Emerge Victorious

Chapter 17

With John and Bobby’s charges safely stuffed into the Navigator, John drove them all into the Pitts. The plan was to get the boys settled into their suite at the Plaza then get them to Papaganos on time for cocktails and dinner. The big event would take place just before dessert. However, when plans involved Brian and Justin, anything could happen.

“What time are our dinner reservations?” Justin asked as he was half trying to evade Brian’s pawing hands.

“Seven,” Bobby replied using his lawyer voice. There was a timetable to keep, although the family had made many contingency plans.

“So we have time for play?” Brian drawled as he grabbed Justin’s wrist to check the time.

“No you don’t,” John growled as he pulled up in front of the hotel. “You have enough time to check in, freshen up, get dressed then drive over,” John commanded, not in any mood for his brother’s inevitable nonsense. Glancing in the mirror John saw Patrick lean over to whisper something into Bree’s ear.

“Daddy, I’m hungry,” Bree whined pitifully as she looked down smoothing out her dress.

“Brian, your daughter is hungry,” Justin restated. He could see the wheels turning in his mate’s head.

“John, why don’t you drop us off so me and little Mary Sunshine here can get dressed while you take the kids to the restaurant. We’ll come later.” Brian stressed one particular word with a lascivious grin.

Patrick, also very wise for his age and onto his Uncle Brian, quickly whispered something else into Bree’s ear.

“Dada, you’ll hurry up, right? I want to be with you before you take daddy away. I won’t see you for forever,” Bree said as she turned her moist violet blue eyes onto her father.

Brian sighed. “Okay, Squirt, Daddy and I will hurry up, I promise, and...”

“And you don’t lie,” came a chorus. Brian glared at them as the car door was opened and a bevy of bellmen descended to help.

As John pulled away, driving them to the restaurant, he glanced back at the kids again. “Do we know what Bree wants to be when she grows up?” John asked Bobby sotto voce.

“I don’t think she’s declared anything yet other than master of the universe. Why?”

“Because that was an Oscar worthy performance,” John replied. Bobby nodded in agreement as he turned to look at the kids. Both of whom were wearing smug smiles.

 

*****
 

“No,” Justin said as he stripped off his clothes to put on his suit. They had showered at home before driving to Pittsburgh. And unless Brian got him all ‘dirty’ Justin didn’t require another one.

“Don’t make me beg, Sunshine,” Brian said as he did a slow striptease for his easy spouse. Both men’s bodies responded.

“Brian,” Justin chastised in a no nonsense tone, hoping that bigger heads would prevail.

“Can I at least get a kiss?”

“Yes,” Justin murmured just before Brian took the shorter man into his arms for a toe curling, breath stealing kiss. “I love you,” Justin whispered against Brian’s lips when he was released.

“Love you too, Sunshine.” Brian couldn’t stop grinding himself against the man who was his lover of twenty years. And neither could Justin resist Brian’s ministrations.

“No, Brian,” Justin groaned as if in pain, thumping his head against Brian’s chest. “We can’t disappoint the family.”

“Fuck the family,” Brian growled as he recaptured Justin’s lips.

“We can’t disappoint Bree,” Justin panted.

“Damn,” Brian sighed heavily. “You know just how to make my dick soft.”

Justin chuckled at his spouse’s dilemma. “I’m in the same situation, ya know.”

“Yeah. Okay, my little Mary Sunshine, I’ll stop, but you owe me big time,” Brian said as he gently pushed back from Justin.

“Just call me little Mary Voice of Reason. And I’ll gladly work off my debt,” Justin stated logically, wiggling his butt as he went back to getting himself dressed.

As Brian went to put on his own suit he stopped to take a good look at Justin. After twenty years there was little difference. The youthful innocence was replaced by a wise and knowledgeable countenance but little else betrayed the years.

“How do you do it, Sunshine?”

“Do what?”

“Stay so young and beautiful.”

“Brian I’m hardly young.” Brian glared at him. Justin rolled his eyes and shook his head. Their twelve year difference hardly mattered anymore except in Brian’s eyes. It was as if Justin was the only one aware that Brian still had the drive and stamina of a man half his age.

“Justin, I’m...” Brian sat on the edge of the bed with a huff. Justin thought he looked adorable even with the scowl in his eyes and the pout on his lips. But Justin would never say that out loud. Stifling a giggle and the wrath of the god known as Brian Kinney, Justin took the bull by the horns, so to speak. He positioned himself between Brian’s thighs then took Brian’s face in his hands.

