The Sunshine Files

Chapter 1

"Jee -zus, Brian!"

"What? It's business. I'll be home in a few days."

"But you were supposed to be home today," Justin protested.

"Something came up," Brian said.

Justin remembered what that line of Brian's used to mean. It was his standard reply for getting out of something he didn't want to do. And worst of all it usually meant that what had come up was Brian's dick, and it would be up a trick's ass in the blink of an eye.

"I bet," Justin replied with a tinge of sarcasm.

"Look, it's unavoidable. I intended to come home today, but Leo Brown wants to fine tune the campaign and he is going to take me to dinner with a colleague who may be in the market for a new ad agency."

"Sure," Justin said resigned to something always taking precedence over his time with Brian.

"I'll call you tomorrow and I should be home the following day."

"Sure," Justin repeated.

"Later," Brian said and clicked off. Justin didn't bother to reply and Brian didn't bother to wait for a reply.

"Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!" Justin said to the empty loft.

Brian had been gone since Monday morning and now he wouldn't be home until the weekend. He was in Chicago on business, but it wasn't supposed to take this long.

Justin flopped down on the sofa and turned the TV on. He had been back from California for about a month. The first week he was back Brian had fucked him until he walked bowlegged and was afraid to sit down. His ass thought it would never recover. And then they had fallen back into the usual lack of communication that had plagued their relationship right from the beginning. Brian had been more and more busy building his empire in the advertising world. He had been highly successful at everything he had undertaken. But the more successful he had become the longer hours he worked and the less Justin saw of him.

Money was no longer a problem for either of them. Justin had some saved from his time working with Brett Keller, but he still hadn't decided what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. Brian wanted him to go back to PIFA and finish his schooling. Justin didn't think he could go back to being a college student after being out in the working world. He wanted to work. He just didn't know what he was qualified to do. He was restless and unsettled, and Brian's long absences didn't help any.

Justin had gone through all the channels on the TV without finding anything he wanted to watch. What was that song "56 Channels and Nothing On"? He shut the TV off and got up to wander around the loft. He grabbed a soda from the fridge and carried it over to the computer desk. He debated going on line, but there was nothing there that really interested him at the moment. He wandered over to the bookshelves and scanned the spines of all the books there. He knew he had read most of the novels, but maybe there was a good one that he had missed. He squatted down to look at the lowest shelf when the back of a large green book caught his attention. It was definitely not a novel, but he never remembered noticing it before.

Carefully Justin extricated it from the other books leaning against it. It was heavy and he carried it to the sofa carefully. It looked pretty old. He sat down setting the book on the coffee table and looking at the title. It said "Art of Pennsylvania". Justin looked at the title more closely. That was what it said. He marveled at a whole book on art from this state. It wasn't exactly a hotbed of the artistic world.

Wondering where on earth Brian would have obtained this book Justin opened it to the blank pages inside the front cover. There was an inscription. It read: "When I found this book I knew you would want to learn about your ancestor. Enjoy, Claire."

"Claire?" Justin said aloud. That was Brian's sister but he couldn't imagine her being interested in an art book. In fact he couldn't envision her reading any book at all. With that in mind he started turning the pages.

His eyes grew large as he beheld the colorful plates of the magnificent paintings within the covers of the book. He shut the book with a snap to again look over the binding and covers of the book. A hint of the original bright green binding had now aged into a rich deep forest green. The inside flyleaf had a faded label of its original owner and each color plate, a protective tissue covering. The art book was in itself a work of art.

Noting the copyright date, Justin had a feeling the book was long out of print, making it all the more valuable and the more curious. How did such a book belong to Brian and why would his sister give it to him? Brian never showed any outward interest in art other than Justin's latest projects. And from what Justin recalled of their history, even when things were good between Brian and Claire, she just didn't seem the type to give a book as precious as this to Brian. Justin brought the book to the computer desk.

While waiting for the computer to boot up, Justin continued his exploration of the "Art of Pennsylvania." Keeping in mind the age of the book, Justin handled it with a more gentle hand, using Brian's silver letter opener to flip the pages. "Damn, I've been watching too much of the History Channel lately," Justin mused, remembering that book conservators handled ancient books with cotton gloves so that the oil on their fingers wouldn't damage the pages. "Shit, Brian's right, as always, I should go back to school."

Returning his attention to the computer, Justin let the book fall open as it rested on the desk. The pages automatically opened to the center. The center plate was a portrait of an elegant looking tall man with a poise that reminded Justin of another tall, and at times, elegant man. He read the caption out loud. "John Aidan Brian Kinney 1802-1879 One of Pennsylvania's most prolific and famous artists and landowners."

"Holy fuckin' shit!" Justin shouted to the computer and whatever stick of furniture that cared to listen. "This is amazing; Brian has a famous ancestor. Wow, wait till I show him this." Justin jumped up from the desk and began to do a little 'wait till I show you this,' dance around the loft. Halfway through a pirouette, Justin's sanity returned. Allowing Brian full access to this little tidbit of information at this stage might not be very wise. Gentle Ben, Brian was not. Justin could be risking more than Brian shooting down Justin's little mystery tour. Brian could quite literally piss on the book, if he felt its contents threatened his time space continuum in any way, shape or form. No, a little judicial planning was called for.

Justin sat back down at the desk, calmed his racing heart and picked up the letter opener. Carefully he studied the portrait of Kinney with his artistic eyes. The man looked to be in his late twenties possibly thirty. Justin smiled, how fitting to learn of a Kinney ancestor at about the same age as Brian when they first met. The hair was the same color, the fingers long and sensuous. The stature, regal, another Kinney that mere mortals shouldn't mess with. Justin scanned the pages hoping for further information on Kinney or the artist who painted him but little was there. Justin turned the page, revealing a family portrait of Kinney. In the gutter of the page a dried rose, flat like tissue, with the barest hint of color.

The portrait was typical of the period. Husband standing, in front of him and toward his right, his wife, seated, holding a baby in her arms, an older child standing to her left. Kinney stood stoic, his wife looked almost maudlin, her pretty features hidden behind a blank expression. Very typical, no emotion, except for the fifth person in the portrait, someone who ought not to be there. Standing next to Kinney but slightly apart from the family was a young man. He wore a serene smile and was looking up at Kinney with admiration in his eyes. A favorite art student perhaps, a nephew, a lover? "Focus, Justin, let's not jump to conclusions." Justin turned the page.

Nothing. Nothing further on artist Kinney. He was about to return to the center plate when a piece of paper slipped out between some pages toward the back of the book. "Oh great, I ripped it." With the letter opener, Justin carefully prodded the book open where the paper stuck out. Several yellowed papers slid onto the desk. As if touching a Rosetta Stone, Justin attempted to unfold the notes.

Carefully Justin lifted the first note and opened it. The paper was old but still strong. Justin read the cramped hand with difficulty. It said:

"Dear Jack,

I know you thought you were doing the right thing when you took your son and left. Your father and I were very upset with you. I know Brian has a smart mouth but you should not hit him. Life has not been easy for you, but we all have our trials. Please try to be forgiving and come visit us soon. Your father is not well.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Mother"

Justin studied the paper and frowned. Here was proof of the way Jack Kinney had treated his son. Justin had always had an inkling of what it was like for Brian but the man would never talk about it. It must have been awful.

Justin gingerly opened the next note. It must have been written after Jack's father died. It read:

"Dear Jack,

I was very disappointed that you didn't come home for your father's funeral. I would very much like to see you and your family. I don't know how much longer I'll be around. I hope you and my grandchildren are well. Please come and visit us.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Mother"

It was strange that Jack Kinney wouldn't even have gone to his own father's funeral. The falling out must have been much worse than Justin had first thought. There was one more of these notes. He carefully opened it. It said:

"Dear Jack,

I have been rather ill lately and the doctor doesn't seem to know what's wrong. I have a bad feeling about what is happening to me. In spite of everything that has happened between us, I want you to have a good life so I am sending you the deed to the farm. Maybe some time in the future you and Claire will be able to live here and find the happiness that you both deserve. I won't ask you to visit, as I know you won't.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Mother"

Justin finished the letter and stared at it. It was very strange. There was no mention of Brian, just Claire. Why would his grandmother forget all about Brian and want Jack and Claire to live on the farm? None of the letters were dated so it was hard to tell how old they were. Would Brian have been grown up and successful when that last note was written? Is that why he wasn't mentioned? And what about Joan? There was no mention of her anywhere. Maybe Brian's grandmother didn't like Joan any more than Brian did. Justin had to admit that his brief encounter with her had made him extremely uncomfortable. He knew Brian seemed to detest having to have anything to do with her.

There was one more piece of paper. He opened it slowly noting that it was probably the oldest of the pieces of paper. It was the deed that Jack's mother had said she was sending. Why would she have sent it to Jack before she died? Why had Jack left it in this old book and never claimed the property? There were so many unanswered questions. If Brian had the book and Jack was dead, did that mean that the property now belonged to Brian?

Justin folded up the papers carefully and laid them on the desk. He was about to put them back in the book when he changed his mind. He wanted to find out some more about this. Maybe Brian had family or property that he knew nothing about. Justin decided that he would do some investigating. He took a file folder out of the desk. He thought for a moment before he labeled it "Sunshine". He opened the letters and unfolded the deed placing them flat inside the folder. He closed the folder and placed it in the drawer knowing that Brian would never open his files.

Once that was done he logged on to the internet. He would start by doing a search for John Aidan Brian Kinney. This could prove to be very interesting.

Chapter 2

Justin's search for the elusive John Aidan Brian Kinney was proving more difficult than it should. Other than some vague references to his art, his penchant for painting the landscapes of the Pennsylvanian countryside and his ill fated marriage, little was written about him. All Justin's usual art research sites were useless. "Think, Justin, if he was so famous, why can't I find him?" Scratching an imaginary itch on his nose, Justin absentmindedly typed the name Kinney into the Google search engine box. What came up didn't surprise him. Brian Kinney this and Brian Kinney that, the gay, blah, blah, blah. The gay, GAY!

Justin refocused his search to gay or homosexual artists. BINGO! Kinney started out as a typical artist of the time, married into a socially and financially well off family. His art was looked at as a hobby that would have been put in its proper place after Kinney married and took his rightful place as landowner and head of a powerful Pennsylvania family. His wife was the only offspring of a rich land baron and since women were not allowed to inherit property, it was up to her to marry well. Her husband would then be allowed to pass on the property to his male heir, manage it until his son became of age and reap the rewards of owning the land. If being gay made you a second class citizen now, think of what a scandal it would have caused back then. Especially for a prominent family.

Okay, so what had he learned?

Brian had an ancestor that was an artist, good enough to be written about in an art history book. Said artist might have had some sort of homosexual affair that may have disgraced his family and there may be some property somewhere that may belong to Brian. Lots of maybe's. But what did this have to do with Claire and this book? And it still didn't answer why Brian's Grandmother wanted Jack to live there with Claire and not Brian. It didn't make sense.

Justin decided to put aside his research on Kinney. It did explain why Brian was so talented when it came to advertising. He knew Brian had an eye for color and perspective, it's what made him so good at what he did and why Justin always knew he'd get an honest opinion from Brian when Justin needed a critical eye to look over one of his creations. Brian had art in his genes. And he'd have an artist in his jeans if he'd only come home.

Justin printed out what he had found out about Kinney, the artist, and placed it into his Sunshine file. Feeling tired, Justin shut down the computer, put the kettle on to make some tea and took a quick shower while waiting for the water to boil. In the shower, Justin couldn't help thinking about the one letter about Brian being hit. As bad as it got with his father, Craig never hit Justin. Before Justin came out, he had a loving father, still had a mother who stood by him, and a wonderful, if annoying sister. The total opposite of what Brian had while growing up and still had. No, that's wrong. Brian did have a loving family now, just an unusual family. But he was loved and Brian knew it, even if he didn't admit it.

The whistling of the kettle brought Justin running to the kitchen. With his cup of "Sleepytime" tea, Justin took the art book back to the sofa and began to flip through its pages, this time exploring the back of the book. Close to the appendix, a photograph was stuck to a page. With the flat edge of the letter opener, Justin was able to pry the picture loose without damaging the book. Turning the picture over in his hand, Justin saw a picture of a happy loving young couple, holding hands and smiling brightly for the camera. The date imprinted on the side of the picture said July 4, 1965. The caption written on the bottom read, "Jack and Claire at the beach."

Justin stared at the picture and then read the caption again. There was another Claire. But who was she? Was she Jack's sister? Had she died and Jack had mourned her enough to name his child after her? Justin studied the picture. Jack and Claire didn't look anything alike. But they looked very happy in the picture. Here was another puzzle to add to the Sunshine files. He carefully placed the picture inside the folder and went up the steps to bed.

The next day Justin drove to Harrisburg and went to the state offices there. He spent the day going through information on the Kinney family, including birth and death certificates. He found the location of the property that was listed on the deed. All his research did was create more questions.

For one thing there was no Claire Kinney that he could find, except for Brian's sister who was certainly not the woman in the picture with a very young Jack Kinney. The property on the deed was listed as belonging to Jack Kinney. It had been transferred from his mother to Jack in 1985. That was long after Brian and Claire had been born. Justin wondered why she would choose that moment to give the property to Jack.

And then there was the whole question of who was paying the taxes on the property. Justin had not been able to find that out. He assumed that Brian's grandparents would have paid it while they were both alive, but with the deed tucked away in that book, it didn't seem like Jack would have paid the taxes. Brian had never mentioned that his father owned any property other than the house where Joan now lived. From what Brian had intimated it seemed unlikely that Jack would have money to pay the taxes on the property. He was always hitting Brian up for money and seemed to have drunk any other money he got his hands on.

As Justin drove back to Pittsburgh his mind was full of questions. Was Claire someone that Jack knew before he met Joan? Was he in love with her? They looked so happy in that picture. Brian never once said his own parents were happy. The word happy didn't seem to have been part of the Kinney vernacular. But in that picture Jack had been happy and so had the woman.

And the firstborn child of the Kinneys was named Claire. Justin wondered if Joan knew who the Claire in the photo was. Somehow he doubted it. Could Jack have named his daughter after that woman in the picture?

Justin arrived home a little after nine at night. The message light on the phone was flashing and he listened to what had been recorded. It was from Brian. He would be in tomorrow afternoon at 1:30. He wanted Justin to pick him up at the airport, but if that was a problem he would just catch a cab.

Justin sat at the desk and pulled out all the papers he had photocopied in Harrisburg. He added them to the Sunshine file and stuck it in the drawer of the desk. He had a lot to talk to Brian about. He wondered how he could broach the subject. Brian was as likely to tell him to mind his own business as to welcome the news of what Justin had found.

Justin sighed. He would have to talk to Brian. He had gone about as far as he could on his own. Brian had information that Justin didn't have. He hoped he would be able to get Brian to cooperate so that they could get to the bottom of the mystery.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Okay, spill."

"What?"

"Spill. You pick me up from the airport without so much as a 'how did it go Brian, or I'm hungry, let's go find something to eat, or I'm horny, I missed you, let's hurry up back to the loft and fuck.' Nothing. Nada. Silence. And don't take this the wrong way, Sunshine; silence was never your strong suit. So, spill. What's got you all worried, occupied and otherwise distracted? "

"You're not going to like it."

"Since when has what I like or dislike ever got in the way of your mouth? Tell me, I'll never have a moment's peace until you do."

"It's kind of involved and I need to show you some stuff. We may also have to go out of town."

"Justin, I just got back."

"Not fly anywhere, we may have to drive into the woods."

"Not with my Vette, we don't. Okay, quit glaring at me. You going to tell me about 'your mystery?'"

"Yeah."

During the drive back to the loft as well as on the ride up in the elevator, Justin told Brian all about the book, about John Aidan Brian Kinney, the letters, the deed and the photograph. Justin silently stood back, bracing himself for the explosion a la Brian to hit.

"Justin, are you going to stand there in the elevator all day or are you coming inside?"

"Um."

"Get your ass in here; show me your file and the book."

Three hours and two Thai takeout dinners later, Brian closed the book and set it on the coffee table beside Justin's Sunshine file.

"Fuck, me!"

"My pleasure."

"Tie a knot in it, little boy. This is amazing, and you found out all of this in two days."

"You're taking this remarkably well. I expected more shouting, at least a growl or two."

"Maybe your annoying maturity is rubbing off on me. Seriously, I am curious to find out about who this Claire is and see if we can find out more about the artist, Kinney. But I'm really interested in the farm. I think I remember going there as a child. I seem to remember this huge property with a small stream running through it. I remember apple trees and sunflowers in the garden."

"Sounds so nice. Do you think the farm exists?"

"Haven't a clue. I don't remember Jack or Joan saying anything about the farm and there certainly was no mention of it in Jack's will, not that he had a real one. All he left us was debt, which I took care of. I bet Joan has no clue about the farm or the rest. I don't think she was with us when Jack took me there. I don't remember Claire either. He called it a boy's day out. We got in his car and drove for hours. We only did it a couple of times. The last time, I remember playing near the stream. I was real little, couldn't have been much older than Gus is now. I slipped and fell in, someone pulled me out. Another boy. I think he was older than me but I was always tall for my age so I don't know. He asked me if I was okay, then took me back to the house. Then he ran back into the woods. I got my clothes all wet and dirty which made Jack angry. He yelled at me and when I tried to explain, he..."

"He hit you."

"Yeah."

"Brian, I'm sorry."

"Sorry is bullshit. I mean it this time, Justin. You have nothing to be sorry for. It was Jack. Something turned him into an angry man. I never knew the Jack that's in that picture. I always thought it was something I did or something I didn't do. Maybe if we figure this out I might find out what really happened. Find out who Jack really was."

"Brian, what if we find out something horrible."

"I'll take my chances. Can't be any worse than when I was growing up. Besides, I've seen you when you're all butch and in protective mode. No one would dare mess with us if you're with me."

"Brian, that has got to be the sweetest thing you've ever said to me."

"I don't do sweet."

"Then how about you do me. Get your fine ass in bed, Kinney, and make like a bottom boy. This butch wants his bitch."

Brian stared into Justin's deep blue eyes. It wasn't often when Justin made his true nature apparent and even rarer when Brian welcomed it. Tonight the gods were shining down upon both of them. Brian smiled softly then gently thumbed Justin's cheek. Placing a chaste kiss on Justin's lips, Brian whispered, "Could you clean up this stuff then lock up the loft? I want to take a quick shower." Justin responded with a nod and his own smile. Both men got up from the cushions. Justin headed for the loft door as Brian went to shower. Within 15 minutes they met in the bedroom.

Brian, still damp from his shower and draped only in a deep wine colored towel, lay seductively on the duvet. Justin slowly removed his clothes, letting them fall in a pile at the foot of the bed. Skin still golden tan from his time in the L.A. sun, Justin reminded Brian of a young lion on the hunt for his first kill. Brian waited for the pounce.

Instead of a ravenous lion chewing on his lips, Brian received kisses softer than butterfly wings. He felt his jaw and neck lovingly nibbled and his collarbone licked. Justin slowly worked his way down, sucking on each dark nipple causing Brian to arch up, feeding more of his breast into Justin's warm mouth.

Justin continued his descent, rimming Brian's navel then following the dark treasure trail to Brian's proud hard aching cock. "Fuck!" Brian screamed out as Justin sucked down Brian's entire length in one swoop. Justin paid homage to Brian's infamous organ, keeping Brian on the edge of the precipice. "Please." The soft plea escaped Brian's lips as he spread his thighs wantonly, bending his knees to allow Justin access to the tight pucker. Justin released Brian's cock then suckled each ball, real and otherwise. He then focused on Brian's twitching hole.

Laving the tight gateway, Justin made sure Brian was relaxed and well prepared. As eager as Justin was to fuck Brian into the mattress, he needed to show restraint. Justin eased one spit slick finger into Brian's incredibly tight hole, rocking it slowly in and out. Before venturing a second finger, Justin reached for the lube and condoms. Slicking two fingers and Brian's anus, Justin opened Brian's hole, gently scissoring his fingers. Brian relaxed around Justin's fingers then began to fuck himself on them. Justin added a third finger. When sufficiently stretched and receptive, Justin donned a condom, adding more lube then pushed his way into Brian. Both men moaned loudly as Brian adjusted to the fullness. Justin slowly retreated then slid back. Brian wrapped his long legs around Justin digging his heels into Justin's ass to encourage harder penetration. Justin began to fuck Brian in earnest.

The sweat poured off each man as they felt themselves nearing climax. Justin grunted with each thrust, his balls slapping against Brian's ass.

"God, Justin, close!"

Justin felt Brian tighten around him then explode, shooting his cum up onto Justin's chest. Justin's orgasm triggered by Brian's, he filled his condom. He collapsed onto Brian's chest squishing the cum between them. After calming their racing hearts, Justin rolled off of Brian, disposed of his condom and brought a warm damp cloth to clean off his exhausted lover. Returning the cloth into the bathroom, Justin snuggled against Brian covering the two of them with the warm duvet. Brian in an unusual display of emotion deeply kissed Justin then buried his head into Justin's neck. Soon, Justin heard the soft wheeze of Brian's snores. Smiling to himself and very much in butch protective mode, Justin encircled Brian with his arms and fell asleep.

Chapter 3

Brian spent the rest of the week finishing up accounts that needed his attention at work. He had promised Justin they could try to find the farm on the weekend and he would make good on that promise, no matter what fucked up part of the Kinney family history they might find out about.

Saturday morning they set out bright and early in the black Jeep that Brian had insisted on renting. He had made it abundantly clear that the Corvette was not going over gravel roads where stones would chip away at the exterior. Justin had sighed and agreed. Sometimes Brian was so fucking anal, and yet, sometimes that was a good thing, like the other night.

"What the fuck are you thinking about?" Brian demanded as they made their way onto the interstate.

"The night you got back from Chicago," Justin said with a grin.

"Enjoy your moment on top, little boy," Brian snarked. "It's back to the bottom for you."

"I don't mind. Bottoming has its own set of pleasures." Justin smiled.

"Yeah, it does," Brian agreed with his own smile.

They looked at each other and marveled at how far they had come in their relationship. Brian shook his head and concentrated on the road.

"Are you sure you know where the fuck we're going?" Brian asked after a while.

"I was hoping you'd recognize the turn-off," Justin replied with a straight face.

"Recognize the turn-off!" Brian bellowed. "It's the fucking interstate! Every turn-off is exactly like the last one."

"Don't get your knickers in a knot," Justin said calmly. Brian glared at him. "We want exit 91. But I do hope you will start to recognize where we are because I don't have an exact location for the farm, just some lot numbers."

"Fuck! This is going to be a wild goose chase," Brian said shaking his head. "I should have known better than to listen to you."

"I'm always right," Justin said confidently. "Wait and see."

"And when we're lost and starving in the wilderness, I'm going to fuck you until you can't walk."

"That's some plan for being lost in the wilderness."

"I have my priorities straight," Brian stated.

"And then you can carry me when I can't walk anymore," Justin chuckled.

"Yeah."

"Oh, next exit will be 91," Justin said.

Brian pulled off at that exit and Justin told him to go left over the bridge. Brian hoped Justin knew what the fuck he was doing.

"Do you recognize anything?" Justin asked after a bit.

"I was fucking five years old! And I'm not even sure there was an interstate that we took to get here."

"That's a big help," Justin said studying his map. "I think we're going the right way. There's a little town up ahead. "We could stop and ask if anyone knows the Kinney farm."

"As opposed to driving aimlessly about for hours and hours?" Brian asked sarcastically.

"Brian," Justin said looking thoughtful, "why didn't you ever find the picture and letters in that book?"

"I never looked at the fucking thing."

"Why?"

"After Jack's funeral, Mom handed it to me. She said Jack used to look at it every now and then. It always pissed her off that he would never talk about it. She never looked at it either, just prayed for Jack's soul, old reprobate that he was. She wanted every reminder of Jack out of the house, so she told me to take the book."

"But you never opened it."

"I didn't like reminders of Jack anymore than she did," Brian stated. "I brought it home and stuck it on the shelf. I intended to throw it out. Don't know why I didn't."

"You were meant to take this journey. I just know it. Otherwise that book would have been long gone."

Brian stared at Justin for a second until his eyes had to refocus on the road. He knew he would never be taking this journey without Justin. There were so many journeys in life that Justin had led him on.

"Let's ask here," Brian said pulling up to the general store in the little town of Bridgeton. He hoped they were doing the right thing.

Brian pulled the Jeep into a dusty parking space in the front of the "The General Store." Yup, that was the name over the door, The General Store. He and Justin jumped out of the Jeep, stretching the kinks out after their long drive. Taking a deep breath, they walked into the store together.

The store's interior matched its exterior, looking as if it had popped out of a Norman Rockwell painting. The floor was thick pine, darkened and worn with time and the footfalls from decades of customers. The wooden bins, neatly stacked with produce and daily essentials. On the counter, displayed in big glass jars, candy. To the delight of children young and old, candy and old fashioned bubble gum. One jar held wooden sticks, on the end of each stick, about three inches long, were brightly colored crystals in shades of red, blue, purple and green.

"Excuse me, what's this? Is it candy?" Justin's eyes sparkled as he gazed at the candy.

"It's rock..."

"Rock candy," Brian answered just before the clerk. "I remember, we stopped here. It was hot and Jack wanted some beer. I saw the rock candy. I was afraid to ask Jack but I guess I was staring at it and the woman behind the counter asked me what was my favorite color. I said blue and she handed me a stick with the blue crystals. I was surprised that Jack let me have the candy. It took me hours to eat it because it was so sweet. That was the last time we were here. I fell in the stream later that day; we never came back."

"My mother," the clerk, about ten years older than Brian, ventured. "The woman was probably my mother. She always gave free samples. You're not from here?"

"No," Justin answered for Brian whom seemed deep in thought. "No, my friend may have family here. He visited a farm near here as a child. Do you know if a family named Kinney lives around here?"

"Kinney, Kinney, nope doesn't ring a bell and I know all the families around here for thirty miles."

"Oh, well, thank you. I guess they moved away. Brian, we drove all the way here for nothing."

"Wait, my Mom's out back taking inventory. Maybe she remembers. I'll be right back." The clerk turned and went into the back of the store. Justin watched Brian walk to the front door. He could see Brian's chest rise and fall as Brian seemed to struggle to breathe.

"Brian, are you okay?" Justin softly asked, knowing that this was not a time to smother Brian but allow him the time to process his memories.

"I'm fine, Sunshine. It's just I have so little memory of anything good in my life. The few times we came here were good."

"Do you want to go home?"

"No, we came this far, we'll see it through. At the very least, we've had a nice drive out of the city. Let's see if she recognizes the name."

At that moment the store owner came out from behind the swinging door that led to the storeroom.

"Hi, I'm Charlotte. My son says you visited my store as a boy and that you may have family around here."

"Yes, ma'am. I think my grandparents may have had a farm near here. My father and I came into this store a couple of times. But it was a long time ago; I must have been about 4 or 5."

"Well, young man I have a pretty good memory for names and I do recall a family named Kinney. Matter of fact they were a bit legendary."

"Really?" Justin's ears perked up and he leaned on the counter.

"Well, yes but not in a good way, but not bad either. I know that sounds confusing. Come out back with me and I'll explain. Have you boys ever tasted Birch Beer? It's similar to Root Beer. Here ya go. Now let's sit out here and I'll tell you an interesting story."

About an hour later, Brian and Justin climbed back into the Jeep and continued on their journey. A half a mile from where Charlotte told them the farm was, Brian pulled off to the shoulder and turned off the ignition.

"Brian, we're almost there, why are we stopping?"

"Justin, I need a minute. Run this by me again. From the beginning."

"Okay. First, what we read and surmised about your ancestor, the artist Kinney, seems to be true. He was famous for a while until he had an affair with a man. There was a scandal and he left the area with his friend. His wife stayed and managed the property until her son became of age and took over. It appears that your Grandfather was Kinney's grandson. Your grandfather worked the land and was fairly successful. He married your grandmother and had a family, one of which was Jack. From all accounts Jack was a normal guy who met a young woman named Claire Anderson. She and Charlotte grew up together but became estranged when Claire and Jack fell in love. By that time the farm was starting to fail and your Grandfather had to sell off bits of it. Jack left home to look for work in the city and I guess that's where he met Joan. Charlotte seemed to think that Jack had intended to come back for Claire but he never did."

"Yeah, Jack knocked up Joan and the rest, as they say, is history. But that doesn't explain how this Claire Anderson got the farm."

"Brian, think about the one letter your Grandmother wrote when she thought she was dying. She always thought that Jack would come back, take over the farm and live with Claire. Maybe Claire took over the farm while she waited for Jack."

"She's gonna have a long wait."

"Brian, cut the snark. Charlotte said that Claire works hard to keep the farm running, what's left of it. You ready to meet her now?"

"Ready as I'll ever be." Brian started the Jeep and drove to the road that led to the Anderson Farm.

Chapter 4

They drove along the dirt road studying the mailboxes looking for the name Anderson. Most of the boxes were old and battered, names long since worn off. Suddenly Brian turned into a driveway and stopped the Jeep.

"What's wrong?" Justin asked. "Do you think we've missed it?"

Brian stared up the driveway at a brick house with a large addition on the back. Trees lined the path to it and a huge maple stood to one side.

"I climbed that tree," Brian said proudly.

"What? You mean this is it? This is the farm?"

Brian nodded. "I think it was on that last trip when Jack brought me here … before I fell in the stream. I was trying to get up into the tree but I was too little. My grandfather came out and lifted me onto that big branch, the one to the left. I climbed around on the branch and ventured a little bit higher. It was scary being up so high, but I loved it. I remember waving to Jack who was drinking a beer. When wasn't he drinking a beer? I don't know how long I stayed up there but I remember I wished I could have a treehouse and I could live up there high above everybody. Nobody would be able to find me … or hurt me."

"Just like the loft?" Justin asked.

Brian glanced at him and stuck his tongue in his cheek. "Maybe," he admitted.

"So, are we going to the house, or do you want to turn around and go home?"

Brian considered for a minute. "We came all the way here to get some answers. We need to see it through."

"Then let's go," Justin said touching Brian's arm in a gesture of reassurance.

Brian put the car in gear and drove the last bit up to the house. They climbed out of the Jeep and looked around. Suddenly a dog came bounding out from behind the barn barking loudly. Brian and Justin both jumped and stepped back towards the Jeep ready to get inside if the dog proved to be vicious.

"Beau!" a female voice called sharply. The dog immediately stopped barking and ran over to the woman who had just emerged from the screen door at the back of the house. A beautiful octagonal gazebo had been added to the house. It would be a great place to sit in the evenings on a warm night. The woman patted the dog and stepped closer to where Brian and Justin stood. "He's not going to bite you," she said. "He's just protective when strangers appear. Come over and I'll introduce you."

Warily the two men approached. Beau smelled them and started wagging his tail. If these people were acceptable to his mistress, then they were acceptable to him too.

Justin leaned down and held out his hand to the dog. Once Beau had smelled it he started licking Justin's face as the man rubbed the fur around his neck. "I'm Justin Taylor," Justin said looking up at the woman. "And this is Brian Kinney."

Justin watched the woman's face and her sharp intake of breath as she heard Brian's name. It obviously meant something to her. "I'm Claire Anderson," the woman said extending her hand to Brian. Brian shook it somewhat hesitantly. "Are you Jack's son?"

Brian felt the petite hand in his start to tremble as he answered, "Yes ma'am."

"I think I need to sit down." Brian clasped Claire about her waist and guided her to a grouping of chairs that were arranged in the screened gazebo.

"Forgive me; I'm not usually this emotional."

"I'm sure this is a shock."

"Yes, although Charlotte called to tell me you were on your way. Seeing you in person, well..."

"I know. Mrs. Anderson, if you don't mind, could you explain all this to me. I remember this farm as a child even though I only came here a few times. I don't remember you. Are we related in some way?"

"Brian, may I call you Brian?"

"Yes."

"Then please call me Claire or Miss Anderson, if you like. I never married. I'll try to answer all your questions but please tell me something first. Jack, your father, how is he?"

"Miss, Claire, I'm sorry, he's ..."

"Dead, he's dead, isn't he?"

"Yes, I'm sorry."

"When? How?"

"Almost two years ago, lung cancer."

"I'm so sorry."

"Don't be. Look, I won't pretend and tell you how wonderful he was or what a great father he was. He was a mean, angry man and he took it out on me and my mother. I came here looking for this man." Brian pulled out the photograph of Jack and Claire, smiling together on the beach and placed it in her hand. "That's the man I want to know about. And why he..." At that point Brian got up and stormed off into the woods, leaving Justin and Claire sitting alone.

"Miss Anderson, are you okay?"

"Yes, thank you, Justin. It's just all overwhelming. For most of my life I've been waiting for Jack to come back, to claim this house, claim me. Now to find out he's dead and he has another family, it's a bit much to take in. Will Brian be all right?"

"Yes. Give him a few minutes. He likes to think he's a big he-man, no emotions, that nothing gets to him. But he's just the opposite; he just doesn't like to show it."

"That's just the opposite of the Jack I knew. When we were together he was kind, sensitive and loving. He hated to leave and he swore he was coming back. I knew about the visits. It hurt that he never asked for me. I never knew what happened. I thought I did something. His parents, especially Jack's mother, treated me like I was their daughter even when..."

"When what?"

"I think we better wait for Brian to come back. This may take some time. Let's go inside. I have some iced tea or milk, if you prefer, and a fresh batch of tollhouse cookies. It must have been some drive from Pittsburgh." Justin answered with a growl from his stomach and a blush to his cheeks.

"That settles it. Milk and cookies for now and I have a pot roast planned for dinner. I have a feeling we may need something hearty to help us get through this."

"Yes ma'am!" Justin exclaimed with a smile as he followed Claire indoors to her kitchen.

Out near the stream Brian sat on a boulder that was warm from the sun. Puffing on a cigarette, he pondered the thought of getting back in the Jeep and making a beeline back home. He didn't need any of this bullshit. He certainly didn't need to hear what a great guy Jack was from someone who knew nothing about his background. What he needed was Justin to tell him that everything was going to be all right. He half expected Justin to trot after him but Justin knew Brian needed some space to let all this settle. Making sure the cigarette butt was completely snubbed out, Brian pushed himself off the boulder and walked back to the house.

Expecting to be greeted by a concerned bundle o' blond, Brian was a little pissed when he saw an empty porch and heard his blond's giggles from inside the house.

"Justin?"

"In here, Brian."

"Please come through, Brian, we're in the kitchen."

Brian opened the screen door and caught a whiff of the homemade cookies that his concerned boyfriend was scarfing down with gusto. Following the heavenly aroma, Brian discovered Justin sitting at the kitchen table, cookie in hand and Claire peeling potatoes.

"Please join us, Brian. Would you like some cookies? I've put on a pot of coffee. Justin says you prefer coffee."

"Oh, he does, does he?" Brian glared at his boyfriend who was innocently looking up at him and munching on another cookie. "Thank you, Claire. I could do with some coffee."

"Help yourself to a cookie."

"I don't eat..." Just then, Justin gave Brian a look that told him to be nice. "They look good." Brian picked up a cookie, broke it into smaller pieces and began to nibble on the smallest piece. Smiling, he looked up at Claire, "It's delicious."

"Thank you, Brian. Now, I think you came here for some answers. Justin has already told me what you two have found out. I can tell you what Jack meant to me but I'm not sure you'll like hearing it. No child likes to hear about their parents' sordid past, the mistakes they've made. We all like to think our parents are perfect or near perfect."

"Claire, if it'll help. I have done quite a lot in the past that I'm not very proud of; I don't think you can shock me. And as I told Justin before we started this scavenger hunt into the Kinney past, it can't be any worse than when I was growing up."

Claire studied the young men sitting at her table, took a deep breath and told her story.

"About the time when that picture was taken, we were very happy, making plans for our future. I just graduated from high school and we were going to get married. But the farm had started to fail. Your grandfather held out as long as he could but he had to sell off parcels of land to pay the mortgage and the farm hands. Even then the money was tight. My father worked one of the biggest parcels; we lived off the land and sold the extra. Our acreage was just beyond the stream adjacent to this house. I spent most of my days here. Jack wanted to go to Pittsburgh. There were a lot of factories springing up, all hiring. Jack swore he'd make it rich, come back and buy up the land his father sold off. We spent the summer together and then in the fall, he left for the big city. It was the last time I saw him." Claire paused and took a sip of coffee to fortify herself before she went on.

"He wrote his parents every week and included a note for me. We all waited each Friday for his letters. They came without fail. By Thanksgiving I found out I was going to have a baby. Jack's baby. You can imagine how I felt, what a scandal it would cause. Just because the town's population is separated by miles of farmland and woods doesn't mean we don't know the comings and goings of each family. My family was mortified and they wanted to send me away. Your grandparents invited me to stay with them. They missed Jack and would embrace his child, they insisted. I was relieved to have a home but I didn't want Jack to find out about the child. He was working so hard and sending money back to his parents. He didn't need to be burdened. Eventually my mother came around and gave whatever she could to your grandmother. Your grandmother was a sweet woman and she lived up to her name, which was quite a feat considering how stubborn the Kinney men were. And I get the impression that you uphold that little tradition."

"So I've been told," Brian snorted out.

"Excuse me, Claire, but what were Brian's grandparent's names?"

"Your grandfather was a tall bear of a man. You favor him in height and in coloring although you could stand to gain some weight."

"My weight is just fine. What was his name?"

"Aidan."

"Brian, like the artist and your middle name!"

"Yes, that makes sense. The artist was John Aidan Brian Kinney. Aidan named his son John, but we all called him Jack. Jack named you Brian Aidan."

"My grandmother?"

"Patience."

"I think I've been very patient."

"No, no, Patience, that was her name. She was a tall woman, almost as tall as Aidan and thin. Long fingers and surprisingly strong. You wouldn't think she was so strong being so thin but she was. Bet you're like that too."

"He is, very strong."

"Need to be to keep up with you. Claire, you said you were pregnant and that Jack didn't know."

"I wouldn't allow Patience to tell him. I figured he'd make good on his promise and come home after he saved up enough money. My son John was born in May of 1966. Jack kept writing to us. He was gone almost three years when the letters stopped. At first we thought he got too busy to write, then we got a letter from a different part of town. He moved, then he moved again. Eventually they stopped coming."

Brian picked up another cookie and took a big bite, savoring the big chunks of chocolate. He also took a gulp of the strong coffee and filled in the pieces of Jack's life for Claire.

"Somewhere along the line, Jack met Joan and she got pregnant. Her parents were strict Catholics; it was a shotgun wedding."

"And you were born?"

"No, my sister, Claire."

"He named your sister after me?"

"I suppose he did. He must have loved you very much. He certainly never showed any love toward Joan or me. And I never met anyone in the family with the name Claire. Most people name their children after someone and there isn't any other Claire in the family."

"Brian, where do you come up with this stuff? Gus isn't named after anyone."

"Sure he is Sunshine, didn't you name him after your stuffed bear?"

"Who's Gus?"

"My son."

"Oh, I thought you and Justin are, uh..."

"Partners. It's a long story which may require a lot more cookies to get through. Let's get this one over with first. My sister is two years older than me. So she was born about the time Jack's letters stopped coming. I always knew he loved her more than me, now I know why. Your son, where is he?"

"He's working; he'll be home for dinner. He's an architect. I think he gets his creativity from the artist."

"That's where I think Brian gets his from. Brian's in advertising; he owns an ad agency. Do you think John will be okay with all of this? And us?"

"Justin, I don't give a fuck whether John is okay with this or not! Excuse me."

This time Justin followed Brian out the back door, into the yard.

"Brian! That wasn't very nice."

"Nice?! Nice? I just found out I have an older brother, who probably will punch my lights out when he finds out what a fucking bastard he has for a father. And I find out that my sister, the cun...."

"Brian, don't."

"That my dear sister is named for Jack's long lost lover. Who, by the way, is a very lovely woman and in an alternate universe could have been my mother and I wouldn't have grown up to be such an asshole! For Christ's sake, Justin, what the fuck am I doing here?"

Brian turned and stood facing away from Justin, shoulders slumped so low, looking like a sad little boy. Justin watched the shoulders shake, slowly, he approached Brian.

"Brian, we'll go home. You found out about Claire, that's enough for now. We can come back some other time." Brian sniffled a couple of times then rubbed the tears from his eyes before turning to face his lover who by now, was in full butch protective mode.

"I'm sorry I lost it back there. We should go back in, I need to apologize."

"You sure?"

"Yeah, I'm sure." Brian held out his hand for Justin. With Justin's hand firmly clasped in his, Brian straightened his shoulders, inhaled deeply, and the two headed back into Claire's kitchen.

Chapter 5

Justin and Brian wandered down to the stream. Brian had apologized to Claire for running out on her. He found all this drama very hard to stomach. When Justin had suggested they go home, he had been ready to do that, more than ready. But then something had stopped him. He had come all this way to find out about his family and some part of him wanted to know it all. He had already learned some amazing things.

Jack had another son. He had a half-brother. He had always known Jack liked the ladies. How many times had he heard his parents fighting about where Jack had been, who he had been with? Joan didn't want the old bastard but she didn't want anyone else to have him either. Had to keep up appearances, you know.

And then there was Claire, a kind and gracious lady, the kind of woman that Brian would have longed for in a mother. Jack had done her wrong, like he had so many others, Brian included. But she didn't seem bitter, just disappointed. She would have been happy for Jack to have come back even after all these years. Brian wondered if she would have even recognized her Jack in the man that his father had become.

Brian sat on the big rock watching the sun as it started its descent towards the horizon. Justin sat between his legs and periodically Brian rested his chin on the top of the blond head. Justin was the only constant in this shifting drama. Brian held on tight.

Claire had said they would eat late because it took John a long time to drive home from the city. He often worked on Saturdays and would be there some time before eight o'clock. Apparently he was quite a successful architect, but he had never married and continued to live with his mother on the farm. He loved the property and had poured a lot of money back into it over the years. Brian found it hard to envision living with your mother as you approached forty, even if your mother was Claire.

"Let's go climb your tree," Justin suggested suddenly.

"Are you fucking nuts?"

"Come on. It'll be fun," Justin said standing up and tugging on Brian's hand. He hoped that might pull Brian out of the melancholy that seemed to have enveloped him.

"Justin…"

"Come on. I want to see where you would have built your treehouse."

Brian was about to tell Justin to fuck off when he thought better of it. Justin's strength and support would be needed when John arrived, and he and Brian met for the first time. Brian knew he could never face it on his own. He allowed Justin to pull him up and they made their way to the tree beside the house. They could see Claire in the kitchen putting the finishing touches on her pot roast.

"Give me a boost," Justin said looking up at the branch.

Brian made a cup of his hands and boosted Justin onto the branch. Justin's lovely ass was right in his face as he did so, and he felt his dick grow hard as he held Justin's backside making sure he had purchase on the branch. Then he reluctantly let go.

"Come on up," Justin said with a smile as he situated himself on the branch, his feet dangling down. "The weather's great up here," Justin giggled.

Brian found a spot he could wedge his foot into and with a mighty grunt he propelled himself up beside Justin. He wiggled around until he was sitting beside his lover. Justin's hand went around Brian's waist and he leaned in for a kiss.

"Happy now?" Brian asked.

"Very," Justin grinned.

"It's not nearly as far from the ground as I remembered," Brian observed looking around.

"You were five," Justin reminded him. "Gus would love it up here."

"Yeah," Brian sighed. He was worried about meeting John. He couldn't decide if he wanted the guy to be nice and then he could have the brother he had often wished for. Or, John could be an asshole like him, and he could go home never wanting to see these people again.

A big black Lincoln Navigator slowed at the entrance to the driveway and then turned in. This had to be John. Brian drew in a breath and watched from his vantage point in the tree. The Navigator pulled up beside the Jeep and a tall, thin man got out. He looked questioningly at the Jeep and then headed for the house not seeing Brian and Justin in the tree.

"Mother," he called, "whose car is that?" He disappeared into the house.

Brian dropped down from the tree. Their brief escape into Neverneverland was obviously over. Justin slid down and Brian caught him as he landed. That earned Brian a big kiss.

"Excuse me!" said a strange and somewhat annoyed voice from behind them. "My mother said we had company. Dinner's ready."

"Thanks," said Justin taking Brian's hand and leading the man towards the back door of the house.

Brian allowed himself to be led, finding it difficult to drag his eyes away from the other man, his brother. They did have some similarities. They both had Jack's nose and they were tall and Brian wasn't sure but he thought the eyes might be the same too. This man, however, didn't seem the least bit happy to see them. Brian wondered what Claire had told him.

When they all were in the kitchen Claire took a deep breath and said, "John, I want you to meet Jack's son. This is your half-brother, Brian Kinney."

"What?" John asked looking from his mother to Brian and back again. "Brother?"

Brian extended his hand, but John just stared at it.

"Jackie," Claire said using the affectionate nickname she had always called him and putting her hand on his shoulder. He shrugged it off and silently marched out the door. They all stared after him. When there was no further sound from outside Claire seemed to relax. "Thank God he didn't get in the car and drive away. He needs some time to absorb what he was just told."

"He never knew … about Jack?" Brian asked.

"He knew Jack was his father, and I always said Jack would come back for us some day, but he never knew about the other family."

Brian realized he was 'the other family'. "Should I go after him?" he asked tentatively.

"He'll be down by the stream," Claire said. "Go talk to him. Dinner can wait."

Reluctantly Brian went out the door. He fucking hated this kind of emotion. But what could he do? He made his way down to the stream and saw John sitting on the same rock that he had occupied earlier in the day.

"Hey," Brian said lamely as he approached.

"Leave me alone."

Brian debated doing just that. He could get in the Jeep and they could be back at the loft in a few hours. He knew somehow that that wouldn't be a good idea even though that's what he would love to do, leave all this family shit and turmoil right here where it belonged.

"I fell in this creek when I was a little boy," Brian said by way of conversation.

John looked up at him and frowned searching for a memory. "How old were you?"

"About five," Brian said. "It was the last time that Jack ever brought me here."

"Jack! That was fucking Jack? I pulled you from the stream that day and took you back to the house. I ran away and hid behind the barn when you started to cry and called for your father. I watched him whip you but good. He scared the shit out of me."

"That was dear old dad," Brian said sarcastically.

"That was Jack? But … how? How could that asshole who beat up a little kid be the man my mother described as my father?"

"I think he changed … a lot … after he left here."

"Fuck!" John said shaking his head. "I actually saw my father that day … and I didn't have a fucking clue."

"I guess I should thank you for pulling me out of that stream," Brian said extending his hand once again. This time John took it and looked into Brian's eyes, eyes that matched his own.

"Maybe I should have let you drown," John said.

"Maybe you should have," Brian admitted.

John's eyebrows arched up at that statement and his face softened a bit. "Mother will be having a fit because her dinner will be burnt. We better go back."

"Sure," Brian said as he followed John back to the house.

The reluctant brothers sauntered back to the house. Of course, Brian's saunter was well perfected, whereas big brother John's still needed work. Brian smirked as the two fell into an easy rhythm, swaggering their way to the door.

"What?" John asked, seeing the smirk pasted on Brian's face.

"We kinda walk the same."

"And if we're both left handed then we probably jerk off the same, doesn't mean we're going to be best buds and hang out together."

Brian stopped abruptly, his smirk becoming more evil. Then as if cruising a hot trick, Brian stared at John, looking him over, up and down, stopping at a spot on his shoulder. "Don't need to jerk off." Brian mumbled. Then louder, "And if that chip on your shoulder gets any bigger, you'll become a hunchback. Believe me, I'm an expert on chips."

"Oh yeah? You gonna knock it off me?"

"Nope." Brian was very aware he carried his own set of chips that he was still working on. He had no business working on anyone else's.

John's hardened expression softened again as he began to realize that Brian might not be the threat he initially thought he would be. "Who knocked the big one off your shoulder?"

"That little blond in there with your mother. And if we don't get into the house soon, there won't be any dinner left for us to eat."

The brothers hurried inside.

***************************************

"Well, I see you're both alive and no blood was shed. I suppose I should be grateful. Now, go wash up, the both of you, then sit, before my dinner is ruined."

John and Brian looked convincingly contrite as John showed Brian where he could wash up. Claire winked at Justin as he helped to set the table. Justin gave Claire the thumbs up sign.

