Brian was loading a couple of suitcases into the back of the jeep, when Debbie, Vic, Molly, and Jennifer pulled up in Jennifer’s van.

 

“Good morning,” smiled Jennifer as they approached the jeep.

 

“Hey.”

 

“Where’s Justin? He must be so excited,” said Molly.

 

“He’ll be down in a minute.”

 

“Brian, is everything all right?” Jennifer asked, concerned.

 

“Yeah, he’s fine. He had a rough evening last night, but slept well. He’s having some toast so he can take the medication before we leave.”

 

“Okay, that’s good I guess. I hope the driving doesn’t make him sick. He had motion sickness as a child.”

 

“He told me.” Brian opened the back door of the jeep. Inside was a plastic garbage can, a gallon of spring water, a container of baby wipes, a package of paper towel and a box of white garbage bags, one of which was already in the garbage can.

 

“Well, it looks like you’re all set,” chuckled Vic.

 

“No, I still have to get blankets, pillows and some snacks. I’m hoping he’ll sleep most of the way there.”

 

“Are all the arrangements finalized?” Jennifer asked.

 

“Here comes Cynthia. She’s been making the calls.”

 

“Good morning, everyone. Brian, here’s the final arrangements. If you approve, I’ll confirm it all en route.”

 

Brian took the papers from her and looked them over. “Looks great. Thanks for doing all of this for us. Can you explain to everyone what’s going on while I go check on Justin? You might want to wait a minute because it looks like more of the group is here,” said Brian. He waved to the new arrivals and went back inside.

 

Daphne was the first one to join them with warm greetings for everyone as Ted and Emmett crossed the street.

 

“See, Teddy. I told you we wouldn’t be the last ones here.”

 

“We would have been if I had left it up to you.”

 

“Will you knuckleheads shut up already. Cynthia is going to explain what arrangements she’s made for the trip.”

 

“Sorry Deb,” they said in unison.

 

Cynthia smiled at the pull Deb had over the guys. “I guess I should start by introducing myself. I’m Cynthia, Brian’s assistant. I’m pretty sure that I’ve talked to you all on the phone.”

 

“I’m so sorry, how rude of us. I’m Jennifer Taylor, Justin’s mother. We met briefly several years ago.”

 

“I’ll never forget,” laughed Cynthia.

 

Jennifer smiled back. “This is my daughter Molly.”

 

“Hello.”

 

“Hi,” Molly answered shyly.

 

“Deb, it’s good to see you. I’m very happy that you’re here. Brian thinks of you as a mother. I’ve met his biological mother and anyone would pick you as a replacement.”

 

“I wouldn’t be anywhere else. I don’t think you’ve met my brother Vic,” said Deb pointing to Vic.

 

“No. Mr. Grassi, it’s my pleasure. Brian speaks very highly of you.”

 

“Hey,” smiled Daphne. “I’m so glad you are coming with us. Justin and I have a theory that you are a very fun person.”

 

“Well, I intend to have some fun on this trip. As soon as they are married, my job is done and then I can relax.”

 

“So you’re the wedding planner. I hope you had more luck than we did.”

 

“Things are under control. It’s a little more complicated than it has to be, but then that’s Brian.”

 

“What do you mean?” Jennifer asked.

 

“It’s my opinion that Brian should have just stuck to the basic vows. But they decided to write their own. He’s been so freaked out by pledging his true feelings aloud and in front of all of us that yesterday I offered to write his vows for him. We all know how much he likes to talk about his feelings. Especially in public.”

 

“You must be talking about Brian,” said Mel as she joined the group.

 

“Yeah, what’s so interesting that you didn’t even hear us drive up,” smiled Lindsay.

 

“Cynthia, just told us that Brian and Justin are writing their own vows,” smiled Emmett. “How romantic.”

 

“Lindsay. I know he listens to you. Can you talk to him before the ceremony. Make sure he’s got something prepared so he doesn’t freeze during the ceremony.”

 

“He hasn’t written anything yet?”

 

“Not that I know of.”

 

“Okay, I’ll talk to him,” assured Lindsay. “This is my wife Melanie and I’m sure you guessed that this is Gus.”

 

“He is getting so big and looks just like Brian.”

 

“I’m Ted and this is Emmett.”

 

“Hello,” she smiled.

 

“I’ve always wondered what kind of person could work with Brian all day. I must say you aren’t what I expected,” said Ted.

 

“Oh.”

 

“I thought you must be either a mousy little thing that trembles at the thought of him or an old school teacher type that puts him in his place.”

