Making it Through Another Summer: Chapter 24
Making it Through the Summer & Making it Through Another Summer
by Kim
Making it Through Another Summer
Chapter 24
Monday, September 13th
9:15 a.m.
Brian's Office
Kinnetik
Brian attempted to suppress a yawn as he entered his office. Shedding his jacket, he was in the process of rolling up his sleeves when Cynthia entered.
"What happened to your arm?" Brian assistant asked as her eyes fell on the series of scratches running up and down his left forearm.
"Don't ask," Brian was in no mood to recount the joys of owning a cat. Only a few hours before, he'd been subjected to hearing Romeo babble incessantly throughout an overseas call to Italo Grazzini.
"Alright, I won't," Cynthia could see her boss was in one of his moods. "However, before I leave you to your work, I thought you might like to know that Pittsburgh Business Quarterly called this morning," she said, referring to the city's most prestigious business journal, which had previously carried a profile on Justin.
"And what do those pretentious bastards want?"
"Due to Kinnetik's recent Atlas nomination, they would like to feature an article about us in their next issue," Cynthia responded. A week earlier, Kinnetik had been nominated for the highly coveted agency of the year award.
"Let Justin handle it. I don't have time for them."
"They specifically requested to speak to you," Cynthia pointed out. "Besides, Justin is out of the office this morning."
"Where is he?"
"I don't know. He mentioned something about having to take care of a personal matter," Cynthia revealed while Brian nodded in response. "Bri?" she suddenly gave her boss a hesitant look.
"What?"
"When are you going to fix things between the two of you?"
"Who says there's anything to fix?" Brian challenged.
"You can't continue on this way. It's obvious you're both..."
"Miserable?" Brian finished.
"Isn't there something you can do?" Cynthia implored.
"He made his choice, Cynthia. It's my job to live with it," Brian stated before turning his attention toward his work.
Meanwhile
PIFA
"Your excellent grades in conjunction with the extra course work you've completed, make you an ideal candidate for December graduation," Justin's advisor, Dr. Brooks, indicated.
"Good to hear," Justin gave a relieved smile. "In addition to expediting my graduation, I was wondering if it would be possible to complete a thesis in place of my two remaining electives?"
"Since a thesis counts for six credit hours which would be equivalent to two electives, I don't foresee it being a problem. That on top of the six credits we will award for your final portfolio will certainly provide you with the remaining credits needed for graduation."
"Excellent," the artist nodded. Both the thesis and the portfolio would allow him the freedom to complete his degree wherever he wished, which was exactly what he had been hoping for when he'd made the appointment to meet with his advisor.
11:00 a.m.
Kinnetik
"Hi sweetie," August greeted Justin as he arrived in the office.
"How's it going this morning?"
"Not too bad. Cynthia dropped by earlier. Apparently Pittsburgh Business Quarterly called and Brian wants you to handle them. It's her understanding that they would like to write a profile on Kinnetik because of the Atlas nomination."
"Lovely," the blond rolled his eyes. The last thing he felt like doing was pretending to the influential publication that things were perfect at Kinnetik.
***
Fifteen minutes later, Brian was reading his e-mail when he looked up to see Justin standing in front of his desk.
"August told me you wanted me to handle Pittsburgh Business Quarterly," the artist began.
"I thought you might like to charm them with your witty repartee," Brian explained, reaching for a stack of documents that required his signature.
"Perhaps they would prefer dealing with the man behind the name," Justin countered. He was visibly annoyed by the fact that Brian was blowing him off.
"Perhaps the man behind the name isn't interested in the pompous publication," Brian argued, before stretching his left arm.
"Some trick," Justin offered with sarcasm as his eyes fell on the scratches marring Brian's arm.
"Romeo was rather ferocious last night," Brian gave a casual shrug.
"Since when do you remember names?"
"Is there a problem, Sunshine?"
Annoyed as he was with Brian's attitude Justin replied, "Of course not."
"Are you sure about that?" Brian couldn't help but wonder if his ex might be jealous.
"Look, are you going to handle the fucking magazine or not?"
"How about we handle it together?"
"You've got to be kidding me," Justin shook his head in disbelief.
"Don't think for a second I'm going to let you weasel your way out of it, Sunshine," Brian warned. "Speaking of weaseling, where the hell were you this morning?"
"Since when is it my responsibility to report my every move to you?"
"It's not, but I would appreciate some common courtesy every now and again."
"Right," Justin rolled his eyes. "On that note I think I'll be heading back to my office."
"Later," Brian murmured as he watched the blond leave. It was difficult not to wonder where Justin had been earlier, especially since his ex was looking more tired and strained as the days passed. As concerned as he was, Brian believed there was little he could do to help.
Tuesday
7:15 p.m.
The Loft
"I think Romeo likes the new mouse we got him, Daddy," Gus called out to Brian who was sitting at his computer.
"I'm sure he does, Sonny Boy," Brian smiled back. Earlier he had picked Gus up and had taken him to the pet store before bringing him back to the loft to play with Romeo. He had a feeling Romeo was more interested in the catnip that was inside the toy mouse than the mouse itself. Brian's train of thought was interrupted by the sound of the telephone.
***
"Hello?"
"Hi Brian, it's Jenn," Justin's mother greeted him warmly.
"Uh... hi," Brian attempted to mask the surprise from his voice.
"I realize this is short notice, but Royce and I were wondering if you might like to come over for dinner tomorrow evening," she invited.
"I'm not sure that's a good idea, Jennifer."
"Royce and I insist, Brian. The weather's still nice and Royce is planning to barbecue steaks out by the pool. Besides, you still haven't heard the details of our wedding," she commented, hoping she could convince him to agree. The real truth behind the invitation was that she and Royce were worried about Justin, and that they secretly hoped the couple would reconcile.
"Alright," Brian begrudgingly agreed. Accepting the invitation was the least he could do after the support they had lent him over the past several weeks.
An Hour Later
"Daddy?" Gus turned to look seriously at his father as they sat on the sofa petting Romeo.
"Yes, Sonny Boy?"
"Where's Jus?" Gus questioned with childlike innocence as Brian felt his insides clench with pain. He'd known this question was coming and had been hoping to avoid it.
"I'm afraid Justin no longer lives here, Gus."
"Where did he go?"
"He went to live with his mom," Brian explained.
"Why, Daddy?" Gus asked in a confused voice.
"I'm afraid he no longer loves your daddy," Brian revealed.
"Is it because of the thing you did to make him mad?" the boy inquired, remembering the reason why he had helped Brian purchase the Build a Bear.
"That's part of it," Brian confirmed grimly.
"Daddy, if Jus no longer loves you does that mean he no longer loves me?"
"Of course not," Brian set Romeo aside to lift his son onto his lap. "Listen to me, Sonny Boy. Are you listening?" he waited for Gus to nod in response. "I promise that no matter what happens or how Justin feels about me he will always love you. Got it?"
"Uh-huh," the child nodded solemnly. "Daddy?"
"Yes, Gus?"
"Just because Jus no longer loves you, doesn't mean I'll stop loving you," Gus promised before reaching up and wrapping his arms around Brian's neck.
"Thank you, Sonny Boy," Brian whispered in a voice filled with emotion. Words could not even begin to express how grateful he was to have the boy in his life.
