COMING HOME
Title: Coming Home
Written By: puddle_jumper2
Timeline: Post ep. 121, AU Season 2
Rating: R
Warnings: Angst, h/c
Summary: “That’s not love, that’s hate and I won’t see Justin raised that way; not anymore…”
Author's Notes: This is AU from 121… Justin awoke with amnesia and doesn’t remember more than just the prom. In fact, he doesn’t remember that his father hates him or that his parents were in the process of divorcing. Brian gave up New York and remained at Justin’s side the entire time he was healing and in physical therapy…
This is written for the H/C challenge. Thanks to my wonderful beta, Vince, who isn’t on LJ (I hope that’s okay) but writes for other fandoms and betas for many readers.
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Brian woke to find himself alone in bed. He sat up quickly and glanced around the darkened loft. Justin was standing in front of the large picture window, his form silhouetted in the moonlight. He was smoking, dressed in boxer shorts and one of Brian’s dress shirts. Brian smiled a little but the smile turned into a worried frown as he slid out of bed and grabbed his sweatpants, sliding them on and walking across the loft to stand behind Justin.
“Another nightmare?” Justin slowly nodded his head as Brian wrapped his arms around him and rested his chin on the top of Justin’s head. “Wanna talk about it?”
“No,” Just whispered softly, finishing off the cigarette and dropping it into the nearby ashtray. “I’m sorry if I woke you.”
“You didn’t wake me, Sunshine,” Brian answered, kissing the top of his head gently. “I woke because I rolled over and you weren’t there. Feel like coming back to bed?”
“Do I have to go see Mom and Dad?” Brian sighed heavily and leaned against the back of the nearby chair and turned Justin around to face him. He pulled Justin closer and rested his hands on either side of Justin’s face.
“Justin, they’re you’re family. They want you with them and I think, maybe, you should try staying there for a while. They were both worried after what happened. Maybe it’d be good for all of you.” Just gave him a bittersweet smile.
“I guess it kind of cramps your style having a brain damaged kid hanging around all the time, huh?” Brian felt the tears stinging his eyes as he pulled Justin closer and kissed him gently.
“I just want what’s best for you, Justin. That’s what loving someone is about. If it doesn’t work out, I will bring you back here. I promise.” Justin nodded and kissed him back.
“Let’s go to bed,” Justin whispered softly. Brian stood and pulled Justin with him back to their bed, pushed him down, undressing him slowly and tenderly. Justin let Brian undress him, his own hands running up and down Brian’s arms and over his shoulders and back. Brian removed the dress shirt and the boxers then reached down and slid off his own sweatpants before moving back up over Justin slowly and tenderly. No one would ever believe it if they were to see this side of Brian Kinney; the side of him that loved Justin without a second thought; the side of him that was tender, passionate and a little bit scared; the side of him that wanted Justin at his side every day for the rest of his life; the side of him that had thought he’d lost Justin forever.
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“Are you coming inside with me, Brian?” Justin asked as they sat inside Brian’s jeep in front of Taylor house.
“Not this time, Justin. Call me later and let me know if you need anything. I want to give you some time alone with them. You’ve been with me ever since leaving the hospital. If something goes wrong or you want to leave and come home, call me, but promise me you’ll try to give it a chance first.”
“Promise,” Justin whispered, blinking back the tears in his eyes. Brian reached across the seat and drew Justin in for a soft kiss. “Love you, Bri,” Justin whispered as he drew back from the kiss. Brian smiled softly at him.
“You too, Sunshine.” Justin slid out of the jeep and walked up to the front door of the house. He frowned at the “For Sale” sign in the front yard but didn’t say anything as Brian pulled away. For a moment, Justin thought he was going to have a full blown panic attack, but the front door opened and he saw his mother and father standing there waiting for him. He swallowed past the lump in his throat and walked towards them.
“Oh Justin, honey, we’re so glad to see you,” Jennifer Taylor said, pulling Justin into her arms and hugging him tightly. “Are you okay? When did they release you from the hospital?” Justin stepped back and frowned slightly.
“You didn’t know I’d been released? They said they talked to you and you told them I was to go home with Brian.” Jennifer blanched a little and looked at Craig whose face was beginning to turn red. She looked back at her son.
“Oh well, it doesn’t matter, honey. All that matters is that you’re home and we’re glad you’re here. Come inside and we’ll get you all settled.” Jennifer turned and walked into the house while Justin looked up at his father.
“Are you happy that I’m home, Dad?” he asked quietly. Craig gave him a short smile and ruffled his blond hair.
“Yeah, Son, I’m glad you’re home.” With that, Craig turned and followed Jennifer into the house. Justin looked back over his shoulder then sighed and followed his parents into the house, closing the door behind him.
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Brian walked into the Liberty Diner looking for all the world like someone had not only kicked his favorite puppy but had probably killed it as well. Debbie spotted him and walked out from behind the counter to meet him.
“I take it you’ve dropped Justin off with his family?” Brian nodded slowly and slid into the booth where Emmett, Ted and Michael were already sitting. “Is he okay? Did he remember anything?” Brian slowly shook his head.
“He’s still having nightmares, about two or three times a week. His physical therapist says his hand is improving but he’ll never have the motor skills he had prior to the bashing. He vaguely remembers enough of who I am to feel safe around me, but I can’t get him to go anywhere alone and he hates being left at the loft. When Jennifer called me, I thought maybe it would do him some good to go home, see if things can be fixed.”
