Chapter 11

Brian waited at the house until Tyler arrived. Brian explained what was going on and by the time Gus arrived Tyler had already gotten into Trenton’s tablet. Brian saw the look on Gus’ face and met him at the door. He put his arms around him and held him tightly.  “Don’t jump to any conclusions.  Hold it together.  Tyler needs your help.”

Gus held onto his dad tightly for a moment and then took a deep breath before stepping back.  “What do you need me to do, Tyler?”

“Hey, Gus, will you look around and just let me know what is missing?”

Gus walked around the bedroom and found  a small suitcase missing along with his toiletries and some clothes, although he wasn’t sure how much.  He did see the silk pajamas and robe he had given him on his last birthday were gone.  He knew Trent wore this most nights he wasn’t here.  He came back out to the main room and he realized what else was missing, “Where is his tablet? Have you seen his computer?  He puts everything into his computer.”

“It isn’t here.  The tablet looks like it is new?” Taylor asked.

“Yes, he used it for speaking. I didn’t see him use it for anything else.  His computer is his life.” Brian put his arm around his son. “Where is he? It’s a good sign he took his pajamas isn’t it?  I mean that means he just went somewhere to sleep.”  

“Why don’t the two of you head home.  If I have any questions I’ll give you a call but there is nothing you can do here?”  

Gus stepped the door ahead of Brian. “Oh, Gus, I need to grab something.  I’ll follow you home.” Brian went back to Tyler, “Gus is thinking taking the pajamas is a good thing but I don’t think that’s right.”

“Dan rubbed off on you.  It might be a good thing but it could also just be the favorite thing he wants with him when…”

“That’s how I saw it.”

“Assure Gus I’ll do my best.” Tyler said as Brian walked out the door.

“I know you will, Tyler.”

Shelby had just arrived home and started dinner.  She hoped it was just a quiet night for the two of them. She hummed as she poured a glass of wine.  She heard her phone ping and smiled thinking it would be Gus telling her he was on the way home.  She reached for it and looked and then stopped the humming. “Shelby, I am sorry for the trouble I have been causing you. You don’t deserve it. Tell Gus not to look for me but please keep an eye on my house.  I will be back when I am back to normal.  Please tell him….” Trenton’s text arrived and she waited for the remainder of it but nothing more came.  She tried texting him back and a message popped up that the phone was no longer in service.  What was going on? Shelby wondered.  She started texting Gus but then she heard his truck pull up.

He rushed into the house with a look on his face she could only call it shock.  She walked over and hugged him.  She didn’t know what was going on but she was sure it had to do with Trenton. “Gussy, what is it? What’s going on?”

“Trenton has disappeared. He hasn’t answered me all day. I told you I yelled at him last night.  He took some of his stuff and he’s gone.”

“Gus, I was just texting you.  He just texted me.”

“What? Why didn’t you….” he took a deep breath.  “I’m sorry, Shel, may I see the message?” Shelby handed him her phone and put her arms around his slim waist.  “Did you text him back? Why did it stop right there?”

“Gussy, I tried texting him back immediately and you can see it says the phone is disconnected.” Shelby kissed him and held him close.  I’m sorry.  I have been putting stress on both of you. What are we going to do?”

“Tyler’s already looking.”

Brian stopped by the barn and whispered to Justin and they moved to the door.  Justin said to the two young men at different ends of the barn.  “Don’t plan on us for dinner.” Leaning on  Brian, they walked out of the barn.

Nico flew down the steps and over to Kevin.  “What is going on?” 

“I don’t know.  When Rage stopped by earlier…”

“Rage?”

“Well, probably 45 years ago Justin did a cartoon about him and it was called Rage…” Kevin  smiled.  “Sexiest cartoon ever written.”

“I have got to see that and Rage does fit him.”

“Anyway, it has to do with their son, Gus but I didn’t hear what the problem was.”

“Well, Since I have dinner already started in the house, you may as well eat with me and maybe….” Nico whispered, “We can look for some movies.”

Kevin giggled, “I like the way you think.” Nico kissed him and grabbed his ass.  I wonder what it’s like to make love in that bed of theirs.”  They both smiled now, “Well, maybe not tonight but some time…”

“You know if Brian is Rage man what is Jusitn’s codename?”

“I think Monet.  Not only is his work beautiful, so is he and many of Monet’s paintings were just a bit out of focus and I feel like Justin is unfocused right now.”

