Cinderfella



Part 1
 

His name was Justin. He never went by his last name as it was not the name of his father. His biological father died when he was only an infant. His mother raised him on her own until he was eight. Then one day she came home with another man. A man that Justin didn’t like from the moment he laid eyes on him.

“I’m sure once you get to know him, you’ll like him.” Jennifer said.

“Maybe you’re right.” Justin had a bad feeling but Craig Taylor seemed to make his mother happy and that’s all that mattered to Justin. It wasn’t until after the wedding that Justin met his two new stepbrothers.

“This is Michael and Ethan.” Craig introduced them. “They’re just a little older than you.” He smiled.

“Won’t it be great to have brothers to play with?” Jennifer asked.

“Yeah, great.” Justin was less than enthusiastic. The boys just looked mean and it was very obvious that they were spoiled brats. Their father, who looked nothing like either of them, was very wealthy and catered to his sons’ every whim.

Justin’s first assessment of his new brothers was completely accurate. They were very mean boys and were often playing cruel tricks on Justin. They also managed to get Justin in trouble every time they did something wrong. Craig had no problem believing his sons were innocent. Jennifer was having a hard time believing her normally well behaved son was acting so badly. At first she thought maybe he was just acting out because of the marriage, but then she started to realize that it wasn’t Justin at all.

When Jennifer mentioned this to Craig he was furious. He accused her of hating his sons and treating them as if they weren’t part of her family. He also accused her of believing Justin could do no wrong and playing favorites. He said she thought that Justin was better than Michael and Ethan. She tried to protest but he would hear nothing of it. It was at that moment that she saw the real Craig Taylor and decided to leave. She told Craig of her intentions. That night the extremely healthy, thirty four year old woman died mysteriously in her sleep. No one was able to explain her death.

Justin was devastated. Not only had he just lost his mother but he was stuck with this horrible family that didn’t seem to care that Jennifer was gone. They seemed almost happy that she was out of the way. To make matters worse, he was now being treated as a servant.

When Craig and his sons first moved in, Justin was allowed to keep his own room. Michael and Ethan had to share a room because of the limited space in the house. As soon as Jennifer died, even before the funeral, Justin was kicked out of his room and forced into the basement. He was not given a bed, simply a pile of blankets. His computer was confiscated by Ethan. Everything Justin had was appropriated by one of his stepbrothers. Everything, that is, except for the sketch books that his idiot, talentless brothers had no use for.

Justin wasn’t allowed to attend his mother’s funeral. He wasn’t even told when the service would be. He was forced to stay home and clean the house from top to bottom. The maid and the cook had been fired, both jobs falling on Justin. Fortunately his mother made sure he was an excellent cook even at his young age. Normally Justin would have protested but he was afraid of Craig. He had a suspicion that Craig had killed his mother but no way to prove it and he didn’t want the same fate to befall him. He spent his time doing as his stepfather and stepbrothers ordered. What little free time he had was spent drawing. He was allowed little time for sleeping. He prayed every day that there would be a chance for him to escape. Every night when he slept he’d dream of life away from the Taylors.

 

Part 2
 

“This is driving me insane.” Carl said. He was speaking to his wife about their eighteen year old son. He was restless and lonely. He was also completely uninterested in any of the young women he met. “I don’t understand it. He’s a handsome young man. The girls in the city practically throw themselves at him.” He sighed and paced in the living room. They were the richest family in Pittsburgh. Though Brian wasn’t their biological son, having been adopted after he was removed from his family at a young age, he stood to inherit everything. Even though he was just eighteen, they hated to see him so lonely. As they talked about this, Vic, Debbie’s brother, came into the room.

“Maybe he just hasn’t met the right girl.” Debbie said. “We could have a party. Invite all the eligible young girls in town.”

“How many girls has Brian been out with?” Vic asked. Debbie and Carl looked at each other, then at Vic.

“Several. He started dating when he was fifteen. None of them lasted much longer than a month or so.” Carl said.

“That poor Lindsay Peterson still holds a flame though Brian completely ignores her.” Debbie commented.