“What’re you going to do if his father…” Michael let the thought die on his lips when he saw the hatred in Brian’s hazel eyes.
“I’ll kill the bastard if he so much as lays a finger on Justin,” Brian said quietly. Debbie nodded slowly then pulled out her tablet and her pen.
“So, what are we having today?” she asked, trying to cheer up the boys.
“Bacon cheeseburger, fries and a milkshake,” Michael started off. Brian gave him a wry look then shook his head and looked up at Debbie.
“Turkey club, fries and coffee,” he said quietly. Debbie smiled and glanced over at Emmett and Ted.
“Salad and tea for me,” Emmett began, “and meatloaf and soda for Teddy.” Debbie grinned and finished writing down their orders before walking away. Everyone’s attention turned back to Brian. “Brian, are you sure this is a good idea? What if they tell you not to come back for him?” Brian gave Emmett a tired smile then reached into his pocket and pulled out an envelope handing it to the younger man.
“Hopefully I can make sure they never have the right to say that to me.” Emmett opened the envelope and pulled out what looked like a legal document. Michael leaned over and studied the paper then looked up at Brian in shock.
“Legal guardianship?” he asked incredulously.
“Brian,” Ted began quietly, “that’s a big responsibility. You have to be able to prove Justin can’t function on his own as an adult and that his parents aren’t suitable guardians for him.” Brian raised a brow slightly.
“Well, let’s see. His father is a racist bastard who tried to kill me once he found out I was fucking his seventeen-year-old son. His mother pushed her injured son into my hands because she didn’t want to have to deal with him at home while trying to raise Molly. And Justin does have brain damage and he isn’t emotionally stable enough to be on his own. According to Mel, I definitely have a case.”
“Especially if you get the right judge,” Emmett offered softly as he handed the envelope back to Brian. “I, for one, hope you win this, Brian. I think Justin would be better off with you than anywhere else right now.” Brian looked at Emmett in surprise then gave him a genuine smile.
“Thanks, Em. I appreciate the support and the vote of confidence.” Debbie brought their plates then and heard the last words spoken by Brian.
“What’s Emmett agreeing with you about?”
“Brian’s filed for legal guardianship of Justin,” Michael so helpfully told his mother as he began pouring ketchup on his fries and burger. Debbie finished setting down the plates then fixed Brian with a serious glare.
“Just make sure you’re doing this for his sake and not your own.” Brian nodded slowly and added four sugars to his coffee.
“It’s for him, Debbie. You have my word.”
“Good enough for me,” she answered, smacking him on the back and walking off behind the counter once more, leaving the boys to their lunch.
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Justin sat on a stool at the kitchen counter while his mother went about putting together dinner for them. His father sat at the table behind him and Molly was somewhere upstairs doing her homework. She’d been happy to see him when she came home from school and had hugged him tightly. Now, he was sitting in the kitchen and while he felt calm, he also felt as if something were off.
“Why didn’t you want me,” he asked to no one in particular. Jennifer stopped her preparations for a moment and Craig seemed to sit straighter in his chair but neither seemed ready to answer that particular question. “I think you didn’t want me because I’m not perfect anymore. I can’t draw; I can’t hold a pen or a pencil. I’m not a genius, if I ever was one to begin with, and I don’t remember anything of my life prior to waking up in that hospital with Brian sitting next to me, holding my hand and telling me he’d never leave my side again.”
“I will not have his name said in this house,” Craig said quietly, but Justin could hear the anger in his voice and turned towards his father.
“Why don’t you like him? From what I understand, he saved my life.”
“It was his fault you got bashed in the first place!” Craig yelled angrily. Justin flinched and Jennifer turned around slowly.
“Craig, please,” she pleaded softly.
“No. Not this time. You were all soft and tolerant before and look what happened to him. Not this time. This time I’m going to make damned sure he’s taken care of; by us, not by that over grown club boy.” Justin slid off his stool.
“Don’t call him that! He’s done everything for me since I woke up! You never came to visit me. Not once! And then you didn’t even want me to come home when they released me. I don’t want to be here but Brian told me I had to come and try to work things out with you both. Well, it seems to me, this isn’t where I belong.” He turned to walk out of the kitchen but Craig jumped out of his chair and beat him to the door.
“You are not leaving this house, Justin.” Justin raised a brow slightly.
“I’m eighteen years old, Dad. You can’t make me stay here.” Jennifer came into the living room and put a hand on Justin’s arm.
“Honey, please, we just want what’s best for you and Brian isn’t a very good example or role model for you. We both think it would be best if you didn’t see him for a while.” Jennifer looked past Justin towards Craig who was still blocking the door.
“I can’t stay here,” Justin said quietly. “I don’t know why, but I just can’t.” Flashes of memories came and went so quickly but for a brief moment, Justin saw himself seated in the living room with his mom, his dad and Brian and then Brian stood up, an angry look on his face.
“That’s not love, that’s hate and I won’t see Justin raised that way…” Then Brian walked past him and asked him if he was coming with him.
“You hate what I am,” Justin whispered softly. “You told him to get out, told me that I had to quit being gay and that I had to go to Dartmouth and Brian told you that wasn’t love, that it was hate and that I didn’t have to live with it.” He looked up at Craig slowly. “I’m leaving.”