“Rage and Monet.  Sounds good to me!” Nico smiled.  “Come to the house in an hour?”

“I’ll be there.

Justin and Brian entered Gus and Shelby’s house.  “We don’t need to be here if you don’t want us to be but we thought you might like a little  company.”

The four settled in for a long evening.

Nico and Kevin talked as they ate dinner.  They talked about the Rage comic series and looked at it on Nico’s laptop set between them.  “Wow, he is gorgeous, even as a cartoon.”

“And sexy as hell.” Kevin responded to Nico.  

“I really don’t think we should dig for their personal movies tonight but I know there are plenty of others to watch. And I promise, I will keep an eye open for anything while I’m cleaning.

“That sounds smart.  Let me help you clean up.  It is always more fun with help.

Brian and Justin went home after hearing from Tyler.  He had agents checking out the airports and taxi services in the area and he would be in contact as soon as he heard from any of them.

When Brian and Justin arrived home, Kevin had already gone home and Nico was in his room.  Justin laid down with a sigh.  “Hurting worse tonight?”  Brian asked as he gently rubbed his leg, letting his hand graze his cock every few strokes.  He felt Justin relaxing.  “Sunshine, tomorrow we have to be in town for an appointment at 10:00.”

“Did Tyler tell you something you didn’t tell me?”

“No this doesn’t have anything to do withTrenton.”

“What is it? Do we have to meet with the bankers or something?”

“Justin, the specialist is coming into town to look at your leg.”

“What the hell, Brian?” Justin jerked away. “I had a couple weeks left.”

“Left to what, Sunshine?” He reached for his hand and refused to let it go.  “Left to suffer.  Left to worry.  I know you are scared. So am I but the anticipation is only making it worse.”  Brian felt the fight drain out of him.

“Bri, what if….what if they say they have to take my leg? What if I can’t walk anymore?”

Brian wrapped his long arms around Justin and Justin slumped against him.  “We will see what they say and you can decide but you know I will always be here.  I will never leave your side. Whatever you choose, we will do this together but we are going to find out sooner rather than later.”

Justin didn’t respond verbally but his lips sought out Brian’s and they fell asleep pressed tightly against each other.

Tyler called Gus and Shelby first thing in the morning to let them know an Uber driver picked up Trenton yesterday morning about 11:00 and dropped him off in the center of town.  He was going to have an agent go to that area and check around as soon as stores are open and another agent is already following up on calls made yesterday about transportation out of the area.  Shelby was surprised but thankful when Gus said he was going into work.

“Shel, I will drive myself crazy sitting here and worrying.  I have to believe he ….. Shit, as far as I know he just went away to end his life but I can’t believe that.  I just know I would feel if he wasn’t here anymore.  I…”

Shelby hugged him and then kissed him.  “Call me if you need me and, Gussy, please stay in the office today.  I know you will be too distracted to be on a build site.”

“I’ll be at the office.  Can we have lunch together?”

“I would love that.  Can I let you know a time after I check what is up at the office?”

“Talk to you soon,” Gus said as he walked out the door.

Justin hadn’t slept much  By 4:00 a.m. he left the bedroom and went to the kitchen.  He started making some homemade bread. As the dough rose he sauteed some chopped apples with caramel and walnuts. 

“Justin, what are you doing up so early?” When Nico spoke Justin jumped.  “I’m sorry,” he put a hand on Justin’s shoulder and spontaneously kissed his cheek. “I didn’t mean to scare you.”

“I just couldn't sleep.  I thought I’d make homemade rolls with a caramel apple filling.”

“Should you be on your feet this long?” He brought a stool around the counter for Justin.

“Thank you.  It is starting to bother again.  I am about to roll it out and then I will sit.”

“Could I try? I have never made bread.  It is something I have always wanted to try.”

“Sure, go for it.”  Justin gave him a couple directions as Nico rolled it out and then spread out the filling.  Once the dough was rolled and sliced they put it in a warm oven to let them rise.  

Justin handed him a cup of coffee and they sat side by side sipping coffee.  “Justin, I know it is none of my business but do you want to talk about it?”

“Brian lied to me.  He called the specialist in and he will be here today.”

“I know you have been suffering.  Maybe he is right.”

“Fuck, I know he’s right. I just wanted to put off the inevitable.”

“What is your fear? What do you think the doctor will say?”