Dinner was quiet, the small talk was limited to the artist Kinney and how Justin's interest in art sparked this journey into the Kinney family past. The implication of Kinney's homosexual affair and the obvious out and proud way Brian and Justin conducted themselves fascinated Claire. John was also quite curious but remained stoic.

"Brian, I hope you don't mind me asking, you and Justin are...what is the correct term?"

"We're partners."

"Partners, thank you. You mentioned you have a son? Uh, how can that be?"

"The short version? My best friend, Lindsay, from college wanted to have children. I made a donation."

"And her husband agreed to this?"

"Her husband doesn't have the necessary equipment. Mel, Lindsay's partner, is a woman."

"Oh dear. This is a bit confusing."

"It gets better. Michael, my other best friend, fathered a child for Melanie and he just got married to his partner, Ben."

"You must lead an interesting life."

"You don't know the half of it!" Justin interjected.

"Did Jack know about all of this?"

"He found out I'm gay shortly before he died. We rarely spoke and when we did it was only when he needed money." Brian noticed the wince from Claire then quickly added. "He did get to meet Gus. He seemed genuinely happy to meet his grandson. Joan, on the other hand, is convinced that I'm going straight to hell and bringing Justin along with me. I corrupted the poor lad at the tender age of seventeen."

"Brian, you didn't have to corrupt me, I would have done that on my own. Claire, I was lucky. Brian was my first and even though he doesn't like to hear me say this, he was very kind and gentle with me. I'll never forget that. No matter what happens between us, I can never forget."

Justin's sentiment was not wasted on Brian. Their rocky beginning and past notwithstanding, they had to admit their connection would never fade. Justin reached for Brian's hand and gave it a little squeeze. Claire nodded with understanding, her mind going back to that summer when Jack was kind and gentle with her. She understood the connection.

"Your son lives with his mother?"

"Yes, he does. I..." Brian hesitated, hating all this soul searching sentimentality. Sucking it up, he continued. "I have a picture of Gus, if you'd like to see him."

"Yes, I'd like to, very much."

Brian removed his wallet from his pocket and took out several pictures. The one of him holding Gus the night he was born and another recent photo. The picture of Jack holding Brian as a baby slipped out from between them and fell in front of Claire. Snatching it up before Brian could, Claire stared at the photo.

"You and Jack?" Brian nodded. Forty years of tears began their descent down Claire's face. The emotionally stunted and embarrassed brothers who had no idea what to do. Justin got up and brought a nearby box of tissues to the table then gave Claire a hug, holding her until she was able to compose herself.

"I'm sorry, Claire; I guess this wasn't a good idea." Brian started, not knowing the right words of comfort.

"Brian, sorry is bulldinky! Jack and I both made mistakes. Instead of being honest with each other, we hid the truth. By doing so we made a lot of people suffer. We can't undo the past but we can try to make the future better. I have no intention of inserting my way into your life and I suspect that your intentions are the same. You were curious about your roots and I don't blame you. My concern is with John. I know this has been a shock for you Brian but think of how this is affecting John. John, I will respect your wishes. You are my son and my first priority. If you don't want me to pursue a friendship with Brian, I won't. If you want to get to know him better, I'll support that too."

"You're very lucky to have a mother like Claire, John. Joan, let's just say that if Joan learns any of this, she'd be in the nearest church on her knees saying a novena. I'm not here to mess up your life; I just wanted to know why Jack was so angry all the time."

"How noble of you." John, who had remained silent for most of the 'this is your life, Brian Kinney, show,' finally spoke up. "Aren't you forgetting something?"

"I don't know what you mean."

"This farm."

"What about it?"

"It's yours."

"Mine? What the fuck are you talking about?"

"Brian! Language." Claire and Justin spouted out in unison. Brian dramatically sighed and rolled his eyes. "What do you mean the farm's mine?"

"The deed. And Aidan's will. The farm and the land were passed on to Jack when Aidan died. You are Jack's legitimate heir. Therefore the farm is yours." John got up and walked to the refrigerator. Pulling out a beer for himself, he offered one to Brian, who accepted with a nod. John shut the fridge door and plopped back into his chair. He laughed at the look of indignation on Justin's baby face. "Sorry, I didn't think you were old enough to drink." Brian, who nearly shot his beer out via his nose, coughed down a laugh. Justin remained silent and highly insulted. Brian and John couldn't help themselves and burst out laughing. Justin, pulling 'a Mikey' crossed his arms in front of his chest and huffed.

"Justin, why don't we leave these two cretins to their beer? Besides the cookies, I made an apple pie earlier today. How about the two of us have a piece with some vanilla ice cream? That sound good to you?" Justin, never able to turn down apple pie and ice cream, smugly smiled at the devastated brothers. Claire, turning to the older boys, declared, "If you two clean up the kitchen, then and only then will you get some pie."

John and Brian faced each other for a split second then jumped up to clear the table and wash the dishes.

Claire rewarded the boys as promised with ample slices of pie dripping with ice cream. With coffee on a tray, the newly formed family had dessert in Claire's living room.

"Claire, these paintings, did Kinney paint them? They're beautiful. The landscapes, so full of detail. It's like I was standing in the fields. I wish I could paint like that." Justin stood in front of a painting of a corn field admiring the technique. "His use of color and the upsweep brush stroke, simple yet insightful."

"Justin, your paintings are beautiful too."

"But nothing like this, Brian. Besides, you know I sketch better than I paint. Claire, do you have more of Kinney's work?"

"Yes, in the hall. I've tried to keep the paintings out of direct sunlight so they wouldn't fade. Come and look." Justin and Brian followed Claire into the hall that led to the upper floor. Lining the walls were several paintings. Some landscapes, others portraits. John, who grew up with the paintings remained in the living room.

"Brian, look at this. This is the young man in the painting, the one in the book. I bet he was Kinney's lover." A small plate on the bottom of the frame had the name Patrick engraved on it. "I wonder what happened to him."

"The story goes that after Kinney's wife discovered their affair she demanded that Patrick leave the country immediately. He did. He went to South America. He was shortly followed by Kinney, who first arranged with his lawyer to oversee the farmland until his son was of age. He then packed up whatever he could carry and left the country. Other than an occasional painting finding its way back to America, Kinney and Patrick were never heard from again."

"They gave up everything to be with each other." Brian's cough brought Justin back down to earth. "I could use another cup of your coffee, Claire."

"Of course, Brian." As the three of them turned to exit the hall, Brian noticed a painting of the farmhouse. "Claire, if Kinney and his wife were so rich, why didn't they live in a mansion? Did they live here? This painting is of this house, isn't it?"

"You're right. But in Kinney's day this was an out house. No, not that kind of outhouse. The original Kinney home burned down years ago. The outlying houses were all that were left. None survive today except for this house and the barn. I had this painting framed myself a long time ago. But I always got the impression that it wasn't complete or that a piece of it is missing."

"I believe you're right. But I'd have to take a trip home and to Joan's house to be sure. I remember an old painting that hung in the den or what should have been a den. Jack used it mainly to hide in when he wanted to smoke. The painting was of a great house but it was so dirty I don't remember the details."

"Brian, maybe we can rescue the painting when we go home. I know a good restorer."

"I'll think about it, Sunshine. I think it's time for us to go, we've taken up enough of your time, Claire."

"Brian, it's late. You can't drive back to Pittsburgh now."

"Is there a decent hotel nearby?"

"We have plenty of room here. Please stay. I have more photos and documents you may be interested in. We can talk more tomorrow after a good night's sleep."

"We can't impose on you and John."

"It's not an imposition. Besides I have a feeling John may want to go out. I worry that he goes out alone all the time."

"No woman in his life?"

"That's the problem. There are too many women in his life. I never know who I'm talking to on the phone when they call for him."

***************************************

Sitting in the screen porch Brian and John got to know one another a little better as Claire and Justin talked some more about the Kinney past.

"So, big bro, Claire says you like the ladies. Lots of ladies."

"Yeah, what's it to you. You're a fag, what would you know about it?"

"A lot more than you think."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Let me ask you something first. How many women do you sleep with everyday?"

"Everyday? I'm on the road most of the time. I usually hook up on the weekends. Why?"

"From the time I was about twenty up until a few years ago I would do about one to two tricks a night. More on weekends."

"Tricks?"

"Having sex, 'sleeping' with someone."

"Every night?" Brian nodded. "More on the weekends?" Brian nodded again.

"Shit, that's a lot of sex."

"It's a difficult job but someone had to do it. And I had no reason to stop. And everything to prove, to myself. I only say this because it doesn't mean shit. Men, women, both, you're kidding yourself if you think all that sex is a satisfying way to live. It's not. Take it from your very experienced little brother."

"Fuck."

"Exactly."

"What happened a few years ago? You said up until a few years ago you did..."

"Tricks."

"Yeah."

"Justin happened. We're not monogamous, I'm not ready for that but I don't do it as much. Need to keep up my strength for Justin. The boy's insatiable. Claire's concerned about you, that's all."

"She's my mother; she can't help it. I haven't met the right woman, yet."

"Or the right man. Don't give me that look. My gaydar is usually right. I was a little slow on the uptake today because I was distracted. Don't tell me that you haven't experimented, taken a walk on the dark side?"

"No, I haven't and I don't intend to. I'm straight."

"Sure you are. You're as straight as I am."

John stood up, glaring at Brian. Brian hid his flinch well.

"The farm, Kinney. What are you going to do with the farm? I don't care about myself. I can get an apartment or a shack anywhere I want. This place is the only home my mother has ever known. Jack is dead; she has no hope and no right to this place. I repeat, what do you intend to do?"

Upon hearing her son shouting, Claire, followed by Justin, ran out to the porch. "What's all the shouting about?"

"Brian, are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Justin. Brother John wants to know my intentions."

"Your what?"

"He wants to know what I'm going to do about the deed to the farm." Facing Claire, Brian took the deed out of his pocket and pressed it into her hands. "If you have a lawyer, call him. I'll sign the deed over to you. I'm really a city boy. Too quiet for me. Justin has a lot of allergies. If we stay much longer, he'll be sneezing his nose off. But I'd like visitation rights. Maybe bring Gus here."

Claire looked down at the deed in her hand, then drew Brian into a tight hug. Overwhelmed, Claire was unable to speak. Feeling the same, Brian silently returned the hug.

"John, before it gets too dark, would you show me the barn?"

"The barn? It's just an old barn." Justin rolled his eyes at John and nodded toward Claire and Brian who were still indulging in their Kodak moment. Justin and John walked to the barn giving Claire and Brian time to recover.

"Justin, can I ask you something personal?"

"Sure."

"When did you know?"

"Know what?"

"That you were gay."

"I don't know, maybe about twelve. Didn't do anything about it until I was seventeen. Why?"

"And Brian? When did he know?"

"I think he had his first experience at fourteen."

"Fourteen? Shit and he said he does tricks?"

"Yeah, a regular stud. He's cut down, a lot. John, why all these questions about knowing if you're gay or not. Are you gay?"

"Brian seems to think so. Says his radar is never wrong."

"That's gaydar and yeah, he's never wrong."

"Fucking hell." Justin was touched by the similarities between the brooding John and a brooding Brian. Justin hugged John to comfort him. John, who had grown up with a loving and demonstrative parent, gratefully accepted the embrace. Until the tornado named Brian Kinney entered the barn.

Chapter 6

"Take. Your. Hands. Off. My. Twink."

Beau, who up to this point had made himself scarce throughout the afternoon, had trotted along with Brian to the barn. Sniffing the air and having the good sense, that his maker had given him, he decided that this next drama was best left to the silly humans. Beau went back to the house and back to Claire.

John saw the wave of jealousy fill the hazel eyes and realized just how tall and powerful his baby brother really was, he released Justin from his grasp.

Under normal circumstances, Justin would relish Brian's display of jealousy and possessiveness, knowing it would lead to an intense makeout session and equally intense fucking. But these were hardly normal circumstances; Justin had to deflate Brian's rage.

John watched as Justin transformed from what moments before was a strong man offering comfort into a sweet wide-eyed innocent boy, with his large blue eyes moistening with just a touch of allergies. Looking up through the sweep of his golden eyelashes, Justin stood apart from John. "He looks so much like you when you're upset, I couldn't help myself."

Brian saw the angelic face gaze up at him; he exhaled and with it went all his anger and jealousy. Brian's features softened as he stood with arms open with an invitation. Justin understood and immediately went to Brian's waiting arms. "I am so fucked," Brian admitted as he circled his arms around Justin.

John, witnessing this latest drama, began to understand the unique dynamics between these two men. To the outside world, Brian was the boss, the master, the top; in reality, Brian was the other half of a partnership. A partner, who at times was whipped by a little blond. Brian knew it, for the most part accepted it and needed it. John wondered if he'd ever find anyone like Justin for himself.

With Brian's ego sufficiently soothed, Justin ventured a suggestion. "It's not all that late and it's Saturday. Is there anything to do around here?"

"Justin, do you really think a pair of fags like us can just walk into the local watering hole and order a couple of beers. We'll be riding a rail out of here faster than you can bat those baby blues and not in a positive, life affirming way."

John cracked up with laughter as the tension was all but drained from the situation. "I know of a place that's safe for fags; it's a few miles out of town."

"Uh huh. I'm never wrong." Brian exclaimed smugly. Before another drama could unfold, Justin ushered the brothers out of the barn and began to babble. "We should tell Claire that we're going out so she won't worry and are we dressed okay? We don't have anything really nice to put on and does this place have music? I haven't danced in such a long time and..."

"Does he always talk so much?"

"Yeah."

"You have my sympathies."

"Thanks. Let's go before he walks into a cow pie or something. Hey, Sonny Boy, slow down before you strain your mouth. I have plans for it later." Brian winked at John who could only roll his eyes. Justin ignored the snarky comment as usual and kept babbling on.

After promising Claire he'd keep an eye on the brothers, Justin and said brothers piled into John's truck and headed for a little bar just outside of town called 'The Honey Bear.' Apparently Bridgeton and surrounding environs had a sufficient amount of gay men and women to warrant their own bar and grill.

The Honey Bear was once an old barn that had been transformed into a bar restaurant and it had a small dance floor. It was surprisingly cozy having several large pot bellied stoves and one large fireplace in a corner to keep the big building warm in the winter. The tables and thick cushioned sofas and chairs were arranged around each stove to give the feeling of intimacy. In the middle was an empty expanse suitable for dancing. The music was loud enough for dancing but low to encourage talk. In front of the fireplace were large and inviting futon pillows. The candles burning on each table and on the hearth, added to its warmth. It was a sophisticated refuge in rural Pennsylvania.

The three claimed an unoccupied table and stove near the bar. Brian and Justin took up residence on the sofa while John settled into the chair. They didn't have long to wait for a waiter to walk over and take their drink orders.

Brian, feeling at home, in his element did what came natural for him. John watched with awe as Brian surveyed the whole place and in a matter of seconds made mental notes of who was doable and who was not. Brian oozed with sex, every twink, bear and troll twitched with excitement and hope. John wondered how Justin could put up with such obvious wanton behavior. Justin wrinkled his nose and told Brian to behave. Brian, tongue in cheek, replied, "Moi?" John shook his head at the two realizing that Justin must be used to Brian in stud mode. The pretty red-headed waiter came back with their drinks.

"New in town?" The redhead twink asked, cruising Brian while placing the beers on the table. Justin glared. The unspoken 'he's mine' hung in the air. The redhead sighed wistfully and Brian shrugged. The waiter turned to John and handed him his beer. "Don't I know you?" Brian and Justin leaned in, awaiting John's answer. John blushed and sputtered, "I don't think so."

"I never forget a face, especially one as handsome as yours. It'll come back to me." With that said, the redhead wiggled away to another table. Brian and Justin continued to stare at John with amusement. "I don't know him, really; at least, I don't think I know him."

Brian, unable to waste a moment of torture, teased his brother with, "ping, ping, ping." Justin elbowed Brian in the gut as John's blush deepened, and he hid behind his beer bottle. After a few moments and sweating with embarrassment, John stated, "I need something stronger than beer." He looked around searching for a waiter. Brian smirked and sat up straight. Within seconds, Red was back and Brian ordered a round of shots. Addressing Justin, John asked, "How does he do that?"

"It's a gift. Gets us a lot of drinks that way and anyone else he wants."

"Don't you mean anything else?"

"No, I don't." Red came back with the shots. "Now, I remember. It was about a month ago, you came in here, a little drunk. Some guys were hitting on you but you weren't into it. I took you home." Red disappeared, Brian and Justin waited for an explanation.

"Damn." John knew enough about the two men in front of him that they wouldn't let this drop. Downing the shot of Beam in one swallow, John explained.

"I did come in here. I was heading back home after an argument with my girlfriend, well not really my girlfriend. We were seeing each other for about a month. It wasn't going anywhere. I had a little too much to drink that night. I pulled off the road and came in here looking for coffee. I was never in here before; I didn't know what kind of place this was. Red, came over, brought me the coffee. I guess he saved me. A couple of guys were getting way too friendly and I was too drunk to understand. The little guy told them to fuck off, sobered me up then made sure I got home okay. He was very, um, sweet." John took another pull of beer. Justin had that 'awww moment' look on his face. Brian had the good sense to say nothing. The music changed to something familiar and danceable.

"Come on, Sunshine. Let's show these hick fags how it's done." Brian pulled Justin up off the sofa and onto the dance floor that was peppered with couples attempting to dance. The Honey Bear was about to be favored with a backwoods version of the Brian and Justin show.

The music was slow but with a pounding beat. Justin took his place with his arms around Brian's neck. Brian snaked his arms around Justin's waist, scrunching down a bit to grind their groins together. Both men were instantly hard. Foreheads touching Brian gazed into Justin's face; Justin had that way too familiar grin telling Brian this is exactly how Justin knew they were going to end up. Justin closed his eyes and allowed Brian and the music to take him away. They continued to sway with the music, Brian holding Justin tightly. This wasn't Babylon so there wasn't anyone to intrude upon them but Brian sent out the signals that the man in his arms belonged to him, and Brian didn't share. No one would get between them.

Justin turned so that they were dancing cock to ass, Brian suggestively humped Justin's luscious ass. Brian slipped his hands into Justin's front pockets, groping the hard organ within Justin's cargos. The whole bar watched with lust and admiration. The lovers were unofficially crowned the kings of The Honey Bear. Justin turned again and tilted his head. Brian suckled the offered delicate neck and nibbled on Justin's ear.

As John watched the couple, he was struck with how truly beautiful they were together. Apart, they were striking; together they became an erotic combination of sensual energy John had never seen before. John never entertained the thought that two men could be as arousing as Brian and Justin.

Red came back with a few more beers. Before he left, he spoke softly into John's ear. "They're beautiful together, aren't they?" John couldn't help but nod in agreement. "You're just as gorgeous as he is. My name is Bobby. I'm here every weekend. My number's on the back of your napkin. When you're ready, give me a call." Bobby left to attend another table, leaving a stunned John in his wake.

As the song began to wind down, Brian cupped Justin's face and deeply kissed the beautiful full lips. Justin gave himself over to the kiss, wishing that Brian would take him into a backroom or bathroom. Any place where they could end their dance properly. Brian released Justin's face and shook his head. There would be no quick fuck this time. Justin sighed and gave a little pout. Brian giggled and kissed the pouting lips. "Later, in a bed, no woodland fuck for you, little boy."

"Promise?"

"I promise."

Secure with Brian's promise, Justin led his lover back to their table and sofa. Grateful to be greeted with fresh cold beer, the lovers snuggled up against each other on the sofa.

John barely noticed the couple's return as he fingered the napkin with Bobby's number on it. "What's that?" Brian sing-songed.

"Nothing."

"He gave you his number, didn't he?"

"Brian, leave John alone. John, he's very cute, for a twink and he's obviously interested."

"He's not bad," Brian added.

Justin knew that was Kinney-speak for "I'd do him." Choosing to ignore Brian's comment, John looked into Justin's soulful eyes and began to see what Brian saw. Besides the obvious, Justin was genuinely a kindhearted young man, full of love. Sadly, John realized he had spent the majority of his adult life looking for companionship in the wrong places. Maybe there was a Justin for him. Yawning, a bit bored and getting a little pissed with the looks that brother John was giving his Justin, Brian snatched the napkin out of John's hand and stuffed it into John's shirt pocket. "I'm beat, lets go back to the house. I need my dick sucked."

Justin gave Brian a scowl but acquiesced. "That sound's like a plan."

The three got up and John placed a hefty tip on the table. Before leaving, Brian asked for one of John's business cards. Expecting Brian to put it in his pocket, a startled John watched Brian put the card down on the tip. "Just hedging my bets," Brian told the curious John. Then he pushed John toward the door before John had a chance to pick up the card. Justin turned and gave Bobby a wink and a wave as they headed out the door.

The drive home was fairly silent except for the suckface noises Brian and Justin were making as the blond sat on Brian's lap trying to consume Brian's lips.

"Shit, can't you two wait until we get home?"

Briefly coming up for air, the lovers replied, NO!" As they continued making a meal out of each other.

John drove into the driveway, opened the door for his two panting companions and waited for Brian and Justin to notice that the car had stopped and they were in front of the house. "Come on, I'll show you where you can crash and please hold down the noise. There's been no sex in this house for damn near forty years. You might peel the paint off the walls." Chuckling, the lovers regained their composure and entered the house. John showed them the bathroom and then the guest room. He bid them goodnight and retreated to his own room next door. John prayed that the walls that were strong enough to hold up the house which was well over a hundred years old were strong enough to hold out the noises he knew were going start the minute his door was shut.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Brian shut the bedroom door behind them and pounced on Justin. His lips found those he had been ravishing in the car and they both moaned wanting the release they had been denied for hours. Brian backed Justin towards the bed ripping his clothes off as they went.

When the backs of Justin's legs hit the side of the bed he shoved Brian back, easily divesting himself of the rest of his clothes while he waited for Brian to get out of his. He saw Brian fish condoms and lube out of his jeans.

"Do you have enough?" Justin asked with a grin.

"We're about to find out," Brian said sheathing his hard cock.

Justin threw back the beautiful quilt that covered the bed. He then leaned back on the bed supporting himself on his elbows. He brought his legs up opening them so Brian could get the full effect. He leisurely stroked his cock as he waited for his beautiful lover to ready himself.

With a throaty growl Brian fell between Justin's legs kissing those lips, and those cheeks, and that neck and nipples and stomach, working his way towards his goal. He took Justin's cock in his mouth tasting the precum that was already there.

"Fuck me," Justin breathed wanting to be taken in the way that only Brian ever did.

Brian got onto his knees squirting lube into Justin's pucker and stretching it with his fingers. His dick was not far behind drawing a cry from Justin that neither of them bothered to stifle. Brian rocked into the boy driving him forcefully into the mattress. Justin grunted his approval and grabbed Brian's hair pulling his head down for a kiss. They bucked against each other varying the speed and intensity until they were both bathed in sweat and ready to explode. They moaned and panted as their orgasms neared. With a few final thrusts Brian came with a huge groan. Justin wasn't far behind calling out his lover's name as he shot all over them both.

They lay entwined in each other's arms waiting for the room to settle back into place.

"Phew," Brian gasped as he got rid of the condom. "That was definitely a top ten."

"Yeah," Justin agreed. "Must be all this good country air."

"At least you didn't step in a cow pie. That's one of those good country things that I could do without."

"And just why would I be the one to step in a cow pie?" Justin asked.

"You know you're always looking at things in terms of what would make a good picture. You never pay attention to where your feet are going."

Justin snorted his disapproval. "There aren't even any cows around here."

Brian sucked in his lips. "If there are I'm sure you would find their droppings."

"Fuck you!"

"I intend to," Brian said. "Ready?"

"Always," Justin said as Brian rolled on top of him. "Do you think they heard us?"

Brian shrugged. "Maybe John will learn what gay sex is all about." He grabbed another condom as they got ready for round two.

John lay in his bed listening to his brother and his twink go at it. He had no idea that he would be so aroused listening to them. He jerked off during the first bout. Something about Justin's moans really set him off. He pictured the redhead, Bobby, from the Honey Bear. John could imagine his dick buried so deep into that twink that neither of them would remember where one began and the other ended. He came with such force that he hardly knew what had hit him. During round two next door John debated getting up and going back to the Honey Bear to have his way with Bobby then and there. He settled for jerking off again, however, but he vowed that tomorrow night he would wait for the redhead to finish work and then they would be together. He knew it would be exactly what he needed. Maybe Bobby would be his Justin. He should only be as lucky as his little brother at finding the perfect man.

Some time later John fell asleep thinking about his redhead. He had no idea when Brian and Justin finally got some rest.

In the other room Brian rolled off his luscious blond and turned onto his back.

"Umm," he said letting out a breath.

"Enough?" Justin asked feeling deliciously tired.

Brian arched a brow at him. "Never enough," he reminded his young partner.

"I'm tired," Justin yawned.

"Youth, built for speed, not stamina."

"Don't you think we should give the rest of the people in the house a chance to sleep? It's almost two."

"I suppose." Brian released a slow breath. "Besides, I only have one condom left, and we might need it in the morning."

"You want that to be the wake up call for the household?" Justin giggled.

"I could think of worse ways of waking up," Brian said tongue in cheek.

"You're incorrigible."

"But extremely loveable."

Justin smiled at Brian. "I do love you, you know."

"I know. And … thanks for bringing me here."

"You mean it? I did the right thing tracking down the Andersons?"

"You always do the right thing … even when it doesn't seem like it at the time."

Justin leaned in and kissed Brian before turning and snuggling back against his man. He felt Brian's arm come around him. Brian's breath caressed the top of his hair just before he fell asleep.

Chapter 7

Brian woke up the next morning to the aroma of Claire's excellent coffee wafting under his nose.

"Wakey, wakey."

"Mmm, smells good." Brian pried open an eye and noticed that not only was his boy awake but he was freshly showered and dressed. Handing Brian the mug, Justin set out a fresh set of clothes for his lover.

"Why are you awake so early and where did these clothes come from?"

"First, it's not all that early. Two, I packed us a bag before we left; it was in the jeep. I figured the extra clothes might come in handy just in case we got lost in the wilderness. Third, Claire made breakfast, and my stomach woke me up. And if you hurry I may even leave you some." Justin allowed all his information to sink into Brian's sleep foggy brain then scurried out of the bedroom down to the kitchen. Brian took a couple of sips from the mug. Sweetened just the way he liked it, the coffee helped the fog begin to lift. Brian's bladder and stomach were each making demands. He got up and threw his clothes on. Taking the mug with him, Brian first hit the bathroom then followed his nose to the kitchen. Claire, John and Justin were already seated and eating their meal.

"Nice of you to join us, Brian. Did you have a good night's sleep?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Then help yourself and have a seat."

"Thank you, Claire." Looking around at the trio seated at the table, Brian got the distinct impression he was the butt of a joke, but his need for more coffee outweighed his curiosity. Brian helped himself to another mugful and toast.

"Is that all you're going to eat? It's no wonder why you're so skinny." Brian, unable to sustain a conversation this early on a Sunday morning merely nodded and took a bite of his toast.

"Brian, Claire showed me an album with pictures of your grandparents and the rest of your family. She's going to let us take it back home with us so I can make copies. Claire, I'll get it back to you as soon as possible."

"No rush, Justin. I've been able to look at them for forty years and it will give you two a good excuse to come back for a visit. Brian, do you think Gus' mother would allow you to bring him here. I'd love to meet him. We could make a weekend of it; perhaps plan a bar-b-q."

Much to Justin's surprise and pleasure, Brian grunted an affirmation. Needing help with the Kinney-speak translation, John and Claire looked to Justin. "That means, yes, we'd love to Claire."

"Hmm, we'll plan a date before you leave." With help from the coffee and the toast filling his belly, Brian was ready to contribute to the conversation. Not fully thinking it through, Brian offered his own invitation. "John, do you ever get to the city? If the Honey Bear piqued your curiosity last night, there are plenty of other places like it, Justin and I can introduce you to."

Not missing a beat and already having a mother/son talk with Claire, John answered, "I'd love to visit Pittsburgh. I'd like to see how the other half lives. As far as my curiosity goes, I think I may have satisfied that at the Honey Bear. There's a phone call I have to make later." Brian, relieved that he didn't put his size twelves in his mouth again, took out a couple of his business cards and gave one each to Claire and John, requesting they keep in touch.

After helping Claire clear up the breakfast dishes, Brian and Justin packed up their belongings and said their goodbyes. Not wanting to give rise to anymore emotional displays, Brian hurried Justin out of the house and to the Jeep. Before getting in Brian drew John into a fierce hug. He then thanked Claire for accepting him and Justin into her home and promised to come back soon. Claire and John waved as the Jeep headed down the drive. Beau, who had been an innocent bystander for the past 24 hours worth of drama, was happy to have his quiet peaceful home returned to him. He naively wagged his tail as the Jeep drove away. Poor dog, little did he know.

The drive back to Pittsburgh was quiet and uneventful, each man lost in thought. Justin had indeed awoken very early and spoke with Claire about his own interest in the artist Kinney and the possible value of the paintings hanging in her home. He promised to do some research, explaining his own relationship with Lindsay, as artist and gallery manager, plus Justin still had many contacts at PIFA. Claire had to agree with Brian on that one. Justin belonged back at the institute to finish his education. Silently he nodded his agreement; it appeared that Justin had acquired another mother figure in his life. John too was interested in the value of the artwork as possible investments for his mother's future and/or tax breaks if donated to a major museum. Justin offered to check out those possibilities too. Aside from Lindsay as art consultant, Justin decided to elicit Teddy's help as well. Justin was also curious about the painting that hung in Joan's home. As he was trying to come up with a scheme to take a look at the painting, Brian's voice broke through his reverie.

"You're going to wear out that gerbil in your head if you keep up all that thinking. And before you start making elaborate plans that include me or any of our friends, we're first going home, I'm going to take a hot shower, preferably with my hot partner, then I'm going to fuck said partner into the mattress and I'm not going to worry if my partner makes a lot of noise because my neighbors are quite used to it. Then we're going to eat something, fuck again, and then we'll discuss your plans. Okay?"

All Justin could do was smile and nod his consent. It never ceased to amaze him how perceptive Brian was when it came to him and his plans. Drowsy and feeling unusually calm, Justin leaned back in his seat and began to doze.

Brian, seeing his content and quiet lover sleeping, couldn't help the smile that graced his face. He had survived his trip down memory lane, with Justin's support. And with luck from the gods, he had gained a brother and another step-mother? Whatever Claire was to him, Brian liked it. Claire was able to give Brian a small piece of Jack as a good man, not the bastard he had grown up with. It couldn't wipe away the years of pain and heartache but at least Brian now had some understanding of what went wrong. Taking a page from Claire's book, Brian couldn't change the past but he could certainly make an impact on his future. That future, he hoped included Justin, Gus and John.

Back at the Anderson farm, Claire went about her usual Sunday chores. John was making plans of his own. Contemplating the phone number on the napkin, John made his decision; he dialed. After apologizing for waking the sleeping Bobby they made a 'date' to meet after his shift for an early dinner. The Honey Bear did make a palatable steak dinner and the atmosphere was conducive for exploration into unknown territory. Both of Jack's boys had seduction on their menu that afternoon.

Brian's plans went true to form, no worries there. Justin was his very willing participant. John had a little trouble getting started. He was entering 'virgin territory', so to speak and he had no idea what to do. Bobby, however, was not unfamiliar with virgins. John had the good sense to follow Bobby's lead.

Arriving at the Honey Bear at about four, Bobby lead John to a table set for two and poured him a glass of wine from a bottle he had breathing on their table. While waiting for their dinner to arrive Bobby eased John into conversation. John learned that outward appearances were indeed deceiving. Bobby wasn't all that much younger than John. He was studying business law at Penn State on a partial scholarship, hence the need to work at the Honey Bear. Bobby had regular customers that tipped him well due to his fine service. The fact that Bobby was very attractive made it all the more easy. During the week Bobby lived on campus then came home on the weekends to work. He also had a job at the university's cafeteria. The enterprising young man intrigued and impressed John. Like John, Bobby was working hard to make it and he kept his ties to his home town. John found that Bobby's grey blue eyes were just as pleasing as Justin's ocean blues. His skin was pale and he had a mop of deep red hair. John found himself reaching to touch Bobby's hair and blushed at his own impulsiveness. Bobby welcomed the touch and leaned in toward it.

John and Bobby found it easy going, able to converse about almost anything from property taxes to the home town teams. They learned they had gone to the same high school, graduating at different years but having some of the same teachers. John couldn't believe how relaxed he felt. This was so different from 'courting' women. He liked the difference.

Around seven, conversation winding down, they had to go home. John had an early appointment in the morning and Bobby had to go back to campus that night. John had to admit to himself that he didn't want to leave. Out in the parking lot they made plans to see each other the following weekend and Bobby promised to call during the week. Before allowing John to get into his car and sensing that John had never kissed a man, Bobby clasped John by the nape of his neck and pulled John down to meet his lips. John melted into the embrace. Breaking for air, John attempted speech. Bobby smiled and calmed John's racing thoughts.

"There's no rush; we take this nice and slow." John nodded then he took another taste of Bobby's full ripe lips, this time more prepared to savor the flavor of Bobby's own taste combined with the wine. "Until next Friday then," Bobby ventured.

"I'll be here," John promised. Retreating into their cars, John went home, Bobby went back to Penn.

During the next week, Brian was in full ad exec mode, barking out his orders, watching his staff jump and overall just being Brian Kinney. Justin spent all his spare time running around town doing his research. His Sunshine file grew fatter with all the information he was collecting. Lindsay was fascinated with the art book, Claire's photo album and with the artist Kinney. She joined Justin in his research. Brian made good his promise to Justin and found a way of getting into Joanie's house to take a good look at the painting. Actually it was a lot easier than he thought it was going to be.

One afternoon, Joan, not feeling too much pain and in need of Brian's 'help' with a tax bill, bullied her way past Cynthia and into Brian's office. Thankfully Brian was in between clients. Not wanting to give up the game to Joan, Brian had little trouble being his snarky self. Making an excuse that he didn't have his personal check book with him at the office, he told Joan he would go to her house that evening with a check. Hoping that Joan would be three sheets to the wind by then, Brian would have no difficulty looking at the painting and perhaps escaping that house with it tucked under his arm.

Later that evening, Joan had her check and Brian had his Kinney.

Over the next several weeks, with the help from Lindsay, Ted, John and Brian, Justin's research was coming to an end. Lindsay had arranged for the shipping of all the 'Kinney's' to the gallery and for an appraiser to look them over. With a little cleaning the near perfect paintings were worth close to $100,000.00, maybe more at auction. At the very least, allowing them to be shown or donating them to a museum could bring Claire a tidy sum. When the question of ownership came up, Brian decided to make sure that when he signed over the deed to the house to Claire, all its contents including the paintings were stipulated as hers. Justin had hopes of reuniting the two parts of the painting of the Anderson farmhouse and the Kinney mansion and giving the whole painting back to Claire. To Justin, it symbolized the reuniting of Brian and his family.

John's business took him to Pittsburgh on many occasions and Bobby was able to meet there as well. Brian introduced John to his 'family.' Debbie nearly lost her wig when the look-alike brothers sauntered into the diner one afternoon. (By then, John had perfected his saunter.)

"Holy fuck! There's two of them!" Debbie exclaimed with a shriek. After calming Brian's first step-mother down, he explained the whole story to Debbie. Debbie embraced her latest 'son' into her fold, nearly turning John blue with one of her infamous bear hugs.

John learned that being Brian Kinney's brother had several advantages. When visiting Pittsburgh and especially the land of Liberty, not only did he pick up a few business contacts, he had more phone numbers from men than he knew what to do with. John also learned the disadvantages of being Brian Kinney's brother; he had more phone numbers from men than he knew what to do with. John didn't want all those phone numbers. There was only one phone number he wanted and had. His and Bobby's relationship was growing.

As summer was approaching, Claire made good on her invitation for the bar-b-q. She planned a real family party for the July 4th weekend. The unsuspecting Claire had no idea what 'family' meant to Brian and Justin. Poor Beau, the old dog's peaceful life was about to take a major left turn.

Brian turned into the driveway and glanced in the rearview mirror. He could see Debbie's old heap containing her, Michael, Hunter and Ben make the same turn. He breathed a sigh of relief that they had managed to follow him all the way with no misadventures. He could see Ted's car containing Ted, Emmett and Lindsay turn as well. They had all made it.

"Tell me why I'm doing this again," Brian said glancing back at Gus who was dozing in his big boy seat in the back of the rented Jeep Cherokee.

"Because you want Claire and John to meet the rest of your family, especially your son."

"He seems really thrilled to be doing this," Brian snarked looking at the sleepy boy.

"You know the car always puts him to sleep if we go any distance," Justin said. "Hey, Gus, we're here." Justin reached behind his seat, grabbed Gus' leg and rubbed gently. The little boy opened his eyes.

"Maybe we should buy one of these things," Brian said tapping the steering wheel.

"You mean so we can have a family vehicle as opposed to your fuckmobile."

"I thought it would be yours, but if you don't want…"

Brian was unable to finish that statement as Justin's lips found his and kissed him hard. Justin knew he would be getting a new car. He smiled one of his sunshine specials.

"Hey, you'll have me running this heap into the house if you don't stop that," Brian griped as he pulled the vehicle to a stop. Gus giggled in the back seat.

They all climbed out and Brian freed Gus from his car seat. He took Gus' hand and led him towards Claire and John who were waiting just outside the screen porch. Gus hung tight to Brian's leg, a little unsure about these strangers.

"Gus," Brian said. "This is your Uncle John and your grandma Claire."

"Hi," Gus said half hiding behind Brian's leg.

"He's beautiful, Brian," Claire said. "He looks just like you. Gus, can I have a hug? I baked a batch of cookies specially for you." Gus looked up at his father who nodded. Gus made his way over to Claire and put his arms around Claire's neck as she squatted down to hug the little boy. "Bobby, bring that plate of cookies out here," Claire called as the redhead from the Honey Bear came out of the screen porch carrying a plate of cookies. "Which one would you like, Gus?"

Gus pointed to one but looked over at Lindsay who had gotten out of the car and was standing with all the others while Gus made the acquaintance of his relatives.

"Say thank you, Gus," Lindsay told him, "and you can have one."

Gus said thank you smiling up at Claire as he took a bite of the delicious cookie. "Good," he said.

John came over and held out his hand. Gus took it looking up at the man who looked a lot like his father. He looked back and forth between the two men. "He looks like you, Daddy."

"Actually he looks like me," John said with a grin. "I'm older."

"I'll give you that," Brian said not wanting to discuss age.

Just then Beau put in an appearance deciding to lick the cookie residue off Gus' face. Gus giggled and ran to his father.

"Beau won't hurt you," Brian said.

"If you throw this stick, he'll bring it back to you," John said picking up a twig that lay on the ground nearby.

Gus wasn't great at throwing the stick but Beau faithfully returned it each time, even if it only went a foot or two. While Gus was occupied, Brian introduced everyone else and they all got drinks. They went to sit in the screen porch away from the hot afternoon sun.

"The bar-b-q is all fired up and ready to go whenever you want to eat," John said.

"I'm starving," Justin said.

"Don't be bashful, Sunshine," Brian said kissing Justin's cheek.

"A good appetite is very attractive in a man," Claire declared.

"Thank you, Claire," Justin said grandly getting up to go help with the food. Brian stuck out his tongue at him.

"Gus, stay in sight," Brian said. "We don't want you falling in the stream."

"Beau won't let that happen," John stated. The boy and dog were running around the barn chasing each other.

The hamburgers and steaks were added to the bar-b-q and John took on the role of chef. Claire, Debbie, Justin and Lindsay went inside to lay out the salads and rolls. Emmett and Ted were talking to Bobby. Michael and his brood said they were going to walk down to the stream before the food was ready.

Brian moved over beside John watching him arrange everything over the fire.

"It's a beautiful day for a bar-b-q," John said.

Brian nodded. "I see you and Bobby are seeing each other."

"Actually he's been living here for about a week. We love each other," John said slowly.

"You don't waste time when you make up your mind."

"Did you?"

Brian winced. "Way too much! Justin had to drag me kicking and screaming into a relationship."

"I'm too old to waste time," John said. "I've never been so happy. And mother loves Bobby."

"I'm really happy for you," Brian said sincerely.

"Thanks. It wouldn't have happened if you and Justin hadn't come here that day."

Brian nodded in confirmation. "There's something else I want to talk to you about though."

Before Brian could say anything more Claire came out of the porch to tell them that the rest of the food was ready whenever the meat was done.

"I want to talk to you both about the deed," Brian said.

"Have you signed the papers we sent you?" Claire asked.

"No, I haven't."

Claire looked startled. "Why? Is there a problem?"

"Kind of," Brian said. "I'm not signing…"

"You fucking asshole! You're backing out after everything you said?" John exploded. Everyone within earshot stopped talking and turned to watch the drama unfold.

"If you'll let me finish…"

"I can't believe you would stab us in the back like that," John continued his rant, the meat on the bar-b-q forgotten as his temper got the best of him.

"John, all I want is your promise to help me build a treehouse for Gus and then I'll happily sign."

"Oh," John said looking sheepish and shaking his head. "I'm sorry."

"I figured you are an architect and we could build a good one for Gus in that old maple." Brian grinned, the anger forgotten.

"We could design a humdinger. But who's going to build it?"

"I thought you and me and Justin and maybe Bobby?" Brian said with a crooked smile.

"What about your other friends?"

"Can you imagine Emmett with a hammer?" Brian asked. John chuckled. "Besides you're family and I want this to be a family project." John seemed to like the sound of that.

"And Brian wants it big enough that he can share it with Gus," Justin said coming over and putting his arms around Brian's waist.

"Twat," Brian said but kissed Justin fondly.

"Daddy!" Gus cried running out from behind the barn.

"Gus, what's wrong? What happened?"

The little boy ran to his father. He was covered in mud and maybe something worse. "Beau knocked me down," Gus said looking like he wanted to cry.

"Where were you?" Brian asked looking at the filthy boy and his own now filthy leg where Gus was hanging on.

"Probably out by the rain barrel. It has a slow leak and it's always muddy around it," John said.

"Did you find the only cow pie in the county?" Brian asked lifting Gus up and giving him the sniff test. It was only mud if his nose could be believed.

"You're getting all dirty too, Brian," John said.

"It's okay," Brian said giving Gus a kiss. "Lindsay brought three outfits for Gus and Justin told me to bring a change of clothes. Hey, Sonny Boy, how be we go climb a tree while we're dirty. We can change for dinner when it's ready."

"Yeah," Gus said enthusiastically wrapping his arms around Brian's neck.

Brian carried Gus over to the old maple and set the boy carefully up on the big branch before he climbed up after him. Everybody could see Brian and Gus talking and gesturing as they dangled their feet from the branch.

"What a difference from the day Brian fell in the stream," John said sadly.

"Brian's always worried that he won't be a good father, that he'll turn out like Jack," Justin said.

"I don't think he has anything to worry about."

"Me either," Justin said with a grin. "Can you turn the heat down on the meat so that it won't be ready too soon?"

"You got it, but I thought you were hungry."

"Some things are more important than my stomach," Justin said looking at Brian and Gus.

"Yeah," John agreed.

"Oh, I brought something for you and Claire," Justin said. "It's in the back of the Jeep."

John followed Justin and helped him unload the painting they had taken from Joan's house. John went and got its alter ego from the hall. When they placed them side by side they looked great, like that was how they should be, like they were complete.

"It's good to reunite them," Claire said wiping a tear from her eye. Debbie gave her a big hug.

"Brian, come look at this," Justin called.

"In a minute," Brian replied. "Gus and I almost have our treehouse planned."

"He's just a big kid, you know," Justin chuckled.

They spent the rest of the afternoon eating and getting to know each other. The family and friends seemed to meld together just like the two paintings that had been separated for so long.

As Brian's strange little family got ready to leave, John pulled Brian aside and made arrangements for him to come back in a couple of weeks. John would get the lumber and they could put up the treehouse in a weekend if they really worked at it. Brian gave John and Claire a hug which set off a major hugfest that lasted several minutes as everyone, including Bobby had to be included.

Finally they all climbed into their vehicles and set off back to Pittsburgh.

"That was a good day," Justin said with a happy sigh.

"The best," Gus piped in.

"The best," Brian agreed.

"I guess I can close the Sunshine files now," Justin said putting his folders in the back seat next to Gus.

"I'm just glad you opened them in the first place," Brian said leaning over to kiss his partner. He had a new family, good friends, a great son, and pretty soon the treehouse that he had always wanted. Life was good.

*******************************************************************************************

Treehouse

Chapter 1

Justin pulled the loft door closed behind him just as a loud thud from the bedroom resounded around the spacious loft.

"Brian?" he called. "Brian, are you all right?"

Justin made his way over to the steps leading up to the bedroom. Brian was standing by the end of the bed with something lying in a pile around his feet.

"What are you doing?" Justin asked as Brian surveyed the object at his feet. "What the fuck is that?"

"My tool belt."

"Tool belt? What the fuck are you doing with a tool belt?"

"We're going to John's tomorrow to start the treehouse, so I thought we should bring some tools."

"Where did you get those?" Justin asked.

"I went over to Deb's earlier. She made a cake that she wants us to take to Claire and the boys tomorrow. Carl was there and when I told him about the treehouse and that I should find some tools, he offered me his tool belt."

"That was nice of him."

"Yeah," Brian said looking at the pile at his feet.

"So what's the problem?"

"It's too fucking big, even in the last hole."

"That's because you have no hips," Justin said wisely.

Brian snorted. "Unlike some of us with excess baggage in the back."

"Excess? Excess?" Justin demanded his voice rising in indignation. Brian stuck his tongue in his cheek and nodded knowingly. "I do not have excess baggage. Everybody loves my ass, especially someone standing in this room."

"Hmmfph," Brian said.

"I bet I could wear the tool belt," Justin said coming over to pick it up as Brian stepped out of the pile of tools. He undid the buckle and placed it around his hips. Sure enough on the last hole the tool belt sat temptingly atop the globes of Justin's ass. "See," he said with a grin.

"Excess baggage," Brian repeated, but then his eyes darkened. He could picture Justin's erect cock peaking out from under the tool belt, and then he pictured Justin's ass spread out naked before him with the tool belt resting just above his pink little pucker, and then he pictured plowing into that ass with the tools slapping against their bodies.

"Brian?" Justin said. "You have a funny look on your face."

"Get naked," Brian growled as he started to pull off his own clothes. "But keep the belt."

"Kinky," Justin giggled as he saw where this was heading and liked it a lot. He could already feel his cock growing in anticipation and Brian was obviously ready as he got rid of his jeans.

"On your knees on the bed," Brian ordered.

Justin obeyed immediately. He wiggled his ass in anticipation as it stuck up in Brian's direction. The tools bobbled around and slapped against his thighs. He moaned softly.

"Don't start without me," Brian said as he kneeled on the bed and started to eat Justin's ass using the tool belt for purchase.

"Oh God, Brian," Justin groaned. His cock was so hard and it was pushing against the constraints of the tool belt. It felt amazing, and Brian was licking his hole, and he was so fucking turned on. "Fuck me now!" he ordered wriggling around and pushing back for Brian to give him more.

Brian suited up and entered the boy quickly plowing home with a couple of quick thrusts. He held onto the tool belt to pull Justin back against him. It rubbed over Justin's swollen cock and the boy moaned with pleasure.

Brian found his rhythm quickly and rode his little tool belt man for all he was worth. Between Brian plowing his ass and the action of the belt against his cock, it didn't take Justin long to reach orgasm. He called Brian's name as he shot and contracted his muscles around Brian's dick. The man shot his load immediately and then dropped down on top of Justin.

"Ouch, ouch, ouch," they both cried.

"I've got a fucking hammer in my groin," Brian cried rolling away.

"So, I have a chisel alongside my dick. That could be fatal."

They both started giggling as Brian got rid of the condom and Justin cleaned himself up. Justin then adjusted the tool belt so he could keep wearing it but nothing was pressing against something important.

"That was hot," Brian said smiling over at Justin.

"Yeah, and painful there at the end."

"You'll have to wear the tool belt tomorrow. Maybe you should dress just like this," Brian said running his hand along Justin's thigh.