 

Cynthia laughed. “We have an understanding. I understand that he is quick tempered and excuse most of his blow-ups. He understands that if he gets too out of hand, I have the ability to make his life a living hell. It’s very simple, but it works. Now, I better explain the arrangements before he gets back down here and we get to witness the first blow up of the day.”

 

There were a few snickers amongst the friends.

 

“We will drive to Niagara Falls. Before I go any further, I wanted to mention that we will be crossing an international border and will have to deal with customs agents. Think about what you are bringing and if it will be a problem. I also hope you all have picture IDs or passports. Brian had me book seven rooms at a hotel overlooking the Falls. A suite for Justin and Brian and six double rooms for the rest of us. One for Michael and Ben.”

 

An uneasy rumble went threw the group. Cynthia decided not to inquire about their whereabouts at this time and continued.

 

“One room for Lindsay, Melanie and Gus, another for Ted and Emmett. Jennifer and Molly have the next room. Debbie and Vic share another. Daphne, you and I have the last one.”

 

“Sounds great.” Smiled Daphne.

 

“There must be a way to save Brian some money by eliminating a room or two. More than two people can share a room,” said Deb.

 

“He insisted on things being this way. He really wants all of you to be comfortable and enjoy the weekend,” explained Cynthia. “The wedding will be in Oakes Garden Theatre. There are several different places where it can happen. There are some that are quite romantic like a little stone bridge over a pond, but Brian is thinking the part that overlooks the Falls. The official is booked for tomorrow afternoon. We will get there early enough to scope out the grounds and maybe change his mind. We are staying at the Sheraton tonight. Hopefully Justin will be having a good day because right after the ceremony we will drive to Toronto. Dinner will be at this gorgeous castle in the city called Casa Loma.”

 

“How long of a drive is it from Niagara Falls to Toronto?” Vic asked.

 

“Yeah, why aren’t we having the reception in Niagara Falls?” Mel added.

 

“It’s about an hour and a half. I think there are three reasons why he planned it that way. One, he wanted it to be special and this castle is amazing. Two, he wanted to get to a nicer hotel. Niagara Falls is a little low on style for Brian’s tastes. Three, if he actually does say all that he wants to, he will need some time before facing all of us. The drive will allow him to regroup.”

 

Debbie nodded and Jennifer smiled. “He’s really going to do this,” whispered Deb. “Not only is he going to do this, but he’s going to do it right.”

 

“DADDY!!” Gus squealed when he saw his father.

 

“Hey, Sonnyboy,” Brian smiled. He hurried to the jeep and put the pillows and blankets inside so he could lift his son into his arms.

 

“Jus?”

 

“He’s on his way down. Did Cynthia explain the plans?”

“Yes. Why Toronto?” Ted asked.

 

“You didn’t really expect me to spend a whole weekend in the tacky capital of the Northeast, did you?”

 

“I’ve been to Toronto, it’s great. There’s a lot to do for all of us. The gay scene is pretty good too,” smiled Vic.

 

“See, you can all find something to do and leave Justin and I alone.”

 

“JUS!” Gus squirmed to get out of his father’s arms to rush to him.

 

Justin gave the boy a big kiss on his tummy and the boy giggled uncontrollably. Looking over at the group, he smiled.

 

“Brian, why is everyone standing out here on the sidewalk? You should have invited them up.”

 

“Then you would have made coffee and we never would have gotten out of here.”

 

“If everyone is ready, let’s get going.”

 

“Wait, Michael’s not here,” said Justin, looking around.

 

“He’s not coming,” Brian replied quietly.

 

“What? Why? He’s your best friend.”

 

“Justin, just let it go, okay. I talked to him and told him that if he couldn’t stop undermining us then he wasn’t welcome. I guess, he decided he couldn’t do it.”

 

Justin noticed the sad flicker that went through Brian’s eyes. He put Gus down and went to him. Putting his arms around the taller man he offered the only thing he could, his support. “I’m sorry.”

 

Brian was a little uncomfortable about the public display, but decided he might as well get used to them. “Me too,” he admitted. “We’ll work it out in time. We always do, but he had to understand that… He just has to understand.”

 

“He will, in time.” Justin offered and held on tighter. Brian enjoyed the closeness for a minute more before he pulled away. “I don’t think we have to take all these cars.”

 

“Lindsay, Mel, why don’t you take my van. It has a built in car seat for Gus and it will be so much easier for you to have some room to move around.” Jennifer offered.

 

Everyone looked over to the little boy who was happily playing with Molly. “Does the babysitter come with the van or is she extra?” Mel laughed.

