Shelby had been on the phone when they arrived.  She kissed both her fathers in law and sat down on the arm of Gus’ chair.  “We are not grandparents yet but Taylor was advised not to travel so she is home with her feet up.  Ian is taking good care of her. Maybe by the time you get back she’ll be here.”

“It’s a girl?”

“I am not sure but I feel it is,” Shelby responded. “And Gage is running the business while we are here. He and Tabitha are in the middle of wedding plans.  It will be a fall wedding.”

“It sounds like we are getting back just in time,” Justin said as he moved closer to Brian, who naturally put his arm around him and pulled him closer still. “Brinn, well any of you, have you heard how Dan is doing?” Justin asked knowing Brian couldn’t bring himself to do so.

“I spoke to Danny yesterday.  He is holding his own.  He and El are spending time there everyday so Marcus doesn’t get burned out.  I think it will be good to have you back, Daddy.  Marcus could use his best friend. I am sure Dan will be glad to see you too, Dad.  You two have been friends so long and the fact that you both just went through cancer treatments.  It’s sad that nothing more can be done for Uncle Dan.   But he is comfortable for the most part and although eventually…..well, he still should have a few good months.”

Justin felt Brian’s whole body tremble. He glanced at the clock knowing Brian needed a little time to let all that sink in.  “We have dinner reservations in two hours.  I think it would be good if we got settled into our bedroom.  We have all night and tomorrow to talk.  The service is at 1:00 tomorrow afternoon.  Oh, and do you know when Molly and Tyler are getting here?”

Shelby spoke up, “They are coming in on a commercial flight tonight about 6:00 so they should be here at 7:30.”

“Good, I know this will get real for her when she arrives.” Justin thought about his younger sister.  She had come to visit as often as she could but she was busy trying to raise her grandchildren.  Their daughter, Jenna, had not been an easy teenager and had a child right after high school.  She then had a brief marriage and had a second child.  She had a drug and alcohol problem so Molly and Tyler were raising her children although now that Jenna had gotten clean she had moved back in and started transitioning the children back to her care.

“At least Jenna has finally gotten help and although she still has some mental health issues she is doing really well.”

Justin had a soft spot for Jenna, especially after going through the earthquake with her. “It’s good to know she is doing well.  She has a big heart and if she can stay clean she is a good mom.” He stood and offered his hand to Brian, “We will see all you about 7:00.” 

As soon as Brian and Justin got into their room, Justin had Brian lay down and took off his shoes and then took off his own before he pulled a blanket over both of them.  He put his arms around Brian and Brian turned into him. “I can’t imagine life without Dan.  He has been by my side and on my side for over 40 years.”

“And you have been a great friend.  You two were made to be friends and I feel the same about Marcus. We are both married to beautiful men who have given us everything we could ever want.”

“I didn’t give you anything.  You and I created our life together.”  Brian kissed him.  

“Let’s get a nap.  I set my phone alarm for an hour so we have time to get freshened up.” Brian laid his head on Justin’s chest and drifted off.

At 6:45 the family started assembling in one of the living rooms.  Everyone had decided to dress up for dinner.  Basically there would be no jeans.  Brian, Justin, and Gus had on suits while Brennon was wearing trousers and a button down. Shelby, Brinn, Tally, and Juss wore dresses and heels.

“Wow, looks like each gentleman has a lovely lady to escort to the dining room,” Gage said as he took Shelby’s arm.

“Too bad the rest of us aren’t into girls,” Brennon said under his breath but both Brian and Justin heard him.

“I told you, Sunshine.  He is one of us!  I knew it that day he was five and …..” Brian hugged his grandson.

“And I told you he may or may not be and he will let us know when he is sure.” Justin hugged him once Brian let him go. “Your grandpa always hoped he had a grandson that followed in his footsteps.”

“I am doing my best,” he winked.  “I remember all those stories.”

“And you, young man, are not going to follow that closely.”

“Mom, you can’t say anything.  You were living with Dad about my age.”

“And I wouldn’t change that but I missed out on a lot of living so maybe you can go somewhere between me, being with two men and your grandfather being with hundreds. Maybe you could aim for your grandpa Justin.”

“Brennon, when we get back to the vineyard I promise we can talk.”

Brennon hugged Justin and kissed him, “I’d like that.”

