A Child's Needs

Part 5

 


Justin woke up early Saturday morning. He had a lot he needed to get done at the office. He felt pleased with himself this morning; he felt like he was finally getting things accomplished. He had found a new home for Tommy and the girls. They could finally live together under one roof again. He also typed up his report for the Kinney case. He stayed up most of the night finishing the report at home before emailing it to his office computer. He couldn't wait to close the books on this one and allow Brian peace of mind that his home was no longer threatened. He would have done it yesterday, but some of his other cases needed to be looked into first.

Justin entered his office, and tossed his jacket and car keys on the desk, as he headed straight to the file cabinet. He took out Tommy's and Brian's files. He flipped through Brian's file as he booted up his computer. Justin read over the notes he jotted down here and there. The picture the Peterson painted of this man was so off the mark Justin could not help but laugh.

"Brian is going to be happy he won't have to deal with me anymore." Justin said. He felt a twinge of sadness at the thought of not seeing Brian anymore.

He was in the middle of logging onto his computer when his cell phone rang.

"Hello."

"Is this Justin Taylor?"

Justin barely recognized the voice on the other line. It sounded as if the person was crying.

"Is this Mrs. Gonzales?"

"Yes…Justin it's me…Tommy's…"

Justin's body went cold. He knew instantly something bad had happened, but he needed to have her say it. "What happened…where's Tommy?"

"I'm at the hospital. Tommy was hurt last night…he's not waking up."

Justin closed his eyes as he registered Mrs. Gonzales words. "Not waking up…what do mean…what happened, how was he hurt?"

"He was shot….someone shot him….Please come."

"I'm on my way."

Justin disconnected the call. He grabbed his car keys off the desk, and made his way to his car. He realized when he was behind the wheel he hadn't asked which hospital. He took a guess and pointed the car toward the city hospital. It was close to the neighborhood where Tommy lived.

Justin found a parking spot on the street across from the hospital. He didn't bother to stop and feed the meter, if he got a ticket so be it. He ran into the emergency entrance and headed straight for the nurses desk.

"May I help you?" The young nurse asked as Justin approached.

"I'm looking for Thomas Marlowe; he's a12 year old boy who was bought in with a gunshot wound."

The nurse looked up the name on her computer screen. "Marlowe… he's just come out of surgery…he's in ICU. I'm afraid only family is allowed up there."

"I'm his family." Justin said defiantly.

"Sir I'm sorry, but…."

"No buts, I'm the closest thing he has to family and I want to see him now." Justin raised his voice at the young nurse.

"Fine sir, ICU is on the 3rd floor."

Justin stepped off the elevator on the 3rd floor. He didn't see Mrs. Gonzales when he stepped on the floor. He looked toward the front desk.

"Hello I need to speak with Tommy Marlowe's doctor."

"I'm his doctor." A young black woman looked up from the chart she was reading and faced Justin. "I'm Dr. Jarvis, how can I help you?"

"How is he?"

"I'm sorry I can only give out information to immediate family members." She said matter of fact.

"I'm his social worker; he has no immediate family aside from his foster mother and two younger sisters. Where is he? I need to see him."

"Sir I'm sorry, I will need to see some identification."

Justin felt around in his pockets, he ran out of the office without grabbing his jacket, and he ended up leaving his wallet. "I left the office as soon as Mrs. Gonzales called me, I left my wallet there."

"I apologize sir, but I won't be able to let you in to the ICU. Only family is allowed."

"Fine, fine." Justin said trying to maintain his patience. "Could you please tell me how he is, and what happened?"

The doctor could see the genuine concern on Justin's face. "It seems Tommy and another young man were victims of a drive-by shooting. The other person was grazed by a bullet to his leg, he's gone home already. Tommy wasn't so lucky, he is still unconscious. The bullet hit him in the upper shoulder."

"Wait a minute. He's in a coma from a bullet wound to the shoulder?"

"No he's in a coma because the force of the bullet entering his body knocked him to the ground, causing him to bang his head on a rock. He just missed hitting his temple. Right now he is in a deep coma; he's not showing much brain activity. It's possible he may be brain dead when and if he ever wakes up." Dr. Jarvis spoke as if she was talking about some unfeeling object, and not the life of a 12 year old boy.

Justin could not stop the tears that were welling up in his eyes threatening to fall. "So you're telling me that this beautiful little boy might never wake, but if he does he won't be the same loving, intelligent kid he was before."

Dr. Jarvis lowered her eyes "I'm sorry Mr. Taylor."

"Yeah…me too… And, I can't see him?"

"Again I'm sorry, only immediate family is allowed in the ICU." She repeated again. "And because of the nature of the crime, I would need to see identification even if he was in a room....it's hospital policy. Go home and tomorrow, possibly tonight, he may be moved to a step down unit. You might be able to visit him then.

Justin nodded his head in frustration. "Could you just let Mrs. Gonzales know I was here and I will be back." Justin walked toward the elevator and hit the down button. He felt so helpless as he climbed into his car. He drove toward his office to get his wallet as he thought about Tommy lying in that hospital bed. Justin was so close to finding him a new home away from the kids he was hanging out with. A place where he could live like a family with his sisters again.

Justin drove as his mind wandered to Tommy, the tears started to build up to where he could no longer control them. Justin pulled the car over to the curb, he sat in the car as the tears fell. He wiped his eyes and took a deep breath. Justin looked out the car window before starting the engine again. He noticed he was near the park where he had taken the kids the weekend before.