“My worst fear is he will say that amputation is the best option. I know I am being vain, especially at my age. I have the world’s best husband who has always been by my side when I need him the most.”

“And you know he always will be. You know Brian is gorgeous no matter how old he is.”

“Well, in his day he would have been all over you, too.”

“Did you play a lot?”

Justin had to laugh, “We did more than our share and it hasn’t been all smooth sailing but it has been a very long time since we played.”

“Why would you need someone else when you have the best?”  Nico smiled at him.

“I think the rolls are ready to bake.” He started  to stand but Nico patted his hand.  “I got this.” He walked around to the oven and put the rolls in the pre-heated oven. 

“Set the time for 20 minutes. Then I will check on them.”

“I will make some lovely, salty bacon to go with those sweet rolls and then you can decide if you want eggs or something else.”  As he started the bacon he continued to chat.  “So in your play days did you take pictures or do movies?”

“Oh, Nico, I think we did pretty much everything but we never did too much on camera.  We did enough.”

“Do you still have them?”  Nico tried not to sound too excited.

Justin smiled, “If I didn’t know better I would think you would like to see some of our homemade porn.”

“Are you flattered or upset?”

“Oh, Nico, you are good for my soul”  Justin hugged him.

“Your soul better be all he’s good for.” Brian physically moved Nico out of the way and moved his lips to Justin’s  “You weren’t there when I woke up.” The kiss was slow and so sensual Nico felt his dick respond.  “You’ve been up a while.”

“Couldn’t sleep so I baked rolls.  They will  be done in a few minutes along with the candied bacon Nico made.”

“Shit, you know I can’t run it off anymore.”

“You don’t need to worry about that.  I might have to learn to walk on a new leg so…”

“Don’t jump to any conclusions. We’ll know soon enough.  Oh, by the way, Gus says they have a lead.  They know where Daniels was dropped off yesterday morning.  They are trying to follow that up this morning.”

“How is Gussy?”

“I’m proud of him.  He is going into work.  He said he just couldn’t sit at home.”

“That’s good.  He would drive himself crazy if he was home.”

“Yes, he said he doesn’t know anything for sure but in his heart he knows he is alive somewhere.”

“Shelby will always be there for him but I can’t imagine Trenton…..the real Trenton wouldn’t do anything but if the stroke is affecting him….”

“Excuse me, Justin? Did you want this caramel glaze drizzled over them.”

“Yes, that is exactly what I was planning.”

“Would you like eggs?” Nico asked his employers.

“None for me,” Justin replied while Brian shook his head.

“Nico, we won’t be here for lunch so don’t worry about us.  I am taking my sexy husband out for lunch.”

“I would show him off if he was my husband.” Nico smiled as he passed out the bacon and the rolls and then refilled their coffee cups with the carafe he had made.

“Join us, Nico.  You helped make them.”

“Thank you.  All I did was assemble but I would love to try one of these.”

The three men chatted and drank coffee and soon they had all eaten a second one and the bacon was gone.  

Brian and Justin went to their room to get ready to go.  As they dressed, Justin said, “I think Nico and Kevin are curious.”

“Curious about what?”

“About you and me in the good old days.”

“It’s not like the world hasn’t seen the paintings of us.”

“It wouldn’t surprise me if that is why they want to see more.”

“Why the hell would I care if they saw us or not. You haven’t gotten shy all the sudden, have you?”

“I was hoping you would say that.  I wouldn’t mind them knowing I wasn’t always an old gimpy man that can’t stand by the counter anymore.”

“What are you going to do? Hand him the box of our personal porn and say, ‘here ya’ go’?”

“Of course not!  That would ruin the fun he and Kevin are going to have thinking they are pulling something over on us.  I will leave it ‘hidden’ when I know they will find it.”

“I like having those boys around.  Nico is doing a great job and I think he might be a bit lonely up here without Kevin.”

“I agree.  They make me feel young again.” Justin kissed Brian and grabbed his crotch.  “Too bad we can’t show them the way we used to.”

“I might be able to still get it up but you’re right, I’m not up to that anymore.”  Brian pulled him close once more and kissed him before saying.  “Sunshine, I love you and no matter what the doctor says and you decide I will never leave your side.”

“Thank you, Brian.  I know I am going to need your help.  You know I go into panic mode so you will need to guide me.”

“I will be there whatever you need.”  Brian offered his hand and Justin took it as he led him toward the car.  