“As soon as school is out, maybe we can take a day trip or you can just spend the weekend at our place.”

“I do have questions, like….”

“Brennon, not another word,” Justice said to her younger brother.  “I don’t care that you’re gay, obviously, but I don’t want to know what you do with your dick.” 

“Juss, you are such a lady,” Brinn shook her head at her daughter.  “I’m hungry.  Let’s go down to dinner.”  Brinn took Justice’s arm.  Brennon offered his arm to his cousin, Tally and Brian and Justin linked their fingers as they all entered the elevator.  

It was a meal filled with laughs and tears. They told stories of Jennifer.  Brian talked about her storming into his office with Justin’s underwear and told him to make sure he did his homework. Justin talked about her acceptance once it sank in.  Each of the kids and grandkids told a favorite thing about Jennifer.  As they ordered desserts and the adults ordered after dinner drinks, the door to the private dining room and in walked Molly and Tyler.  Justin stood and walked over to his sister.  He took her in his arms as she cried. Tyler shook hands with Brian and then greeted everyone else.

“Molly, Mom went the way she wanted to. She was sleeping a lot but when she was awake she was as bright and pleasant as she always was.”

“I am glad of that.  I just wish I could have spent more time with her but with the grandkids I….”

“Mom was so proud of you and how you stepped up to help Jenna and tell Jenna she was so proud Jenna had cleaned up and was getting back with her kids.”

“I’m so glad you and Brian were able to spend time here.  How is Brian?”

“He is doing well.  His stamina is still…”

“Justin, I don’t want to hear about your sex life.”

“I wasn’t talking about our sex life,” he laughed.  “I think our desserts are here.  You can order a drink and share my tiramisu.”

I think I will order a drink and a dessert to share with my husband. We’ll talk later.” Molly hugged him and walked over to Tyler.

It was around 11:00 p.m. when Justin noticed Brian nodding off as he listened to the grandkids talk about school.  He kissed Molly goodnight and left her with Tyler, Gus, Shelby, and Brinn. 

“Brian, I think it is time to go to bed.”

“Justin, I am talking to our grandchildren.  I think I am old enough to know when I am ready to sleep,” Brian snapped.  Justin left him and walked to their bedroom.

Brinn stood and followed Justin, “Daddy, Dad is alright isn’t he?”

“Oh Brinny,” Justin held on to her. After a couple moments he said, “Your dad is fine. He just hates the fact that he isn’t 30 or even 40 anymore. Getting old isn’t easy, especially for someone as proud as your dad. He is still getting stronger from the radiation but it is taking a long time.”

“Daddy, how are you? You have been dealing with Dad and Grandma.”

“I have to admit, I am ready to be home.  I wouldn’t have changed the last few years with Mom but, I miss all of you and I realize, I’m not young anymore. I hope I have a lot of good years ahead yet but there are so many pictures I want to paint yet.”

There was a light tap on the door and it opened. “Am I welcome?” Brian asked.  Justin nodded. Brinn kissed Justin and then kissed Brian before leaving the bedroom.  “I am so sorry, Sunshine.  I have no excuse.”  He walked over and kissed Justin’s cheek.

“Now wait a minute.  That is not going to do as an apology kiss.  It will take a lot more than that!” Justin put his arms around Brian’s neck and as their lips met, they sat down on the bed. 

As they separated, Brian looked into Justin’s blue eyes.  “I am so sorry. You’re right, I was tired but…”

“You don’t want your grandchildren to know you are slowing down a bit.  You know when we were young you wanted to go to bed early.” Justin ran his hand through Brian’s hair and then moved downward.  He unbuttoned Brian’s shirt and brushed Brian’s crotch but didn’t go any further. He could tell Brian wasn’t up to it tonight.

“I’m sorry, I….”

“You will be rested in the morning and we always have amazing morning sex,” Justin smoothed over it.  He tugged at Brian’s shirt and once it was off he threw it in a chair and removed his own. Brian stood and dropped his pants and briefs and threw the pants over the chair with his shirt. He padded across the bedroom to the bathroom.  Justin watched him walk. He still looked good for a man near 80.  Yes, Brian had a few scars from surgeries but he had far more of those.  Maybe his muscle tone wasn’t what it was when he was 40 but he kept himself in shape and he still walked tall and proud. And he still made Justin want to kiss him every time he saw his lips.