“I’ll get a court order against him, Justin,” Craig said threateningly. “I’ll have you proved incompetent in court and you’ll be under my legal care and you won’t be able to ever see him again. I’ll make sure of it.” Justin jerked away from his mother and stepped closer to Craig.
“Try it and I’ll kill you myself you racist bastard.” With that, Justin shoved his father out of his way and walked out of the house, with no idea where he was going to go, only that he had to get away from his parents and away from their hateful way of life.
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Brian awoke to the sound of someone banging on his loft door and groaned softly. He slid out of bed, pulled on his boxers and a t-shirt and walked across the loft to the door. Sliding the door back he was surprised to find a red-eyed Jennifer Taylor waiting for him.
“What happened?” Brian said, stepping back and letting her inside.
“He left. Craig yelled at him and Justin must have remembered something and then he left. Craig said he was going to file a suit to have Justin declared incompetent and then he’d make sure you never saw him again. Is he here?” Brian raised a brow slightly.
“No, he’s not here. You mean he’s gone? How long ago?” Jennifer looked at her watch and winced slightly. “Jennifer, how long!”
“Seven hours ago,” she whispered softly.
“Oh God,” Brian whispered, as he staggered towards his closet. He pulled out jeans and a black t-shirt and slipped on a pair of ankle boots before coming down into the main part of the loft once more. “Go home, Jennifer. I’ll find Justin and then I’m bringing him back here and if Craig thinks he’s going to keep me from him, he’s gone one hell of a fight on his hands.” He ushered Jennifer out of the loft, set the alarm then took off down the stairs to the garage and towards his jeep. As he did so, he pulled out his cell phone and quickly began dialing numbers.
“ ‘Lo?” Came the sleepy voice of Michael.
“Michael, get up and get dressed and get hold of the others. Justin’s father screwed everything up and Justin’s been missing now for a little over seven hours.”
“Oh shit,” Michael said, waking up a little more every moment. “I’ll call Emmett and Ted then I’ll swing by and pick up Ben. He can help us out too.”
“I’ll call Linds and Mel,” Brian said as he pulled out of the garage and into the near empty street. “I’ll also call Daphne. Maybe he remembered how to get to her house.”
“I’ll call you if we find him,” Michael said quietly.
“I’ll do the same.” Brian hung up without saying goodbye. He wished he’d bought Justin a cell phone after he’d been released from the hospital but it hadn’t been a top priority at the time. Now, though, Brian knew that once he found Justin, he was getting the boy a phone and attaching it to him for good.
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Justin wandered along Liberty Avenue but nothing seemed familiar to him. People passed him by, bumping into him, laughing and staring at him but Justin didn’t seem to notice. All he knew was that he had to find Brian. He was cold, he wasn’t wearing a jacket, and he hadn’t eaten since early that morning. As he continued wandering, he was drawn to a club on the corner, the name of which said ‘Babylon’ on the sign. He walked up to the doorman who looked at him for a moment then gave him a grin.
“Hey, Justin! Long time no see, man. Heard you were recovering. It’s great to see you back. Go on in. I’m sure the gang will be here shortly.” Justin smiled up at the man and walked into the club. Apparently he came here often. Walking slowly, he pushed his way through the crowded hall and into the main room itself. The music was loud and the crowds were thick. He could feel a panic attack beginning to form and he pushed his way towards the bar. The bartender looked up and gave him a smile as well.
“If it isn’t the King of Babylon himself. Welcome back, Justin. What can I get ya?” Justin gave him a strange look then pointed to a beer on the shelf behind him. The man smiled and handed it to him. “Lemme know when you want a refill.”
“Thanks,” Justin answered, taking a drink and turning around to watch the guys dancing on the floor. He didn’t remember this place but so far everyone seemed to be remembering him. Several guys passed him, said hello, and a couple even went so far as to kiss him on the cheek. Apparently he was popular.
On the other side of the bar, Emmett and Ted were leaning against the counter, watching the dancers as well when Ted’s phone rang. Ted flipped it open and put it to his ear.
“Michael, where the hell are you? I thought you were coming out tonight.”
“Justin’s missing, Ted. For about seven hours. I’m on my way to pick up Ben. We need to start looking for him. Brian’s going out of his mind with worry.”
“I’ll let Emmett know. We’ll look around here and then head out to the avenue and work our way to the diner. Call you if we find him.” He closed the phone and turned to yell at Emmett. “Justin’s missing. We need to help find him!”
“Oh my gosh,” Emmett said, his hand to his chest. “Let’s get out of here and start looking.” They moved down the walkway walking right past Justin who was hidden behind a dark haired man who was trying to convince Justin to follow him to the back rooms.
Outside, Brian pulled up and parked his jeep in the back alley behind Babylon. He knew it was a long shot, but maybe, just maybe, something had led Justin here…
Justin looked up at the man as the man slid his hand into the top of Justin’s jeans and pulled. Justin came off the stool but he was really beginning to panic.
“I need to find Brian Kinney,” he told the guy that was pulling him away from the bar and through the dancing men.
“Don’t we all,” the man laughed, pushing Justin against a wall as they entered the back room.
