Good Night: B/J fic
Fandom: Queer As Folk
Characters: Brian, Justin, Jennifer, (Debbie, Michael, Mel, Linds, Ted, Emmett), Betty(fictional character)
Ships: B/J
Rating: PG (some language)
Disclaimer: I don't own anything having to do with Queer As Folk nor am I associated with the show in any way, shape or form.
Spoilers: Spoilers up through 1.22
Summary: Justin wakes from his coma after the bashing, but it's a month later.
I would love feedback!!! :)
Good Night
by Kristiane (viadisaster)
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Justin awoke to a soft beeping in his ears. As he drifted into consciousness he slowly tried to open his eyes.
What the hell is going on? He thought as his eyes parted, revealing a dark room around him. He looked straight ahead and recognized his heart beat running across a screen.
I'm in the hospital. He was laying on his side, facing the darkness outside his window. He slowly became aware that he was not alone. He felt a warm body against his own. The figure moved slightly, breathing deeply. Justin was startled, but too confused to move. He lay there for a minute, wondering who was behind him, now intertwining their hand in his. He cautiously shifted to turn on his side. As his eyes met the figure sleeping soundly beside him, he smiled. It was Brian. Justin took his hand out of Brian's and placed it gently on his cheek. A hushed smile fell upon Brian's lips, and he gently murmured something Justin could not understand. Justin sighed and closed his eyes. He lay there a few seconds before opening his eyes wide again.
Wait, he thought, his brow furrowing in confusion. What am I doing in the hospital? And what the fuck is Brian doing here?
Justin concentrated hard, trying to recall something that would explain all of this. The last moment he recalled was asking Brian to his prom.
How could I have been so stupid? Brian, at my prom. Yeah right.
Justin laughed quietly to himself, trying to picture Brian giving him a corsage and picking him up in a limo. He looked at Brian and chuckled. His soft laughter caused Brian to stir and shift uncomfortably. Justin watched as he pulled the covers up over his shoulders and opened his eyes wearily. He glanced at Justin and then closed his eyes again. He took a deep breath and then suddenly confusion overtook his face. He opened his eyes and stared at Justin. A look of disbelief came over his face and his mouth opened slightly.
“Justin?” he whispered, his voice hoarse with sleep. Justin smiled and opened his mouth to reply but Brian was already out of the bed. He stood and ran his hand through his hair. His look of disbelief had quickly turned to one of utter confusion. He paced the floor and pressed his palm over his mouth. He looked back at Justin, quickly moving his eyes back to the floor. Justin frowned.
What's he doing? He wondered, remaining silent. Brian suddenly stopped pacing and looked straight into Justin's eyes. Then, he turned and walked out, shutting the door behind him.
“Brian!” Justin called out, his voice faint. He got up, pulling the wires from his hands, the machine beside his bed emitting a high pitched beeping noise. He swung his legs over the side of his bed and tried to stand. His legs felt weak beneath his weight, but he attempted to take a step. He grabbed a table and steadied himself. His next step was more successful and he shuffled towards the door. As he placed his hand on the handle, the door was pushed open by a red-haired woman dressed in a nurses uniform.
“Oh my god! Oh god, you're alive. I was so....” She breathed heavily and her cheeks were flushed. “The monitor...flat lined...oh god...” She breathed deeply and leaned out into the hall. “Never mind, Marie! He's fine! Taylor just woke up,” she shouted down the long hallway. Her shouts were met with irritated replies from other patients, trying to sleep.
“Well, Justin, how are you feeling?” she asked cheerily, her initial shock gone. She took Justin's arm and tried to guide him back to his bed.
“No,” he replied defiantly, pulling his arm from her grip. “I have to find Brian.” He started towards the doorway, but she blocked his way.
“Oh, honey. You can't go anywhere now. You just woke up from a coma.” Once again, she took his arm. Justin blinked in confusion and let the nurse guide him back to the bed, sitting down on the edge.
“A coma?” he asked, looking up at her.
I've been in a fucking coma? He looked around the room for some sort of sign explaining this to him.
“Yeah, a coma. Tell me, what do you remember? What's your name?” The nurse smiled hopefully as she spoke.
“Justin Taylor, but aren't you supposed to know that?”
The nurse chuckled and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Of course I know your name, kiddo! And my name's Betty, betcha didn't know that! I've been your on-call nurse all this time. Never missed a day!” She grinned proudly and poured a glass of water, handing it to Justin.
“How...” he cleared his throat nervously. “How long have I been in here?”
Betty's eyes became sad as she looked out the window. “They always want to know how long.” She sighed and looked wearily at Justin. “You've been here about a month now.” Justin's eyes widened in surprise and his breath caught.
“A month...” he replied breathlessly. “What...what happened to me?” Betty's jaw tightened and her eyes fell to the floor.
“That's not for me to tell you, honey.” She looked up at Justin and made an attempt to smile. “I'm going to go call your mom, okay?” She didn't wait for a reply and quickly slipped out of the room, her heels clicking on the linoleum.
Justin sat, breathing hard, trying to remember something, anything at all. His eyes clenched shut in concentration, he ran his hands through his hair.
Babylon. Fucking Babylon is the last place I was. What could've happened there? I was with Brian for Christ....Brian! What the fuck was he doing here? Sleeping with me? Why did he leave?