“Did you ever consider that perhaps girls just don’t have what Brian is looking for?” Vic asked.

“It’s obvious these girls don’t.” Carl said. Vic shook his head.

“I don’t mean just these girls, Carl. I mean girls in general.” Vic clarified.

“What do you mean?” Carl was completely confused but Debbie caught on immediately.

“You think Brian is gay?” She asked.

“It would explain a lot. He’s got his pick of the young women in town and yet he is completely lonely and ignoring most of them. He has befriended Daphne Chanders but they are simply friends. And Daphne is a lovely young girl, any man would be lucky to have her.”

“Maybe he’s confided in her...” Carl started.

“If he did trust her with the truth and you go behind his back to obtain it and are successful Brian will lose the trust he has for all of you. You need to give him time. Let him tell you when he’s ready.” Vic said. Debbie and Carl nodded. As if on cue, Brian poked his head into the room.

“Mom, Dad...can I talk to you for a minute?” He was suddenly nervous. He knew that Daphne was standing just outside the doors but it didn’t help.

“Of course, son.” Debbie smiled. Vic started to leave as Brian came into the room.

“It’s okay, Uncle Vic, you can stay.” He figured it would be easier to tell them all at once. Vic stopped and smiled at his nephew and Brian smiled back. He looked at his parents and grew nervous again. He pulled at the collar of his shirt.

“What is it, Brian?” Carl asked. It was obviously something very important.

“I.....um.....I appreciate everything you’ve done.......the parties and....trying to fix me up with the different girls. Most parents wouldn’t want their kid dating at all.” He couldn’t meet their eyes. “I just.....” He sighed, running his fingers through his hair, then made up his mind. He looked his parents in the eye. “I’m gay.” He said with more confidence than he actually felt. They were quiet for a moment and Brian’s heart was pounding. He was sure they would disown him.

“We were actually just discussing that possibility with your uncle.” Debbie said finally, a smile coming to her lips.

“So you’re not mad?” That was Brian’s worst fear.

“Of course not, son.” Carl smiled as well. Brian let out a huge sigh of relief.

“Now, about that party....” Debbie said. Vic and Brian looked at Debbie a little confused.

“Your mother was planning a party and was going to invite all of the eligible young women in town.” Carl explained. Debbie saw Brian and Vic ready to protest.

“I think a change needs to be made. I’m sure you’ve been finding it difficult to meet young men.” She looked at her son.

“Um, yeah. Very difficult.” Brian said. He exchanged a knowing smile with Vic who had personally escorted Brian to Liberty Avenue on more than one occasion.

“So, we’ll throw a party and invite all the eligible young gay men.” She said.

“A coming out party?” Brian asked, looking to Vic for help.

“I’m sure it’s not that simple.” Vic said. “You can’t send invitations out to just everyone. Some people might get very offended.”

“What do you suggest we do?” Carl asked.

“Let me handle it. I know all the right places to advertise.” He again smiled at Brian.

“Alright.” Debbie said. “You make all the arrangements.” Vic and Brian nodded and left together.

“Make sure you advertise that no drugs will be allowed.” Brian smirked.

“I have it all worked out.” Vic said.
 

Part 3
 

Vic went to work advertising in Out and The Advocate and every local gay rag. He put up notices in all the reputable stores along Liberty Avenue. He made it very clear that it would be a clean party: No drugs, no sex and black tie. He knew Debbie wasn’t ready for a real fag party. Once that was done invitations were sent out to PFLAG members and known GLC supporters. Then the preparations were officially under way.

On the other side of town, Ethan let out a rather unmanly squeal. He’d been reading Out and came across the advertisement about the party. He got up and ran into his brother’s room. He was practically bouncing off the walls.

“What?” Michael was in a horrid mood. Justin hadn’t fallen for the trap he’d set when the boy brought in his breakfast.

“Look!” Ethan squealed again and thrust the magazine into Michael’s face. Michael moved it back so he could read what the advertisement said.

“So what? Brian Kinney is having a party. Big fucking deal.” He pushed the magazine back at Ethan.