“No, you don’t understand,” Justin began as the man slowly started to unbutton Justin’s jeans.
“Oh believe me, I understand,” the man said again as he leaned down and kissed Justin, forcing his tongue into the younger boy’s mouth, his hand sliding into Justin’s jeans, squeezing him tightly. Justin grabbed the man’s arms and tried to push him away but the man only held him more tightly. Justin felt tears in his eyes begin to fall down his face as the man pulled back and turned him, shoving Justin face first into the wall. He yanked Justin’s jeans and boxers down and was just about to start fucking him and he was roughly pulled away from the boy.
“Touch him again and I will rip you apart from one end to the other.” The man looked up to find himself being held by none other than Brian Kinney. Justin sank to the floor, pulling his pants back up as he did so, his body shaking in fear, tears streaming down his face. “Now, get the fuck out of here,” Brian said, shoving the man away from him. He turned and found Justin on the floor, curled up and shaking. He knelt down and brushed a lock of hair from Justin’s face, cursing quietly when Justin flinched.
“Justin, it’s me. It’s okay. We can go home now.” Justin looked up at him and Brian’s heart almost broke into pieces.
“I’m sorry, Brian,” Justin stammered out between sobs. “I didn’t want him, I didn’t mean to make him think I did, I didn’t know…” Brian pulled him into his arms and held him tightly.
“Shh. It’s not your fault. I’m here and it’ll be okay. Let’s get you up and out of here though, okay?” Justin nodded against Brian’s chest and Brian helped him stand. When he turned, he found Emmett, Ted, Michael and Ben standing there, keeping everyone else out for the moment. “I want to get him out of here without causing any more of a scene,” Brian said quietly. Michael nodded and moved past him towards the back door. The others followed behind Brian and Justin as they walked out of Babylon and into the back alley where Brian had left his jeep.
“Justin!” Everyone stopped and turned almost as one at the sound of Craig Taylor’s voice. Brian felt Justin flinch in fear and Ben stepped up to his side, taking Justin’s arm and holding onto him as well. Ben knew Brian’s famous temper and he wanted to make sure he had Justin out of the way if anything happened. “Justin, I called you. Get your ass over here now and let’s go home! You’re mother is worried sick!” Brian glanced at Ben who took Justin then turned back towards Craig.
“Well, isn’t this familiar,” Brian said sarcastically as he moved towards Craig. “Only this time, I’m not on the ground and Justin isn’t a minor. Go home, Taylor, and don’t you ever come near him again or I will have a restraining order filed against you.”
“I’m taking my son with me. I won’t have him corrupted again by you.” Brian raised a brow slightly.
“You want him, you’ll have to go through me to get him,” Brian said with an arrogant grin.
“And me,” Ted said, coming up next to Brian.
“Me too,” Michael added on Brian’s other side.
“You’ll have to come through all of us,” Ben called out from where he and Emmett were standing with Justin.
“Justin, either you come home with me right now or you are dead to your mother and me forever.” Ben felt Justin flinch in his arms and realized just how much he wanted to beat the shit out of that man. No man had a right to talk to his son that way. Brian turned and looked over at Justin.
“Justin, what do you want?” Justin looked up slowly, his blue-eyed gaze meeting Brian’s slowly.
“I want to go home… with you,” he whispered softly. Brian nodded and turned back to Craig.
“You heard him. Now get the fuck out of here.” Craig looked past Brian at Justin then back at Brian.
“This isn’t over yet.” He turned and slowly walked away. Brian sighed heavily and turned, walking back to Justin.
“Come on, Sunshine, let’s get you home.” Justin nodded and let Brian and Ben get him into the jeep. Brian closed the door and looked at his friends. “Thanks,” he said quietly.
“Just keep him safe,” Michael warned softly as he hugged Brian gently. “We’ll be by in a couple of days.” Brian nodded and walked around the jeep to the other side, climbing in next to Justin. He started the jeep, put it in gear and pulled away.
“Do you realize what tonight is?” Emmett said as they watched Brian and Justin drive away.
“What is it?” Ted asked as they all walked from the alley back out onto Liberty Avenue.
“A year ago tonight, Brian met Justin right over there.” Emmett pointed at the light post where Justin had been standing on that fateful night a year ago. “And just like then, he left us here by ourselves and took off with Justin back to his loft.” Michael chuckled softly as Ben took his hand.
“Some things never change.”
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At the loft, Brian and Justin stood under the hot spray of the shower, Brian running the soap and his hands along Justin’s body, Justin’s eyes closed, just savoring the feel of Brian’s touch. Brian leaned down and kissed him gently. Justin gave him a sweet smile as Brian rinsed him off then turned off the water. He pulled Justin out of the shower and wrapped him in a fluffy white towel. Drying himself off, he did the same for Justin, hung up the towels then pulled Justin with him towards the bed.
Justin curled up against Brian, his arm across Brian’s chest, his head resting in the hollow just below his shoulder. Brian’s arm came around and his fingers drew shapes on Justin’s bare shoulder and arm.
“Thank you,” Justin whispered against Brian’s damp skin.
“For what, Sunshine?” Brian asked softly. Justin closed his eyes and breathed in slowly.
“For bringing me home.” Brian kissed him on the top of the head and closed his eyes as well.
“I will always bring you home, Justin. No matter what, I’ll always be there to bring you home.”