Justin massaged his temples as his head began to throb.
“Justin!” a familiar voice whispered behind him. He turned to see his mother's figure in the doorway. “Oh my god...Justin...” She said breathlessly, tears running down her cheeks. She ran to the bed and pulled Justin into her arms. “Baby, you're okay. Oh, my baby.” Justin put his arms around his mother's neck and pulled her close, his own eyes filling with tears. They sat together without speaking for a few minutes, Jennifer unable to stop crying. Finally, she pulled herself together and smiled.
“Justin. You have no idea how scared I was I would never hug you again.” Her voice faltered and tears began to form in her eyes again.
“Mom, I'm okay.” Justin replied, a small smile on his lips. “Gosh, you're acting like Debbie.” Jennifer grinned and wiped her eyes.
“I called her on my way here. She'll be here soon. But honey, I'm so happy you're awake. You were in a coma. They weren't sure you'd ever wake up...” She sighed and placed a hand on Justin's neck.
“Mom...” Justin cleared his throat. “What happened?” Jennifer stared back at him, her eyes sad. She took Justin's hands in hers and looked out the window.
“Well, honey. A lot's happened. I don't even know where to start. What do you remember?” She looked at Justin, her eyes questioning and slightly fearful.
“That last thing I remember is asking Brian to my prom. We were at Babylon together and I asked him. He turned me down though. I don't even know why I asked, I mean, it's Brian.” Jennifer grimaced, her grip tightening on Justin's hands. Justin was confused by her reaction.
“Did something happen at Babylon that night? What happened to me?” Justin pleaded, tired of his confusion.
“No,” Jennifer replied. “Nothing happened at Babylon. It was at...” her voice shook. “At your prom.” Her lip quivered and a silent tear ran down her cheek.
“My prom?” Justin laughed nervously. “I went to prom? No way. I wasn't even going to go without Brian, I mean what's the point?” Jennifer shifted uncomfortably and took her hands into her own lap.
“You did go to your prom, with Daphne. And well...” her voice trailed off. When she began to speak again, her voice was no longer soft, it was cold and slightly angry. “Brian showed up and you two were in the parking...”
“Brian came to my prom?” Justin exclaimed, his eyes bright with surprise. “I don't believe it! There's no way. Why? What made him come? You didn't force him, did you? Oh god, please tell me you didn't force him...” Justin rambled on breathlessly.
“I had nothing to do with it,” Jennifer replied haughtily, her voice quiet. “Justin,” she began, her voice softer now. “Brian showed up at your prom but that's really all I know about it. I don't know why he did it. But, after your prom, you were in the parking garage together and one of your classmates, Chris Hobbs...” Jennifer choked back tears and put her face in her hands.
“Hobbs? Homophobe Hobbs?” Justin asked, confused. “What does he have to do with anything?”
Jennifer stopped sobbing and replied, “He hit you, Justin. He took a baseball bat and...oh god...he hit you with it. And then you were bleeding. He hit you in the head. He...he hit you.” Her body began to shake silently, but her eyes remained dry.
Justin sat, stunned. He opened his mouth to reply, but couldn't find any words to say. He sat there, gulping air, beside his mother as she shook and he was helpless.
“Sunshine!” a voice rang out from the doorway. Justin turned to see Debbie and Michael enter the room. Debbie ran to Justin and pulled him up off the bed into her arms.
“Jesus, Ma! Don't suffocate him!” Michael said, gently prying Justin from her arms. “Hi Justin.” he said softly, glancing towards Jennifer.
“Hey mom, why don't you talk to Jennifer for a minute. Justin and I are gonna go for a walk.” Michael smiled wearily and led Justin out the door.
“How are you?” Michael asked as he and Justin made their way slowly down the long, empty hallway.
“A little confused,” Justin replied. “And tired,” he added smiling.
“How can you be tired? You just slept for a month!” Michael exclaimed, laughing. He stopped laughing suddenly as he saw the pained expression on Justin's face.
“I'm sorry...I wasn't thinking...” he stammered. They walked down the hall in silence, each one unsure of what to say.
“Where's Brian?” Justin asked, trying to appear casual. Michael squinted uncomfortably and stopped walking.
“Let's go back to your room. Your mom is probably uh wondering...” Michael avoided making eye contact with Justin as he stumbled through his words.
“Michael,” Justin said, grabbing Michael's arm and forcing him to meet his eyes. “Where's Brian?”
“I called his cell to let him know...but he didn't answer...” Michael's eyes were sad as he spoke.
“He was just here...when I woke up! He was...here.” Justing exclaimed with frustration. Michael laughed nervously.
“What do you mean 'he was just here?'” Michael's eyes conveyed his confusion, his brow furrowing as he spoke.
He doesn't want them to know... Justin thought to himself, a smile spreading across his lips. He snapped back to reality and thought quickly.
“He was here! And we went to the roof and we jumped. But we didn't fall, Mikey. Brian would never let me fall.” Justin let his eyes glaze and a smile spread across his face. Michael suddenly understood and he placed a hand on Justin's shoulder.