“Not just any party. A boyfriend finding party.” Ethan said. “I didn’t even know he’s gay.”

“So?”

“So?!?!” Ethan was amazed at the stupidity of his brother. “One of the young men at this party will become Brian Kinney’s life partner and thereby inherit everything along with him when his parents die.” There was a twinkle of dollar signs in his eyes.

A lot had happened in the eight years since Jennifer Taylor’s death. Several bad investments in dot coms and his sons’ growing greed had depleted Craig’s finances significantly. Though he couldn’t truly afford it, he continued to spoil his sons, emptying Justin’s trust fund to do so. Craig had also discovered that all three of the young men in his care were gay. It was perfectly okay for his sons but Justin was treated more harshly than ever. When realization finally dawned on Michael, the two boys squealed and ran into their father’s room. Justin happened to be in there polishing Craig’s shoes at the time.

“Father!” The boys yelled in unison.

“Must you yell?” Craig asked. Having to be in the same room as Justin was giving him a headache but he didn’t trust the boy alone with his shoes.

“Father look!” Ethan gave the magazine to his father. Craig started to read aloud.

“Brian Kinney is holding a formal ball for all eligible young gay men in Pittsburgh in the hopes of finding his soul mate.” Craig looked up. “The Brian Kinney?” He asked.

“Richest young man in town.” Michael said.

“One of America’s most eligible bachelors.” Ethan smiled.

“And every eligible gay man is invited.” Michael practically squealed.

“That means I can go.” Justin said softly. The three men looked at him, then started laughing hysterically.

“You?” Ethan asked.

“Please!” Michael snorted.

“He’s practically royalty.” Craig said. “What would he want to do with a servant like you?” The truth was that Craig knew Justin was far more attractive than either of his sons and he wouldn’t risk Justin ruining their chances.

“But it says every eligible young gay man.” Justin said defiantly.

“You, however, are not eligible.” Craig said. “You’re a prized servant and completely irreplaceable. I just can’t chance losing you to a family that won’t put your skills to good use.” His voice was dripping with sarcasm and Ethan and Michael were smirking behind him. “So you will spend that evening making sure the house is spotless.” Craig’s tone gave him no other options.

“Very well.” Justin nodded, but kept his head high.

“And send for Emmett. My boys needs new suits.” Craig said. Ethan and Michael squealed delightedly.

“Yes, sir.” Justin ground out on his way out the door. Emmett was one of those tailors that catered exclusively to extremely rich clientele. As Justin placed the call he wondered which piece of artwork would be sold to pay for his brothers’ new suits. The art was all they had that would sell for enough to cover the cost. He knew it was a waste. Brian Kinney would never choose the greasy, smarmy Ethan or the whiney, annoying Michael. Of course, Craig wasn’t above killing the competition.

None of them noticed that Justin had taken the magazine. After placing the call to Emmett, he went to his room in the basement. Accompanying the advertisement was a picture of the most beautiful man Justin had ever seen. He fell asleep that night to visions of beautiful auburn hair and intense hazel eyes.
 

Part 4
 

The night of the party came and Brian was pacing in his room. He was wearing a custom tailored Armani tuxedo with a black shirt and a black tie and vest with maroon embroidery. Debbie at first wondered about his choice of colors until she saw how beautiful he looked. The maroon accents set off the red highlights in his hair and the black cloth complimented his tan skin perfectly.

“Something wrong?” Vic asked as he walked into the room. He’d gone to check on Brian as the party was about to start and he was nowhere to be found.

“Why should I even bother? They’re all going to be trolls.” Brian sighed. All the hot guys were into drugs and sex and anything other than this party.

“That’s not necessarily true, Brian.” Vic said.

“Why do they want me tied down anyway? I’m only eighteen. I’m supposed to be having fun. Not getting married.” He sighed.

“They just want to see you happy, Brian.” Vic came over and touched his nephew’s shoulder.

“I’m too young to be happy.” He almost whined. That made Vic laugh.

