Listen to Your Heart

Chapter 1

It was officially the start of Brian and company’s second day in their new London home.  While Brian, Bree, and Justin had quickly adjusted to the new time zone having loads of previous experience, Susanna, Ashley, and Peter were still a little jet lagged.

Hudson was patient and made allowances.

As was his habit, Brian was up with the birds. He pecked his sleeping beauty, quickly showered, donned his most comfortable clothing, grabbed his briefcase then quietly padded down to the kitchen.  Knowing that Cook’s kitchen was practically inviolate, Brian stood at the doorway awaiting permission to enter.  Cook looked up from his labors, seeing the new master of the house in a wellworn t-shirt and jeans, Cook grinned then nodded.  Brian brilliantly smiled then made himself at home at Cook’s cozy but sturdy table.  He opened his briefcase, took out a mass of folders and his laptop then got down to business.  Within moments the aroma of Brian’s favorite blend filled the air and a large mug of coffee was placed at his hand.  Brian smiled his approval and thanks; he inhaled deeply then took a sip.  Feeling human, Brian began reviewing Kinnetik’s business in earnest.

About an hour later, Brian chuckled as Kinnetik’s internal messaging program popped up displaying a large laughing emoji.  It was Gus.  He was in his own kitchen just downstairs, working on his latest projects which included the German art galleries that were preparing for a Justin Taylor exhibit.

Neither man questioned why the other was up early nor working.

Gus: ‘Mom and Charles will be flying over tomorrow.’

Brian: ‘Does she have time to visit here when they’re done in Germany?’

Gus: ‘I think so.’

Brian: ‘Invite her.’

Gus: ‘I will.  BTW, starting tomorrow Ray and I are going to play hooky for a few days.  We want to spend some time with everyone.’

Brian: ‘We’d love that, especially Bree.  Review the German project with her; you know she’s interested.’

Gus: ‘I will.  Love you, Pop.  We’ll be home for dinner.’

Brian: ‘Love you, Sonny Boy.  Later.’

Gus: ‘Later.’

“Cook, Gus and Ray will be joining us for dinner,” said Brian.

“Very good, sir,” Cook replied as he continued preparing breakfast.

“Will there be porridge,” Brian asked regarding breakfast.

“Of course, sir, but I leave that to Hudson.”

“Yes,” said Brian and right on cue, Hudson entered the kitchen laden with several binders.  Brian jumped up to help her.  “What’s all this?”

“We took the liberty of documenting all the renovations, repairs, upgrades, and any other changes that were made to the house, park, and the garage.  Each floor of the house is contained within its own binder.  The binders will be housed in the library pending your approval.”

“This is amazing,” Brian said in awe of the detailed work.  He reverentlyopened a binder titled main floor then slowly flipped through dozens of pictures and the notations for each one.

“I must confess, I cannot take much credit for them,” admitted Hudson.

“Let me guess, Gus and Ray,” Brian stated.

“Correct, sir.  The young masters took charge of the whole endeavor.  However, they did include us, meaning myself, Cook, and the rest of the staff.  Gus and Raymond wanted to make sure each room was documented correctly, using the proper names and labels as such,” said Hudson.  She went on to explain the whole process.  The documentation included the park and the garage.

As Brian continued examining each binder and each room, he noted the absence of certain items.  “Hudson, I seem to recall there were tapestries hanging in the drawing room and library.”

“Yes, sir, there were, several,” Hudson stated with a pained expression.  Brian noticed.

“What is it?” he asked.

“Sir, I’ve had experience with tapestries in the past.  Their maintenance alone takes up a large percentage of the household budget, not to mention the amount of dust they accumulate if not properly cleaned on a regular basis.  The young masters thought it prudent to have each one evaluated then sold or auctioned off.  Gus consulted Mr. Charles Higgins regarding the value of each tapestry and the best auction houses to deal with them.  Raymond contacted the estate agent and went over the minute details of the sale especially the disposal and disposition of any remaining property that was left in the home.”

“Of course, he did,” murmured Brian.  Hudson and Cook wore curious expressions.  “Ray is not only a superb business lawyer; he grew up in the real estate industry.  His father is a real estate agent in New York City.  And he’s very involved in my own properties in Pittsburgh.”

“I see,” remarked Hudson.  “There was one small tapestry that Mr. Higgins suggested we keep.  He took it upon himself to have it professionally cleaned and conserved as necessary.  Then he had it framed so that it would be easy to maintain.  He wants you to consider it as a welcome to the neighborhood gift.  It was rehung where it was found in the library.”  Hudson pointed to a picture of an extremely colorful tapestry of bold peacocks in a lush floral garden.  The vibrant colors stood out against the brown wooden paneling of the library walls.