“A dream...” Michal muttered, his voice barely audible. He shook his head and laughed a little. “Yeah, Justin. You're right. Brian would never let you fall.” His smile was pained as he looked at Justin. Justin felt a twinge of guilt in his heart for messing with Michael's mind, but he let him lead him back to the room like a child.
“Hey moms. We're back!” Michael said cheerily as he and Justin entered the hospital room. Debbie and Jennifer looked up from the photo album they had been looking at.
“Hey Sunshine!” Debbie exclaimed. “It's good to see ya.” She snapped her gum and stood up, bringing the album over to where Justin stood. “Look at these! I brought one of Mikey's photo albums. This is a really good one. Lots of naked pictures.” She said, her laughter filling the room.
“Mom!” Michael exclaimed, his cheeks flushing. “My photo albums are not substitutes for the latest edition of Out!” Michael grabbed the album and stuffed it quickly back into his mother's purse.
“Well, we'll have to look at that one later, eh Sunshine?” Debbie asked, her voice tender. She brought a hand to Justin's cheek and smiled softly. “It's really good to see you, kiddo.” She stood for a few seconds, as if in a trance, before looking at the watch on her wrist.
“Well, it's getting late. Hell! It was late when we got here! We better let you get some sleep, huh?” She turned to Michael and raised her eyebrows.
“Yeah, it's late. We really missed you, Justin.” Michael said, smiling. “We called Mel and Linds and Ted and Emmett but we told them they should wait to see you until tomorrow. Hope that's okay. We just didn't want you to be overwhelmed.” Michael sighed and took his mother's arm.
“Bye Sunshine!” Debbie exclaimed as she and Michael left the room. Justin turned and looked at his mother, still sitting on his bed.
“I'm really tired,” Justin said, faking a yawn. “But, do you have my cell phone? I think I should really call everybody tonight, just so they know for sure.”
“Sure, honey.” Jennifer said wearily. “It's in my purse somewhere...” She began rummaging through her large back bag while Justin came over to sit on the bed. “Remember to call Daphne too,” Jennifer said, her head practically inside the bag. “Ah hah!” She exclaimed, pulling the phone from the depths of her purse. Justin took it in his hands and watched it power up.
“It's stuff like this...you never think about. Cell phones, the ocean, rain...I could never have seen any of this stuff again.” Justin said, his eyes still on the phone.
“Honey, do you want me to stay tonight? Molly can stay at your fathers. They're coming to visit first thing tomorrow, you know...” Jennifer said, but her eyes told Justin that his father would not be happy to have Molly stay.
“No,” Justin replied. “Go home to Molly. She needs you know. I'll be fine until the morning. After all, I'm used to the place. I've been here a month, haven't I?” Justin replied, smiling. Jennifer laughed and stood up.
“Are you sure? Because I can stay...”
“Yeah, I'm sure. Go home. I'll see you in the morning.” Justin replied, giving his mother a long hug.
“See you tomorrow, sweetie.” Jennifer said quietly, kissing Justin on the cheek.
“Love you,” Justin replied, sitting down on the bed. He waited until he could no longer hear the sound of his mother's footsteps in the hall before looking at the clock. It was midnight.
And the party starts at Babylon... Justin mused. He looked up Mel and Linds in his contacts list and hit the call button. The phone rang twice before it was answered.
“Hello?” Melanie answered, her voice tired.
“Hi Mel.” Justin replied. “It's me, Justin.” He was answered by silence. He sat there listening for a few seconds before clearing his throat.
“Justin!” Melanie whispered. “Hold on one second, sweetie. Linds! Justin's on the phone. Come here!” He heard the phone being put in the cradle and a quiet beep. “Are you still there?” Melanie asked. “You're on speaker phone.”
“Yeah, I'm here.” Justin replied. “I just wanted to let you know that I'm really awake.”
“It's so good to hear your voice,” Lindsey said and Justin could imagine the smile on her face. “We're coming over in the morning. And we're bringing Gus. He missed you.” Justin smiled as he felt a small pain in his heart. He suddenly realized that he couldn't wait to see everyone. He had missed them, even if he couldn't remember.
“Yeah, well I'll see you guys tomorrow.” Justin replied, his voice shaking slightly.
“We love you!” Melanie and Linds replied simultaneously.
“Bye.” Justin said, ending the call quickly, not wanting them to detect his sadness.
Time to call Daph. Justin thought, smiling. She is going to flip! Justin, now sitting cross-legged in his bed, dialed her number.
“Hey, you've reached Daphne. I'm busy, or I'm out, or I'm sleeping, or you know...doing something! Leave me a message!” Beep. Justin smiled at the sound of Daphne's voice and forgot that he was supposed to be saying something.
“Uh, hey Daph! It's Justin,” he stammered. “I woke up! I know you're going to flip when you hear this, but don't come to the hospital or anything. I'm fine. I'll call you tomorrow.” He ended the call, shaking his head. He didn't think before making the next call. His fingers dialed automatically.
“Hellooooooo!” Emmett said and began giggling. “Teddy, stop! I'm on the phone! Hello?”
“Hi Emmett.” Justin replied. “It's Justin.” Suddenly the other end of the call became silent. Justin could hear the music from Babylon in the background, bouncing of the alleyway walls.
“Hey honey!” Emmett said quickly. “How are you?”