Brian walked back and got in bed and Justin went to the bathroom to brush his teeth.  When he returned, Brian was snoring softly.  He curled up behind him and, draping an arm around his waist, he went to sleep.

Justin was pulled out of a deep sleep with the feel of lips trailing down his neck.  “Umm, someone is well rested.”  He turned into Brian’s arms. 

They kissed and explored for a while.  Brian softly said, at one point, “I’m sorry about last night.  “I guess my emotions were on overdrive.  Finding out that Brennon will be doing this someday… I am so glad he told us.”

“You apologized last night, Bri.  I know you didn’t mean anything.  You’ve said a lot worse and did mean it.  You are getting better.  It just takes a while longer.”

“I know you’re right.  I do feel stronger every week.” As they had been talking Jusitn had continued to touch Brian and by now, Brian was aching for Justin. “Turn over, Sunshine.” Brian pressed in and Justin relaxed for his entry.  “You are still my favorite place to be.”

Brinn ended up taking the other bedroom in her father’s suite.  She hadn’t slept well.  The time difference had thrown her system off.  She had called Zach about midnight and it was the wee hours of the morning when they said goodnight.  After getting a couple hours of sleep she had come out to the living area and opened her laptop.  She read a few things about age and radiation recovery.  She felt better when she finished reading.  Her dad would be fine.  She was sure he would.  It was obvious he still had fire in his soul and a reason to go on.  As she read that she was sure she heard something from her dads’ room.  Soon she heard both of them make a sound she had heard so many times,  Her fathers were making love.  There was still so much love between them.

A few minutes later the door opened and Brian walked out. “Brinny, You are awake early.”

“More like I am up late.”

“You didn’t sleep well?”

“My body is just off because of the time change I think,  and I never sleep as well when Zach’s not with me.”

“I know what you mean.  There have been a few nights the last couple months that Sunshine stayed with your grandma.  At least it was in a bed I was used to.”

Brinn got up and hugged him.  “I love you, Dad.  You really are feeling better aren’t you.  Last night you needed to rest but this morning you woke up ready for….”

“Are you saying we should up the soundproofing of the suite in our hotels? Sorry, sweetheart.”

Brinn smiled, “Dad, it made me feel like a kid living at home.  How often did I wake up hearing you two cum? More times than I could count.”

“I might worry but you turned out just fine and so did your brother.  Everything at the vineyard got straightened out?”

“It did.  It was just a shipment of some new supplies that had gotten delayed and since it was a new supplier he felt he should be there and check everything.  Of course, some of it was because Zander really wanted to go to prom but really wanted to be here, too.”

“All of you were here for Christmas.  Jenn talked about the holidays up until the day she died.  I’m glad he is going to his dance.” There was a knock on the door. “I called room service before I came out here.  That will be several carafes of coffee and trays of pastries.”

Brinn opened the door and a cart was rolled in. She signed the room service slip writing in a tip for the young women.  She smiled when she saw mixed fresh fruit in a couple bowls too.  “You’re always thinking healthy.”

“Justin did actually.  He thought something a little lighter or just something to munch on later would be good. So how long have you known about Brennon?”

“That he’s gay? You know, it’s obviously not a big deal.  I have two boys and they are very different in so many ways.  Their sexuality just happens to be one of them but I am glad you are coming home.  I know we have lots of family members that would talk to him or answer questions but he will feel the most comfortable with the two of you.”  She kissed Brian’s cheek as Justin came out of the bedroom.  

Justin’s limp was more noticeable in the morning.  “Got one of those for me?” She met him halfway across the room and kissed him. “Good morning, Brinny.  Nothing makes me happier than seeing you in the morning.”

“Not even having dad….”

“Watch it, young lady.” He hugged his daughter tightly. “I am glad you and brother could make it.  I understand why Jenna isn’t going to make it and I think Paul will be here for the service.”

“Last I heard he will be here mid morning.  His wife and at least one of his kids are supposed to be with him.”

“Mom would be so proud that all of you took time to come but she was even prouder that you saw her at least twice a year.  She loved you.”

“We loved her, too, Dad.” 