~finis~
Written By: puddle_jumper2
Timeline: Post ep. 121, AU Season 2
Rating: R
Warnings: Angst, h/c
Summary: “That’s not love, that’s hate and I won’t see Justin raised that way; not anymore…”
Author's Notes: This is AU from 121… Justin awoke with amnesia and doesn’t remember more than just the prom. In fact, he doesn’t remember that his father hates him or that his parents were in the process of divorcing. Brian gave up New York and remained at Justin’s side the entire time he was healing and in physical therapy…
This is written for the H/C challenge. Thanks to my wonderful beta, Vince, who isn’t on LJ (I hope that’s okay) but writes for other fandoms and betas for many readers.
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Brian woke to find himself alone in bed. He sat up quickly and glanced around the darkened loft. Justin was standing in front of the large picture window, his form silhouetted in the moonlight. He was smoking, dressed in boxer shorts and one of Brian’s dress shirts. Brian smiled a little but the smile turned into a worried frown as he slid out of bed and grabbed his sweatpants, sliding them on and walking across the loft to stand behind Justin.
“Another nightmare?” Justin slowly nodded his head as Brian wrapped his arms around him and rested his chin on the top of Justin’s head. “Wanna talk about it?”
“No,” Just whispered softly, finishing off the cigarette and dropping it into the nearby ashtray. “I’m sorry if I woke you.”
“You didn’t wake me, Sunshine,” Brian answered, kissing the top of his head gently. “I woke because I rolled over and you weren’t there. Feel like coming back to bed?”
“Do I have to go see Mom and Dad?” Brian sighed heavily and leaned against the back of the nearby chair and turned Justin around to face him. He pulled Justin closer and rested his hands on either side of Justin’s face.
“Justin, they’re you’re family. They want you with them and I think, maybe, you should try staying there for a while. They were both worried after what happened. Maybe it’d be good for all of you.” Just gave him a bittersweet smile.
“I guess it kind of cramps your style having a brain damaged kid hanging around all the time, huh?” Brian felt the tears stinging his eyes as he pulled Justin closer and kissed him gently.
“I just want what’s best for you, Justin. That’s what loving someone is about. If it doesn’t work out, I will bring you back here. I promise.” Justin nodded and kissed him back.
“Let’s go to bed,” Justin whispered softly. Brian stood and pulled Justin with him back to their bed, pushed him down, undressing him slowly and tenderly. Justin let Brian undress him, his own hands running up and down Brian’s arms and over his shoulders and back. Brian removed the dress shirt and the boxers then reached down and slid off his own sweatpants before moving back up over Justin slowly and tenderly. No one would ever believe it if they were to see this side of Brian Kinney; the side of him that loved Justin without a second thought; the side of him that was tender, passionate and a little bit scared; the side of him that wanted Justin at his side every day for the rest of his life; the side of him that had thought he’d lost Justin forever.
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“Are you coming inside with me, Brian?” Justin asked as they sat inside Brian’s jeep in front of Taylor house.
“Not this time, Justin. Call me later and let me know if you need anything. I want to give you some time alone with them. You’ve been with me ever since leaving the hospital. If something goes wrong or you want to leave and come home, call me, but promise me you’ll try to give it a chance first.”
“Promise,” Justin whispered, blinking back the tears in his eyes. Brian reached across the seat and drew Justin in for a soft kiss. “Love you, Bri,” Justin whispered as he drew back from the kiss. Brian smiled softly at him.
“You too, Sunshine.” Justin slid out of the jeep and walked up to the front door of the house. He frowned at the “For Sale” sign in the front yard but didn’t say anything as Brian pulled away. For a moment, Justin thought he was going to have a full blown panic attack, but the front door opened and he saw his mother and father standing there waiting for him. He swallowed past the lump in his throat and walked towards them.
“Oh Justin, honey, we’re so glad to see you,” Jennifer Taylor said, pulling Justin into her arms and hugging him tightly. “Are you okay? When did they release you from the hospital?” Justin stepped back and frowned slightly.
“You didn’t know I’d been released? They said they talked to you and you told them I was to go home with Brian.” Jennifer blanched a little and looked at Craig whose face was beginning to turn red. She looked back at her son.
“Oh well, it doesn’t matter, honey. All that matters is that you’re home and we’re glad you’re here. Come inside and we’ll get you all settled.” Jennifer turned and walked into the house while Justin looked up at his father.
“Are you happy that I’m home, Dad?” he asked quietly. Craig gave him a short smile and ruffled his blond hair.
“Yeah, Son, I’m glad you’re home.” With that, Craig turned and followed Jennifer into the house. Justin looked back over his shoulder then sighed and followed his parents into the house, closing the door behind him.
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Brian walked into the Liberty Diner looking for all the world like someone had not only kicked his favorite puppy but had probably killed it as well. Debbie spotted him and walked out from behind the counter to meet him.
“I take it you’ve dropped Justin off with his family?” Brian nodded slowly and slid into the booth where Emmett, Ted and Michael were already sitting. “Is he okay? Did he remember anything?” Brian slowly shook his head.
“He’s still having nightmares, about two or three times a week. His physical therapist says his hand is improving but he’ll never have the motor skills he had prior to the bashing. He vaguely remembers enough of who I am to feel safe around me, but I can’t get him to go anywhere alone and he hates being left at the loft. When Jennifer called me, I thought maybe it would do him some good to go home, see if things can be fixed.”