Wednesday
6:30 p.m.
Royce & Jennifer's
After stopping at the loft to change into a pair of jeans and long-sleeved Juicy Couture T-shirt, Brian was now pulling his BMW into Royce and Jennifer's driveway. Steering the car closer to the house, he was momentarily taken aback by the sheer size of it. While he'd had a hunch that the house was impressive based on the fact that it was located in Fox Chapel, one of Pittsburgh's more exclusive suburbs, he hadn't anticipated it to be as grand as it appeared. Shaking his head in amusement, he made a mental note to bring the BMW in the future. He had no intention of being viewed as the "poor" relation.
***
"Brian, good to see you," Royce greeted, shaking the younger man's hand. "I'm glad you could make it," he said before leading him out to the patio.
"Nice house," Brian smirked as he surveyed his surroundings.
"It's a bit much isn't it?" Royce joked. "I only purchased it for its investment value."
"Craig must be pissed."
"Serves the asshole right," the attorney laughed. He felt no love towards Jennifer's ex-husband.
***
Half an hour later, Brian was sitting on the patio enjoying a beer while catching up with Royce and Jennifer. He was beginning to wonder if Justin was going to make an appearance when he turned his head to see the blond walk barefoot out onto the patio dressed in khaki colored cargo shorts and a black t-shirt.
"What the fuck are you doing here?" Justin stared at Brian. The last person he expected to see was his ex, especially since he hadn't mentioned anything at the office earlier.
"Justin, that's no way to greet our guest," Jennifer admonished.
"To answer your question, your mother and Royce invited me for dinner."
"They did?" Justin sent an angered look in Jennifer's direction.
"That's right, we did," Jennifer confirmed. "Now dinner's almost ready. Why don't you go inside and bring out the salad I left in the refrigerator?"
"Yes, Mother," Justin rolled his eyes before turning to reenter the house.
"That went well," Brian sardonically remarked as he watched the blond walk inside.
"Give him time, he'll come around," Jennifer assured as she reached across the table and gave Brian's hand a supportive squeeze.
"I don't know, Jenn. It's been almost a month," Brian sighed. He had little expectation of ever reconciling with Justin.
***
"Did you see the beautiful Grazzini vase Brian gave us for a wedding gift, honey?" Jennifer asked her son over dinner.
"No," Justin shook his head as he tried to concentrate on cutting another piece of steak.
"I put it in the dining room. You'll have to look at it later."
"Speaking of the wedding, why don't you tell Brian about it?" Royce invited.
"You wouldn't believe how romantic it was," Jennifer's face lit up with a dreamy smile. "Royce arranged for us to be married at the Four Seasons Resort at Jimbaran Bay. We were married right on the beach and then celebrated by sharing an intimate dinner in their gazebo overlooking the bay," she said as Brian politely pretended to listen. His real attention was focused on Justin who was too busy picking at his food to notice him staring.
***
"Would you like a cigar, Brian?" Royce offered after dinner.
"I'm afraid I'm going to have to decline," Brian said as he looked anxiously at his watch. While he wouldn't mind staying and chatting with the attorney he was afraid to leave Romeo by himself for much longer. Unfortunately, Brian had learned the hard way that his Siamese became a bit temperamental when he was left alone for hours on end. "Romeo is waiting for me back at the loft."
"Oh," Jennifer and Royce exchanged surprised glances while Justin attempted to keep his mouth from dropping open in shock.
"However, I appreciate the invitation to dinner. I enjoyed both the company and the steaks," he complimented before standing up to leave.
***
"Uh, Justin?" Jennifer gave her son an uneasy look once Brian had departed.
"What?" the blond muttered.
"Who's Romeo?"
"Beats me," Justin shrugged as he stood up from the table. "Why don't you ask Brian since you're so chummy with him now," he snapped as he headed toward the French doors that led inside.
"Justin," Jennifer objected. "I was only trying to help. I thought inviting him over to dinner would do you both some good."
"Obviously you thought wrong. If you want to do me any favors, stay out of my private life," Justin requested tersely before storming into the house, furious with his mother's blatant interference.
9:30 p.m.
The Loft
"O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?" Brian called out as he entered the loft.
"The little fur ball must be hiding somewhere," he frowned after scanning his immediate area and proceeding into the kitchen for a bottle of water.
"Ahh rah raaaaaaaaaaaaahhhrrr!"
"What the fuck?" Suddenly Brian's attention was drawn to living room, where Romeo was standing atop his sacred Mies van der Rohe coffee table.
"Listen to me you little fur ball," Brian commanded as he stormed over to the cat. "If you have any hope of surviving the next five minutes you'll get the fuck off that table now," he ordered in a stern tone.
"Now!" Brian yelled, causing the cat to jump from the table in fear, leaving scratch marks in his wake.
***
"I don't fucking believe this!" Furious, Brian stared down at his coffee table. One of his favorite pieces of furniture now had two ugly scratches running across its center. "Of all the fucking things in this loft you had to ruin this," he glared at Romeo, who stared back at him with pathetic eyes.
"Don't you dare make me feel sorry for you," Brian warned. "I've had it up to here when it comes to your antics. You better shape up, you little fucker, or else I'm siccing Juliet on you," he threatened before stalking into the bedroom. He'd had more than his fill when it came to the cat.
Meanwhile
Royce & Jennifer's
Standing out by the pool with a cigarette in hand, Justin's thoughts were on Brian. It was difficult to comprehend that his ex had already moved on and replaced him. Nevertheless, it was the only logical explanation for Romeo's presence in Brian's life. Knowing that he was easily replaceable left Justin feeling bitter. After everything Brian had meant to him, this was yet another sign that he had meant little to the man in return. It was more and more apparent that there was less of a reason for him to remain in Pittsburgh. After all, what was left for him?
Thursday, September 16th
7:30 p.m.
Lindsay & Melanie's
"Jus?" Gus looked up from the picture he was drawing to stare at the blond.
"Yes?" Justin had agreed to baby-sit Gus since Brian was tied up at a client dinner and Lindsay and Melanie had an important board meeting at the Gay and Lesbian Center.
"Why don't you love my Daddy anymore?"
"Where did you get that idea?"
"Daddy told me."
"H-he did?"
"He said that's why you don't live with him anymore," Gus explained in a sad voice.
"I see," Justin coughed. He was astonished by the fact that Brian had confided this to his son.
"Daddy said he's sorry for what he did, Jus."
"I know he is," the blond nodded grimly.
"Then why won't you forgive him?"
"I don't know if I can," Justin admitted.
"Mamma and Mommy always forgive me."
"I know they do, Gus. Believe me, if I could forgive your father I would. Unfortunately, it's not that easy."
"I wish it were. At least he still has Romeo and me. We love him."
"I know you do," Justin ruffled the boy's hair. "Gus, who's Romeo?" he unexpectedly found himself asking. Although he was desperately afraid of the answer, Justin let his curiosity get the better of him.
"He's my cat," the boy's face lit up with a wide smile.
"Y-your cat?" Justin's mouth dropped open. "But I thought your Mamma was allergic to them?"
"She is. That's why Romeo lives with Daddy. He gave Romeo to me for my birthday."