More and more of the family trickled in and soon the suite was full.  Justin stayed close to Molly.  Tyler was great support for her but the brother and sister drew comfort from being near each other.  When Paul and his family arrived, it was Molly’s turn to go into grandma mode helping her realize the future is where she needed to focus.  The past was full of wonderful memories but there were many memories yet to be made.

Soon they were told the town cars were there to take them to the service and two and a half hours later they returned, along with some of their friends.  Blake was at the service but went home instead of back to the hotel.  Ted wasn’t feeling up to coming but he was definitely going to be at the birthday party since it was at his house. Lindsay and Mel were there for Gus and his family.  Emmett was there with Drew and Michael and Ben joined them.  Molly had invited several of her friends to join them.  Everyone sat and ate a light lunch and then Molly and Justin shared a few memories.

“I remember the first time I saw Mom with Tuck.  I couldn’t believe she would go out with a guy so young,” Justin started.

“You were shocked? He was my teacher but he made her happy,” Molly smiled.

“Well, he made Mom happy for 30 years. It wasn’t a traditional marriage because they usually took separate vacations and he wasn’t as sociable as Mom but it worked for them.”

Molly continued, “When he passed away, I wasn’t surprised Mom spent a lot of time with us in California but Pittsburgh was home for her.  Thank you, Justin, for uprooting your life for a few years to be with her.” Molly hugged Justin tightly and wiped away a few tears. “I know how lucky we were to have her all these years and if I can be half the mother and grandmother she was, I will do a good job.”

Justin’s arm was still around her waist, “I am so thankful I got to spend a lot of time with her but I have to admit,” he walked over to Brian and put her hands on his shoulders, “I am ready to go  home.  I am about to become a great grandfather.  We have grandchildren I want to watch become adults and I want to sit on the veranda with my love watching the sunset behind the vineyard.”

Brian kissed Justin’s hand on his shoulder.  “We will both miss our friends here,” Brian said but the vineyard is home now. It’s where the heart of our family is.” He moved his hand to point at their kids and grandkids.  

As the afternoon went on the grandchildren went up to the suite and then the children, and then Molly and Tyler, leaving just Brian and Justin with their friends. Mel and Lindsay had gone up to spend a little more time with Gus and his family.

It wasn’t long before the friends said goodbye and reminded them of the time of the party in a couple days and together Brian and Justin rode the elevator up to their floor.  Everyone was in other suites so Brian and Justin chose to take a little time to rest.  They had agreed dinner was on their own unless they decided later to just order subs or pizza.  Right now the only thing Brian needed was a little relaxation and all Justin needed was to be in his arms.

“Hey, Molly and Tyler went out to eat with Paul and his family.  I’m sure our dads will need a little something to eat.  What do you say we just order a bunch of Chinese in?” Brinn asked Gus and Shelby.

“That sounds good.  The kids will like that, too,” Shelby agreed.  We can call in an order and have them deliver.

They figured out what to order and made a call.  Gus went to his dads’ room and tapped on the door. “Dads?”

“Come in, Gus,” Jusitn said as Brian pulled him closer.

“I just wanted you to know that we ordered Chinese and it will be here in about half an hour.”

“Great, thanks Gus, We’ll be out there in a little bit.”

“Are you both….” Gus hesitated.

“We’re fine, sonny boy. We’ll be out before the food arrives.”

“Dads, I know I’m a grown man but I will be glad when you are back home.  I’ve missed you.”

“We have missed you, too.  Come sit for a minute.” Justin patted the mattress next to him.  Gus came and sat down.  “How is Trenton?”

Gus got a sweet smile when he thought about his long time lover. “Pen is great.   His last book is doing very well. I might go with him to his last book signing. We would be low key and rent two hotel rooms but it would be great to get away with him.  We haven’t done it for a couple years.”

“I’m glad you found each other. I doubt Shelby would have done this with anyone else.” Brian said bluntly.

“Pop, I know that.  She knows I love her to death but….”

“Have you ever told Trenton you love him?  It is obvious you do,” Justin took Gus’ hand.

“Dad, I promised Shelly I would never love anyone but her.”

“Gus, she knows. Maybe it's time he hears you say the words. He knows it, but trust me, hearing it makes it all real.”

“I’ll think about it. I really do love him but I promised Shelby…”

“Just talk to her about it.  It will be fine, I promise.”  Justin kissed their son.  “We will be out in a few minutes.”