 

“If she wants to ride with Gus and you don’t mind that would be fine.”

 

“Okay, but where are you going to ride?”

 

“With us,” answered Deb.

 

A green car pulled up and Michael and Ben joined the group. “Sorry we’re late, but Michael had a hundred different things to say to the kid that is watching the store,” explained Ben, with a roll of his eyes.

 

“You made it,” said Brian to Michael cautiously.

 

“I wouldn’t miss it. I’m very happy for you.” He answered as he hugged his best friend. “For both of you,” he added and hugged Justin, too.

 

“We were just discussing who was going to ride with who,” said Emmett.

 

“Why don’t you and Ted come with us? My car is bigger and has more leg room in the back,” suggested Ben.

 

“Okay, that works,” smiled Emmett.

 

“Cynthia and Daphne, if you don’t mind traveling with a toddler, you can join us. There’s room in the van.”

 

“Sure.”

 

“It sounds like fun,” smiled Cynthia.

 

“She obviously hasn’t spent a lot of time in a car with Gus,” Brian whispered into Justin’s ear as he held him from behind. He was relieved that his best friend seemed to have accepted his choice.

 

“Okay, that’s enough talking. Let’s go.” Brian said. He opened the door for Justin to get in the back.

 

“What are you doing?”

 

“I thought you could sleep while I drove.”

“I’d rather sit with you so we can talk a little.”

 

“Whatever you want,” replied Brian, not sure this talking thing was a good idea.

 

Luggage was packed into the respective cars and soon three cars followed a jeep towards the highway.

 

Brian and Justin were having a quiet discussion about the wedding details. Justin’s stomach was starting to clench and he reached for the spring water.

 

“You okay?”

 

“Just thirsty.” After a few minutes his nausea grew worse and Brian realized what was happening.

 

“I’ll stop at the next rest stop.”

 

“No, I’m okay. I don’t want everybody to know. It will pass.”

 

Brian nodded. He knew that Justin hated for the others to realize how bad things were, especially his mother.

 

“Stop the car.”

 

“What?”

 

“STOP THE CAR,” groaned Justin. Brian slowed down and pulled to the shoulder of the highway. Justin got out of the car and ran several yards into the field. Brian grabbed a towel and the water and followed. Since the others were all following the jeep they all stopped too.

 

They watched as Justin violently emptied his stomach. Brian rubbed his back and waited for him to finish. He knew the others were watching him, but he didn’t care. He gave Justin a sip of the water and wiped his face. They waited a few minutes for the young man’s stomach to settle, then made their way to the jeep. Brian helped him into the back and made him as comfortable as possible. Before closing the door, he took a blanket and

unfolded it and then gently placed it in the jeep on his lover.

 

“He has a blanket in the jeep?” Michael asked, surprised.

 

“You should see the back seat. Brian set everything up so Justin would be comfortable. There’s everything he might need. It’s so sweet.”

 

Michael smiled. If he’s going to do this, I’m glad he’s doing it right, he thought.

 

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

 

The group waited as Brian checked himself and Justin into their suite. After signing the form he went over to where Justin was slumped drowsily on a couch. He knelt in front of him and said a few things. Then they both disappeared behind the elevator doors.

 

“Poor Sunshine,” sighed Debbie.

 

“He’ll be okay,” said Daphne. “He must have taken the nausea medication. It always knocks him out.”

 

“Right. He should be fine by dinner tonight. Now Cynthia, you mentioned scouting locations for the ceremony tomorrow. How close is this Gardens place?”

 

“It’s just outside the hotel.”

 

“How about we all take an hour to freshen up and then we can go check it out and even go see the Falls,” suggested Lindsay.

 

Everyone agreed and made their way to their rooms.

 

Brian was surprisingly impressed by the horseshoe falls. The power of it amazed him. He glanced over to Justin and knew what he was thinking. Moving behind the younger man, he folded his strong arms around him.

 

“I wish I could draw it,” sighed Justin.

 

“I know. You will someday. When you’re better we can come back.”

 

“On our anniversary, how romantic,” teased Justin.

 

“Keep it up smartass and we’ll come back a month before or a month after.”

 

Justin laughed.

 

Brian tightened the embrace. “You realize that a year from now you won’t be well enough to draw this either.”

 

“I know. I still don’t understand why you want to be around for the awful part. I still think I should stay in a rehabilitation centre or at Mom’s after the surgery.”

 

“You are coming home as soon as the doctors will release you. Do you understand? To your home. To our home. WITH ME! We are going to work through the hard times together. I know it’s going to be awful, but when we get passed it, maybe, just maybe, I’ll finally feel like I deserve to be happy with you.”