“Justin?” Nico walked up to him and kissed his cheek. He crossed himself.  “I may not go to Mass as often as Mother would like me to but I’m going to light a candle as soon as you leave and say a prayer for you.”

“Thanks, Nico.” Justin gave him a hug.  “Oh, by the way.  Could you check the sheets in the guest room.  Maybe put fresh ones on it in case Adam stays here.  The sheets are in the linen closet in the hall.”

With that Brian and Justin left.  As they pulled out of the drive Brian smirked at Justin.  “Let me guess, you stored the box of pictures and dvds in that closet?”

“Someone has to have a fun day.”

Two hours later Justin was redressed and they sat in a private office waiting for the doctor to review the tests and give them the options they had.  “Brian, maybe I did just push myself farther than I should have in Seattle.  I knew it would probably be my last big adventure.  I knew I was hurting myself.  I felt it.”

“You can rethink it all you want but I know you wouldn’t have changed a moment of that.”

“You’re right.” Justin kissed Brian just as the door opened.

“Well, I was going to apologize for taking so long but I can see you found something to occupy your time.” He smiled over at Justin.  “I know you aren’t in the mood for jokes.  You have been in pain for weeks and you don’t know what’s going on.  I hope I can at least answer some of your questions.”

“Doc, just give it to us straight.  What are our top two or three options.” Brian was almost more tense than Justin.  He held Justin’s hand as the doctor started talking.

“I know we have discussed the most drastic option, but I hope you will be relieved that I think we have a couple better options. Obviously time has not healed  the new injury.  I am sure you are not excited about another surgery however, techniques have changed and improved in the last twenty years.  I feel your best option is to have surgery and we can get rid of a lot of scar tissue and then we can reinforce your muscle with artificial muscle that was not ready to use twenty years ago.”

“How long will that lay me up? And is it a permanent fix or am I going to have to worry again in a few years?”

“I can’t promise you you won't have any pain. I don’t know anyone over 50 who doesn’t have some pain and anyone who has had an injury  like yours is going to have stiffness but what I can say is that his should feel better than it has in a couple years.”

“What other option does he have,” Brian asked as he put a protective arm around Justin.

“I can go in and just clean out the scar tissue.  That will decrease the tightness and should help a bit with the pain.”

“It is obvious what you think he should do,” Brian remarked.

“I know the two of you don’t just sit around.  You enjoy being active.  But I can’t tell you what to do.  I am going to give you all the details for both options and the two of you can think about it.  I know your friends are doctors.  Let them look at everything.  Talk to them.  If they want to talk to me, I will put my personal cell on the paperwork.  Just let me know what you decide.”

They left the office and Brian didn’t say anything, waiting for Justin to let him know when he was ready to talk about it.  He drove to Wine and Design but instead of eating in the downstairs cafe area Brian ordered for them and led Justin up the backstairs to the apartment above.  No one was living there at the moment so Brian thought it would give them the privacy they needed, whether Justin wanted to talk or not.

Nico found the box with pictures and DVDs when he was pulling out fresh sheets.  He called Kevin, “Get that gorgeous ass of yours over here.”

“Nico, what is it?”

“I box full of movies and photos.  And the guys won’t be back for a couple hours.   We probably shouldn’t watch them right now but we need to get them over to your house and tonight….you, me, a bottle of wine and more hotness than either of us have witnessed.”

“I’ll be there in 5.”

Ten minutes later the two men were sitting on Nico’s bed, both digging through the small box. “Oh my god, this man is magnificent.” Nico was looking at a picture of Brian.

“Have you seen this one.  This man is perfect.  No wonder Brian calls him Sunshine.  Every part of him lights me up.” Kevin  began to rub his crotch.  He glanced over at Nico and he was obvious in the same situation.  He looked up and their eyes met.  Immediately they both stood up and started undoing the pants and within moments Kevin was thrusting into Nico hard and fast and ten minutes later they were walking out of Nico’s room.

Nico carried the box and handed it to Kevin. “Let’s meet at the barn tonight.  My computer there has the best features for what we need to do.  Take these there.  I will get them back in the house after we have saved them.”

Kevin stopped and kissed Nico playfully. “They are really as sexy as I imagined.”  

“Let’s not look at them too much tonight.  Let’s just get them saved and then this weekend we can have a movie marathon at your place.” Nico commented

“I’ll make sure I have lots of lube.  I think we are going to need it. Let me know what time you will be at the barn.”