“You are not old. You are the sexiest man on the planet. Brian, I’m not blind to the odd wrinkle or the stray grey hair but they only serve to make you even sexier. Men and women of all ages follow you with their eyes wherever you go. I have to work twice as hard as you to keep up with you. I love you, you big oaf. Now cut the shit and the self pity party and get that fine ass of yours dressed. We have a party to go to.”

Justin gave Brian a kiss and his sunniest smile, something that Brian could never resist. It worked.

“Okay Sunshine, you made your point. We’re both fab-u-lous!” Brian said a la Emmett.

The boys finished dressing then went down to the lobby.

 

*****
 

“Do you think they’ll show up or are we throwing this shindig for ourselves?” Debbie snarked at Emmett, as he handed her a glass of wine.

The family was enjoying their cocktails and nibbling the hors d’oeuvres while exchanging their favorite Brian and Justin stories. Bree was already ensconced on Craig’s lap keeping the man occupied. She graciously tolerated Taylor who Molly had sitting close by as well. The theory was that with Craig’s grandchildren so close at hand, Craig would be forced to behave himself. The fact that Susan, Jennifer and Debbie were all glaring daggers at him didn’t hurt either.

“They’ll show,” Emmett responded confidently. “They wouldn’t dare disappoint Bree.”

“You know we have a lot riding on that little girl. She’s only eight; it’s not right.”

“If she were an ordinary eight year old, I’d agree with you. But this is Miss Briana Victoria Kinney-Taylor we’re speaking about, reigning queen of the known universe. Besides, her fathers are Brian and Justin.” Emmett gave Debbie a poignant look as if that in itself should be explanation enough.

“You’re right,” Debbie said smacking her head with her palm. “What was I thinking about? Bree can handle it.”

“Of course she can, and if not, I made sure Carl brought along a set of those plastic handcuffs the cops are so fond of using. We’ll tie the man down!” Emmett declared with a toothy grin.

“Emm, I love the way you think,” Debbie said as she saluted Emmett with her glass before they mingled with the family.

 

*****
 

“What are you thinking about?” Father Tom asked Joan who appeared deep in thought. He sat down next to her. She answered him with just a sad smile. “Joan, this is a party celebrating a long and successful union between two people who love each other. It’s not the time for regrets and what ifs. What would Brian say? No apologies, no regrets. Take a page out of his book.”

“I could have gone to their commitment ceremony the first time,” Joan stated flatly. “Instead I ignored their invitation.”

“You weren’t ready to accept your son’s life back then and now you’ve become an integral part of it.”

“But a mother shouldn’t resent her own child.”

“You’re right, but you know something? Mothers are human beings just like everyone else. And human beings make mistakes. But we also have the capacity to learn from those mistakes, to grow beyond them and make amends. I think you’ve done all of those things.”

Joan remained sullen.

“Humans also have the capacity to forgive. Your son has forgiven you, I think it’s time for you to forgive yourself,” Tom wisely counseled.

Joan looked thoughtful for a moment then she turned towards Tom. He could see a smile slowly make its way across Joan’s face. He patted her hand as he glanced around at the gathered family. The restaurant was brimming with the boys’ extended family.

“On the other hand,” Tom murmured softly. “There are those who will never learn from their mistakes.” Both Tom and Joan gazed at Craig. They nodded in resignation.

 

*****
 

“Well, I think it’s rude of them to keep us all waiting,” Craig grumbled even though Bree was sitting closely on the next chair. John had set her up with some of Emmett’s delicacies and a glass of milk.

“Shhh, people will hear you,” Susan scolded as she indicated Bree with her eyes. Craig had the good sense to blush. “Besides, they were given a different time to get here so that the whole family could arrive first. You know all that.”

“Well...” Craig grumbled to himself just as the Sarah Kingsley and the Brenners were arriving.

 

*****
 

“I’m sorry madam, the restaurant is closed to the public for the night. I’m sure we can accommodate your party any other night,” the maitre’d said politely.

“But my dear friend Sarah Kingsley just went in with her family. We’re both on the Art Society Committee; we always luncheon here,” Yolanda Reynolds replied looking rather miffed. If Sarah Kingsley was invited to a special event, it stood to reason that Yolanda should have received an invitation as well.

“Grandmama, we’ll just go somewhere else. There’s that bohemian place on the other side of town. What’s it called? Oh yes, Emmett’s Place Too, that’s it. I hear they have those wonderful pear and blue cheese canapés that you like.”