He started the car again and drove a few blocks and stopped the car right outside the park. Justin got out of the car, and walked over to a bench and sat down. He thought about last weekend and hanging out with Tommy and the girls. He thought about having to tell his sisters about Tommy. He wasn't sure what to tell them or how to tell them. Justin leaned back on the bench and closed his eyes. His shoulders shook as he cried softly to himself.

 

******
 

Brian got up from the sofa where he was reading over some files Ted dropped off from the office. He walked into the kitchen to get Gus a glass of juice. Gus was feeling much better today. Brian decided he would take him into the office with on Monday, at least for half a day. He loved his son, but being held up in the house together for a week was making them both a bit stir crazy, and besides he missed not going into the office. Brian walked back into the living room and handed Gus the glass, who was playing with his toys on the living room rug.

"I'll start lunch in a little while. Do want anything in particular."

"Hotdogs!" Gus said with big grin.

"It figures, you are so going to turn into a hot dog one of these days." Brian said shaking his head.

"Daddy that's silly, little boys can't turn into hot dogs." Gus handed the glass back to his father and continued to play with his toys.

Brian chuckled at his serious expression. "Yeah I guess not." He said as he took the glass from Gus. Brian was about to settle back down on the sofa when the doorbell rang.

Brian was surprised to see Debbie on his doorstep, she was just there two nights ago to make sure they were well fed.

"What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at the diner?"

Debbie pushed her way into the house "There was scheduling screw up and I ended up with the day off."

Brian looked at her curiously. "Deb you do the scheduling for the diner."

"Well imagine that, I screwed up. Well count your blessing kiddo; I screwed up in your favor."

"How do you figure?"

Debbie placed her hand lovingly on Brian's shoulder. "I figured you could use a break from being super dad. I know you wouldn't have wanted to leave him when he was first injured, but he is doing better and you need a break. Go out and enjoy the day. I have no (PLAN)plans all day but to sit and play with my grandson."

Brian smiled at his chosen mother. "Are you sure?"

"I'm positive. But only under one condition."

"What's that?" Brian said suspiciously.

Debbie leaned in close so that Gus wouldn't hear her. "You go out and get yourself good and well fucked."

"You got it Ma." Brian said cheerfully. "Gus, Grandma Deb is here." Brian walked into the living room with Debbie behind him.

Gus came over and gave Debbie a one armed hug.

"Gus, honey how about you and me hang out today and kick daddy out the house."

Gus nodded his head enthusiastically.

"Well I know when I'm not wanted." Brian said pretending to be hurt. "I'll grab my keys and be on my way." Brian walked over and carefully picked Gus up. "You really don't mind my leaving for a little while?" He asked seriously, he would stay if Gus wanted him to.

"Just come back Daddy." Gus said as he lay his free hand on Brian shoulder.

"I always will." Brian said reassuringly. Even though Gus never said out loud, Brian knew he had a fear that he could loose his Daddy the same way he lost his Mommies. Whenever he could, Brian wanted to reassure Gus that he was not going to leave him.

Brian kissed Gus on his forehead before placing him back on his feet. He gave Debbie a kiss on her cheek and thanked her for watching Gus. Brian walked out to his jeep and climbed in. He took in a deep breath and smiled, he felt like a kid being given permission to stay out past curfew. He didn't know what he wanted to do first. He thought about going to the office then changed his mind. He started the jeep and drove toward his loft.

"Debbie said get good and well fucked, I can't disappoint the lady." He said out loud.

As Brian drove toward his loft, his mind was going over the old websites he used for getting tricks. He tried to remember which ones offered the best selections. He turned down his old street but the only parking spot available was in front of the park across from his building. Brian got out of the car and was about to cross over when he spotted a familiar car parked a few spaces ahead of his near the park.

He recognized Justin's' car immediately. Brian figured Justin must be here with Tommy and the girls. He started to continue on his way toward the loft, but curiosity got the better of him, he was drawn toward the park. Brian walked in and spotted Justin sitting on the bench alone. His shoulders were slumped and his head was down. Brian looked around the park but there was no sign of the kids. He walked toward the bench to see if Justin was okay. As Brian approached, Justin raised his head up. Justin's eyes were closed and his facial expression was filled with anguish. He stood in front of Justin and gently said his name.

Justin opened his eyes and was startled to find himself looking up into the face of Brian Kinney.

"Justin" Brian said again even more softly. He felt a twinge in his heart looking into Justin's sad blue eyes.

Justin could not speak. He continued to look at Brian as if he was a mirage.

"Justin what's wrong? Why are you crying?" Brian looked around the park. He didn't see the children. "Are the kids with you?"

Justin shook his head from side to side. "No, no kids." He managed to get out before he started to cry again.

Brian sat on the bench beside him. Instinctively he took Justin into his arms and held him. "Everything is going to be okay." he said soothingly. "Just tell me what happened."

Justin buried his head against Brian's chest. He leaned against him a few minutes until he was able to talk again.

"I let him down… I was supposed to protect him and I let him down."

"Who?"

"Tommy." Justin said in a whisper.

"What happened to Tommy?"

"He's in the hospital, he won't wake up….and if he does he may be brain dead…..He's just a kid."

Brian continued to hold Justin in his arms. He looked around the park, even though it wasn't crowed, the few people who were passing through gave them curious looks.

"Come on let's go." Brian loosened his hold on Justin and stood up. He helped Justin to his feet as well.

"Where are we going?"

"I used to live across the street from here. I still own the loft apartment. We can go there and talk….okay?"