“I will and I will bring you some dinner.”

Brian and Justin had barely made it upstairs when Justin turned into Brian’s arms and hung onto him.  “Woah, Sunshine, let’s sit down before we both fall down.” They walked over to the sofa and Justin instantly clung to him again. “What is it, Justin? What are you thinking about?”

“I was so sure he was going to say amputate but I still don’t know if I want to…. Oh, god, Brian, am I too old to think about a surgery like this? Or should I just have the scar tissue removed.  I don’t know if I want to…”

“Justin, you are too young to think you are old. Do you really think ok is good enough?  It is up to you, of course, but let’s have Danny and Elliott look over your records and see what they suggest.”

“I just don’t know if I want to go through the pain again.”

“Sunshine, I hate to tell you this but you are always going to have pain.We just aren’t young anymore but I know you can handle anything.” There was a tap on the door, “Come in.”

One of the wait staff from downstairs brought in a tray and set the food down.  “I will come and collect  the plates when I know you have gone.”

“Thank you.  It smells great.” Justin stood and leaned on Brian as they walked across the room.  “The food looked amazing and there was a box filled with several bitesize desserts they hadn’t ordered but they all looked amazing.

Brian changed the subject.  “So have you heard anything else about Adam’s visit?”  

“Marcus said he will arrive tomorrow.”

“He isn’t really staying at our house is he?”

“I told Marcus he could if he wanted to.  I thought better our place than his.”

“The man is rich.  He can’t get a hotel?”

“Of course he could but if it gets really late or if we have a little too much wine…”

“Ok, I guess I understand that.” They both worked their way through a salad and sandwich sharing both. Brian’s phone buzzed and he pulled it out.  “It’s Gus.  No word on Trenton.  He seems to be doing ok.  I’m a little worried that there may be a point when he just breaks like he did when Seth left.”

“He’s a lot older now.  And I think with Shelby, he will be alright but I hope we find him soon. Call Tyler and see if he really has found nothing.  He won’t tell Gus anything until he knows something for sure.” Justin kissed Brian.  “I’m going to call him.” He pulled out his phone and called his brother in law. “Tyler, hey Gus said you haven’t got anything yet?”

“Nothing for sure so I didn’t want to get his hopes up. After tracking his path yesterday and looking at surveillance cameras around town I think he may have taken a train somewhere.  We have two possible destinations. One train went north and one went south. I have already sent agents both directions.”

“Thanks, Tyler, and thanks for holding that back from Gus.  You know him well. Please keep Brian or me in the loop.”

“Always.  How are you doing, Justin? Molly said you have been having some real problems with your leg.”

“Tell my baby sister not to worry.  I saw my specialist this morning and tell her I will call her once we decide what we are going to do.”

“I will.  I am sure she will be calling you.” 

The call ended and Justin leaned against Brian.  “Can we go home? I didn’t sleep much last night and all of the sudden I am so tired I can barely keep my eyes open.”

“Sure,” Brian pulled out a $100 bill and through it on the counter.

“Don’t forget those desserts.  I’m thinking that would be perfect tonight.  Do you mind if I invite Marcus over to eat?  Jed and Brennon are going to something at school and I think Marcus….

“Sunshine, that’s fine.  I do understand.  We’ll have Nico make something and then give him the night off.”

“I have a feeling he and Kevin have plans.”

“What? Watching the movies?”

“Oh, my guess is they are making copies tonight.”

“Copies? Do we want them to have copies?”

“I trust both of them and both of them have signed a non-disclosure.  If they say anything about us after they leave, they’re done and they know it. But, I don’t think they would anyway.  Both of those boys have great futures.  They aren’t going to be stupid.” Justin had taken the steps slowly but by the time he got to the bottom he was hurting.

“We should have eaten in Gus’ old office.”

“My whole body is tired today, not just my leg.  I’ll be fine after a nap.”

“I’ll hold your hand, or anything else you want me to hold once we get home.” 

“Bri, back in the day…..this time I really do need sleep.”  Justin texted Marcus as Brian drove them home.  “Marc will be over around 6:30.  He is just coming to eat because he has some things he wants to get together before  Adam comes tomorrow.  I think he is getting together pictures and I am sure that isn’t easy for him.”

Brian pulled the vehicle into the garage and then took Justin’s hand before he could step out. “Sunshine, if you get some rest and want to go home with him later and help get some things together you may.  I can only imagine what he is going through looking at their life together.”