“What’re you going to do if his father…” Michael let the thought die on his lips when he saw the hatred in Brian’s hazel eyes.
“I’ll kill the bastard if he so much as lays a finger on Justin,” Brian said quietly. Debbie nodded slowly then pulled out her tablet and her pen.
“So, what are we having today?” she asked, trying to cheer up the boys.
“Bacon cheeseburger, fries and a milkshake,” Michael started off. Brian gave him a wry look then shook his head and looked up at Debbie.
“Turkey club, fries and coffee,” he said quietly. Debbie smiled and glanced over at Emmett and Ted.
“Salad and tea for me,” Emmett began, “and meatloaf and soda for Teddy.” Debbie grinned and finished writing down their orders before walking away. Everyone’s attention turned back to Brian. “Brian, are you sure this is a good idea? What if they tell you not to come back for him?” Brian gave Emmett a tired smile then reached into his pocket and pulled out an envelope handing it to the younger man.
“Hopefully I can make sure they never have the right to say that to me.” Emmett opened the envelope and pulled out what looked like a legal document. Michael leaned over and studied the paper then looked up at Brian in shock.
“Legal guardianship?” he asked incredulously.
“Brian,” Ted began quietly, “that’s a big responsibility. You have to be able to prove Justin can’t function on his own as an adult and that his parents aren’t suitable guardians for him.” Brian raised a brow slightly.
“Well, let’s see. His father is a racist bastard who tried to kill me once he found out I was fucking his seventeen-year-old son. His mother pushed her injured son into my hands because she didn’t want to have to deal with him at home while trying to raise Molly. And Justin does have brain damage and he isn’t emotionally stable enough to be on his own. According to Mel, I definitely have a case.”
“Especially if you get the right judge,” Emmett offered softly as he handed the envelope back to Brian. “I, for one, hope you win this, Brian. I think Justin would be better off with you than anywhere else right now.” Brian looked at Emmett in surprise then gave him a genuine smile.
“Thanks, Em. I appreciate the support and the vote of confidence.” Debbie brought their plates then and heard the last words spoken by Brian.
“What’s Emmett agreeing with you about?”
“Brian’s filed for legal guardianship of Justin,” Michael so helpfully told his mother as he began pouring ketchup on his fries and burger. Debbie finished setting down the plates then fixed Brian with a serious glare.
“Just make sure you’re doing this for his sake and not your own.” Brian nodded slowly and added four sugars to his coffee.
“It’s for him, Debbie. You have my word.”
“Good enough for me,” she answered, smacking him on the back and walking off behind the counter once more, leaving the boys to their lunch.
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Justin sat on a stool at the kitchen counter while his mother went about putting together dinner for them. His father sat at the table behind him and Molly was somewhere upstairs doing her homework. She’d been happy to see him when she came home from school and had hugged him tightly. Now, he was sitting in the kitchen and while he felt calm, he also felt as if something were off.
“Why didn’t you want me,” he asked to no one in particular. Jennifer stopped her preparations for a moment and Craig seemed to sit straighter in his chair but neither seemed ready to answer that particular question. “I think you didn’t want me because I’m not perfect anymore. I can’t draw; I can’t hold a pen or a pencil. I’m not a genius, if I ever was one to begin with, and I don’t remember anything of my life prior to waking up in that hospital with Brian sitting next to me, holding my hand and telling me he’d never leave my side again.”
“I will not have his name said in this house,” Craig said quietly, but Justin could hear the anger in his voice and turned towards his father.
“Why don’t you like him? From what I understand, he saved my life.”
“It was his fault you got bashed in the first place!” Craig yelled angrily. Justin flinched and Jennifer turned around slowly.
“Craig, please,” she pleaded softly.
“No. Not this time. You were all soft and tolerant before and look what happened to him. Not this time. This time I’m going to make damned sure he’s taken care of; by us, not by that over grown club boy.” Justin slid off his stool.
“Don’t call him that! He’s done everything for me since I woke up! You never came to visit me. Not once! And then you didn’t even want me to come home when they released me. I don’t want to be here but Brian told me I had to come and try to work things out with you both. Well, it seems to me, this isn’t where I belong.” He turned to walk out of the kitchen but Craig jumped out of his chair and beat him to the door.
“You are not leaving this house, Justin.” Justin raised a brow slightly.
“I’m eighteen years old, Dad. You can’t make me stay here.” Jennifer came into the living room and put a hand on Justin’s arm.
“Honey, please, we just want what’s best for you and Brian isn’t a very good example or role model for you. We both think it would be best if you didn’t see him for a while.” Jennifer looked past Justin towards Craig who was still blocking the door.
“I can’t stay here,” Justin said quietly. “I don’t know why, but I just can’t.” Flashes of memories came and went so quickly but for a brief moment, Justin saw himself seated in the living room with his mom, his dad and Brian and then Brian stood up, an angry look on his face.
“That’s not love, that’s hate and I won’t see Justin raised that way…” Then Brian walked past him and asked him if he was coming with him.
“You hate what I am,” Justin whispered softly. “You told him to get out, told me that I had to quit being gay and that I had to go to Dartmouth and Brian told you that wasn’t love, that it was hate and that I didn’t have to live with it.” He looked up at Craig slowly. “I’m leaving.”
