Gift 9: part 1

[mander3-swish.livejournal.com]

TO: tagsit
FROM: addict_writer
TITLE: Last Christmas
GIFT REQUEST: Fic. hurt/comfort. Brian/Justin please
NOTE: Inspired by the song Last Christmas from Wham, also I wrote this after watching Call Me By Your Name.


Seventeen-year-old Justin Taylor was a big fan of snow, only if he was inside his room and looking out the window at the flakes falling out of the sky.

For this year’s holiday, his parents thought it would be fun to accept the invitation of a friend of Craig Taylor's, to spend a couple of weeks in Aspen. It was too fancy and cold for Justin.

They arrived in the early afternoon and carried all their bags in the gondola station, waiting for Craig's friend to arrive.

Justin wandered away from his family, stopping at a picture window showing the mountains. He pulled out his phone, took a picture, and sent it to his best friend. Not a minute later, his phone pinged with a heart eyes emoticon.

Justin smiled, deciding to call Daphne instead of engaging her in a long string of messages.

“Justin! That’s so beautiful!”

“And I didn’t even get to the hotel. We’re at the gondolas, waiting for Dad’s friend.”

“You’re so lucky. Just enjoy the time you spend there,” Daphne reminded him.

“It’s so freaking cold, Daph!”

“I bet it will be warm inside the hotel room.”

“I sure hope so, because I don’t plan on leaving it. Though, this panorama inspires me and I might draw so I won’t get too bored,” Justin admitted. “Shit.” He turned to his mother when she called his name. “Mom’s calling me.”

“Keep me updated!” Daphne said cheerfully.

Justin shuffled to his mom’s side. A handsome man was talking to his dad a few feet away. His mom smiled, rubbing his back over the fluffy winter jacket.

“Are we ready?” Justin asked, impatiently. “I hope I have my own room at the hotel. I’m not sharing with Mollusk.” He shot his younger sister a dirty look. They usually got paired up when the family had trips.

“We’re not staying at a hotel, honey. Your father’s friend invited us to stay at one of the cabanas up in the mountains.”

Justin could feel his world crumbling and disintegrating. He was ready to put up a huge fight and take the train back home.

They were staying at a cabana?

What the fuck?

“Will there be a signal?”

“Don’t be a drama princess,” his mom chided him lightly.

Justin snorted. If only she knew. Justin barely had the courage to admit to himself he liked men, but not to anyone else. Daphne suspected it, but she never commented on it.

“And this is my son, Justin.” His dad waved him over, introducing him to the handsome man. “Justin, this is the man who designed the ad for our store – Brian Kinney.”

“My team takes the credit. I just gave them the green light,” Brian said. He offered his hand to Justin. “Nice to meet you.”

Justin imagined that Brian's hand lingered and his thumb caressed the inside of Justin's wrist.

An elegant woman stopped by Brian's side, and when he introduced her as Lindsay and wrapped an arm around her middle, Justin was sure his imagination had played tricks.

He was just a sexually frustrated teenage boy who happened to like men.

They were apparently going to wait even longer for some of Brian's friends. Justin pulled out his phone and scrolled through Facebook, but it was short-lived.

“Honey, allow your sister to play something on your phone. Her tablet is in the bag. She’s bored,” his mom suggested, bringing Molly to his side.

Justin scowled at his eight-year-old sister. She pouted, giving him her best pleading look. Unfortunately, she had no idea it didn’t work with Justin.
“Are you kidding me?” Justin scoffed. “No way! Give her your phone.” He went back to his scrolling.

“You have nicer games,” Molly begged.

“They’re mine. You won’t mess with my new levels.”

“Jus, please!”

Justin realized too late his mom had abandoned them, going to talk to Brian's girlfriend. Groaning loudly, Justin pulled up some arcade game he didn’t care for and handed his phone to his sister.

He stuffed his hands deep inside his winter jacket, glaring at the entrance doors willing Brian's friends to arrive already.

Not long later, though it felt like an eternity for Justin, a loud group burst through the doors.

Brian excused himself from Justin's dad, going to them.