"We'd never get anything done," Justin giggled.

"We'd get important stuff done," Brian said with a lascivious grin.

"And what about John and Bobby … and Claire."

"Maybe we could get Bobby to wear a tool belt too."

"You are evil."

"I know. It's one of my most endearing qualities."

"Tomorrow should be fun," Justin said.

"Yeah, if only one of us knew what the fuck we were doing," Brian grimaced.

"John will know. He builds things all the time."

"Not by himself."

"We'll help him."

Brian snorted. "We'll be a big help!"

"We will, and we're going to build the best treehouse that ever was."

"Come here, my enthusiastic little tool man," Brian said kissing Justin's cheek. "I think we need to give the belt another workout."

"Anytime, my big hunky carpenter man," Justin giggled, as Brian pressed against him. He didn't even feel the hammer stuck between them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Early the next morning they were in Justin's brand new Jeep Cherokee with the tool belt, Debbie's cake and enough clothes for the week. Brian had rearranged his schedule and Justin was still a free spirit. John had suggested the four of them spend the time building the treehouse and getting to know one another. He also needed the vacation, never having a reason to take time off before. John had used the fact that the plans for the treehouse were rather elaborate and would take more than a long weekend to complete. Bobby was off for the summer and took time off from The Honey Bear to lend a hand, hammer and or dick, when necessary. They arrived at Claire's farm around ten in the morning.

Claire, Beau and the boys greeted Brian and John with hugs, licks from Beau and a fresh batch of muffins. Claire had learned from Debbie about Brian's bout with cancer and she was determined to put a little more meat on his bones. Her determination was emphasized when Brian was questioned by John about why Brian wasn't going to wear the tool belt.

After the demonstration of how the tool belt fit or rather did not fit around Brian's waist, it was agreed that Justin was the best man to wear it. Agreed, that is, after they all stopped laughing as the belt again hit the ground with a thud. Brian mumbled something about excess baggage as the Anderson-Kinney family went inside the house for breakfast and to discuss the treehouse plans.

Sitting in the kitchen at the table, John began to discuss the treehouse and handed out copies of the plans for each of them. The treehouse would have two levels. The lower level an open balcony, the upper completely enclosed and with windows on each of the four sides. Brian began to sweat with self doubt.

"Uh, John, I'm real good with a camera and I can write an ad to sell almost anything, but I don't think I can build something as ornate as that." Brian had to admit that while he was very good at a lot of things, carpentry wasn't one of them. Brian really wanted to participate, prove that he could to this for Gus and prove it to himself.

"Brian, I designed all the plans and drew them up in a step by step fashion. Most of the lumber has been precut to my specifications. It's all insert 'Tab A' into 'Slot B'. I think you're very familiar with fitting tabs into slots," John explained with a straight face to his little bro who was about to experience a full fledged queen out. Brian thought about it for a few seconds then pulled Justin onto his lap.

"Tabs into slots, huh. I can do that." The whole table roared with laughter; Claire and Justin blushed. After letting the muffins settle in their stomachs, it was tool time, the queer way.

Bobby showed Justin where the lumber was stored in the barn and the two of them began to bring and stack the lumber closer to the tree. John was examining the tree with Brian and recommended what branches needed to be pruned so that the treehouse would fit around the trunk. Brian listened carefully to John while keeping an eye on Justin. Justin occasionally had problems with his hand; Brian didn't want this experience to be marred by Justin getting hurt.

John had each piece of wood marked with an identifying number and corresponding letter, it was truly a matter of fitting the pieces together then securing them with nails and bolts. After several hours of sweaty work the tree was prepared and a scaffold was erected around it so that the need for ladders was kept at a minimum. John had spent many a year as a foreman; he kept his directions clear and concise so that even Emmett would have been able to follow them. His efforts were not lost on Brian.

Towards dinnertime, the boys decided they had done enough for the day. Claire announced that they had time to cool off at the stream before dinner was ready. John and Brian stowed away the tools safely on the porch as Bobby and Justin draped a protective tarp on the lumber, securing it with rocks. The four of them headed for the stream.

Just past the big rock where John and Brian had brooded over their situation weeks before, the stream widened and deepened enough to allow for swimming or in this case skinny dipping. Brian, never letting nudity embarrass him shed his sticky clothes and walked into the water. Turning toward the shore, he addressed the three stunned men staring at him.

"What?"

"Brian, you're naked." Justin said, stating the obvious and commenting loudly.

"Your point?"

"What if an alligator or something swims by; you could loose something vital."

"Justin, I don't think a Pennsylvanian stream is home to alligators."

"Snapping turtles," Bobby said softly.

"What!?"

"Not alligators, snapping turtles."

"Fuck!" Brian jumped and started toward the shore. John and Bobby cracked up, held up their hands to stop him, then began to shed their own clothes.

"Don't worry, I've played and swam in this stream all my life. I've never seen a snapping turtle."

"Thanks a lot, John."

"Got you back for that 'ping, ping, ping'."

"Yeah, you did." Brian snorted. John and Bobby swam out toward the middle, as Justin slowly removed his clothes.

"What's the matter, little boy? Worried about the turtles?"

"No."

"Not embarrassed, are you?"

"No."

"What, then?"

"Are you sure there aren't any alligators to bite me?" Justin smiled coyly.

"Come here, you. The only thing in this stream that could possibly endanger you is me."

"I think I may like you biting me."

"Then come closer, Sunshine, so I can take a real good bite."

"Oh yeah!" Justin walked into the stream and into Brian's waiting arms.

After splashing about for a half an hour, a small grove on the other shore caught Brian's eye. Brian swam toward it followed by Bobby. John and Justin went back to the other side in search of their clothes. Lying on the soft grass, they let the sun dry them off.

"Justin, why Sunshine?"

"That's a nickname Debbie gave me when we first met. Brian used to tease me with it and then it sort of stuck."

"Hmm." John was struck by Justin's innocent good looks and how the sun glinted off his hair.

"Hey, Sunshine! Bring that bubble butt over here." Brian bellowed through the trees. Justin looked at John, rolled his eyes as he put on his pants and sneakers then made his way through the thicket. John could see them. Brian was waiting there hiding something behind his back. As Justin approached, Brian presented him with a pretty bunch of colorful wild flowers. Looking down and with a blush to his tanned skin, Brian was fretting the response.

Justin gazed at the flowers. White daisies, yellow black-eyed susans, and purple wild violets, an artist's eye candy. Justin lived up to his name; his smile rivaled only by the sun. Justin kissed his flower toting hunky carpenter deeply, offering his gratitude for the flowers. Trying to avoid further sweating Brian retorted. "I thought we could put them in a vase. I know you have your sketch pad. Claire's walls are looking a little bare since she sold some of the paintings."

Justin knew exactly what Brian meant. Justin was so on to him. He nodded, "I think that's an excellent idea, Brian." Justin hugged Brian, "I'll work on it after dinner."

John, watching the little scene unfold, now understood Sunshine. Bobby, who had also witnessed the exchange, walked along the shore to join his lover. His deep auburn hair reflecting the sun's rays as the sun began to set on the horizon. "So beautiful," John murmured into Bobby's hair. "I love you." Bobby smiled his own sunny smile and melted into John's arms, echoing John's sentiments.

The lovers donned their clothes and went back to the house for dinner.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dinner was spent with some gentle teasing and finding out more about each other. Claire watched the newfound brothers marveling at how much they were alike and yet how different. Brian exuded sex and confidence. John was almost as good looking, but he was more subdued and quiet. Claire could see how Justin had brought Brian out of himself. She wondered what Brian might have been like without his little blond twink as he called Justin. Maybe he would be more like John, but she didn't really think so somehow. She could see the effect that Bobby had already had on her son. John seemed so much happier. Being true to his own nature had been so good and so freeing for John. He would have never been able to do that without Brian coming into their lives.

"So are you gentlemen headed out for an evening of fun?" Claire asked.

Brian groaned. "I used muscles today that I never knew I had. I think an early evening is in store for me."

"That's what happens when you get older," Justin grinned.

"Let's see what your ass says about that in an hour or so," Brian retorted.

Justin snorted. "Like you can even get it up."

"Gentlemen, I think that's my cue to go read a book … or something."

"Sorry, Claire," Justin said blushing. He had forgotten that she was even there.

"Good night, mother," John said giving her a kiss. Claire went up to her room leaving the dishes and clean-up for the men.

As they loaded the dishwasher and wiped the table, Brian asked, "Been to the Honey Bear lately, John?"

"Haven't needed to," John said pulling Bobby into his embrace.

"Getting enough at home?"

"More than enough."

"We should go while we're here this week."

"You think?" John said with a grin.

"I'll get Justin to teach you some dance moves."

"What about you?"

"I'm not much of a dancer," Brian admitted.

"Looked pretty hot to me when you two were on the dance floor at the Honey Bear."

"Justin's my inspiration. I just follow his lead. He was King of Babylon, you know."

Justin heard the touch of pride in Brian's voice and smiled. "Had to get your attention somehow."

"And look where that led," Brian said shaking his head.

"Right to your bed … permanently which is where I want to be right now," Justin said and headed for the stairs.

Brian immediately was on his way after him.

"You're such a wimp," John called.

"You don't know the half of it … but I wouldn't have it any other way." Brian hurried up the stairs to find his horny partner. He knew that tone of voice only too well. It would be an interesting night.

Never backing down from a challenge, Brian and Justin managed to do their part for water conservation and showered together. It was a cramped fit in the farmhouse's quaint little bathroom but they were victorious. No sex was had but each man was able to assist the other in removing the kinks from the hard work of the day. Drying each other off and putting on some shorts for modesty's sake, they retired to their room.

Sex was gentle and quiet that night, both preferring gentle lovemaking to conserve their energy for tomorrow and to give their screaming muscles a chance to recover. Justin fell asleep curled in Brian's arms.

John and Bobby also took a shower, donned sweat pants then went to relax in the screened porch sipping iced tea. It was still early and their muscles were fair better suited to manual labor than the sleeping beauties upstairs. The night was warm but not humid. They cuddled together on a swinging loveseat admiring the stars. After an hour or so they too, retired to their room.

Looks are so deceiving. Brian, the world's most notorious top, plays his part well. Only Justin is aware that under the right circumstances, when the planets align, the world has tilted off its axis or he has been rimmed beyond all that is imaginable, will Brian bottom.

John, on the other hand, loved to bottom. Both he and Bobby were versatile lovers, sharing the top and bottom role. But truth be known, John loved to bottom for Bobby.

Quietly they slipped into the king sized bed they share after easing out of their pants. Foreplay was a gentle slow affair to savor each other's taste and scent. After preparing John and putting on a condom, Bobby entered his lover, slowly rocking in and out. As they felt their climax mount, John pulled his lover down to kiss Bobby deeply. The friction of his cock against Bobby's hard abdomen triggered John's orgasm with Bobby following close behind. Catching their breath, Bobby eased out, removed the condom then helped John with the clean up. The two fell into a sated sleep.

Chapter 2

Early the next morning the men awoke to the aroma of Claire's fresh baked biscuits, coffee, steak and eggs. She was a woman on a mission to keep all four boys fed, happy and well prepared for another day of fun with power tools. Power tools, oh dear!

When breakfast was over Claire got ready to go to church. Brian winced when she said that was where she was off too. It brought back too many unpleasant memories of his mother's relationship with the church. But he had to admit that Claire never treated him with anything but respect, and she had never once made an issue of him being gay, or her own son for that matter. Once again he had to wonder what it would have been like to have Claire as his mother.

Claire came down the stairs with a little overnight bag.

"What are you doing, mother?" John asked.

"I'm going to Caroline's for a couple of days. I'm sure you gentlemen can fend for yourselves. There's plenty of food in the house, and you can do whatever you want to do without fear of offending me."

"Are you sure?" John asked. "This is your home."

"I'm sorry, Claire, if we've driven you away," Justin said.

"It's nothing like that," Claire said blushing. "I just feel like an old, straight, fogey, and I think you young people should have some time on your own."

"You're not old, Claire," Brian said. "You're aged to perfection."

"I can see why you're in advertising, you sweet talker, you," Claire said blushing. "But I'm still going."

"If you're sure, mother," John conceded.

"I'm sure. Caroline and I are going to go see a couple of movies and have a high old time."

"When will you be back?"

"I'll call in a couple of days."

With that Claire went to the Navigator and quickly drove off.

"I feel bad," Justin said.

"Well I don't," Brian replied.

"Briiaan," Justin responded.

"I mean it. Obviously all the fucking last night got on Claire's last nerve. Maybe she's gone to get some of her own," Brian smirked.

"Briiaaaan!" came from all three mouths.

"Let's get to work so we have lots of time for fucking later."

Despite their annoyance at Brian's somewhat callous comments, they all had to agree that it was rather freeing being on their own. Clad in shorts and T-shirts they made their way out to the tree.

"Two stories, huh?" Brian asked looking skeptically up into the tree.

"We can do it," John said.

"I'm glad you think so. You realize that you're going to be doing the majority of the work."

"Oh no, little bro', I have big plans for you."

Brian groaned. "I'm not sure I like the sound of that."

"Where's your helper?" John asked. Justin and Bobby were coming out of the barn with some tools.

"Hey, Tim the Tool Man Taylor, get over here?" Brian called.

Justin gave him the finger and then grinned, calling out, "Huh! Power, we need more power."

They all had a laugh as they got to work.

They assembled the tools and drew the tarp off the precut lumber. Their first task would be to get a level floor for the house. Brian and John climbed up onto the scaffolding while Justin and Bobby handed them the pieces of wood. Justin read the plans and told Bobby the number of the piece of wood they needed.

After some initial discussion Brian and John finally got one piece of the floor in place.

"At this rate, we'll be here till Christmas," Brian griped feeling hot and sweaty and cranky and horny as the noonday sun heated up everyone and everything.

"It'll get easier as we get the hang of it," John told him.

Brian looked down as Justin bent over to read the plans that he had laid out on the lawn and anchored down with some small rocks. Justin's ass was in his line of sight and the tool belt rested on those lovely globes. Brian let out a loud groan.

Justin stayed bent over but looked up to the source of the noise. "Uh oh, Bobby, I think we'll be taking a break now."

Bobby looked questioningly at him.

John turned to look and had to smile when he saw what Brian was looking at. "Didn't you get enough last night?"

"Never enough. Isn't it time for a break?"

John chuckled and shook his head. "We've only put up one board."

"I'll work better if I relieve some stress," Brian said. He quickly dropped down off the scaffolding and went over to Justin taking a cheek in each hand and giving them a gentle squeeze. "Mine," he almost moaned as John and Bobby watched in fascination. Brian hooked his finger in Justin's tool belt and led his mildly protesting and blushing partner towards the barn.

Once through the doorway in the relative cool of the dark barn Brian lifted Justin's shirt and pulled it over his head. He unbuckled the tool belt and let it drop to the floor.

"I thought you'd want me to wear that," Justin said with a little gasp as his tight shorts were unceremoniously shoved down over his erect cock.

"Been there, done that," Brian snapped. "Farmyard fun for you today, little boy."

Justin raised his eyebrows, but decided to say nothing until he saw what Brian had in mind.

Brian looked around the shadowy barn now that his eyes had become accustomed to being out of the bright sun. He saw Beau lying on his mat at the back. "We'll have an audience just like at Babylon," Brian smirked.

"We might traumatize the poor thing," Justin giggled. "Turn him gay."

Brian snorted and then he saw just what he wanted. Stacked along one side of the barn were hay bales forming steps as they got higher. Brian began removing his own clothes. He picked up a bale and set it on top of another. He threw his T-shirt on top. "Hop up," he said to Justin finding his lube and condom in his shorts.

Justin looked at Brian but then did as he was told. He sat on the T-shirt feeling the hay scratch the back of his legs. It felt different, but nice. Brian leaned down and kissed the red lips. He tipped Justin back and his lubed fingers found Justin's pucker as he continued the kiss. He could feel Justin squirm and buck beneath him and his knees rubbed against the hay bales. He raised Justin's legs to his shoulders and then slid on the condom.

Just then he heard a noise and looked around. John was setting up his own hay bales and Bobby was already on top.

"What took you so long?" Brian asked with a smirk.

"Had to get condoms and lube," John said suiting up his own dick.

"You should always be prepared," Brian said in his best professorial voice. "You waste too much potential fucking time if you're not." Even in the dim light John could see Brian's tongue planted firmly in his cheek. The brothers smiled at each other.

Brian entered Justin with no further ado. He rode his young partner for all he was worth eliciting the moans and gasps and cries that he relished creating. John and Bobby were making some interesting noises of their own.

Some time later when they were all through, Brian grabbed his T-shirt as Justin hopped down off the hay bales. He wiped Justin's chest and kissed his well satisfied partner.

"Back to work?" Brian said cheerfully feeling in a much better frame of mind now.

"Lunch," three voices stated.

"You know with you slackers we'll never get that treehouse built," Brian said as he ran from the barn naked being pelted with clothes and clumps of hay.

Beau ran with him barking and nipping at his heels.

"Stay away from my dick," Brian warned the dog as he made it to the screen porch and went inside to get fresh clothes.

"Is he always this incorrigible?" John asked Justin.

"You ain't seen nothin' yet," Justin said with a chuckle as naked they all followed Brian into the house.

Claire, indeed, had the refrigerator well stocked. The hard working boys found a varied selection of cold cuts and cheeses. There was crusty bread and rolls in the bread box waiting to be consumed. Each man found his favorite and built manly sandwiches. The boys ate in companionable silence. After lunch and dressed in fresh clothes the erecting of the treehouse began again.

John and Brian took their place on the scaffolding while Justin and Bobby handed up the planks. Brian had to admit that putting up the boards was going a lot easier since the first was in place and used as a guide. By the end of the day they had the whole balcony hammered and bolted into place and two sides of the railing done too. John declared it was enough for the day and suggested a cooling dip in the stream. When no objections were heard, the tool time men stowed the tools and covered the remaining planks.

Down by the stream, Brian was lying on his back with Justin on top of him, resting. Justin's head was neatly tucked under Brian's chin and he felt himself dozing as Brian gently kneaded the pale globes massaging away any tension said globes may have incurred from the fierce ride they experienced moments before. Emanating from the adjacent thicket Brian could hear the noises originating from his brother and lover. An indignant scowl accompanied a dramatic sigh. Justin lifted his head and noted the look.

"What is it?"

"He's a bottom." Brian stated with disgust.

"Huh?"

"My brother is a bottom. You'd think with my genes in him and everything I've taught him he'd be a top. Where did I go wrong?"

Justin wisely did not burst into laughter. "Brian, I know how important this is to you but bottom line, it really doesn't matter." Brian looked horrified as he gazed up into the wise blue eyes. "Top, bottom, it doesn't matter as long as we're together. They're happy Brian and that's what matters to them." Justin observed that Brian was breaking his "no languishing in the afterglow" rule and gently rubbed their cocks together to distract Brian from this latest dilemma. Getting a rise from both of them Brian flipped Justin over and readied himself for the next round. Justin needing no preparation, was stretched and ready to go, wrapped his legs around his lover. This round was quieter but no less rewarding. Brian pumped Justin's cock to climax then followed with his own. He collapsed on to Justin.

A few minutes later Brian was attempting to get up. "Stay Brian, you're not heavy."

"I think we better get up now."

"Why? Did you strain something?"

"No. Either I just became some bird's toilet or it's beginning to rain." Justin securely protected under Brian's long body didn't feel the droplets hitting Brian's back.

"Shit, it's raining."

"Can't we stay out here? It feels good." It did feel good. The rain was drawing out the humidity, but Brian wasn't sure if it was safe. Sure enough, John's voice wafted through the thicket.

"Come on, we'd better get to the house. Sometimes these storms bring lightning. We shouldn't stay out here." The brothers and their lovers gathered their clothes and sprinted back to the safety of the porch.

Justin and Bobby went indoors to prepare dinner while the brothers sat in the screened porch sipping beer. John noticed a sad expression on Brian's face that was slowly building into a panic.

"What is it Brian?"

"It's going to be ruined."

"What's going to be ruined?"

"The treehouse, the rain, won't it ruin the wood?" Brian was on the verge of a full emotional breakdown. The treehouse represented more than just a family project. Each piece of wood, each nail and bolt represented healing. As the treehouse took shape so was Brian's heart. John pulled Brian into his strong arms.

"Don't worry. The wood is treated and pressurized. Even unfinished it will last for a good twenty years. When painted or polyurethaned it will last even longer. You and Gus will have your treehouse."

As the rain washed away the stickiness of a hot summer's evening, their tears washed away the pain from two little boys. One who wished for a father all his life and one who wished his cruel father never existed.

Bobby and Justin witnessed the scene from the window. "Should we go out there?" Bobby asked.

"No, give them time; it'll be okay." Justin was an expert on Kinney queen outs and this time was no different. Given time both Kinney men recovered, straightened their shoulders and joined their lovers in the kitchen to help with dinner.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A little after ten o'clock Justin's Jeep pulled up in front of the Honey Bear. Justin, Brian, John and Bobby all piled out. They planned to have a few drinks and dance a bit before heading back to the farm. The rainstorm had passed by and the night was warm and humid.

They found a table and their waiter took the order for drinks. It was a Sunday night so the place wasn't too full. A couple of tables over was a group of four men who were obviously sizing up the contingent that had just arrived.

"Dance with me," Justin asked Brian. He stood up and tugged on Brian's arm.

"I need a drink first," Brian said.

"Come on," Justin wheedled.

Finally Brian grinned at his young partner and got up to do what Justin wanted. They moved onto the floor and started to bump and grind against each other. The other group of men watched with barely disguised lust.

Bobby leaned over to John, "That group is trouble. Keep your eye on them."

John nodded and turned his attention back to the dance floor. He couldn't believe how the two men exuded sex from every pore. All eyes in the joint were riveted on them, and he could almost see men drooling as they watched. Justin and Brian were oblivious to the attention. They only had eyes for each other as they melded together in a dance of pure sex. Finally the song ended and Brian dragged Justin back to where John and Bobby waited for them. Brian downed his drink and signaled the waiter for another one. He was feeling good. He didn't notice the worried look on Bobby's face.

Downing his second drink, Brian chuckled. "Here's a puzzle for you," he laughed. "How many homos does it take to build a treehouse?" They all stared blankly at him. "Five, because the four of us are so pathetic." Brian laughed at his own joke.

"That's not true," Justin said.

"We made good progress today," John stated, "and we'll get even more done tomorrow."

Brian snorted and signaled for another drink.

"Take it easy on the booze," Bobby warned.

"Why?" Brian asked. "Is it watered down or way too expensive?"

"You may want to keep your wits about you," Bobby cautioned nodding towards the group of men whose voices seemed to be getting louder and louder.

Brian shrugged and showed his disdain by downing the double Beam in one swig.

"Hey, Blondie," a voice said. "How about a dance?" They all pretended not to hear, but the voice called out again, "Blondie!"

"Are they talking to me?" Justin asked.

Bobby nodded. "Maybe we should leave."

"I'm not going anywhere," Brian said belligerently. "And that asshole better shut the fuck up."

Suddenly the man who had called out was standing beside Justin and his hand went around Justin's arm pulling the boy to his feet.

"Let go," Justin protested, but the man's grip tightened and he started to drag Justin to the dance floor.

Brian stood and stared at the idiot who had his hand on Justin. "How many homos does it take to break your fucking arm?"

"Huh?" the guy blinked.

"One, and this homo will do it for you … in five seconds, if you don't get your fucking hands off my partner."

The man looked at Brian not liking the look he saw on the man's face. He glanced back at his group of friends who shrugged and turned away, showing that they didn't want any part of a fight.

The guy released Justin who stepped back beside Brian. "I … didn't know he was your partner. I … um … just wanted a dance. No offense."

"Let's go," Brian said and they all headed towards the door. Brian dropped a fifty on the bar.

"You didn't have to do that, Brian," Justin said. "I would have made him let go."

"I did have to do it. Nobody messes with my partner," Brian stated clearly.

Justin smiled one of his radiant best and leaned in to kiss Brian. "Thanks," he whispered.

"Wait a minute," John stated loudly just before they reached the door. "We're not going anywhere." Turning and facing Brian, John questioned his cave man brother.

"Do you promise to behave yourself and stick to beer if we go back and sit down? I came here to dance with MY partner and we live here. I'm not going to let some backwoods fag drive me out of my own place and Bobby works here. I'm sure he can handle any undue attention."

Brian saw the look of determination in his older brother and beamed with pride. "Yes, I promise to tone it down. And you're right; if anyone should leave it should be them. I won't cause any trouble." The brothers nodded at each other then looked to their partners for affirmation. The younger men looked at each other, shrugged then led their he-men back to their table.

The rest of the evening went smoothly. Brian got John and Bobby to dance a slow one together then John asked Justin to dance. Justin kept his head about him, remembering that this look-a-like was not Brian. Theirs was a sweet dance without touching. When the music changed to something fast and furious, John sat down and was replaced by Bobby. The twinks were hopping and a delicious site to behold. Bubble butts were swaying and the candlelight reflected off the gold and red hair. John and Brian smugly watched their partners; they would get to go home with them. The music changed again to something hot, John and Brian got up and claimed their twinks. Brian holding Justin close to his chest sent a warning glare into the crowd. Justin closed his eyes and let Brian lead him around. John, a very fast learner, pressed up against Bobby and kissed the flaming red hair. He sent out his own glare. No summer shower would be able to put out the fire the two couples were burning.

After their hot dance the four boys sipped their beers. Brian, as promised behaved and nursed the one beer until the bartender called out for 'last call.' Unbeknownst to Brian and Justin the last round was signaled by the last dance. Out of the speakers came the all too familiar song, 'Save the Last Dance For Me'. A look of pain washed across Brian's face. John and Bobby didn't understand but were ready to give comfort if needed. Justin stopped them with a look and offered his hand to Brian. Brian gazed at the proffered pale hand and allowed himself to be lead back to the dance floor. They took up their places and danced. It was awe inspiring. Justin still had no memory of his moves that night but with his instincts intact and Brian's expert lead they alone danced together having the whole floor to themselves. When the dance ended Justin kissed his man and held on.

Brian drew strength from Justin. The Honey Bear exploded with applause, even the group of upstarts that had threatened to mar the lovers' good time. John paid the tab then led the shaky lovers back to the Cherokee.

The ride home was quiet but not all unpleasant. They parked the Cherokee then headed for their rooms. Before retiring John was able to get Justin alone for a minute.

"What was that all about, that dance with you and Brian?"

"It's a long story. Tomorrow, suggest that I help you on the scaffold or send Brian to the hardware store and I'll tell you all about it." John nodded and then they went to bed.

In John and Bobby's room, John felt the need to take the top role. He was caught unawares with his own feelings of protectiveness towards Bobby. His lovemaking was passionate and all consuming. Bobby was left with no doubt about how John felt about him. Bobby responded to each pounding thrust with an 'I love you.'

Justin, taking the lead, reassured Brian with a myriad of kisses. He helped the slightly shell shocked Brian out of his clothes and put him to bed. Stripping off his own clothes, Justin crawled in and covered the two of them with the sheet. Brian turned and faced away from Justin not wanting to share his pain with his boy. Justin held Brian close, spooning up against Brian's cool back.

"I love you, Brian." Justin whispered, squeezing one arm under Brian and wrapping the other around Brian's heaving chest. Justin whispered 'I love you,' again and again until the heaving stopped and Brian was calm.

"Justin."

"Hmm."

"Make love to me."

Without hesitation, Justin complied, making love to his cave man with a passion equaled only by Brian. Afterwards, the lovers fell into a deep sated sleep.

Chapter 3

Since Claire had not yet returned and John was quite used to getting up with the birds, he started breakfast. The other three men awakened to the sounds of pans banging and John shouting out orders from the bottom of the stairs.

"Up! Up, you lazy bums or I'll fire the lot of you and hire some of those guys from the Honey Bear. Let's go!"

John burst into a fit of laughter as he heard the cursing and the stumbling of three pairs of feet hitting the floor and searching for clean clothes. Bobby was the first down the stairs and that earned him a resounding kiss to his lips. Justin was next and was rewarded with a peck to his cheek and a mug of tea. Brian came down next, still cursing and mumbling for coffee which was gratefully put in his hand by Justin. John looked at his rag tagged carpenters and shook his head in disbelief.

"What a sorry bunch of fags you all are. Eat and we'll discuss our plans for today."

Caffeine and a hearty breakfast did the trick. The treehouse gang was ready to face the day.

As they moved outside John remembered what Justin had said last evening. "Hey, little bro', we need some three inch screws," John said.

"Nine inch screws are better," Brian retorted pinching Justin's ass.

"Metal ones, stainless steel," John said with an exasperated chuckle. Brian's sarcasm was funny but he still wasn't used to having his orders tossed off with a joke.

"And you would be telling me this because…?" Brian asked.

"Because I want you to get in the Jeep and go to the hardware store in Harrisburg."

"Me? Why me?"

"I think it's time you learned where materials come from. Your carpentry skills are improving but I don't feel that you have a true appreciation of the art of building."

"And I 'm going to gain this appreciation at a hardware store in Harrisburg?" Brian snarked.

"You never know."

"Shouldn't you go? You're the one who knows what you want."

"I wouldn't want to deprive you of the experience of touring Smitty's Hardware on Main Street."

"Touring? Are you fucking nuts?"

"Just go. See if you don't like it," John said.

"Go, Brian. You never know what life holds in store for you," Justin encouraged his partner.

"So you're all going to gang up on me, I see. You too, Bobby?"

"You should go. It's a neat place," Bobby agreed.

"I do like neat," Brian admitted with a chuckle.

"More like … immaculate," Justin said with a grin.

Brian kissed him and sighed. "How many fucking three inch stainless steel screw do you want?" He shook his head with a good natured grin on his face.

"Three dozen ought to do it," John said.

"Will I have to float a loan to buy these things?"

"Should be under twenty dollars."

"I think I can handle that. I'll be back in a couple of hours. Don't do anything I would do, and don't wear that tool belt for anybody else, Sunshine."

Justin kissed his man and Brian grabbed his wallet from the house. He peeled off down the driveway. The three men watched him go.

"Let's set the lumber we'll need for today up on the balcony and then you can tell me your story, Sunshine," John grinned.

They formed a chain and quickly had all the pieces for the floor of the main building up in the tree. They needed the screws that Brian was getting to attach the planks to the tree and then to each other.

"I'm surprised you don't have the right screws," Justin said to John. "You seem to have everything else."

"I have them," John smirked. It was the same smirk that Justin had seen on Brian's face many times.

"So you sent Brian off on a wild goose chase?" Justin grinned. "He better never find out."

"I'm not planning on telling him. Are you, Bobby?"

"I heard what he said to that guy who strong armed you last night," Bobby said. "I don't think I want to be on Brian's bad side."

"He's really a pussycat," Justin said with a smile.

"And pussycats, especially big ones, have claws," Bobby added.

"True," Justin admitted.

"So what's the story about that dance?" John asked.

They were now seated in the screen porch with glasses of iced tea.

"It's not a pretty story," Justin said with a frown.

"Why didn't you want Brian around when you told it?" Bobby asked.

"It still freaks him out."

"He did look kind of shell shocked when they played that song," John said.

"They played it at my high school prom," Justin said getting a faraway look in his eyes. "Brian came to my prom and we danced to that song."

"That's so romantic," Bobby said. "I would never have asked a boy to my prom even though I wanted to."

"It didn't turn out as romantic as you might think," Justin grimaced. "In fact I don't remember any of it."

"What do you mean, Justin?" John asked.

"Chris Hobbs, this homophobic jock from my school, bashed my head in with a baseball bat. Brian and I had gone to the parking garage and Hobbs snuck up behind me and hit me."

"Where was Brian?" Bobby asked.

"That's part of the problem. Brian had got into his car. I was going back inside to make sure that my date, Daphne, got home all right. Hobbs hit me before Brian could stop him. Brian has never forgiven himself for failing to protect me, as he calls it. He saved my life by calling out to me. The doctors said I would have been dead if Hobbs had hit me at another angle. I guess I was meant to live."

"Were you seriously hurt?" John asked.

"I was in a coma for several days and then rehab for months. I had panic attacks for a long time. My right hand is screwed up. It goes into spasm if I overuse it."

"Fuck!" John reacted.

"I'm so sorry," Bobby said.

"I'm okay, more or less. But Brian feels this overwhelming need to look after me, keep me safe. That's why he got so freaked when that guy was manhandling me."

"Remind me never to touch you," Bobby said.

"I don't think he's worried about you, Bobby, but John's another story," Justin said suppressing a giggle. John's eyebrows shot up. "Just kidding," Justin chuckled.

"Shall we make lunch for the wanderer when he returns?" John asked breathing a sigh of relief.

"That's the least we can do for the man when he returns from his wild goose chase," Bobby giggled.

By the time they had lunch almost ready Brian drove up the lane. He got out of the Jeep and opened the back waiting for everyone to come out of the house. He sat on the tailgate with a smirk on his face.

"Have a good trip?" John asked innocently.

"Very," Brian replied. "Help me unload all this stuff."

"What stuff?" Justin asked.

Brian started handing it out describing each item as he did so. He had purchased sleeping bags, two big ones and one small, for Gus, himself and Justin. He had a large battery-powered lantern to place in the treehouse. He had bought a little table and two chairs that would suit the little boy in his house in the air. When Brian was finished unloading all these things, they carried them into the barn to store them until the treehouse was finished.

"Gus is going to be so surprised," Justin chuckled. "He may set up residence in the tree and we'll never get him down."

"Me too," Brian laughed. Justin elbowed him gently.

"So you liked Smitty's I take it?" John smirked.

"Not bad," Brian said. That was high praise.

"Where are the screws you went for?"

"Smitty said not to bother. He remembered you had bought several dozen last week."

"Really?" John said trying to look innocent.

"He was sure you had sent me to check out the store. He appreciated all the business and I enjoyed a little retail therapy."

"You're not mad?" John asked. Brian grinned and shook his head. "That's good." John decided not to say anymore. He didn't think Brian would want to know what they had talked about while he was gone. "Lunch is almost ready."

"Good. I'm starved," Brian said throwing his arm over Justin's shoulder. "All this fresh air and manual labor and fucking into the wee small hours of the night makes a man hungry."

John watched them head to the house. He understood his little brother a bit more, but he was sure there was much, much more still to learn.

After lunch, progress on the treehouse moved quickly. Since a lot of the wood was up on the balcony level, Bobby and Justin were able to finish off the railing while John and Brian worked on the support beams for the second level. They were able to put up several planks for the floor before it got too dark to work. The treehouse gang jumped down from the scaffolding and stepped back to admire their work.

"Wow!" Justin exclaimed, "It's really taking shape."

"Yeah, I can't believe we're doing this and it hasn't fallen down yet." Brian added.

"Oh ye of little faith. When I design something, it stays up until I pull it down." John boasted.

"Well, big bro, I have to admit, you know what the hell you're doing. If Justin and I ever decide to move out of the loft, you'll build our house."

Justin beamed a smile toward Brian and sent a wink to John. Wisely, no one made any comments about Brian's slip of the tongue.

"I think we have time for a dip in the stream before dinner," Bobby suggested and received grunts of agreements from his companions. "Instead of cooking, how about I call out for a couple of pizzas. They make a decent pizza in town and given the right encouragement they'll deliver, even out here." They all conceded that they were a little tired to cook, so pizza sounded like an excellent idea. Bobby went in the house to make the call while John, Brian and Justin headed toward the stream.

John and Justin immediately dropped their clothes and swam out to the middle. Brian splashed a little at the shore while watching his brother and lover swim. With the feeling of satisfaction that hard work produced, he lay in a patch of warm grass. Within minutes Brian was asleep.

The sun was dipping on the horizon, when John and Justin headed for the shore to get their clothes. As they approached John indicated to Justin to move quietly. Near the edge they saw the sleeping Brian. John pointed to something that was hopping toward the sleeping queen. A big dark green bullfrog was about to stake his claim on Brian's patch of grass and call out for a mate. John and Justin squelched their laughter as the stirring Brian, feeling that he was being watched, turned his head toward the intruder.

Hazel eyes widened in horror as dark frog eyes stared back.

"Holy fucking shit!" Brian jumped up and ran for the safety of the house leaving his sneakers behind and John and Justin holding their sides as their hysterical laughter threatened to split them open. They walked back to the house attempting to get control over themselves before facing Brian. John and Justin were relatively successful until, of course, they saw Brian leaning on the screen door gasping for breath. Their mirth was then uncontrollable.

"Very funny. Have a good laugh at my expense. I could have been slimed to death and then where would you be," Brian stated in all sincerity.

Justin and John looked at each other then at Brian and immediately broke into laughter that brought both men to tears. Brian glared back, highly insulted and huffed his way into the house.

Dinner was pleasant and for the most part quiet until someone looked at Brian and started to snicker. At one point, having quite enough of being the comic relief, Brian took his pizza and beer and went to sulk on the porch. Scarfing down his pizza, Justin went to join him. Cautiously opening the screen door, Justin ventured into the lion's den.

"You still mad at me?"

"You gonna laugh at me again?"

"No, I won't laugh. And I wasn't laughing at you. I was laughing at the situation. The look on your face was adorable."

"I don't do adorable."

"Priceless, then. So can I stay out here with you?"

"Yeah." Brian scooched over on the loveseat swing to make room for Justin. Justin sat and leaned into Brian as Brian put his arm around his shoulder. After a few quiet moments Justin quipped. "Slimed to death?"

"Justin, did you get a good look at that thing? That was one big frog. I could've been covered in slime." Brian shuddered at the thought. Justin patted Brian's thigh. "At the very least, I think I'm scarred for life. I'll never be able to watch the Animal Planet with you again without reliving the trauma."

Justin nodded and continued to offer his silent support. Justin let his queen, er, man, ramble on about the big bad frog until Brian was totally rambled out.

By moonlight, the lovers were able to make out the structure of the treehouse. "Brian, the treehouse is going to be amazing. I'm so proud of you."

"Me? It was you and your tenacity that got us here. You and your Sunshine File. None of this would ever have happened without it."

The lovers gently rocked in the swing until they were too tired to keep their eyes open.

"Come on, Sunshine, time for bed. We still have a lot more work to do and we need our rest."

The lovers went back into the house, bid John and Bobby a goodnight and went to bed. John and Bobby had cleaned up dinner and were also ready for bed. With the house secured for the night, they too retired.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday morning brought gray skies but the clouds did not dim the tool men's determination for hard work. Arising early, they ate a light breakfast, broke out the tools and headed up the tree.

"John, after the scaffolding comes down, how are we supposed to get up and down this thing?"

"Very good question. See these two gaps in the sections of railing? I will make gates and there will be a ladder on one side and a slide on the other. I think Gus will have a great time sliding down. Call it a quick getaway."

Justin's face lit up with delight at the thought of sliding down out of the treehouse. "Gus won't be the only one sliding." Brian observed.

The four men found an easy working rhythm. By lunch, the floor, complete with trap door and steps leading to and from the balcony level and infrastructure was finished. Tacking up a copy of the plans to one post, John explained the next phase of construction to his men. As they descended the scaffolding, a truck was pulling up the drive.

"Ah, just in time." John said with a grin. "Just lean them against the porch," John called out. The delivery men waved at John and followed his instructions.

"What's all this?" Justin asked as John went over to greet his delivery.

"I have no idea," Brian answered. "I guess we should find out."

With its cargo unloaded and the delivery men well tipped, the truck drove off.

"Windows? You had windows made for the treehouse?" Brian stated with amazement.

"And a door. It does get chilly at night sometimes and you don't want to share your sleeping bag with mosquitoes. The plans called for windows and a door. I had them custom made."

"John, this goes above and beyond brotherliness."

"Maybe, but Gus is my nephew, I'd like him to have the best."

Justin, listening to the exchange between the brothers, offered his opinion. "I think he already has the best." Simultaneously the brothers blushed and dipped their heads. Before embarrassment could take over, John's Navigator pulled up and Claire got out.

"Mom! I'm glad you're back."

"Got tired of doing all the cooking?" Claire asked and then stopped in her tracks when she saw what the boys had accomplished thus far. "It's incredible! You've done a wonderful job. I'm so proud of all of you. This calls for a special dinner. After lunch, I'll get started baking."

There was no stopping Claire and the boys wouldn't dream of it anyway. Quickly eating lunch, the boys were anxious to get the walls up before dinner.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Claire noted that Brian and Justin were a little subdued as they were getting cleaned up for dinner.

"What's the matter Brian?"

"I thought we'd make better progress by now."

"Brian, you're making great progress."

"Thank you Claire, but I was hoping the walls would be up by now. We spent the whole afternoon putting up more scaffolding."

Claire, who had been around while John was learning his trade knew that this was a necessary step in the process. "Brian, did you think you were going to stand on ladders to put up the walls. I know you're disappointed but the scaffolding is important so you all can work safely. Believe me, I worry a lot when John is on a big job. Accidents happen when you rush through something. Working safely is more important than working fast."

Brian conceded Claire's point but it made his disappointment no less real. "You'll see. Tomorrow not only will the walls go up but I bet the roof will be done and some windows installed."

Brian brightened; his mind's eye could see it happening. Kissing Claire on the cheek, he thanked Claire for her wisdom.

Claire had been very busy while the boys were putting up the scaffolding. A roast beef was resting on the sideboard along with several pies and fresh baked biscuits. There were also steamed vegetables and chilled summer fruit for dessert. The ravenous construction workers dove into dinner and ate with gusto.

Quietly enjoying dessert on the porch, Claire stated with a straight face, "Brian, I hear you've been enjoying our local fauna." Brian scowled, the furrows in his brow deepened as the quiet night was disrupted by the eruption of laughter.

Chapter 4

After Claire retired the men sat around in the screen porch and talked for a while. They all agreed that the following day they should be able to get most of the treehouse finished, and maybe even the windows in. Then all that was left was the paint job.

As the night wore on Justin snuggled against Brian. "Meet you in the barn," he whispered.

Brian grinned. "I need to get some things from the bedroom first," Brian replied.

"I'll be waiting," Justin said softly as he made his way outside.

Brian nodded at Bobby and his brother and headed upstairs for condoms and lube.

"Why don't we join them?" Bobby asked with a grin.

"You think…?" John asked.

"I think."

"Okay. It was hot the other day when we were all in there together."

"Get the supplies," Bobby said. "I'll be waiting in the barn."

John gave him a kiss and went inside. He passed Brian coming down the stairs. Brian seemed to be in quite a hurry and barely acknowledged his brother's presence.

Meanwhile in the barn Justin was naked and Bobby was fast approaching that condition.

"Let's have a little fun with them," Bobby suggested as he divested himself of his underwear.

"What do you mean?" Justin asked immediately interested.

"You pretend to be me and I'll pretend to be you. It's so dark in here that they will never know the difference … at least not at first."

"I don't know," Justin said with a frown.

"Come on. It'll be hilarious and we'll tell them before anything really happens."

Justin thought for a minute. He wondered if Brian would be able to tell the difference even in the dark. He and Bobby were about the same size. "Okay, but we stop before anything happens."

Bobby nodded. He went to one side of the barn and Justin went to the other. Beau watched them from his mat wondering what the crazy humans were up to this time.

A moment later Brian appeared in the doorway. He began pulling off his clothes. "Justin," he said into the gloom of the barn.

"Over here," Bobby whispered stifling a giggle.

Brian headed in that direction just as John appeared and said, "Bobby."

Justin replied sweetly. "I'm here, lover."

Brian and John exchanged a glance and each headed for their partner.

Brian's arms came around the slender body and he pulled his lover back against him, making sure the young man could feel his hardness. His lover groaned in anticipation as Brian nibbled at his neck and his ear and his shoulder.

"I'm going to fuck you so hard," Brian snarled. "Bend over." He was already suiting up.

"Wait," the young man said.

"I'm in no mood to wait." He pressed his well lubed dick against the waiting pucker.

"Wait. It's me Justin. Bobby's over there, John."

"It's me Brian," Brian chuckled against his ear and drove his dick unceremoniously up his partner's ass.

Justin cried out as Brian waited for his lover to adjust to the sudden intrusion. "How did you know, Brian?"

"You think after all these years I wouldn't recognize your whisper?"

"Oh."

"And furthermore, if I hadn't got it from the whisper, your ass would give you away every time."

"Ooohhh," Justin breathed as Brian started to thrust.

"No more games, little boy. Get that ass up in the air for me. I'm going to make you beg so much."

"Yes, sir," Justin replied as Brian began to thrust in earnest.

Some time later the barn was filled with cries and moans and groans as all four men sought satisfaction. Justin was covered in sweat and he was pleading for Brian to get him off or finish or something. Brian showed no mercy pummeling the sweet ass. As his orgasm built and he knew this would have to end soon, he pulled Justin back against him so that the boy was fully impaled.

"You knew it was me all along, didn't you?" he whispered against Justin's ear.

Justin smiled. "Of course I did. Nobody touches me like you do."

Brian grabbed Justin's dick and began stroking. Within moments they were both coming and crying out each other's name.

John and Bobby weren't far behind. Beau put his paws over his ears. Crazy humans! He wondered when they would leave his peaceful barn and he could have a nap.

"Let's take a dip in the stream," Justin said as Brian pulled out.

"Are you nuts? I'm not getting slimed in the dark."

Laughter rang through the barn.

"Race you to the bathroom," Brian called and took off for the house. Justin ran after him.

"They are a lot of fun," John said wrapping his arm around Bobby.

Bobby nodded. "Did you know Justin and I were trying to fool you two?"

"Yep. I know you pretty well too. Maybe not as well as Brian knows Justin, but I also know that you like to play games."

"True," Bobby admitted with a grin.

"Come on, old man. Let's get in our shower before they use all the hot water."

John took his lover's hand and they walked towards the house.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bright and early the treehouse gang was up and out, the treehouse so close to completion, each man was anxious to get started. Claire called out to tell them that breakfast would be ready within the hour. It was good to have her back. Not only did it relieve the men from the cooking chores but they were beginning to feel guilty that they had inadvertently driven her away.

Again the men formed a chain to hoist the wood up to the uppermost scaffold so that the walls could be erected. With all the supplies up the tree, it was all hands on deck. They managed to get the first plank hammered into place before Claire called for breakfast.

Brian let out a frustrated groan. He didn't care about eating; Brian wanted to work. His companions convinced Brian that he'd work a lot longer with food in him. Begrudgingly, he let himself be led down the scaffold and into the kitchen. Breakfast was abundant as well as pleasant with conversation.

"John, is it possible to have a pulley system attached to one of the limbs. This way if you wanted to bring up snacks or something you didn't have to carry it up. A rope over the pulley attached to a bucket would do the trick."

John beamed at Brian, he was thinking similar thoughts. Gus was still little and he preferred the boy pay attention to the placement of his feet and not worry about carrying anything. John nodded his approval. "I'm sure that can be arranged, Brian."

After breakfast the boys sprinted out and up. Using the first plank as level, the subsequent planks fell easily into place. Brian watched with a perplexed expression on his face. They had left the door space open but they covered the windows with the planks. Chuckling at his brother's obvious conundrum, John firmly stated, "Watch and learn."

"Ready!" John called out to Claire who waved back at her son as he disappeared into the treehouse trailing a long extension cord behind him. All of a sudden small wood planks began to drop off the sides of the treehouse. Using the inside framing as a guide John was cutting out the windows. Within minutes he was done. Standing like a soldier with his power saw proudly in his hand, John further explained, "And we can use the cut pieces for the walls inside under the windows. They're just the right size." John blushed deeply as he received a heartfelt round of applause from the treehouse gang and Claire. Even Beau added his own bark of approval.

John chose a slightly peaked roof so that rain would run off. Instead of a gabled roof, two triangular pieces of wood were hammered into place on two opposing ends. The roof which was specially treated ply wood and pre-tarpapered would fit neatly on top, with allowance for the truck of the tree. The raising of the roof was completed as Claire called for lunch.

Hungry but anxious to get back to work the men ate quickly and quietly. Not to be rude Justin offered to stay behind and help Claire with the clean up, but he was shooed out of her kitchen and told to join the others. It was time for the windows, doors and the inside walls. There was also a matter of the rails for the balcony that was in front of the door and ran along one side. It was wide enough for chair or cushion for someone to survey their kingdom.