Justin nodded his head. Brian took him by the hand as he led him out of the park and across the street to his loft.

Brian slid the door open to his loft and stood back for Justin to enter.

"Have seat on the sofa, I'll get you a drink." Brian walked to the fridge, all he had was water. He had liquor but he wasn't sure if Justin would want that. Brian took out two bottles of water and walked back over to the sofa. Justin sat straight up trying not to cry.

Brian handed Justin the water, he sat down next to him as Justin took a small sip and placed the bottle on the coffee table.

"You want to talk about it." Brian asked quietly.

"Not much to say" Justin leaned back against the couch.

"Okay. Well if you want to talk I'm here." Brian said as he leaned back as well. He could see Justin fighting his emotions, but he didn't want to push him.

They sat quietly for a moment, before Justin began speaking again. "I was supposed to be his protector. My job was to take these kids from harms way and make them safe. I took him from one bad situation and placed him into another bad situation."

"I don't quite understand. What happened to Tommy?"

"He was shot. He shot in a drive by shooting. I knew the kids he was hanging out with were no good. I knew he was hanging out all hours of the night doing who knows what."

"Shot…man, he didn't seem like that type of kid to me, he seemed to level headed."

"He is very level headed, but he just hung out with the wrong crowd. I was his social worker and I failed him by not getting him out of there. I told him I didn't like those boys; that they seemed like trouble. He said they were his friends. Now he's in the hospital fighting for his young life." Justin eyes welled with tears again as he spoke. "Brian I don't know if I can do this any more. You don't know what I've seen. How parents can treat their own flesh and blood, and then to think you're saving a child and they end up probably being better off where you left them." Justin began to sob again as he thought of Tommy "The hospital won't even let me see him. Only family is allowed in the ICU…. I am his family."

Brian reached over and pulled Justin to him. He hated seeing him so upset. What happened to Tommy was not his fault.

"Justin it's not your fault, you can't blame yourself. If it was a drive-by, Tommy probably wasn't the intended victim. He was probably just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Right?"

Justin didn't answer. He leaned into the comfort of Brian's embrace. He needed the feel of Brian strong arms around him. He needed to be comforted right now.

"I promise you Tommy will be okay." Brian said soothingly.

"You can't make that promise, Brian. You don't know if he's going to be okay."

Brian pulled Justin back from him to look him in the face. "You need him to be okay, he will be okay. You have to think that way."

Justin looked up at Brian. He flashed him a semblance of a smile. "Thank you" he said, his voice hoarse from crying. On impulse Justin lifted his face and pressed a soft kiss on Brian's lips. Justin lips were wet from his tears, Brian didn't seem to mind. He slowly licked his lips and tasted the salty tears Justin left behind.

"I want to kiss you again." Justin said quietly.

"Justin you're upset and you need comforting right now. I would be real ass to take advantage of your vulnerability."

"You wouldn't be taking advantage." Justin looked up at Brian. His beautiful blue eyes large and shiny from a mixture of tears and wanting.

Brian could not hold back, he lowered his head, covering Justin mouth with a very gentle kiss. He felt Justin's soft tongue brush against his lips asking for entry. Brian obliged. The kiss was slow and unforced. It was different from their kiss in Babylon. That was a kiss of animal lust.

Brian broke the kiss and pulled back. "Justin, this isn't what you want, you're upset and you need comfort." Brian voiced was low and ragged, he wanted nothing more but to lay Justin on his back and bury himself deep inside of him.

Brian stood up from the sofa. And walked over to the mini bar, and poured himself a drink. 'Thank the Lord liquor doesn't go bad' he thought to himself.

Justin watched as Brian downed his drink in one gulp. He stood up from the sofa and walked toward the door. "Thank you for being here for me Brian, but I guess I should go now."

"Are you going to the hospital?"

"No, not yet. I… he wouldn't have been moved from ICU yet, and they won't let me see him until then. I'll just go home and wait."

"Stay here Justin. You're not in any condition to be alone. Stay here, I'll order some food and we'll talk, okay."

Justin really didn't want to sit in his apartment alone right now. "Okay" he said as he made his way back to the sofa and sat down. "But you don't have to order any food, I don't think I could eat.

"How about a drink?"

Yeah…yes, a drink would be good."

Brian fixed Justin a drink a little bit weaker than what he was drinking and handed it to him. He sat back on the couch next him.

"How is Gus doing?"

"Good, Debbie is watching him right now. I think I'll take him into the office with me on Monday, only for a half day to see how he feels. And then maybe to school on Tuesday."

Justin looked down at the drink in his hand. "Could I use your phone, I'm not sure where I left my cell phone. I need to call Matt."

Brian felt a slight tingle of jealousy. It never occurred to him Justin might be involved. "Sure." Brian gestured toward the phone sitting on the end table. "There's one in the bedroom if you need privacy."

"No this is fine" Justin walked over to the end table, he picked up the phone and dialed his supervisor's cell phone number. "Hi Matt, I'm sorry to bother you at home."

"Justin, are you okay."

"No, I'm not okay. Tommy Marlowe is in the hospital. He was involved in a drive by shooting last night or early this morning."

"Justin that's horrible. Will he be okay?"

"I don't know." Justin felt the tears starting to come again. "I couldn't see him while he was in ICU. The doctor said he hit his head when he went down, there is a possibility he may be brain dead."

"Justin I'm really saddened to hear that, I know you care about Tommy. Will you be okay?"

Justin shrugged his shoulders. "I'm not the one in the hospital Matt."