“I will let him know that.  He may want to be alone.”

“Well, if he wants anyone it’s you.” Brian saw the bit of worry on Justin’s face.  “No, Sunshine.  I can understand that he needs his best friend now that Dan isn’t around.” Brian let go of his hand and they both got out of the car and Brian moved around to take Justin’s arm.  Ten minutes later, Nico had directions for dinner and Brian and Justin were in the room to take a nap.

Shelby and Gus met for a late lunch at his office.  As she walked in with a bag of food, she locked the door behind her. She set the bag down and started unbuttoning her blouse, Gus looked up from his desk and took in a sharp breath.  She was in a tight pencil skirt and high stilettos. 

“Oh, god, you are….” Gus met her halfway and instantly started pulling up her skirt as she pulled at his belt. Gus pushed the notebook he had been writing in off to the floor and soon Shelby was laying across it with her chest on the top as Gus entered her from behind.   It was only moments before she cried out and Gus joined her. As he leaned over her he softly said, “You are the most gorgeous woman I have ever met.”  

Soon they were both redressed and sat next to each other eating their lunch.  “I saw the message from Tyler,” Shelby commented.  “He didn’t text you more?”

“No,” Shelby saw him go somewhere else for a moment but then he was back. “I am sure Tyler will find him.  Dan taught him everything he knew and Tyler brought a lot of his own skill with him.  I just have to believe he will find Pen.”

“Gus, I am here for you. I am here for Trenton.  I didn’t cause any of this, did I?”

“Oh, Shelly, I’m the only one to take the blame.  I fell asleep and then snapped when I woke up. I don’t even know what I said as I ran out of the house.”

“Gus, it isn’t your fault.  If Trent was thinking normally how would he have reacted?”

“He would have shrugged it off and never thought about it.”

“Exactly, it was no one’s fault.  And when we find him, we will pull together anyway we have to.  If you need to go out there for a while I would understand.”

Gus wrapped his arms around her and kissed her, “You are so amazing.”  They finished lunch and Shelby stood to go back to work.  “Would you like to go to dinner tonight? Maybe dancing? You look too hot not to show you off.”

“Dinner sounds great.  Dancing? I don’t know how long I can keep these shoes on but I would love to eat at Wine and Design.  The food is always so good there now that George’s students cook there.”

“That sounds perfect.  Just let me know the time.” After a prolonged kiss at the door, Shelby walked out with a smile on her face.

Gus’ foreman walked in his office, “I could use a nooner like that.  Your wife is one hot lady! Of course I was talking about a nooner with my husband.”  Gus patted his back as they walked to the drafting table.

Nico texted Kevin, ‘I’ll be at the barn in 30 minutes’.  He set his phone down and just as the buzzer for the oven went off. He turned off the oven and went out to the patio with a tray of swordfish steaks.

Marcus arrived just as Brian and Justin walked down the steps. Justin gave Marcus a hug and then Brian did the same.  “Hell, don’t look so shocked,” he said as they separated. 

Marcus smiled, “Sorry, old habits.”

“Gentlemen, since it is such a lovely mild night I thought you might enjoy eating out here.  I’ll start the fire pit to add a little warmth as it gets cooler.”

“That sounds good,” Justin replied.  “If you want to go get the rest of the food together, we can watch the fish. I think I heard you mention going to have dinner with Kevin.”

“I’m in no rush but I did tell him I would bring him dinner.  If you don’t mind, he loved that pasta from the other night and there is ….”

“You are always welcome to our leftovers, unless we tell you something different.” Brian commented as he walked over to the grill.  “You two pour us some wine while the food is finished up.”

Justin poured wine for all of them and as they sipped it, he told Marcus about the doctor’s appointment.  “So what are you going to do?”

“I am still thinking about it.  I was so sure he would tell me the only solution was to take it off that I was surprised.  My first thought is to just have the scar tissue taken care of and….”  Brian made a noise over by the grill.  “You don’ t have to verbalize your thoughts, Brian Kinney.  You say it’s my choice but you…”

“Sunshine, it is your choice.”

“What is the other option?” Marcus asked and Justin told him more details.  “Well, Justin, talking to El and Junior sounds like a great idea but from what you’ve said, unless the boys think differently, I agree with Brian.”

“You’re supposed to be my best friend, Marc.”

“I am your best friend and that is why I want you to live a full life.”