"Unbelievable," Justin shook his head in amazement. To say that he was flabbergasted by Romeo's identity would definitely have been an understatement. Just the idea of Brian owning a cat was more than his feeble mind could even begin to comprehend.
Friday
8:30 a.m.
The Gym
"You should have heard Brian on the phone yesterday. He's absolutely furious with Romeo right now," Michael commented as he threw a medicine ball back and forth with Emmett.
"What did he do?" Justin inquired before setting his towel down and joining the pair. He decided it best to act as if he hadn't only recently learned of the cat's identity.
"He ruined Brian's sacred Mies van der Rohe table."
"Oh my God," Emmett's mouth gaped open. "The poor cat must be dead by now."
"If you ask me, he's lucky to still be alive."
"No shit. Brian is obsessed with that table," Justin added. "Although he seemed reasonably calm at Kinnetik yesterday."
"Believe me, he's pissed. If it weren't for the fact that he has a soft spot for Romeo, the cat would have been gone weeks ago."
"I still can't fathom him as a cat owner," Emmett commented.
"I couldn't either until I saw them together," Michael interjected. "I think he may actually love Romeo."
"The only thing Brian loves is fucking," Emmett declared.
"Maybe he's changed," Michael offered as Justin found himself wondering if there may be some truth to his friend's words.
Noon
The Liberty Diner
"Well if it isn't the happy honeymooners," Brian greeted Michael and Ben before joining them in their booth.
"Hey, Brian," Michael welcomed his friend.
"I take it you're joining us for lunch?" Ben surmised. While he was still uncertain if the recent changes in Brian's demeanor would have a lasting effect, Ben was relieved that he and Michael had reconciled their friendship. For his husband's sake, Ben was willing to put his feelings aside and give Brian another chance.
"Why else would I be wasting my time sitting here?" Brian drawled with his usual sarcasm.
"So, how's Romeo?" Michael grinned, dying to know the cat's fate.
"You'll be happy to know the little fur ball is still in one piece. However, I made it quite clear that if he even so much as thinks about ruining another piece of furniture I'll be sure to introduce him to a Juliet."
"Nice," Ben rolled his eyes at the same moment as Bonbois entered the diner with his friends Etienne and Jacques in tow.
"Isn't that your obnoxious neighbor?" Michael asked.
"Yep," Brian confirmed.
"He must be riding high on his recent victory. Team Canada won the World Cup the other night. I heard Bonbois played phenomenally in the series."
"He certainly seems pleased with himself," Brian murmured as he observed Cody approach the hockey player's booth.
***
"Now that's a nice piece of ass," Jacques complimented in French, while Cody busied himself with taking their orders.
"I bet you wouldn't mind sating yourself in a twink like that," Etienne laughed, continuing the conversation in their native tongue.
"Have you had him?" Jacques turned to Bonbois while Cody moved on to the next table.
"Of course he has," Etienne interjected. "Do you honestly think Jean Philippe would pass up a nice piece of boy ass like that?"
"True," Jacques conceded. "So, is he any good?"
"He's not worth your time," Bonbois lied as he attempted to keep his eyes from lingering on the tempting brunet who was taking orders nearby. "I can honestly say I've had better."
"How disappointing," Jacques sighed. "I suppose I'll have to rely on you for recommendations tonight at Babylon."
***
"You seem awfully interested in Bonbois' table," Ben observed. Brian had been studying his neighbor with an intent expression on his face for several minutes.
"You imagine things," Brian dismissed the professor's notion.
"W-what the?" Michael suddenly turned his attention toward the hockey player's table at the exact same instant Cody started yelling at the man in rapid French.
"Now this is an unexpected twist," Brian murmured as he watched the furious waiter dump an entire pitcher of water over Bonbois' lap before turning to storm into the kitchen.
"Excuse me for a moment, gentlemen," Brian stood up from the table and decided it was in his best interests to find out what was happening between Cody and Bonbois.
"Where the fuck is he going?" Michael wondered as both he and Ben, along with Bonbois watched Brian proceed in the direction of the kitchen.
***
"What do you want?" Cody grumbled as he stood outside the diner's backdoor with a cigarette.
"Since when do you speak French?" Brian decided to forgo any niceties and get directly to the matter at hand.
"Gee, maybe because I'm a French major at Pitt," the waiter responded sarcastically.
"I take it you're fluent."
"I've only been studying the language for the past six years."
"I see," Brian nodded as he considered how he could use this new information to his advantage. He wasn't about to stop interfering until he reaped his ultimate revenge.
"Look, I answered your question so why don't you just go," Cody invited.
"Not until you tell me what happened inside."
"It doesn't matter."
"That's for me to decide. Now why don't you both do us a favor and start talking."
"Fine," Cody sighed. "I guess you could say I overheard his friends discussing me in French. Apparently one of his friends thinks I have a nice ass and wanted to know if I was any good."
"Let me guess, Bonbois answered that he'd had better."
"How did you guess?" Cody looked up at Brian with surprised eyes.
"I know your Frenchman better than you think."
"I thought I told you he was...."
"I know, Quebecois," Brian rolled his eyes. "Getting back to the little incident that occurred, I imagine it's safe to say that you didn't appreciate being insulted and decided to do a little insulting of your own?"
"Something like that," Cody grimaced.
"I think he got the message."
"I don't give a fuck whether he did or not. I'm wasting my time with an asshole like him. He'll never allow himself to love a twink like me."
"Never say never," Brian advised. "Stranger things have happened."
"Yeah right."
"So, are you up for Babylon tonight?" Brian inquired, abruptly changing the subject.
"Why do you ask?"
"I think it's time we put those French skills of yours to use," Brian announced with a smirk. Soon he would have Bonbois exactly where he wanted him.
3:00 p.m.
Brian's Office
Kinnetik
"Brian?" Brian looked up from his desk to see Justin standing in his doorway.
"Yeah?"
"Do you have a sec?"
"Sure, why not?" Brian shrugged before motioning for Justin to take a seat in one of the chairs in front of his desk.
"Ann Westhampton and Ted came to see me this afternoon with a request from our employee action committee."
"And what type of genius idea have they come up with this time?" Brian sighed, knowing he wasn't going to like the answer.
"The staff would like to have a party after the Atlas Awards to celebrate the year we've had."
"That's all?"
"Uh, yeah," Justin nodded as he tried not to show his surprise. Brian seemed to be handling the request rather well.
"If you're agreeable I don't see why I wouldn't be."
"You do realize that if they throw a party, you'll be required to attend," Justin was quick to point out.
"I suppose it wouldn't kill me to make nice with the staff for a few hours," Brian commented. "In fact, it probably wouldn't hurt to employ Mr. Honeycutt's services in planning it."
"You're right. I'll go and tell Ted," the blond smiled, relieved that Brian had for once agreed without his usual fuss.
12:30 a.m.
Babylon
"Uh, hey," Cody nervously approached Brian who was standing at the bar.
"It's about time you got your twink ass here," Brian rolled his eyes. "For all you know, you could have missed your prime opportunity with your Frenchman."
"I thought I told you..."
"I know he's Quebecois," Brian muttered.
"That too, but I seem to recall telling you that I don't want him anymore."
"Bullshit."
"I'm out of his league," Cody protested.
"Then why has he fucked you twice?"