"Do you want me to come by your apartment? My wife took the kids out shopping so I can swing by."

"No I'm not home I'm with… I'm with a friend."

"Good, good. Listen, keep me posted on his condition. We'll figure out how to tell his sisters later. You take Monday off if you need it okay."

"Okay. Goodbye."

Justin stood with the phone in his hands. "We'll figure out how to tell the girls…." He repeated as he shook his head sadly.

Brian came up behind Justin and took the receiver from his hands and hung it up. Justin leaned back against his chest. Brian wrapped his arms protectively around him.

"He told me to take Monday off if I needed it."

"Matt is your boss?

"Yeah, he's my supervisor. He said we'll figure out how to tell the girls." Justin face crumbled, he twisted around in Brian's arms and rested his cheek against Brian's chest. He could feel his heart beat beneath the thin sweater he was wearing. Justin wrapped his arms around Brian's waist and pulled him closer, he felt Brian tighten his hold as well.

Brian kissed the top of Justin's head. Justin raised his head and Brian kissed him on his lips. Justin brought his hands up to wrap them around Brian's neck. They both knew there was no stopping this time.

Brian quietly led Justin to the sofa. They slowly undressed each other. Brian lowered Justin to the sofa.

"I'll be right back." He whispered as he headed to his bedroom. Brian returned quickly with a blanket and other supplies.

"I'm not cold." Justin said when he saw the blanket.

"Just in case." Brian answered back as he straddled Justin beautifully naked body.

Justin reached up to run his hands across Brian's body.

Justin was surprised that Brian took him into his mouth without a condom. He didn't move when Justin screamed out he was coming. Brian took in and swallowed every drop.

Brian reached for the condom and handed it to Justin. Justin slid it on to Brian's cock and slathered it with lube. Brian placed Justin's legs on his shoulders. Justin took in a deep breath as he felt Brian enter him. Brian moaned from the sensations shooting through his body. A short while later Brian shot his load. Justin was amazed that he was able to shoot off a second time so soon after the first. The men lay on the sofa, Brian moved slightly to the side as not to suffocate Justin. After a few moments Brian felt Justin shudder. He reached for the blanket and covered the two of them with it.

"It's a drafty loft, I lived here a number of years and you get cold quick when your'e naked."

Justin chuckled. "So I see."

"You're smiling." Brian saw the smile fade away. "No Justin don't, Tommy wouldn't want you sitting here crying all day.

"You're right. And I'm going to think positive. He's going to be okay. You know he asked me if there was something between us. He could sense the attraction between us from the start.

"Smart kid. What did you tell him?"

"I told him that it was none of his business, and that you didn't even like me. He didn't buy it." Justin smiled "Did you know he was trying to teach me how to talk slang."

"No, I didn't know." Brian stood up and padded naked into the kitchen to take a food menu from the draw. "How about I order us some food and you can tell me all about Tommy, Tasha and Tonya. I'll even swap you a few Gus stories." He walked back toward the sofa and picked up the phone.

"Deal."

After the food arrived the time passed quickly as Brian and Justin spoke about the kids. Justin even gave Brian a lesson on some of the slang words Tommy taught him.

"So what you're saying is cheese, or cheddar is another way of saying money."

"Yep."

"Interesting. And whip or hoopti is a car."

"Yeah, 'whip' is a nice car and 'hoopti' is like a broken down just to get around type car."

"Justin you are so hip."

"Fo shizzo."

"I don't know what you said but you look damn sexy saying it."

Justin smirked at Brian. Brian could see he looked exhausted.

"Come on." He said as he helped Justin to his feet. He picked up the blanket and wrapped it around him.

"Where are we going?"

"To get some rest." Brian led Justin into the bedroom, he pulled back the covers and Justin slid into the bed, he pushed over so that Brian could join him. Brian gathered him into his arms. "Try to close your eyes for a little while."

Justin rested his head on Brian's shoulder; he didn't realize just how tired he was until he actually allowed himself to relax.

 

******
 

Brian slipped from under the covers and crept into the living room to use the phone. Justin was still sleeping and he didn't want to wake him by using the phone in the bedroom.

Brian stood naked in the kitchen as he dialed his home number.

"Kinney residence."

"Hey Debbie it's me."

"Hey kiddio! Enjoying your time away?"

"Um yeah, actually that's one of the reasons why I'm calling."

"What's up?"

"First, how's sonny boy?"

"He's fine. We're having a ball without you." Debbie said with a laugh. "Seriously he's fine. You want to talk to him?"

"Not just yet. Debbie I need a favor. A friend needs me right now and I was wondering if you could stay with Gus overnight."

"A friend huh…" Debbie thought for a moment. "Would this friend be about lets say 5' 9" blond hair, blue eyes, and a sunshine smile that lights up a room?"

Brian shook his head. Debbie never ceased to amaze him, how in the world did she know he was with Justin. Brian did not confirm her guess; he knew if he did she would have a million more questions.

"I can't go into it right now, but I really need you to do me this favor."

"Of course Brian; but I want answers later."

"Of course you do…thanks Debbie. You can put sonny boy on now."

Brian talked to Gus for a little while before hanging up the phone. He walked back into the bedroom hoping to slip into bed without waking Justin. He walked up the stairs and noticed Justin laying there watching him.

"I thought you would be still asleep."

"No I'm awake."

Brian sat on the edge of the bed. "Do you want to call the hospital?"

"Yes." Justin said quietly.

Brian reached for the phone on the night stand by the bed. He handed it to Justin. Justin got the number for the hospital from information. He called and asked for Dr. Jarvis.