“I'm fine.” Justin answered. “I just wanted to call and uh...” Justin's voice trailed off.
“I'm glad you called.” Emmett replied. “Teddy, it's Justin.” Justin heard Ted speak, but his words were muddled.
“Teddy sends his love and says he can't wait to see you.” Emmett said after a pause. “We're coming tomorrow, along with the rest of Pittsburgh.” Emmett giggled and Justin couldn't resist, letting his own mouth form a real smile.
“See you tomorrow.” Justin said after the line had been quiet for a few seconds. He heard a click and knew that Emmett had hung up.
He's probably crying now. Justin thought. I ruined his whole night. Then Justin smiled. No one can ruin Emmett's night.
Justin held the phone in his palm and felt the weight. There was only one more call to make. He dialed the number but didn't press the call button. He simply sat, staring at Brian's name on the screen.
He won't answer anyways. Justin thought, running his fingers through his hair. He looked at the clock again; twelve-thirty. He ran his finger over Brian's name and felt a strange feeling in his chest. His breath felt hot and it became difficult to breathe. This was how he had felt the night he'd met Brian.
So this is what being nervous feels like. Justin thought, laughing quietly. He placed the phone lightly on the table beside his bed and turned towards the door. He heard heavy breathing and squinted in the darkness, attempting to make out the figure in the doorway. The form was tall and leaning to the left, watching him.
“Brian?” Justin asked breathlessly. The figure shifted slightly, and his face was caught in the light of the hallway. Justin got up and slowly approached the doorway.
“What are you doing here?” Justin asked, now standing in Brian's shadow.
“I just like the smell of hospitals,” Brian replied hoarsely, a slight smile pulling at his lips. “There's something about Pine Sol that just does it for me.” Justin smiled and stared down at his feet. He felt Brian's hand under his chin as his face was lifted to stare into Brian's eyes. Brian looked at him with an intensity Justin had never seen before. It was as if Brian didn't believe that Justin was really there.
“It's me.” Justin said softly, placing his warm hand on Brian's cool one. Brian shivered slightly at Justin's touch and looked past him to the window.
“Are you okay?” he asked, his eyes still on the window. He didn't remove his hands from Justin's face and Justin closed his eyes to enjoy the feeling.
“I'm fine.” Justin replied, his eyes still closed.
“Why did you leave?” Justin asked quietly. He felt Brian's eyes on him and Justin opened his own eyes, staring back at him. Brian swallowed uncomfortably and slid his hands down to rest on Justin's neck.
“Had some stuff to do.” He replied quickly.
“Well, I'm glad you're back.” Justin said, his voice gentle. Brian nodded slightly and took Justin in his arms. He placed his hand on the back of Justin's neck and moved his fingers in small circles. Justin stood silently, on his tiptoes to counter Brian's height. They stood together for a few minutes before Brian gently broke away from Justin and held him at arms length. He looked him over and a smile spread across his face.
“What is it?” Justin asked, laughing nervously.
“You're in a coma for a month, lying in a bed, eating through a tube...and you're still hot.” Brian replied, smirking. Justin smiled back and pressed his fingers into Brian's arm. Brian let his hands fall from Justin's arms and looked around the small room.
“Nice place you got here.” He said with a hint of sarcasm Justin couldn't miss. “I love what you've done with the place.” Brian winked and walked over to a table in the corner piled with books. “This was my favorite,” he remarked, picking up a tattered book with the word 'Spies' printed on the cover. “Really well written....it's about the war, you know...”
Brian Kinney reading books? God, a lot of things did change while I was sleeping. Then, suddenly, Justin understood. Brian had been there, with him, every night. That's why he'd been there when Justin woke up.
“Yeah, I've heard it's good,” Justin lied. He smiled, walking over to Brian, turning him around to look into his eyes. As Justin stared into Brian's eyes, he understood. He didn't have to say anything at all.
Slowly, Justin pulled Brian's face towards his own. As their lips met, Justin felt his heart surge in his chest. Brian put his hand on the small of Justin's back and pulled him into the kiss. Their hands intertwined and Justin felt Brian's tongue push gently into his mouth. Brian leaned into Justin and pulled him in even closer.
“Hello boys,” Betty said quietly as she opened the door. “I'm afraid it's really time for Justin to go to sleep.” She looked at them, and smiled warmly. “Brian, I left your things right outside. Have a good night.” She said, giving them a small wave and chuckling to herself.
“You're staying?” Justing asked, his arms still around Brian.
“Only if you want me to.” Brian replied, drawing his fingers across Justin's back. Justin stood up in his tiptoes and gently touched his lips to Brian's.
“You better go get your 'things' then.” Justin said, a smile pulling at his lips. He sauntered over to his bed and climbed beneath the covers, watching as Brian got undressed. Brian leaned out the door and retrieved something from a table outside before climbing into bed beside Justin.
“What's that?” Justin asked, squinting to identify the object in the dark.
“Just my teddy bear.” Brian replied, flashing the bottle of Jack Daniels in Justin's direction. Justin smiled and put his head on Brian's chest. Brian paused for a second before putting his arms around Justin's warm body. He took a sip out of the bottle and offered it to Justin.
“No thanks.” Justin replied. “I've got everything I need.”