“Do me a favor. Go to the party. Have a good time. Don’t worry about trying to find somebody. If it’s supposed to happen, it’ll happen on its own. But, at least this way you’ll meet some respectable gay men instead of those interested in drugs and sex.” Vic said.

“Well what fun is that?” Brian smirked and Vic laughed again. They went down to the party together.
 

*****
 

Justin was cleaning the kitchen as his brothers were heading to the party, escorted by their father. He sighed as he watched them by the door in their new suits. He’d noticed the week before that his mother’s favorite Monet from above the fireplace was missing. He resented them greatly for that.

“Have a good evening.” Ethan snickered.

“Yes, have fun.” Michael called.

“Now, be nice to your brother.” Craig smirked at his sons and they giggled. “I expect this house to be spotless when we return.” He said before the three of them walked out the door.

“It already is.” Justin said after they were gone, flipping off the door before getting back to work. He was sure that everyone had left.

“And what is a gorgeous boy like you doing still home tonight of all nights?” Emmett asked from the doorway making Justin jump.

“I didn’t realize anyone was still here.” Justin said.

“Your behavior toward the poor defenseless door made that evident.” He smirked and Justin blushed. “You didn’t answer my question.”

“What was that?” Justin honestly hadn’t heard him.

“Why are you home and not at the party?”

“Because my stepfather has decided that I am irreplaceable and therefore can not risk losing me to marriage.” He rolled his eyes.

“That man is your stepfather?” Emmett was shocked. Justin nodded. “He doesn’t act like it.”

“His sons and money and status are all that’s important to him. I used to get blamed when Mikey and Ian did something wrong. When my mother was alive, she realized what was going on and said something to him. Three weeks later she died in her sleep of mysterious causes. I don’t have proof but I’m sure Craig did it.” At this Emmett gasped. “Craig is actually broke. He lost all his money in the stock market, emptied my trust fund and started selling off my mother’s possessions. He sold her favorite Monet to pay for their new suits.” Justin had no idea why he was confiding in this total stranger but it felt good.

“Oh my goodness! How horrible!” Emmett exclaimed.

“And there’s nothing I can do about it.” Justin sighed.

“We’ll see about that.” Emmett was suddenly determined to help this boy. He walked over and grabbed Justin’s hand, pulling him out of the kitchen.

“What are you doing?” Justin was thoroughly confused.

“You are going to that party.” Emmett smiled.

“I don’t have anything to wear.” Justin said.

“Leave that to me.” Emmett replied. Justin stopped.

“I don’t have any money.” He said. Emmett smiled and pulled him along.

“Don’t worry about that, honey.”

“But we don’t have time for you to make me a suit.” Justin exclaimed.

“It’s only seven. We’ve got plenty of time. Besides, everybody knows the party won’t get good until ten.” Emmett stood Justin in the middle of the room and started taking his measurements.

“You intend to make me a custom fit tuxedo in less than three hours?” Justin asked incredulously.

“Think of me as your fairy god mother, sweetie, because I am going to work some serious magic.” He smiled and got to work.
 

*****
 

Brian was extremely bored. The music was annoying, the food was mediocre, there was no alcohol and no one was even remotely fuckable. To make matters worse, he was being constantly harassed by Craig Taylor’s sons. Neither of them was anywhere near attractive to Brian.

Ethan was a smarmy asshole with hair that looked like it hadn’t been washed since birth. He also had a small patch of hair on his chin that made Brian want to hold him down and yank it out one hair at a time. He would probably like that, Brian thought with a shudder. Michael was a whiney brat that tried to be cuter than he actually was. He did have a sort of boy next door look to him but that wasn’t Brian’s type at all. It was extremely obvious that they were spoiled and under educated and Brian just wanted them to go away.

“Can I please just go to bed?” He asked when he was finally able to make his way to his parents.

“But Brian, it’s barely nine thirty.” Debbie sighed.

“This sucks.” Brian sighed.

“Just give it a little more time, okay?” Carl said. Brian nodded and sighed again.