“I’ll get a court order against him, Justin,” Craig said threateningly. “I’ll have you proved incompetent in court and you’ll be under my legal care and you won’t be able to ever see him again. I’ll make sure of it.” Justin jerked away from his mother and stepped closer to Craig.
“Try it and I’ll kill you myself you racist bastard.” With that, Justin shoved his father out of his way and walked out of the house, with no idea where he was going to go, only that he had to get away from his parents and away from their hateful way of life.
*******************************************************************
Brian awoke to the sound of someone banging on his loft door and groaned softly. He slid out of bed, pulled on his boxers and a t-shirt and walked across the loft to the door. Sliding the door back he was surprised to find a red-eyed Jennifer Taylor waiting for him.
“What happened?” Brian said, stepping back and letting her inside.
“He left. Craig yelled at him and Justin must have remembered something and then he left. Craig said he was going to file a suit to have Justin declared incompetent and then he’d make sure you never saw him again. Is he here?” Brian raised a brow slightly.
“No, he’s not here. You mean he’s gone? How long ago?” Jennifer looked at her watch and winced slightly. “Jennifer, how long!”
“Seven hours ago,” she whispered softly.
“Oh God,” Brian whispered, as he staggered towards his closet. He pulled out jeans and a black t-shirt and slipped on a pair of ankle boots before coming down into the main part of the loft once more. “Go home, Jennifer. I’ll find Justin and then I’m bringing him back here and if Craig thinks he’s going to keep me from him, he’s gone one hell of a fight on his hands.” He ushered Jennifer out of the loft, set the alarm then took off down the stairs to the garage and towards his jeep. As he did so, he pulled out his cell phone and quickly began dialing numbers.
“ ‘Lo?” Came the sleepy voice of Michael.
“Michael, get up and get dressed and get hold of the others. Justin’s father screwed everything up and Justin’s been missing now for a little over seven hours.”
“Oh shit,” Michael said, waking up a little more every moment. “I’ll call Emmett and Ted then I’ll swing by and pick up Ben. He can help us out too.”
“I’ll call Linds and Mel,” Brian said as he pulled out of the garage and into the near empty street. “I’ll also call Daphne. Maybe he remembered how to get to her house.”
“I’ll call you if we find him,” Michael said quietly.
“I’ll do the same.” Brian hung up without saying goodbye. He wished he’d bought Justin a cell phone after he’d been released from the hospital but it hadn’t been a top priority at the time. Now, though, Brian knew that once he found Justin, he was getting the boy a phone and attaching it to him for good.
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Justin wandered along Liberty Avenue but nothing seemed familiar to him. People passed him by, bumping into him, laughing and staring at him but Justin didn’t seem to notice. All he knew was that he had to find Brian. He was cold, he wasn’t wearing a jacket, and he hadn’t eaten since early that morning. As he continued wandering, he was drawn to a club on the corner, the name of which said ‘Babylon’ on the sign. He walked up to the doorman who looked at him for a moment then gave him a grin.
“Hey, Justin! Long time no see, man. Heard you were recovering. It’s great to see you back. Go on in. I’m sure the gang will be here shortly.” Justin smiled up at the man and walked into the club. Apparently he came here often. Walking slowly, he pushed his way through the crowded hall and into the main room itself. The music was loud and the crowds were thick. He could feel a panic attack beginning to form and he pushed his way towards the bar. The bartender looked up and gave him a smile as well.
“If it isn’t the King of Babylon himself. Welcome back, Justin. What can I get ya?” Justin gave him a strange look then pointed to a beer on the shelf behind him. The man smiled and handed it to him. “Lemme know when you want a refill.”
“Thanks,” Justin answered, taking a drink and turning around to watch the guys dancing on the floor. He didn’t remember this place but so far everyone seemed to be remembering him. Several guys passed him, said hello, and a couple even went so far as to kiss him on the cheek. Apparently he was popular.
On the other side of the bar, Emmett and Ted were leaning against the counter, watching the dancers as well when Ted’s phone rang. Ted flipped it open and put it to his ear.
“Michael, where the hell are you? I thought you were coming out tonight.”
“Justin’s missing, Ted. For about seven hours. I’m on my way to pick up Ben. We need to start looking for him. Brian’s going out of his mind with worry.”
“I’ll let Emmett know. We’ll look around here and then head out to the avenue and work our way to the diner. Call you if we find him.” He closed the phone and turned to yell at Emmett. “Justin’s missing. We need to help find him!”
“Oh my gosh,” Emmett said, his hand to his chest. “Let’s get out of here and start looking.” They moved down the walkway walking right past Justin who was hidden behind a dark haired man who was trying to convince Justin to follow him to the back rooms.
Outside, Brian pulled up and parked his jeep in the back alley behind Babylon. He knew it was a long shot, but maybe, just maybe, something had led Justin here…
Justin looked up at the man as the man slid his hand into the top of Justin’s jeans and pulled. Justin came off the stool but he was really beginning to panic.
“I need to find Brian Kinney,” he told the guy that was pulling him away from the bar and through the dancing men.
“Don’t we all,” the man laughed, pushing Justin against a wall as they entered the back room.
“No, you don’t understand,” Justin began as the man slowly started to unbutton Justin’s jeans.