“Well, this is all very vexing,” Yolanda declared. “I want to know why Sarah is here. Christopher, please go inside and ask if Sarah could join us for a moment,” Yolanda requested in such a manner that Chris could not refuse.

“Yes, ma’am,” he dutifully replied at his wife stared daggers at him. He quickly strode into the main dining room searching for his quarry. The gentle family chatter ceased almost immediately as Chris’ shadow loomed across the room. A small gasp was heard from Candy. Lindsay, JR and Gus immediately huddled close to the startled teen as Chris scanned the crowd for Sarah.

“Mrs. Kingsley, I’m sorry to intrude,” Chris stated politely. “Mrs. Reynolds is in the foyer; she’s requesting a momentary visit. May I escort you out?”

Sarah considered the request for a moment before taking the proffered elbow. As she and Chris Hobbs left the room, it became abuzz with conversation once again.

Laura turned toward her beloved grandmother and smiled sweetly. “I’m sure Christopher will be out in a minute with Mrs. Kingsley,” Laura assured her grandmother. Yolanda merely smiled.

“Oh Yolanda!” Sarah called out as she was escorted out of the main dining room. “How lovely it is to see you, my dear,” she crowed as they leaned forward to air kiss.

“Sarah, you must tell me, aren’t you always in Europe this time of year? It must be something very important to keep you here.”

“Yes, yes, it is rather special.” Sarah paused for effect.

“Oh please don’t keep me in suspense, my dear, dear friend. You know how I count on you to keep me apprized of all the social events of the season,” Yolanda urged.

“Well, it’s more of a family event, my dear. In-laws, you know how that is,” Sarah said giving Hobbs a sideways glance. “My protégé, Justin Taylor, is celebrating his tenth anniversary. His family has arranged an elaborate dinner for him. My darling grandson is married to his sister, you know, how could I refuse to be here?! And, of course my darling great-grandson is here!”

“Oh, of course you must be in attendance. But my dear, isn’t Justin Taylor gay?” Yolanda leaned in closer to whisper although she could be heard by all. “Therefore, it isn’t a legal marriage.”

“Oh, such minor details. I’ve been informed by family in the know that the young man has been in this relationship for twenty years but times being what they were they made it official ten years ago today. Oh, isn’t it exciting? Yolanda, my love, I must go back inside. The happy couple should be arriving at any moment. I really must be ready to greet them.”

“Of course, Sarah dear, family is everything. I’ll be leaving for the Riviera in a week, we must get together.”

“Of course, Yolanda. I’ll give you a ring when I’m settled.” The two matrons of society leaned in to kiss the air again then Sarah hustled herself back into the main dining room.

“Hmmph, name dropper,” Yolanda said with a note of disdain. Yolanda wasn’t amused. “Laura, what is the name of that bohemian restaurant? Oh, it doesn’t matter,” she said before she could get a reply. “Let’s just go.”

“Oh course, Grandmama. Christopher, offer Grandmama your arm!” Laura hissed at Chris. Chris dutifully did as he was told just as Brian and Justin made their entrance. The Connollys seemingly arrived at the same time. Although, they had been lying in wait as per the family’s request. Richard innocently chatted with Brian to throw him off the scent of the plot, while Morgan discreetly took pictures.

“Mr. Taylor, how lovely to see you! A mix up in our reservations brought us here on the wrong night; forgive us,” Yolanda quickly obfuscated. “Let me be the first to congratulate you on your anniversary. I hear it is a significant one that I hope all young people can achieve, and again let me say how wonderful your “Then and Now” exhibit is. Now, I mustn’t keep you. Ta ta!”

Brian and Justin stood slightly confused as they watched Yolanda Reynolds hurriedly turn to leave. Chris threw a vile look at Justin while his wife lustfully took in Brian who arched an amused brow.

“You guys certainly know how to make an entrance,” Richard commented.

“What the hell was that?” Justin asked not expecting an answer. Brian shrugged his handsome shoulders then with his hand on the small of Justin’s back, he and Justin went into the dining room.

 

*****
 

“Well, thank god!” Debbie reacted as she saw Brian and Justin enter the dining room.

“I told you they’d be here,” Emmett said proudly.

There was a round of applause as everyone realized that the two men for whom this party was being thrown had actually arrived. Brian and Justin looked slightly embarrassed by the reception.

“This feels weird,” Brian whispered to Justin. “I can’t believe they’re clapping for us. I wouldn’t have even come if I’d had my way.”

“You would have come in bed,” Justin whispered. “You’d be on top of me in bed right now if I’d let you.”