Just then Nico walked out of the house with a tray of food and plates.  He quickly set the table and arranged the food just as Brian took the fish off the grill. Brian took his seat and Nico dished out the first servings for each of them.  

“Is there anything else I can do for you?  I didn’t make dessert because you said you brought some home.  I’ll bring that out before I leave.  Would you like me to turn down your bed before I leave?”

“I think we can manage that,” Brian laughed.  “I wonder how many beds….” Justin swatted him and then kissed him. 

“Nico, you go ahead and have dinner with Kevin.  We won’t need you again tonight so feel free to stay with Kevin as long as you like.” Justin continued, “I’ll be going to Marcus’ house for a while after dinner so Brian is in charge of cleanup.”

“Oh, don’t bother.  I will do it in the morning.  As long as the food is put away.”

“Go, have fun.  Are you two hanging out at the barn or Kevin’s?”

Nico looked a little nervous for a second, “I think we are staying at the barn.  He wanted to show me some of his work.”

“Ya, I bet he’ll show you…” Justin hit Brian again.

“Subtle, Brian. You are so subtle.” 

“No kiss this time?” Brian asked as he leaned over and kissed Justin this time.

Nico left and the three friends ate the meal.  “He is an amazing find.  Is all his food this good?”

“It really is.” Justin said and then the conversation skipped around as they ate.  As they ate dessert, he continued, “Marc, would you like me to come home with you? I know you were reviewing pictures for Adam tomorrow.”

“I don’t want to take you away.  I know you two have decisions to make.”

“We already talked about me helping you and I want to talk to your sons before I do more thinking about it.”

“Then I would love for you to be there.  I might need a little…” 

Brian got up and walked around to Marcus and hugged him tightly.  “I can’t imagine… Dan would be glad you are doing this.  He wanted to but he just couldn’t…”

“You did know about Adam,” Marc stated flatly.

“I didn’t know he had been in contact the last couple years but back after their father died, he talked to me.  He was hurt when Adam politely said he'd rather not have a relationship.”

“When was that?” 

“It had to be just before the two of you met. Or it might have been right after but before you were too involved.”

“I wondered if you had known.”

“Marcus, I don’t think he kept any real secrets from you.  He loved you so much.”

Marcus stood and now he hugged Brian tightly.  “Thank you for telling me that.”

“Well, let's head to your place.” Justin commented.  “I can’t stay up all night anymore.” It was Justin’s turn to hold onto Brian for a few moments.

“Let me know when you are coming back, Sunshine and I will start running a bath.”

“That sounds perfect, Bri.”

Nico arrived and walked up behind Kevin as he was trying to finish some work.   Nico wrapped an arm around his waist and thrust against him several times. 

“Niccy, stop.  I will be distracted soon enough. Go upstairs and start downloading the dvds onto your computer and when I come upstairs we can eat and look at pictures while everything gets transferred.

“If we look at too many of those pictures we are going to have to do more than eat!  Those men are so beautiful and I want to see more of that amazing loft they shared.” Nico said after giving Kevin a quick kiss and he rushed upstairs.  “Don’t be long.  We don’t want the food to get cold.”

“I’ll be up by the time you get the food out.  I just need to clean up my tools.”

Gus was drinking.  He and Shelby had eaten a great dinner but now Gus had lost himself in the buzz of alcohol and the music being played.  Shelby had kicked her shoes off long ago and was dancing with him.  When the music slowed Gus pulled Shelby close and together they swayed to the music.  Shelby could almost feel his body get heavy.  The depressant of the alcohol was making his mood crash quickly.  She was sure Trenton’s disappearance was hitting him but he was trying so hard to hold on.

“Let’s go home, Gussy.  I think we need to go home now.”

Gus didn’t say anything but he nodded.  All of the sudden he felt like his body was weighed down but it was his spirit now his body that was heavy. Gus had parked behind the building so they left together in Shelby’s car. They were barely out of the city lights when Shelby was sure Gus was crying and before they got home, Gus was asleep.

“Marcus, this is from Ibiza. Remember that trip?  It was so much fun.”

“That trip was so amazing.  I never felt closer to him.  It was like something changed between us.  I think I was sure we were forever while we were there.  Forever shouldn’t be here yet.” Marcus’ head dropped into his hands and Justin moved closer holding him in his arms, crying with him.  Marcus hadn’t planned it but his mouth brushed Justin’s and then it deepened but quickly he pulled himself together.  “Shit, I’m sorry.  It has just been so long and well…”

Justin held Marc for several minutes as his body trembled.  “You know when you’re ready Dan would understand.  He would want you to do anything that makes you happy.”