John stood at the base of the scaffolding and looked up. The windows were pint sized but still heavy, the door cumbersome. After learning about Justin and the lingering effects to his hand, John regretted not bringing home a cherry picker for this phase of the project.

Seeing the wheels turn in his brother's head, Brian offered at suggestion. "Do you have a good length of heavy rope?"

"Yes."

"Get it. That limb over that side looks thick and strong. We can toss the rope over it. You tie it around a window. Bobby and I will pull it up. Justin can stand on the balcony level to guide us."

"You know, if you ever want a new career in construction, call me. That's an excellent idea."

John went off to find the rope while Brian, Justin and Bobby brought the windows and the door closer to the treehouse. Bobby, Brian and Justin again ascended the scaffolding to their levels. Brian was able to toss the rope over the intended target and its coiled end fell in front of John's feet. The door went up first, followed by the windows. After an hour of grunting and groaning, the windows and door were ready for installation. It was a matter of inserting the windows into the frames then hammering the window frames into the walls. John had chosen a simple window that slid up and down, easy for a certain young man to open. After showing Brian what to do, John went to tackle the door.

By 6 o'clock that evening the treehouse was 95% completed.

They dined that night on roasted chicken, potatoes and several different vegetables. This time Brian's offer to assist Claire with the clean up was gratefully accepted. John took that opportunity to fill in Bobby and Justin on the finishing touches for the treehouse. Justin wanted to paint a mural on the inside walls so he wanted a couple of smooth surfaces. John who was going to use the remaining planking to line the walls did some recalculations to give Justin his smooth walls. He had some sheet rock and left over insulation. The bottom quarter of the wall would be planking, the top part the sheet rock. John had primer paint and some tester pots. Taking a flashlight with them John showed Justin the paints that were stored in a special cupboard in the barn. Leaving the artist with the torch to look over the paint, John returned to the house in search of his partner.

Claire and Brian were sipping coffee in the kitchen. She had managed to slip a plate of cookies in front of him and without thinking Brian began to nibble on one.

"Brian, I've heard how you met Debbie and Michael and I know that you consider her your mother but I was wondering about Joan. Would you tell me about her?" Brian dreaded any conversation about Joan and was about to get up and run. But Claire deserved to know about the woman who took away her Jack. Steeling himself with another bite of cookie, Brian began his story about Joan.

"There's really not much to tell other than what you already know. I guess Joan must have cared about Jack at some point but by the time I was born Jack beat that out of her. I guess she tried to protect me as best as she could but she never was very strong and she drank a little too much. She spent most of her time trying to stay out of Jack's reach. I did my best too. I hung out at school and joined whatever after school activity I could find. Joined the soccer team. I was very good at it, got me a scholarship to Penn State. When I was sixteen, I left home. Spent most of my time at Debbie's. She tried her best with me, loves me as much as she loves Mikey. But by that time I had grown cold and hard. She couldn't reach me."

"What did?"

"What do you mean?"

"What reached you?"

"Justin. I don't know if you noticed but he can be annoyingly tenacious when he wants to be. The little twat. I have no idea what he saw in me. If you think I'm rough around the edges now you should have seen me before Justin got his little hands on me. My arrogance works for me in my business. If I believe in myself and the campaign I'm selling, the client will believe it too. But aside from business that attitude has no place in regular life. Justin's nickname is Sunshine and he lives up to it. My name was 'Asshole.' And I certainly lived up to that one. You can ask any of my tricks on Liberty Avenue."

"Joan knows about your lifestyle?"

"She found out a few years ago. Caught me and Justin in a compromising situation so to speak. She was horrified and swore I'd go to hell. She spends a lot of time praying for my soul. Poor Justin's coming with me."

"Don't I always. Oops, sorry Claire I didn't know it was you in here with Brian."

"That's okay Justin. No need to apologize. I'm beginning to get used to the vernacular. But I don't think I'm quite as open as Debbie."

"Who is?!" Brian and Justin said in unison. Then they all laughed. "Debbie saved me. I don't know what I would have done without her or Brian."

"She's a regular Mother Theresa sometimes. I know she'll eventually open up a home for wayward homos, I know she will." Brian quipped with his tongue in cheek.

"Yeah, and I know what her first rule will be."

"No tricks after midnight!" Justin and Brian said together and then laughed until they snorted. Claire was then assaulted by all the Debbie stories Brian and Justin could muster. Most were hysterical if not unbelievable. But it was clear how well loved she was by these two men and how much of a positive influence she was in their lives. Claire was saddened that Joan and Craig disassociated themselves from Brian and Justin. Claire couldn't dream of not speaking to her son, no matter what happened between them. She was happy that her relationship with John was secure and strong. By the end of the evening Claire learned a lot about Brian and his life and about Justin.

"Justin, I'd love to meet your mother and your sister. I'd love to plan another barbecue when the treehouse is ready for its unveiling. Do you think your mother and sister would join us?"

"I think they'd come. I will certainly ask."

"Good, then we can have a real family get together." That statement brought smiles from all. Just then Bobby walked into the kitchen with John in tow. "It's karaoke night at the Honey Bear. We worked so hard today, we could do with some entertainment." The brothers and Justin agreed. Brian and Justin went upstairs to clean up and put on some clubbing duds. Their appearance begat appreciative gasps from John and Bobby.

"You two need to get out of the country more often if you think what we're wearing is impressive. Justin, why don't you try to convince Bobby to bring John to Pittsburgh next Friday? We'll take them shopping then go to Babylon. They'll be the hottest couple there, after us of course." Justin nodded and followed Brian out to the Cherokee with John and Bobby close on their heels.

"What's Babylon?"

"I have no idea but I guess we're going to find out next Friday."

Settled in at the Honey Bear Brian was soon feeling no pain. He continually ordered another round. Justin decided that one of them had to be sober to drive home, so he told their waiter to bring him water whenever he replenished their drinks.

Brian, John and Bobby were well on their way to being plastered. They had been hooting and hollering at the poor saps who had tried the karaoke. Brian told John about the rock band he and Michael had started. John couldn't believe this was another thing his precocious brother had done.

Suddenly the music changed and they played "Heartbreak Hotel", the old Elvis song. Brian grinned. If I can get them to play the right song will you come and sing with me?" he asked John.

"I'm no singer," John protested.

"It's an easy song," Brian slurred. He leaned into John and whispered the name of the song he wanted to do.

John grinned and nodded. Brian went to the guy running the karaoke and told him what song he wanted. Brian turned and waved John up onto the stage. Justin cringed. He had no idea what Brian was doing. He had never really heard Brian sing. He wondered just how much of a fool Brian was going to make of himself.

The two brothers swayed slightly as they waited for the music to start. Other patrons hooted and cheered them on, hoping for a really awful show from the two gorgeous men standing on the stage.

"Baby, let me be, your lovin' teddy bear.

Put a chain around my neck and lead me anywhere

Baby, let me be … your teddy bear

I don't want to be you tiger

Because tiger's play too rough

I don't want to be your lion

Because lions ain't the kind you'll love enough.

Just let me be … your lovin' teddy bear.

Put a chain around my neck and lead me anywhere.

Baby, let me be … your teddy bear."

Brian took the main vocal and John did his share of the dumdadumdas and other background. Both men did their best Elvis hip swivels until the audience was practically drooling.

Once Justin got over his initial amazement, he had to admit that the brothers were pretty damn good. He and Bobby bopped along with the song enjoying the suggestive performance.

When the song ended, several audience members volunteered to be the brothers' teddy bears. Justin and Bobby quickly moved to capture their rather drunk partners and bring them back to their table. Brian and John downed another round and called for more.

Brian leaned into Justin and whispered. "You're my teddy bear. You know that, don't you?"

"I know, Brian," Justin giggled. Brian's warm breath in his ear went straight to his dick. "It's time to go home and take your teddy bear to bed."

That's exactly what the karaoke stars did. And lovely teddy bears they each had!

Chapter 5

The next morning everyone except Justin was very hung over. However, Claire brewed strong coffee and got them to eat something. That along with several bottles of aspirin and they were ready to climb the scaffolding.

Work went quickly using all the things they had worked out the day before. The windows and doors were installed and John got the inside of the treehouse completed with drywall on one side and planks on the others. Justin knew exactly what he wanted to paint on the drywall section.

All that remained was for the slide and ladder to be installed and the decision about whether to paint the treehouse or let it weather naturally. There was a big argument about that. John and Bobby thought the wood should be allowed to weather. It would look somewhat like the trunk of the tree after a few years. Brian and Justin liked the idea of painting it green so that it blended in with the foliage and would last a few years longer. No consensus seemed to be reached until Brian had a major queen out stating this fucking treehouse had been his idea and had come about because of his hard work and that it was for his son, so he bloody well wanted it the way he wanted it.

Brian stomped off for a smoke and Justin and Bobby cajoled John into letting Brian have his way. One drama queen was bad enough but two was almost more than the twinks could handle.

When Brian finally returned, John told him they would paint the treehouse, but they would have to go to Smitty's for more paint. He hadn't been planning on painting the treehouse, so he didn't have the proper paint.

Justin wanted to paint his mural and Bobby agreed to paint the background for him. He would stay and help wherever he could. John and Brian drove off to the hardware store, promising to return quickly with the paint and some varnish to cover Justin's mural and preserve it after it was finished.

"I wonder what Brian will buy this time," Bobby chuckled as he covered the drywall with a base coat.

"God only knows," Justin chuckled. "Does Smitty's sell miniature designer sofas?"

"I don't think so," Bobby giggled.

"Good, otherwise we'd be hoisting one up here when they get back."

By the time the brothers returned Justin and Bobby had the base coats for the mural on and almost dry. Justin was drawing what he wanted to paint on top of the almost dry undercoat.

"Justin," Brian called. "I'm coming up."

"No, you're not!" Justin said emphatically. "Nobody comes in here until I'm done."

"But I bought something for the treehouse," Brian replied. "I want to see what it looks like."

Justin groaned. "What the fuck did you buy?"

"I'm not telling if you won't let me bring it up."

"Then I guess we'll both have to wait," Justin said organizing his paints.

"Fuck!" Brian said wanting to try out his new purchase.

By the end of the day Justin had his mural completed and thought it turned out just fine. He invited Brian to come up. The others had spent the day painting the treehouse and were tired but pleased with what they had accomplished. Brian carefully made his way up asking John to attach his purchase to the pulley so it could be hauled up.

Brian's eyes just about popped out of his head when he saw what Justin had painted. There on the wall of the treehouse was himself and Gus sitting at the little table Brian had purchased. They were playing a game of chess lost in concentration, but obviously loving the time they were spending together.

Brian felt tears well up as he hugged his partner. "That's so … wonderful," he gasped. "How do you do it?"

"I painted what I thought it would be like for you and Gus up here," Justin whispered against Brian's neck."

"It's … wonderful," Brian repeated. "You're wonderful."

Justin smiled radiantly and accepted Brian's praise that never came all that easily. "So where's your purchase?"

"John, haul it up," Brian called. "They have the most amazing things in that store."

Justin could not believe his eyes. Brian had bought a small fireplace for the treehouse.

"But how will it work up here?" Justin asked.

"It runs on gel, something alcohol based. It's totally environmentally friendly, and we don't have to vent it. The only byproduct is water."

"That's amazing, but is it safe to have up here if Gus is alone?"

"It holds a canister of the gel which we can remove if Gus is going to be by himself."

"Jesus, Brian, Gus will be able to move in here and never have to leave. All he needs is a computer and he won't even have to go to school."

All Brian did was grin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thursday evening and the treehouse gang, minus Justin, along with Claire stood looking up admiring Gus' treehouse. As Justin was putting the finishing touches on his mural then the protective varnish, John, Brian and Bobby were busy taking down the scaffolding. He alone was left up in the treehouse ready to come down the official way, by ladder or by slide.

"Hey Sunshine! You gonna stay up there all night?"

"Almost finished!"

"It's beautiful, Brian. Gus will be so surprised; he may never want to leave it."

"That's what Justin said. I hate to say this, Claire, but you're going to be stuck with me for a long time."

"I think I can handle that. What's taking him so long to come down?"

"Probably lubing up his ass for the slide down."

"Briiaaann!" All three exclaimed, not quite believing what came out of Brian's mouth.

"What?" Shaking their heads, Claire, John and Bobby again turned their attention to the treehouse.

"Okay, I'm finished. I'll be right down."

"Well, it's about time. I thought I was going to have to send up your dinner." They all watched Justin stand by the door and wave. He went back in and closed the door. Justin shut the windows just in case it rained but left them open a crack so that the paint odor would dissipate. Then they saw him come down the steps to the balcony level. They watched him look at the ladder and then the slide, he appeared to be debating. Claire, John and Bobby heard Brian mumble to himself, "Go for it, Sonny Boy," as he walked over to the base of the slide. Justin sat on the gleaming slide and slid down to the ground into Brian's arms.

Justin laughing, looking so much like a little boy, babbled with joy. "Brian, you have to try this. It's so amazing!"

"You're amazing little boy." Brian swung his big little boy around then they joined the rest of their family.

"Claire, John, Bobby, thank you so much. None of this could have been possible without you help, support and..." Brian, never able to express his true feelings, faltered.

"What Brian means is that without your love the treehouse would not exist. You've been wonderful to us." Brian could only nod in agreement.

"Justin, you and Brian are family. This was truly a labor of love. Now before this gets way too sappy and I need tissues, I suggest we go inside, have dinner and discuss the unveiling." With all her ducks in a row, Claire led the boys into the house and to the dinner table.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brian and Justin slept a little later the next morning. The work on the treehouse was finished, all tools and left over wood neatly stowed in the barn. They had survived their week of manual labor with their bodies and dignities intact. Neither of them sustained any physical harm and no further mention of frogs was made. All in all it was a great vacation. The lovers were ready to go back to Pittsburgh and prepare the family for the Treehouse Warming party. Around eleven Brian and Justin packed up the Cherokee, kissed everyone goodbye and went back home.

The following week was business as usual. Justin had gotten a resounding yes from Jennifer and Molly. They couldn't wait to meet John and Claire. Lindsay arranged for the time off from the gallery and promised to help Debbie and Emmett with cooking and baking. Everything would be ready for Saturday.

Friday rolled around and Brian had received a call from John letting him know they were on their way. They were going to meet Brian at Kinnetik.

Brian decided to enlist Emmett's help. Brian didn't trust Emmett to dress John but Emmett did have a flair with twinks. Brian gave Emmett the job of finding new outfits for Justin and Bobby. Emmett, nearly brought to tears by the trust Brian had in him, controlled himself when cut by a Kinney glare.

"Emmett, I'm warning you. Not one sequin, not one feather, nor any glitter. You have that straight?"

"Honey, there ain't nothin' straight about me. But if you insist. Don't blame me if your boys come back looking boring. Come on Brian, maybe something in lame."

"NO!" Emmett jumped as the four men shouted at him. "Alright, alright, I get the hint. Come along children. Let Auntie Em work the old magic. Bobby, we must find something that won't clash with that gorgeous hair of yours."

"Uh, Emmett."

"Yes, John."

"Keep your hands above the waist." Emmett tried to look insulted but failed. He ushered his charges out of Kinnetik.

"Well, little brother, where are we going and how much is this going to cost me?"

"I have a couple of shops in mind downtown and it's on me. That check I gave you to cover my half of the treehouse materials hasn't cleared, yet. This is my town; you're not allowed to spend a penny."

"What about Bobby's clothes?"

"Justin has my credit card and he knows how to use it. Don't sweat it, this is my treat."

Brian took John to one of his favorite men's stores. Immediately he and John were descended upon by a bevy of salesmen stumbling over each other to wait on Brian and his look-alike brother. Over the next hour the brothers were catered to. They left with killer outfits for the evening. Next on the list was Brian's favorite hair stylist, manicurist and pedicurist. John was never so pampered in his whole life.

Sitting with his feet in a pool of bubbling, warm, scented water, John looked over at Brian who was equally seated. A luscious dark haired beauty was giving Brian's feet a massage while another pretty boy was tending to John's.

"Brian, do you do this often?" John questioned.

"About once a month. Why?"

"And Justin doesn't mind the, uh, attention you're receiving?"

"Justin knows exactly what goes on in here." John thought it wise not to pursue the cryptic answer. After a couple hours of pampering, Brian and John were trimmed, shaved, and well manicured.

"So, where to now?"

"The diner. That was Justin on the phone. They're done with their shopping and very hungry."

"Why am I not surprised? Your boy can eat."

"Yes, he can."

"Will I like what Bobby will be wearing?"

"Let's put it this way. If you don't there will be one dead Auntie Em." Having no doubts about Brian's wrath, John followed Brian to his car.

At the diner, their reception was no less spectacular. The brothers joined their lovers and Emmett by the door. They bid Emmett a 'ta ta' and entered the diner. The usual dinner crowd was in.

"I guess we have to wait." John said noting that there were no empty booths.

"No, we won't," Justin responded. Sure enough, a group of men vacated a booth for Brian, et al.

Brian nodded his appreciation while John and Bobby looked stunned.

"Another gift?" John queried Justin who just shrugged.

Debbie was in rare form, greeting her boys with hugs and pinches to various cheeks. Kiki was there, with her runny mascara drooling over John. Debbie knew that they were going to Babylon and put in their orders without asking. "You'll eat all of it!" Debbie stated as she stared specifically at Brian. All four men answered with a, "Yes, Debbie."

Dinner was surprisingly edible and Justin was very appreciative. Halfway through dinner Bobby began to fidget. He was starting to get annoyed by all the attention John was garnering. Sitting opposite Brian in the aisle seat was earning John and Brian subtle caresses from anyone passing by. Brian barely acknowledged them, Justin ignored them, John was baffled by them and Bobby was downright angry. No words of comfort from John seemed to sink through the mop of red hair. Liberty Diner was about to experience another full fledged drama princess moment.

Justin, remembering his manners, put down his fork, swallowed and wiped his mouth before speaking. "Bobby, just remember who he sleeps with every night."

Brian bussed Justin's temple as John gave Bobby a kiss on the cheek. All was right in the world again. Their meal continued without further drama. They returned to the loft after dinner.

Having several hours before Babylon, the former treehouse gang decided to relax before their night out on the town. Brian immediately dumped his briefcase on his desk and went to the bedroom to change out of his suit. John and Bobby who were going to spend the night were discovering just how comfortable the futon cushions were and Justin went to boot up the computer. As it was his habit, the loft door was slightly ajar.

Brian descended the steps in his usual garb of soft faded jeans, top button undone, black wifebeater and bare feet. He was quite oblivious to the ogles of admiration he got from Bobby and from John. Brian passed by his desk, gave Justin a kiss then went to the fridge for water. After passing out bottles of water to the loft occupants Brian lounged in his chaise. Done catching up on his email, Justin joined Brian. The brothers quietly and reverently cuddled with their partners.

Their solitude was then disturbed by the usual traffic that seemed to plague the loft and Brian on a regular basis. First it was Mikey. Thinking nothing of barging in, Mikey slid the heavy door open pushing Hunter inside.

"Brian! Would you mind telling Hunter that you are NOT going to fuck him in the treehouse? He seems to be under the impression that the treehouse is going to be your fuck nest."

"Well, hi Mikey, I'm fine, how are you? And how is the littlest former hustler tonight? You're looking remarkably clean, Hunter."

"Brian, stop sucking on Justin's neck and tell Hunter you are not going to fuck him!"

"Hunter, I am not going to fuck you. Happy now, Mikey?"

"Very. See you guys at Babylon." Mikey and Hunter left the building.

Next to show up was Lindsay. She at least knocked before entering.

"Brian, can I store some of the pies here? I've run out of room at my place."

"Sure, Linds. Anything you want."

"Thanks. I'll meet you at Debbie's in the morning." Lindsay lined up her pies and cakes on the counter, walked over to the chaise gave both Brian and Justin a kiss, waved a hello and goodbye to John and Bobby , then left.

"Brian?"

"Hmm?"

"Is this normal?"

"Is what normal?"

"All these people coming in and out?"

"Just another day at the Kinney loft."

"Ah." The brothers went back to kissing their twinks.

Next on the hit parade was Emmett and Ted.

"See, I told you they weren't naked, Teddy."

"One has hopes, Em."

"What can I do for you two?"

"Oh nothing really. Just wanted to drop by and see if you all liked the outfits I picked out for the boys."

"I just wanted to see if you all were having an orgy."

"Sorry, Theodore, you just missed the orgy and you'll have to wait for Babylon to see how we look."

"Damn! Tootles, y'all." Temmett exited the loft.

Cynthia showed up with some last minute contracts for Brian to approve and sign, then she left with little ado.

"Bri?"

"Yes, Sunshine."

"When are we going?"

"About ten."

"Ten?"

"I know, I would've liked to make the grand entrance at eleven but we have to wake up early tomorrow. It's going to be a busy day and I need my beauty sleep."

"Okay."

John and Bobby silently took in what had just transpired.

Around nine, Brian gently pushed Justin off the chaise and stated, "Well, boys, time to get ready." With that Brian sauntered into the bedroom, stripping off his clothes. They heard the shower start and Brian's voice. "Hey, Sunshine, you gonna help me in the shower?"

"Coming!" the three all sing-songed.

"Not without me you don't," as Justin went in to join Brian.

When Justin's giggles were transformed into moans, John and Bobby realized what kind of help Justin was rendering. Gratefully the shower drowned out the other noises.

That left John and Bobby snuggling on the cushions. Bobby was lying on top of John nibbling his ear. Too engrossed in what they were doing, they didn't hear the door slide open again.

"Brian! How could you?!" John and Bobby jumped up when they heard the scolding from the pretty petite blond scowling at them.

"Oh dear, you're not Brian. You must be his brother. I'm Jennifer Taylor, Justin's mom." Jennifer blushed but extended her hand.

John smiled, "It's quite alright, I'm getting used to it." Shaking her hand, "I'm John and this is my partner Bobby."

"Nice to finally meet you both. Justin has told me all about his Sunshine file and what he discovered. I can't wait to meet your mother." Clad in a towel, Justin sprinted into the living room.

"Hi, Mom." He said with a kiss to Jennifer's cheek.

"Hi, Sweetheart. I was in the neighborhood showing a property and thought I'd drop by. I didn't interrupt anything did I?"

"No, just getting ready for Babylon."

"Okay, well you all have a good time and I'll see you at Deb's in the morning."

"Okay." Just then Brian, naked as the day he was born, stood at the steps and greeted Jennifer.

"See you in the morning, Jenn."

"Night Brian, have fun at Babylon."

"We will." Brian turned and went into the bedroom.

"Goodnight." John, Bobby and Justin said their good nights to Jennifer as she shut the door. Justin felt four eyes bore into his head.

Bobby had the balls to ask the obvious. "Justin, just how often does your mother see Brian naked?"

Turning to go up the steps, Justin answered, "Not too often." Then he disappeared into the bedroom leaving two very stunned men behind him.

While Brian primped, John and Bobby showered then got dressed. Even with a half an hour disadvantage, John and Bobby were dressed and ready before Brian.

Brian had chosen a deep green almost black pair of slacks for John and a deep hunter green sleeveless silk shirt. The green set off John's hazel eyes. John, with years of hard work under his belt looked well muscled and trim. Bobby was dressed in dark navy jeans and a cream sleeveless cotton sweater that blended with his creamy skin. He looked sweet enough to eat.

Brian came down the steps, his hair with that just fucked look that he'd perfected over the years. Black lambskin pants that hugged every curve and accentuated his obvious endowments and a black tight tank. After a week of hearty country cooking and hard physical work, Brian's already taut muscles looked more defined and definitely healthy. Justin, loving the contrast between his light and Brian's dark, wore beige cargos and a golden yellow belly shirt. Still officially a twink, he was able to pull off the look without fear of embarrassment. With his golden blond hair, he lived up to his name.

The four paired off and checked each other out. John and Brian had to admit that Auntie Em would live to see another day.

Even though it was relatively early for Babylon, there was a good size crowd dancing to the thumping beat. Brian led the way and stopped on the catwalk to survey his kingdom. This was his world and all of Babylon knew it. Justin, a step behind, gave Brian his moment then sidled up beside him. Brian put his protective arm around Justin's shoulder, a clear warning to all. They led his brother and Bobby to their spot at the bar. Ted, Emmett, Michael and Ben were there to meet and greet. Hugs and kisses abounded and drinks were ordered. Justin was bouncing, ready to dance. Emmett his ever ready dance partner looked to Brian for permission. With a nod from Brian, they were off to start off the night.

And what a night it was. The friends and family all danced with each other and had a great time. At the right moment Justin led Brian to the dance floor. The crowd parted for their kings to watch their show; Brian and Justin did not disappoint. As in the Honey Bear, Brian and Justin began their sensual dance heating up the temperature around them to a fevered pitch. Many left the dance floor to dowse the fever in the back room. When the next song started, Brian and Justin were joined by John and Bobby. The crowd cheered as the gorgeous brothers led their equally beautiful partners around the floor. Every once in a while John and Brian would switch places then switch again. The announcer couldn't help but comment.

"Take a good look, boys! There's two of them, more than enough to go around."

Around one, the gang agreed it was time to go. They would meet at Debbie's at ten. An audible groan was heard throughout Babylon as the brothers sauntered out of the club with their lovers.

Chapter 6

At ten the next morning everyone assembled at Debbie's. Carl had decided to come so he would drive himself, Deb, Michael, Hunter and Ben. They had loaded the trunk of the car with sleeping bags and coolers of food. Bikes for Michael and his little family were strapped on the back so they could explore some of the back roads near the farm.

Brian looked at the bikes and felt a throb in his shoulder. He was glad he had decided to forego the bike ride when Michael had suggested it to him. The infamous Liberty Ride had effectively taken away his desire to sit on a bike for a long, long time.

John and Bobby were going to drive Jennifer and Molly. They could all get to know each other on the trip. Brian and Justin would take Gus and Lindsay with them. Ted and Emmett rode together keeping the backseat open to bring back Jennifer and Molly on the return trip.

With all the logistics taken care of and the trunks loaded with goodies and sleeping bags and changes of clothing, they set out on their adventure.

A couple of hours later they approached the farm. Gus was bouncing in his seat. He had loved the farm the first time he had been there, and his daddy had told him that there was a big surprise in store for him when they got there. He could hardly wait.

"We're almost there," Justin said to the little boy. He could see the driveway up ahead. John's Navigator had already turned in. "Are you ready?"

"Yes," Gus said suddenly serious. He seemed to be holding his breath.

"Breathe, sweetie," Lindsay told him touching his leg.

Gus smiled over at her, but his eyes were very big and he looked almost terrified. Brian was watching in the rearview mirror.

"It's going to be fun, Gus," Brian said in his most reassuring voice. "You'll like it."

"Daddy," Gus said with a frown. "Is it the treehouse?"

"We're almost there," Brian grinned into the mirror. "You'll see in a minute."

They turned into the driveway and pulled up next to John's Navigator. Lindsay unbuckled Gus and helped him out of his seat. As soon as his feet hit the ground, he ran towards the tree. Suddenly he stopped and turned around. Brian who was close behind him saw the tears in his eyes.

"Gus, what's wrong?"

"Is the tree dead?" Gus gulped.

"Dead?" What are you talking about?" Brian looked up at the tree for the first time. His attention had been riveted on Gus before. He smiled and then frowned. "No Gus, the tree isn't dead. It looks like Uncle John covered up the surprise so that when we take down that tarp you will be able to see the whole thing at once."

"Now!" Gus stated emphatically.

"Can you wait a few more minutes?" Brian asked.

"No! I'm going to explode, daddy!"

Brian chuckled. He seemed to be raising a budding drama queen. "Everybody else will be here in a few minutes. Can you wait that long?" Gus shook his head and Brian was sure tears were close. He went over to Gus and picked him up. "Let's take a peek, and then maybe you can wait for the rest. Is that a deal?"

Gus nodded. "Peek, now," he said. Brian carried him over to the tree and raised the tarp enough for Gus to see the slide. Gus' smile was brilliant. "A slide," he whispered in awe. Slides were just about his most favorite thing in the whole wide world.

"There's Debbie and Carl coming up the driveway," Brian said pointing to the car that had just pulled in. "It won't be long now."

Gus leaned against Brian putting his arms around his father's neck. "Hurry," he ordered.

They had to wait a little while for Ted and Emmett to arrive. Brian called for Beau who was able to distract Gus from the unveiling of the treehouse for a few minutes. Claire and Jennifer met for the first time. They immediately liked each other and struck up a conversation. There were lots of hugs and kisses as everybody got reacquainted. Carl admired the farmhouse and the surrounding land. He had visited his grandparents' farm often as a small child. . Finally Temmett arrived uttering their apologies for holding things up. They had had to make a few potty stops along the way.

Quickly everyone assembled under the big tree. John took Gus' hand and led him over to the side of the tarp. He cleared his throat as he handed Gus a rope to hold onto.

"I am so pleased that Brian's family, and by association, my new family are all here today for the unveiling of Gus' treehouse. We spent an interesting week working on this project. I learned a lot about my little brother." He paused and smiled at Brian.

"Not all of it good, I bet," Debbie chuckled.

"I like every part of what I learned about Brian. He is an incredibly complex, but very interesting man. He's taught me a lot."

Brian smiled over at his brother sticking his tongue in his cheek. "Back at ya', big bro'. Thanks to John's fine tutelage I'm applying for my carpentry papers next week."

"Brian," Justin said with a giggle as he swatted his partner on the arm.

Everybody laughed.

"What?" Brian asked. "I'm serious."

John cleared his throat again bringing everybody's attention back to him and a very impatient Gus. "We have an eager little boy here who wants to see what his daddy and his uncle and their partners were able to make for him. So without further ado, give that rope a big tug, Gus."

Gus yanked for all he was worth. At first the tarp seemed to be stuck, but John took hold and helped Gus give it a big pull. The tarp gently fluttered away from the treehouse and floated to the ground as all assembled gasped and oohed and aahed.

"Brilliant!" Emmett said slapping Brian on the shoulder.

"It's fucking amazing, kiddo!" Debbie said kissing Brian on the cheek.

"Those tools you borrowed went to a fine purpose," Carl said shaking Brian's hand.

Brian smirked, but then realized that he needed to say something. "Thanks for all the compliments, but this was truly a team effort. And I had the best team imaginable. John was the guiding genius, but Justin and Bobby both added their ideas and hours of hard work. We couldn't have done this without each other."

"Hear, hear!" people replied.

Brian felt a tug on his jeans. He looked down. Gus' eyes that matched his own looked up at him. "Please, daddy, can I go up?"

"Yes you can. You've been so patient."

Gus smiled. "Come with me?" he asked taking Brian's hand.

Brian went over to the ladder and set Gus part way up. The little boy scampered quickly up to the balcony level with Brian following close behind. On the balcony he looked over and waved at his mother and the others. They all waved back. Gus looked like he was ready to take the slide down, but Brian caught him first.

"Come see the rest, Sonny boy," he said, "and then you can slide all you want." He took Gus' hand and led him to the next ladder. They climbed up quickly.

Everybody waited for Gus' reaction. Almost immediately they heard a squeal of delight, followed by giggles and laughs. One of the windows opened and Gus stuck his head out held up by his father.

"Mommy, I'm on the wall. Justin painted me and daddy on the wall! Come see!"

"Everybody has to come and see," Brian said.

"Oh, oh, oh!" Gus yelled. "There's a fireplace."

"A fireplace?" everybody gasped.

"This I have to see," Emmett said heading for the tree.

One by one they all climbed the tree and surveyed the masterpiece that was Gus' treehouse. They loved Justin's mural and the table with the chess set all set up ready to play. They couldn't get over the installation of the fireplace. Everybody took the slide coming down including Debbie and Jennifer. Claire saw the inside of the treehouse for the first time and loved it. She complimented Justin on his mural as he caught her at the bottom of the slide. Even Carl took the slide on his return trip.

It was unanimous. The treehouse was a resounding success. And Gus loved it too.

Ted wanted to know if he could move in. The rent might be cheaper than paying for his condo.

"But the commute will kill ya'," Emmett told him.

"That is the most fucking amazing treehouse I have ever seen," Michael said leaning in to give Brian a kiss.

"I though it turned out well," Brian replied with his tongue in his cheek.

"Are you sure you won't fuck me up there?" Hunter asked. "It would be hot."

"Fucking me is always hot," Brian replied with a smirk, "and no, I won't be fucking anyone except Justin."

Justin beamed over at him as he caught Gus at the bottom of the slide.

"I think it's time for some iced tea followed closely by lunch," Claire announced as they all started to follow her to the house.

Brian and John stood under the tree staring up at Gus who had just climbed up so he could take another trip down the slide.

"We done good!" John said with a big smile.

"That we did," Brian agreed as he gave his big brother a big hug.

While children young and old were playing in the treehouse, the ladies, including Emmett, began to prepare for the party. Hunter took a break from his fantasy of fucking Brian and helped to set up some music, nothing too loud but jumping. Brian and Justin hoisted up the sleeping bags and made plans for the 'men' to spend the night in the treehouse. By two o'clock everyone was hungry and ready to dig in. There were cold cuts of every sort, barbecued chicken, ribs, burgers, hot dogs and thick soft rolls. There were enough vegetables to keep Ben happy for weeks and enough different desserts to send the whole lot of them into diabetic comas. It was a feast to behold.

John and Carl set out the long tables and folding chairs John had rented for this occasion, placing them in a big square so that everyone could be seen and join in conversation. Michael and Ben draped disposable table cloths on the tables and began to set out the plates and utensils. The whole family pitched in to give Claire a hand. Within the hour, the tables were set and all were seated. Just before they started to eat Debbie thought a few words should be spoken. Brian and John had already said their peace so this time Justin stood up to speak.

"I didn't realize that when I found that book on Brian's shelf that this would be the result. Brian, I am so glad you let me explore the mystery into your family's past. I hope that this new family of ours somehow makes up for the one you never really had. Thank you, Claire and John, for letting us ALL into your lives. Let's eat, I'm starving!"

Everyone laughed and passed around the box of tissues that thankfully made its way to the table. The Treehouse Warming party officially commenced. With food and drink flowing like a waterfall the party was a success.

Later on the large family broke up into smaller groups. The Bruckner-Novotny clan took out their bikes to go exploring. The mothers all huddled on the screened in porch with their coffees and tea and chatted about children and other 'girly' matters. Emmett and Ted commandeered Bobby again to explore the stream. Molly and Gus spent time in the treehouse coloring pictures that Gus wanted to decorate the other blank walls. John and Carl remained at the table to discuss politics. Brian and Justin took their little party to the barn to disrupt poor Beau's peaceful nap.

Before it got too dark, Claire announced the sleeping arrangements.

Carl and Debbie would take John and Bobby's room. Jennifer, Molly and Lindsay the guest room. Ted and Emmett claimed Claire's long thick sofas in the living room. Michael, Ben and Hunter came prepared with their own sleeping bags to use in the screened porch. John and Bobby would make good use of the loft storage area in the barn. Everyone knew where Brian, Justin and Gus would bed down for the night. With flashlights and lanterns in hand, the family scurried off to prepare their respective sleeping quarters.

By the time it was fully dark all the sleeping accommodations had been taken care of. Sleeping bags were rolled out and linen and pillows provided. Everyone met back in the screen porch except for Gus who had crawled into his sleeping bag in the treehouse. Brian and Justin had stayed with him until he fell asleep exhausted from all the excitement of his treehouse and slide, and from chasing Beau all over the place all afternoon. Once the little boy was asleep Brian and Justin took the slide down and met the other adults in the screen porch.

It was a beautiful, clear night with myriads of stars visible. Claire and Debbie had set out rolls and cold cuts so that people could have a snack. They had forgone dinner having pigged out at lunch and eaten way on into the afternoon. There were cold beers and bottles of wine and a pitcher of iced tea. Desserts were everywhere. Everybody helped themselves and then found a seat on a chair, or the swing, or on a cushion on the floor.

"That was one fan-fucking-tastic day," Debbie said giving Carl a kiss as she cuddled next to him on the wicker sofa.

"I can't believe you guys built that treehouse," Ben said. "It's … palatial."

Brian chuckled. "Nothing but the best for us Kinney men," he said giving Justin a peck on the cheek and a gentle squeeze. He smiled over at John and Bobby who were sitting on the floor across from them.

"I wish you had taken movies of the construction. I would love to see Brian Kinney working up a sweat," Ted joked.

"In your dreams, Theodore. I don't sweat, except at one activity." Brian stuck his tongue in his cheek.

"And we all know what that is," several voices chorused.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Claire said, "we still have youngsters present." She tilted her head in the direction of Hunter and Molly who were sitting together in a corner.

"Don't worry about me," Hunter said. "I could tell you some stories that would make your hair curl." Ben cleared his throat and glared at Hunter. "Maybe another time," Hunter corrected himself.

"How did you decide to paint that mural of Gus and Brian?" Lindsay asked.

Justin smiled. "I could see my boys vying for the championship and I wanted an activity that they could do at the little table. I wanted it to mirror real life."

"Gus is really picking up on the chess," Brian said. "Won't be too long until he beats the pants off me."

"Another reason for you to take your pants off, Mr. Kinney?" Emmett smirked.

Brian stuck out his tongue at Emmett.

"Like he's ever needed a reason," Ted said with a chuckle.

"I always have the best reason for taking off my pants, and he's sitting right here."

Everyone laughed, but they had to admit that it was a new and improved Brian Kinney who could say something like that in mixed company.

"Do your friends always enjoy roasting you, Brian?" Claire asked with a smile.

"Their lives are so pathetic they have to live vicariously through me." Several cushions came flying across the room before Brian could get his tongue in his cheek.

"Hey!" Justin called. "I'm here too." He started to dig himself out from the pile of cushions. He and Brian good naturedly tossed them back.

"You certainly have surrounded yourself with an interesting group of people," Claire observed with a laugh.

"If they don't kill ya', they make you stronger," Brian said, "or just plain crazy."

"You know we should have taken everybody to the Honey Bear," Justin said. "It would have been so cool to have our own group."

"We still could do that. It's not that late," John said.

"Who wants to go?" Bobby asked.

Ted and Emmett were up for it immediately. Ben and Michael said they would like to go. Hunter wanted a dance with Brian if he went. Brian just shook his head.

"Ladies?" Brian asked.

"I think I'll stay here with Molly and Claire," Jennifer said.

"Me too," Lindsay said. "I don't want to leave Gus all alone in the treehouse in case he wakes up and doesn't know where he is."

"That's true," Brian said. "Do you mind staying with him till we get back?"

"I'd like to see how they do things at the Honey Bear," Debbie remarked. "But I think Carl and I will call it an early evening."

"Maw," Michael whined.

"What?" Debbie asked. "We're just going to sleep."

"Sure you are," several people laughed. Debbie blushed and so did Carl although it was hard to see in the dim light.

"So, Emmett and Theodore, you can right with Justin and me," Brian said. "I think the Novotny-Bruckner clan can squeeze in the back of the Navigator with John and Bobby. Unless you'd prefer to ride your bikes," Brian smirked.

"Briiaan," Michael whined.

They all made their way to the vehicles looking forward to an evening of dancing and fun.

As the cars pulled away, Claire looked over at the adults. "Peace and quiet," she sighed. "Those youngsters have a lot of energy."

"True," Jennifer agreed. "But it's fun being around them."

"Anybody up for charades?" Debbie asked. "We can make our own fun."

"Sounds good to me," Carl said. Even Molly liked the sound of that.

Saturday night at the Honey Bear and the joint was jumping. There were no empty tables to be had and the bar was three deep. Bobby herded the gang over to the large fireplace and the futon cushions that were in front. Too warm for a fire, the logs and andirons were replaced by a beautiful arched candle holder that had rainbow colored glass cups each holding a tea candle. It radiated a soft warm glow. Since the Honey Bear was down one very popular red-headed waiter that night, Bobby offered to get everyone's drink. Justin, no stranger to waiting tables, helped.

Lounging on the cushions and sipping their drinks, the happy family relaxed.

Michael and Ben were the first to get up to dance. Bobby was busy introducing John to his regulars. John mused about how many of his neighbors and people he went to school with were here. Before opening the door to his own closet, John was never aware of the friends he could have had. He was surprised to see some of his former 'dates' here; they too had made life altering decisions.

Ted excused himself to use the men's room as Hunter convinced Brian to give him one dance. Bobby, John, Justin and Emmett cracked up as Hunter tried some of the moves he saw Justin use. Brian pushed the teen back to a respectable distance then popped Hunter one to the back of his head. Crushed, Hunter finished the dance. The music changed and Justin came out to take Hunter's place and to show Hunter how it was done.

With Emmett's usual dance partner otherwise engaged in seducing his man and every other man in the club, he looked to John and asked if it was okay to dance with Bobby. John held up his hands indicating that it was Bobby's choice. Bobby nodded a yes, but had reservations about dancing with his newly acquired Auntie Em. John kept an eye on them both but knew that there was more to Bobby than what met the eye. Bobby wasn't a twink nor was he as young as he looked. Bobby worked his good looks to get good tips but you don't win a scholarship to law school on good looks alone. Emmett would be in store for a big surprise if he thought Bobby had fluff for a brain.

Brian and Justin returned from their dance and plopped down on the cushions. Finally returning from the men's room and with a very perplexed look on his face was Teddy. He sat down across from Brian and watched with fascination as Justin tried to consume Brian bit by bit. Breaking apart to catch their breath and observing the look on Ted's face, Brian cocked his head.

"What is it, Theodore? You've seen Justin make a meal out of me before."

"Hmm? That's not it?"

"Teddy, did something happen in the men's room?" Justin questioned with concern for the accountant.

"Let me ask you a ridiculous question. What does getting hit on feel like?"

"That is a very ridiculous question, Theodore."

"Ted, did someone make a pass at you?"

"I believe so."

"Tell us."

"I was in the men's room standing at the urinal, doing what was expected. I heard someone come out of a stall. I never look, 'cause well, someone like me, should not look." Brian nodded. "I zipped up and washed my hands."

"Well thank the gods for small mercies. It's good to know you practice good hygienic habits. I have to touch all those papers you throw at me." Justin backhanded Brian in the stomach and urged Ted to continue.

"Anyway, I was heading out the door when this guy said he hoped to see me on the dance floor. Was that a pass?"

"Why Theodore, I never knew you had it in you. I'm proud of you."

"Do you see him?"

"Yes I do. He's the blond haired guy over there and, oh my god, he's walking over here! What do I do? It's been so long, I'm not prepared." Poor Ted started to tremble in anticipation and fear.

Brian put his arm around Ted's shoulder and whispered in his ear. Brian's warm breathy voice reassured Ted and brought ideas to Ted's dick. "Remember how you felt when you borrowed my bracelet; now what would the master do in this situation?"

"You think I can pull it off? You think I can be you?"

"No one can be me; have confidence in yourself Ted. He already finds you interesting; go for it." Ted scrambled off the cushion to greet the interested party.

"Somebody pinch me so I know I'm not dreaming." Brian and John stretched out their long arms and each pinched an ass cheek. Ted never felt it as he was whisked away to the dance floor by a good looking tall blond.

"Who'd a thunk it?" Brian shrugged.

"It must be this place," said John. "It seems to bring people together." Brian nodded in agreement.

"It certainly brought you and Bobby together." John smiled; that was certainly true. John, seeing how bored and miserable Hunter was looking, grabbed the teen's hand and led him to the floor. John wasn't Brian but he was a very handsome substitute. Hunter and John danced over to Michael and Ben.

Bobby was still dancing with Emmett and getting a little annoyed at Emmett's roving hands. He was about to make a point of telling him when John tapped Emmett on the shoulder to cut in. A grateful Bobby showed his gratitude all over John's face and neck.

"Now I know why Dorothy ran away," Bobby murmured into John's ear. With Emmett forgotten, the lovers danced.

Both sans partner, Emmett and Hunter danced together. Hunter was okay with dancing with the flaming Emmett until Emmett started with his praise Jesus moves. Hunter quickly left the dance floor leaving poor Emmett to practice his moves by himself.

About 12:30 they all decided to go back to the farm. It had been a very full and exciting day.

The Navigator and Cherokee pulled into the drive and everyone got out to say their goodnights. Pulling Lindsay aside Brian spoke quietly to her. Justin saw Lindsay sigh then nod. Then Brian pulled his boy back into the Cherokee and they climbed into the back.

"We never did christen your car properly."

"Oh, OH! Okay!"

The moon was hidden behind the treehouse and the dark tinted windows that were quickly fogging up hid the lovers from view. Only the rocking of the truck gave away its occupants' activities.

After a while, the well fucked Brian and Justin got out of the Cherokee. They ran into the house to change their clothes and with flashlights in hand they climbed up into the treehouse to join the sleeping Gus. A small lantern was glowing on the table to keep the wilderness from frightening the little boy. Quietly they crept into their joined sleeping bags, spooned together and soon they too were asleep.

An hour or two later, Brian awoke to a sleepy, squeaky voice.

"Daddy?"

"What is it Gus?"

"I have to pee."

"Can you hold it till we get inside the house?"

"Don't think so."

Faced with this new dilemma, Brian got up and carried Gus to the balcony level. Brian knelt beside his son then freed their penises from the confines of their pajama pants.

Pointing Gus between the spindles of the railing and positioning himself in the same direction, Brian whispered loudly, "Look out below!"

Gus and Brian giggled as they peed together, sharing a father and son moment and raining urine onto the grass below. Helping the boy to shake it off, Brian readjusted their pajamas and carried Gus up to the enclosure.

"Can I sleep with you and Justin?"

"Sure." Father and son joined Justin in the soft warm sleeping bag. Gus snuggled between his two dads and fell back to sleep.

"Where'd ya go?" Justin asked with a sleep raspy voice.

"We had to pee."

"Oh."

"Remind me to hose down the grass at the back of the tree in the morning."

"Okay." Justin rolled over and he too fell back to sleep.

With the two most important people in his life snuggled closely next him, Brian slept like an angel.

Chapter 7

Brian awoke to the feel of kisses on his nose. His eyes fluttered open as Gus giggled and kissed his nose again.

"Hey, Sonny Boy," Brian said. "What's up?"

"I need to pee," Gus said.

"Okay, let's go to the house."

"Over the balcony."

Brian groaned. He had known at the time that he would pay for showing Gus how to do that. "There's a bathroom in the house."

"No," said Gus.

"Why don't we all pee over the balcony?" Justin asked as he rubbed his eyes.

"Morning, my other Sonny Boy," Brian whispered leaning over to kiss his sleepy partner.

"Yeah!" Gus said getting up and pulling his father's hand.

"Family urination," Brian said. "The family that sleeps together pees together."

Justin chuckled and helped Gus haul his father to his feet. "Up, old man!" Justin ordered.

"Christ," Brian said rubbing his back. "Sleeping on the fucking floor isn't all it's cracked up to be." Brian's back gave a resounding crack of its own at that moment.

Justin frowned at Brian and shook his head indicating Brian better watch his language around Gus. Brian smiled contritely.

They made their way down to the balcony level. Brian tried to help Gus get his penis out and the little boy told him no. He could do it by himself. All three lined up and peed through the spindles of the railing. Gus giggled as he tried to imitate everything the two adults did. He shook off his penis and tucked it back in his pajamas.

"Ready to see what's cooking on this fine day?" Brian asked.

"Hungry," said Gus.

"Hungry," said Justin.

They quickly made their way over to the house where Lindsay took Gus to get some clothes. Brian and Justin used the bathroom to change into their clothes and wash their hands. A shower would wait till later. Brian went out to hose down the grass by the tree while Justin started helping Claire arrange the things for breakfast.

When Brian returned, Claire was whipping up a big bowl of what looked like pancake batter. "How are you at flipping flapjacks?" Claire asked him.

"Um…"

"Not so good?"

"Not really."

"There's two dozen oranges over there that you could squeeze," she said.

"Two dozen?" Brian asked raising an eyebrow. I guess I could do that. Where's the juicer?" Claire handed him an old fashioned glass lemon squeezer. He looked at it skeptically.

"He's used to a Philippe Starke top of the line automatic juicer," Lindsay said with a chuckle as she brought a fully dressed Gus into the kitchen. Brian stuck his tongue out at her.

"Lindsay, if you would start frying up that bacon, I'll show Brian how to use this. Gus, Beau's outside; he just had his breakfast if you want to go play with him."