 

Justin leaned back and rested his head on Brian’s strong shoulder. “This would all be worth it if you could finally believe you deserve to be happy,” sighed Justin. They watched the water for several minutes.

 

“Brian, I’d really like to see where it’s going to happen.”

 

“Okay, we can walk back to the hotel that way.”

 

As they made their way into Rainbow Gardens they could see the group milling around the amphitheatre portion of the gardens.

 

“Maybe they didn’t see us. We can go straight to the hotel if you want,” Justin said quietly.

 

“I’m shocked Sunshine. Are you trying to avoid the family?”

 

“No, but I’m sure you would like to.”

 

“Actually, I think it’s better that you tell me what you think when they are around. You seem more comfortable to tell me the truth about things when they are with us. I know that’s as much my fault as yours, but it is something we are going to have to work on.”

 

“That’s not true. I don’t lie to you when we are alone,” Justin snapped.

 

“That’s not what I meant. You are more likely to tell me your opinions on things when there is someone there to back you up. Like when the wedding planners from hell showed up at the loft. I have a feeling you wouldn’t have expressed what you wanted if it had been just the two us talking about it.”

 

“That’s because it didn’t really matter. I’m not saying this to upset you, but the truth is you haven’t always wanted to hear or listen to my opinions.”

 

“I know. I admit it, but I do now and especially about this. Let’s go.” Justin looked surprised but pleased. He wondered if this new aspect of Brian would last. He could learn to like Brian listening and accepting his opinions.  Brian thought to himself. I have always heard you, Sunshine, but didn’t always acknowledge it.

 

They climbed the steps and joined the others. Jennifer went to Justin and hugged him. Brian walked to the carriage and looked at his sleeping son with a smile.

 

“Have you guys been looking around long?” Justin asked.

 

“Yes, we’ve seen every square foot of this park,” sighed Michael.

 

“I don’t remember you being this annoying as a child. When did that start?” Debbie asked, completely fed up with Michael’s complaining.

 

Justin laughed.

 

Brian straightened. “I am willing to listen to everyone’s ideas about where the ceremony should be. I was thinking over there on the stage because the Falls are a backdrop. Let’s take a look around and see what you all think. Especially you,” he said taking his lover’s hand in his.

 

“Brian Kinney would want to get married on a stage,” mumbled Ted.

 

“Unfortunately, for you the honeymoon won’t be for prying eyes,” Brian smiled.

 

“Brian,” Justin squealed blushing.

 

They followed the group and Cynthia led them to the stone bridge that crossed the pond. It was surrounded by beautiful trees and shrubs in many colors. Justin looked in all directions. It looks like it’s out of a fairy tale, he thought.

 

“I think this is the most beautiful spot. It’s so romantic,” sighed Cynthia. “It looks even better in person than the picture on the net.”

 

Brian tried to stop himself from rolling his eyes. “What do you think?” He asked giving Justin a nudge.

 

“I agree that it’s beautiful, but I would like to see everything before I decided which I like best.”

 

“Great idea. I like the little field over here with the trees all around. It’s simple but beautiful.”  Debbie explained.

 

They walked onto a grassy area. Brian walked around looking at the foliage and landscaping. This isn’t so bad, he thought. Justin walked the perimeter of the clearing and then looked to the group. “Whose next?”

 

“Lindsay, I’m sure you have a plenty of ideas, let’s hear them,” Brian said with an exaggerated sigh.

 

“I think the pergola is charming. It reminds me of Italy,” she offered as they walked into it.

 

Justin looked around it and sensed the old world feel to it. I would love to draw in here, he thought. The shadows and light are amazing. I can certainly see why an artist would choose this.

 

Brian watched Justin very carefully trying to figure out which site he would like best. I should know, he thought. I should know him well enough to know what he would choose. My best guess would be the stage because he will want to agree with me and go with the flow. If I hadn’t said anything, I bet he could have guessed my choice. He knows me so much better than I know him. That’s not right. I know some things, but I am starting to wonder if he really tells me what he’s feeling or what I want to hear.

 

Justin noticed the concerned look on Brian’s face and decided against the pergola immediately. “Any other ideas?”

 

“I like the stairway on the other side of this building thing,” said Emmett pointing in that direction.

 

“Let’s see it.”

 

Emmett led them through a pavilion and down a slightly sloping stairway. “I thought you two and the official could stand a few steps higher than the rest of us.”

 

“That makes sense,” said Ben, thinking aloud. Justin nodded acknowledging the point.

 

“Mom, I’m sure you have an idea.”