"Dr. Jarvis." "Dr. Jarvis, this Justin Taylor. I was calling to see if there were any changes in Tommy Marlowe's condition."

"Mr. Taylor. I'm sorry, but no. There is no change."

"Will I be able to see him tonight?"

"Mr. Taylor, it would be better if you come in the morning. He will be in the ICU for the remainder of the evening. He'll be moved to a room in the morning."

"Thank you."

Justin disconnected the call. From the look on his face Brian knew the news wasn't good.

"No change?"

"No. And I can't see him until tomorrow." Justin sat up in the bed. He swung his legs over as if to get out of the bed. "I guess I should get going?"

"Why?"

Justin looked at Brian in surprise. "I don't want to be a burden on you, and I'm sure you are in a hurry to get home."

"No, Debbie is watching Gus. Besides you shouldn't be alone."

"I don't want to be alone tonight." Justin said sadly.

"Then it's settled, you are staying here… with me."

"Brian." Justin said quietly.

"Yeah."

"Thank you." Justin leaned forward and kissed Brian on his cheek.

Brian looked at Justin and grinned. "Lay down, we'll go visit Tommy tomorrow."

"Okay." Justin lay back on the bed as ordered. His heart was hurting over Tommy, but he could not help the warm feeling he felt from having Brian taking care of him.

Justin woke Sunday morning wrapped in Brian's arms. He turned into the embrace and inhaled the sweet scent of Brian Kinney. For a brief moment everything was perfect, then he remembered Tommy. He reluctantly disengaged himself from Brian and reached for the phone. He called the hospital. Dr Jarvis was not on duty; the nurse informed him that Tommy had been moved from ICU and into a room. He was still unconscious and was being monitored closely.

Justin thanked the nurse for the information before hanging up. He looked down at Brian as he lay sleeping next to him. He had never in his life seen anyone as beautiful as this man. Justin could not stop himself from reaching down and touching Brian's cheek. Brian eyes open the instant Justin made contact.

"I didn't mean to wake you."

"You didn't. I was already awake. Can Tommy have visitors today?"

"Yeah, he can."

Brian sat up in the bed. "Well let's grab a shower and head over there."

"I don't have a change of clothes."

"We can shower here and then head over to your place so you can change. I'll trail you and that way we can go to the hospital in one car."

Justin looked at Brian with amazement. How could he have ever been so wrong about his man? No one aside from Daphne had ever cared so much about Justin or went out of their way to be there for him. Brian's tenderness mixed with Justin's already fragile emotions was causing fresh tears to fill his eyes again.

Brian noticed the tears. "Tommy is going to be fine…doctors don't know shit. They'll tell you one thing and it turns out to be the total opposite." "Brian wiped the tears from Justin's cheeks. "Tommy will wake up and he will be same smart, wise beyond his years kid he was before."

"I know… I know." Justin said as Brian took him by the hand and led him to the shower stall.

 

******
 

Justin parked his car in front of his building. Brian pulled the jeep up behind him. Justin walked to his front stoop and waited for Brian to join him. Brian was a little surprised to see the small apartment Justin lived in. It didn't seem to fit Justin; there was no homeyness or color to it. The only sign of Justin, Brian noticed were a couple of paintings he had hanging on the walls. There were some really nice pieces; Brian studied them while Justin went into the bedroom to change.

Justin came out and saw Brian looking at the art work.

"I really like these pieces. They look original. Who's the artist?"

"Um …I am…I painted those."

Brian was not surprised by Justin's admittance. "They're really good."

Justin shrugged his shoulder. "It's a hobby; I don't really get to indulge in much." He shrugged his shoulders again as he reached for his keys. "I'm ready."

The two headed back downstairs and climbed into Brian's jeep. They made a quick stop by the office so that Justin could retrieve his wallet, before heading to the hospital.

 

******
 

The nurse at the front desk gave them Tommy's room number. They walked in to find Mrs. Gonzales preparing to leave.

"Hello Mrs. Gonzales, is there any change?"

"Justin, I'm glad to see you. I don't know why that doctor would not let you visit Tommy yesterday. I told her you were his family."

"I don't know either. I'm here now." Justin walked over to the bed and looked down at Tommy's sleeping form. He was such a handsome little boy. His head was bandaged as well as his left shoulder. Justin leaned over the bed rail and pressed a light kiss against his cheek He reached out and squeezed Tommy's uninjured hand hoping for some sort of response. He didn't get one.

Mrs. Gonzales looked at Justin with sad eyes. She knew how much Justin cared about this little boy, and she hoped for both their sakes he would be okay. She loved Tommy but she also had her biological children to look after. As much as she wanted to stay with Tommy she had to get home to them.

"Justin I must go. I will come back later."

"Okay Mrs. Gonzales. I'll sit with him for a while."

Mrs. Gonzales gave Justin a hug before she left. She nodded her head in Brian's direction and left the room.

The room Tommy was in was small, and it was occupied by two other patients. Visitors were coming through constantly. Brian excused himself from the room to lessen the crowdedness.

"I'll give you some time alone with Tommy." Brian said as he headed for the door.

"You don't have to leave."

"No it's fine. I'll be back."

Brian left the room. Justin stood next to Tommy's bed and talked to him for a while. Fifteen minutes or so later a nurse came in to check his vitals. He smiled at Justin.

"That's good what you're doing." the nurse said.

"Excuse me?"