“Oh believe me, I understand,” the man said again as he leaned down and kissed Justin, forcing his tongue into the younger boy’s mouth, his hand sliding into Justin’s jeans, squeezing him tightly. Justin grabbed the man’s arms and tried to push him away but the man only held him more tightly. Justin felt tears in his eyes begin to fall down his face as the man pulled back and turned him, shoving Justin face first into the wall. He yanked Justin’s jeans and boxers down and was just about to start fucking him and he was roughly pulled away from the boy.
“Touch him again and I will rip you apart from one end to the other.” The man looked up to find himself being held by none other than Brian Kinney. Justin sank to the floor, pulling his pants back up as he did so, his body shaking in fear, tears streaming down his face. “Now, get the fuck out of here,” Brian said, shoving the man away from him. He turned and found Justin on the floor, curled up and shaking. He knelt down and brushed a lock of hair from Justin’s face, cursing quietly when Justin flinched.
“Justin, it’s me. It’s okay. We can go home now.” Justin looked up at him and Brian’s heart almost broke into pieces.
“I’m sorry, Brian,” Justin stammered out between sobs. “I didn’t want him, I didn’t mean to make him think I did, I didn’t know…” Brian pulled him into his arms and held him tightly.
“Shh. It’s not your fault. I’m here and it’ll be okay. Let’s get you up and out of here though, okay?” Justin nodded against Brian’s chest and Brian helped him stand. When he turned, he found Emmett, Ted, Michael and Ben standing there, keeping everyone else out for the moment. “I want to get him out of here without causing any more of a scene,” Brian said quietly. Michael nodded and moved past him towards the back door. The others followed behind Brian and Justin as they walked out of Babylon and into the back alley where Brian had left his jeep.
“Justin!” Everyone stopped and turned almost as one at the sound of Craig Taylor’s voice. Brian felt Justin flinch in fear and Ben stepped up to his side, taking Justin’s arm and holding onto him as well. Ben knew Brian’s famous temper and he wanted to make sure he had Justin out of the way if anything happened. “Justin, I called you. Get your ass over here now and let’s go home! You’re mother is worried sick!” Brian glanced at Ben who took Justin then turned back towards Craig.
“Well, isn’t this familiar,” Brian said sarcastically as he moved towards Craig. “Only this time, I’m not on the ground and Justin isn’t a minor. Go home, Taylor, and don’t you ever come near him again or I will have a restraining order filed against you.”
“I’m taking my son with me. I won’t have him corrupted again by you.” Brian raised a brow slightly.
“You want him, you’ll have to go through me to get him,” Brian said with an arrogant grin.
“And me,” Ted said, coming up next to Brian.
“Me too,” Michael added on Brian’s other side.
“You’ll have to come through all of us,” Ben called out from where he and Emmett were standing with Justin.
“Justin, either you come home with me right now or you are dead to your mother and me forever.” Ben felt Justin flinch in his arms and realized just how much he wanted to beat the shit out of that man. No man had a right to talk to his son that way. Brian turned and looked over at Justin.
“Justin, what do you want?” Justin looked up slowly, his blue-eyed gaze meeting Brian’s slowly.
“I want to go home… with you,” he whispered softly. Brian nodded and turned back to Craig.
“You heard him. Now get the fuck out of here.” Craig looked past Brian at Justin then back at Brian.
“This isn’t over yet.” He turned and slowly walked away. Brian sighed heavily and turned, walking back to Justin.
“Come on, Sunshine, let’s get you home.” Justin nodded and let Brian and Ben get him into the jeep. Brian closed the door and looked at his friends. “Thanks,” he said quietly.
“Just keep him safe,” Michael warned softly as he hugged Brian gently. “We’ll be by in a couple of days.” Brian nodded and walked around the jeep to the other side, climbing in next to Justin. He started the jeep, put it in gear and pulled away.
“Do you realize what tonight is?” Emmett said as they watched Brian and Justin drive away.
“What is it?” Ted asked as they all walked from the alley back out onto Liberty Avenue.
“A year ago tonight, Brian met Justin right over there.” Emmett pointed at the light post where Justin had been standing on that fateful night a year ago. “And just like then, he left us here by ourselves and took off with Justin back to his loft.” Michael chuckled softly as Ben took his hand.
“Some things never change.”
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At the loft, Brian and Justin stood under the hot spray of the shower, Brian running the soap and his hands along Justin’s body, Justin’s eyes closed, just savoring the feel of Brian’s touch. Brian leaned down and kissed him gently. Justin gave him a sweet smile as Brian rinsed him off then turned off the water. He pulled Justin out of the shower and wrapped him in a fluffy white towel. Drying himself off, he did the same for Justin, hung up the towels then pulled Justin with him towards the bed.
Justin curled up against Brian, his arm across Brian’s chest, his head resting in the hollow just below his shoulder. Brian’s arm came around and his fingers drew shapes on Justin’s bare shoulder and arm.
“Thank you,” Justin whispered against Brian’s damp skin.
“For what, Sunshine?” Brian asked softly. Justin closed his eyes and breathed in slowly.
“For bringing me home.” Brian kissed him on the top of the head and closed his eyes as well.
“I will always bring you home, Justin. No matter what, I’ll always be there to bring you home.”
~finis~