Brian snorted. “Is there any better place to be?”

“Me on top of you,” Justin suggested wickedly.

“Dada, Daddy, where have you been?” a little voice asked. “We’ve been waiting forever.” Bree tapped her little foot.

“Well, we’re here now, Squirt,” Brian said picking up his petite daughter and kissing her cheek.

“I’m glad you finally got here; I was worried,” Bree replied. She leaned over to kiss Justin. “Love you, Daddy,” she said.

“You didn’t need to worry, Squirt,” Brian said.

“I love you, Dada. I didn’t want you to miss your party.”

“We wouldn’t dream of it,” Brian said tongue in cheek. Justin gave him a swat, as Brian set Bree down.

Many of the family were milling around wanting to give Brian and Justin their congratulations on their twenty years together. No one mentioned the actual number fearing Brian’s reaction when he was reminded how big that number was.

Over at a nearby table Lindsay was trying to comfort Candy. “Are you sure you’re okay, honey?” she asked the young girl.

“What was he doing here?” Candy asked with a shudder. “He looked around the room, he looked right through me and he didn’t see me.”

“He’s an ass,” Lindsay said not mincing her words.

Candy looked sad. “I wish my mom was here,” she said softly.

“I’m so sorry he upset you,” JR said giving her friend a hug.

“I’m not upset,” Candy said straightening her spine. “He’s too stupid to realize he’s someplace where he’s not wanted.”

“And you are wanted here, Candy,” Curtis told her. He was never far from JR’s side.

“Thanks,” Candy said sincerely. “It’s great to have friends … and family.” She rested her hand on top of Lindsay’s.

“We all think of you as family,” Gus said hoping that Candy truly was all right with her father’s unexpected appearance and equally unsettling departure.

“This is supposed to be a party,” JR said trying to lighten things up. “He’s gone … and good riddance. Let’s enjoy ourselves.”

“I agree,” Curtis replied.

“You always agree with my sister, don’t you?” Gus teased.

“Well, not always,” Curtis countered, “but usually.” Everyone at the table chuckled.

“And that’s just the way it should be,” JR stated emphatically.

Everyone laughed; even Candy managed to smile. Lindsay squeezed her hand gently.

 

*****
 

“Brian,” Michael said as he finally got his turn to speak to his best friend.

“Hey, Mikey.”

“You and Justin look great,” Michael said.

Brian smiled at his friend. “Of course we do.”

“Who would believe that you’ve been with the blond twink for twenty years?”

“Has it been that long?” Brian asked facetiously. “It just seems like a few weeks.”

“Time flies when you’re having fun.”

“And when you love someone.”

Michael smiled. “That’s the way it is with Ben.”

“We’re very lucky, Mikey.”

“I know,” Michael replied as he gave Brian a big hug.

 

*****
 

“Hi, Susan, Dad,” Justin said as he walked over to his father. Bree was holding his hand and tugging him towards her Gampa.

“About time you got here,” Craig griped.

“We were told to be here at this time,” Justin replied, even though it was a lie. They were almost a half hour late.

“Well, whoever’s organizing this thing should do a better job. We’ve been waiting for ages.”

“Craig…” Susan admonished.

“But I kept you company, Gampa,” Bree reminded him as she crawled back up onto Craig’s lap.

“That’s true, sweetheart, you did,” Craig agreed as he kissed her cheek. Bree seemed always to be able to work her magic on the man.

“I’m glad Bree was able to be with you,” Justin said graciously. He was also glad Brian wasn’t beside him to hear what Craig had said. Brian was still talking to Michael. He would be pissed if he had heard Craig’s words. Justin was rather surprised that his father was there, but also pleased that Craig had made the effort, even if his attitude wasn’t the best.

“You have a wonderful turnout for your anniversary,” Susan commented.

“Yes,” Justin smiled, “it looks like everybody’s here.” He glanced around the room. “And one person that we didn’t want,” Justin added.

“You mean that criminal Chris Hobbs,” Craig stated. “I saw him stick his ugly nose in here.”

“Yeah, we met him at the entrance.”

“He has some nerve turning up here.”

“Apparently he wanted to see Sarah Kingsley.”

“Who gives a crap who he wanted to see! He should be taken out and shot.”

“Gampa, you shouldn’t say crap,” Bree cautioned her grandfather.

Justin chuckled. “That’s right, Bree, but in this case I’d have to agree with Dad.”

Father and son smiled at each other. On this one thing they could both agree.
 

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