Gus ran to the door. "Stay around the house," Lindsay called as the screen door slammed behind the little boy. "He loves that dog. We may have to take Beau home with us."

"Better yet, bring Gus more often for visits, and they'll both be happy," Claire said as she hacked an orange in half and twisted it on the lemon squeezer. She handed the other half of the orange to Brian saying, "Get to work, and make sure you get all the seeds out."

"Yes, ma'am. Absolutely, ma'am. No problem, ma'am." Brian smiled and kissed her cheek. She blushed as she showed Justin where a couple dozen eggs needed to be cracked into a bowl to make scrambled eggs.

Emmett arrived and began to help Justin. He chatted away happily about the Honey Bear and Ted's new beau. Jennifer, Ted and Molly came into the kitchen.

"Molly, Gus is outside playing with Beau. Would you keep an eye on him?" Molly nodded and went outside. "Jennifer and Ted, maybe you could start on the toast." They immediately got to work. Quiet chatter filled the kitchen.

"Where's Mikey and Deb?" Justin asked.

"Michael and his family went for a walk a little while ago. I hope they didn't get lost," Claire explained.

"Michael would get lost but not Ben and Hunter. That son of mine has no sense of direction. But I'm sure they'll be fine," Debbie said as she and Carl came into the kitchen.

"Ah, would you two man the barbecue?" Claire asked. "It's all heated up and the tray is in it to make pancakes on. Keep them warm on the top rack," Claire said as she handed them everything they needed to cook the flapjacks.

Brian watched all the goings-on. He marveled at how Claire had so easily assigned jobs to everyone and nobody griped. They just did what she asked because she knew what she was doing and everybody wanted to please her. Brian thought about the fights with his own parents over chores and clean-up. He never wanted to do anything for them, and yet here he was squeezing two dozen oranges for Claire. Maybe it was because he had no doubt that she would do anything for him in return.

"Where are Bobby and John?" Emmett asked.

"Still fucking in the barn, if they know what's good for them," Brian stated.

"We're finished for now," John said with a well satisfied smirk as he came through the kitchen door with Bobby.

"Go get cleaned up," Claire ordered. "Breakfast is almost ready."

A short time later they all sat around the screen porch munching happily on the delicious breakfast that everyone had helped to prepare. The wanderers had returned. The fresh country air had given them all a good appetite.

"So what's on the agenda for this afternoon?" Claire asked.

"I thought I'd see if Gus wanted to go over to Steve's," John said. "He farms a hundred acres for me. His place is across the stream and through the woodlot. He has cows and a few sheep and a donkey. Would you like that Gus?"

"Yes, Uncle John," Gus said nodding his head as he chewed on a strip of bacon having finished two pancakes already.

"I'd like to see the animals too," Justin said.

"I'll take whoever wants to go. Steve won't mind. He's quite the character."

"We might go for another bike ride," Ben said. "Head the opposite direction."

"Suit yourself," John replied. "Whoever wants to come will be welcome. Or you can just sit in the shade and doze, or go for a swim in the stream, or do absolutely nothing."

"Aah, the country life!" Brian smirked as everyone gave him a raspberry.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

John's tour to Steve's farm included Brian, Justin, Gus, of course, Molly and surprisingly, Ted. Emmett decided that he wanted no part of any animal of the four legged variety. Bobby, who needed to go back to work at the Honey Bear for the dinner crowd, stayed back to rest. Carl and Debbie decided to check out the stream. Michael and clan went off on their bikes. Claire, Jennifer and Lindsay after cleaning the kitchen, enjoyed the quiet of the porch.

"Wow, I never knew all this land was back here. And this guy Steve runs all this by himself for your Mom? No wonder you got pissed when you thought I wouldn't sign the deed."

"I'm sorry about that. Now that I know you better, I know you would have never reneged on your promise. You may be many things, little bro, but you keep your promises."

"One of my few failings. So tell me about this guy; he works for you?"

"Yeah, been here for as long as I've been around. He may look old and worn but he's as healthy as a horse and strong. He's about Mother's age."

"Oh?"

"Don't get any ideas, although I would to be proud to have him as a father. He certainly would have been a good one. He's a widower; his wife died a long time ago and he never re-married."

"Any kids?"

"One, a son, but he was killed several years ago. Ran with the wrong crowd. Got caught robbing a convenience store and was killed."

"Fuck!"

"So now he's thrown himself into the farm and something more."

"Okay, I'll bite."

"Wait, you'll see."

As John's group approached the bunkhouse, a large bear of a man came out to greet them holding a lead attached to a small donkey.

"Good morning, Steve."

"Good morning, John. And who do we have here?" Steve said noting Gus and Molly.

"Steve, I'd like to introduce Master Gus Peterson and Miss Molly Taylor. They're visiting along with their families." Gus beamed at the use of his formal name and shook hands with the big man. John continued with all the introductions and brief explanations of who was who.

"Gus, if it's okay with your dad here, would you like a ride on Daisy. She's real gentle.

One of my boys will lead you two around the farm." Gus' smile got brighter and he nodded his head but looked to Brian for consent.

"Go ahead, Gus. Just do what Steve tells you to do."

"Okay Daddy."

One of Steve's 'boys' came up. A young man, who looked to be about 16, took the lead as Brian set the boy on top of Daisy and Steve gave him instructions.

"Now hold on to her mane tight; you won't hurt her, and do what Chris tells you. We'll be here in sight so you can see your Dad." Gus nodded and then they were off to the races, a very slow race, the donkey's hooves clopping on the hard ground.

"How many 'boys' do you have here this time, Steve?" John queried.

"Twenty, a couple of real humdingers but we'll straighten them out. Now you'll have to excuse me. Got some cows that need milking and some boys to do the milking." Steve turned to head to the barn to get back to the cows and the boys.

"Boys?" Justin asked as his eyebrows arched up into his head.

"Steve has his regular farmhands but in the Spring and all Summer, then into the Fall we get a crop of boys. You remember what I said about Steve's son? Well this farm has always been a struggle but several years ago the state made a deal with Mother and Steve. This is not only a farm but a camp, a camp for wayward boys and sometimes girls who have gotten on the wrong path. The kids come here kicking and screaming, but by the time they leave the screaming has stopped and we have good kids ready to become a productive part of society. We haven't lost any yet. Many have become doctors, lawyers and even our own sheriff. They all came through here and left good men. Many come back and volunteer their time. We keep the animals as a petting zoo. This is a crop farm. Our boys come back to tend the animals and help with the kids. Then there's the real farming and harvesting of the corn and wheat that we grow. I help out when I can. Our alumni donate their time and some of their money. The state does pay us but twenty boys eat a lot." John looked at Justin who blushed. Justin could attest to how much food would be consumed.

They turned their attention back to Gus and Daisy. Brian stared off, deep in thought.

"What?"

"Hmm?"

"What are you thinking, Bri?"

"A couple of things. I can't donate time but Kinnetik could certainly donate money, it'll make Ted happy. He's always trying to get me to donate to worthy causes for many reasons. And I can think of a couple of boys who should spend time here working on the farm."

"Brian, you're not suggesting that me and Gus work on the farm, are you?" Justin loved to visit but he was a city boy and Gus was way too young.

"No, twat. The Satan Spawn. My sister can barely handle them. A few months here should straighten out those demons." Justin thought about that for a moment. Brian's nephews were mean, homophobic kids and that meant they'd grow up to be mean homophobic men. Justin agreed, this place might do the trick.

Gus' ride was coming to an end and Justin walked over to get him. Chris helped Gus down and he began to run to Justin. Justin, paying attention to Gus, didn't see where his feet were going.

"Sonny Boy! Stop!" Not knowing which Sonny Boy, Brian was referring to, both Gus and Justin stopped in their tracks.

"Oh no." Brian moaned. Justin looked down and realized that he wasn't standing in mud.

He looked up at Brian then closed his eyes. "Please don't tell me."

"Yup. Sunshine, you found the only cow pie in the county."

"Shit."

"Exactly."

Gus giggled at the look of disgust on Justin's face, gave Justin and the cow pie a wide berth then ran straight into Brian's arms.

"Well, Sonny Boy, I think we've had enough fun with farm animals. It's time to go back to the house and get ready to leave."

"Hey, what about me?" Justin hadn't moved yet.

"You can ride home with Michael."

John and Ted had a good laugh as Molly took Gus from Brian to follow John back to the house. Brian lifted Justin out of the dreaded cow pie and helped him clean off his sneakers. By the time they got back to the house all remnants of said pie had worn off except for the embarrassment.

The rest of the afternoon was spent gathering up belongings and loading the cars. They took their time so they could talk and spend more time together. Gus spent some more time up in his treehouse before John took him down to the stream for some uncle/nephew quality time while people were packing up.

When the vehicles were all loaded everyone went over to the treehouse for a last look.

"It really is a masterpiece," Emmett said staring up into the tree.

"I want a last trip down the slide," Justin said.

He started to climb up the ladder and was immediately followed by Bobby and Emmett and then Molly and Ted and even Lindsay. They all enjoyed the slide one last time.

"I wish I had brought my camera," Jennifer said with a big smile at the activities of the young people.

"Next time," Claire said squeezing her into a hug.

"I've had a great weekend, Claire. Thanks so much for inviting me and Molly. I'd love to visit again."

"Any time!"

Michael and Ben and Hunter had just made their way up the tree when a shrill voice started screaming, "Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!"

Everyone turned as Gus came careening around the corner of the barn. He was running at full bore straight to his father. He held something in his hands out in front of his body.

"Daddy! Daddy!" he yelled again as he came to a stop in front of Brian. "Look what we found. Uncle John helped me catch him."

Brian's groan was heard by the whole group. He looked down into the eyes of a very large bullfrog who chose that moment to let out a large, "Ribbit!" Brian was sure it was the same giant frog that had stared him down when he had awakened down by the stream.

"Can I take him home?" Gus asked all excited.

"Um … no, Gus. I don't think he would survive in the city."

"Please, Daddy! I promise to look after him."

"No, Gus."

Tears started to well up. Brian squatted down to Gus' level. He knew everyone was watching how he would handle this. He hated being put on the spot like this. He hated everybody judging him. He should shoot John for helping Gus catch the damn frog.

"Gus," he said quietly. "If we take the frog home, he won't survive in the city. Don't you think it would be better to leave him in the stream? Then you could visit him the next time we come to see Grandma Claire and Uncle John."

Gus stared at his father and then looked at the frog who let out another "Ribbit". The tears that were about to fall retreated. "I don't want him to die," he whispered.

"Neither do I, so let's go put him back in the stream."

"Daddy, I love the frog. I don't want to leave him."

"He'll be fine," Brian said softly.

"Do you love him too?"

Brian glanced up noting that all eyes were locked on him waiting to see what his reaction would be. "Um … sure … I love Froggie too."

"Give him a kiss, Daddy, so he knows you love him."

Brian let out a long breath. If John had put Gus up to this, he was a dead man. "I don't think it's very hygienic to kiss a frog," he said weakly.

"Froggie is high-jenny," Gus said leaning over and kissing the top of the frog's head.

Brian knew he was beat, so he decided to get this over with in a hurry. He leaned in and kissed the frog's head. He heard a collective gasp from all assembled. "What?" he demanded.

"Did the frog turn into a prince?" Emmett asked.

"Or did Brian turn into a frog?" Ted parried.

"Or I could turn you into an unemployed frog, Theodore," Brian snapped, his eyebrow shooting up.

"Point taken," Ted said quickly.

"Come on, Sonny Boy. Let's take Froggie back to the stream." Brian put his hand on Gus' shoulder and began to steer him in the direction of the stream. As they walked away Brian could hear the comments.

"Did you see that?"

"Brian Kinney kissed a frog."

"And he didn't even flinch."

"Holy fucking shit, I can't believe I saw that."

"I wish I had had my camera."

"I wish I'd had a movie crew."

"Nobody will ever believe us."

"Wait till this gets around Liberty Avenue."

Brian turned as he neared the corner of the barn. "What happens on the farm stays on the farm. Do I make myself clear?" He glared back at the assembled family.

"Very clear."

Sure."

"Of course."

"Absolutely."

Brian and Gus disappeared behind the barn just as rolls of laughter sprang from everyone's throat. People were holding their sides as the gales of laughter swept over them leaving them helpless and spent. Some people collapsed on the grass. It went on for several minutes, until someone mentioned that Brian should be coming back soon.

When Brian and Gus came around the corner of the barn everyone had regained their composure. They waited in subdued silence as Brian and his son approached.

"Is Froggie safely back in the stream?" John asked.

Brian nodded. "No thanks to you," Brian snarked.

"I didn't do anything," John protested.

"Don't tell me Gus caught that frog all by himself."

"Well, I did help a bit."

"Uh huh," Brian said knowingly. "Time for us to take off."

"You're not really mad, are you, Brian?"

"Of course not. Gus and I brought you something from the stream."

"Oh?" John said recoiling a bit. He half expected a frog to leap out at him or a cow pie to come flying at his head.

"Show Uncle John, Gus."

Gus had one of his hands behind his back. He brought it out in front of his body and showed John the wild daisies they had collected down by the stream.

"For you and Claire. Thanks for a great weekend."

Everyone let out a collective sigh as John and Brian hugged and Gus took the flowers over to Claire.

There was a lot more hugging as people said goodbye and thanks and how much they had enjoyed themselves. They all piled into their cars and started down the driveway. Brian slowed as they went by the treehouse and they all had a last look at it.

"I love my treehouse, Daddy," Gus grinned.

"Me too, Sonny Boy, me too."

*******************************************************************************************

The Farm

Chapter 1

"Ladies and gentlemen, I called you all in here to say congratulations. Thanks to you, all your hard work and my brilliance, our first quarter profits have gone through the roof, which should make Theodore a very happy man. Maybe I'll be able to pay him. Now, I'd like to discuss our latest account..."

"BRIAN! You have to help me!"

"Hello Claire, so nice to see you. What brings you here, to my humble agency, interrupting my STAFF meeting!?"

"I saaiidd, you have to help me."

"I'd be happy to, you cu, uh, Claire. Why don't you go into my office and I'll join you shortly. Cynthia, would you please show my lovely sister into my office and get her a cup of coffee."

"Right away, Brian. This way Claire."

"Decaf! Now where were we?"

******************************************

"What can I do for you Claire?"

"Brian, the boys have become impossible. I want you do to something."

"Ah, yes, my dear nephews, as evil as ever, are they? What do you expect me to do with them besides hire a hit man? They're your Satan spawn. Why don't you and your wonderful husband do something about them? Or better yet, send them to spend some time with dear old Mom."

"I would if I could and you know that my husband left us. And Mom hasn't been well."

"Humph, that's what happens when you spend your spare time on your knees praying to a whiskey bottle."

"Brian, I always knew you were a son of a bitch..."

"Hold that thought, my private line. Hello? Hey, Sunshine. Hmm, sounds good to me, but uh, let me get right back to you, okay? Later."

"Brian, why are you looking at me like that? What's with that grin, you look like the Grinch. Brian! Stop it!"

"Claire, why don't you send the spawn to camp?"

"Camp? And just where am I supposed to get money for camp?"

"Don't you worry an oily hair on your head; let me take care of that. You just have the little monsters ready with 2 weeks worth of clothes this Friday afternoon. Now, if you'll excuse me, some of us work for a living."

"You know, Brian, you really are a fucking bastard!"

"Love you too, Claire. Bye!"

******************************************

"Yo, big bro, I need your help..."

******************************************

Late Friday afternoon the Jeep Cherokee pulled up in front of Claire's house. Two very disgusted brothers waited on the front porch. John and Peter had been screamed at, threatened and coerced by their mother to get their stuff together and wait out on the porch. She had refused to tell them where they were going or why, just that they would be gone for two weeks and it would be good for them.

Brian stepped out of the Jeep and stared at the two devils in front of him. "Are you ready?" he asked.

"Are you still gay?" John retorted.

"Yes, and I'm still bigger than you."

John frowned and made a face. Brian could tell he wanted to flip him off, but John had learned that fighting with Brian didn't often lead to victory. It led to bigger problems.

Peter had not had that experience so he dared to ask, "What the fuck are you doing here?"

"Taking you away for a lovely vacation in the country," Brian said sweetly.

"I'm not going anywhere with you," Peter replied.

Brian glared at him. He went to the front step and grabbed the two duffel bags sitting there. Justin popped the back door on the Cherokee and Brian threw the bags in. "Get in," Brian ordered, "or I'll throw you in there with the luggage and you can roll around for the next hundred miles."

Peter looked at Brian not believing what Brian had just said. "You can't touch me."

"Watch me," Brian said in a level voice.

"I'm going back inside the house," Peter said standing up.

Claire had been watching from behind the curtains. Peter turned the doorknob only to find it was locked. "Mom," he yelled. "Mom, let me in."

Claire left the door locked but she looked through the window and shook her head. "You're going with Uncle Brian. You can't come back in here."

"Fuck you!" Peter yelled. "I'm not going anywhere with that pervert!"

"I think you are," Brian said standing beside the car with his arms crossed.

"Mom!" Peter said through the door.

"Go with Uncle Brian," Claire repeated.

"Come on, Peter," John said moving towards the Jeep.

"I'm not fucking going," Peter replied stubbornly.

"Okay, John, hop in. Peter can spend the next two weeks on the porch if he wants. I think you'll like this place in the country," Brian said with a grin.

John climbed into the car. He knew he had made a big mistake falsely accusing his uncle of molesting him. He didn't want any more trouble. His mother had made life miserable for him for months after that happened. He had no idea what this trip was all about but he figured he might as well get it over with. Peter could play the asshole if he wanted, but John was pretty sure he wouldn't win this time, not with his mother keeping the door firmly locked.

Peter looked from Brian to his mother and back again. He could tell his mother wasn't about to give in, and John had ceased to be his ally. "Where are we going?" he demanded going to the other side of the car.

"Get in, and in a couple of hours you'll know," Brian said cryptically.

With a huge sigh Peter climbed into the backseat beside John.

"Buckle up," Justin said as he got into the driver's seat.

Brian slid into the passenger side and turned to the back. He looked at his two insolent nephews and with his Grinch grin he said, "John and Petey's excellent adventure is about to begin."

The boys cringed at the look on their uncle's face. What the fuck had they got themselves into?

About an hour later with tension thick enough to cut with a knife and a silence that hung heavy over them all, Justin pulled into a rest stop. He wanted to use the washroom and he wanted to get away from the four eyes that had been boring into the back of his head ever since they got into the car.

"Why the fuck are we stopping here?" Peter demanded.

"Um … you're not leaving us here, Uncle Brian, are you?" John asked with a sudden surge of fear coursing through him.

"Hey, that's a good idea," Brian grinned. "You could practise your foraging skills in the garbage, and when you got bored with that you could try hitchhiking. Who knows who you might hook up with?"

"I have to pee," Justin said giving Brian a dirty look. "If you guys need to go, now's your chance," he added looking into the back seat. He quickly got out and headed for the restrooms.

Brian climbed out and lit a cigarette. He leaned against the Jeep as he took a long drag. These kids were a fucking treat to be around!

He heard John's door open and the boy followed Justin to the restrooms. Peter opened his door doing his best to slam it back against Brian. Luckily for him it didn't reach. Brian suppressed the urge to yank the kid out of the car and hold him upside down over a nearby garbage can.

"Don't break into any of the machines," Brian called as Peter followed the other two inside.

Brian took a couple more puffs of his cigarette and then crushed it out. Justin came back and shortly after so did John. They waited on the sidewalk for Peter to appear.

"Where did Peter go?" John asked after a bit.

"Wasn't he inside with you two?" Brian asked.

"Didn't see him," Justin said. John shook his head.

"Shit!"

"Where could he have gone?" Justin asked.

"He's playing with us," Brian said. "Get in the Jeep. We're leaving."

"But … we can't leave him here," Justin said.

"Watch me," Brian replied and said it loud enough that if Peter was nearby he would be sure to hear. He made sure John was buckled in and then slowly got in himself.

"You're not really leaving him here, are you?" John asked.

Brian could hear the tinge of fear in his voice. He wouldn't leave Peter here for long, but he had to call the bluff or they would be doomed when they got to the farm. Peter would hold the upper hand. "Start driving," Brian ordered.

Justin glanced at Brian's steely face and backed out of the parking space. "You're sure about this?"

"I'm sure," Brian said through gritted teeth. If worse came to worse they could drive to the next overpass and come back for Peter.

Justin drove slowly through the parking area. He was almost to the lane that would take him back onto the interstate when he heard something and glanced in the side view mirror. Peter was running at breakneck speed behind them, screaming for them to stop. Justin grinned and put on the brakes. He saw the little smirk of triumph on Brian's face as he opened his door and yelled at Peter, "Hurry the fuck up!"

"You were fucking going to leave me here!" Peter gasped as he did up he seat belt and tried to catch his breath.

"There's a certain value to punctuality," Brian said. "Don't think you can out asshole me. I own the copyright on being an asshole."

Peter glared at his uncle but he decided not to say anything more. He looked at John who gave him a wan smile. They were both in big doo-doo.

Another hour of silence and they turned into the driveway at the farm. Brian could hardly wait until his charges met their Uncle John. They would shit bricks when they found out another member of their family was a fag.

******************************************

"So who do we have here?" John questioned as he came out of the porch door and gave Brian a fierce hug and Justin a peck on the cheek.

"John, I'd like you to meet my evil, no good nephews. This is John and Peter. I can never remember who's who and it really doesn't matter; they're both equally horrible. Boys, this is your Uncle John."

The boys looked up in horror then did a double take, seeing two pair of hazel eyes staring down at them, John, looking way too much like Brian for comfort.

John, the braver of the two, stood his ground but held out his hand to meet the elder John. Peter, seeing his brother actually being polite, held out his hand too.

"Where's Claire?" Brian asked.

"Out doing errands, she'll be back soon." John answered.

"Are we staying here?" Peter queried.

"Nope!" Brian responded enthusiastically. "You're staying at the best accommodations in town. Go get your stuff, time for a little hike in the woods."

As the baffled and slightly frightened boys got their gear, John, Brian and Justin huddled together to confirm the arrangements. John would lead the boys the long way through the woods to Steve's camp. Brian and Justin would fire up the grill for a little impromptu barbecue that they would enjoy when John and Claire returned.

John led the reluctant campers to Steve's farm.

During the walk Peter began to fire a volley of questions at John, including who he was, how was he related to Brian and didn't he think that Brian was a shit for being queer. John patiently answered all the questions and no, he didn't think Brian was a shit. John wasn't ready to reveal his own proclivities to his nephews, yet.

After an hour of stomping through the woods, John and his exhausted nephews arrived at Steve's camp. Steve, who was in on the arrangements, was there to greet them and show the boys to the bunkhouse.

At first the brothers thought it would be cool to be on the farm thinking it would be an adventure or like in the movies. They thought they would learn how to ride horses and perhaps how to lasso cows. They were in for a big surprise. After stowing their stuff under their bunks they joined Steve who was watching John ride one of the new horses. John, dressed in denim, sitting tall in the saddle looked like a tough cowboy and the boys were beginning to admire their new uncle who appeared to be everything they thought a man should be. And nothing like their Uncle Fag. They whooped and hollered as John rode the steed around the corral. John rode the horse toward them then jumped down. He then gave the lead over to Steve who called over one of the farmhands/counselors.

Addressing the boys, Steve instructed them. "Now, you two go with Bill. You can muck this gelding's stall, brush him down, water and feed him."

"You want us to what?" Peter exclaimed in horror. Little John stood dumbstruck.

"You heard me. Bill will help you. Now go and do a good job if you expect your supper!" Steve winked at John and Bill. "I'll be in to inspect your job. If you do it well then you eat." Bill led the horse and the two stunned brothers to the barn.

"They're going to be a handful those two," Steve said to John.

"Yeah, I can see that. But you'll soon fix it. Brian told me that John accused Brian of molesting him about a year ago, called the cops on him and everything. They're destructive and homophobic. I hope we can change all that."

"Don't worry, John. We haven't lost anyone yet. And they are family. We'll set it to rights."

"I hope so. We're having a little barbecue later on when Mother comes back from her errands. Why don't you join us and we can talk about their itinerary while they're here."

"Sure thing, see you later."

John took the short cut back to the farmhouse to join his brother and Justin.

******************************************

Within 15 minutes John was at the farmhouse sitting on the porch with a glass of iced tea in his hands. "You should have seen the look on their little faces when Steve told them they were going to clean out the stall. It was priceless." The four of them laughed wholeheartedly. Claire had returned and was preparing dinner. "Steve will be over in a while so we can discuss the rest of their chores."

"Justin."

"Yes, Claire."

"I'd like to show you something after dinner. I was looking for a tablecloth that I had packed away. My church is having a jumble sale and I was looking for some things to donate. While I was searching the attic I came across an old trunk. I didn't have time to look in it but I think it may have belonged to the artist Kinney. I know you like a good mystery. Maybe after dinner you and I can have a look in it."

"Oh boy! I'd love to."

Brian let out a little groan. "Claire, you know how he gets. He's like a dog with a bone." Beau looked up at his humans at the mention of a bone. "I have nothing for you, dog." Brian mumbled. Beau grumbled. "Don't get him started on another Sunshine File."

"Brian, you keep telling me I need something to occupy my time."

"I meant school. Okay, go ahead, search the attic. But if you start sneezing all over the place, don't blame me if I don't fuck a snotty twink."

"Briiaan!" Three heads shook in unison.

"What?" Brian stared back.

Chapter 2

Peter and John followed Bill into the barn.

"Yuck!" Peter said. "This place stinks."

"It doesn't stink," Bill replied. "Wait till we get to the manure pile. Now that stinks!"

"What do you mean? Manure … pile?" John asked putting the emphasis on the last word. He didn't like the sound of a pile of stuff that smelled like this barn. He watched where he placed his feet afraid that he was going to step in something disgusting.

"Grab one of those shovels each," Bill ordered.

"Why do we need a shovel?" John asked fearfully.

"There's lots of shit to shovel," Bill said with a chuckle that sent shivers up each boy's back. He led them over to Mercury's stall. That was the name of the gelding that John had been riding. He stopped beside the stall. "Shovel up the straw and whatever else is in there and I'll show you where to put it."

The brothers looked wild eyed at each other. They wanted to run, but they didn't know where the fuck they were or where they could run to. Each picked up a shovel and entered the square stall. The odor that they had found offensive before was magnified ten times inside the small box. They looked down to see two piles of still steaming shit.

"I'm not touching that," Peter almost whimpered.

"You don't have to touch it," Bill said calmly. "Just scoop it onto the shovel and I'll show you what to do with it."

"I … I can't," Peter gulped.

"You'll be surprised by what you can do at the end of a couple of weeks," Bill told them confidently.

Neither brother had any idea what that statement meant, and they didn't want to know what other gross and disgusting things they were going to be ordered to do. Peter wished he had stayed on the porch at home or run away at the rest stop. Anything that happened to him in those places couldn't possibly be worse than this. John just stared in disbelief.

"Get a move on," Bill said. "Dinner is in twenty minutes."

"I'm not hungry," Peter stated feeling his stomach turn over.

"Fine. We don't force you to eat."

"Then I'm not cleaning up this fucking shit!" Peter said defiantly.

"If you make that decision, you should know that you won't be eating until this stall is cleaned out. It's your responsibility. By tomorrow morning there will be more shit waiting for you, and the smell will be even worse. Not much fun on an empty stomach," Bill explained reasonably.

"You … you … you can't starve us and make us do slave labor," Peter said trying to sound strong and confident. It came out more like a whine.

"I think we can. You wouldn't be here if your guardian hadn't okayed it."

John looked at Bill. He knew the man was right. Their mother had given them to Uncle Brian. She wanted them straightened out, and this was the method of doing that. Nobody was going to save them. They were doomed to this place. John lifted his shovel and set it behind one of the piles of shit. He held his nose as he lifted it up.

"Follow me," Bill said. He led the boy out to the large manure pile behind the barn. "Throw it up on top."

John gave a heave with the shovel and then backed quickly away. He had visions of the shit raining down on his head. His little pile hit with a smack and stuck to the rest of the crap in the foul smelling heap. John turned to look at Bill as Peter emerged from the barn carrying his shovel of shit. Bill nodded towards the pile and Peter threw his on top. Both boys turned to look at Bill for approval.

"Step one," Bill said. "Now we spread some fresh hay in the stall."

The boys managed to do that with no trouble. Bill had tied Mercury outside. He waited for the boys to finish with the hay. When they came out he had curry brushes ready for them to rub down Mercury. He showed them how to do it and both boys began the task.

Mercury loved to be curried and they always started newcomers off working with the gelding. You could almost see the horse sighing in contentment. He nuzzled John's neck as the boy worked on his front flank. John giggled and patted Mercury's nose as the horse whinnied his approval. When they were finished with the brushing, Bill handed each of them a carrot and they fed Mercury. The horse nuzzled their hands as he looked for more food. They smiled at each other liking the soft feel of the horse's tongue against the palms of their hands.

"Let's get this fella settled for the night," Bill said as he led Mercury back into the barn. He handed the lead to Peter who clucked as Bill had done and got the horse into his stall. John latched the door behind the horse. They each scratched Mercury's nose and said goodnight.

"Could we maybe ride him?" Peter asked.

"That's a privilege to be earned," Bill replied. "If you do your chores and stay out of trouble, I don't see why you won't be riding Mercury in a couple of days." The brothers smiled. "Hungry?" Bill asked. Peter and John nodded. "Dinner should be ready."

They walked together over to the cookhouse.

******************************************

When Steve arrived for the barbecue, everyone looked up waiting to hear what had happened with the demon brothers. Steve grinned as he sat down.

"So did they muck out the stall?" Justin asked.

"Oh, yeah!"

"C'mon, Steve, spill. We want to hear all about it," John said.

Steve looked at Brian who had not said anything. Steve could tell the man was holding his breath waiting to see if any headway had been made with the boys. He quickly recounted what Bill had told him.

"They were eating their well-earned dinner when I left to come up here."

"I can't believe they shoveled the shit," Brian said shaking his head. "That had to be a humbling experience for them."

"That's the premise of the farm," John said. "These boys think their food comes from supermarkets and the most labor they ever do is carrying out the trash if somebody can make them do it. On the farm they have to work in order to get food, they have nowhere to run to, and they have only us inflexible old coots who don't give in. We always win."

"I bet it looks good on them," Brian said.

"You ain't seen nothin' yet," Steve chuckled as he dug into his steak.

******************************************

Halfway through dinner Bobby, who had an early shift at the Honey Bear, showed up. Claire immediately set out a plate heaped with barbecued ribs, grilled vegetables and a lightly buttered ear of corn. Brian raised an eyebrow at the overflowing plate, then grinned at John.

"What, you think your boy is the only twink around here with an appetite?"

The brothers started to giggle as said offended twinks fired back in unison, "I'm not a twink!" More giggles were shared as everyone settled in to enjoy Claire's fine repast.

After dinner the 'men' decided to sit back and enjoy the clear warm evening on the porch. Brian wanted to learn more about Steve's agenda for his nephews. Justin, who had quite enough of them during the ride to the farm, helped Claire with kitchen duty then followed her up to the attic.

Carrying lanterns, they found an old end table to set the lanterns on. "It's over here, Justin, in this corner. I might not have ever seen it but for a spider."

"A spider?!" Justin, who had many allergies, especially to bug bites, jumped at the thought of sharing his personal space with a spider.

"Don't worry; I think I scared it more than it scared me. I'm sure it's long gone. Besides spiders are the good guys."

"The good guys?"

"Yes, spiders keep the bad bugs from running amuck. I try to leave them alone except when they decide to take up residence in one of my cupboards."

"Oh. So how did the spider help you to find the trunk?"

"As I said before, I knew I had a nice crocheted table cloth up here. I was looking around for it and was startled by the spider. I followed it back to its web and found this old trunk hidden under this drop cloth. I must have been up here hundreds of times, with Patience, and with John when he was a boy. We use this attic a lot for storage but I've never noticed this trunk. I think it was waiting for you and Brian to come here before it decided to show itself."

"What makes you think it belonged to the artist? It could have belonged to Patience or Aidan."

"Look at the initials on it. They're faded but you can make them out."

Justin held a lantern closer to the front of the trunk. Under the lantern's warm glow, he was just able to make out the initials, J.A.B.K.

"Wow, I think you're right. Did you open it?"

"No. Something told me to wait for you."

"Claire, do you think there's something in it that may hurt your family or Brian?"

"I'm not worried about me but I am concerned for John and for Brian too. They're both still adjusting to this new family. That's why I prefer to show you rather than John or Brian. If it's a bunch of old canvases then we have nothing to worry about. But if the trunk is hiding some deep dark secret, I'd prefer them not to know about it. I don't condone lying but if it keeps them safe, I'll do it. And the owner of the trunk is long gone. I don't think he'd care at this point."

Claire and Justin gingerly removed the drop cloth from the trunk trying to avoid the dust from making them sneeze. Justin dragged the trunk to the center of the attic so that he and Claire would have more room to work. The old lock on the front of the trunk was rusted through and practically broke by itself.

"Here goes nothing," Justin said as the old hinges gave way and allowed Justin to get a look at its contents.

"You're right, Claire, there are some old canvases in here. This looks just like my trunk at home."

"Your trunk?"

"Yes. I have a trunk similar to this that I store my supplies in. Kinney did the same. But if he left the country, why is the trunk still here? You'd think he would have taken this stuff with him. I did pay attention in my art history classes. One of the reasons why we artists are starving is that our supplies cost so damn much. Brian would sneak into my trunk to take inventory. He'd replace my pads, pencils and paints. It took me some time to realize what he was doing."

"He's a good man, your Brian."

"Yes, I think so. Let's see what else is in here." Claire held the lantern closer as Justin began to lift out old rolls of canvas. Under the canvas were portfolios bound with leather straps. Each portfolio held dozens of sketches.

"Look! If these are all Kinney's these may be worth a small fortune," Justin exclaimed with an ear to ear grin. "If it's ok with you, when I go back to Pittsburgh I'll takes these to show Lindsay. Who knows, you may have enough here for a small exhibition."

Digging more into the trunk, Justin noticed stacks of letters tied with silk ribbon. Holding a stack in his hand, Justin turned a worried look toward Claire.

"Uh, Claire, we may have found your deep dark secret."

"Justin, it's getting very dark outside and these lanterns don't give off sufficient light to read 100 year old letters. Let's leave the letters up here for now. I'd rather look at them tomorrow or if you're planning to stay for a few days, we can look at them when we have more privacy. The sketches can come downstairs with us now. What do you think?"

"I think that sounds like a good plan. Besides, I think the spider came back and wants us to leave."

"Okay. Let's put this stuff back, except for the sketches and cover the trunk with the cloth. No one will come up here."

Claire and Justin put back the rolls of canvas and laid the letters on top of them before closing the trunk. They then draped the cloth over the trunk and beat a hasty but controlled retreat down the attic stairs. Dusting themselves off and getting a couple of glasses of iced tea to wash the dusty feeling out of their mouths, Claire and Justin brought the sketches to the dining table to look at them under the bright light of Claire's chandelier.

Many of the sketches were pencil renderings of the paintings that hung in Claire's home. There were also many portraits. Several portraits of Kinney's wife and children and even more of Patrick, Kinney's lover.

"This is definitely Kinney's lover."

"How do you know that?"

"The portraits."

"Justin, I'm not following you."

"I do the same thing. I've done it ever since the day I met Brian. A day hasn't gone by that I haven't sketched a picture of Brian or a part of Brian. It started as doodles, no offense, dick doodles, as Brian calls them."

"Must have made some impression on you," Claire said with a blush.

"You could say that. But there were other things." As Justin looked at the pictures lovingly drawn by Kinney, he could feel the passion that Kinney held for Patrick. "See?" Justin held up a penciling of Patrick's eyes. Never far from his own sketch pad, Justin flipped through the pages then slid the book to Claire. Claire gazed at a pair of eyes that so reminded her of her own son's and of Jack. They were of Brian's eyes, of course. But Justin drew them with the same love and passion that Kinney had. "It's like I'm looking into Kinney's heart. He did love his wife and look at the sketches of his children. He didn't stop loving them, he just loved Patrick more or in a different way. Now I understand."

"Understand what, Justin?"

"Brian. For a long time it hurt to know that Brian could love and say he loves Michael but he's never been able to say the words to me. He says them to Debbie, Lindsay and Gus but not to me. It hurt. But I think I understand."

"Justin, he loves you. Even a blind man can see how much he loves you. He just expresses his love without words. Brian plays with words all day long in his business. He knows the power of words, what to say and when not to say them. Maybe to him it's the feeling behind the words rather than the words themselves that are important."

Justin nodded. Brian's mantra was that actions spoke louder than words. He lived by it. Now Justin fully understood. Having an overwhelming need to be with his man, Justin made his excuses to Claire who stayed to examine the rest of the sketches.

As Justin joined the men out on the porch, Brian immediately noticed the wrinkle in Justin's nose. Sensing that something wasn't right, Brian got up and gave Justin a hug.

"You okay?"

"Yeah, I think I'm a little tired. Do you think we can camp out in the treehouse tonight?"

"Sure. I already brought the sleeping bags up there and John got us an air mattress so these old bones of mine won't complain so much in the morning."

"Your bones aren't old Brian. Just used to sleeping on a $400 mattress."

"Twat. Let's say our goodnights and get ready for bed."

"'Kay."

Brian and Justin said goodnight and took one of the lanterns to light their way to the treehouse. As they climbed the steps they heard Steve say goodnight as well and caught a glimpse of his own flashlight lighting his path back to the camp. John and Bobby went inside to join Claire.

Up in the treehouse Brian had the air mattress blown up and the sleeping bags were zipped together to form a warm soft cocoon. On the little table was an ice bucket and with a bottle of chilling wine. Two glasses sat next to the bucket. Brian lit a gel canister in the fireplace to complete the ambiance.

"And you said you don't do romance," Justin murmured into Brian's neck as he gave his 'not' romantic partner a hug and a kiss.

"I figured the next time we're up here Gus will be with us, so I thought I might as well take advantage of our time alone. It seemed the practical thing to do."

"Let's drink to your practicality," Justin said to Brian as he poured the wine into the glasses. Clinking their glasses together in a toast they each took a long sip. Brian, taking Justin's glass, set it as well as his own on the table. Slowly Brian removed Justin's clothing carefully putting them on one of the small chairs. He led Justin to the sleeping bags and settled him in. Then Brian topped off their glasses and handed Justin his glass. Justin sipped the cool crisp wine while Brian slowly stripped.

Instantly aroused at the sight of a naked Brian, Justin softly moaned into his wine glass.

"Feeling better, little boy?"

"Much."

"Good. I promise to make you feel real good."

Having no doubts in Brian's abilities, Justin finished his wine and lay down. Letting the warmth of the wine relax him, Justin settled himself and waited for his man.

Brian turned off the lantern; the fireplace offered a soft flickering light. He crawled into the sleeping bag next to Justin. Justin snuggled close.

"What was it?"

"Hmm?"

"What was it that spooked you?"

"Nothing spooked me. Claire and I found Kinney's old art trunk. He had the most amazing sketches in it. They reminded me of the sketches I do of you."

"He did dick doodles?"

"No, silly. But he did do many of Patrick."

"And it reminded you of the thousands you did of me."

"Yeah. Lesbianic, isn't it?"

"No, sweet. Just like you."

Brian carefully rolled on top of Justin, resting his forehead against the blond's. Closing his eyes and inhaling Justin's sweet scent Brian gently rocked their bodies together. Kissing Justin's eyes, his nose and mouth, Brian began an oral assault on his boy. No patch of skin was left untouched by Brian's mouth. Justin was a bundle of sensation, begging Brian to finish him off. Brian did just that. Swooping down on Justin's aching, leaking cock, Brian finished completing his assault. Justin came, screaming his love for Brian. Brian cradled his spent boy in his arms.

"Mmm, that was so good. But Bri, what about you?"

"That was for you. You can pay me back in the morning."

"Thank you. I promise to pay you back real good."

"Sunshine, of that I have no doubt. Now sleep. I have a feeling tomorrow may be a busy day."

"Okay, night, Bri." Justin said, yawning widely.

"Night, little boy." Brian hugged Justin close and kissed the top of the blond's head, wishing away any worries that might be floating in the blond brain. Soon Brian heard the soft snuffles telling him that Justin was asleep. Brian let himself relax then he too fell asleep, Justin still wrapped in Brian's strong embrace.

Chapter 3

Justin awoke with a start. He rolled over and into Brian's arms.

"Finally waking up, sleepyhead?" Brian asked with a smirk.

"This air mattress was great. I slept like a baby."

"Yeah, I just got finished wiping the drool off my chest."

"I don't drool," Justin declared.

Brian's eyebrow shot up, but he kept his mouth shut. He didn't want to fight, and even though Justin did drool, it was kind of endearing. He knew he was becoming a fucking lesbian as soon as that thought rolled through his head. "Time to get up," he said abruptly.

"No morning treehouse sex?" Justin asked batting his eyelashes.

"I have to piss."

"Over the railing."

Brian glared at Justin. "I did that for Gus because he couldn't wait."

"I'm surprised you didn't have a latrine installed up here."

"Hmm," Brian replied looking around.

"You're not…"

"No, I'm not," Brian said with a smirk, "but it would be convenient. Get up."

"Why?"

"It's morning."

"I have something under here that might interest you," Justin said suggestively. Brian could see him stroking himself inside the sleeping bag. He watched the hand movement and his eyes began to darken with lust.

"Wait a minute," Brian said stepping outside and emptying his bladder over the railing. "Did you hold that thought?" Brian asked as he reappeared.

"I was holding something else," Justin replied as he threw back the top of the sleeping bag revealing himself in all his naked glory. His hand held his rigid cock upright just waiting for Brian.

Brian let out a growl as he flopped down next to Justin, his tongue licking through the slit of Justin's cock, eliciting a deep moan. Justin held his dick ready for Brian as the man began licking and sucking the head. Justin squirmed and moaned as Brian increased the intensity of his tongue action.

"Ah, shit!" Justin moaned as Brian deep throated him. With Brian bobbing up and down on his dick Justin gave himself over to the feelings that swept through his body. Brian always complimented Justin on his blowjobs, but it was really Brian who was the master. Justin cried out as Brian finished him off. Brian swallowed and looked at his flushed and satisfied partner. He waited for Justin to open his eyes, as he licked his lips. Nobody tasted as good as Justin.

"You look like a cat who just finished a plate of milk."

"I feel like one. You are … deeelicious!" Brian said against his ear. It sent shivers all over Justin's body.

Justin glanced down at Brian's own hard on. "Want to fuck, big guy?" he asked with a grin.

Brian ran his hand down Justin's cheek. "I always want to fuck you. You know that, don't you?"

Justin nodded looking into the eyes he loved. "So what are you waiting for?"

Brian chuckled as he started rubbing against his lover. They were so good together. Rubbing turned to nips and bites and long, sensuous kisses. That was followed by a major rimming session before Brian finally entered his willing partner. They rode out the waves of pleasure that always swirled around them when they made love. Orgasm was the natural outcome, but it was also a by-product of their purest form of communication. Justin knew in those moments that Brian loved him more than anything on earth. And Brian knew that his love and commitment to Justin was the most enduring thing in his life. They had no doubts or regrets or fears in those moments. It was perfect.

They held each other tenderly when it was over. Justin turned his face up and they kissed. One last expression of what had just happened between them.

"Are you ready to get up now?" Brian asked with a smirk. The moment was over and Brian had to put the total emotion meltdown behind him. He could only deal with so much.

Justin knew this would happen. "I guess. Why are you in such a hurry?"

"I want to find out how John and Peter made out last night."

"You really care about what happens to them, don't you?"

Brian made a face but he didn't deny it. He grabbed Justin by the arm and pulled him up. They threw on some clothes and took the slide down to the ground.

After breakfast John, Justin and Brian made their way to the farm using the convenient shortcut. As they entered the yard they could see several boys in the process of feeding the horses, chickens and goats. John was one of them. Peter didn't seem to be anywhere around.

"Hey, John," Justin said looking at the boy who was sprinkling grain for the chickens.

"Did you come to take us home?" John asked hopefully.

"Afraid not," Justin admitted and watched John's face fall. "Don't you like it here?"

"I'm feeding fucking chickens! What's to like?"

"I used to do that when I was a kid," big John said with a grin. "Later I got to ride one of the horses as a reward."

"Bill said we have to be perfect for several days before we get a chance to ride. I'll never make it," young John said with a sigh.

"How be I speed matters up a little?" big John asked.

"You can do that?"

John grinned. "Anything for a relative … or a friend of Brian's."

The boy looked into John's eyes so much like his uncle's, but different. This man could do anything in John's eyes, especially if he could get him a ride on a horse.

"Finish up your chores," big John said as he headed for the farmhouse. "Brian, Justin, come along."

Brian and Justin followed him inside. There they saw Peter scrubbing the floor and he scowled at them, opening his mouth like he was about to curse them out. Then it clamped shut and he continued mopping the floor.

In Steve's office they all sat down.

"How are they doing?" Brian asked.

"John's been fairly cooperative after what I told you about last night. Peter is another story. That's why he's scrubbing the floor. He refused to help with breakfast so he got none. When I assigned him his chores with the other boys he gave me a mouthful. So he scrubs the floor, gets no lunch and no one is allowed to talk to him."

"Do you think you're making any progress with him at all?" Brian asked.

"Not yet, but it often takes a few days."

"We thought we'd go for a ride," John said. "Can John come with us?"

Steve thought for a moment. "Peter's almost finished washing the floor. I'll assign him to help saddle the horses, and then he can watch John get his ride. That might drive home the concept of good behavior being rewarded."

Justin grinned. "You are evil."

"Not evil. I just understand how these young minds work."

In the barn both John and Peter helped the adults saddle the horses. It didn't escape Peter's notice that they were saddling four horses, one more than John, Brian and Justin would need. He wondered if Steve or Bill would take the fourth one.

When everything was ready, big John helped Brian and Justin mount their horses. Neither had much experience with horses, but each had ridden a few times. Big John walked over to his nephew and boosted John up onto the fourth horse. John's grin was wide and excited.

"Hey!" Peter said. "How come he gets to ride?"

"Steve tells me John has been working and cooperating. That's all we ask of either of you."

"I've been working," Peter protested. He glared at his brother.

"Not willingly, and not without foul language," Brian said making eye contact with his nephew.

"Well fuck all of you!" Peter yelled as the riders moved away. "This isn't fair."

"The more you protest, Peter," Steve said coming up behind the boy, "the longer it will be before you get to ride."

"I don't want to fucking ride! I don't want anything from any of you. I hate you all!" With tears welling up in his eyes he ran into the bunkhouse and buried his head in his pillow.

Steve shook his head as he watched John bouncing along on the back of his mount. Peter was going to be a tough nut to crack.

"Uncle John," young John said when they returned from their ride, "thanks for getting Steve to let me do that. It was fun."

"You should thank your Uncle Brian. He was the one who got me to come down here this morning and see you guys."

John looked at his uncle. Grudgingly he said, "Thanks." Then he began unsaddling his horse. He hoped his Uncle Brian went home soon. Then he could have Uncle John all to himself.

Since it was close to lunch, the rule was that if you want to eat, you help prepare the meal. All the boys were assigned a job and they had to serve the adults first before they got to eat. John's job was to get out the loaves of bread and cut them up for sandwiches. Peter was assigned the task of pouring out lemonade for everyone.

At first John was perplexed, unsliced bread was a bit of a mystery to him. He looked around for an adult to ask for help. "Um, Uncle John, I've never cut up bread before, could you help me?"

"Sorry, John, I have to discuss something with Steve and Bill. Why don't you ask your Uncle Brian for help?"

"I don't think he would help me."

"You won't know until you ask." Begrudgingly, little John walked over to Brian who was deep in conversation with Justin. Little John stood near Justin, a little afraid to interrupt them.

"What is it John?" Justin asked the boy.

"I wanted to ask Uncle Brian something," John replied almost too softly to be heard. Brian looked up and readied himself for another insult.

"Uncle Brian, I have to cut up the bread for sandwiches. I didn't know that some bread needed to be cut, um, could you, ah, help me? Please?" Brian looked into the little boy's eyes; he wanted to tell the evil child to fuck off, but he didn't. This was the first time John ever addressed Brian with some sort of civility, Brian decided that his usual snark would be very inappropriate. "Yes John, I would be very happy to help you."