FIN
Characters: Brian, Justin, Jennifer, (Debbie, Michael, Mel, Linds, Ted, Emmett), Betty(fictional character)
Ships: B/J
Rating: PG (some language)
Disclaimer: I don't own anything having to do with Queer As Folk nor am I associated with the show in any way, shape or form.
Spoilers: Spoilers up through 1.22
Summary: Justin wakes from his coma after the bashing, but it's a month later.
I would love feedback!!! :)
Good Night
by Kristiane (viadisaster)
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Justin awoke to a soft beeping in his ears. As he drifted into consciousness he slowly tried to open his eyes.
What the hell is going on? He thought as his eyes parted, revealing a dark room around him. He looked straight ahead and recognized his heart beat running across a screen.
I'm in the hospital. He was laying on his side, facing the darkness outside his window. He slowly became aware that he was not alone. He felt a warm body against his own. The figure moved slightly, breathing deeply. Justin was startled, but too confused to move. He lay there for a minute, wondering who was behind him, now intertwining their hand in his. He cautiously shifted to turn on his side. As his eyes met the figure sleeping soundly beside him, he smiled. It was Brian. Justin took his hand out of Brian's and placed it gently on his cheek. A hushed smile fell upon Brian's lips, and he gently murmured something Justin could not understand. Justin sighed and closed his eyes. He lay there a few seconds before opening his eyes wide again.
Wait, he thought, his brow furrowing in confusion. What am I doing in the hospital? And what the fuck is Brian doing here?
Justin concentrated hard, trying to recall something that would explain all of this. The last moment he recalled was asking Brian to his prom.
How could I have been so stupid? Brian, at my prom. Yeah right.
Justin laughed quietly to himself, trying to picture Brian giving him a corsage and picking him up in a limo. He looked at Brian and chuckled. His soft laughter caused Brian to stir and shift uncomfortably. Justin watched as he pulled the covers up over his shoulders and opened his eyes wearily. He glanced at Justin and then closed his eyes again. He took a deep breath and then suddenly confusion overtook his face. He opened his eyes and stared at Justin. A look of disbelief came over his face and his mouth opened slightly.
“Justin?” he whispered, his voice hoarse with sleep. Justin smiled and opened his mouth to reply but Brian was already out of the bed. He stood and ran his hand through his hair. His look of disbelief had quickly turned to one of utter confusion. He paced the floor and pressed his palm over his mouth. He looked back at Justin, quickly moving his eyes back to the floor. Justin frowned.
What's he doing? He wondered, remaining silent. Brian suddenly stopped pacing and looked straight into Justin's eyes. Then, he turned and walked out, shutting the door behind him.
“Brian!” Justin called out, his voice faint. He got up, pulling the wires from his hands, the machine beside his bed emitting a high pitched beeping noise. He swung his legs over the side of his bed and tried to stand. His legs felt weak beneath his weight, but he attempted to take a step. He grabbed a table and steadied himself. His next step was more successful and he shuffled towards the door. As he placed his hand on the handle, the door was pushed open by a red-haired woman dressed in a nurses uniform.
“Oh my god! Oh god, you're alive. I was so....” She breathed heavily and her cheeks were flushed. “The monitor...flat lined...oh god...” She breathed deeply and leaned out into the hall. “Never mind, Marie! He's fine! Taylor just woke up,” she shouted down the long hallway. Her shouts were met with irritated replies from other patients, trying to sleep.
“Well, Justin, how are you feeling?” she asked cheerily, her initial shock gone. She took Justin's arm and tried to guide him back to his bed.
“No,” he replied defiantly, pulling his arm from her grip. “I have to find Brian.” He started towards the doorway, but she blocked his way.
“Oh, honey. You can't go anywhere now. You just woke up from a coma.” Once again, she took his arm. Justin blinked in confusion and let the nurse guide him back to the bed, sitting down on the edge.
“A coma?” he asked, looking up at her.
I've been in a fucking coma? He looked around the room for some sort of sign explaining this to him.
“Yeah, a coma. Tell me, what do you remember? What's your name?” The nurse smiled hopefully as she spoke.
“Justin Taylor, but aren't you supposed to know that?”
The nurse chuckled and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Of course I know your name, kiddo! And my name's Betty, betcha didn't know that! I've been your on-call nurse all this time. Never missed a day!” She grinned proudly and poured a glass of water, handing it to Justin.
“How...” he cleared his throat nervously. “How long have I been in here?”
Betty's eyes became sad as she looked out the window. “They always want to know how long.” She sighed and looked wearily at Justin. “You've been here about a month now.” Justin's eyes widened in surprise and his breath caught.
“A month...” he replied breathlessly. “What...what happened to me?” Betty's jaw tightened and her eyes fell to the floor.
“That's not for me to tell you, honey.” She looked up at Justin and made an attempt to smile. “I'm going to go call your mom, okay?” She didn't wait for a reply and quickly slipped out of the room, her heels clicking on the linoleum.
Justin sat, breathing hard, trying to remember something, anything at all. His eyes clenched shut in concentration, he ran his hands through his hair.
Babylon. Fucking Babylon is the last place I was. What could've happened there? I was with Brian for Christ....Brian! What the fuck was he doing here? Sleeping with me? Why did he leave?