"Talking to him…I believe they can hear and feel everything going on around them even in deep sleep. Keep talking to him, he hears you."

Justin smiled at the nurse. "Thanks."

The nurse finished taking Tommy's vitals and left. A half hour passed and Brian had not returned yet. Forty five minutes passed, Justin went to use the rest room. When he came out two orderlies were in the room and started unplugging Tommy's machines.

"Hey wait a minute…what the hell are doing?"

"We're moving the patient."

"Why? He was just moved to this room."

"He's moving to a private room," the taller of the orderlies said.

Justin stepped out of the way and followed the orderlies as they pushed Tommy down the hall to a larger and private room. Brian was in the room standing by the door as candy stripers were placing flowers and balloons around the room.

"You did this?" Justin said in awe.

"I figure he would thrive better in his own room."

Justin smiled at Brian; it was the closest to one of his sunshine smiles Brian has seen in the past few hours. The orderlies reconnected Tommy's machinery and left the room. Justin walked over and shut the door behind them. He turned to Brian who was still standing next to the door and wrapped his arms around his waist for a hug.

"Thank you for showing up at the park yesterday. I didn't know what made me go there yesterday…but now I do."

"Stop thanking me…okay. What's the point of having money if you don't use it." Brian said as he returned the hug before disengaging himself." I bought this in the gift shop." Brian held up a little boom box radio. I figured you would know what type of music he would like. We can keep it playing for him at night."

"Than…um that's a great idea…" Justin set the radio up next to the bed. He programmed in a few hip hop and rap stations he knew Tommy liked. "I'll bring him some CD's later."

Justin and Brian stayed with Tommy for a few hours. Justin was amazed that Brian stayed as long as he did. He was even more surprised when Brian suggested he come back to the house with him that night, instead of going to his apartment.

"Are you sure? What about Gus?"

"Gus would love to see you."

"Okay , but I need to go by the apartment first. I want to pick up my car."

Brian nodded.

Justin stopped at the nurses' desk before they left. He spoke with the nurse on duty.

"I turned the radio on for Tommy; I would like for it stay on all night. He normally sleeps listening to music.

"Certainly sir."

"Also if there is any change to his condition could someone please call me. I'll come right away. Justin gave the nurse his cell phone number and she placed it in his file.

Brian dropped Justin off in front of his apartment, he ran upstairs to grab a change of clothes and came back down and climbed into his car. Even though he knew the way, he trailed Brian to his house.

Brian let himself in with his key. He could hear Debbie's and Gus' voices coming from the kitchen. Justin placed his overnight bag by the door and followed Brian into the house.

"Mmmm, what smells so good." Brian said as he walked into the kitchen.

"Gus and I are fixing dinner." Debbie said as she turned toward the kitchen entrance. Her smile grew broader when she noticed Justin with Brian.

"Hey sunshine, I'm happy to see you." Debbie walked over to give both men a kiss on the cheek. "Is everything okay?" She said looking directly at Justin.

"No, but I'm trying to focus on the positive."

Debbie decided not to pry for more information. She figured she'd learn what was going on in due time. "Well Brian since you're home I will be taking off. It seems Vic is missing my company." Debbie removed the apron she was wearing and placed on the counter. "Give the chicken another half hour and then pop the rolls in the oven. The mashed potatoes and vegetables are in the warmer."

"Debbie you don't want to stay for dinner?"

"No I'm heading home, you guys in enjoy."

Debbie walked into the living room and grabbed her purse and coat. The boys followed her. She kissed all three of her guys goodbye. Brian walked with her out to her car.

Brian opened the door for Debbie to climb in. "He's a good kid Brian. What ever he is dealing with right now I know you'll help him through it."

"Why are you so sure about him?"

"I felt the same way when I met you and I was right about you." Debbie closed the door and started the engine. Brian stepped back as she drove away from the curb.

Brian re-entered the house to find Justin and Gus sitting on the living room floor coloring. It gave Brian a warm feeling to see the two of them together like that.

"I'll check on dinner."

A short while later the three of them were sitting at the diner table.

"Justin where's Tommy?"

Both men were taking off guard by Gus' question. Justin looked to Brian to answer him.

"Gus Tommy isn't feeling well?" His father said.

"What's wrong with him?"

"He's hurt."

"Like me."

"Yeah, sort of like you." Brian wanted to change the subject, he didn't want to get into to much detail. "Gus how would like to come into the office with me for a little while tomorrow."

"YAAY, will Cynia be there."

"Yes, Cyn-thi-a will be there."

They finished their meal and Justin helped Brian clear up the dinner dishes, while Gus watched TV. Justin also helped Brian give Gus his bath. It was a lot easier keeping his cast from getting wet with two people than one. Brian tucked Gus into bed while Justin stood in the doorway. He re-told the giraffe story which had quickly become one of Gus' favorites. Brian made sure Gus was comfortable and kissed him goodnight. He shut off the over head light and left the nightlight on for him.

Brian walked across the hall to the master bedroom. He walked in and switched on the light. Justin was surprised by the décor. Brian noticed his look of surprise.

"I never changed it from how the girls had. It was familiar to Gus and I didn't want to take that from him. Maybe in a year or so I'll redecorate. This lesbian décor is bit too masculine for me." Brian added with a chuckle.

"It's nice, but it's not you. The loft was you. I think it's great that you wanted to make changes slowly for Gus. "Justin walked toward Brian as he stood by the bed. He reached up and kissed him.

Brian pulled back. "We better stop before we go to far. I've never brought another person here, I don't even have condoms in the house.