"Brian..." Justin, unsure of what may happen between uncle and nephew, was prepared to volunteer his services.

"Justin, I realize that I have absolutely no skill in a kitchen and that I'm risking one or perhaps two of my fingers but I think I can handle being my nephew's assistant." Both little John and Justin looked up and tried to figure out if this Brian was the real deal or a clone. "Come on, John; let's find a cutting board and a bread basket. Don't want the bread to go sailing all over the place."

"Okay." Brian and John went in search of bread slicing implements.

Big John came back to the kitchen and sat next to Justin. Not quite believing his eyes he asked Justin for verification. "Justin, am I seeing what I think I'm seeing?"

"Yes, you are. Amazing, isn't it."

"Definitely a Kodak moment. I'm glad we're making some progress with John; Peter is still another matter." John and Justin saw Peter struggling with the large heavy pitchers of lemonade, stubbornly refusing to ask for help. He got most of the glasses filled when he turned suddenly and knocked over a glass. It went crashing to the floor shattering into hundreds of sharp pieces. Brian yelled for Peter to freeze. "Justin, can you come here and help John finish with the bread, I'll help Peter."

Shocked but pleased with Brian, Justin got up to help John.

"Peter, don't move. You're standing in a lot of glass; I don't want you to get hurt." Brian's use of his commanding business voice got through to Peter who remained frozen to the spot. Brian picked up a broom and began to sweep the glass away from Peter. When the floor was clear, Brian lifted Peter out of the surrounding debris. He shook him a little to knock off any remaining shards of glass then gently deposited the boy in the opposite end of the room. Bill, who came running out when he heard the crash, finished cleaning up as Brian examined Peter.

"You're not cut, are you?"

Peter, still shocked at what had happened and that he wasn't being screamed at for doing something stupid, answered in a squeaky tear filled voice. "No, I don't think so."

"Sit here, I'm going to check your legs, okay?" Peter nodded as his eyes grew wide as saucers. As a matter of fact, all of the eyes in the room grew wide as saucers as Brian squatted and carefully checked Peter's jeans for any remaining glass and his legs for any cuts. Satisfied that there wasn't anything amiss with the boy, Brian stood up and exhaled loudly. "Phew, well that was a close one. Thank the gods you're not hurt. Your mother would tan my ass if I brought you back minus something. I'm hungry. You hungry? I think lunch is ready, let's eat."

"But, I'm not allowed to eat until I finish helping."

"I think you did a fine job filling all those glasses. I'll check with Steve first but I think it's all right for you to sit with us. Okay?"

"Okay." With the fixings for sandwiches on the table and the table set for lunch, the whole gang sat at the table ready to eat. "Steve, is it all right that Peter joins us for lunch. He finished his assignment."

"Yes he did. He deserves his lunch." Steve beamed at all his boys and the meal commenced without further ado.

After lunch, Bill had other jobs that needed to be done including milking the cows. Brian and big John decided to hang around and watch. Justin went back to the farmhouse. He was anxious to go back and take at better look in Kinney's trunk. Justin's curiosity into Kinney's life was getting the better of him.

******************************************

"Claire, I'm back! Do you want to go back up to the attic?"

"Are John and Brian with you?"

"No, they decided to hang out at the farm for a while. You should have seen what happened. Amazing. I think this experience may be a good thing for everyone and I don't mean just for Brian's nephews. I'm really proud of Brian. It must be this place; his paternal side is showing."

"I don't think it's just the farm. Brian really cares about his nephews. He wants them to turn out right."

"Maybe. Anyway, are you ready to go back up and take a look at the letters?"

"No need. I went up after you all left. Other than the letters and the sketches, there's nothing really important in the trunk. I took a good look in it and unraveled some of the rolls of canvas. It's just plain canvas, nothing on them. I checked over the trunk, no hidden panels. I brought the letters down here. I have an old shoe box. I can store the letters in it and keep them in my room. As far as John and Brian are concerned, the trunk contained the sketches. Until I'm sure nothing in the letters can harm them, I'd rather we keep the letters to ourselves."

"I agree. How do we start?"

"We put them into chronological order and then we read them."

There were four stacks of letters. Most of the correspondence was between Kinney and his wife. Several were to his lawyer and a few were to his children. Kinney tried to explain to his children his reasons for leaving them, asking for their forgiveness. Kinney's wife, Martha, was hurt by his need to be with Patrick but seemed to have eventually forgiven him. His son, Brian, never forgave the artist and didn't want anything to do with him. When he grew up Brian accepted his role as landlord; he eventually married and led a quiet respectable life on this estate. Martha never remarried and stayed on to help run the household, taking a secondary role to Brian's wife who, when she married Brian, became mistress of the estate. Kinney's daughter, also named Martha, inherited Kinney's artistic free spirit. The letters made mention of her sketches and paintings. Although she was sad that her father was not around, she eventually wrote to her father. A few letters were his responses. She never married, continued to paint and lived with her mother.

"Claire, later I'm going to look at the sketches again. Maybe they're not all Kinney's. Maybe some of them were done by Martha."

"Hmm, I never thought of that. That would be interesting, but they all look alike to me."

"Most artists sign their work. I'll look at them more carefully later. It's sad that Kinney and his family never got back together. I'm happy that our Brian was braver than that."

"So am I Justin, so am I."

They continued to read the letters, sharing their contents. It was slow going, but not because they were faded. The letters were in remarkably good condition. It was the elegant script that made it difficult to read.

"Justin, look, Kinney and Patrick started out in South America but somehow found their way to Mexico. It would be fascinating to find out if there's any record of them anywhere."

"Hmm, I wonder if I can get Brian to fly us down to Mexico for a vacation," Justin said with a very Brian-like tongue in cheek grin. Claire and Justin shared the humorous moment then put the letters away when they heard the boys coming up the path.

Chapter 4

The Kinney men were sitting on the screened porch drinking coffee while Claire and Justin cleaned up from dinner.

"I haven't seen much of Bobby lately," Brian observed. "Is everything all right between you two?"

"We're great. Bobby has been pulling extra shifts at the Honey Bear. He has another payment due for his schooling soon."

"You don't help him out?"

"I've offered but he wants to do it himself."

"Where have I heard that before?" Brian chuckled.

"Justin feels the same way?"

"Yeah, he did take a loan from me a couple of years ago after his father kicked him out and refused to pay for his schooling."

"Did his father refuse because he's gay?" John asked.

Brian nodded. "His father would pay if he renounced who he was and went to Dartmouth."

"That's the shits! Thank God Claire didn't feel that way."

"I can't imagine Claire being that judgmental," Brian observed. He quite admired the woman.

"She had a lot to deal with when she was young. Being an unmarried mother back then wasn't easy."

"What did she tell you about your father?"

"That he had to go away and that he would come back for us if he could," John said sadly.

"And that was enough?"

"For … many years. And, and … then the teasing started as I got a little older. I only wanted to be the same as everyone else, be accepted."

"Is that why you fought the idea of being gay?"

"I guess so," John said carefully. "I didn't want it to be true. I thought it was a phase. I tried to take it out on any woman I could find. But I was never happy. It was never enough."

"And with Bobby?" Brian asked.

John smiled. "It's great. I know who I am now. I love him."

Brian looked at his brother, at how easily he said the three words that Brian had avoided for so long. He didn't know what to say, so he changed the subject. "I was wondering if it might be a good idea to bring my sister up here to see how the boys are doing."

"I think Steve would tell you that it's usually not a good idea until just before they go home."

"Why is that?"

"All the progress they have made can be wiped out by a parent who gets weepy and gives in to them."

"You don't have to worry about Claire. She'd never cry over her demon spawn," Brian said sarcastically.

"You'd be surprised. They've been gone for a couple of days now. I bet she's worried."

"You'd lose that bet," Brian stated.

"Then call her and see," John challenged.

Brian raised an eyebrow. He wasn't sure he wanted to talk to his sister. What could he tell her anyway? That the boys hadn't told him to fuck off quite as many times today. They still cringed when they had to be near him … and so did Claire if he was truthful. She hated him and that's where the basis of the boys' hatred came from. "I don't think so," Brian said slowly.

"Suit yourself," John said standing. "I'm going over to the Honey Bear to spend some time with Bobby while he works. I'll bring him home later." John headed out the door.

"See ya' later," Brian responded idly. He was lost in thought about calling Claire. He knew he should. Some part of him wanted to. He took his cell phone out of his shirt pocket and stared at it. After a minute he hit the last number on his programmed calls.

"Hello," Claire said.

"It's Brian."

"Oh, thank God. I've been so worried. Is everything all right? Are the boys behaving?"

"They're fine. They seem to be making a little progress," Brian said trying to keep it non-committal.

"Where are they exactly?" Claire asked.

"On a farm. They're working hard, learning some of the basics of life."

"Basics of life? What does that mean?"

"They have to work for their keep. If they don't do their chores they don't get fed."

"Oh my God," Claire moaned. "They're going to starve to death."

"Claire, they're not starving. I had lunch with them and they really packed it away."

"Are you telling me the truth?"

"No, I'm lying," Brian said sarcastically. "I just called you up to torment you." He was about to hang up when he heard Claire say something he thought he'd never hear.

"Brian, I'm sorry." Brian's finger hovered above the "end" button but he waited. "I'm really sorry. I know you're not lying. You didn't have to help me. Thank you for taking them." There was a long pause. "Brian, are you still there?"

"I'm here."

"I meant what I just said."

Brian blinked back some tears that were threatening. "I'll call you in a few days and give you a report."

"Thanks," Claire said as Brian cut the connection.

Two thank you's in the same conversation. Brian couldn't remember the last time anyone in his family had thanked him for anything. They were happy to take, and they expected him to give. But they never thanked him. They seemed to think he owed it to them because he had made a success of himself … no thanks to any of them.

Brian pocketed his phone and went in the house to look for Justin. He needed a reality check after that surreal conversation with his sister.

******************************************

"Justin?"

"In the dining room."

"Wow, so this is your hidden treasure from the attic?" Brian said as he pulled up a chair and sat next to Justin.

"Yup, there's got to be at least fifty of them. I wish I had a magnifying glass. They're not all signed or the signature could be hidden in the sketch. Many artists do that. The penciling is a bit faded; I don't want to touch them too much."

"Now, I know you belong back in school. You sound like the History Channel again."

"Thanks, I think. Where's John?"

"He went to the Honey Bear to watch Bobby's ass at work. My big brother has got it real bad for that redhead. I'm surprised he ever lets Bobby out of his sight."

"They're in love, Brian. You can understand a little how John feels, can't you? Searching around for years for someone to love, for someone to come home to, to make love to, for someone to love you back."

"Yeah." Brian pulled Justin onto his lap and sighed into the blond's ear. "I'm beginning to understand lots of things."

"I think I've had enough of looking at old sketches. As wonderful as they are I'd rather look at you, naked, in the treehouse."

"Hmm, I think that can be arranged. Don't you want to go to the Honey Bear, and stare at Bobby's ass too?"

"Nah, I think my time would be better spent staring at your tight little ass."

"And that's the only thing that's little on me, twat."

"Asshole. Let's go take a nice shower. We still smell a little like the farm. I want to smell only you when we go to bed."

"Sounds like a good plan." Brian helped Justin put the sketches into the old portfolios and secured them with the straps. They bid Claire a goodnight then headed for the shower.

After their shower and donning sweat pants and t-shirts, Brian and Justin grabbed their lanterns and took the short trek across the front yard toward the treehouse.

"Brian? Are you going back to Pittsburgh tomorrow?" Justin asked as he started up the ladder.

"Yeah. I have to. As much as I'd like to hang around here and watch your bubble butt climb up and down this ladder all day, I'm needed at the office. We scored a few new clients last week. They all need babysitting until their campaigns are in full swing. Why, you want to stay on here?"

"I was thinking about it. It would be unfair to leave your nephews all for John and Steve."

"John has to go to work too. It's Bill I really feel sorry for. He's taking the brunt of the little demons. But I agree with you. I know parents leave their kids here all the time but I would feel better if you stayed, sort of en loco parentis."

"My feelings exactly and then I'll have time to look over the sketches more carefully. I may ask Claire if there's a craft shop or art supply store in town. I'd like to pick up a better portfolio for the sketches."

"Uh huh, and maybe a sketch pad or two for yourself?"

"Well, it is very pretty here, lots of subjects for me to sketch and paint."

"So, I gather that one of my credit cards will be staying with you."

"Brian, I will pay you back."

"I know you will. Besides like most good little gay boys you are a very good shopper. A credit to your race and to Emmett. Now that fag knows how to shop." The lovers shared a laugh; they both had been on the receiving end of one of Emmett's shopping sprees.

"Bri, have you noticed that little John kinda likes your brother?"

"Yes, I've noticed." Brian said with a sad tone that Justin could hear. "I'm sorry, Brian, I didn't mean to upset you."

"You're only stating the obvious. My nephews never liked me and when they learned I was gay, that put the nail in my coffin. John spent all his life in the het world. He doesn't look or act gay. Or what people think we should act like."

"Brian, do you know how ridiculous that sounds. I know many women who would swear on their bras that you weren't gay. And very few at Ryder or at Vangard were aware of your sexual orientation."

"True, my ass doesn't swish like someone in this treehouse."

"You like the way my ass swishes."

"Yes. I. Do." Brian punctuated each of his words with a kiss to the nose of the ass swisher, making Justin giggle. "I wonder if the shit is going to hit the fan if John and Peter find out that John isn't as straight as they think he is."

"You mean the horse shit?"

"Yeah, that too."

"I guess we'll find out. Brian..."

"Justin, it doesn't matter. I don't expect them to suddenly grow a conscience and decide to like me. I just want them to become more human, more tolerant. There's been too much hatred in my family. I'm tired of it." Justin sensed that some of Brian's protective walls were about to spring up. He knew he had to act quickly before Brian closed himself off.

"Brian, you know what else I'm very good at?"

"What?"

"This!" Justin pounced, catching Brian unguarded and rolled on top of the man. Pulling Brian's t-shirt up, Justin latched on to a nipple and sucked as if his life depended on it.

"Fuck!" Brian cried out as all the blood drained from his brain and filled his cock. No more thoughts of demon spawn, out of the closet brothers and horse manure were possible. The blond and his ministrations were the only thoughts that Brian could muster. The last thoughts that registered in Brian's mind were the words spoken by Justin.

"I'll show you just how good my ass can swish." Brian could only grunt.

******************************************

Sunday dawned bright and sunny. As Brian and Justin slid down from the treehouse, they looked up at the clear, blue sky. There wasn't a cloud in sight. It was going to be downright hot.

After breakfast Brian and Justin made their way over to the farm. Brian thought he would like to take another ride and they needed to get it in before he had to leave to go back to Pittsburgh. Brian suggested they ride the horses through the woodlot and then circle back to the stream. They could take a swim and then fuck on the grass … provided a certain giant bullfrog was nowhere to be seen.

When they arrived at the farm, they saw Steve talking to Bill in the yard and walked over to the two men.

"Morning, lads," Steve said with a smile.

"You're smiling," Brian observed. "Guess you haven't had to kill the two little treasures I brought you."

"Not yet," Steve admitted.

"Is that a possibility in the near future?" Brian asked. Something In Steve's tone of voice made him wonder.

"They're a hard lot," Bill admitted shaking his head.

"I thought things were going better," Justin said.

Steve grimaced. "That's what's so hard about them. Just when you think you're making progress they revert to what they were like when they first came here."

"What happened?" Brian asked.

"They got up this morning … late. They missed their chores for breakfast. Had no explanation of why they were late, not that that would really make a difference. They know their responsibilities. They just choose not to do them."

Brian shook his head. "Their mother often let them away with things that she shouldn't have. She either screams at them or ignores their misbehavior. They've learned to ignore her."

"Sounds like we need to work with their mother before these two go back home," Steve said.

"You do that?"

"Yeah, when necessary, and it's often necessary with kids like these. The kids don't know how to behave because the parents never knew how to be parents."

"I think you just described my family in one sentence," Brian said sadly.

"Anyway," Bill said, "You guys here for a ride?"

Justin nodded. He looked over at the bunkhouse and could see the demon spawn watching them. "Are they allowed out?" he asked.

"Not unless they're prepared to work," Steve replied.

"Could they saddle the horses for us?" Justin asked.

Steve nodded. "Peter, John, come over here." Both boys brightened up, probably thinking that they had been sprung. They ran over to the men. "Go saddle the two horses your uncle and Justin used yesterday."

"Can I go too?" John asked.

Brian looked at Steve. Steve decided to be the heavy. "You didn't do your breakfast chores. You get no privileges until you make up for that."

"So I can't go?" John asked looking crestfallen. Then his face hardened and turned downright ugly. "I hate this fucking place. I can't do anything except work, and wait on you assholes. I'm not doing anything for any of you fags." John bolted for the bunkhouse as Brian made a grab for him.

John escaped and Steve grabbed Brian. "Let him go, Brian. He'll learn his lesson eventually," Steve said.

"What about you?" Brian said to Peter.

Peter smirked. "John has finally come to his senses. I'm not doing any more work either." He sauntered towards the bunkhouse to join his brother.

"Fuck!" Brian reacted.

"They think they've won, but when they get hungry later today, it'll be a different story."

"Watch them. They're dangerous when they work together," Brian said as he went into the barn. He wanted to get on a horse and ride far away where there were no horrid nephews, only blue sky and blue eyes and a willing body.

Riding on the horses that were so gentle that the most inexperienced rider could handle, Brian and Justin made their way through the thicket toward the stream. At the bank, Brian jumped down and tethered his horse. He helped Justin down off his mount and tied the horse to another tree. The lovers stripped and took a dip in the cool stream. After some teasing and splashing around, Justin led Brian to the bank of the stream to lie in the warm grass. Brian looked up nervously.

"Brian, what's the matter? You look as jumpy as a cat."

"Can't help it."

"You worried that your nephews may see us?"

"No."

"What then?" Justin asked, very concerned for Brian's fragile emotional state.

"The frog," Brian mumbled.

"The what?"

"The frog," Brian said louder and blushing with embarrassment. "I'm looking for that damned frog. I don't want to be slimed before I go back to Pittsburgh."

Justin cracked up with laughter. As hard as he tried to contain himself, he couldn't. Justin knew that he'd pay dearly for this indiscretion but he couldn't help it. Brian looked too cute for words.

Brian did his best to look insulted and hurt that Justin was so inconsiderate but Justin's laughter was way too infectious. Brian snorted then giggled then burst into a belly laugh. The lovers laughed like hyenas; the tension brought on by the terrible duo melted away. Brian grabbed Justin and hugged him close to his chest.

"Thank you."

"For what?"

"For this, for making me laugh, for being you." Justin looked up to gaze into the hazel eyes that were sparkling with flecks of gold. He silently thanked whatever gods that were watching, blessing him with this complex bundle of contradictions known as Brian Kinney. Justin kissed Brian then let Brian lead their way in making love.

Afterwards, the lovers washed away the sweat and cum in the stream, dressed then remounted their horses for the ride back.

"Justin, let's have lunch back at the house. I don't want to ruin my good mood by dealing with the spawn."

"Good idea, besides, it's a long ride back to the Pitts. You don't need to start out with road rage.

"Claire, after lunch I'm heading back to Pittsburgh. Do you mind if Justin stays for the week? I'll come back next weekend and bring Gus if Lindsay gives me the okay."

"Brian, that's an excellent idea. I'd love to see Gus, and Justin and I can spend more time with the sketches."

"He's got you wrapped up in his little mystery, doesn't he?" Claire smiled at Brian and nodded. Still keeping the discovery of the letters from John and Brian, the time alone with Justin would make it easier for them to read more of the letters.

"Perhaps when you return, your nephews will have made more progress."

"One can only hope," Brian replied only half believing what he said.

With lunch finished and Brian all packed, he kissed Justin, gave Claire a hug and a kiss and said his goodbyes to John and Bobby. They waved as they watched the Cherokee drive down the lane.

Chapter 5

Justin moved into the main house now that Brian was gone. He didn't like the idea of sleeping in the treehouse without his partner. He helped Claire with dinner Sunday night and sketched a bit and they looked at a few more letters. However, Claire liked to read them in the daytime finding it easier to read the difficult hand of the writer in the light of day.

Sunday passed into Monday and Justin told Claire he was going to walk over to the farm Monday morning to see how the boys were doing. He had promised Brian to keep an eye on them and send progress reports. Justin sincerely hoped it wouldn't be a "lack of progress report" that he would be relaying to Brian.

He wandered into the yard and saw laundry being strung along one of several lines that had been set up between the bunkhouse and the main building. There was a boy pinning shirts to the line. Justin approached him.

"Is it laundry day today?" he asked hoping to strike up a conversation.

"No, this is virtual reality and I'm stuck in Hell," the boy replied with a snarky attitude.

Justin smiled slightly and asked," Is Steve around?"

The boy nodded towards the main building and Justin headed that way. As he opened the door, he could hear raised voices and he was sure he recognized one of them.

"I don't fucking know how to do laundry, and I'm not touching someone else's dirty underwear," John said.

Justin groaned inwardly. This couldn't be good.

"John, you know what the rules are. You are responsible for one load of laundry this morning, and it just happened to be underwear," Steve explained calmly.

"I'm not doing it," John stated.

Justin stood inside the door and listened. He wished he knew a way to fix things for John and Peter but they brought grief on themselves and wouldn't thank him for any interference.

"This is not negotiable. You do your chores or you get no privileges and no food."

"I'm not doing it," John said again.

Justin wondered where Peter was and if he had put John up to this defiance. He stepped into the laundry room. "Excuse me," Justin said. Steve looked up and shrugged. "Could I have a few minutes with John?"

"Sure," Steve replied and went out of the room.

"Do you know how to do laundry?" Justin asked. John shook his head. "If I show you will you try it?"

Justin watched John's face light up. He thought maybe he could teach the boy something and make life better for everyone. It was worth a try.

"You always sort clothes by color and whites," Justin began.

"Why?"

"Whites will absorb color so you don't want to mix them or you might have to wear pink underwear."

"Like you?" John sneered.

Justin wanted to shake the little asshole but he ignored the comment. "Then you set the controls. Hot water." Justin turned the dial.

"Why?"

"Whites can take hot water, colors will fade."

"How the fuck do you know all this shit?" John asked.

"I learned the hard way, by fucking up all my clothes."

"And then you get new ones," John said with a satisfied grin.

"Not if you have to pay for them yourself."

"Doesn't Uncle Brian pay for you?"

"Not usually. I try to pay my own way."

"Then what good is he to you?" John demanded. Justin wasn't about to explain that.

"He's a selfish bastard," John declared. "Mom always says so."

"Brian is not selfish! He does lots of things for many people."

"Like what?"

"Um…" Justin hesitated. He knew Brian wouldn't want his nephews or anyone else to know about his charitable acts. How could he explain about Concerned Citizens for the Truth or the Liberty Ride or Vic Grassi House?

"See, he's a selfish bastard," John said smugly.

"I'm not arguing about this," Justin said. "You add the fabric softener in this ball and then choose the cycle you want. These are considered 'delicates'."

"Delicates," John sneered. "Like you?" he repeated with venom in his voice.

"Push 'start' and wait," Justin said and went to find Steve. He should have known better than to try to help Brian's asshole nephew. All he ever got was aggravation. He found Steve and told him what had happened. Steve didn't seem surprised. He said they had a long way to go with those boys. He and Justin talked about what might be tried with them in the future.

After a few minutes Justin and Steve heard someone hollering somewhere in the building. They bolted up and raced down the hall to find John completely covered in soap suds coming out of the laundry room. He was batting huge wads of bubbles away from himself and coughing and sputtering.

"What have you done?" Justin yelled.

"I … I didn't do anything," John said. "Justin filled the machine."

Justin opened his mouth to deny it, but didn't get the chance. Steve grabbed John by the scruff of the neck and propelled him back into the laundry room. Holding onto the boy he managed to turn off the washer. He fought through the suds finding a mop and pail.

"Start cleaning up this mess. You stay in here until it's fixed to my satisfaction," Steve said doing his best to keep his voice level. He gave John a shove into the suds and walked out of the room. The door closed from the outside and Steve slammed it shut, turned the deadbolt lock and brushed the suds off his clothes.

"I didn't put in too much soap," Justin said lamely.

"I know you didn't," Steve grinned. "Don't think for even a second that John's the first kid to think he can sabotage this place by overloading the washing machine."

Justin studied Steve. He supposed the man had seen just about everything from these kids. "Do you think he will clean it up?" Justin asked.

"Doesn't matter. The suds evaporate eventually, and he'll get sick of standing in a pool of water. And then he gets hungry. It'll get done eventually."

Justin shook his head and smiled. "Do you think I could call you on the phone to get the next report on those two?"

Steve smiled and clapped Justin on the back. "Come back in the office and I'll give you the number."

Justin returned to Claire’s house immediately after getting the phone number for the farm. He couldn’t stand one minute longer being anywhere near the spawn. And he was beginning to think this it was impossible for the boys to change. Trying not to be disappointed and dreading the phone call he’d eventually have to make to Brian, Justin let himself back into the house.

"Back so soon?" Claire said with a sunny expression.

"Yeah, it was laundry day and it was John’s turn at the washing machine. I was trying to help by showing him what to do. But he purposely overloaded the machine then tried to blame it on me. I had to get out of there."

"Justin, it’s only been a few days. These things take time. You’ll see, by the weekend, real progress will have been made."

"Do you really think so?"

"I’ve seen it happen. Now, you ran out of here so quickly that I’m sure you didn’t have a proper breakfast. Let’s have a little something to eat then we can go into town. The Kinney sketches are in remarkable condition but they won’t be for long in those old portfolios. We have a decent art store. I think you can find something to do the sketches justice."

Justin smiled one of his sunny best, pleased that he and Claire were on the same wave length. After their breakfast, Claire and Justin went to town.

It was late in the afternoon when Claire and Justin got back to the house. Claire immediately went to the kitchen to prepare the fixings for dinner. Although both John and Bobby were working, they would be home for dinner. Claire wanted dinner ready for them. This gave Justin the opportunity to transfer the sketches into the new portfolio. He examined each sketch carefully trying to determine if Kinney drew them or could it be a sketch by Martha. Using the magnifying glass that he bought, Justin discovered that Kinney did indeed sign all of his sketches. Neatly in the lower right hand corner was his ‘JABK’ and the date. Martha was a bit creative with her signature. The work of female artists was not always appreciated and for many years they were outcasts in the artistic world. Martha’s signature was hidden in her work. And it often looked similar to her father’s, only a trained eye could decipher the difference. Pleased with his little discovery, Justin set aside the sketches to read more of the letters.

The letters were still slow going but Justin was beginning to understand the script and style of writing as he went along. Many of the letters were boring, Kinney writing to his lawyer, making sure his family was well looked after. The dates indicated that it could take many months for a reply to reach Kinney. One letter took almost a year to reach the artist then several months to get back to Pennsylvania. The letters moved faster when Kinney and Patrick finally settled in Mexico close to the Texas border.

One letter piqued Justin’s curiosity. It intimated that there were many other paintings in existence, not just the ones that Claire had in her home. Kinney had painted many landscapes and the people of South America and Mexico. He had shipped them back to his wife for safe keeping and for Martha, hoping that eventually they would increase in value and become more of a legacy for them.

Noting it was getting late and John would be returning soon. Justin packed up the letters and returned them to the safety of Claire’s room. Joining Claire in the kitchen, Justin said, "Claire, I put the letters back in your room."

"Good, John and Bobby will be home soon. Dinner should be ready within the hour."

"Smells good." Before Justin could elaborate his stomach did. "Claire, the paintings that were hanging in your hall, are they the only ones that you know of or do you have more in storage?"

"I may have one or two up in the attic but that’s all I have. I’ve never seen any others. You have to remember that the main house burned down. Maybe they were lost in the fire."

"When was the fire?"

"I’m not sure. Obviously Kinney had already left the country. And Aidan never mentioned a fire so I assume it must have been around the time that Brian was master of the manse. Why do you ask?"

"I’m not sure; it may be nothing. Your house, the house that you grew up in, is that still standing?"

"Yes. Actually, now that you mention it. My cottage, that’s what we called it because it was rather small, may have been part of the original mansion, or a late addition to it. I believe it was the cook house at one time. It does have the largest kitchen that I’ve ever seen and only two bedrooms. It was later renovated but only two or three people can live there comfortably. I rent it out for extra income."

"Does it have an attic?"

"No."

"Oh." Justin said very disappointedly.

"But it does have a root cellar."

"A root cellar!" Justin exclaimed; his hopes went up a notch.

After dinner Bobby decided to go over to the farm and check on Brian's nephews. Justin had told them what happened with the laundry and that he had no intention of going back to the farm for several days. Bobby said he'd go get a firsthand report that Justin could relay to Brian.

About an hour later he returned chuckling to himself. Everybody wanted to know what was so funny. He told John to get them some beers and he'd tell the story. When they were all seated on the screen porch with their libations, Bobby started his tale.

"It seems that the nephews have been getting into trouble quite regularly. Whatever they are required to do as chores they are trying to sabotage," Bobby explained.

Justin groaned. "I was afraid of that. John tried to sabotage the laundry. What else have they done?"

"Steve had quite a list," Bobby chuckled. "They were supposed to weed the vegetable garden. Steve found them sitting under a tree eating carrots they had just pulled."

"At least the carrots are good for them," Claire observed.

"True," Bobby agreed, "but you haven't heard the best part. When Steve caught them and started reading the riot act, Peter told him that they had seen a rabbit munching on the carrots and had scared it off. They were merely eating what the rabbit had left behind."

"Holy shit!" John reacted. "How stupid do they think Steve is? Nobody would believe that cock and bull story."

"They're city kids," Bobby replied. "To them that probably seemed like a feasible story."

"So what did Steve do to them?" Justin asked.

"That's the good part. He told them that if they finished weeding the garden in the next hour they could eat all the rabbit reject carrots that they could find."

"But why is that funny?" Justin asked.

"They were done in no time," Bobby said. "They ate their fill of carrots which the boys can have anytime they want anyway, and they think they put one over on Steve. He in the meantime got them to cheerfully do their chore."

"That's genius," Justin said with a grin.

"The next part's the best though," Bobby explained. "You should have seen Steve's face when he was telling me."

"What do you mean?" Justin asked.

"He showed the boys how to hand milk the cows," Bobby said.

"Hand milk as opposed to…?" Justin said.

"As opposed to using milking machines," John explained. "Steve likes the boys to do the work manually on the farm. It reconnects them to the earth, to animals, to where they came from."

Justin nodded as Bobby continued. "So Steve demonstrates how to milk. John sits down beside Bossy and Peter was with Flossie."

"Do they all rhyme?" Justin giggled.

"There's also Mossy and Posse," Bobby laughed. "They were getting desperate he added as he spelled the name of the last cow. Anyway, Peter starts pulling the teat. Nothing happens so he pulls harder. Nothing happens so he gives Flossie's teat an almighty yank. She lets out a huge moo and turns her head and butts him off the stool onto the barn floor. Peter is indignant, but Steve tells him that he has to learn to milk a cow before he can go home. Apparently Peter said something about never being able to escape the hellhole of the farm. Flossie mooed again and emptied her digestive system making it splatter all over Peter's shoes and pant legs. John got some milk from Bossy immediately thereafter and promised to show Peter how to do it the following day. Steve sent them both off to do laundry on their shoes and jeans."

"Oh, they'll be shitting themselves," Justin grinned.

"Or bossy and Flossie will do it for them," John laughed.

"Steve says to tell Brian he's charging him for psychiatric fees for Flossie. She has been traumatized and hasn't stopped mooing ever since," Bobby said with a chuckle.

"Oh, now Brian will shit!" Justin responded.

"Poor Flossie," Bobby said. "We went to look at her in the barn. She has this wild look in her eyes and moos pathetically. I really do think she needs counseling."

"Don't we all where John and Peter are concerned," Justin said shaking his head. He hoped Brian wouldn't be too upset with his nephews. Maybe he should get Bobby to talk to him. He could make it a funny story and take Justin off the hook of one of Brian's tirades. With all his twenty years of wisdom Justin decided he'd make that call later.

 

*****
 

"Hey."

"Hi."

"What’s wrong or should I take a wild guess."

"Yeah, it’s the spawn. I’m sorry Bri; I don’t think this is working. Matter of fact, I think they're getting worse. It’s a whole waste of time. And they’re taking up space that some really needy child could use. I’m sorry I didn’t try to talk you out of this."

"I’m not. Look, I knew there was a good chance that none of this would work but I, we, had to try. If nothing else, my sister has 2 weeks of quiet. Maybe her mood will improve and she actually will have the time to wash her hair."

"But Brian..."

"No buts, unless it’s your fabulous butt. You and Claire have fun with your little mystery of the sketches. Leave the spawn with Steve and Bill. It’s only been a few days. By the end of the two weeks they’ll either be so hungry or so bored that they’ll beg me to take them home. I can torture the evil bastards all the way there."

"Okay."

"Cheer up Sunshine, it’ll work out. You’ll see. Now where are you and are you naked?"

"Brian!"

Chapter 6

Over the next couple of days, Justin took Brian's advice and ignored the farm and the potential horrors that may be happening over there. Justin concentrated on the letters. Claire's time was taken up with her church jumble sale so Justin was on his own during the day. He enjoyed having the time alone to sit and read the letters and to get reacquainted with his own art.

He packed up the letters, his sketch pad and pencils, made a few sandwiches and he and Beau, who also enjoyed the quiet, would go to the stream to sit by the rock. It was a peaceful retreat along the bank of the stream. Justin would read some of the letters then put them aside to sketch. By Wednesday, Justin had filled his pad.

Wednesday afternoon found Justin again by the stream. He had almost finished reading all the letters and was disappointed that they garnered little information. Justin was coming to the conclusion that whatever paintings Claire had were the only ones in existence. Then he came upon a sentence written by Kinney to Martha.

"The rumors of war persist. I fear we must leave this place for a safer village. I am sending all my work to you for safe keeping. I understand you owe me nothing. I have only brought shame upon you and our children. For them I ask if you would keep the paintings safe. Sell what you will if the sum is tidy. I hope that in some way I can be of use to you."

Justin wasn't quite sure what war Kinney was referring to but he intended to find out. He also thought it was about time that the letters were made known to John and eventually to Brian. There was nothing in the letters that could harm either of them. On the contrary, if Justin could find the paintings, a small fortune might be the result. He would consult with Claire before he did anything. If what he surmised was true, for the next phase of his mystery, Justin would need help.

******************************************

Claire arrived home fairly early that evening. Justin helped her to prepare dinner and they discussed the contents of the letters.

"Claire, I think we should tell John and Bobby about the letters. There's no need to tell Brian yet. I can show them to him when he comes this weekend."

"I agree. The letters only confirm what we already know. Kinney and Patrick left the country and eventually settled in Mexico. I'm sorry to say that history was never my strong subject but John always loved history when he was in school. I bet he could help."

"So, we tell them at dinner?"

"Agreed."

As dinner was winding down, Claire began to reveal the latest mystery.

"Jackie, I'd like to discuss something with you and with Bobby, of course."

"Oh, oh. Whenever you call me Jackie, it's not good."

"That's not true."

"Mother, what is it? Are you all right?"

"I'm fine; Justin and I want to tell you something?"

"Please don't tell me that Justin has gone straight and you and he are leaving for Canada. I don't want to break Brian's heart when I tell him the news."

"What?" Claire and Justin both exclaimed then stared mouths open at John.

"I'm sorry, you looked so serious, I needed to liven things up a bit."

"John, if it had gotten any livelier, Justin would have had a stroke," said Bobby dryly.

"Can we focus here!" Justin said becoming very frustrated. "Look, Claire and I found more than just some old sketches in the attic. We found that Kinney had written to his wife and there may be more paintings hidden around here, somewhere." Justin paused to catch his breath and scan the faces of his audience. "I need some help with something that Kinney wrote to Martha. Martha was his wife."

"What did he write, Justin?" Justin had John's full attention.

"He mentioned that there was a war coming and they, he and Patrick, needed to leave their village. I don't know what war he was talking about."

"Where were they living? I thought they were in South America," Bobby questioned.

"It seems that when Kinney left he did join Patrick in South America but then they made their way to Mexico somewhere near Texas."

"The Alamo." John stated.

"What?" three voices rang out.

"Justin, you discovered that Kinney lived from 1802 to 1879. He probably was married by the time he was twenty and started his family. It was a hard life back then, most people were dead before age thirty. It was the affluent who lived longer. The events of The Alamo happened around 1835-1836. You said that Kinney and Patrick settled in Mexico near Texas. That could be the war he feared. What makes you think there are more paintings?"

"He wrote to Martha to ask her to keep the paintings safe. He and Patrick had to leave and he didn't want to leave the paintings. He sent them here."

"If that's true, do you think they could have survived all this time? Mom, you told me that the original house burnt down a long time ago."

"True, but if Martha was so careful with the trunk she may have been equally careful with the paintings."

The room became quiet as the four tried to digest all that they had learned. After a few minutes Bobby made a suggestion.

"Justin, I'm off tomorrow, I can help you search for the paintings but do you have any idea where they could be?"

"Yes!" Justin said in all confidence.

"Justin, don't get yourself all worked up over nothing. They may not be there."

"But Claire that's the only place that makes any sense."

"Would somebody mind telling us what the hell you two are talking about? What place?" John looked back and forth from his mother to Justin.

"The root cellar," Claire said.

"What root cellar?" Both John and Bobby asked.

"The root cellar under the cottage."

"There's a root cellar under the cottage! Mother, why is this the first I'm hearing about this?"

"I had the cellar sealed up when you were born. Let me explain. When I found I was pregnant I came here to live with Aidan and Patience."

"I know all that."

"After a while my parents softened up, especially after you were born. You were a beautiful baby. So happy, so sweet and loving. But you were also a precocious and curious child. You got into everything. I asked my father to seal up the root cellar. We never used it but it had two entrances, one from inside the house in the kitchen and another entrance from outside. My father sealed up both so that you couldn't get in."

"Well that explains a lot."

"What do you mean, John?" Bobby asked as he moved closer to John and took his hand.

"I've always been interested in how things were built, the materials, the structure. This house has an attic for storage. If the cottage was the original cook house for the mansion, it would only make sense that a root cellar would be a part of it. There was no such thing as refrigeration, so most grand homes had to have a root cellar to store food for the winter. At one time I was going to try to find the original plans for the mansion, I had no idea what I was going to do with them, just call it curiosity."

"Huh. Claire, could we go there tomorrow and look?"

"I don't see why not. I know where the entrance was in the kitchen. There's a false panel along one wall, it shouldn't be too hard to open, and the door is behind it. We'll need lanterns and may be a ladder. The old stairs may have rotted away."

"Justin, I don't have any clients to see tomorrow and my foreman can handle things; we'll all go. It may be dangerous. Let's get a good night's rest and we'll load up the truck with the things we'll need. I'll make a list now."

The next morning Claire was up with the birds to make a hearty breakfast for the boys. While she was cooking, Bobby and Justin helped John pack up the gear they would need in his truck. Anxious and bouncing on his toes, Justin wanted to go to the cottage. He forced himself to eat breakfast and listen to John's instructions.

"If we find the entrance, I'm going down first." Cutting off Justin before he could protest, John continued. "Justin, if the stairs still exist they may look solid but be rotted through. I'm not risking any of you."

"But John, I'm probably the lightest one of all of you. Wouldn't it make sense for me to try the stairs?"

"No. If the stairs are there I'm going to demolish them then drop the ladder down. We'll secure the ladder to the foundation then lower a lantern. I'll let you go down but not before I put you in a harness and we'll secure that too. We go nice and slow. Is that clear?"

"Yes, John." Claire, Bobby and Justin replied.

******************************************

At the cottage, Claire unlocked the kitchen door as the boys unloaded the truck and started to bring the tools and ladder into the house. The quaintness of the cottage pulled at Justin's artistic heart. He stared in wonder at the stone structure.

"This is beautiful Claire. I'd love to live in a cottage like this."

"Justin, I rent out the cottage sometimes. You're welcome to stay here any time."

"Really? I think Brian may like it too. I know he loves his loft but sometimes there's too much traffic."

"You mean outside, the street noise?"

"No. I mean all the people who come in and out." Bobby and John started to giggle, remembering the night they stayed at the loft and all the people who barged in and out.

"I don't think I understand." Claire was perplexed.

"I'll explain later, Mom. I promise. Let's open the cellar before Justin tries to do it with his bare hands."

Claire showed John the false panel which he easily removed. The door to the cellar offered little resistance to John's crowbar. As he suspected, the stairs seemed to be intact. Taking a heavy sledge hammer, John tapped the first step. It crumbled into dust.

"Just what I thought. Bobby, hand me that rope." They watched as John looped one end of the rope through the handle of the hammer. He lowered the hammer to each step, tapping as he went. Each step crumbled.

When the steps were gone, John lowered his ladder and temporarily fastened it to the frame of the door. He then lowered a lantern to the floor and tied off the rope.

"Well, Justin, this is your show. Let's get you harnessed up and we'll secure you to the center island. It's made of granite. I guarantee you won't fall."

"John, I don't think you should tell Brian that you got Justin in a harness. He may take it the wrong way." Bobby laughed as he got out the words. John cocked his head then laughed as he finally got it.

"Bobby, can you lower the other lantern as Justin goes down. Try to keep the lantern to the side but level with his feet."

"Will do."

Working together, Justin slowly descended into the cellar, John letting out the slack of the rope attached to the harness and Bobby lighting his way. At the bottom, Justin took the lantern and began to explore.

"Do you see anything?"

"Not really and it's very cold."

"That's the purpose of the root cellar. If they're constructed correctly they maintain a mean temperature of about 50 degrees. It helps to preserve food," John stated.

Looking up at the three faces, Justin nodded then added. "And that's a good temperature to store paintings."

Treading slowly and adjusting to the dim lantern light, Justin made his way to the far end.

"Hey, I think I see something."

"What?" Claire shouted down.

"Wait." Stacked against the far wall and protected by thick heavy oil cloth were what Justin hoped were the paintings.

Upstairs, in the kitchen, Claire, John and Bobby waited impatiently. They couldn't see Justin but they heard him scratching around and then a loud gasp.

"Justin, you okay?" John shouted. "Justin? Hey, Sunshine! What the hell are you doing?" John yelled in his best Brian voice.

"They're here! They're all here! Oh my god! There's so many of them." Justin walked back to the ladder.

"Well, let's get them up here and have a look." Claire said.

"No."

"No?" All three answered back. "Why?" they again said in unison.

"We can't move them, not until we have a special place to store them. I'm coming up and I'll explain."

John and Bobby helped Justin up the ladder. Claire put the kettle on.

"As much as I want to look at each painting I'd have to check with Lindsay or maybe with Sidney Bloom. He's the owner of the art gallery she works for. The coolness of the cellar has preserved the paintings. If they're suddenly removed they may crumble like those stairs. I'll call her and get her advice."

"Can we look at them down there?" Bobby enquired.

"I think so but I would only recommend we go down one at a time. The carbon dioxide that we exhale could also ruin them. They need to be examined, cleaned and possibly conserved. I'm really not sure."

"Then let's not take the chance. Call Lindsay when we get back to the house and we'll abide by what she and Mr. Bloom suggest."

The mystery hunters left the ladder and tools in the kitchen. John secured the door and replaced the panel, keeping the root cellar air tight. They went back to the main house to call Lindsay.

After consulting with Lindsay and Sidney, they all knew that Justin had made a very wise decision. Sidney told Justin that he would arrange for a special temperature controlled truck to go up on Friday and he himself would supervise the removal of the paintings. Lindsey would arrange for conservators to meet the paintings when they got back to Pittsburgh. It might take several weeks to sort everything out but this would prove a very valuable find.

After hanging up with Lindsay and Bloom, Claire announced her decision.

"I think if the paintings prove authentic and valuable I'll consult with Lindsay and perhaps your friend Ted. He was very helpful the last time. If any money is to be made, I'd like it to go to the farm. Steve has struggled with it for so many years. Donations are not always reliable. The proceeds of the paintings could maintain the farm for years."

"Mother, that's an excellent idea." John said, hugging his mother. "The money would go to a very worthy cause. Justin, I know you and Brian have been disappointed in the lack of progress made by your nephews, but this is cause for celebration. Call him. See if he and Gus can come up on Friday too. We'll celebrate in style."

Justin smiled and went to call Brian.

Chapter 7

Justin showed Sidney Bloom down the ladder to the paintings in the root cellar. Sidney had a camera with him and took pictures of the find before the paintings were disturbed. He wanted to chronicle the discovery of the paintings as well as the sketches and letters. Sidney felt the whole lot would make an excellent exhibit. He carefully lifted and examined each painting before handing them to Justin who passed them up the ladder to one of the men who would wrap the painting then place it in the climate controlled truck.

By the time Sidney handed the eighth painting to Justin his excitement was palpable. "This is a phenomenal find, Justin!" he gushed. "When Lindsay told me about it I could hardly believe that there could be so many J.A.B. Kinney paintings that had gone undiscovered all these years. They're in remarkable condition considering where they've been kept."

"It's cool down here which helped," Justin said as he handed another painting up the ladder. "Plus the cellar has been boarded up and no one has disturbed the paintings for many years."

"Very lucky indeed," Sidney replied as he handed the last painting to Justin. "Twelve, a nice even dozen."

"Do you think there will be a market for them? Claire wants to sell them and give the proceeds to a youth farm that operates on her property."

"That's very generous," Sidney said with a frown. "Are you sure she realizes the value of these paintings?"

"Most definitely she does."

"If she will allow me to clean them and advertise the sale, I think she's looking at close to a million dollars for the lot."

"Fuck!" Justin reacted. "That's way more than I thought."

"There's a market for gay artists and Kinney was one of the first to make his sexuality an issue, even if it was rather unwillingly."

"You seem to know a lot about Kinney," Justin said thoughtfully. "I just found out about him a few weeks ago."

"I really like Kinney's work. I think I could do justice to the sale of his paintings."

"I'll talk to Claire about it. After the paintings are cleaned maybe she'll come to Pittsburgh and meet with you."

"I'd like that. I was hoping to meet her today," Sidney said.

"She does some volunteer work on certain Fridays of the month. This was her day."

"Well, I'll look forward to seeing her in Pittsburgh soon," Sidney said as he climbed the ladder.

The climate controlled truck and Sidney's Mercedes were just pulling out of the cottage drive when Brian's SUV arrived at John's. Justin waved as he came down the driveway behind the truck and Brian stopped by the road waiting for Justin to catch up.

"Hey," Brian said as Justin climbed in. They leaned towards each other and shared a gentle kiss.

"Hey," Justin smiled as they broke apart. "I missed you."

"Me too," Brian grinned.

"Justin," Gus said from the back seat.

"Hey, buddy, I didn't forget about you. I'm happy to see you both."

Gus smiled back and said, "Treehouse!"

"It's still here," Justin laughed. "You want to sleep in the treehouse tonight?"

"Yeah," Gus said. "With you and Daddy."

Brian and Justin exchanged a glance knowing they would have to find some time for the grown-up boys to sleep together before they had to go to the treehouse with Gus. Their dicks had been idle for far too long already.

"Is Claire or John or Bobby home?" Brian asked.

Justin shook his head. "The guys are working and Claire is volunteering."

Brian did his best to stifle a groan of disappointment.

Some time later they had got settled in. Brian suggested that Justin take Gus for a swim and he would go to the farm and check on his wayward nephews. He would join Gus and Justin when he came back.

As Brian walked into the yard of the farm he spotted John and Peter in the vegetable garden off to one side of the bunkhouse. The boys looked up and he thought he saw John give him a little smile but it quickly faded. Peter just looked defiant.

"Hey, boys!" Brian called.

Neither replied. Brian frowned and glanced over as he saw Steve come out of the house.

"Brian," the man said warmly.

"Are you still speaking to me after I dumped those little assholes on you?"

"They're not so bad."

"I hear I'm paying for major cow therapy," Brian chuckled.

"We'll discuss that later, but I wouldn't go near Flossie if I were you."