Justin massaged his temples as his head began to throb.
“Justin!” a familiar voice whispered behind him. He turned to see his mother's figure in the doorway. “Oh my god...Justin...” She said breathlessly, tears running down her cheeks. She ran to the bed and pulled Justin into her arms. “Baby, you're okay. Oh, my baby.” Justin put his arms around his mother's neck and pulled her close, his own eyes filling with tears. They sat together without speaking for a few minutes, Jennifer unable to stop crying. Finally, she pulled herself together and smiled.
“Justin. You have no idea how scared I was I would never hug you again.” Her voice faltered and tears began to form in her eyes again.
“Mom, I'm okay.” Justin replied, a small smile on his lips. “Gosh, you're acting like Debbie.” Jennifer grinned and wiped her eyes.
“I called her on my way here. She'll be here soon. But honey, I'm so happy you're awake. You were in a coma. They weren't sure you'd ever wake up...” She sighed and placed a hand on Justin's neck.
“Mom...” Justin cleared his throat. “What happened?” Jennifer stared back at him, her eyes sad. She took Justin's hands in hers and looked out the window.
“Well, honey. A lot's happened. I don't even know where to start. What do you remember?” She looked at Justin, her eyes questioning and slightly fearful.
“That last thing I remember is asking Brian to my prom. We were at Babylon together and I asked him. He turned me down though. I don't even know why I asked, I mean, it's Brian.” Jennifer grimaced, her grip tightening on Justin's hands. Justin was confused by her reaction.
“Did something happen at Babylon that night? What happened to me?” Justin pleaded, tired of his confusion.
“No,” Jennifer replied. “Nothing happened at Babylon. It was at...” her voice shook. “At your prom.” Her lip quivered and a silent tear ran down her cheek.
“My prom?” Justin laughed nervously. “I went to prom? No way. I wasn't even going to go without Brian, I mean what's the point?” Jennifer shifted uncomfortably and took her hands into her own lap.
“You did go to your prom, with Daphne. And well...” her voice trailed off. When she began to speak again, her voice was no longer soft, it was cold and slightly angry. “Brian showed up and you two were in the parking...”
“Brian came to my prom?” Justin exclaimed, his eyes bright with surprise. “I don't believe it! There's no way. Why? What made him come? You didn't force him, did you? Oh god, please tell me you didn't force him...” Justin rambled on breathlessly.
“I had nothing to do with it,” Jennifer replied haughtily, her voice quiet. “Justin,” she began, her voice softer now. “Brian showed up at your prom but that's really all I know about it. I don't know why he did it. But, after your prom, you were in the parking garage together and one of your classmates, Chris Hobbs...” Jennifer choked back tears and put her face in her hands.
“Hobbs? Homophobe Hobbs?” Justin asked, confused. “What does he have to do with anything?”
Jennifer stopped sobbing and replied, “He hit you, Justin. He took a baseball bat and...oh god...he hit you with it. And then you were bleeding. He hit you in the head. He...he hit you.” Her body began to shake silently, but her eyes remained dry.
Justin sat, stunned. He opened his mouth to reply, but couldn't find any words to say. He sat there, gulping air, beside his mother as she shook and he was helpless.
“Sunshine!” a voice rang out from the doorway. Justin turned to see Debbie and Michael enter the room. Debbie ran to Justin and pulled him up off the bed into her arms.
“Jesus, Ma! Don't suffocate him!” Michael said, gently prying Justin from her arms. “Hi Justin.” he said softly, glancing towards Jennifer.
“Hey mom, why don't you talk to Jennifer for a minute. Justin and I are gonna go for a walk.” Michael smiled wearily and led Justin out the door.
“How are you?” Michael asked as he and Justin made their way slowly down the long, empty hallway.
“A little confused,” Justin replied. “And tired,” he added smiling.
“How can you be tired? You just slept for a month!” Michael exclaimed, laughing. He stopped laughing suddenly as he saw the pained expression on Justin's face.
“I'm sorry...I wasn't thinking...” he stammered. They walked down the hall in silence, each one unsure of what to say.
“Where's Brian?” Justin asked, trying to appear casual. Michael squinted uncomfortably and stopped walking.
“Let's go back to your room. Your mom is probably uh wondering...” Michael avoided making eye contact with Justin as he stumbled through his words.
“Michael,” Justin said, grabbing Michael's arm and forcing him to meet his eyes. “Where's Brian?”
“I called his cell to let him know...but he didn't answer...” Michael's eyes were sad as he spoke.
“He was just here...when I woke up! He was...here.” Justing exclaimed with frustration. Michael laughed nervously.
“What do you mean 'he was just here?'” Michael's eyes conveyed his confusion, his brow furrowing as he spoke.
He doesn't want them to know... Justin thought to himself, a smile spreading across his lips. He snapped back to reality and thought quickly.
“He was here! And we went to the roof and we jumped. But we didn't fall, Mikey. Brian would never let me fall.” Justin let his eyes glaze and a smile spread across his face. Michael suddenly understood and he placed a hand on Justin's shoulder.