“I know. I do believe that and when I am ready…  Well, that won’t be for a long time.  So, I think we have a nice variety of pictures to show Adam.  He is coming midday tomorrow.  Jed will meet him and then he is going to hang overnight at Brinn’s.  I thought it could be a little uncomfortable for him.  He is such a great kid.”

“Yes, and I think the two of you are just what the other one needed.” 

“I honestly don’t know if I could stay in this house without him.”

“Is there any word about his mom and sisters?”

“Yes, he actually talked to them this week and in a couple weeks I told him we would set up a day we could meet them and spend the day  together.  He had a good talk with his mom, too.  I don’t think I was half that mature at his age.”

“I think he has had to grow up fast over the years but now he feels secure and can be a kid.”

“He is welcome here as long as he wants to stay.”

“That is all a kid like him can ask for.  He knows you love him.”

“I really do. You are tired, my friend.  Go home and have that bath with Brian.  Make love because you never know when it will be your last time.” 

Justin called Brian, “Hey, Bri, I’m on my way back.”

“I’ll start filling the tub.”

“Bri?”

“Yes.”

“I love you.”

“I love you, too, Sunshine.”

Marcus and Justin hugged and Marcus said he’d be in touch tomorrow and Justin went to love his husband.

Nico and Kevin sat on the old sofa together, flies open and an empty tube of lube between them.  They were surrounded by pictures and used tissues.  “These are even better than I could have imagined.  Justin was a baby!  And, god, Brian was pure perfection,” Nico oozed.

“And to be able to play in a loft like that.  I can’ imagine having a place like that.” Kevin loved the artistic side of the place.

“I wonder how many of the steel beams were used for support as they went at it.”  Nico reached for Kevin’s dick but Kevin pushed his hand away.  

“I can’t again.  Can you get dehydrated from cumming too often?”

“I don’t know but it might be worth it to try sometime.” Nico kissed him lightly.  “Well, at least we got everything scanned in and downloaded.”

“Tomorrow night we can have movies at my place.” Kevin said.  “Can you make us dinner? You are so much better at cooking then I am.”

“I can do that.  I do have to work on my paper most of the day but maybe around 5:00 I will wrap it up for the day and then I will come to your place. And I will sneak this box back into the house.  By now they will be in their room for the night.”  They packed up the pictures and cleaned up their mess before kissing and going their separate ways.

While Brian filled the tub for Justin, Shelby helped Gus into the foamy water of their hot tub. She cradled him as he talked about Trenton and how he was still sure he hadn’t done anything drastic but where was he? And then Gus began kissing her and his hands were everywhere and then she was straddling him and as she moved down, Gus thrust up to meet her.

Brian had just slipped into the water when Justin walked in.  “Getting a headstart are you?” Justin gripped the side of the tub as he bent over to kiss Brian but as he stood and was going to step into the tub, Brian gently reached for his cock and moved his mouth to the edge so he could lick the tip. Justin’s whole body shivered. After a few moments Justin stepped in and sank into the steaming water.  Laying against Brian’s chest, Justin reached back and tilting his head so Brian’s mouth could link with his.  When they separated, Justin had tears in his eyes.

“Sunshine, what is it?” Brian ran his hand along Justin’s cheek.

“I just love you so much and after being with Marcus, I just take my time with you for granted, and I never want to do that. Brian, I just don’t think I could….”

“You aren’t getting rid of me for a good long time.”  Brian said as he tightened his arms around him he placed one hand over Justin’s chest.  “You are taking good care of my heart.”

Marcus was up early.  He had slept better than he expected to but once he was up he couldn’t just sit around.  He decided to go for a run.  He went much further than he expected.  On his way back he slowed his pace and then started to walk.  He stopped at Danny and Elliott’s and had a cup of coffee with them before Danny left with the kids for some activities and Elliott left to do rounds.  

Marcus continued his walk and as he came around the curve, he could see there was a car parked by his house.  He first thought it might be one of the agents and then he thought it might be Jed but as the door of the car opened he could see it wasn’t Brennon or Jed or any young boy.  He stopped and blinked a couple times before he softly said, “Dan, I’ll say hi to your brother for you and he started jogging toward his brother in law.