"I'll take that under advisement. What's up with those two?" Brian asked cocking his head in the direction of his nephews.

"They're on strike. They refuse to speak."

"Fuck!"

"It's all right," Steve said. "Much quieter this way. They're doing their work and not sabotaging things at the moment."

"So how is silence a protest."

"In their minds it is, and they could have done a lot worse things, so let them carry on."

"That's exactly what I'll do. I'll come over once more to see them before the end of the weekend."

"That's good. Maybe we'll have better news then."

As Brian walked back towards the stream, he wondered if anything would ever get through to his two nephews.

Joining Justin and Gus at the stream, Brian quickly stripped down to his shorts and waded in. The cool water was a soothing relief from the heat of the August day and the heat generated by Brian's annoyance over the spawn. Determined not to let his nephews ruin his weekend with his boys, Brian put them temporarily out of his mind. The three splashed about until grumbling stomachs told them it was time to go back to the house.

"There you are!" Claire picked up Gus and gave him a noisy raspberry to his cheek. Gus giggled and hugged her neck. "I'm glad you came up." Claire continued and she gave Brian a kiss to his cheek. "There's a certain young man who's been missing you." Claire nodded toward Justin and watched his pale cheeks start to blush.

"Oh? I thought with all this solving of hundred year old mysteries and digging up of some old paintings, you wouldn't have time to miss me." Brian countered back while prying his son off of Claire so that she could start dinner.

"Brian, you know that a day hasn't gone by that I haven't thought about you, don't you?" Justin replied looking up through his lashes, his blush deepening.

Brian and Justin stared at each, lost in their feelings. The heat of their longing for one another was almost palpable.

"Gus, would you help me with dinner. John will be home soon and he's going to be real hungry and I know you're a little hungry too after your swim. Why don't you sit here in the big chair, you snack on carrots and keep me company. Then you can tell me all about the stream. Is that okay with you?"

Gus beamed at the thought of sitting in the big chair and having an adult concerned about his day.

"Brian, do you think you and Justin can bring this bone out to Beau? He's in the barn. Sometimes he gets stubborn so I don't expect you back for at least 30 minutes. Dinner should be almost ready by then. Gus and I can have a nice long chat." Claire grinned and winked at Brian. Now it was Brian's turn to blush. But he remembered his manners as he gave Claire a kiss and whispered a thank you into her ear. Grabbing the bone in one hand and Justin with the other, Brian and Justin went to the barn to deliver Beau's bone.

Beau greeted the lovers at the door of the barn, graciously accepted the offering and found a quiet patch of hay to enjoy it. Brian led Justin to the ladder of the loft storage area and watched as Justin ascended. Momentarily bewitched by Justin's ass as he climbed, Brian's mind raced with calculations. How many different fucking positions could they achieve in thirty minutes? Still deep in thought, he didn't notice that Justin had made it to the loft and was looking down at him with an ear to ear grin.

"Hey, big boy! You gonna day dream about my ass all day or you gonna get up here and fuck it?"

Brian snapped out of his reverie, climbed up the ladder and pounced on his boy.

As fast as they could, the lovers rid themselves of their clothes. Their hands feverishly working while trying to keep their lips locked in an all consuming kiss. By the time they were naked they were already panting with need and desire. Brian got the supplies he had from his pocket and quickly readied himself and Justin. After a week apart, Justin's tight ass felt tighter, as Brian slowly entered. Two loud groans echoed throughout the barn.

Needing the intimacy of seeing each other's face during their love making, Justin's legs were over Brian's shoulders. Justin's toes began to curl as he felt himself filled by Brian's long cock. Buried balls deep into his boy, Brian waited until they both regained control, their mutual orgasms threatened. Brian eased out halfway then re-entered, slowly finding a controllable rhythm.

Folded in two and helplessly locked within Brian's arms, Justin gave himself over to each thrust, trusting in Brian's mastery and in his compassion. The momentary twinge of pain, gone. All that remained was the pleasure.

Brian pleasured Justin as well as himself, angling each thrust so that his cock raked over Justin's prostate. The moans and gasps spilling from Justin fueled Brian's passion. Brian, truly a master of sexual pleasure, kept fucking until Justin screamed and shot hot ropes of pearly cum all over their chests. Brian gritted his teeth and rode out the waves of Justin's orgasm.

Grabbing an ankle in each hand, Brian held Justin's legs far apart then pounded the blond until he too came, filling his condom. Brian had just enough energy left to ease Justin's legs down and carefully withdraw from Justin's still spasming ass. He plopped down next to Justin in the soft hay. Both men spent and breathless.

"Mmm, you have the best ass in the whole world," Brian whispered into the blond's hair.

"At least in the state of Pennsylvania," Justin chuckled back as he snuggled into Brian's chest.

Brian wrapped his arms around the boy but commanded, "Don't get too comfy, our thirty minutes are up." Justin groaned but he nodded. He remained on Brian's chest a minute longer then reluctantly he got up to sort out their clothes. They quickly got dressed.

"Come on, Gus must have talked Claire's ears off by now. We didn't swim that long today." Justin nodded handing Brian his shirt. Brian used it to wipe down Justin then himself. He stuffed the soiled shirt into his back pocket then descended the ladder. At the bottom, he waited for Justin.

"Sore?" Brian asked while gently patting Justin's rump.

"A little, but it's a nice sore." Justin replied, stretching up to kiss Brian's brow that threatened to furrow. "I may need a pillow to sit on at dinner."

"How about you sit on my lap."

"Mmm, I like that idea. But I think Gus may beat me to it."

"Justin, you and Claire solved your mystery and there's nothing we can do about the Satan spawn except leave them in Steve and Bill's capable hands. Come home with me on Sunday. The loft seems too quiet."

"I thought you liked quiet."

"I do but you've gotten quieter as you've aged."

"Uh huh. Well then I guess I should go home with you. We can be quiet together."

"Yeah, I love being quiet with you." Brian slung his arm over Justin's shoulder as they headed back to the house.

Justin snaked his arm around Brian's narrow waist, "I love being quiet with you too."

John was already there when the lovers came back from feeding Beau. "Did Beau enjoy his bone?" John asked sweetly.

"Oh yes, he enjoyed it tremendously!" Brian answered with his patented grin.

"But I see he must have given you both a difficult time of it. Not only are you both covered in straw; Brian, you seemed to have lost your shirt in the process. I think dinner can wait for a few minutes while you two get cleaned up. Gus has been so helpful with dinner and he helped John get the treehouse ready for tonight." Claire chuckled at the lovers.

Brian and Justin, taking the hint, ran off to clean the sex off of them.

With Bobby working late at the Honey Bear, it was the five for dinner. Pulling Brian aside while they were clearing the table for dessert, Claire made a suggestion.

"I didn't want to say anything in front of Gus, but why don't you take him to Hershey or to the Amish country. Gus would enjoy it. I'll leave the pamphlets on the table; after Gus falls asleep you and Justin can discuss it."

"Good idea."

After Gus had bedded down for the night, Brian and Justin took the slide down and sprinted to the house. Claire sat in the porch so she could keep a watch on the treehouse while Brian and Justin looked over the travel pamphlets. They agreed that bringing Gus to Hershey would make a wonderful day trip.

Saturday morning Justin, Brian and Gus set off for Hershey Pennsylvania. They had read the brochures and planned what they were going to do. They would start with the Hershey Trolley Works where they would ride around the town in a vintage looking trolley listening to the history of the chocolate hub of the world.

When they finished the trolley ride Brian was sure he already knew more about chocolate than he would ever care to know. Gus was getting a little restless so instead of going to Milton Hershey's home for a tour they decided Gus would like the Hershey Factory Works better.

When they arrived they were signed up as workers at the factory and got a badge stating just that. Brian rolled his eyes but Gus and Justin proudly wore their badges as they got ready to package Hershey Kisses that were coming along the conveyor belt. Brian ended up helping Gus as Justin was having too much fun bagging his own. After a minute Brian got into the swing of it and Gus' giggles were infectious. When they were done they of course received some Kisses to eat. Even Brian indulged in one and helped Gus to eat several.

They then moved on to the Chocolate Works Machine where they could capture cascading Hershey products and make up their own personalized assortment of candy. Gus was more fascinated with the cascade than the actual chocolate. He loved pushing the buttons to get his special concoction.

By this time Brian decided that his two boys needed some real food to supplement the chocolate they had been devouring all morning long. It was already almost two, so they made their way to the KitKat Café where they were able to purchase real food. Justin and Gus each got a sandwich and Brian opted for a salad. He thought he should restrict his caloric intake after all the chocolate they had been bombarded with all day.

When they finished lunch Gus had gotten his second wind and wanted to go work in the factory again. Brian was sure he really wanted the chocolate Kisses at the end, but they went through the process once more. By the end of this Gus had chocolate all over his face and clothes and was beginning to fade. They decided it was time to head back to John's.

Gus did his best to stay awake on the ride back, but he dozed off. When they pulled into the driveway he woke up and looked at the older men from sleepy eyes. He had chocolate ringing his mouth and looked adorable with his chocolate laden T-shirt.

"Tired, Sonny Boy?" Brian asked as he helped Gus out of his booster seat.

Gus nodded and leaned his head against his father's shoulder. He was just about out. Brian carried the sleepy boy into the house and Claire told him to put Gus on her bed for his nap. She handed Brian an afghan to cover him even though it was a warm day.

When Brian came down Justin was nowhere in sight. Claire said the young man was waiting for Brian in the treehouse. She winked and Brian raced out to their hideaway. He quickly climbed the ladder and found a naked Justin waiting patiently, or maybe not so patiently. He was sprawled on top of the sleeping bags, stroking his dick and moaning softly.

"How dare you start without me?" Brian demanded looking at the tempting sight before him.

"I couldn't wait," Justin said with a grin. His eyes were hooded and full of lust. "I missed you so fucking much all week long."

Brian's clothes evaporated and he dropped down beside his lover. "You're just a horny teenager," Brian said with a smirk.

"I'm not a teenager anymore," Justin chastised. "But I am horny and I did miss you."

"Me too," Brian replied earning him a big grin from his beautiful blond.

"So when are you going to do something about it?"

"About what?"

"About the horny part," Justin said with a scowl. He knew Brian was playing him.

"Um … right now," Brian stated capturing Justin's mouth with his own. Kisses and caresses led to what they both wanted and needed. It was very satisfying after their all too brief encounter in the barn.

Finally Brian rolled onto his back and studied the ceiling of the treehouse. He let out a long breath and turned to look at Justin. "You okay?" he asked with a frown.

"Better than okay," Justin smiled. He studied his partner. "Is something wrong?"

"I was thinking about how Gus was today. He had fun, didn't he?"

"He had a great time."

"We're not … spoiling him, are we?"

"Spoiling him? Where is this coming from, Brian?"

"I … I think Gus is great. Most of the time he's happy and it doesn't really take much to entertain him." Brian paused and Justin waited. He knew something important was brewing in Brian's mind. "But sometimes he shows his stubborn streak."

"Like his father's?" Justin asked with a grin.

Brian's face sobered completely. He looked into Justin's blue eyes. "You don't think he'll turn out like me, do you?"

Justin frowned. "What do you mean? He could do a lot worse."

"Yeah, like my fucking nephews! The Kinneys sure make great role models!"

"Gus is not going to be like your nephews," Justin stated.

"You can't be sure of that. I … I worry about him."

"Come here," Justin said pulling Brian on top of him. "Gus is a great kid. He will never need the farm to straighten him out. He has two great mothers and a great father, so stop worrying." Justin gave Brian a long, soft kiss and then cooed, "Fuck me again, Brian. We need to use every opportunity we get. We're sleeping up here with Gus tonight, remember."

Brian groaned and then started humping against his willing partner. "Let's not waste any more time," Brian said as he sheathed his cock. When he drove into Justin he did his best to banish his worry about Gus and his nephews. What would be, would be.

When the sated lovers returned to the house after their tryst, Claire told them that Gus was just wakening and they had time for a shower before dinner. Working later that night at the Honey Bear, Bobby had time to join them for dinner. Claire shooed everyone out of her kitchen so she could work on her feast. She had five hungry boys to feed and she needed the room to do it.

Brian and Justin found Gus still on Claire's bed, stripped him down and prepared for their shower. It was a tight fit in the old bathroom but they managed. Gus loved to shower with his dads, making him feel like a big boy.

After the shower, all three squeaky clean big boys in their clean clothes joined the rest of the family in the dining room. Each family member picked a chore to help Claire. Bobby and Justin helped Claire with vegetables and salad. John got out the iced tea and milk while Gus and Brian set the table.

At dinner, Gus regaled the family about his day. Brian grumbled about how much chocolate he was forced to eat and about how fat he was going to get. The adults just stared at the youthfully thin Brian in disbelief.

Gus just reminded his daddy of how much he was loved. "Daddy, you're not fat. Besides, there would be more of you for me to love." Gus crawled onto his daddy's lap then reassured Brian how so unlike the spawn he really was. "I had the bestest time today. Thank you, daddy."

"I had the bestest time too, Sonny Boy." Brian closed his eyes as he hugged Gus. Justin was right, as usual, Gus would turn out all right.

After dinner, Brian and Gus helped Justin to pack up his stuff for the ride back home to Pittsburgh the next day. They agreed that there was no reason for Justin to stay. Justin had filled two sketch pads, there was nothing to do about the evil nephews except to trust in Steve and the farm and the Kinney mystery was laid to rest. Brian was restless and wanted Justin all to himself.

Chapter 8

During the week that Justin and Brian returned to Pittsburgh Claire's boys had a semi-eventful time. They continued with their silent strike thinking somehow they were punishing Steve and Bill and the other boys by depriving them of their words of wisdom. Most of the other people at the farm were only too happy not to have to listen to their continual belly-aching about how hard done by they were.

On Monday they were assigned to making salad for lunch. The cook who supervised all the meals showed them how to wash the lettuce, spin it dry and then tear it into bite sized pieces. When the cook went to help some other boys who were assigned to cooked vegetables, Peter tried to start a food fight with his brother. He had thrown the first handful of lettuce when Steve walked in to check on them. A fistful of lettuce hit Steve in the chest as Peter ducked to avoid John's retaliation.

Both boys froze. They wondered what horrible new job they would be given to atone for this most recent sin. John remembered when Uncle Brian had stuck his head in the toilet. Peter thought back to all the screaming matches he had had with his mother.

"Pick up all the lettuce you have cleaned," Steve ordered deliberately not raising his voice.

The boys looked at each other. Peter shrugged and lifted the bowl in which he had already placed all the lettuce he had torn up. John picked up the salad spinner in which he had placed a whole head.

"Outside," Steve said and waited for the boys to pass him and exit the building. Each carried their container of lettuce.

When the boys had disappeared from view Steve winked at the cook and the other boys. He nodded towards a couple of heads of lettuce lying untouched on the counter. They split the heads and each took about half a head.

"Now," Steve said and they ran out the door firing hunks of lettuce at Peter and John. Taken by surprise, Claire's children stood and were pelted for a whole minute. Then they realized they had their own ammunition and began throwing chunks of lettuce back at their attackers. Bodies shucked and ducked and ran and jumped. Laughter and shrieks filled the air. The battle raged unchecked for several minutes. Finally the lettuce was used up and lay in limp clumps all over the ground.

Peter bent down and found a handful which he threw at Steve. Steve batted it away and grinned in triumph. Sweating and panting the group stared at each other.

One of the other boys broke the silence, "That was fun."

A chorus of, "yeahs" greeted his statement.

"I'm sweating like a pig," Steve declared. "Let's go take a quick dip before dinner."

"I don't have a bathing suit," Peter said.

"Come anyway," Steve replied. "It's hot and the water will feel nice."

Peter shook his head and so did John. Steve shrugged and the rest of the group including the cook took off through the trees for their swim.

"I wish we could have gone," John said sadly as the group disappeared from sight.

"Well we can't."

"But…"

"No buts. Do you want them to know that we can't swim? Then they'll tease us all the time."

"I guess you're right," John agreed.

"I am right."

"That water would have felt real good though."

"Go take a shower," Peter said with a frown. "It's all we ever get."

*********************************************

By Wednesday Peter and John had forgotten about their silent strike. Having spoken during the lettuce fight it seemed rather pointless to try to continue it. They were mostly cooperating and doing their assigned chores.

Wednesday was blistering hot. One of those August days that takes your breath away with the heat and humidity. Steve called all the boys together in the yard after lunch.

"Since the heat is unbearable we're all heading for the stream in an hour," Steve announced.

There was a round of cheers and applause.

"Can we stay all afternoon?" one boy asked.

"Don't see why not. Cook's bringing a pot and hot dogs. That'll be dinner."

"Yay!" everyone yelled. Everyone except Peter and John.

"Go get your towels and suits," Steve said. "Assemble here in one hour."

The boys scampered off. John looked at Peter as they headed back to the bunkhouse. Neither knew how they were going to get out of this.

When the boys were ready to leave for the stream, John came out of the bunkhouse and walked over to Steve. "Peter's not feeling well," John said. "I'll stay here with him."

"He seemed all right a few minutes ago," Steve replied.

"He's got pains in his stomach. Maybe food poisoning."

"I doubt that," Steve said with a frown. "Bill, take the group to the stream. I'll be down in a few minutes."

Bill nodded and he, the cook and the band of happy boys headed into the woods.

"Let's go check on your brother," Steve said.

"He'll be fine if I stay with him," John said. "You go on and have your swim."

"Not without you two."

"What do you care whether we go or not?" John demanded.

"There's no reason you shouldn't enjoy this place like the other boys."

"We … we hate it here."

"Not half as much as you'd like me to believe," Steve replied.

"What … what do you mean?"

"I saw how much fun you were having during the lettuce fight."

John grinned at the memory. Then his face sobered. "It was fun, but why did you do that. Didn't we waste food?"

"What's a few heads of lettuce when there's a war to be won?" Steve smiled.

John grinned. "I thought you were going to make us eat all that lettuce that we had torn up."

"That would be cruel."

John studied Steve's face and saw only kindness and caring in it. He frowned again. "Peter's not really sick," he said.

"I know."

"You do?"

"You two don't know how to swim, do you?" Steve asked.

"How? How did you know?"

"Let's get Peter and I'll teach you both to swim."

"I don't think he'll let you teach him," John hesitated.

"With your help he might. Get him up and bring him to the stream. I have a call to make."

With Big John's help Steve was able to get each nephew to do a dog paddle and float a little bit in the stream that day. Little John knew he liked his namesake and he only looked up to his uncle even more when the man managed to teach him the rudiments of swimming. Peter let Steve school him in the fine water arts. The cool water was a major incentive for the boys to learn enough to enjoy the water and not drown in the process.

When the group got ready to make their way back to the farm, Peter looked at Steve. "I still hate it here," he said seriously.

"Of course you do," Steve grinned.

Peter scowled at him and walked away with the others. Steve winked at John and followed the merry little band of misfits back to the farm.

Back at the farm all the boys broke up into small groups to do their evening chores.

Tonight it was John's and Peter's assignment to water and feed the small herd of sheep, goats and of course, Daisy, the little donkey that Gus had had the pleasure of riding.

It was a relatively simple task. Turn on the spigot to fill the water trough, add some more hay and grain to the feed trough and roll a new salt lick into the pen. All in all, about 15 minutes worth of work which would earn the nephews and the rest of the boys who completed the day's chores, a special dessert sent over by Claire and some of her church group. The most important instruction the nephews received was to secure the pen for the night. The farm was a crop farm. A herd of sheep and goats could do considerable damage to the crops in a short span of time.

Peter and John argued about who was going to do what. Their 15 minutes was quickly turning into 30 and they were on the verge of missing dessert.

"Hurry up!" yelled John at his brother who was having a difficult time with the old spigot.

"I'm hurrying! Got it," Peter shouted back. He slammed the gate closed then ran to join his brother who was already walking towards the cookhouse.

Thursday morning and another hot steamy August day. John had business in Pittsburgh so it was agreed that Claire would take the drive into the city with John. While John was seeing his new client, Claire was going to visit Sidney Bloom and the gallery. Justin and Jennifer would join Claire there and they would all have lunch together.

The meet with Sidney went well. Claire was shocked at the interest the Kinney paintings produced. With Claire's permission, the Bloom gallery would announce a show of gay artists with the primary focus on Kinney and his work as well as Martha's sketches. Any gay artist could submit a sample of his or her work; the best would be displayed alongside of Kinney's. After the show, Kinney's work would go up for auction, the proceeds to be given to the farm.

Brian joined Claire, Jennifer and Justin for lunch. He had an announcement of his own to proclaim.

"It's too damn hot to work. I rearranged my schedule for tomorrow. If it's okay with you Claire, we can drive you back to the farm and stay the weekend. John called me and said his meetings are running late. I'd love a cool dip in the stream, providing the frog keeps his distance."

The little group laughed. Brian did his best to maintain the scowl on his face but he couldn't and laughed along with them. A little after one, Brian, Justin and Claire were heading back to the farm.

With little traffic on the road, they arrived at the house before four. As Brian and Justin stowed their duffle bags in the treehouse, Claire came running out of the porch.

"Brian! You need to get to the farm now. There was a message from Steve; the boys are missing. If you take the lane toward the cottage you can be there in 5 minutes." Brian just about heard Claire's directions as he went running toward the farm with Justin close at his heels.

"What happened?" Brian asked of Steve as he ran into the yard.

"The boys went missing. At first we didn't know they had gone. It wasn't until we rounded up the sheep and goats that we noticed that they didn't help and they were nowhere to be found. The sheriff's been alerted as well as the state troopers. If they stick to the main roads we'll find them quick. We have several hours before dark."

Panting and very worried, Brian stood unconvinced. "Steve, take it from the top. You said that they were making some progress. Why would they run?"

Steve explained to Brian about last night's chores and the explicit instructions to secure the pen gate. This morning found the sheep and goats loose and many in the cornfield. Only Daisy had enough sense to stay in the pen. It took several hours to get all the sheep and goats back into the pen and to survey the damage. By lunch time everyone, four legged and two, was accounted for except for John and Peter. That's when they initiated the search.

"Where have you looked?" Justin asked.

"We searched all the buildings, and then took some horses to search the fields and the neighboring woods. The sheriff notified the troopers and some of the local crop dusters. They can fly low enough to spot them."

"What's that noise? Is that a crop duster?" Justin looked up toward the sky.

"No, the grain silo is being filled. We don't use much so it should be done soon." Just then the annoying noise stopped. "There, all done," Steve said.

Brian, deep in thought and silently berating himself for putting his nephews in danger, walked a few feet away, his shoulders slumped in defeat. He stopped for a moment then turned toward Steve and Justin.

"The silo!" Brian shouted then took off at full run toward the silo.

Reaching the door before anyone else, Brian pulled it wide open. In the dim light he could just make out two lumps buried chest deep in the grain. The air was thick with grain dust.

"I need help!" Brian shouted out again then plunged into the grain. Reaching Peter first, Brian grabbed the boy and yanked him out of the grain. Steve, Justin and Bill were close behind.

"Move carefully." Bill cautioned. "Grain dust is highly flammable, any spark could ignite it."

Brian gently passed the unconscious boy to Bill who handed him off to Steve. Brian dug in a little more to reach John. Picking up the semi-conscious boy, Brian carried him out of the silo. Justin closed the door and followed the group to the bunkhouse.

Bill called for the local doctor to meet them all at Claire's. They all agreed that the boys would be more comfortable at her house. Getting the boys into Steve's pickup, Bill drove to Claire's.

"Brian, bring them upstairs to the guest room. There's an air-conditioner in that room. We can cool them off slowly while we wait for the doctor."

Brian stayed while the doctor examined the boys and other than a slight case of dehydration and a severe case of the frights, the boys were fine. The prescription was rest, plenty of fluids and when sufficiently recovered, a switch to the behind for being so foolish, scaring the be-jeezus out of everyone and nearly getting themselves killed.

Brian concurred with the rest and fluids but drew the line at the switch. The old doctor nodded then gratefully accepted a glass of iced tea and a plate of cookies from Claire before he left.

That night Brian kept vigil in the guest room.

The next morning John stirred first, cracking open an eye, only to find his Uncle Brian staring back at him with bloodshot eyes.

"W…Where are we?" John stammered.

"You're safe. You're at Claire's house; she's John's mother. How do you feel?"

"Okay, I guess. Peter! Is Peter okay?" John panicked looking at his sleeping brother.

"Yeah, don't worry. We had a doctor check you both out. What's the last thing you remember?"

"After breakfast, there was a lot of shouting. I guess we didn't shut the gate to the sheep pen good enough. They all got out. I thought we were going to be punished, so we hid. Uncle Brian, Peter didn't want to hide, he was going to confess. I made him hide in the silo. I got hot and I felt dizzy. I don't remember much more."

"You were missing for a long time and the silo had more grain put in it. If you weren't found when we..." Brian couldn't continue; the full impact of what might have been hit him. He shuddered then recovered enough to reassure the frightened boy. "It doesn't matter. The two of you are safe. I'll have your clothes brought here. I'll take you home tomorrow."

Before John could answer Brian got up and walked out of the room.

Justin, who had spent the night on the sofa, awoke when he heard Claire in the kitchen and helped her with breakfast. She was about to call Brian and check on the boys, when she saw Brian walk out of the house and keep walking until he reached the maple and the ladder for the treehouse. Instead of climbing up, Brian sat on the step and buried his head in his hands. Justin was about to go out to Brian when Claire stopped him.

"Justin, I'll go. Bill brought the boys' clothes. Why don't you take them up and show the boys where they can shower. Then bring them down for breakfast." Justin hesitated, he felt sure his partner needed him. "Justin, he does need you but right now I think he needs a mother more." Justin looked into Claire's eyes and saw the truth of what she had said. Reluctantly, he took the boys' bags and went upstairs.

In spite of the heat, Claire filled two mugs with strong coffee then went out to Brian.

"Here, I think you need this." Claire said as she handed Brian his mug of life.

"Thanks," Brian responded as he took the offered mug. "I'm going to take them home tomorrow. I should have never brought them here. They could have suffocated in that silo and it would have been all my fault." Brian's guilt was getting the better of him. The Pennsylvania countryside was about to experience a major Brian Kinney queen out.

"Brian, before you do anything too hasty, I suggest you ask Steve and Bill first and then ask your nephews if they want to leave. I know you said two weeks but Steve wanted a chance to meet their mother. He was making the arrangements before the sheep got out."

"Claire, I know you mean well but how can I keep them here. They could have died in there and no one would have known."

"Thanks to you, they didn't die."

"Thanks to me, they would have never been up here in the first place."

"Brian Kinney, I never thought you were a quitter!"

"What the hell are you talking about?"

"How dare you quit on those boys now, just when they need you the most."

"Claire, they don't need me; they hate me. I represent everything that they hate. I'm a fag, and a fag with money."

"Brian, you're a strong, self made man, with a lot of love that you keep buried in your heart. Don't give up on them now. Jennifer and I had a long chat that night we first met. She told me about Justin, the bashing. Don't turn away, hear me out. Jennifer told me how during Justin's recovery he was angry, bitter and he had horrible mood swings. It was your patience, your love that helped him to overcome so much and recover."

"Did she also tell you that if it wasn't for me Justin may have never been bashed in the first place?"

"No, Brian, that's not true. That boy Chris had hate and fear in his heart. He would have done it sooner or later. He just chose that moment. This is the same thing. Your nephews are clouded by fear and hate. Something would have happened to them sooner or later. You saved Justin that night and you saved your nephews yesterday. Everyone knows that, and so will your sister. Everyone, except for you."

Brian gazed into Claire's reassuring eyes. The tears he thought he was fighting back, won. Claire held on to Jack's son as he cried in her arms.

It was some time before Brian was able to go back into the house and face his nephews. He grabbed some clothes to shower first before making any decisions.

Big John and Bobby had made themselves scarce. This was not the time to spring the whole truth on the boys. Justin got them showered and they were all eating breakfast in the kitchen when Claire came in.

"So, I see you two have made a considerable dent in my breakfast. I think it's about time we were formally introduced, don't you? My name is Claire Anderson, John is my son and this is my house. I expect you two to behave. I don't tolerate abusive or foul language, especially from youngsters like yourselves. While you are here you will treat my family with respect. Do I make myself clear?"

Mouths stuffed with buttery biscuits, John and Peter furiously nodded. John looked at Peter with horror in his eyes. It dawned on them that no matter how tough Steve was, Claire would be tougher. Going back to the farm was beginning to look appealing.

Finishing his biscuit and swallowing hard, Peter bravely asked, "Miss Anderson, what's going to happen to us today?"

"Well after breakfast, you two can help me clean up the kitchen. Brian was up for most of the night watching over you two. He was worried sick. If it wasn't for him, well I'd hate to think what would have happened if he didn't have the smarts to figure out where you two were hiding. Justin, maybe you can convince Brian to get some sleep. He can bed down in John's room. You look like you could use some more sleep too."

"I'm all right. I can take the boys to the stream for a while."

"Maybe later. Don't argue with me. Go lay down for an hour. Then you can take the boys."

"Okay. Thanks," Justin answered with a yawn. He left John and Peter to Claire while he went to find Brian and get him to lie down. Brian, too tired and too emotionally spent to argue, followed Justin to John's bedroom and then passed out.

Claire put the boys to work but made sure they didn't overdo and that they drank plenty of fluids to replenish all they lost from the previous day. A couple of hours later a refreshed Brian and Justin found the three busily baking cookies.

Brian stood at the kitchen door shaking his head. Even in the heat, Claire's cool head prevailed. He marveled as the spawn, without a whine or bad language, took Claire's direction. Again Claire worked her miracles. Seeing Brian smiling at the door, Claire suggested that the four go and cool off by the stream while she baked.

This time no one had any objections.

Justin grabbed his bag. He was thinking about Sidney Bloom's art show and thought he would submit a piece. Brian grabbed a small travel chess set in hopes of teaching Justin. Claire packed up several bottles of water, fruit and snacks for them to take. The four set off for the stream.

Finding a shady patch, they dumped their stuff, stripped down to their shorts and splashed at the water's edge to cool off. Justin, anxious to get started on a sketch, got out of the water first so he could get comfortable with his sketch pad. Peter followed and sat beside Justin.

"You can draw?"

"Yes, I can draw and I paint. There's an art show coming up soon, I want to submit a piece. Do you like to draw, Peter?"

Looking around to make sure no one was listening, Peter nodded and whispered, "Yes, I love to draw but I can't do it at home 'cause they think it's stupid. Sometimes I do it at school."

"I don't think drawing is stupid. Brian doesn't either. He can draw a little but his talents lay mostly in creating ads. He's like an artist when he puts an ad together, only he uses words as well as drawings. Would you like to draw something with me? I have another sketch book and more pencils."

The boy beamed and happily began to draw a nearby dandelion with Justin's direction.

Brian got out of the water and sat under a tree to dry off and have a smoke. Seeing his prospective chess partner occupied with a sketch pad, he sighed then set the travel chess set aside for later.

John walked up and plopped down. Spying the chess set, he ventured the question. "Fags know how to play chess?"

"Fags know how to do lots of things. You play?"

"A little, my father tried to teach me, before he left us."

"Set them up."

By the time all the water and snacks were finished, another sketch pad was filled and Brian won several games of chess.

"You played well," Brian complimented his nephew.

"Yeah, but you won every game."

"That's only because you haven't learned the strategies yet. You learn fast; you'll beat the pants off of anyone real soon." John looked at his uncle with clearer eyes. Brian didn't yell at him for what happened yesterday and he took genuine interest in teaching him the game. Maybe John's Uncle Fag wasn't all that bad.

Peter also had a great time. Justin loved to draw and was very enthusiastic about it. Peter felt he could talk to Justin about his love of art. Justin told Peter the story about the artist Kinney. It fascinated Peter that he had a famous ancestor. He wanted to go back to the house so he could see Claire's paintings. He was about to ask Justin if he could go to the art show when Brian and John walked up.

"Going to submit a piece for the art show?"

"I was toying with the idea."

"I think you should. It was your discovery that led to the show, to everything; your work belongs there. Maybe we can bring John and Peter to see their ancestor's paintings," Brian said.

Justin smiled one of his best at Brian, then packed up the sketch pads and pencils. When they got back to the house Steve was there. Steve, Claire, Brian, Justin and the boys sat in the living room to discuss their options.

"Brian, Claire tells me you want to bring the boys home tomorrow and that's within your rights as guardian but I think you may be doing them a disservice if you do. Before you protest, hear me out. I spoke with the boys' mother and suggested she spend some time with one of our counselors. I know what the boys did was foolish but I think they learned a valuable lesson." Steve paused to look at the boys. He saw them nod almost imperceptibly but a nod nonetheless.

"I don't want them in danger," Brian admitted to Steve and to himself.

"They won't be. Boys, would you come back to the farm? Your mother wants to come here this Wednesday. You'll go back with her on Sunday. I think you all will benefit from a few more days on the farm. Besides, you still owe Flossie an apology."

John and Peter looked at the adults waiting for their answer. Both boys were floored that they were being consulted and not told what to do. Peter spoke up first. "Steve, if I do all my chores, could I be allowed to draw?"

"I don't see why not. I think we have some art supplies," Steve answered with a hopeful grin on his face.

"There's an art supply store in town, I can pick up a few things," Justin offered.

"Thank you Justin, that's very generous of you," Steve countered then looked at Peter also expecting a 'thank you.'

Peter blushed but said, "Thank you."

All eyes were on John who sat quietly nibbling on a fingernail. "I guess if Mom is coming up here, we should stay. I don't want her to get mad at us," John said and frowned. It seemed his mother was always angry at them.

"John, I meant what I said. I'll take you home tomorrow if it's what you want," Brian reassured the boys in all sincerity.

"We'll stay," John mumbled, still feeling guilty for all the trouble they caused on the previous day.

"Well, since that's settled, let's eat lunch and then the boys will go back to the farm," Claire stated.

Justin added, "Brian, after lunch, would you come with me to town?"

Brian rolled his eyes, "I guess my credit card is getting another work out." Then he smirked with tongue in cheek. Justin elbowed Brian in the gut as Brian grabbed his boy and started to tickle him. Before an all out tickle war could commence, lunch was called.

"Come on, old man, let's eat. I'm hungry." Justin pulled Brian off the sofa.

"You're always hungry," Brian reiterated and followed Justin to the kitchen to help Claire set the table.

The nephews stood slightly in awe of what they had just witnessed. Brian wasn't angry at the way he was being teased by Justin and he willingly helped Claire without being asked. And if the boys had wanted, they knew Brian would have driven them back to Pittsburgh. Neither of the boys had ever seen Brian this way.

Brian looked up at the overwhelmed boys. Misunderstanding and thinking they weren't feeling well, Brian slowly approached and was prepared to help. "You guys okay? Do you need a nap or something? We can call the doctor."

John shook his head and sat at the table. Peter looked at Brian and said, "No, thank you. We're okay, just um, a little hungry." Peter wasn't able to say that he was beginning to like his Uncle Brian.

"Then let's eat and get going. There are some cows that need attention," Steve proclaimed.

Both boys paused from their lunch to answer, "Yes, sir." Then everyone continued with their meal. Steve gave Brian a little wink.

Chapter 9

The first time Peter and Flossie came face to face since the teat tugging was an interesting spectacle. Peter entered the barn reluctantly and warily. He gradually edged closer to Flossie who must have suspected that something was about to happen. She shifted from foot to foot and mooed mournfully. Her eyes opened very wide and had a frenzied look to them.

"Approach her from the side," Steve said gently.

"She's going to kill me," Peter whispered.

"I won't let that happen," Steve promised.

"She hates me."

"She doesn't hate you. She's afraid because you hurt her."

"I hurt her?" Peter asked with a frown.

"Yes. You yanked her teat very hard and that had to hurt."

"I didn't think it would hurt."

"If I grabbed your nipple and yanked down on it, how would you feel?"

Peter cringed visibly. "But you wouldn't do that, would you?" The boy looked ashen.

"Has somebody hurt you like that?" Steve asked.

"No, not exactly, but my mother always threatens to skin me alive or rip my balls off."

"But she doesn't hurt you?"

Peter stared at Steve. "Not like that," he said slowly.

"But she hurts you other ways?"

"She calls me stupid and says I should never have been born. She threatens to make my father take me away, but we don't even know where he is anymore."

"So you hurt her back by being disobedient and defiant and saying horrible things to her."

"I guess so," Peter said looking at the straw on the floor of the barn.

"And that makes it easy to hurt your brother and your uncle and Flossie."

"I didn't mean to hurt Flossie. She just wouldn't give any milk. I was trying to make her."

"Have you ever heard the expression that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar?" Steve asked.

Peter shook his head. "What does it mean?"

"Let's say that Flossie is ready to be milked like she is now." Peter looked at the full udder wondering if he would ever be able to get Flossie to give her milk. "If you grab her teat and yank and it hurts her, is she likely to give milk willingly?" Peter thought about that for a moment. He shook his head. "When your mother yells at you and calls you stupid, does that make you want to do whatever she is asking?" Again Peter shook his head. "What do you think might convince Flossie to cooperate?"

Peter studied the cow. "If I patted her and told her she was a good cow, she might like that."

"Try it."

Peter slid his hand along Flossie's side. The cow turned her head at the gentle touch and some of the wildness went out of her eyes as Peter continued to rub her side and back.

"See, she likes that just fine," Steve encouraged him.

Peter smiled slightly and rubbed Flossie's nose. The cow raised her head against his hand encouraging him to continue and scratch harder. "She likes that," Peter grinned.

"She likes you," Steve said. "Grab the stool and sit down. Let's see just how cooperative she's prepared to be."

Peter took one teat in his hand and squeezed gently. A ribbon of milk covered his shoe. He giggled at the triumph of finally getting some milk.

"Here's the pail. Don't waste Flossie's bountiful harvest."

Peter looked up at Steve and smiled. Half the time he didn't know what the man was talking about, but he liked the soft, calm way Steve talked. Everything seemed to work out when Steve was around. Peter squeezed the teat gently and was rewarded with more milk that cascaded into the pail. "I can do it," he said triumphantly and Steve smiled. Number one in Steve's bag of life lessons was the value of kindness. Maybe he had just got that across to his young charge.

John and Peter had a peaceful few days. Following their narrow escape from the silo they were much more subdued and cooperative. They did their chores and didn't argue all the time. Occasionally they would revert to their old ways, but a meaningful look from Steve would bring them back into line. They knew they would be leaving the farm before too much longer, and they knew their mother was coming to see them. That caused some trepidation all round. Nobody knew how that was going to unfold.

Big John picked up Claire at her home in Pittsburgh on Wednesday afternoon. He had met with his client earlier and was heading back to the farm. Claire had never met John and didn't know what to expect. When he rang her doorbell, Claire was surprised to say the least.

"I'm John Anderson," the tall man said carefully.

"You're my half-brother," Claire said. Brian had told her about Jack's girlfriend before he came to Pittsburgh. John nodded. "You look a lot like Brian."

"So I'm told. Don't see it myself," John joked. He knew he and Brian could and had been easily taken for brothers, if not twins. "Are you ready to go?"

Claire pulled her overnight case out onto the porch and John took it to place in the back of the Navigator. Claire climbed into the passenger seat and they were off.

By the time they had left Pittsburgh behind the silence inside the vehicle was becoming oppressive. John wasn't sure what to say to the mother of the two holy terrors he had been dealing with for the last couple of weeks. He knew Brian and Claire had a strained relationship at best. How did he talk to this woman?

Claire solved that problem for him. She took a deep breath and asked the question that Brian had skirted with her. "What is your mother like?"

John thought about that for a minute. "You always start with the tough questions first?" he asked with a grin. Claire gave him a pinched smile. "Didn't Brian tell you?"

"Brian tells me no more than he absolutely has to. He'd rather never have to talk to me. I'm surprised he told me who you are."

"You must have a lot of questions then."

"I do. Are you going to answer the one I just asked?"

John smiled to himself. He remembered the first time he had met Brian. He understood how his brother liked to keep things to himself, and yet was so bold at other times. He could imagine Brian blowing Claire's socks off by saying they had a brother and then refusing to tell her anymore about where this brother had come from. That would be just like his little bro'.

"My mother's name is Claire too," John said simply.

"What? Claire? Like mine?"

John nodded. "Your father really loved my mother at one time. I don't know what happened exactly, but neither of them was really happy after that."

"Is your mother bitter and sad?"

"No, why do you ask that?" John frowned.

"You said she wasn't really happy."

"I just meant that she never found anyone to replace Jack. She's always been alone, only the two of us, and Jack's parents for quite a few years."

"And she wasn't bitter?" Claire repeated.

"No, I can't say she was. She's a great mother and a lovely lady."

Claire half snorted before she could stop herself. "I guess all the bitterness and resentment came to Pittsburgh with my father."

John looked over at her but didn't say anything. He thought about bitterness and resentment and how Claire had transferred those feelings to her own boys. They were all fucked up.

Claire rode the rest of the way in silence except for a few non-important, non-committal comments. She was thinking about this other Claire that she was about to meet. She was sure she would hate the perfect mother and lovely lady that John had described. She would be everything that Claire had never had in a mother. She would be everything that Claire had intended to be in a mother and had never achieved. Yes, she would definitely hate this new Claire.

John pulled the SUV up to his spot by the house. He watched Claire look around suspiciously and then take a deep breath as she opened the door of the vehicle and stepped out.

"Is this where my sons are staying?" she asked looking at the house. She thought it was a little grand for a camp. "Where are they?"

"This is my home, not the camp. Mother and I thought you would be more comfortable staying with us than at the farm where your boys are."

"Oh," Claire said feeling funny. She wasn't sure when the last time anyone had actually taken her feelings into consideration was.

"John," the older Claire called from the screen porch, "did you bring your precious cargo?" Claire came out the door of the porch wiping her hands on a towel.

"I brought Claire with me," John replied.

Brian's sister assessed the older woman as she walked towards her. She wasn't at all what she expected. Somehow she thought the woman would show visible signs of being a floozy, a mother of an illegitimate child, an old hag. She should be drunk like Joan or just plain bitter. But John had said she wasn't bitter, and she seemed glad to see Claire. Claire was baffled and she hated the woman more.

The elder Claire held out her hand and said, "Hi, Claire, I'm Claire too, Claire Anderson."

Young Claire extended her hand without thinking. This woman had her name. Finally she licked her dry lips and said, "Hello. You have my name," she added.

"Actually you have mine," Claire smiled. I've had mine quite a bit longer," she laughed.

"Oh, I guess that's true. Did my father name me after you?"

"I don't know, dear, but that is a possibility."

"I … I don't know what to say."

"Then don't say anything. Come inside and we'll get you settled in your room. Dinner will be ready in about a half hour."

When Claire came down the stairs some time later, she stood just back of the doorway to the kitchen and watched the elder Claire preparing dinner. She didn't think Claire was pretty, but for a woman her age she was … attractive. The younger woman wondered what her father had seen in this female, what had made him attracted to her, why her father would have named his daughter after another woman, why she was finding it increasingly difficult to keep her hate level up.

Ms. Anderson, as Claire decided to call her, worked efficiently in the kitchen. She seemed to know exactly what she was doing and was happy doing it. Each task was accomplished effortlessly. Claire thought about her own cooking skills. She hated cooking and only did it when she had to. The boys never seemed to like what she made and that gave her even less incentive to cook. Joan had never taught her anything in the kitchen. Claire had never wanted her to. Everything in her mother's kitchen had been so rigid and unpleasant. Claire always seemed to be in the way. It had been less than a pleasant experience.

"What are you making?" Claire asked stepping into the kitchen.

"My specialty, pot roast."

"It smells good," Claire admitted reluctantly.

"It is good. I usually make it on the weekend because it takes a long time to get the meat really tender."

"I like things that are fast and easy."

The elder Claire raised an eyebrow. "And that don't taste so great."

Claire flinched. How did she know? "Everything I make seems to be tasteless," Claire said for some unknown reason.

"Great taste takes time and care. Actually," the older woman chuckled, "pot roast is one of the easiest things in the world to make."

"It is?"

"You brown the meat and then let it simmer in the pan for hours. You throw in vegetables at the end and everyone thinks you're a genius."

"That's it?"

Claire Anderson smiled. "I add a few secret spices, but I'd be happy to share with you."

"You would? Why?"

"You're family … sort of."

Claire stared at this woman. Like family would make any fucking difference in helping her! "Nobody in my family ever helps me," Claire said with a frown.

"Is that what you think?"

"It's what I know."

"What about Brian bringing the boys here?"

Claire snorted. "I had to practically have a nervous breakdown before he'd help me."

"Did you ever think to ask him before it got to that point?"

"He never helps. He has money which he never shares and a great loft and … he's a fag. Why would he help me?"

"Maybe if you thought more of him, he'd do more for you."

Claire snorted again. "I doubt it."

"Thinking the worst of people often brings out the worst."

"Like you'd know in your perfect house and kitchen with your perfect son."

"You think I've had an easy time of it?" the elder Claire asked in disbelief.

"It's pretty obvious you have."

"Let me set a few things straight, young lady. I was an unwed mother forty years ago. I was a social outcast without two nickels to rub together. I worked hard to support myself and my son. John knows what we had to go through and that made him work hard to be a success … for both of us."

"My kids wouldn't give me the time of day if they didn't have to," Claire said bitterly.

"And do you ever give them 'the time of day' willingly?"

Claire thought about that for a minute. She rarely did anything for the boys willingly. She saw them as a burden on her time and own desires, and certainly as a financial burden, even with the support her worthless ex-husband was forced to pay. But she did love them, she did, as much as she could or as much as they would let her. "Not often," she admitted weakly.

"Claire, this trip is supposed to be a new beginning for you and the boys. They have made progress. Maybe it's time you did too. And … I'd be happy to help with some of my favorite recipes. And in any other way that I can."

"Why are you being so nice to me?"

"Because you are a guest in my home and you're Brian's sister and … you're Jack's daughter."

Claire studied this strange woman who was calm and peaceful and kind. She thought of how Joan would have reacted in a situation like this and shuddered. A little of her hate for Claire slipped away.

John and Steve arrived for dinner. Steve explained how the farm worked and what the boys had been up to. He was truthful about what the boys had done and how they had acted. He described the silo incident and how Brian had saved the boys. Claire started to get angry when she realized no one had informed her of the real danger. Steve calmly explained why and told her about the boys' reaction to his suggestion about calling her. He bluntly told her that the boys feared her and resented the way she treated them.

At one point Claire stormed out of the kitchen onto the screen porch and had a little cry. She wanted to go home where nobody would make her face these truths about herself, but she knew she couldn't do that. After a bit she returned to the kitchen and Steve continued with his slow, easy explanation of how he was handling the boys.

"But I don't know if I can be like that," Claire said with a sigh.

"You and Brian were raised in the same house," the elder Claire said. "He's come to terms with things. I think if he can do it, so can you."

Claire had to smile just a bit. That might be the first time in her adult life that anyone had said she could be as good as Brian. He was always the smart one, the rich one, the successful one. She was the one who had fucked up her life. Strange that this vote of confidence should come from the woman she had come here to hate.

"I'll try," Claire said slowly. "But I'll screw it up."

"No, you won't," John said. "We'll be here to help you."

Claire shook her head at these people. She felt her head swim, and asked to be excused to go lie down. She had a lot to think about before she saw the boys.

Chapter 10

Thursday morning at the farm. The boys dreaded this day. Not only was it a week since the silo incident but John and Peter knew they would finally face their mother. They weren't sure what kind of reaction she would have. And they had no idea what to say to her.

The plan was that Steve would bring the younger Claire to his office after breakfast where she would meet with Bill. The boys had found out that besides being a great rider and farm hand, Bill was a social worker, licensed in the state of Pennsylvania and a family therapist. Talk about looks being deceiving. The boys had thought Bill was just a cowboy.

Bill sat with Claire for hours. He allowed her to scream, cry and generally get out her thirty plus years of frustration. Bill had already heard some of Brian's take on his life growing up with Jack and Joan and now Bill was piecing together Claire's perception of it. Claire knew about the abuse but only a few years older than Brian, she was helpless to protect him and disappointed that Joan stood by and did nothing. She never understood why her father seemed to like her more than Brian. She wasn't very pretty nor was she clever like Brian yet he got hit while she just got screamed at. Her own guilt made her resent her brother and most males that came into her life, including her husband and eventually her sons.