“Fine.” He then turned to head back into the crowd of horny, money hungry twerps. As soon as he turned, his eyes landed on the most beautiful young man he’d ever seen. His blonde hair was neatly combed. Even from this distance Brian could see his beautiful blue eyes made more prominent by the pale blue tuxedo he was wearing. Usually a tux that color would have been tacky but it was tasteful and elegant on this young man. It was obviously Emmett’s handy work.

“Hi.” Brian said as he got right next to him.

“Hi.” Justin said with a smile. He couldn’t believe it. Brian Kinney was ignoring everyone else just to talk to him. His heart was pounding and he knew he had to be blushing.

“I’m Brian.” Brian smiled.

“Justin.” He replied. His heart sped up even more when Brian took his hand.

“Wanna dance?” He asked. Brian couldn’t take his eyes off those gorgeous red lips.

“Sure.” Justin smiled. Brian tightened his grip on Justin’s hand and led him out to the dance floor. Carl made a gesture to the DJ and Save the Last Dance for Me started. They moved to the middle of the dance floor and started to sway in time with the music. Before long the floor was cleared and Brian and Justin were alone out there. They were lost in each other, never breaking eye contact.

Brian was acting on instinct as he moved Justin around the floor, letting his body have complete control. That wasn’t entirely true. They’d be fucking right there on the dance floor if that were the case. He’d never felt like this before. He could honestly see his future in those beautiful blue eyes.

Justin was completely mesmerized. Brian’s eyes were so expressive and wonderful. The muddy green with gold flecks that looked into his very soul. A shiver ran up Justin’s spine but he didn’t mind it at all. He couldn’t keep from smiling as Brian dipped him, laughing along with Brian as he came back up. At the end of the dance Brian lifted Justin off the floor, spinning him around. When he came down they came together in a passionate kiss that shook them to their souls.

The crowd around the dance floor erupted in applause. There were smiles on every face. Well, every face except those of Craig, Michael and Ethan. As Brian took Justin’s hand and moved him off the dance floor to a private area, Craig and his sons moved to a different corner.

“What’s he doing here?” Michael whined

“And where’d he get that suit?” Ethan asked.

“I’m sure Emmett had something to do with that. The little twerp must be holding out on me. He must have some money stashed somewhere I don’t know about.” Craig said.

“What could Brian possible see in him?” Michael whined again.

“He’s just a servant.” Ethan pouted. Craig looked at his boys.

“You’re geniuses.” He smiled at his sons, then took off to follow Brian and Justin.

“He’s never called us that before.” Ethan said. Michael shrugged and they followed their father.
 

*****
 

Brian had taken Justin out into the garden. It was his mother’s pride and joy. The roses were in full bloom and very fragrant. Brian couldn’t keep his eyes off Justin, however. In the moonlight he seemed to glow as if lit from within. His pale skin like porcelain in it’s near perfection. Brian kept a light grip on Justin’s right hand as they walked together. They walked in silence, no words necessary between them. They turned to each other and leaned in for a kiss. Before their lips touched, Craig came upon them.

“What are you doing here?” He demanded, marching up to them. Justin turned and cringed. Brian sighed as he realized who was approaching them.

“What’s the problem?” Brian sounded bored.

“He’s the problem.” Ethan said, pointing to Justin.

“What does he have to do with you?” Brian moved partially in front of Justin. He was finding himself very protective of the blonde.

“He’s our servant.” Michael whined. Brian wondered if he ever spoke normally of if whine was his only mode.

“He wasn’t supposed to leave the house.” Craig said.

“I said that every eligible gay man was invited and he’s obviously gay and eligible so why should his status matter?” Brian honestly didn’t care. Craig saw the warm smile creep onto Justin’s face and wanted to slap it off.

“I’m sure David will love to hear about this.” Craig said. Brian looked at Justin a moment.

“What does David have to do with this?” Justin asked. David was his best friend. He’d moved away a few years ago but they still talked on the phone.

“I think he has everything to do with it.” Ethan added, catching on to his father’s plan.

“Who is David?” Brian asked Justin.

“He’s only the man Justin talks to on the phone every night.” Michael chimed in.

“For hours.” said Ethan.

“Justin?” Brian was backing away a little. He wanted an explanation.