 

“Well honey, I thought the little gravel pathway over here was nice,” she began leading the way. “It widens here and we could all stand around the curve of it.”

 

Everyone without thought took a place on the curve and they fit perfectly. Not bad, thought Brian. Looking to his right, he realized that Daphne hadn’t suggested anything.

 

“Where do you think it should be, Brat?” He asked her.

 

“I like the field over there with the weeping trees. They remind me of the ones in the park by the houses where we used to live. They were like a magic hideout for us when we were kids.”

 

Justin looked over and smiled as the happy memories filled his thoughts.

 

“I had no idea there were so many choices,” said Justin, leading them back to the stage area.

 

“Well, what do YOU think?” Brian asked, scared that Justin would pick the stage just because that was his suggestion.

 

The group trailed behind the couple also thinking that Justin was bowing to Brian’s wishes.

 

Pulling Brian up on the stage, Justin asked. “Why did you think this was the right place?”

“It’s easy and I thought the Falls were a nice backdrop. I don’t have my heart set on the idea. I really want you to tell me which place you liked best.”

 

“Yeah, tell us who you agree with so we can go,” said Michael.

 

“Leave if you want to Michael, no one is forcing you to stay,” snapped Brian.

 

“Actually, I don’t agree with any of you. The bridge is too dreamlike. The field Debbie chose is too open. The sun will come into the pergola in weird directions and I don’t want us to have to squint to see each other and we are NOT wearing sunglasses. The stairs are cool, but everyone won’t fit on them. You’ll have to stand in front of each other. The field with the weeping trees is very cool and I want to have a picnic under there with you Daph, but this is about the future not the past so that’s out. Mom, I like the walkway but that spot has a lot of flowers and I don’t want to have an allergy attack.”

 

“So you agree on the stage of the amphitheatre?” Brian asked.

 

“No, I don’t like that because it is open to the street. Everyone will see us as they drive past.”

 

“But you eliminated all the other choices,” Ted said confused.

 

“I think the pavilion is perfect. It shields us from prying eyes and the sun. The stone arches have charm. It’s enclosed yet not dark.”

 

The group made their way up the stairs and through an archway. “It’s also close enough to the parking lot for a quick getaway,” Justin whispered in Brian’s direction. The older man smiled. A slight echo carried the message to everyone and they smiled knowing that Justin had kept Brian in mind when choosing the site.

 

“Another good point is it would be sheltered in case of rain,” offered Vic.

 

“I like it,” said Brian. He grasped Justin into his arms and leaned in to kiss him. Justin pulled away. Brian looked at him puzzled.

 

“You can kiss me here tomorrow,” Justin said with a smile.

 

Brian and Justin were lying in bed. Each of them drawing lazy circles on the others skin with their fingers.

 

“I wonder what everybody is doing tonight,” said Justin, as he traced the outline of one of Brian’s abdominal muscles.

 

“I made sure that everyone had fifty dollars to spend at the casino up the street.”

 

“What about Gus and Molly?”

 

“There’s a babysitting service here at the hotel,” answered Brian as his fingers swept over the pale skin of Justin’s back.

 

“I hope they win.”

 

“Yeah. Are you ready to tell me what had you so uneasy earlier?”

 

“I don’t know what you mean.”

 

“Justin, I watched you pace around and rearrange this room for an hour before I was finally able to distract you.”

 

“I guess I’m just nervous. Aren’t you?”

 

“Not really. I know this is the right thing to do.”

 

“When you proposed at Deb’s you said that some things will change and others won’t and that we’d have to talk about them. We haven’t really talked about them yet.”

 

“Justin, I don’t know if I can promise to be faithful. I know that’s what you want, but I just don’t know.” Brian let out a deep sigh.

 

“I know that and it doesn’t bother me as much as you think it does. I think where we made the mistake last time was that weird little game. It got out of hand. Can I just ask you that if you want to trick just don’t let me see it.”

 

“Okay, that’s fair. I promise the only people having sex in OUR home will be the two of us. I know that the way the others look at you when I trick bothers you so if I feel I have to I will go to the baths or something. I won’t do it in front of them either.”

 

“Thank you. I was a little concerned about that.”

 

“I want this to work. It will if we talk more, just like we’re doing now. If something is bothering you, you have to tell me. I will try and work on my communication skills where we are concerned. I know I have to tell you how I feel about you more. That’s why I wanted us to say our own vows.”

 

“I still don’t know about that. This is such a huge step for you. Why make it harder on yourself? We can say what we want to each other now or tomorrow night. You don’t have to do it in front of everyone. I know how hard that is for you.”