This revelation was very painful to Claire. A mother should not resent her own children. Claire felt ashamed and wailed as Bill offered comfort and reassurance. He assured Claire that she wasn't the first parent who knew nothing of parenting and there were plenty of groups and counselors that could help her and her boys. He told Claire how proud of her he was that she took the time to face her demons and that all was not lost. She promised that she would continue counseling when she got back to Pittsburgh. Claire was tired of the hurt and pain. She wanted a real family not the dysfunctional group of misfits that resided in her house.

Before Claire could chicken out, Bill was on the phone with his counterpart in the city setting up individual counseling sessions for Claire and family sessions with her and the boys. Knowing how important consistency and regimen is in therapy, Bill had a whole timetable set up for her. Bill told Claire that he wouldn't be surprised if Brian attended a few sessions. Although he was dealing with his own hurt and resentment, Brian still needed guidance. Brian, too, was tired of the hurt and pain. For his own sake and for the sake of his son, Brian needed to heal.

Claire let what Bill told her sink in then it dawned on her that Bill mentioned Brian's son. Claire had never seen the boy and didn't know how Gus came to be. She laughed bitterly thinking that history would repeat itself, Brian had to be an awful father. Bill set Claire straight.

"Did you see that huge maple in Claire's front yard?"

"I noticed it."

"Did you see the treehouse in it?"

"Not really, why? What does an old treehouse have to do with anything?"

"That treehouse didn't exist 2 months ago. Brian and John built it together for Gus."

"Brian built a treehouse?" Claire said incredulously.

"Yes, it took them a week but all of the construction was done by Brian and John and their partners. It was a family project. Call it treehouse construction therapy. Your brothers learned a lot about each other and themselves that week. They've become real brothers and friends."

"I don't think I could do anything like that."

"Perhaps not the same thing, besides one treehouse is more than enough. But there are other projects you could do as a family."

"I'm not sure."

"After the summer is over and our boys go home, we prepare the camp and the unused buildings for winter. We use volunteers and some of our former boys come up and donate their time. Claire always helps out and she needs help cooking. Our cook is usually the first to leave camp. You could come up here and help Claire. I'm sure Brian wouldn't mind bringing you and the boys."

"I'll think about it." Claire considered it payment for the time and money the camp spent on her sons. Maybe she'd finally get to know the Brian everyone else knew.

"Bill, you said something about Brian and John having partners."

"You would have to ask them about that." Bill didn't think it was appropriate to discuss Brian's and John's private life without their permission.

"Hmm. Bill, may I see my sons now?" Claire asked hesitantly. She was just as nervous as the boys were.

"Sure, they should be in the barn mucking out the stalls. I'm sure they could use a break. And it'll be lunchtime soon. You can join us in the cookhouse."

Claire almost choked on her own spit at the thought of her city boys handling horse manure but she managed restraint. If her sons could do the chores she should be able to show the proper respect for them. Claire followed Bill out to the barn.

"John, Peter, would you come out. Your mother is here," Bill called into the barn.

The boys put their shovels aside, wiping their hands on the towels hanging on pegs near the door and came out to greet their mother. They hesitated a moment expecting to be screamed at for last week's infractions. Their jaws fell as they saw Claire kneel in the dusty barnyard with her arms held open. The boys ran to her and accepted the strong hug she had for them. Wrinkling her nose, Claire was about to blurt out that the boys smelled like shit. But she caught the warning eye that Bill was giving her and instead she told the boys how proud she was of them and that they smelled like hard working men. The boys giggled, so did Claire and then they all cried.

Giving them their moment, Bill then moved things along. "Boys, finish up in the barn then wash up. You've earned a good lunch and I do believe that Ms. Anderson sent over a batch of her cookies."

The boys looked up at Bill and broke their embrace with their mother. "Yes, sir." The boys said together and ran back into the barn to finish up. Claire's cookies were a very desirable reward.

"How do you do that? I can't get them to clean up their room let alone a barn. They weren't..."

"No, we never use corporal punishment. We guide our boys in making the best decisions and then living with the consequences if they chose not to participate. Your boys have made progress but it would have been better if we had gotten to them earlier. The incident with the silo was a turning point. They may never have changed without that happening and they still need work. You all do. Maybe they can come back next summer."

"Maybe." Claire was astonished at the boy's warm greeting of her but she remained unconvinced that anything would ever make her boys human.

"Let's go, it's time for lunch. The boys will meet us in the cookhouse."

Claire again followed Bill's lead.

In the cookhouse Claire was amazed by the way her boys and all the boys eagerly did their assignments. There was pleasant conversation as the boys helped to prepare lunch. John got out the bread and cutting board and started to cut precise slices for sandwiches. Peter started pouring out the lemonade but asked for help when he realized the pitcher was too heavy for him. All the boys broke out into giggles when Steve brought out the lettuce. Claire raised an eyebrow not understanding the inside joke. "Just a minor incident with salad last week. Nothing to worry about," Steve reassured Claire.

Halfway through lunch Peter worked up enough nerve to talk to his mother about his drawings. "Mom?"

"Yes, Peter."

"After lunch can I show you some stuff that I drew?" Peter mumbled hoping that his mother or the other boys wouldn't laugh at him. One of the older boys spoke up to Peter's astonishment. "He's very good at it."

Peter smiled and then looked back at his mother waiting for her answer.

"I would be very honored if you'd show me your drawings, Peter."

Peter beamed at his mother.

The rest of the afternoon passed quietly. Steve gave Claire the tour of the farm and answered more of her questions about the farm's purpose and the elder Claire's involvement. The younger Claire's respect for the older woman grew as she learned of her struggle to keep the farm going and how she and John worked hard so that John could complete his education. Claire couldn't believe that John stayed loyal to his mother and remained here. Brian took the first chance he had to escape their family but then they didn't have Claire Anderson for a mother. After dinner Steve took Claire back to the main house.

Sitting on the porch, the two Claires took advantage of a cool breeze that wafted past. Sipping iced tea they got to know each other better.

"Bill told me that Brian and John built a treehouse."

"Yes, they did. It's still very light out; would you like me to show you?" The younger Claire nodded.

Claire followed Ms. Anderson over to the base of the maple. She gasped at the intricate and beautifully constructed treehouse.

"My brother helped to build this?"

"Yes he did. My son is an architect. John designed the plans and with his help, he and Brian along with their partners put it together. Let's go up."

The ladies made it to the first level. Claire stood at the railing, looking over the balcony.

"It's beautiful. I can't believe how safe I feel up here."

"I get the impression your brother feels the same way. Nothing can hurt him up here."

Claire nodded; she understood. She knew that Brian often used his height and his loft as a fortress against all the pain he suffered in the past. She could see why he would feel safe up here too.

"Come on, you haven't seen the best part yet." They ascended the steps to the treehouse.

"Oh my god! A fireplace? That had to be Brian's idea."

The elder Claire laughed as she nodded her head. "Oh yes, we all had a laugh at that one. When your brother makes his mind up about something there isn't anything or anyone that can change it. Well, maybe Justin can, but it would take work."

"Is it real?"

"Yes, it runs on gel. But Gus doesn't have access to it unless Brian or Justin is with him."

"And this mural, don't tell me Brian did that?"

"No, that was Justin. He's quite the artist. It was his curiosity that brought all of us together and made this possible."

"It's wonderful. The little boy playing chess with Brian, he looks so much like Brian when he was little. Is that Gus?"

"Yes, it is. John looked a lot like them too when he was little."

"Must be those strong, stubborn Kinney genes." Claire giggled. She never knew that her brother had the patience to be a part of something like this and be a real father. "Ms. Anderson, I never heard the whole story of how you and John were found. Would you tell me? Brian, you know how Brian is. He gives you just enough information that he thinks is necessary then clams up."

"I'd be happy to tell you. It may have a painful beginning but it has the best ending."

The two Claires closed up the treehouse and then took the slide down laughing all the way. The younger Claire couldn't get over how much energy the elder Claire had; she was the total opposite of Joan.

Several hours, a pitcher of iced tea and plate of cookies later, the younger Claire had the whole story of Justin's Sunshine Files, the tale of the treehouse and the mystery of the hidden paintings. Even a certain bullfrog was mentioned which brought on a fit of laughter. That's how John found them, laughing uncontrollably like giddy school girls.

"And what's so funny?"

"Just telling Claire about the frog."

"Have a good laugh now. I spoke with Brian earlier. He and Justin are planning to come up tomorrow along with a certain young man. So get it all out of your system now. You know how sensitive he is. And I think on Saturday half of Liberty Avenue will be camping out here." John announced with the air of authority that he used at his job sites.

"Of course, John. And you know I would never do or say anything to hurt Brian."

"I know mother but you know how he gets." John gave his mother a kiss to her forehead and went into the house for his own glass of iced tea.

"What does John mean about how Brian gets?" the younger Claire asked.

"I believe what John is referring to is what they call 'Queen outs.' I've only been a witness to a couple of them but they are rather spectacular."

"I'm not sure I know what you mean."

"Well, I guess you could call it a hissy fit. Let's just say there's a lot of shouting, cursing, pacing and stomping off. It usually ends by Justin finding Brian and working some magic that only Justin can do. Then all is right with the world again and life as we know it continues. It's rather a fascinating sight to witness." Now Claire had her tongue in her cheek as she said it all with a straight face. The younger Claire got it and again the fit of giggles returned.

John came back out and looked at the silly women and shook his head. Just then Beau made an appearance. "Come on, Beau. Bobby will be home soon and he'll be hungry. Let's go make him dinner and leave these two out here. I better make a new batch of iced tea. I think there's maybe something wrong with this one."

John and Beau went back into the house leaving the Claires to their silliness.

After the ladies calmed down, the younger Claire's curiosity got the better of her. "Ms. Anderson, you've mentioned Justin, is he Brian's partner? I met him once when my son..." Claire looked down at her sandals, ashamed of how she and her son behaved toward her brother.

"It's okay. Brian's gotten past that. Yes, Justin is Brian's partner and a very remarkable young man. He's got his own strong stubborn streak in him."

"He'd have to, to be able to put up with Brian's shit. Oh, I'm sorry, I guess that wasn't very kind of me."

"It's quite all right. You speak the truth. Those two have a very unconventional relationship. And it hasn't been easy for them. They each had their own battles to fight and win before they could call themselves partners. Those two can have some very loud discussions but have no doubt that they love each other. They're both in tune with the other's emotions. Brian is fiercely protective of Justin. I think he'd fight anyone if he thought Justin was in danger. And Justin, he's the keeper of Brian's heart; he would do anything for him. They're so different, and yet they compliment each other. You'll see."

"And who is Bobby?"

"I'll let him answer that." Just then Bobby drove up and got out of his car. He was still putting in long hours at the Honey Bear, preparing to go back for his last year at Penn.

"Good evening Claire," Bobby said, addressing his partner's mother and giving her a kiss to her cheek.

"Hello Bobby, busy night?"

"Not too busy. It will be next weekend though. The Honey Bear does a Labor Day bash. It gets crazy."

"Bobby, I'd like you to meet Claire. She's Brian's sister."

Claire looked up at the handsome redhead and extended her hand. Bobby took her hand to shake it. Claire left it there for a moment. Even in the dim light of their candles Claire could see how appealing the redhead was.

"Hey, baby." John came out the door to greet his partner. Bobby dropped Claire's hand as he was engulfed in John's hug.

Claire couldn't help but murmur, "Why are all the pretty ones gay?" John ushered his tired, hungry partner into the kitchen for a late supper.

"Ms. Anderson, if you don't mind I'm going to go to bed. This has been one hell of a day and I think tomorrow may be more of the same. I'm a little tired and Bill is expecting me bright and early for another session."

"Of course, dear. Have a good night. I'll see to it that you're up in time for Bill."

"Thank you, for everything. Good night." As she was about to go in the door Claire caught a glimpse of Bobby and John in a lip lock. She turned and said, "Um, they look a little busy, would you say good night to them for me?" The elder Claire now very used to her 'boys' being busy nodded her head with a smile and a wink.

Friday morning was very busy for the Anderson family and for the younger Claire. Big John drove Claire to the farm for her session with Bill and then brought the boys' stuff as well as Claire's to the cottage. It was agreed that if the whole gang was going to come up for the weekend that it would be better for Claire and the boys to stay at the cottage Friday and Saturday night. John was a bit nervous regarding the amount of homosexuals that were about to descend upon the farm. Claire and the boys would be in for a real eye opener.

The elder Claire went to the cottage to air it out and stock the refrigerator, then gave it a dusting. When satisfied, she returned home. John, Claire and Bobby went in to town to pick up the additional groceries they would need to make it through the weekend. With that many mouths to feed, they each took their own cars and met up at the store. Brian, being Brian had called ahead to the store and arranged to have a good portion of the bill charged to him. If Claire and John could put up with his crazy family, paying the food bill was the least he could do. Even though John knew he could afford the bill, he also knew Brian's need to pay it. His baby brother was a force to be reckoned with.

After stowing away the groceries, the three spruced up Claire's already neat home and John brought the air mattress and sleeping bags up into the treehouse. He knew that Gus would insist on them sleeping there.

By five in the evening Justin's Cherokee was coming up the drive.

"Breathe, Brian, just breathe. Everything is going to be okay."

"Justin, I can't help it. I don't care about myself but if those brats say one word or do anything to hurt Gus, I'll do what that doctor prescribed," Brian said in an almost sub-vocal tone that the sleeping Gus couldn't hear.

Justin, who rarely saw Brian's true rage, knew that Brian would do what he threatened if he thought Gus was in danger. "Brian, Gus will be fine. We won't leave him alone with your nephews. And tomorrow there will be a whole slew of people to protect him including Lindsay. Now you know she won't let your nephews get within a hundred yards of him if she feels threatened."

"I guess so. Okay, let's get this over with." Brian woke up Gus and helped him out of his car seat. Justin took out the cakes and pies Debbie and Emmett baked in anticipation of the Saturday party.

Brian carried the still groggy Gus into the house. John, hearing the car pull up had come running out to help Justin.

"Hey, big bro."

"Hey, little bro. Hi Gus."

"Hi Uncle John." Gus said to his uncle while peering over his father's shoulder.

"How was the ride up?"

"Quiet, we left before the traffic got heavy." Justin answered giving Claire a hug and a kiss.

Looking around like a nervous cat in a room filled with rocking chairs, Brian asked the question. "Where are they?"

"They're not here. Not yet," Claire answered in a quiet reassuring tone. "Steve will bring them here shortly and they'll stay at the cottage until you leave on Sunday. They need the time to learn how to be a real family and quite frankly I'm not sure if they're ready to handle you and your extended family. Especially Emmett. I adore the sweet boy but he does take some getting used to."

They all laughed at the thought of the homophobic spawn meeting the way out and proud Emmett.

"Let's get dinner started," Claire announced and everyone pitched in to help including Gus.

At 6:30 Steve pulled up and Claire and the boys piled out. Steve decided to accept Claire's invitation for dinner so that he could supervise this first meeting. Steve believed that the boys would behave but he wasn't so sure about Claire and her reaction to Brian. Brian had grown up a lot during the summer, Claire was just starting.

Claire Anderson, et al, were putting the finishing touches to the dinner as Steve and the younger Claire and boys came in. Big John smiled at the boys and received a warm greeting in return. Brian made sure that Gus was protected in Justin's arms before he and little John squared off, staring nervously at each other for a moment like gunfighters of the old west.

Brian loomed over his nephew. "You still a brat?"

"Yeah," Little John said defiantly looking up at his uncle but with a soft smile. "You still a fag?"

Claire gasped and was about to berate her son. Brian stopped her with a look.

"Yeah. And since we're clear on that, let's eat." Brian smirked then reclaimed his son from Justin and sauntered in to the dining room. Everyone let out the breath they were holding and followed Brian and his son.

After everyone at the table had been served Brian took the opportunity to introduce Gus to his Aunt Claire and his cousins. Claire saw the resemblance that Gus had to Brian when he was a child. But instead of the frown that Brian had grown up with, Gus had the sunny expression of a happy child. He politely said hello and candidly engaged in conversation that was put to him. Claire couldn't believe that this child was Brian's son. She expected a miniature version of Brian that included the snarky comments and foul mouth. What she saw was a sweet child who was enjoying his childhood. Claire also marveled at the relationship between Brian and Justin. She couldn't get over that Brian could be so giving, so obviously loving. This was not the Brian Claire had grown up with. She was beginning to see the Brian that the elder Claire had told her about.

Peter had commandeered Justin and they were lost in conversation about the up and coming art show. Justin told Peter that he would ask Claire if the boys could go. It was Peter who noticed the additional party at the table. A certain redhead who remained quietly eating dinner at Big John's side.

"Um, Uncle John, who's that?"

"Peter, how rude of me. I'm sorry, Bobby, I should have introduced you. Peter, John, this is my partner, Bobby."

"Partner? As in business partner?" John ventured hopefully.

"No, John. Bobby is my life partner."

"That means you're a f..."

"I'm gay."

"But you don't look gay, you don't act gay! How can you be a fag?"

"John, apologize to your uncle, now!" Claire screamed.

"No, Claire. He can ask me anything. John, what does gay look like and how am I supposed to act."

"You, you ride a horse like a cowboy and you don't wear pink."

"John, I grew up on a farm. I've been riding horses since I was Gus' age and as for pink, I don't own anything pink and I doubt that Brian does either."

Justin leaned over to Brian and whispered, "What about that tie?"

"Shut up and it's cerise."

"Oh."

"But you didn't say anything," Little John continued.

"John, since when does my sexual orientation concern anyone else but myself, Bobby and possibly my mother. It's no one's business."

"But..."

Gus sensed that the good mood they all were experiencing had significantly changed and he saw his new cousin, John, grow red in the face.

"Daddy, why is John getting red and why is he yelling at Uncle John?"

"Gus, your cousin doesn't understand about Uncle John and Bobby or me and Justin."

"Oh, well that's just silly, Daddy. I understand good. I can explain it to him."

Brian gestured to his son to go ahead and try to explain. He could do no worse than anyone else.

"John, it's very simple. Uncle John loves Bobby and Bobby loves Uncle John. Just like Daddy loves Justin and Justin loves Daddy. And my Mommy still loves Mama even though they don't live together anymore." After his very eloquent explanation, Gus picked up a carrot stick and began to munch.

Big John, Brian and their partners looked at Gus then at each other and shrugged. Then they also picked up carrots and began to crunch on them. Steve looked around the table, shaking his head. "Out of the mouths of babes," he observed.

The elder Claire stifled a laugh and continued to eat her dinner. The spawn feeling out- numbered and out-done by their baby cousin had no choice; they picked up their own carrots and ate. Only the younger Claire sat with her mouth gaping wide.

"Claire, dear, I think you better eat before your dinner gets cold, don't you?"

"Uh, yes ma'am." Claire snapped out of her stupor to pick up her fork.

Dinner continued with little further ado.

When dinner was completed, Claire brought out one of Debbie's apple pies and the vanilla ice cream. No one had any objections and slices of pie with a good helping of ice cream went to everyone. Shortly after dessert was done Steve went back to the farm. They had their own end of season party to prepare for but he promised that he and Bill would see Claire and the boys off on Sunday.

Justin finally got to ask Claire if she would allow the boys to go to the art show featuring Kinney's work. She was surprised that both Peter and John were interested but she made no objections. Justin showed Peter the paintings that were hanging in Claire's hall.

"Hey, Sonny Boy, you want to play a game of chess before bedtime?" Brian asked Gus.

"Sure, Daddy," Gus responded as he got the little travel set they always had with them and plopped down on the living room floor opposite his father. John edged his way closer and sat near Gus. Gus turned to his cousin, "Do you want to help me play? Daddy is really good."

"Sure," John answered.

Throughout their game, Brian kept a straight face as the boys consulted with each other regarding their next move. Brian still won but the three had a great time.

Big John and Bobby were outside having a heated discussion. Or rather it was Bobby who was trying to discuss something with John and it was John getting overheated.

"Bobby, do you have to live there for the whole week?"

"Yes, I do. It's too long of a drive to be going back and forth. I'll come home on the weekends and this is my last year."

"Bobby, I'm going to miss you. I've gotten used to sleeping with you. I don't think I can sleep without you next to me."

Brian heard the anguish in his brother's voice and knew exactly how he felt. He felt the same way when Justin had left him for the fiddler and when he went to LA. Brian never felt more alone than when Justin wasn't there. Brian reached over to Justin who was quietly sketching a portrait of the spawn and lightly touched his arm. Justin put down his pad and moved closer to Brian. Silently, Justin reassured Brian with a gentle caress to Brian's brow, easing the creases that were forming. Neither spoke but their gestures spoke volumes. Brian pulled Justin onto his lap. He loudly sighed then rested his chin on Justin's shoulder. Gus came over and climbed up into Justin's lap and yawned. Justin smiled and Brian nodded, it was time to get Gus settled down for the night.

Brian's sister witnessed the exchange between her brother and this man-child, Brian called his partner. She found it incredible that Justin wielded so much gentle power over Brian. And that Brian had the patience to deal with the young man and the even younger Gus. Brian and Justin got up to take Gus to bed.

Meanwhile, Bobby was able to calm John and they were sitting next to each other on the porch swing. "John, after we settle Gus, do you want me to go with you to bring Claire and the boys to the cottage?"

"No, thank you, Brian. I'll only be a few minutes."

"Okay. Gus, say goodnight to everyone."

"Goodnight," whispered the sleepy Gus.

Brian and Justin took the tired boy to the treehouse. John drove Claire and the boys to the cottage.

Up in the treehouse, the boys prepared for bed. Even though the days were still hot, the nights began to get cool. They were grateful for the warmth of the thick sleeping bags. Brian, happy with the two most important people in the world next to him, fell peacefully asleep.

John dropped off Claire and the boys at the cottage. He showed them around and informed them that breakfast would be around eight if they chose to join them at the main house. Claire would call if they wanted John to come and get them. If not they could come by at anytime. The Liberty Avenue contingent threatened to make their appearance at about one. John bid his sister and his nephews a goodnight.

When John got back to the house, Bobby had already finished helping Claire with the remains of the dishes and had gone to bed. Claire, relishing in the quiet, took advantage of it to work on her knitting. John kissed his mother goodnight. Before he went to the room he shared with Bobby, Claire spoke up.

"John, I am so proud of you. You handled little John's inquisition well." John smiled, proud of his mother too. And of Gus and Brian. This evening could have turned out to be a disaster. But thanks to Gus and Brian's wicked sense of humor, the evening turned out well.

"Goodnight, Mother."

"Goodnight, Jackie."

In their room Bobby was waiting for his partner. He knew that this school year and their separation was going to be rough but it couldn't be helped. Bobby was so close to completing his degree and he already had offers from law firms around Pennsylvania. He knew that John would be supportive, after he got over this little bump.

As soon as he got into the room John lost all his clothes and tackled his partner. Their coupling was passionate and frenzied. Afterwards, the lovers snuggled together.

"Baby, did I hurt you?"

"No, John, you never hurt me."

"I thought I might have been too rough. I know it's stupid but I'm missing you already. It's like I just found you and now you're leaving me."

"Shh. I'm not leaving you and unless I have a big test to cram for, I'll be back here every weekend. I'll be crabby and annoying and ignore you while I work on a paper or something. You'll be happy to see the back of me every Sunday night when I go back to campus."

"I'm happy to see the back of you now." John said as he caressed Bobby's pert bottom, his fingers gently slipping into Bobby's well fucked hole.

"Mmm." Bobby murmured into John's neck as he leaned into the touch. "And you know I love your backside too. Roll over, baby, I want to make love to you."

John rolled on to his belly and let his lover work his own magic.

Chapter 11

Claire and the boys decided to have breakfast at the cottage. Claire felt they should have some time alone. She wanted to see how the boys would be with her when Steve or Bill weren't around to make them behave. She dreaded that they would return to the way they had been, but she had to find out before they left the farm.

Breakfast began well enough with Claire cooking bacon and eggs. It was one of the few things she could easily prepare and that tasted good when she was finished. She wanted to sit down to a meal with her boys and see if they could have a civilized conversation. At home the boys would grab whatever food was going and either take it to their room or eat in front of the television. They rarely sat down to a meal as a family. That was one of the things Claire wanted to change. She remembered seeing an old "Oprah" show about what a difference it made to family dynamics when the family sat down, ate a meal together and actually talked without any interruptions. She had thought that was nuts at the time, but maybe it wasn't such a foolish idea after all.

John finished up making toast and Claire dished up the bacon and eggs. They were actually working as a team. Claire allowed herself a little smile of satisfaction.

"Peter, would you get the pitcher of orange juice out of the fridge?" Claire said sweetly.

Peter went to the fridge and lifted out the heavy pitcher full of the frozen orange juice that Claire had made up earlier. He struggled to carry it to the table and suddenly with a loud crash the pitcher was in several pieces all over the floor. Orange juice splattered all over Claire's slippered feet.

"Shit!" she reacted. "How could you…?" She was about to ask how Peter could be such a fucking stupid asshole. One look at the boy's crestfallen face and eyes full of tears and she bit off her words. She would not ruin this for them all. "Well," she said softening her voice. "I guess we won't be having orange juice for breakfast. I'll stick our plates in the oven to keep them warm while we clean up this mess. Stay still boys until I can pick up the glass."

"I'm so clumsy," Peter said shaking his head. "I ruined everything."

"No you didn't," Claire said picking up the large pieces of glass. "Pitchers and orange juice can be replaced. I shouldn't have asked you to carry such a heavy thing. Next time maybe John will do it or I will. There," she said finding all the glass she could. "John, there's J-cloths under the sink and Peter, get the mop from the porch."

Both boys willingly helped mop up the juice. Claire wrung out the mop and rags in the sink and soon the kitchen was back to normal. She pulled their plates from the oven and gave them each a glass of water. They all sat down to eat.

They munched in silence until Claire said, "So how bad was it at the farm?"

"Bad at first," John admitted. "But it's really an okay place once you get used to it."

"They have cows and horses and goats and a donkey," Peter offered.

"And we learned to swim … a little bit," John said proudly.

"Sounds like you had a good time after all," Claire conceded. She felt slightly jealous that the boys liked it here so well. She had thought they would be happy to go home with her. "Are you ready to go home?" she had to ask.

The boys looked at each other and then nodded their heads vigorously. Claire let out a breath of relief and smiled at her boys. Sometimes they were good kids.

"Mom," John began, "are you trying to change too?"

"What … what do you mean?"

"We're eating together. We never do that."

"And you didn't yell at me when I dropped the pitcher," Peter added.

"I had a long talk with Steve and Bill. They're very smart men," Claire admitted. The boys nodded in agreement. "I'm going to try to improve things for us all. Do you think you can help me?" One of the things Bill had told her was the importance of having each of them own their part in what was happening.

"I'll try," John said. "I hated all that yelling and fighting."

"Me too," Peter added.

"Me three," Claire said with a chuckle. "Maybe we can make this work. I … I like working with you boys in the kitchen. We should try to have at least one meal a day together. We could sit down like this and talk about what's bothering us or what good things happened during the day. Would you like that?"

"I would," John said. Peter nodded his head.

"Then we'll try."

They finished eating their bacon and eggs. Peter went to the fridge and found a jar of jam for their toast. Claire didn't have to tell him to do it, and he didn't drop it on the way back. She even thanked him for getting it when they slathered it on their toast.

"You know that a bunch of Uncle Brian's friends are coming up this afternoon, don't you?" Claire asked hoping to avoid bad feelings later on.

"A bunch of fags," John said.

"Just like Uncle Brian?" Peter asked.

"And like Uncle John," John added.

"Some of them may be like your uncles but they're all different. All people are different. We need to take them at face value and not make judgments based on prejudice." Claire's eyes opened wide. She couldn't believe she had just spouted those words. The boys looked at her and they all burst out laughing.

After a minute John's face got serious and he asked, "Are we laughing at Uncle John? Because I like him, and he taught us to swim."

"And Justin's helping me to draw," Peter said his mouth full of toast and jam.

Claire studied her boys. "I wasn't laughing at anyone. I was laughing at what I said, because I could hardly believe it was me saying those things. I know I've said awful things about Uncle Brian in the past, and about fags in general. Maybe it's time I rethought those ideas. Uncle Brian arranged for you to come here. He's really trying to help us."

"He's teaching me some of his chess techniques," John said.

"Can you boys try to be nice when we meet his friends?"

"I'll be nice," John said. Peter nodded in agreement.

"Maybe you can play with Gus a little bit," Claire suggested.

"He's a smart kid," Peter said. "Did you hear him explain about Uncle Brian and Justin and about Uncle John and Bobby?"

"He seems to think that love makes everything okay," John said.

"And maybe he's right," Claire said touching John's hand in the first affectionate gesture she had made spontaneously in a long time.

John smiled at her and her heart soared with hope for their future.

When breakfast was finished, Claire and the boys washed the dishes then remopped the floor so that all the sticky juice was gone. Claire Anderson had two homes to care for and they were each pristine. Claire had only one small house and she could barely keep up with it. It was only right that she make sure she left the cottage the same way she found it.

It was close to eleven when everything was done to her satisfaction. Claire sat at the table staring at the phone pondering her next move.

"Mom, what's wrong?" John asked truly concerned.

"I know it's silly but I'm afraid to call the main house."

"Afraid of what?" Peter asked.

"Well, for one thing I have to tell Ms. Anderson about the pitcher."

"But Mommy, I broke that."

"Peter, I'm responsible for you and I should have known better."

"Because I'm so stupid and clumsy, right."

"No, because I made the orange juice and I knew how heavy that pitcher was. It was heavy even before I filled it. I should have never asked you to pick it up. And to be really honest I'm afraid of being yelled at too."

"But Mommy, you're a, a mommy! Who would yell at you?"

"Peter, Grandma Joan wasn't always nice to me and Brian when we were growing up. She yelled at us a lot. Even now she yells at us."

"Mom, Ms. Anderson seems like a really nice lady. I don't think she would yell at you."

"You're right, John. I don't think she would either. Well, here goes everything."

Claire dialed the main house and the elder Claire picked up. Claire explained about the accident and that no one was hurt. She apologized and offered to replace the pitcher.

"Don't worry about the pitcher. It wasn't an heirloom, just something I picked up at the discount store. Besides, pitchers can be replaced, not so little boys. Now have you decided to brave the rest of Brian's family? They should be here at about one. John can come by and pick you all up or if you take the lane in front of the cottage you can be here within 10 minutes. Alright then, I hope to see you soon. Bye."

Claire hung up the phone, turned and faced her sons.

"Huh. I feel like I'm living in the Twilight Zone. People can't be that nice."

"What did she say?" both boys asked.

"She said she was glad that no one got hurt and not to worry about the pitcher. Then she wanted to know if we were coming to the party. Do we want to go? We know some of them. I remember Lindsay from Grandpa's funeral and Michael and his mother."

"Is she the drag queen?" John asked, remembering Debbie from the diner and when he got caught lying about his uncle.

"Yeah, she always looked a little strange to me. I never understood why Brian loved her more than anyone else. I guess maybe she's nice like Ms. Anderson. I don't know who else is going to be there. We could stay here."

"But that would be hiding and I'd really like to go. Maybe Uncle Brian would let us stay in the treehouse. Do you think if we're really nice to him and his friends he'd let us stay up there tonight?"

"I don't know, Peter. We've been so awful to each other, I just don't know."

"Mom, if we stay here, we'll never know. And I want to see if Uncle John will take us to the stream again. It was fun. I really do like Uncle John," John said to his mother and Peter.

Claire looked at her boys and made the decision. "So, I guess we're all in agreement. We'll go now and see if we can help Ms. Anderson and everyone get ready for the party. We'll stay but before any of us says something not nice to any of Brian's friends, we're going to stop and think first. If we have to we'll excuse ourselves and come back here. Deal?"

"Deal!" Claire's boys answered back. They all smiled at one another; this was the first real family decision they had ever made together and it felt good. They packed up extra clothes then headed down the lane to the main house.

******************************************************************

When Claire Anderson had hung up the phone, Brian was there to witness her end of the conversation.

"So I take it there was no loss of life at the cottage," Brian snarked.

"Apparently not, just the loss of a pitcher."

"Peter?" Brian smirked. Claire nodded. "At least the child wasn't hurt."

"That's good. So are they coming over or are they going to hide at the cottage all day?"

"I don't think the decision has been made yet."

"Maybe they should stay there," Brian snorted out but then regretted his comment.

"Brian, that wasn't very kind," Claire admonished.

"I know and I'm sorry. I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop, that's all. Claire and I have been angry at each other for most of our lives and I don't even know why. I guess I don't know how to be nice."

"Brian, that's not true. You do know how to be nice. Just try to think first before you open your mouth. You'll be okay. Besides, with all the people coming here today, I doubt if you'll be alone with your sister and your nephews."

Brian started to laugh. He was thinking about how many queers were going to be here.

"What's so funny, Daddy?"

"Just thinking about what's going to happen when Aunt Claire meets Auntie Emm, Sonny Boy."

"Oh." Gus liked his Auntie Emm; he always thought he wore the most colorful clothes.

"Can Justin and I go to the stream?"

"Sure, just stay with Justin."

"I will." Gus gave his Daddy a kiss then ran out of the house to Justin who was waiting just outside the porch. "Come on, Buddy, let's see if we can find another frog." Brian scowled as he overheard Justin and Gus giggling.

Brian, with his hands on his hips, looked skyward and sighed. "Will the gods ever save me from little boys and their obsession with frogs?" Claire stifled another laugh.

Claire and her boys got to the house around 11:30 and the whole family was busy preparing for the gathering. John and Bobby were setting out the long tables. John had decided after the July 4th party that getting the tables would be a good investment. Brian was preparing the grill. Claire was seasoning the meat and preparing the vegetables. The younger Claire could not hide her amazement; the elder Claire had everything so well organized.

"Hi there, I'm so glad you decided to join us. And I could use some help with the salad and we'll need more iced tea and lemonade." The elder Claire gave the younger a greeting hug. The younger Claire stiffened for a moment then gingerly returned the hug. Brian watched and observed his sister's expression.

"Claire, get used to that. Later on there'll be a massive hugfest," Brian remarked then turned his attention to the spawn who were still just inside the door. "And why are you two lurking over there? Come in and say good morning to Ms. Anderson."

The boys came in and said good morning.

"Good morning boys. John and Bobby could use some help with the folding chairs. If you do a good job I'm sure John will take you to the stream for a swim before the gang gets here." Claire saw the boys' faces light up and they raced to help their Uncle John with the chairs.

"I still don't know how you all do that. I've never been able to get them to help me with anything. Until this morning, that is."

"Claire, honey, you're off to a good start. This will work out, I know it will." Brian's sister was almost convinced and very hopeful.

"Brian, who's coming?" Claire asked her brother almost fearing the answer.

"Pull up a chair." Brian replied as he plopped his skinny butt in a chair and started to peel the cucumbers Claire slid in front of him. "It's a long list." The younger Claire sat opposite her brother and started peeling the carrots that appeared in front of her. "First, there's Debbie. You remember her, short woman, red wig, loud mouth and her fiancé, Carl. He's the cop so your brats better behave." Brian ignored the look that the two Claires gave him. He shrugged but before he could continue, his sister jumped in.

"You mean Debbie's going to get married?" Claire asked, astonished at the thought.

"Who knows? She won't do it until Mikey's marriage is officially recognized here."

"I don't understand. Michael, isn't he gay; he got married?"

"Michael and his partner got married in Canada last year. You'll like Ben; he's a lot like John. Very smart, he's a college professor and built like a brick shithouse. That man has some set of muscles." Brian's mind wandered off briefly at a memory then quickly returned. "They also have a son, Hunter; he's almost 17. He's a little street urchin that they saved and then adopted. Let's see, who else? There's Ted and Emmett. Theodore is my accountant. He's very good at it but don't tell him I said that. There are enough swelled heads at my agency already. Then there's Emmett or Auntie Em as Gus calls him. He's just your typical out and proud queen. But don't let his fruity exterior fool you. He grew up down south and he's as tough as nails. Jennifer and Molly are coming too. Jennifer is Justin's mother; smart, pretty and very protective of Justin and his sister. That's Molly, cute kid. Oh and Lindsay, you remember her. Tall blond, she's Gus' mom and my best friend, besides Mikey. That's the lot of them. My crazy family."

Brian let things settle into his sister's brain for a while and the three sat quietly peeling, chopping and slicing.

"Brian, can I ask you something about Gus and Lindsay?"

"Yeah."

"You and Lindsay, did you, I mean, how did, shit. I don't know how to ask."

"Let me do it for you. Lindsay and I met in college and we were very close. We even tried the het life for a while but we knew it wouldn't work. We stayed close friends; we love each other. When she and her partner wanted to start a family I made a donation. Nine months later, Gus. That explain it for you?"

"Yes, it does. And Mom doesn't know."

"Not that I know of, unless Jack told her. He found out shortly before he died."

Claire felt the tears well up in her eyes. Her father was a cruel man but he was the only father she had and he was nice to her sometimes. As bad as Jack was he still was her daddy. She couldn't help the tears that started to fall.

Brian was shocked for a moment. All those tears that Claire had shed during the funeral didn't seem real to Brian, just a show put on by his sister. These tears were real. Brian felt them too. For the first time in his life Brian felt love toward his sister. He got up and went to Claire pulling her up from her chair. Brother and sister hung on to each other.

"I'm sorry, Brian."

"Sorry is bullshit. I hated him at times but I miss the bastard too."

Brother and sister hung on and cried together.

The elder Claire left the kitchen to allow for their privacy. She stood guard at the outer door and redirected her son, Bobby and the boys when they tried to go in to get their bathing suits.

"Mother, what's going on?"

"Shh, just a little brother and sister bonding. Go to the stream, Justin and Gus are already there."

"But we don't have our bathing suits."

"Oh, pooh. You're all boys; you all have the same equipment. Go. They need a little time alone."

John rolled his eyes at his mother then nodded. He led the boys to the stream.

Claire sat on the swing and waited for the all-clear.

Chapter 12

When the convoy of vehicles began arriving, Claire hung back not knowing if she would be accepted or vilified by them. God only knew what Brian had told them about her. She watched from the kitchen window as person after person got out of the vehicles and was hugged and greeted by Brian and Claire. Brian hadn't been kidding when he said there was a hugfest coming. Who would have thought that Brian would be in the forefront of it?

Everyone seemed so happy to be there, to be together. Claire wondered how Brian had found these people. She hadn't found anyone even close to this. Her husband had married her because she was pregnant. It probably would have never happened if she hadn't been. And he had resented her forever after. She closed her eyes and breathed wondering what her life might have been if she had made different choices.

Maybe this was the moment for her to find out. She sucked in her gut and went out the door.

"Hi Sweetie," a gushing and tall young man said to her. She vaguely remembered this was Emmett.

"Hello," Claire replied.

"I met you at your father's funeral. I hope this is going to be more fun." Emmett stopped there thinking how awful that must have sounded. "Don't mind me," he added. "I'm just a silly queen."

Claire's frown relaxed and she smiled and then giggled. "Nice to meet you, Emmett," Claire said extending her hand.

"Thanks, Sweetie," Emmett said giving her hand a little shake.

"I don't think anything could be less fun than my father's funeral, so this has to be a step up."

Emmett laughed. "Stick with me, girl, and I'll make sure you have a good time."

Claire looked horrified. "But aren't you gay. I mean … I'm a woman. You don't want to be hanging around me." Claire stopped, knowing how stupid that all must sound.

"Don't mean we can't have a laugh or two together," Emmett replied. "I like women. They're my best friends."

"Well, Emmett, I have to admit that I'm a little nervous about meeting Brian's … family. It's nice of you to welcome me in."

"We're a fucked up lot, but we look out for each other."

"That's good to know," Claire admitted thinking that she could learn to like Emmett a lot. In fact she already did. A loud redhead approached. Claire remembered Debbie Novotny from a few … incidents with Brian. "Mrs. Novotny," Claire said, "how are you?"

"I'm fuckin' lovely," Debbie said smacking her gum. "Call me Debbie. I think we've met once or twice, but not for a long time. How's your mother?"

"Fine. Same as always."

"That's too bad."

"Yeah," Claire agreed with a snort. "She never changes."

"What about you?"

"I … believe I'm in the process of changing," Claire said with just a bit of pride.

"Then let's celebrate," Debbie said pulling Claire into a hug.

"Everyone's down at the stream having a swim," the elder Claire announced. "Why don't you all head on down there and take a dip. The weather's perfect for that. Leave your stuff in the cars until you come back."

Everyone did some rummaging around in their luggage for swimsuits and Claire hung back watching.

"What's the matter, dear," Claire Anderson asked.

"I don't have a suit. I didn't know there'd be swimming."

"I could lend you a swimsuit. I think we're about the same size."

"I … I don't know how to swim," Claire admitted. "I've always been afraid of the water … afraid of so many things." Claire stared off into space.

"The water's not deep. You don't need to know how to swim. Come up to my bedroom and we'll get you outfitted. I'll even go in with you."

"You will?" Claire stared at this amazing woman. Her giving and kindness seemed to know no bounds.

Within minutes everyone had made their way down to the stream to join Justin, John, Bobby, Gus and the spawn. The younger boys were swimming in their underwear not feeling ready to reveal all. John and Bobby swam naked enjoying the cool water. The two Claire's clad in their swimsuits carried mountains of towels for everyone.

"Hey, Bri, join us for a skinny dip," Bobby called.

"I'm much too modest for that," Brian protested.

Justin swam up to his lover and grabbed Brian's leg tipping him over and making him fall fully clad into the stream. A major water fight ensued with everyone taking sides and splashing for all they were worth. Surprisingly Claire and her sons joined Brian's side and put up a valiant fight before the superior numbers of Justin's side made them call for a ceasefire.

Claire climbed dripping from the stream and her namesake handed her a towel. "That was fun," the young Claire laughed. "It's been a long time since Brian and I were on the same side in anything."

"We made a good team out there," Brian said peeling off his sopping shirt and deciding to keep on his equally soggy shorts. "If Justin didn't have so many minions, we would have won."

"The Kinneys were always the underdogs," Claire stated.

"Not anymore," Brian stated. "I think the Kinneys are doing just fine." He smiled at his sister. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed Brian's cheek. "What was that for?" Brian asked surprised.

"Thanks for saying that and for letting me be on your side today. And for being on mine this last while."

Brian stared at his sister not sure what to say.

"Daddy," Gus called.

Brian turned and was hit with a barrage of water from all the people who had been on Justin's side in the water fight, including his son.

"Cheap shot, Sunshine," Brian said. "Using my son against me. Time to pay." Brian cannonballed himself into the water swamping Justin with the strategic placement of his landing. Justin coughed and sputtered.

"Daddy!" Gus called. He had water in his mouth and eyes and nose and was struggling in the shallow water.

"I got you, Sonny Boy," Brian said reaching for his son and lifting him safely against his chest while the little boy got rid of the excess water. "Are you okay now?"

"Throw me!" Gus ordered having recovered his breath and good humor.

Brian heaved his son out into the middle of the stream where the little guy went under only to pop up with a big grin on his face. He swam towards his father yelling, "Again, again!"

"I am going to be so stiff by the time he tires of this," Brian said to Justin.

"I'll help you work out the kinks later," Justin promised with a wink and a sultry look.

"I'll hold you to that," Brian said as he heaved Gus into the middle of the stream once again.

An hour later every one was cooled off and stomachs were starting to grumble. The elder Claire with the rest of the ladies went back to the house to change and start lunch. John and Brian led the rest back and the sleeping arrangements were all confirmed. Everyone separated so that they could dry off, change and help get the lunch on the table. By three the whole family was sitting at the tables.

John had again arranged the tables in a big square so that everyone could be seen and join in conversation. Little John decided to sit near big John and Peter wanted to sit close to Justin hoping to talk more about drawing. The younger Claire was swept away to sit with Debbie and Jennifer. Both had been filled in by Justin about the farm and the counseling that Claire participated in. Jennifer and Debbie both decided to set good examples for Claire on how acceptance and tolerance was preferable to prejudice. Claire learned a lot that afternoon about the pain that certain young men sitting at the table went through growing up gay.

The atmosphere was relaxed, everyone was enjoying themselves and the spawn were behaving. Nary a snarky comment was said by anyone. And when it was, it was all said in good fun.

For most of the afternoon Claire was awestruck by the variety of people that graced the table. Emmett was obviously gay while Teddy looked like a typical accountant. Other than the fact that they were wearing matching wedding bands Claire couldn't tell that Mikey and Ben were gay. Nor had she know about John until she was told. Claire was equally floored by how Lindsay and Brian were together. In any other setting the two of them and Gus would look like any other family. She couldn't believe that Lindsey was a lesbian. It took all of Claire's resolve not to stare at any of them with her mouth hanging open. She realized how much time she had wasted with her prejudices. And the poor example she set for her sons. She had no close friends of her own, but all of Brian's friends had accepted her with open arms. Claire was determined to learn to set aside any preconceived notions about people in the future.

"Lindsay, has Mr. Bloom set a date for the art show?" Claire Anderson asked.

"Not yet, he's still working on the Kinney paintings but he's shooting for early October before the holidays start. He's already started to advertise for gay artists to submit their work. Justin, will you be submitting any pieces?"

"I'd like to. I did some sketches of the local wildlife while I was staying here. I may submit one of them."

"As long as it isn't that frog, Sunshine, you can submit whatever the hell you want." Brian quipped and everyone barked out a laugh.

"Justin, when you have the chance...oh, excuse me." Lindsay's cell phone began to ring and she recognized Sidney Bloom's private number. "Yes, oh sure, he's right here, hold on. Justin, it's Sidney, he'd like to tell you something."

Lindsey handed her phone over to Justin. Brian raised an eyebrow and Lindsay shook her head. She had no idea what it was about. The whole family quieted while Justin listened to what Sidney was saying.

"Holy fuckin' shit! You're shitting me, right? Oh my god! Can I tell everyone, the whole family is here, I mean it's not a secret is it? Okay, thank you for telling me and yes I would love to see it. Thank you. I'll be there. Bye."

Justin hit end, then handed the phone back to Lindsay and sat back down, his bottom hitting the metal chair with a smack. He stared off then his eyes began to get watery. Debbie and Jennifer were the first to notice.

"Sunshine, you okay?"

"Justin, honey, what is it?"

Brian turned and swung Justin around in his chair. He cupped Justin's chin to look into the boy's eyes.

"Spill."

"That was Mr. Bloom."

"We know that. What did he say to you to start your allergies? Did something happen to the paintings?"

"No, nothing like that. You know how sometimes when they authenticate paintings they x-ray them? Sometimes they find another painting underneath or a different sketch. Good canvas is expensive, so if we make a mistake or change our minds, then we just don't start on a new canvas, we reuse the old one. Lots of times they'll keep the x-ray cause the hidden picture is often prettier than the finished piece." Justin paused to take a breath and wipe away a tear.

"Justin, did they find something bad?" Lindsay asked.

"No, just the opposite. One of the paintings, the self portrait of Kinney sitting with Patrick. It started out as a study of Patrick, a nude, but Kinney must have changed his mind. He made some notes and scribbles on the canvas. Most of it couldn't be read but it did have Patrick's full name. I know Patrick's last name."

"Sunshine, don't keep us all in suspense. What the fuck is Patrick's name!" Debbie shouted.

"Taylor. Patrick Taylor." Justin and Brian stared into each other's eyes. For several moments the family, the front yard, the world did not exist. All that existed was the two of them. The implications of the find overwhelmed them and they needed to find a quiet spot to be alone together. The stunned family watched as the elder Claire found a steak bone. She wrapped it in a towel and then suggested that Brian and Justin go bring it to Beau in the barn. Brian nodded, grabbed the bone in one hand and Justin with the other. The lovers walked off to the barn to present the bone to Beau.

"Un-fucking-believable!" Debbie said loudly.

"That's so beautiful!" Emmett cried, desperately needing a tissue.

"Even in a past life those two belonged together," Teddy observed.

"I think it's sweet," Lindsay said.

"Do you think those two will ever come out of the barn?" Hunter huffed out. "Maybe I should go check on them," he added with a sly grin.

"NO!" Michael, Ben and Debbie yelled back at him.

"Don't worry, they won't be in there for long," Big John said.