"It's actually been more like four times."
"Men like Bonbois don't do repeats."
"But..."
"Ah, there's our prey," Brian cocked his head in the direction of the dance floor. While he and Cody had been arguing, Bonbois and his friends had entered the club.
"He's hardly our prey, especially since it appears he's found his own prey for the evening," Cody frowned as he watched Jean Philippe lead a beefy trick in the direction of the backroom.
"That's where we come in, my dear twink," Brian revealed with a devious grin. "Are you coming?" he asked, reaching for the waiter's arm.
"Coming where?"
"To the backroom."
"Oh, no, if you honestly think I'm going to..."
"Do you want your Frenchman or not?" Brian challenged.
"Fine," Cody sighed before following Brian to the backroom.
***
"Isn't that Cody following Brian to the backroom?" Ted questioned while standing with Justin and Emmett on the catwalk.
"Sure is," Emmett confirmed, causing Justin's stomach to clench in pain. The artist knew he no longer had the right to care where his ex was concerned, but it didn't stop him from hurting to know Brian was with a trick.
"He's been spending quite a bit of time with the twink recently," Ted remarked as Emmett sent an uneasy glance in Justin's direction.
"I think I'm going to call it a night," Justin decided. He didn't think he could stomach hearing another word about Brian and Cody.
"Are you sure, baby?"
"Yeah, Em. I'm pretty tired. Thanks for agreeing to help with Kinnetik's party. I'll see you both tomorrow," Justin promised before turning to flee the club.
"Teddy?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you think it's too late for them?" Emmett mused as he watched the blond leave. It was obvious Justin still cared.
"You and I know it will never be over between them."
"Then why are they still apart?"
"Perhaps they're both too stubborn for their own good," Ted offered. "They'll find their way back to one another."
"I'm not so sure, Teddy," Emmett sighed. "I think it's going to take nothing short of a miracle to get them both back where they belong."
Meanwhile
The Backroom
"Uh, Brian?"
"What?" Brian turned to glance back at Cody with irritation as he led him towards Bonbois.
"What exactly am I supposed to do back here?" the waiter eyed his surroundings uneasily.
"Please don't tell me we're having this conversation," Brian rolled his eyes as he proceeded to drag Cody into a corner that was right within Jean Philippe's view.
"Maybe this isn't a good idea," Cody hesitated.
"Listen to me," Brian commanded. "Are you listening?" he waited for the twink to nod. "All you have to do is exactly what I tell you. Believe me, I'm not bullshitting you when I tell you I know your hockey player a hell of a lot better than you think."
"This better work."
"It will," Brian assured smugly. "Now I want you to start unbuttoning my shirt. Then you're going worship my chest with your mouth while working your way down towards my cock. At the same time I want you to make your raging lust for me known in French. You're going to have to make sure it's loud enough for your Frenchman to hear you. Once you reach my cock, I want you to unzip my pants and..."
"I get the picture," Cody blushed.
"One more thing," Brian added. "Under no circumstances are you to kiss me on the lips. I don't kiss."
"So I've heard."
"Now get to it," Brian ordered.
***
Soon Brian was leaning against the wall as Cody went to work worshipping his chest. He had to give the kid marks because whatever he was moaning in French had definitely gained Bonbois' attention. Now as he discreetly eyed his nemesis out of the corner of his eye, Brian could only hope that his plan went exactly the way he had anticipated.
***
Moments later, Cody was on his knees in front of him and was in the process of freeing his cock. Reaching with both hands to caress the twink's spiky hair, Brian could see that his neighbor's blood was boiling.
Needless to say, it came as no surprise to Brian to see Bonbois push his trick aside and angrily make his way over to them.
"What the fuck do you think you're doing?" Bonbois demanded.
"If you don't mind, the boy's about to suck me off," Brian responded casually.
"Not if I have any say in that," Jean Philippe growled. "Leve-toi," he ordered Cody. (Get up.)
"Dégage," the waiter replied in French. (Fuck off.)
"Je t'ai dit de te lever," Bonbois repeated fiercely. (I said get up.)
"Non."
"As you can see, we're busy," Brian indicated coolly. "Now why don't you do us both a favor and fuck off," he suggested before pulling Cody's head closer to his cock.
"Take your fucking hands off my twink now," Bonbois snarled.
"Your twink?" Brian raised an eyebrow in surprise.
"That's right, you heard me. Now for the last and final fucking time get up," he commanded Cody. "The only person you're going to be sucking off tonight is me and it's certainly not going to be in this godforsaken place," he muttered before taking Cody by the arm and dragging him out of the backroom, leaving Brian to smile in satisfaction.
Monday, September 20th
8:30 a.m.
Downtown Pittsburgh
As he sat in his Jeep waiting for a traffic light to change, Justin braced himself for what he was about to tell Brian that morning. After spending the entire weekend coming to grips with his decision, he was finally ready to move on with his life. While he knew that what he was about to do was going to come as something of a shock, it was his only chance at rebuilding his life and discovering what he truly wanted. After all of the pain he had experienced, it was time for him to learn how to be happy once again....
An Hour Later
Brian's Office
Kinnetik
"You wanted to see me?" Brian inquired as he watched Justin walk cautiously into his office, closing the door behind him.
"I need to talk to you."
"Take a seat," Brian offered as he wondered at the reason for the blond's request.
"I've u-uh been doing a lot of thinking recently," Justin began uneasily, "and I... think it would be best if I took a leave of absence."
"A leave of what?" Brian stared at the artist blankly, not quite believing the words that had come out of Justin's mouth.
"Absence," Justin finished.
"I see," Brian raked his hand uncomfortably through his hair. "And when would this leave of absence occur?"
"I thought my last day could be October 29th. That would give me over a month to finish the Sherbourne campaign."
"May I inquire as to how long you plan to be gone?"
"At least a month, maybe longer," Justin replied.
"And if you decide not to come back at all?"
"I'll let you know. I'm not going to leave you high and dry."
"Might I ask what you'll be doing during this leave of absence of yours?" Brian had a feeling he was not going to like the answer.
"It's simple. I'm going to Italy."
"Italy?" Brian parroted in surprise. "Aren't you forgetting school?"
"All I have left is a thesis and final project. I can finish them anywhere. Although, I suspect I'll be doing plenty of research in Florence since my thesis happens to be on the Renaissance."
"You've certainly thought of everything," Brian remarked.
"Look, I know this probably comes as something of a surprise to you, but it's something I need to do," Justin explained. "Just the thought of staying in Pittsburgh for much longer..."
"I understand."
"You do?"
"Yeah. Besides, I don't think I have much choice in the matter."
"If you'd rather I resigned...."
"No. Do what you need to do. Kinnetik will still be here when you get back," Brian promised.
"Thanks. You don't know how much this means to me," Justin smiled in relief. He was finally going to move on with on his life.
***
"Fuck," Brian murmured to himself once Justin had left. He should have seen this coming, especially since Justin had been so miserable of late. As much as he wanted to tell Justin not to go, to stay and give him another chance, Brian felt he owed it to the blond to step aside and allow him the freedom to make his own decisions. Yet as noble as that was, he couldn't help but have a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach that once Justin boarded his plane for Italy, there would no turning back for the artist - only moving forward. It was a reality that Brian was by no means ready to face....
by Kim
Making it Through Another Summer
Chapter 24
Monday, September 13th
9:15 a.m.