Left alone, Brian pulled Justin in for a kiss. “I’m thinking dinner and then a boys hot tub and a girls hot tub….if they want to anyway.”

“That sounds amazing,” Justin kissed him and got up.  They both pulled on some jeans and T-shirts before walking out to the main room.

Brian, Justin, Gus, and Brennon were in the hot tub. Brennon had been a bit bashful but the older men averted their eyes as he dropped his robe and got in quickly. Brian, Justin, and Gus were drinking bourbon while Brennon sipped on a wine spritzer. Brian didn’t hold back on showing Justin his affection. It was obvious one of his hands was busy under the water and Justin’s head dropped back.

Gus laughed as he looked at Brennon, “You know your grandfathers are always horny or at least they always were.”

“Well, Uncle Gus, what’s it like to have a wife and a husband?”

“I don’t have a husband.”

“You  know what I mean.  Trent has been part of the family my whole life.  Now, me, girls just don’t do anything for me but obviously you enjoy the act of sex with….”

“Hold up a minute.  I would never deny I enjoy sex but I just happen to be in love with my wife and Trenton. I know it is not a normal situation but it has worked for us for close to 20 years.  I couldn’t find contentment with Shelby for some reason. I can’t live without her but I can’t live without Trenton either. Thankfully, Shelby understands me.”                       

“That was well said, son.” Brian said as Justin worked to regain his composure after Brian made him cum.  

Brennon looked at Justin and said, “Gramps Plural, did you just do what I think you did?”

Justin flushed a bit and not just from the hottub.  “Sorry, Brennon, I guess we got carried away. It’s been a crazy….”

“Hey, your adults, old adults actually,” he smirked at them.  “I just want to know how you can be so quiet when you….. Well, you know. At least a couple times a week someone is telling me to shut up.”

Brian laughed, “Why do I have memories of Emmett pop into my mind?”

“Em never did anything quietly,” Justin put his arm around Brian and Brian rested against him.

“Grandpa, you are going to be alright, aren’t you? I mean you’re still getting stronger? We just lost Great Grandma Jenn.  I just…”

Brian moved from where he was sitting over to Brennon and put his arms around him, “You are going to be stuck helping us around the house for a long time.”  

Brennon gave Brian a quick peck on the lips, “Well, if something needs fixing you better be asking Zander.  If you need help organizing your wardrobe, I’m your man.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

By 11:00 p.m. Brian and Justin were lying in bed.  They talked about their friends and the upcoming party.  Then they talked about their family until they drifted off to sleep.

Brian and Justin had a relaxing day for the most part.  By noon everyone was on their way to the airport and they were on their way to Mel’s office. She had talked to Molly a couple hours earlier and now she was going to go through the will with Brian and Justin.  Several years ago Justin talked Jenn into taking him off the life insurance policy.  Molly and Tyler didn’t have money problems at all but they had more use for it than Brian and Justin.  If they wanted to give the money away, they could.  If they wanted to give it to their children, they could. Mel went through the formalities and Justin signed the paperwork. 

“We’ll miss you and Lindz when we are back in California,” Justin said as he stood and hugged her.  “You know you are welcome any time.  We have plenty of properties you could use.  There will be a new baby very soon.”

“Lindz and I will talk about it.  I am not working anymore except wills like this and Lindsay has retired.  Maybe it is time for us to join our family  but maybe we are too old to start over.  We are the same age as you are, Brian.”

“That means you should have several good years left to enjoy the vineyard,” Justin said as he smiled at her.  “We will see you at Ted and Blake’s tomorrow.”

“Yes, I’m glad Ted is up to it.  That stroke took a bit out of him but if he hadn’t broken his hip when he fell, he would have totally recovered.  It really was just a minor stroke.”

Brian was quiet as they strolled the short distance back to the hotel. Justin took Brian’s hand and said softly, “Mortality is slapping us in the face.  Mom is gone and both of  your  best friends are not doing well.”

Brian stopped him and took him in his arms, “You are my best friend, Sunshine. You know that.”

“Bri, we have all lived long and productive lives.  We have families that love us and are there for us. And we have always been there for each other.  I think when our time comes we should have no regrets.” Justin kissed Brian again, “now let's go spend the rest of the day in bed.”