 

“No! All of that is why I have to do it tomorrow. Just to show you that I know how significant tomorrow is. I insist on the vows I have written and I’ll go first so you know I am not chickening out.”

 

“If you’re sure. If you don’t think you can do it just go with the standard vows and I will too. Now let’s get some sleep. We have a big day tomorrow,” said Justin pulling the blankets up around them.

 

“Okay.”

 

“I can’t wait to see what you have planned for the dinner and honeymoon,” sighed Justin as snuggled into Brian.

 

Gus was the first one to notice Brian and Justin walk into the hotel restaurant.

 

“JUS!” He squealed.

 

Justin freed him from the high chair and proceeded to chase him around the tables. Molly joined in and soon all three were laughing.

 

Brian took a seat across from Jennifer and next to the now empty high chair.

 

“Good morning,” she smiled.

 

“Morning,” he mumbled in response.

 

“He looks like he’s feeling good today,” she said watching her son play with the boy that would soon be his stepson. That had never occurred to her before. She sat in stunned silence.

 

“Yeah, thankfully he’s having a pretty good day so far. I just hope it lasts.” He turned back to the table and noticed the look on the woman’s face. He scanned the others at the table. They were all lost in conversation or busy eating.

 

“Jen, is something wrong?” Some of the others looked to her.

 

“I just realized that in a few hours, Justin is going to be a stepfather. I don’t know why, but I’d never really thought of it before.”

 

“You know… that makes you a grandmother,” Brian teased with a smile.

 

“OH MY GOD, you’re right,” she gasped.

 

There were a few chuckles around the table.

 

“Jennifer, we couldn’t be happier that Justin is now officially going to be a part of Gus’ life. He’s wonderful with him and I just hope that my son grows up to be as wonderful as yours.”

 

Tears formed in the older woman’s eyes. “I hope so too. I just hope it’s an easier journey for you two,” she said looking at Lindsay and Mel. “Gus already has better parents than Justin ever did.”

 

“What are you talking about?” Mel said. “We hope to be as strong, accepting, and brave as you are.”

 

Jennifer laughed sadly. “Please don’t use me as your role model for motherhood. I don’t deserve it.”

 

“I was so young emotionally when I got married. He was conceived on our honeymoon. I was only twenty-two when he was born. I had no experience with children and he was a challenge for me from the time I went into labor. He never stopped as a child. It was a struggle to keep his mind occupied. By the time he was in the second grade, he was so far ahead of the other students that he hated school. At my wits’ end, I enrolled him in art classes. He liked to draw and I hoped he would just stop for five minutes. His talent turned out to be a gift not only to Justin, but to me as well. I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. He was always exploring. I couldn’t even begin to guess how many times I had to rush him to the emergency room. Art was our salvation. He ended up in a class with high school kids and loved it. From then on, I made sure there were art supplies ready wherever we went.”

 

“See you helped him find his life’s passion,” said Lindsay.

 

“Yeah! Well, I also let my asshole husband throw him out of the house. I should have thrown Craig out. I’ll never forgive myself for being so weak.”

 

“Mom, it’s okay. It all worked out for the best,” said Justin, as he joined the group and hugged his mother.

 

“I know it did sweetie, but I failed you so profoundly, I can hardly look at myself in the mirror. I took the easy way out and sent you to Brian. Twice. There’s no excuse for that. The day your father slapped you across the face is the day I should have stood up. I’m so sorry Justin.”

 

“Mom, it’s true that your lack of support hurt at the time, but the truth is, I never would have gotten close to everyone here. I firmly believe my life is better because of this new family I have. So don’t regret a thing. I don’t.”

 

“Thank you, sweetheart. The fact that you and Brian are making things work makes me feel better. Maybe abandoning you on his doorstep wasn’t as wrong as it felt.”

 

Brian smiled and headed for the breakfast buffet. He poured Justin a glass of milk. He placed a bowl of cereal and toast in front of Justin who attacked it while talking to Daphne about something Brian couldn’t follow. Before he knew it, Justin had finished the food and was picking from Brian’s plate. Lindsay noticed that Brian watched Justin intently and then excused himself. She followed him into the lobby.

 

“Brian, are you okay?”

 

Startled, Brian spun around and the tears in his eyes were immediately apparent.

 

“Brian?”

 

“It’s okay, Lindsay. Go have breakfast.”

 

“If you are getting nervous let’s talk because I swear to God if you back out of this today I will personally cut off your balls and make them into a necklace for Mel for our anniversary.”

 

“She’d love that,” smirked Brian.