“David is my best friend.” Justin explained.

“He’ll love to hear that.” Craig laughed.

“I love you, David.” Michael said.

“I miss you, David.” Ethan smirked.

“They are quite more than just best friends.” Craig told Brian.

“Brian, please. You can’t believe them.” Justin’s eyes were pleading.

“Why should I believe you?” Brian looked at Craig.

“Well, ask yourself this. How is it that a servant has enough money for an Emmett original?” Craig said.

“I’m guessing that means you don’t pay him well.” Brian raised an eyebrow.

“He gets a roof over his head and food to eat as well as an allowance.” Craig defended himself.

“There’s no way he could afford that suit, though.” Ethan said.

“What if he saved his money?” Brian raised an eyebrow. Justin smirked. Finally someone was defending him to Craig’s face.

“There wasn’t enough time...” Craig started.

“Look, just drop it.” Brian was getting angry. He couldn’t believe he’d ever doubted Justin. “Nothing you say will matter. You’re all three lying, manipulative, sniveling weasels. Why should I believe anything you have to say about someone you obviously don’t like and apparently mistreat?” He looked toward the door and saw one of the many body guards his parents hired. They were rather paranoid after all.

“Ben.” Brian called. The rather well built man came over and looked at Brian.

“Yes, sir?”

“Please escort these three gentlemen off the property and leave word with the gate attendant that they are never to set so much as one foot here again.” Brian glared at Craig as he said it.

“You’ll regret this, boy.” Craig growled at Justin as he was escorted out. Michael and Ethan followed their father silently.

“Thank you.” Justin said softly. Brian turned to look at him and smiled.

“Anything for you, Sunshine.” He kissed Justin’s cheek. Justin smiled and blushed. Brian reached up and touched his cheek. “You’re so beautiful.” This caused Justin to blush even more. Brian started to lean in to kiss him.

“Who is this?” Debbie asked from the doorway causing both young men to jump. This time Justin wasn’t the only one blushing. Brian took Justin’s hand and led him over to Debbie.

“Mom, this is Justin. Justin, this is my mom.” Brian smiled.

“It’s very nice to meet you.” Justin said with a slight bow.

“Such a gentleman.” Debbie was impressed.

“My mother made sure of it.” Justin commented.

“Would I know your mother?” Debbie questioned. Brian rolled his eyes. He hated when she did this. Justin seemed to grow a little tense.

“Jennifer Taylor.” He said softly.

“Such a wonderful woman. Her death was such a tragedy.” Debbie touched his arm and Justin nodded. Brian watched silently. “Well, it seems that my husband needs me. It was nice meeting you, Justin.” She kissed his cheek and winked at Brian before taking off. Brian looked at Justin a minute.

“Craig Taylor is your father?” He arched an eyebrow. There was only curiosity in his tone.

“Stepfather.” Justin admitted, looking down.

“He called you his servant.”

“That’s how he’s treated me since my mother’s death. I do all the housework and sleep in the basement.” He sighed. Brian hated Craig more by the minute.

“I refuse to let you go back to that life.” There was no room for argument. Brian had his mind made up. Though they’d only just met, Brian knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Justin.

“I do need to go back and get my things.” Justin said.

“We’ll get new things.” Brian started.

“Some of them are irreplaceable.”

“Then Ben can go with you.” Brian didn’t want to take any chances.

“I need to go alone, Brian.” He did love that Brian wanted to protect him. He got on his toes and pressed a gentle kiss to Brian’s lips. “I’ll be back.” He smiled a little.

“Be careful.” Brian refused to let go of Justin’s hand.

“I will.” Justin kissed him again, then left. Brian watched him leave and sighed heavily, a bad feeling forming a cold lump in the pit of his stomach. Brian truly feared that he would never see Justin again.

Part 5

 

When Justin arrived at the house he was surprised to find it completely dark. He knew that his brothers and stepfather had plenty of times to get home before he arrived. He thought perhaps they were already asleep. A smirk appeared on his lips when he remembered the humiliation his family had faced. They would certainly want to try to forget that as soon as possible. As Justin made his way to the basement he didn’t seem to notice the eyes that were following his every movement.