Brian burst out laughing.  “That man has a wicked sense of humor,” Brian exclaimed.

“You approve then, sir?” Cook asked.

“Yes, I do.  I probably would’ve done the same if I was here at the time.  Justin has extreme allergies,” Brian explained.  “The dust alone would’ve made his life miserable.  You’ve all gone above and beyond with this house.  You’ve made this house a true home and we thank you,” Brian sincerely stated.

“Sir, the proceeds from the sale of all items were incorporated back into the household budget, cross referenced and itemized in this ledger by Raymond,” Hudson said as she handed a separated book to Brian.  “The young masters have digitized everything, copies of which are stored in the safe and back up copies have been sent to Mr. Schmidt.  All have been encrypted and password protected.  Cook and I have access, since some work is still ongoing.”

“Excellent, you’ve all surpassed my expectations,” Brian declared.

Cook topped off Brian’s coffee mug as Hudson handed Brian one last binder.  “I think you’ll find this one especially interesting,” said Hudson with a smirk.

The cover insert held a pencil drawing of a skull and crossbones as opposed to the formal typed out titles the other binders displayed.  Brian giggled at Gus’ playfulness.  Again, there were before and after pictures just like the other binders contained.  But this binder included fold-out maps indicating passageways, entrances, and exits.

“When did they find the time to do all this?  They must have sounded like a pack of rats in the walls!”

“Nearly frightened the life out of one of the maids when they popped out of a hidden door in the ground floor drawing room,” said Hudson.

“Justin and Bree are going to love exploring,” said Brian.

“Gus said the same thing,” Cook noted.

“As you can see, sir, Gus pointed out some structural defects that required immediate attention.  We limited any staff access until safety was assured.  Gus and Ray supervised the installation of motion sensor lights and directional signs so that one would not get lost.”  Hudson indicated the quirky and humorous small placards attached to the walls of the passages.  “Mr. Higgins is not the only one with a wicked sense of humor,” Hudson stated with a mischievous smile.

“That’s for sure,” Brian agreed.  “Did they document all the passageways on each floor?”

“Yes, and the connecting staircases.  There are several narrow staircases connecting each floor so that one does not have to use the main staircase.  This was very common back when staff was not to be seen by family and guests,” Hudson explained.  Brian nodded with understanding.

“Is this the elevator shaft?”  Brian pointed out a strange void on the map.

“Yes, sir, very astute of you,” said Hudson.

“I’m not just another pretty face,” Brian snarked.  “It looks like there were doors that opened up to it when it was the old staircase.  Have they been boarded up?”

“Yes and no.  They are no longer full doors but have been made into access panels for elevator maintenance.  They have special locks on them to prevent tampering and injuries,” Hudson said.  “Gus also had Ms. Renaud make an assessment.  The security system has been updated to include the hidden stairs and the elevator shaft,” Hudson informed Brian.  Brian noted that bit of information; it was something he would have done.

“Gus also found a dumb waiter,” Cook added.  “It connects this kitchen to the kitchen on the ground floor.”

“Sounds very convenient.  Hudson, Gus and Ray will be home for dinner tonight and are taking a few days off from work,” said Brian.

“Very good, sir, we shall make note of this.  Shall you be requiring a more formal dinner tonight in the family dining room?” Hudson asked with a twinkle in her eye.

“I believe that will be satisfactory,” Brian replied formally.

“Sir, if I might have a word,” Hudson began as she freshened up Brian’s coffee.  Cook placed a small dish of thick toasted bread next to his mug.

Brian raised a suspicious eyebrow.

“Sir, the gentlemen occupying the guest suite in the young masters’ apartment,” Hudson began.  Brian immediately pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Have they been a nuisance?”

“Not at all, sir.  In fact, we haven’t seen them since they first arrived and the young masters introduced them to us,” said Hudson.

“But they’ve been here nearly two weeks!”

“Yes, sir,” Hudson said.

“Holy fu…uh,” Brian caught himself.  “Are they okay?  Do we know if they’re still alive down there?”

“We have evidence of life,” Hudson quipped.

“Dishes, sir,” Cook explained.  “Meals have been provided, hearty appetites them two.  Empty dishes have been returned to the kitchen and washed.”

Brian just shook his head.

“Sir, our concerns are of a more practical nature,” Hudson delicately began.

“Go on,” said Brian with a loud sigh.

“The laundry and cleaning of the rooms.  The lower house maid has been unable to perform any proper cleaning of the suite since the gentlemen’s arrival.”  The comment caused another fit of the giggles from Brian as he remembered a similar comment made about him when Brian had taken Justin to the Piece of Plenty B & B.

“Leave it to me,” reassured Brian.  “And expect the gentlemen for dinner.  Would that give the maids enough time to spruce up the place?”