"No condoms." Justin said a bit disappointed, and overjoyed at the same time to think he was the only man Brian has ever brought to his home.

"I might have some in the jeep."

Justin kissed him again. "Where are your keys, I'll go check."

"Downstairs by the front door."

Justin went downstairs, Brian heard the front door open as Justin went out to the car. Brian kicked off his shoes and stripped down to nothing as he climbed into bed. He waited for Justin to come back.

"We're in luck you had plenty in the jeep and lube." Justin dropped the supplies on the bed and he stripped to join Brian.

The boys made good use of the condoms. They tried to be quiet as possible as not to wake Gus. By the time the last of the condoms Justin brought in were used, both men were satisfied and exhausted. They fell into a restful sleep. Brian held on to Justin as he slept. Even though he was trying not to show it, Brian could tell Tommy was heavy on his mind.

Brian woke to the feeling he was being watched. He opened his eyes to find himself looking directly into Justin's. "You look so peaceful when you're sleeping."

"Doesn't everyone?"

I don't know, but you do."

Brian stretched out next to Justin. "What time is it?"

"Almost 7 am. I called the hospital and they said Tommy's vital are getting stronger. That's a good sign."

"Hey that's great." Brian sat up in the bed.

"I'll head over to the hospital when you leave. Matt said I could have the day off."

"How about we meet back here around 12:30 for lunch?"

Justin agreed.

Brian and Justin showered and dressed before waking Gus to get him ready. Brian let Justin in on his secret pancake recipe as he helped him prepare breakfast. Justin kissed Brian and Gus as they left for the office. Brian gave Justin his cell phone number to call him if he needed him. Justin waited until after 9:00 before leaving the house for the hospital.

 

******
 

The Peterson's drove to Magic Moments Daycare Center intent on seeing their grandson. Mr. Peterson waited in the car as Mrs. Peterson went into the building. She walked into the front office.

"Hello I'm Nancy Peterson, Gus Peterson's grandmother."

"Gus Marcus-Peterson?" The receptionist asked.

"Yes, I'm here to pick him up."

"Oh…well, first off, you have to be on a list to be able to pick him up." The receptionist got up and retrieved Gus' file. I don't see your name on the list his father submitted to us. And second I don't' believe Gus returned to school today. Maybe you should try him at home." The receptionist returned the file to the file cabinet.

"What do you mean …returned to school yet…, is he ill?"

The receptionist eyed Mrs. Peterson suspiciously "Maybe you should contact Mr. Kinney."

Mrs. Peterson turned and left the office. The receptionist picked up the phone and called Brian at his office to let him know she had come by. She didn't reach Brian, but she left a message on his voice mail.

Mrs. Peterson walked out the front door, she saw a young mother bringing her daughter in late. "Excuse me miss."

"Yes."

"Do you by chance know my grandson, Gus Peterson?"

"Brian's son, yes I know him. Poor thing it's a shame what happened."

"Yes a shame." Mrs. Peterson said pretending as if she knew what happened to Gus. "I never knew exactly how it happened."

"Neither do I to be honest. Susie here told me. I just noticed I haven't seen Brian around all week and I asked Susie what happened and she said Gus arms were broken."

"Arms!!! Thank you I have to go." Mrs. Peterson walked back to her car. "Ronald we are going to the Child Welfare office something has to be done today."

The Peterson's drove to the office and asked to speak with Matt Boyd. Matt met them in the lobby and showed them to his office.

"Mr. and Mrs. Peterson how can I help you?"

"You can help by telling my why my grandson is still living in that house."

"I have one of my best case workers looking into your accusations. If he felt your grandson was in harms way he would have removed him from the household by now."

"Having his arms broken and not being in school for weeks; does that not constitute being in harms way."

"I'm not aware of him breaking his arm. Justin didn't tell me."

"Well maybe Mr. Taylor isn't doing his job properly. I want my grandson out of that house. TODAY!!!!"

"Mrs. Peterson it doesn't work like that, we can't be too hasty. Let me check the file. Wait here." Matt walked out to the back offices were the case workers sit. He went over to the file cabinet, he didn't see the Kinney file. "Dolores."

"Yeah Matt."

"Have you seen the Kinney file?"

"No, did you check Justin's desk?"

Matt walked over to the desk and the file was laying there open. "I have it. Dolores, did Justin say anything to you about this case?"

"No not really. Actually he hasn't said anything at all about it."

"Thanks."

Matt walked back to his desk. He read the file on the way. He only thing in it was Justin's notes from his meeting with the Peterson and a few notes of observations, none it painted a good picture of Brian Kinney, but this combined with what the Peterson's were telling him now left Matt with very little recourse.

Matt sat behind his desk, and faced the Petersons. "We'll have Gus placed in foster care today."

"Foster care!!! Why can't he come with us?"

"We can't take him from his home and give him to you. We have to place him someplace neutral and then figure out a permanent placement. Justin notes are bit unclear, but if what you are telling me is true we need to remove him. I need to verify information with the school and we will go from there."

"Will he be removed today?" Nancy Peterson demanded. The whole while Ron sat quietly as usual as his wife ranted and raved.

"He may be removed today, but like I said it will be to neutral environment."

"As long as he is away from that vile disgusting person….What was my daughter thinking?"

"Well if you two will excuse me, I have a lot to do if we want to get the ball rolling today."

After the Peterson's left, Matt looked over the file and made a few phone calls.