 

“Brian?”

 

“If you must know, it’s been a very long time since he’s eaten anywhere near as much food as he just did. It’s like he was before he got sick. We have to get back to that. He has to get better.”

 

“This trip is a huge move in making that happen. But are you sure that writing your own vows is a good idea?”

 

“Why?”

 

“Have you written anything down? I think it’s a wonderful idea, but let’s be honest, you’re not the best at expressing your feelings.”

 

“I know that you are thinking that he’s going to say all this romantic stuff and then I’ll freeze and he’ll be embarrassed that he said it all and I didn’t.”

 

“Well…”

 

“The thing is, he wouldn’t be embarrassed. He would understand. At least until the rest of you start to feel sorry for him and make him feel bad.”

Lindsay nodded, acknowledging that the ‘family’s’ interference has often been a problem to the relationship.

 

“There’s no need to worry,” Brian continued. “I’m going to say my vows first. I have thought a lot about what I want to say. I am finally going to tell him how I feel.”

 

Lindsay smiled and hugged the man she would always love on some level and they returned to the restaurant and the loves of their lives.

 

Brian stepped out of the large shower in his suite’s black marble bathroom. He could hear the guys arguing and smiled. He didn’t think it was necessary for them to get ready separately, but Lindsay had insisted that they would only make each other more nervous. He wondered if Justin was getting out of the shower too. He thought of small droplets of water running over beautiful light skin while looking at himself in the mirror.

 

“Stop it Kinney! This isn’t the time for that. Later,” he said to his reflection.

 

“Later,” he repeated slowly as he remembered all the times they had exchanged that particular send off. Goodbye was too permanent for them. Later fit because deep down they both knew they would always have a later.

 

With a towel wrapped around his waist he left the bathroom, went through the bedroom and into the sitting area of the suite. Michael was eating Fruit Loops. Ben and Vic were sharing a newspaper. Ted and Emmett seemed to be arguing over the remote for the television. Ted wanted CNN and Emmett a trashy talk show.

 

“But Teddy, I never know when I am going to recognize someone from Hazelhurst on that show.”

 

“Why doesn’t that surprise me?” Brian laughed.

 

Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked at Brian.

 

“Do you need something?” Ted asked.

 

“Did you forget something and need one of us to go to a store?” Ben wondered.

 

“Are you hungry? I could order you some food,” offered Emmett.

 

“Are you nervous? Do you want to talk?” Michael asked.

 

“No. I’m fine. I have everything I need and no, I’m not nervous or hungry.”

 

“Then what are you doing?” Michael asked, confused.

 

“Since there is plenty of time, I wanted to dry off a bit before I started to get dressed. I hate it when my shirt sticks to my back. At home, I’d be completely naked but since you guys are here I opted for the towel.”

 

“Don’t mind us,” Vic said with a mischievous grin.

 

“So you aren’t nervous?” Michael questioned.

 

“No, not at all. Actually, I’m a little surprised, but I know this is one of the two best decisions I have ever made.”

 

“What’s the other?” Wondered Ted.

 

“Gus.” He answered simply.

 

There was a knock at the door and Brian went to answer it leaving three very confused men. “The boys” had witnessed so much of Brian being Brian “Fucking” Kinney that it was hard to reconcile their history and knowledge of this man to the man that had slowly appeared over the last few months. The improvement was unmistakable and they were very happy for him, but it was still hard to believe. It didn’t surprise Justin. He didn’t base his knowledge on past history. He had always seen the real Brian Kinney from the start and was happy to see Brian allowing himself to be freed from others perceptions of him and his own need for them to have those perceptions.

 

Brian opened the door and found Cynthia standing before him in a beautiful flowered seafoam-colored dress.

 

“You look beautiful, Cyn,” smiled Brian.

 

“So do you,” said Cynthia, looking at Brian’s bare chest.

 

“Do you have the …”

 

“Right here,” she answered, pointing to her hand.

 

“Great. Have you talked to Justin? Is he feeling okay?”

 

“I just saw him, he looks amazing. I love the suit you picked out for him and the tie really brings out the color of his eyes.”

 

“I know. It’s really perfect for him.”

 

“So shouldn’t you be getting dressed? Justin and Daphne just went down to talk under the weeping pine trees.”

 

“Why? Is he nervous?”

 

“Not that I could tell. Go get dressed,” said Cynthia pushing Brian into the suite. “I am going to go make sure there is someone to meet the official.”

“Thanks Cyn,” said Brian, closing the door behind him. “Gonna get dressed now,” he said to the guys as he went to the bedroom.