“Yes, sir!”  Hudson replied with a confident smile.  “And would sir, like a proper breakfast,” Hudson asked as she checked the time.

“Thank you, Hudson, I’ll wait to eat with the family.  Bree and Justin like watching me eat.  They seem to be under the misapprehension that I’m too thin,” said Brian as he patted his trim waistline.

“Very good, sir.  Breakfast will be served in the family dining room within the hour,” Hudson announced.

“Will porridge be on the menu?” Brian asked as he finished off his coffee and packed up his briefcase.

“Of course, sir!”

“Thank you,” said Brian to Hudson and an appreciative nod to Cook.

*****

“Wakey, wakey,” Brian sing-songed to Justin.  Justin was half awake when Brian came back to their suite.  “Breakfast in the family dining room,” he announced.

“Do I have time for a shower?” Justin asked as he stretched.

“Plenty of time.  Breakfast will be ready within the hour as per Hudson,” Brian informed his spouse. 

“Does Bree know?”

“Yep, she’s up, dressed and in the process of herding the rest of the gang,” Brian proudly stated.

“And how long have you been awake?”  Justin gave Brian the side eye as he slipped out of bed and into their ensuite bathroom.

“Hm, what is time?” Brian philosophized as he followed his spouse.  “Isn’t it all relative?”

“Which is Brian-speak for, you’ve been up before the birds and working.  Bri, we’re on vacation,” Justin said as he stepped into the shower.  Brian quickly lost his clothes to join Justin.

“I know, Sunshine.  I was just reviewing.  None of what I’ve done will interfere with our vacation.  I promise.”

As the lovers took turns bathing one another, Brian told Justin of the binders.  Justin was looking forward to seeing them.  And equally happy to hear that Lindsay might be coming for a visit. Their new house was truly going to be a family home.

While they were drying off and preparing to get dressed, they heard the first breakfast warning bell.  Soon they joined the scurrying of feet hurrying down the main staircase and toward the family dining room.

Breakfast wasn’t a formal affair.  However, elegant chafing dishes lined the sideboard, each holding a different breakfast offering.  Carafes of freshly brewed coffee, tea, milk, cream, and a variety of juices were available.  Another small table held dishes and silverware.  Everyone helped themselves and sat wherever they pleased.  Bree happily sat down with her plate containing a small portion of scrambled eggs and two strips of bacon.

“Is that all you’re eating ?” Susanna asked.

“Nope,” Bree replied with a grin.  Within moments Hudson appeared at the door holding a bowl of porridge, placing it in front of the petite young lady on her placemat.  “Thank you, Hudson,” Bree said with a smile.

“You are most welcome, young miss,” replied Hudson.

“Hudson, are you hiding any more porridge in the kitchen,” Justin asked, giving the woman a coy smile and slowly batting his eyes.

“Of course, sir,” said Hudson as she immediately left the room then promptly returned with another bowl.

“Thank you so much, Hudson,” Justin sincerely stated.

“Please ring the bell if you require anything else,” said Hudson as she left the room, shutting the door behind her.

Brian sat next to his spouse, placed his somewhat loaded plate on his placemat then turned to lean into Justin.  “Both the smile and the eyes, Sunshine?”

“Hey, for Hudson’s porridge, what’s a little flirting,” Justin said before devouring his porridge.  Brian searched for guidance in the ceiling.  Finding none, he concentrated on his own breakfast.

About an hour later as breakfast was waning, Hudson returned with an assistant and a trolley to begin removing the chafing dishes and other breakfast things.  With the last of the coffee and tea served, Hudson posed a question.

“Might I have a word?” she asked as she handed a letter to Brian.  Brian leaned closer to Justin so they could read it together.

“What am I looking at?” Brian asked.

“This is a letter from a neighboring housekeeper inquiring if the new owners would be following the old tradition.”

“What tradition is that?” asked Justin.

“Every other year the owner of this estate would host a neighborhood fete.  The guests were the owners of the surrounding properties,” Hudson explained, showing Brian a map of the area and the homes that were included.

“And is this just for the owners?” Justin asked.   He wasn’t too keen on discrimination based on rank.

“No, sir, families and staff are included.  The homes involved must be limited or else you’ll have all of greater London marching through the park.  The limits were set hundreds of years ago and are based on former land boundaries,” Hudson further explained.

“When does this fete take place?” asked Brian.

“Usually the second week of August.”

“We don’t have much time, we’ll be going home soon after,” Justin said.

“Please get more information by dinnertime if possible and we’ll discuss it tonight,” Brian asked.

“Very good, sir,” said Hudson then she exited the room.

“It does sound interesting, sort of a neighborhood block party,” Justin said.