 

******
 

Brian buckled Gus into the passenger seat of his jeep and walked around to the driver's side. It was after 12:00 and Justin called to let him know he was on his way back to Brian's house. He was in much better spirits. Tommy vitals were getting stronger and he was making voluntary movements. He hadn't woken up yet, but his doctor seemed much more hopeful than the other night.

Justin parked his car in front of the Kinney home. He sat and waited for Brian to arrive. Brian pulled up a short while later. He and Justin had decided to go out for lunch instead of cooking. They went to a pizza parlor not to far from where they lived. Gus chatted the whole time about how much fun he had at his daddy's office.

"Wow it sounds like you had a great time Gus."

"He always does, my staff spoils him rotten whenever he comes in with me."

It was close to 4:00 when they left the restaurant. Gus held on to both Justin and Brian's hand they walked to the car.

"Brian, I'm going to head back to the hospital for a little while." Justin said once they were settled into the jeep.

"Alright. … You are more than welcome to come back later. If you want."

Justin looked at Brian's profile as he drove. "I want." He saw Brian's lips curl up into a slight smile at his answer.

Brian noticed a strange car in his parked in front of the house as he approached. Gus was looking out the window from the back seat.

"Who's that Daddy?"

"I don't know." Brian parked the car and climbed out. Justin got out on the passenger side and turned to help Gus out. As he closed the passenger side door, the occupants of the unfamiliar car stepped out.

"Dolores?" Justin said questioningly.

"Justin, what are you doing here?"

"Justin you know this person?" Brian asked slightly confused.

"Yes, I work with Dolores." He turned his attentions back to Dolores and the other person he did not recognize.

Dolores focused her attention on Brian. "Mr. Kinney we have reason to believe that Gus Peterson is in a harmful environment. We have orders to remove him for the time being while an investigation is conducted.

"Harmful environ…WHAT!!!. Who the hell are you…actually I don't care who you are, my son is not going anywhere." Brian walked around the jeep to where Gus was standing next to Justin.

"Mr. Kinney please let's not make a scene. We don't want to upset Gus." Dolores advanced toward Gus as Brian bent down and lifted him up."

"Lady I advise you not to touch my son." Brian said his voice menacing.

"Daddy what's going on…who's that lady?" Gus asked. He knew something bad was going on, he just wasn't sure what.

"Dolores this has to be a mistake. This was my case and I did not authorize any of this."

"Justin I can't go into all that right now. Matt read your file on this case, and he ordered that the child be removed. Mr. Kinney we have police officers parked around the corner, it would be best if we did not have to call them."

Brian was no longer listening to the woman he turned and glared at Justin. "Your file! You put in your file that my son was in a harmful environment?" Brian turned away from him disgusted.

"Excuse me, I'm taking my son in the house."

"Mr. Kinney if you take another step it is going to get ugly and if you care about your son you don't want to scare him like that."

Brian noticed the other man gesture down the street. He saw the police car for the first time as it drove toward them.

"Brian, it may be easier to just let him go with them for now. I swear he won't be gone long, I will straighten this whole thing out." Justin trying to make sense of the situation.

Brian continued to walk toward his house with Gus in his arms. The police officer began to approach. He felt Gus stiffen in his arms.

"Daddy what's going on…I'm scared."

"Mr. Kinney, put the boy down and allow these people to do their job."

Brian turned around to see one of the officers walking toward him. This was a nightmare, but he knew if he continued to fight it would only get worse. Brian lowered Gus to his feet. He knelt down in front of him. Brian had never felt so helpless in his life.

"Gus I need you to go with this lady, just for a short while."

"Daddy I don't want to go with her." Gus said pleading with his father.

"Just for a little while." Brian said. He felt hot tears stinging his eyes.

"Where are we going?"

Brian glanced toward Dolores who came to stand next to him and Gus. The officer backed away when he saw Brian cooperating. "Where are you taking him?" He asked trying to control the anger in his voice.

"We have a family he can stay with for the night."

"He won't be staying the night. I want to speak to who authorized this right now."

"Come on Gus, let's go." Dolores took Gus by the hand and led him toward the car. Brian walked closely behind them. Justin stood back in total disbelief of what was happening.

Brian watched as Gus was placed in the car. "Gus you will be home soon okay. Don't be scared, you'll be home soon. I love you."

"Love you too Daddy." Gus voice was barely a whisper as Dolores closed the door. She handed Brian information on who to contact regarding Gus' welfare. Brian stood on the side walk as he watched the car drive away with Gus in it. He pulled out his phone and dialed his lawyer.

Paul picked up on the first ring.

"Paul, it's Brian, I need you to meet me at Child Services right now. They just came and took Gus."

"Shit! Brian, I'll meet you there in 15 minutes."

Brian walked toward his jeep. Justin approached him. Brian stood with his hand on the door handle. "Justin I think you better leave."

"Brian I don't know what happened. This should not be happening."

"I know what happened. I trusted you. I let my guard down and I trusted you." Brian turned and looked at Justin. Justin felt the chill straight through to his bones.

"Brian please don't do this. I could never hurt you like that." Justin reached out to touch him, Brian slapped his hand away.

"I'm going to get my son and straighten out this mess." As Brian climbed into his car he saw Justin turn to walk away, his shoulders slumped in. "Justin" he called as he reached his car. Justin turned around and Brian saw the tears falling, but he couldn't let them affect him, not this time. "I don't ever want to see you again."

Brian started the engine and drove away.

Justin got into his car and drove toward his office; he needed to speak with Matt. Gus belonged with his father.

End of part 5
01/10/05

Return to A Child's Needs