 

About ten minutes later, Brian emerged from the bedroom. Even though the other four men were used to seeing Brian dressed up and looking good, they stopped what they were doing and stared.

 

“All ready?” Ben asked.

 

“Yeah. I just have to take this stuff down to the jeep first. We are leaving right from the ceremony,” he said motioning to the luggage.

 

“We can do that for you,” said Ben, grabbing the luggage.

 

“Is all of Justin’s stuff packed too? Because I can do that for you,” offered Emmett.

 

“It’s all done, except for what he took to get ready. Can you go make sure that they all remembered to pack?”

 

“Sure. I’ll meet you guys down in the park.”

 

“I’ll take these out to the jeep for you,” said Ben, leaving with the suitcases.

 

Ted looked around trying to think of an excuse to get him out of the room too, thinking that the best friends would want to have a minute alone.

 

Sensing Ted’s unease Brian stated. “Ted, it’s okay. Stay. I’ve been meaning to ask you, do you think I am making a mistake? Tell me the truth. I know you can be objective.”

 

“No, I think you are the luckiest bastard I have ever met. Justin is the perfect match for you because he doesn’t put up with your bullshit. At least not when he’s healthy. By the way, the rest of us are here to make sure you don’t shovel too much of it at him while he’s sick.”

 

Ted turned to lead them out of the suite, but stopped. “We’re also all going to be here for you. When you need a break, we’ll sit with him for you. Or if you just need a place to vent your fears and frustrations about all of this, we will all be there for that too.”

“Thanks Theodore.” Brian took a deep breath. “Okay, let’s go.” When they were in the hall, Brian reached into his coat pocket for the key card with his right hand and stopped.

 

“Oh my God, I almost forgot,” he said as he tried to untie the leather straps on his cowrie shell bracelet. “Fuck! I need a pair of scissors.”

 

“What? Why?” Michael asked.

 

“I need to get this thing off,” Brian snapped.

 

“Why?”

 

“What time is it?” Brian asked, ignoring the question.

 

“We have to go. There’s only 15 minutes left and you still have to checkout,” said Ted.

 

Brian looked at them with a look they hadn’t seen before. “Please help me get this off,” he said desperately. “I can’t be late. You know what Justin will think. What they’ll all think.”

 

“I’m sure the front desk will have some scissors,” Michael reassured him.

 

“Okay, you’re right. Thanks Mikey, I guess I wasn’t thinking.”

 

“Let’s go,” said Michael softly, with a reassuring hand on Brian’s shoulder.

 

“I can’t believe you are getting married,” said Daphne. “I really thought that when you came out, I would at least get married first.”

 

“What can I say Daph, you have been trying to beat me at things for over fifteen years now and I always win,” he laughed.

 

“Asshole.”

 

“It must be incredibly frustrating for you,” he laughed even harder.

 

“A little,” she sighed.

 

“You will graduate from university before me.”

 

The statement hung in the air. Neither of them knowing what else to say.

 

“Jus, things are going to be okay. I am considering taking a semester off when you have the surgery. I could help out. I felt so completely helpless last time.”

 

“I can’t let you do that,” said Justin.

 

“It’s not up to you. Brian will have to work at least some of the time and we both know that Debbie and your mother will drive you crazy. I haven’t talked to my advisor yet, but we’ll see if I can make it work. I want to be there for you.”

 

“I really appreciate it. What time is it?”

 

“Almost time. Are you nervous?”

 

“A little. I hope that Brian is able to say what he wants to. It would be nice if he says it in front of everyone so they would all finally understand, but I really don’t care. I know how he feels and saying it to me when we are alone would be enough. I know he will be mad at himself if he doesn’t do it. Maybe it was a bad idea.”

 

 “I think everyone, including the two of you will be surprised at what he says and how easily he does it.” Daphne said with a smile. “Let’s go get you married.”

 

Daphne pulled Justin up and took his hand. They crossed the grass to the gravel pathway and headed for the pavilion.

 

Everyone was waiting for the ceremony to begin. Brian, Michael and Ted walked through one of the arches of the pavilion on one side just as Justin and Daphne came through the opposite arch. The two men smiled at each other.

 

“Are we ready to start? My name is Claudia Bretton, I will be performing the ceremony.”

 

“Justin Taylor,” replied the younger man, never taking his eyes off of Brian. “I am ready whenever you are.”

 

“Brian Kinney, and I am also absolutely ready.” He said, not taking his eyes from Justin’s.

 

Ms. Bretton smiled.  “We have gathered here today, to witness the marriage of Brian Kinney and Justin Taylor.”

 

 

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