“It’s no wonder I love you,” Brian took Justin’s hand and walked with him into the building.

The next day the old gang was together once more.  Em still owned the catering company but he had a general manager that ran the business but today he had helped plan the food.  As they sat around Ted and Blake’s dining room table, each couple took a turn talking about their children and when they got to Emmett and Drew, since they didn’t have kids, they started talking about the early days.  “Mel and Lindsay’s wedding was one of the first events I planned.  George was so sweet to let us use his solarium.  It was such a beautiful room.  Drewsy, as much as I love you, I still miss Georgie sometimes.  He was the first man that I think really loved me just because I was me.”

“I understand, Em.  He was a kind old man and how could he not love you,” Drew kissed him. “I know we had a bumpy start but I wised up.”

“I was just thinking about the first night I brought you into the diner and you met Mom,” Michael’s voice trailed off mentioning Debbie.  “I know she’s been gone almost 10 years but I still miss her.  She actually thought Justin and I….”

“That was your loss Mikey.  Not really.  You and Ben were meant to be, just like Sunshine and I couldn’t live separate lives.” Brian brought Justin’s hand to his lips.  

The afternoon went on as they talked about the good and not so good old days. They talked about Ted’s foray into porn and later drugs.  “If it wasn’t for Blake …. Well my life got a lot better when he came into it.  We raised our boys and now have grandchildren nearly grown. Nothing could have been better.”

“Well, Theodore, my Kinnetic would never have gotten as big as it did without you.  You were my rock when it came to work.”

“Well, Brian, it was that job that gave us this place.”

Brian opened the gifts for his birthday. Most of them were gifts with sentimental value.  And as afternoon turned to evening, All of them knew they needed to go but they didn’t want to.  Somewhere deep inside they all knew this would be the last time they would all be in the same place at the same time.  Soon they couldn’t put it off anymore hugs and kisses were shared by all and each couple went their own way. 

Brian and Justin were silent on the ride home.  They kissed from time to time and held hands but they were both lost in their own thoughts.  When they arrived in the suite, Brian started undressing and walked out to the rooftop hot tub. Justin followed him out and undressed before getting in with Brian. 

Justin knew it was best not to say anything. After nearly a half hour, Brian finally spoke, “I’m sorry, Sunshine. I’m not much in the mood for conversation.”

“It’s hard to imagine that might be the last time we see them.  None of us are young but we are all in decent health,” Justin commented.

“It’s just hard to think about Dan.  Let’s leave tomorrow. I want to spend as much time as I can with him.”

“I think John is in New York right now.  I bet we can hitch a ride with him back tomorrow. We can call him as soon as we get back in the building.”

“Do you mind going in now?  I just need to get back there.”

“Of course we can,” Justin got out of the tub and offered his hand to Brian.  They dried off and went into the house.

A half hour later they were making sure everything was packed.  The town car would be there at 6:00 a.m.

“Uncle Brian, it is so good to see you!” John rushed over and threw his arms around the older man’s neck.  “I know you were needed here but now you belong in California.”

“Sorry about Jennifer, Justin.  She was a very nice woman.  I really liked her.” John hugged Justin close for a few moments. “It’s good you’re coming home.”

“How is Nora?”

“She is ready to pop any day and still swears this was all because of their last anniversary.  She had her hands full with the three she had and now with Leo in high school and the other two in middle school, a baby changes everything.  Maybe they will get their girl.”  John grabbed the carry ons while some grounds crew loaded a couple suitcases.  Most of their clothes and belongings had been shipped last week.

“We are ready to get home,” Justin said to him as he watched Brian go up the stairs.

“He’s getting better, right?  He isn’t….”

“Brian is almost 80 years old and mortality is seeping in.  He knows he probably won’t see all these friends again and Dan….well….”

“It will do him good to be at the vineyard.”

“I agree and his health  is the best it has been in some time.  He is getting stronger by the day.”

“I’m glad.  I’m not ready to lose him.” 

“Neither am I, John.” They went up the stairs and closed the door behind them.

Brian  spent a little time up front with John, but then came back and sat with Justin.  When John buzzed them asking for a bottle of water, Justin joined him in the cockpit.  “So is Antony really retiring?”

“He is training his successor.”

“How is your daughter doing?”