“A dream...” Michal muttered, his voice barely audible. He shook his head and laughed a little. “Yeah, Justin. You're right. Brian would never let you fall.” His smile was pained as he looked at Justin. Justin felt a twinge of guilt in his heart for messing with Michael's mind, but he let him lead him back to the room like a child.
“Hey moms. We're back!” Michael said cheerily as he and Justin entered the hospital room. Debbie and Jennifer looked up from the photo album they had been looking at.
“Hey Sunshine!” Debbie exclaimed. “It's good to see ya.” She snapped her gum and stood up, bringing the album over to where Justin stood. “Look at these! I brought one of Mikey's photo albums. This is a really good one. Lots of naked pictures.” She said, her laughter filling the room.
“Mom!” Michael exclaimed, his cheeks flushing. “My photo albums are not substitutes for the latest edition of Out!” Michael grabbed the album and stuffed it quickly back into his mother's purse.
“Well, we'll have to look at that one later, eh Sunshine?” Debbie asked, her voice tender. She brought a hand to Justin's cheek and smiled softly. “It's really good to see you, kiddo.” She stood for a few seconds, as if in a trance, before looking at the watch on her wrist.
“Well, it's getting late. Hell! It was late when we got here! We better let you get some sleep, huh?” She turned to Michael and raised her eyebrows.
“Yeah, it's late. We really missed you, Justin.” Michael said, smiling. “We called Mel and Linds and Ted and Emmett but we told them they should wait to see you until tomorrow. Hope that's okay. We just didn't want you to be overwhelmed.” Michael sighed and took his mother's arm.
“Bye Sunshine!” Debbie exclaimed as she and Michael left the room. Justin turned and looked at his mother, still sitting on his bed.
“I'm really tired,” Justin said, faking a yawn. “But, do you have my cell phone? I think I should really call everybody tonight, just so they know for sure.”
“Sure, honey.” Jennifer said wearily. “It's in my purse somewhere...” She began rummaging through her large back bag while Justin came over to sit on the bed. “Remember to call Daphne too,” Jennifer said, her head practically inside the bag. “Ah hah!” She exclaimed, pulling the phone from the depths of her purse. Justin took it in his hands and watched it power up.
“It's stuff like this...you never think about. Cell phones, the ocean, rain...I could never have seen any of this stuff again.” Justin said, his eyes still on the phone.
“Honey, do you want me to stay tonight? Molly can stay at your fathers. They're coming to visit first thing tomorrow, you know...” Jennifer said, but her eyes told Justin that his father would not be happy to have Molly stay.
“No,” Justin replied. “Go home to Molly. She needs you know. I'll be fine until the morning. After all, I'm used to the place. I've been here a month, haven't I?” Justin replied, smiling. Jennifer laughed and stood up.
“Are you sure? Because I can stay...”
“Yeah, I'm sure. Go home. I'll see you in the morning.” Justin replied, giving his mother a long hug.
“See you tomorrow, sweetie.” Jennifer said quietly, kissing Justin on the cheek.
“Love you,” Justin replied, sitting down on the bed. He waited until he could no longer hear the sound of his mother's footsteps in the hall before looking at the clock. It was midnight.
And the party starts at Babylon... Justin mused. He looked up Mel and Linds in his contacts list and hit the call button. The phone rang twice before it was answered.
“Hello?” Melanie answered, her voice tired.
“Hi Mel.” Justin replied. “It's me, Justin.” He was answered by silence. He sat there listening for a few seconds before clearing his throat.
“Justin!” Melanie whispered. “Hold on one second, sweetie. Linds! Justin's on the phone. Come here!” He heard the phone being put in the cradle and a quiet beep. “Are you still there?” Melanie asked. “You're on speaker phone.”
“Yeah, I'm here.” Justin replied. “I just wanted to let you know that I'm really awake.”
“It's so good to hear your voice,” Lindsey said and Justin could imagine the smile on her face. “We're coming over in the morning. And we're bringing Gus. He missed you.” Justin smiled as he felt a small pain in his heart. He suddenly realized that he couldn't wait to see everyone. He had missed them, even if he couldn't remember.
“Yeah, well I'll see you guys tomorrow.” Justin replied, his voice shaking slightly.
“We love you!” Melanie and Linds replied simultaneously.
“Bye.” Justin said, ending the call quickly, not wanting them to detect his sadness.
Time to call Daph. Justin thought, smiling. She is going to flip! Justin, now sitting cross-legged in his bed, dialed her number.
“Hey, you've reached Daphne. I'm busy, or I'm out, or I'm sleeping, or you know...doing something! Leave me a message!” Beep. Justin smiled at the sound of Daphne's voice and forgot that he was supposed to be saying something.
“Uh, hey Daph! It's Justin,” he stammered. “I woke up! I know you're going to flip when you hear this, but don't come to the hospital or anything. I'm fine. I'll call you tomorrow.” He ended the call, shaking his head. He didn't think before making the next call. His fingers dialed automatically.
“Hellooooooo!” Emmett said and began giggling. “Teddy, stop! I'm on the phone! Hello?”
“Hi Emmett.” Justin replied. “It's Justin.” Suddenly the other end of the call became silent. Justin could hear the music from Babylon in the background, bouncing of the alleyway walls.
“Hey honey!” Emmett said quickly. “How are you?”