He left the basement door open, turning the light on as he made his way slowly down the steps. He grabbed a bag and started to pack his meager belongings. He was humming softly to himself and didn’t notice the silent figure that followed him down the stairs. The figure moved forward behind Justin. In a flash of movement the figure had a cloth over Justin’s mouth and nose. Seconds later Justin’s limp body fell to the figure’s feet.

“Let’s see if your prince charming still wants you when I’m done with you.” The figure cackled before binding Justin’s hands and carrying him out of the basement.
 

*****
 

Brian was worried. It was now ten the next morning and there had been no word from Justin. He paced in his bedroom, chewing on his bottom lip and the occasional fingernail. He’d been worried since last night but Debbie convinced him to get some sleep. He hasn’t slept well, tossing and turning all night. Finally around seven he’d given up. He couldn’t bring himself to eat breakfast. He simply paced in his bedroom waiting for Justin to at least call.

“You’re going to wear a hole in the carpet if you don’t stop.” Vic said from the doorway. He, too, was worried about the young blonde that seemed to have stolen his nephew’s heart. Brian sighed and sat down on the bed.

“Something’s wrong. Something happened.” Brian ran his fingers through his hair.

“You don’t know that....” Vic started.

“Yes, I do” Brian started pacing again. “I’m so tired of people telling me what I do and don’t know. This isn’t paranoia and it isn’t negativity. Something is definitely wrong.” Brian bit his thumbnail.

“How do you know?” Vic asked softly. Brian stopped and looked at him a minute, then sighed.

“I just know.” He said, almost on the verge of tears. At that moment Vic knew that Brian and Justin were meant to be together. There was no way he could be that connected to someone he just met if it wasn’t fate. It seemed, however, that fate was being extremely cruel.

“They can’t do anything until he’s been missing twenty four hours.” Vic reminded Brian.

“By then it’ll be too late.” Brian said. “And you know his so called family isn’t going to file a report.” He sat down and flopped back on the bed.

“Get your coat.” Vic said as he stood. He’d made a decision.

“What? Why?” Brian raised his head and looked at his uncle.

“We’re going to go look for Justin.” He smiled. Brian was up and on his feet in a flash. They both agreed that the best place to start was the house of Craig Taylor.
 

*****

They were both thankful that they didn’t wait for the police. When they arrived at the house a moving van was out front and several large men were loading the van quickly. Brian was about to walk into the house when Ethan came out.

“You” Brian yelled. Ethan looked up and froze. He stood still for about two seconds before dropping what he was carrying and running back into the house. Brian took off after him, his long legs giving him an advantage over the shorter man. He grabbed him by the back of the shirt and slammed him up against the nearest wall, holding him by the throat. “Where is he?” Brian demanded.

“I don’t know” Ethan replied. Brian tightened his grip on the scrawny neck, causing Ethan’s face to go red. Ethan started scratching at Brian’s hand. At that moment, Craig and Michael came into the hall.

“What’s going on here?” Craig demanded.

“Where’s Justin?” Brian asked. Michael was suddenly very nervous. He was horrible at lying.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Craig replied. Brian tightened his grip even more.

“You’ve got two options. Tell me what you did to Justin or find out what shade of blue the grease ball here will turn. Me? I’m partial to the latter.” Brian said with an evil glint in his eye. Vic stood by and did nothing. He’d seen his nephew like this before. It was unwise for anyone to get in his way.

“He’s not here.” Michael said finally. Craig was obviously willing to let Ethan die, but he wasn’t.

“Where is he?” Brian loosened his grip a little but not enough that Ethan could get free.

“I don’t know. Father hired someone to take him away.” Michael answered. Brian looked him in the eye and could tell he wasn’t lying. He lowered Ethan to the ground, having lifted him a good foot, but didn’t release his grip. He now looked Ethan in the eye.

“What do you know?” Brian asked. Normally Ethan would have remained loyal to his father, but Craig standing by and doing nothing as he was choked changed his perspective.