Brian's Office
Kinnetik
Brian attempted to suppress a yawn as he entered his office. Shedding his jacket, he was in the process of rolling up his sleeves when Cynthia entered.
"What happened to your arm?" Brian assistant asked as her eyes fell on the series of scratches running up and down his left forearm.
"Don't ask," Brian was in no mood to recount the joys of owning a cat. Only a few hours before, he'd been subjected to hearing Romeo babble incessantly throughout an overseas call to Italo Grazzini.
"Alright, I won't," Cynthia could see her boss was in one of his moods. "However, before I leave you to your work, I thought you might like to know that Pittsburgh Business Quarterly called this morning," she said, referring to the city's most prestigious business journal, which had previously carried a profile on Justin.
"And what do those pretentious bastards want?"
"Due to Kinnetik's recent Atlas nomination, they would like to feature an article about us in their next issue," Cynthia responded. A week earlier, Kinnetik had been nominated for the highly coveted agency of the year award.
"Let Justin handle it. I don't have time for them."
"They specifically requested to speak to you," Cynthia pointed out. "Besides, Justin is out of the office this morning."
"Where is he?"
"I don't know. He mentioned something about having to take care of a personal matter," Cynthia revealed while Brian nodded in response. "Bri?" she suddenly gave her boss a hesitant look.
"What?"
"When are you going to fix things between the two of you?"
"Who says there's anything to fix?" Brian challenged.
"You can't continue on this way. It's obvious you're both..."
"Miserable?" Brian finished.
"Isn't there something you can do?" Cynthia implored.
"He made his choice, Cynthia. It's my job to live with it," Brian stated before turning his attention toward his work.
Meanwhile
PIFA
"Your excellent grades in conjunction with the extra course work you've completed, make you an ideal candidate for December graduation," Justin's advisor, Dr. Brooks, indicated.
"Good to hear," Justin gave a relieved smile. "In addition to expediting my graduation, I was wondering if it would be possible to complete a thesis in place of my two remaining electives?"
"Since a thesis counts for six credit hours which would be equivalent to two electives, I don't foresee it being a problem. That on top of the six credits we will award for your final portfolio will certainly provide you with the remaining credits needed for graduation."
"Excellent," the artist nodded. Both the thesis and the portfolio would allow him the freedom to complete his degree wherever he wished, which was exactly what he had been hoping for when he'd made the appointment to meet with his advisor.
11:00 a.m.
Kinnetik
"Hi sweetie," August greeted Justin as he arrived in the office.
"How's it going this morning?"
"Not too bad. Cynthia dropped by earlier. Apparently Pittsburgh Business Quarterly called and Brian wants you to handle them. It's her understanding that they would like to write a profile on Kinnetik because of the Atlas nomination."
"Lovely," the blond rolled his eyes. The last thing he felt like doing was pretending to the influential publication that things were perfect at Kinnetik.
***
Fifteen minutes later, Brian was reading his e-mail when he looked up to see Justin standing in front of his desk.
"August told me you wanted me to handle Pittsburgh Business Quarterly," the artist began.
"I thought you might like to charm them with your witty repartee," Brian explained, reaching for a stack of documents that required his signature.
"Perhaps they would prefer dealing with the man behind the name," Justin countered. He was visibly annoyed by the fact that Brian was blowing him off.
"Perhaps the man behind the name isn't interested in the pompous publication," Brian argued, before stretching his left arm.
"Some trick," Justin offered with sarcasm as his eyes fell on the scratches marring Brian's arm.
"Romeo was rather ferocious last night," Brian gave a casual shrug.
"Since when do you remember names?"
"Is there a problem, Sunshine?"
Annoyed as he was with Brian's attitude Justin replied, "Of course not."
"Are you sure about that?" Brian couldn't help but wonder if his ex might be jealous.
"Look, are you going to handle the fucking magazine or not?"
"How about we handle it together?"
"You've got to be kidding me," Justin shook his head in disbelief.
"Don't think for a second I'm going to let you weasel your way out of it, Sunshine," Brian warned. "Speaking of weaseling, where the hell were you this morning?"
"Since when is it my responsibility to report my every move to you?"
"It's not, but I would appreciate some common courtesy every now and again."
"Right," Justin rolled his eyes. "On that note I think I'll be heading back to my office."
"Later," Brian murmured as he watched the blond leave. It was difficult not to wonder where Justin had been earlier, especially since his ex was looking more tired and strained as the days passed. As concerned as he was, Brian believed there was little he could do to help.
Tuesday
7:15 p.m.
The Loft
"I think Romeo likes the new mouse we got him, Daddy," Gus called out to Brian who was sitting at his computer.
"I'm sure he does, Sonny Boy," Brian smiled back. Earlier he had picked Gus up and had taken him to the pet store before bringing him back to the loft to play with Romeo. He had a feeling Romeo was more interested in the catnip that was inside the toy mouse than the mouse itself. Brian's train of thought was interrupted by the sound of the telephone.
***
"Hello?"
"Hi Brian, it's Jenn," Justin's mother greeted him warmly.
"Uh... hi," Brian attempted to mask the surprise from his voice.
"I realize this is short notice, but Royce and I were wondering if you might like to come over for dinner tomorrow evening," she invited.
"I'm not sure that's a good idea, Jennifer."
"Royce and I insist, Brian. The weather's still nice and Royce is planning to barbecue steaks out by the pool. Besides, you still haven't heard the details of our wedding," she commented, hoping she could convince him to agree. The real truth behind the invitation was that she and Royce were worried about Justin, and that they secretly hoped the couple would reconcile.
"Alright," Brian begrudgingly agreed. Accepting the invitation was the least he could do after the support they had lent him over the past several weeks.
An Hour Later
"Daddy?" Gus turned to look seriously at his father as they sat on the sofa petting Romeo.
"Yes, Sonny Boy?"
"Where's Jus?" Gus questioned with childlike innocence as Brian felt his insides clench with pain. He'd known this question was coming and had been hoping to avoid it.
"I'm afraid Justin no longer lives here, Gus."
"Where did he go?"
"He went to live with his mom," Brian explained.
"Why, Daddy?" Gus asked in a confused voice.
"I'm afraid he no longer loves your daddy," Brian revealed.
"Is it because of the thing you did to make him mad?" the boy inquired, remembering the reason why he had helped Brian purchase the Build a Bear.
"That's part of it," Brian confirmed grimly.
"Daddy, if Jus no longer loves you does that mean he no longer loves me?"
"Of course not," Brian set Romeo aside to lift his son onto his lap. "Listen to me, Sonny Boy. Are you listening?" he waited for Gus to nod in response. "I promise that no matter what happens or how Justin feels about me he will always love you. Got it?"
"Uh-huh," the child nodded solemnly. "Daddy?"
"Yes, Gus?"
"Just because Jus no longer loves you, doesn't mean I'll stop loving you," Gus promised before reaching up and wrapping his arms around Brian's neck.
"Thank you, Sonny Boy," Brian whispered in a voice filled with emotion. Words could not even begin to express how grateful he was to have the boy in his life.