“I'm fine.” Justin answered. “I just wanted to call and uh...” Justin's voice trailed off.
“I'm glad you called.” Emmett replied. “Teddy, it's Justin.” Justin heard Ted speak, but his words were muddled.
“Teddy sends his love and says he can't wait to see you.” Emmett said after a pause. “We're coming tomorrow, along with the rest of Pittsburgh.” Emmett giggled and Justin couldn't resist, letting his own mouth form a real smile.
“See you tomorrow.” Justin said after the line had been quiet for a few seconds. He heard a click and knew that Emmett had hung up.
He's probably crying now. Justin thought. I ruined his whole night. Then Justin smiled. No one can ruin Emmett's night.
Justin held the phone in his palm and felt the weight. There was only one more call to make. He dialed the number but didn't press the call button. He simply sat, staring at Brian's name on the screen.
He won't answer anyways. Justin thought, running his fingers through his hair. He looked at the clock again; twelve-thirty. He ran his finger over Brian's name and felt a strange feeling in his chest. His breath felt hot and it became difficult to breathe. This was how he had felt the night he'd met Brian.
So this is what being nervous feels like. Justin thought, laughing quietly. He placed the phone lightly on the table beside his bed and turned towards the door. He heard heavy breathing and squinted in the darkness, attempting to make out the figure in the doorway. The form was tall and leaning to the left, watching him.
“Brian?” Justin asked breathlessly. The figure shifted slightly, and his face was caught in the light of the hallway. Justin got up and slowly approached the doorway.
“What are you doing here?” Justin asked, now standing in Brian's shadow.
“I just like the smell of hospitals,” Brian replied hoarsely, a slight smile pulling at his lips. “There's something about Pine Sol that just does it for me.” Justin smiled and stared down at his feet. He felt Brian's hand under his chin as his face was lifted to stare into Brian's eyes. Brian looked at him with an intensity Justin had never seen before. It was as if Brian didn't believe that Justin was really there.
“It's me.” Justin said softly, placing his warm hand on Brian's cool one. Brian shivered slightly at Justin's touch and looked past him to the window.
“Are you okay?” he asked, his eyes still on the window. He didn't remove his hands from Justin's face and Justin closed his eyes to enjoy the feeling.
“I'm fine.” Justin replied, his eyes still closed.
“Why did you leave?” Justin asked quietly. He felt Brian's eyes on him and Justin opened his own eyes, staring back at him. Brian swallowed uncomfortably and slid his hands down to rest on Justin's neck.
“Had some stuff to do.” He replied quickly.
“Well, I'm glad you're back.” Justin said, his voice gentle. Brian nodded slightly and took Justin in his arms. He placed his hand on the back of Justin's neck and moved his fingers in small circles. Justin stood silently, on his tiptoes to counter Brian's height. They stood together for a few minutes before Brian gently broke away from Justin and held him at arms length. He looked him over and a smile spread across his face.
“What is it?” Justin asked, laughing nervously.
“You're in a coma for a month, lying in a bed, eating through a tube...and you're still hot.” Brian replied, smirking. Justin smiled back and pressed his fingers into Brian's arm. Brian let his hands fall from Justin's arms and looked around the small room.
“Nice place you got here.” He said with a hint of sarcasm Justin couldn't miss. “I love what you've done with the place.” Brian winked and walked over to a table in the corner piled with books. “This was my favorite,” he remarked, picking up a tattered book with the word 'Spies' printed on the cover. “Really well written....it's about the war, you know...”
Brian Kinney reading books? God, a lot of things did change while I was sleeping. Then, suddenly, Justin understood. Brian had been there, with him, every night. That's why he'd been there when Justin woke up.
“Yeah, I've heard it's good,” Justin lied. He smiled, walking over to Brian, turning him around to look into his eyes. As Justin stared into Brian's eyes, he understood. He didn't have to say anything at all.
Slowly, Justin pulled Brian's face towards his own. As their lips met, Justin felt his heart surge in his chest. Brian put his hand on the small of Justin's back and pulled him into the kiss. Their hands intertwined and Justin felt Brian's tongue push gently into his mouth. Brian leaned into Justin and pulled him in even closer.
“Hello boys,” Betty said quietly as she opened the door. “I'm afraid it's really time for Justin to go to sleep.” She looked at them, and smiled warmly. “Brian, I left your things right outside. Have a good night.” She said, giving them a small wave and chuckling to herself.
“You're staying?” Justing asked, his arms still around Brian.
“Only if you want me to.” Brian replied, drawing his fingers across Justin's back. Justin stood up in his tiptoes and gently touched his lips to Brian's.
“You better go get your 'things' then.” Justin said, a smile pulling at his lips. He sauntered over to his bed and climbed beneath the covers, watching as Brian got undressed. Brian leaned out the door and retrieved something from a table outside before climbing into bed beside Justin.
“What's that?” Justin asked, squinting to identify the object in the dark.
“Just my teddy bear.” Brian replied, flashing the bottle of Jack Daniels in Justin's direction. Justin smiled and put his head on Brian's chest. Brian paused for a second before putting his arms around Justin's warm body. He took a sip out of the bottle and offered it to Justin.
“No thanks.” Justin replied. “I've got everything I need.”
FIN