“Yeah, with one hell of a large block.  Listen, I have a task to perform for Hudson.  I’ll be back in a few minutes.  Find out what the troops want to do today.”

“No problem,” said Justin.  He grabbed Brian by the lapels of his shirt bringing him down to his level then planted a searing kiss on Brian’s lips.  “Love you.”

“I know.”

*****

As Justin was discussing the plans for the day with the family, Brian marched himself to the ground floor, found the suite Ben and his guest were inhabiting then pounded loudly on the sitting room door.

“I know you’re in there, Professor, this is your wake-up call!”  The walls were solid and the wooden door thick but Brian could just make out some voices coming from within the room.

“Geez, Brian, are you trying to wake the dead?” Ben asked, his chest heaving as he swung open the door. 

Brian took notice of the state of dress or undress of his muscular friend and his companion.  Ben was clothed, sort of, in his boxer briefs and t-shirt that was two sizes too small, inside out and backwards.  Armand, bare chested, was desperately trying to hold up a pair of sleep pants that were obviously too large for his thinner frame.

“May I?” Brian asked as he barged in.  He inhaled.  “It smells like a backroom in here,” Brian stated, very familiar with the heady aroma of testosterone.

“You ought to know,” Ben snarked. 

Ignoring the remark, Brian stomped his way over to a thick set of drapes, and pulling them aside, he threw open the floor to ceiling doors to let in the air.  The short balcony offered a view of the bustling city and cobbled streets.  The guys appeared stunned.

“You’ve been fucking for weeks in these rooms and you never thought to open a window?” Brian asked as he shook his head.

“Didn’t realize there was one,” Ben replied honestly.

“Well, now you know.”  Brian shook his head.

“Are you kicking us out?” asked Ben.

“Fuck no, just inviting you and your friend to dinner tonight,” said Brian as he arched a brow at Armand.  “Consider this a summons you can’t refuse.  I’ve been informed that your activities have been interfering with the daily cleaning schedule around here.  The ladies in charge of this floor would appreciate access.” 

Ben and Armand had the good graces to blush.

“Dinner is at seven; there will be a five minute warning gong.  Attire is business casual, so no jeans,” Brian informed them as his eyes scrutinized the two embarrassed men.  Both were physically fit and very attractive.  ‘Another time, another place,’ Brian thought to himself.

“Brian…” Ben hesitated.

“Ben, no judgments, no apologies, no regrets,”  Brian became instantly serious.  “You deserve to be happy, to feel loved and appreciated.  You both do.  You’re welcome to stay for as long as you wish, just get outside a little more.  You’re both looking a little pasty.  And for fuck’s sake, open a window once in a while.  Oh, and remember to hide any toys.  We wouldn’t want to give the staff the wrong ideas.  This is a respectable home,” Brian reminded them.

As Brian went to the door he heard a familiar voice call out his name.  “Ah, my master’s voice,” said Brian.  “Coming, Sunshine,” he called out.  “Remember, dinner at seven, be punctual.  We want to keep on Hudson’s good side, don’t we?” That was Brian’s last advice to the boys.

The boys nodded then followed Brian to the suite door and out into the hall.  Brian’s long legs brought him to the main hall within a few short strides where he met Justin standing there waiting.  The sunlight filtering through the window above the main entry door surrounded Justin making him appear to glow with radiance.

“Sunshine?” Armand asked Ben who indicated that Armand should watch.

“Sunshine,” Brian said softly as he gently pushed a lock of golden hair away from Justin’s eyes.  “You are so beautiful.  I love you,” whispered Brian then he swept his love into his arms for a proper kiss.  When Justin was released, he was in full sunshine smile mode.

“Soleil brille,” commented Armand with understanding.

“Yes,” Ben commented as he shut the door.

*****

“All good?” Justin asked.

“All good,” Brian confirmed.  “Ben and his French fry will be joining us for dinner.”

“Don’t call him that,” Justin barely reprimanded.

“Yes, dear.  And what shall we do today.  It’s actually sunny outside.”

“Yes, it is and since we have a large park in our own backyard and may possibly host a garden party, I thought we should explore said park,” Justin stated logically.

“That 1500 score on your SAT’s was well deserved,” teased Brian.  “Where are the troops?”

“Just outside the back door, sire, awaiting your inspection,” said Justin with a grin.

“Let’s not keep them waiting,” said Brian as he followed Justin through a hidden door, down a passage that led to another door that opened onto a vestibule near the back door.  “Wow, it may take us years to explore all the passageways.”

“Luckily we have very detailed maps,” Justin beamed.

“That we do, Sunshine.” 

The boys met Susanna and the kids in their own private car park standing just outside the tall gates that surrounded their park.  Using their private code, Justin opened the gate, and they all walked in.

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