Wednesday
6:30 p.m.
Royce & Jennifer's
After stopping at the loft to change into a pair of jeans and long-sleeved Juicy Couture T-shirt, Brian was now pulling his BMW into Royce and Jennifer's driveway. Steering the car closer to the house, he was momentarily taken aback by the sheer size of it. While he'd had a hunch that the house was impressive based on the fact that it was located in Fox Chapel, one of Pittsburgh's more exclusive suburbs, he hadn't anticipated it to be as grand as it appeared. Shaking his head in amusement, he made a mental note to bring the BMW in the future. He had no intention of being viewed as the "poor" relation.
***
"Brian, good to see you," Royce greeted, shaking the younger man's hand. "I'm glad you could make it," he said before leading him out to the patio.
"Nice house," Brian smirked as he surveyed his surroundings.
"It's a bit much isn't it?" Royce joked. "I only purchased it for its investment value."
"Craig must be pissed."
"Serves the asshole right," the attorney laughed. He felt no love towards Jennifer's ex-husband.
***
Half an hour later, Brian was sitting on the patio enjoying a beer while catching up with Royce and Jennifer. He was beginning to wonder if Justin was going to make an appearance when he turned his head to see the blond walk barefoot out onto the patio dressed in khaki colored cargo shorts and a black t-shirt.
"What the fuck are you doing here?" Justin stared at Brian. The last person he expected to see was his ex, especially since he hadn't mentioned anything at the office earlier.
"Justin, that's no way to greet our guest," Jennifer admonished.
"To answer your question, your mother and Royce invited me for dinner."
"They did?" Justin sent an angered look in Jennifer's direction.
"That's right, we did," Jennifer confirmed. "Now dinner's almost ready. Why don't you go inside and bring out the salad I left in the refrigerator?"
"Yes, Mother," Justin rolled his eyes before turning to reenter the house.
"That went well," Brian sardonically remarked as he watched the blond walk inside.
"Give him time, he'll come around," Jennifer assured as she reached across the table and gave Brian's hand a supportive squeeze.
"I don't know, Jenn. It's been almost a month," Brian sighed. He had little expectation of ever reconciling with Justin.
***
"Did you see the beautiful Grazzini vase Brian gave us for a wedding gift, honey?" Jennifer asked her son over dinner.
"No," Justin shook his head as he tried to concentrate on cutting another piece of steak.
"I put it in the dining room. You'll have to look at it later."
"Speaking of the wedding, why don't you tell Brian about it?" Royce invited.
"You wouldn't believe how romantic it was," Jennifer's face lit up with a dreamy smile. "Royce arranged for us to be married at the Four Seasons Resort at Jimbaran Bay. We were married right on the beach and then celebrated by sharing an intimate dinner in their gazebo overlooking the bay," she said as Brian politely pretended to listen. His real attention was focused on Justin who was too busy picking at his food to notice him staring.
***
"Would you like a cigar, Brian?" Royce offered after dinner.
"I'm afraid I'm going to have to decline," Brian said as he looked anxiously at his watch. While he wouldn't mind staying and chatting with the attorney he was afraid to leave Romeo by himself for much longer. Unfortunately, Brian had learned the hard way that his Siamese became a bit temperamental when he was left alone for hours on end. "Romeo is waiting for me back at the loft."
"Oh," Jennifer and Royce exchanged surprised glances while Justin attempted to keep his mouth from dropping open in shock.
"However, I appreciate the invitation to dinner. I enjoyed both the company and the steaks," he complimented before standing up to leave.
***
"Uh, Justin?" Jennifer gave her son an uneasy look once Brian had departed.
"What?" the blond muttered.
"Who's Romeo?"
"Beats me," Justin shrugged as he stood up from the table. "Why don't you ask Brian since you're so chummy with him now," he snapped as he headed toward the French doors that led inside.
"Justin," Jennifer objected. "I was only trying to help. I thought inviting him over to dinner would do you both some good."
"Obviously you thought wrong. If you want to do me any favors, stay out of my private life," Justin requested tersely before storming into the house, furious with his mother's blatant interference.
9:30 p.m.
The Loft
"O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?" Brian called out as he entered the loft.
"The little fur ball must be hiding somewhere," he frowned after scanning his immediate area and proceeding into the kitchen for a bottle of water.
"Ahh rah raaaaaaaaaaaaahhhrrr!"
"What the fuck?" Suddenly Brian's attention was drawn to living room, where Romeo was standing atop his sacred Mies van der Rohe coffee table.
"Listen to me you little fur ball," Brian commanded as he stormed over to the cat. "If you have any hope of surviving the next five minutes you'll get the fuck off that table now," he ordered in a stern tone.
"Now!" Brian yelled, causing the cat to jump from the table in fear, leaving scratch marks in his wake.
***
"I don't fucking believe this!" Furious, Brian stared down at his coffee table. One of his favorite pieces of furniture now had two ugly scratches running across its center. "Of all the fucking things in this loft you had to ruin this," he glared at Romeo, who stared back at him with pathetic eyes.
"Don't you dare make me feel sorry for you," Brian warned. "I've had it up to here when it comes to your antics. You better shape up, you little fucker, or else I'm siccing Juliet on you," he threatened before stalking into the bedroom. He'd had more than his fill when it came to the cat.
Meanwhile
Royce & Jennifer's
Standing out by the pool with a cigarette in hand, Justin's thoughts were on Brian. It was difficult to comprehend that his ex had already moved on and replaced him. Nevertheless, it was the only logical explanation for Romeo's presence in Brian's life. Knowing that he was easily replaceable left Justin feeling bitter. After everything Brian had meant to him, this was yet another sign that he had meant little to the man in return. It was more and more apparent that there was less of a reason for him to remain in Pittsburgh. After all, what was left for him?
Thursday, September 16th
7:30 p.m.
Lindsay & Melanie's
"Jus?" Gus looked up from the picture he was drawing to stare at the blond.
"Yes?" Justin had agreed to baby-sit Gus since Brian was tied up at a client dinner and Lindsay and Melanie had an important board meeting at the Gay and Lesbian Center.
"Why don't you love my Daddy anymore?"
"Where did you get that idea?"
"Daddy told me."
"H-he did?"
"He said that's why you don't live with him anymore," Gus explained in a sad voice.
"I see," Justin coughed. He was astonished by the fact that Brian had confided this to his son.
"Daddy said he's sorry for what he did, Jus."
"I know he is," the blond nodded grimly.
"Then why won't you forgive him?"
"I don't know if I can," Justin admitted.
"Mamma and Mommy always forgive me."
"I know they do, Gus. Believe me, if I could forgive your father I would. Unfortunately, it's not that easy."
"I wish it were. At least he still has Romeo and me. We love him."
"I know you do," Justin ruffled the boy's hair. "Gus, who's Romeo?" he unexpectedly found himself asking. Although he was desperately afraid of the answer, Justin let his curiosity get the better of him.
"He's my cat," the boy's face lit up with a wide smile.
"Y-your cat?" Justin's mouth dropped open. "But I thought your Mamma was allergic to them?"
"She is. That's why Romeo lives with Daddy. He gave Romeo to me for my birthday."