“I am so proud of Angelica.  She is doing an amazing job following in her dad’s footsteps.”

“How’s her husband adjusting?”

“He seems to be doing well.  Tony loves having someone to speak Italian to and we are just thrilled they decided to come back and settle near us.”

“I know the feeling.  I am ready to be back by our kids and grandkids.”

“Don’t forget the great grandbaby that will be here soon,” John winked at him.

“John, I know you aren’t that close to Marcus and Dan but….”

“It’s not good. He would be in the hospital or hospice if it wasn’t for Elliott and Danny.  Hannah helps out where she can but Dan refused to let her take time away from med school.  She will be home soon for the summer.  I just hope Dan can hold on.”

“It’s going to hit him hard.” John knew Justin meant Brian.  “They are closer than brothers.”

“Justin, I think it is good you are here for Marcus.  He, I think he needs you.  No one has said anything but I think he has been drinking a little more than ….. Never mind.  I am sure I just saw him at a bad moment.”

“Thanks, John.  I will pay attention when we are together. I better go back again.  How much more time?”

“We should be landing in 90 minutes of the wind stays in our favor.”  

Justin squeezed John’s shoulder and went back only to find Brian asleep in his seat. Justin sat down next to Brian and kissed his forehead softly. “Sleep my love.  I think it is going to be a rough afternoon.”

Brian and Justin both sighed as they dropped onto the swing on their veranda. Brian pulled Justin close, “I have missed this view. It is so perfect here.”

 “And the best part is the kids are five minutes away.”

“I couldn’t agree more,” Brian kissed Justin’s neck. “I think I feel better already. Have you heard from Marcus?”

“Yes, he was in town so he is stopping on his way home. In fact, I think I hear a car now.”

Brian stood up and kissed Justin, “I’ll give you two a little space. Find out when we can go over to see Dan today.  I need to see him.”

Justin squeezed his hand.  “I will, love.  Thank you.” Brian ducked into the house just as Marcus stopped his car. Justin rushed to greet his friend and as he got to the car Marcus flung himself into his arms.

“I have never been happier to see anyone in my life,” Marcus said as Justin’s arms went around him and their lips met. They kissed for several moments before they each took a step back.

“Marcus, do you have a few minutes to sit down?”

“I don’t have much time but I have 10 minutes. Danny is with Dan but he has to pick up one of the kids from something.”

Justin could see how frazzled Marcus was.  “Brian wants to see Dan.  Can we come over, maybe around 5:00? We can pick up some dinner..”

“Please don’t bring any more food.  No one knows what we need so they bring us food.” 

Justin squeezed his hands, “Ok, Marcus.  We won’t bring food.  Is 5:00 a good time?”

“Yes, that will work.  I….I am so glad you are home. You’re staying, aren’t you?”

“We have to go away for a weekend next month but otherwise we are here for good.”

“I better go.  I know Brian isn’t always fond of us spending time alone together.”

“Brian is fine with you spending time with my husband,” Brian said as he walked out of the house and hugged Marcus. He kissed him lightly on the cheek. “Did I hear we are having dinner together?”

“Yes, I’m afraid Dan goes to bed early.”

“Marcus, we’re here for you and Dan.  Whatever you need, and if that means kissing my husband, I do understand.” Brian smiled at Marcus as he pulled Justin into his arms. “We will be there around 5:00.”

“Sunshine, when did I start looking so old?”

“Bri,” Justin put his arms around Brian’s neck running his fingers through his hair at the back of his neck. “You know you still turn heads.”  He kissed him.

“No, they are wondering what a good looking guy like you is doing with an old man like me.”

“Sweetheart, are you prepared for this? Are you sure you want to do this today.  We were up early on Eastern time.”

“I slept a couple hours on the flight and we won’t be late.  I need to do this.”  He clung to Justin for a little bit, “What am I going to do without him?”

“We will spend as much time with him as we can and we will be there so he can go gracefully when it is time.”

“I love you, Sunshine. I just….” He brought his mouth down on Justin’s with more strength than he had in months.

Justin parked the car close to the house and walked around to take Brian’s hand. “Sunshine, I want to see him alone first.  I need time….”

“You can have as much time as you need.” As Marcus opened the door Brian and Justin walked up the steps, hand in hand.