“Chris Hobbes took him. I’m not sure where but I know he’s got a cabin out by the lake.” Ethan’s voice was a little hoarse and he was rubbing his throat.

“Why you ungrateful, spoiled little brats!” Craig screamed.

“I’m not willing to die to keep Justin hidden.” Ethan said. Brian looked at the two young men who had just turned on their father.

“If you two are willing to testify against your father I will make sure you have full immunity.” Brian said and he meant it. Vic had slipped outside to call the police. Brian kept a close eye on Craig to make sure he didn’t run. Michael and Ethan looked at each other, then nodded. Brian was curious what that was about when Ethan turned to him.

“We also have proof that he killed Jennifer Taylor.” Ethan said and Michael nodded.

“You little shits!” Craig lunged but was stopped by the police officer that managed to sneak up behind him. They took Craig into custody and Ethan and Michael went along to give their statements. With luck, Craig would be put away for a very long time.

Part 6
 

With some help from Ethan, Brian and Vic managed to find the cabin that was most likely where Chris Hobbes was holding Justin. They’d made sure to bring both police and paramedics because they had no idea what condition Justin would be in. They slowly made their way up to the cabin. Brian peeked into the living room window and his heart stopped. Justin was tied to a chair in the living room. His head was slumped forward so Brian couldn’t see his face but he could see blood on Justin’s shirt. He was still wearing the tuxedo but the jacket had been removed.

“He doesn’t look good.” Brian whispered to Vic.

“We can’t go in until we know where Hobbes is.” Carl Horvath, the police officer beside Brian said. Brian nodded, then ducked a little more when Hobbes came into the room. He walked over to Justin, grabbed a handful of hair and lifted his head, pouring water over Justin’s face. Brian gasped at what he saw. Justin’s left eye was swollen shut and bruised. He had a long gash on his forehead and one on his right cheek. Brian could only imagine the other injuries that Justin had. Justin coughed and sputtered as the water ran down his face.

“That’s all the water you’re getting, fucking faggot.” Hobbes said, hitting Justin hard for no reason. Justin’s head snapped to the side. Brian wanted to rush in and pummel him but was stopped by both Vic and Carl.

“Let us handle this.” Carl said. He signaled to some of his men. The next several minutes were a blur of motion and shouting. Brian’s only concern was getting to Justin. Once he was given the okay, Brian made his way into the cabin, going directly to Justin and kneeling before him while Carl moved behind the chair and untied him. Brian gently lifted Justin’s chin and the blonde turned away.

“Baby, it’s me.” Brian said.

“Brian?” Justin’s voice was shaking. When Carl indicated that Justin’s hands were free, Brian took them in his own.

“I’m here, baby. You’re safe.” He wrapped his arms around Justin lightly. Justin melted against Brian’s body and started sobbing. Brian simply held Justin, stroking his hair and letting him cry. After a couple of minutes the paramedics took Justin out to the ambulance and loaded him on. Brian rode with him to the hospital, never letting go of Justin’s hand.

Justin was admitted to the hospital for observation after examination. Brian stayed with him the entire time. A plastic surgeon stitched up the cuts on Justin’s face for minimal scarring. Brian made sure to tell Justin how beautiful he was every day. Three days later Justin was released with order to rest. Brian pampered Justin, waiting on him hand and foot. He catered to Justin’s every whim. When Justin was given a clean bill of health by his doctor, he and Brian were married. The wedding was an extravagant affair. They honeymooned in Europe, Brian lavishing affection and gifts on his love. Neither of them had ever been happier.
 

*****
 

Craig Taylor was charged with the murder of Jennifer Taylor and the attempted murder of Justin Taylor. He was given a sentence of twenty five years to life with no possibility of parole. Ethan and Michael were given immunity in exchange for testifying against their father as Brian promised. They were given an allowance that would allow them to live without having to work, though it was not enough to sustain the life style to which they had grown accustom. Neither of them complained because they knew Brian could have left them broke and homeless. They managed to get help with a budget and live happily. Chris Hobbes was charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. He was sentenced to fifteen years in prison without parole.
 

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