"Unbelievable," Justin shook his head in amazement. To say that he was flabbergasted by Romeo's identity would definitely have been an understatement. Just the idea of Brian owning a cat was more than his feeble mind could even begin to comprehend.
Friday
8:30 a.m.
The Gym
"You should have heard Brian on the phone yesterday. He's absolutely furious with Romeo right now," Michael commented as he threw a medicine ball back and forth with Emmett.
"What did he do?" Justin inquired before setting his towel down and joining the pair. He decided it best to act as if he hadn't only recently learned of the cat's identity.
"He ruined Brian's sacred Mies van der Rohe table."
"Oh my God," Emmett's mouth gaped open. "The poor cat must be dead by now."
"If you ask me, he's lucky to still be alive."
"No shit. Brian is obsessed with that table," Justin added. "Although he seemed reasonably calm at Kinnetik yesterday."
"Believe me, he's pissed. If it weren't for the fact that he has a soft spot for Romeo, the cat would have been gone weeks ago."
"I still can't fathom him as a cat owner," Emmett commented.
"I couldn't either until I saw them together," Michael interjected. "I think he may actually love Romeo."
"The only thing Brian loves is fucking," Emmett declared.
"Maybe he's changed," Michael offered as Justin found himself wondering if there may be some truth to his friend's words.
Noon
The Liberty Diner
"Well if it isn't the happy honeymooners," Brian greeted Michael and Ben before joining them in their booth.
"Hey, Brian," Michael welcomed his friend.
"I take it you're joining us for lunch?" Ben surmised. While he was still uncertain if the recent changes in Brian's demeanor would have a lasting effect, Ben was relieved that he and Michael had reconciled their friendship. For his husband's sake, Ben was willing to put his feelings aside and give Brian another chance.
"Why else would I be wasting my time sitting here?" Brian drawled with his usual sarcasm.
"So, how's Romeo?" Michael grinned, dying to know the cat's fate.
"You'll be happy to know the little fur ball is still in one piece. However, I made it quite clear that if he even so much as thinks about ruining another piece of furniture I'll be sure to introduce him to a Juliet."
"Nice," Ben rolled his eyes at the same moment as Bonbois entered the diner with his friends Etienne and Jacques in tow.
"Isn't that your obnoxious neighbor?" Michael asked.
"Yep," Brian confirmed.
"He must be riding high on his recent victory. Team Canada won the World Cup the other night. I heard Bonbois played phenomenally in the series."
"He certainly seems pleased with himself," Brian murmured as he observed Cody approach the hockey player's booth.
***
"Now that's a nice piece of ass," Jacques complimented in French, while Cody busied himself with taking their orders.
"I bet you wouldn't mind sating yourself in a twink like that," Etienne laughed, continuing the conversation in their native tongue.
"Have you had him?" Jacques turned to Bonbois while Cody moved on to the next table.
"Of course he has," Etienne interjected. "Do you honestly think Jean Philippe would pass up a nice piece of boy ass like that?"
"True," Jacques conceded. "So, is he any good?"
"He's not worth your time," Bonbois lied as he attempted to keep his eyes from lingering on the tempting brunet who was taking orders nearby. "I can honestly say I've had better."
"How disappointing," Jacques sighed. "I suppose I'll have to rely on you for recommendations tonight at Babylon."
***
"You seem awfully interested in Bonbois' table," Ben observed. Brian had been studying his neighbor with an intent expression on his face for several minutes.
"You imagine things," Brian dismissed the professor's notion.
"W-what the?" Michael suddenly turned his attention toward the hockey player's table at the exact same instant Cody started yelling at the man in rapid French.
"Now this is an unexpected twist," Brian murmured as he watched the furious waiter dump an entire pitcher of water over Bonbois' lap before turning to storm into the kitchen.
"Excuse me for a moment, gentlemen," Brian stood up from the table and decided it was in his best interests to find out what was happening between Cody and Bonbois.
"Where the fuck is he going?" Michael wondered as both he and Ben, along with Bonbois watched Brian proceed in the direction of the kitchen.
***
"What do you want?" Cody grumbled as he stood outside the diner's backdoor with a cigarette.
"Since when do you speak French?" Brian decided to forgo any niceties and get directly to the matter at hand.
"Gee, maybe because I'm a French major at Pitt," the waiter responded sarcastically.
"I take it you're fluent."
"I've only been studying the language for the past six years."
"I see," Brian nodded as he considered how he could use this new information to his advantage. He wasn't about to stop interfering until he reaped his ultimate revenge.
"Look, I answered your question so why don't you just go," Cody invited.
"Not until you tell me what happened inside."
"It doesn't matter."
"That's for me to decide. Now why don't you both do us a favor and start talking."
"Fine," Cody sighed. "I guess you could say I overheard his friends discussing me in French. Apparently one of his friends thinks I have a nice ass and wanted to know if I was any good."
"Let me guess, Bonbois answered that he'd had better."
"How did you guess?" Cody looked up at Brian with surprised eyes.
"I know your Frenchman better than you think."
"I thought I told you he was...."
"I know, Quebecois," Brian rolled his eyes. "Getting back to the little incident that occurred, I imagine it's safe to say that you didn't appreciate being insulted and decided to do a little insulting of your own?"
"Something like that," Cody grimaced.
"I think he got the message."
"I don't give a fuck whether he did or not. I'm wasting my time with an asshole like him. He'll never allow himself to love a twink like me."
"Never say never," Brian advised. "Stranger things have happened."
"Yeah right."
"So, are you up for Babylon tonight?" Brian inquired, abruptly changing the subject.
"Why do you ask?"
"I think it's time we put those French skills of yours to use," Brian announced with a smirk. Soon he would have Bonbois exactly where he wanted him.
3:00 p.m.
Brian's Office
Kinnetik
"Brian?" Brian looked up from his desk to see Justin standing in his doorway.
"Yeah?"
"Do you have a sec?"
"Sure, why not?" Brian shrugged before motioning for Justin to take a seat in one of the chairs in front of his desk.
"Ann Westhampton and Ted came to see me this afternoon with a request from our employee action committee."
"And what type of genius idea have they come up with this time?" Brian sighed, knowing he wasn't going to like the answer.
"The staff would like to have a party after the Atlas Awards to celebrate the year we've had."
"That's all?"
"Uh, yeah," Justin nodded as he tried not to show his surprise. Brian seemed to be handling the request rather well.
"If you're agreeable I don't see why I wouldn't be."
"You do realize that if they throw a party, you'll be required to attend," Justin was quick to point out.
"I suppose it wouldn't kill me to make nice with the staff for a few hours," Brian commented. "In fact, it probably wouldn't hurt to employ Mr. Honeycutt's services in planning it."
"You're right. I'll go and tell Ted," the blond smiled, relieved that Brian had for once agreed without his usual fuss.
12:30 a.m.
Babylon
"Uh, hey," Cody nervously approached Brian who was standing at the bar.
"It's about time you got your twink ass here," Brian rolled his eyes. "For all you know, you could have missed your prime opportunity with your Frenchman."
"I thought I told you..."
"I know he's Quebecois," Brian muttered.
"That too, but I seem to recall telling you that I don't want him anymore."
"Bullshit."
"I'm out of his league," Cody protested.
"Then why has he fucked you twice?"
"It's actually been more like four times."
"Men like Bonbois don't do repeats."
"But..."
"Ah, there's our prey," Brian cocked his head in the direction of the dance floor. While he and Cody had been arguing, Bonbois and his friends had entered the club.
"He's hardly our prey, especially since it appears he's found his own prey for the evening," Cody frowned as he watched Jean Philippe lead a beefy trick in the direction of the backroom.
"That's where we come in, my dear twink," Brian revealed with a devious grin. "Are you coming?" he asked, reaching for the waiter's arm.
"Coming where?"
"To the backroom."
"Oh, no, if you honestly think I'm going to..."
"Do you want your Frenchman or not?" Brian challenged.
"Fine," Cody sighed before following Brian to the backroom.
***
"Isn't that Cody following Brian to the backroom?" Ted questioned while standing with Justin and Emmett on the catwalk.
"Sure is," Emmett confirmed, causing Justin's stomach to clench in pain. The artist knew he no longer had the right to care where his ex was concerned, but it didn't stop him from hurting to know Brian was with a trick.
"He's been spending quite a bit of time with the twink recently," Ted remarked as Emmett sent an uneasy glance in Justin's direction.
"I think I'm going to call it a night," Justin decided. He didn't think he could stomach hearing another word about Brian and Cody.
"Are you sure, baby?"
"Yeah, Em. I'm pretty tired. Thanks for agreeing to help with Kinnetik's party. I'll see you both tomorrow," Justin promised before turning to flee the club.
"Teddy?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you think it's too late for them?" Emmett mused as he watched the blond leave. It was obvious Justin still cared.
"You and I know it will never be over between them."
"Then why are they still apart?"
"Perhaps they're both too stubborn for their own good," Ted offered. "They'll find their way back to one another."
"I'm not so sure, Teddy," Emmett sighed. "I think it's going to take nothing short of a miracle to get them both back where they belong."
Meanwhile
The Backroom
"Uh, Brian?"
"What?" Brian turned to glance back at Cody with irritation as he led him towards Bonbois.
"What exactly am I supposed to do back here?" the waiter eyed his surroundings uneasily.
"Please don't tell me we're having this conversation," Brian rolled his eyes as he proceeded to drag Cody into a corner that was right within Jean Philippe's view.
"Maybe this isn't a good idea," Cody hesitated.
"Listen to me," Brian commanded. "Are you listening?" he waited for the twink to nod. "All you have to do is exactly what I tell you. Believe me, I'm not bullshitting you when I tell you I know your hockey player a hell of a lot better than you think."
"This better work."
"It will," Brian assured smugly. "Now I want you to start unbuttoning my shirt. Then you're going worship my chest with your mouth while working your way down towards my cock. At the same time I want you to make your raging lust for me known in French. You're going to have to make sure it's loud enough for your Frenchman to hear you. Once you reach my cock, I want you to unzip my pants and..."
"I get the picture," Cody blushed.
"One more thing," Brian added. "Under no circumstances are you to kiss me on the lips. I don't kiss."
"So I've heard."
"Now get to it," Brian ordered.
***
Soon Brian was leaning against the wall as Cody went to work worshipping his chest. He had to give the kid marks because whatever he was moaning in French had definitely gained Bonbois' attention. Now as he discreetly eyed his nemesis out of the corner of his eye, Brian could only hope that his plan went exactly the way he had anticipated.
***
Moments later, Cody was on his knees in front of him and was in the process of freeing his cock. Reaching with both hands to caress the twink's spiky hair, Brian could see that his neighbor's blood was boiling.
Needless to say, it came as no surprise to Brian to see Bonbois push his trick aside and angrily make his way over to them.
"What the fuck do you think you're doing?" Bonbois demanded.
"If you don't mind, the boy's about to suck me off," Brian responded casually.
"Not if I have any say in that," Jean Philippe growled. "Leve-toi," he ordered Cody. (Get up.)
"Dégage," the waiter replied in French. (Fuck off.)
"Je t'ai dit de te lever," Bonbois repeated fiercely. (I said get up.)
"Non."
"As you can see, we're busy," Brian indicated coolly. "Now why don't you do us both a favor and fuck off," he suggested before pulling Cody's head closer to his cock.
"Take your fucking hands off my twink now," Bonbois snarled.
"Your twink?" Brian raised an eyebrow in surprise.
"That's right, you heard me. Now for the last and final fucking time get up," he commanded Cody. "The only person you're going to be sucking off tonight is me and it's certainly not going to be in this godforsaken place," he muttered before taking Cody by the arm and dragging him out of the backroom, leaving Brian to smile in satisfaction.
Monday, September 20th
8:30 a.m.
Downtown Pittsburgh
As he sat in his Jeep waiting for a traffic light to change, Justin braced himself for what he was about to tell Brian that morning. After spending the entire weekend coming to grips with his decision, he was finally ready to move on with his life. While he knew that what he was about to do was going to come as something of a shock, it was his only chance at rebuilding his life and discovering what he truly wanted. After all of the pain he had experienced, it was time for him to learn how to be happy once again....
An Hour Later
Brian's Office
Kinnetik
"You wanted to see me?" Brian inquired as he watched Justin walk cautiously into his office, closing the door behind him.
"I need to talk to you."
"Take a seat," Brian offered as he wondered at the reason for the blond's request.
"I've u-uh been doing a lot of thinking recently," Justin began uneasily, "and I... think it would be best if I took a leave of absence."
"A leave of what?" Brian stared at the artist blankly, not quite believing the words that had come out of Justin's mouth.
"Absence," Justin finished.
"I see," Brian raked his hand uncomfortably through his hair. "And when would this leave of absence occur?"
"I thought my last day could be October 29th. That would give me over a month to finish the Sherbourne campaign."
"May I inquire as to how long you plan to be gone?"
"At least a month, maybe longer," Justin replied.
"And if you decide not to come back at all?"
"I'll let you know. I'm not going to leave you high and dry."
"Might I ask what you'll be doing during this leave of absence of yours?" Brian had a feeling he was not going to like the answer.
"It's simple. I'm going to Italy."
"Italy?" Brian parroted in surprise. "Aren't you forgetting school?"
"All I have left is a thesis and final project. I can finish them anywhere. Although, I suspect I'll be doing plenty of research in Florence since my thesis happens to be on the Renaissance."
"You've certainly thought of everything," Brian remarked.
"Look, I know this probably comes as something of a surprise to you, but it's something I need to do," Justin explained. "Just the thought of staying in Pittsburgh for much longer..."
"I understand."
"You do?"
"Yeah. Besides, I don't think I have much choice in the matter."
"If you'd rather I resigned...."
"No. Do what you need to do. Kinnetik will still be here when you get back," Brian promised.
"Thanks. You don't know how much this means to me," Justin smiled in relief. He was finally going to move on with on his life.
***
"Fuck," Brian murmured to himself once Justin had left. He should have seen this coming, especially since Justin had been so miserable of late. As much as he wanted to tell Justin not to go, to stay and give him another chance, Brian felt he owed it to the blond to step aside and allow him the freedom to make his own decisions. Yet as noble as that was, he couldn't help but have a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach that once Justin boarded his plane for Italy, there would no turning back for the artist - only moving forward. It was a reality that Brian was by no means ready to face....