Justin forgot about being miserable. Those people couldn't be his friends. They were the most colorful and eccentric group of people Justin had ever seen. Two of the men in the group were definitely a couple, because they were holding hands. One of the two appeared to be embarrassed by the other three people, but when he noticed Brian, his face lit up and he rushed to hug him.

The other three were two men who couldn’t have been more different even if they tried. One was conservatively dressed in brown pants, dark coat, and black winter hat, while the other had on baby blue ski pants, a neon yellow with pink lines parka, and a fringe pompom beanie. The other person in their group was a woman, dressed similar to the reservedly dressed man. She appeared to be good friends with Brian's girlfriend because they hugged tightly, smiling at each other.

Justin snatched his phone from Molly, earning a loud cry of protest.

Then Brian approached Justin's family, introducing his friends. The gay couple was Michael and Ben. Justin noticed his father giving them a disgusted look, but still shaking their hands out of respect for his friend. The conservatively dressed guy was Ted, and the other was Emmett. The woman was named Melanie, and Justin could tell Brian wasn’t her biggest fan. She was Ted’s best friend and a good friend of Lindsay’s, as it turned out.

Brian wandered away to instruct someone to take all their bags to the cabana, before they went to the gondolas. Luckily, they couldn’t all fit in one vehicle. Justin allowed his parents and sister to get inside the first gondola, along with Lindsay and her friend. Ben and Michael embarked as well when the guy handling the safety of transportation said one or two more could get in.

His mom waved him inside, but the man shook his head, saying the gondola had reached the capacity. Justin gave his mom a small wave, sighing in relief. Though, he was surprised Brian had allowed his girlfriend to go without him.

They had to wait five more minutes until the next one arrived and was ready for them.

“I don’t understand why Mikey and Ben decided to squeeze in there when they could have waited,” Brian commented.

“I think Michael is still upset about the other night,” Emmett explained.

Brian threw him a disgusted look. “It’s not my fault he can’t handle the truth.”

Ted glanced at Justin, who quickly looked away from the group of friends. He didn’t want to appear like he was listening in on their private conversation, but he didn’t have anywhere else to go.

“Maybe he’s right. You need to tone it down, Bri. You’re going to have a kid, for Christ’s sake!”

“Not you too!” Brian groaned. “Finally.” He was the first to step on their gondola.

Justin and the other two followed close behind. Thankfully, they were the only ones in the vehicle.

Justin glued himself to the window. His brain tried processing what he was hearing from the guys next to him. Brian was going to be a father. He couldn’t tell Lindsay was pregnant, but her winter jacket was too fluffy for that to be visible.

“I’m just saying,” Ted said quietly. “Less nights spent clubbing.”

“He’s not even going to live with me,” Brian snapped. “I’ll make a cameo appearance at the most important events of his life to be there to provide a masculine influence every young boy needs in their life. God forbid what damage these two cunts can do to a him.”

Justin couldn’t stay quiet any longer. “You’re going to have a baby and you don’t plan on being in his life? What kind of a shitty father are you?”

“Ooooh!” Emmett exclaimed.

Justin realized he’d been out of line, as he didn’t even know Brian. He had no right to talk to him like that, but he had his relationship with his dad as an example. It had been the best father-son relationship in the world, until Craig realized his son wasn’t into sports or golf or remotely interested in following in his career footsteps. It had gone downhill from there.

“First of all, you don’t know a damn thing about my life. Second of all, what I do with my life or the people in it, is my damn business!”

“Sorry,” Justin mumbled, turning to the window. He hated being scolded, especially when he knew he’d overstepped a line he shouldn’t have crossed from the beginning.

He tried focusing on the white landscape, but his vision blurred. Angry and guilty tears threatened to spill out of his eyes.

“Look what you’ve done! Poor baby is crying!” Emmett walked to Justin, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. “Why must you be so crass, Brian? He doesn’t know what’s going on. If you can’t take a kid’s honest opinion about how screwed up you are, then keep your mouth shut!”

Justin bit his tongue to keep himself from saying he wasn’t a kid.

“Fuck off, Honeycutt!”

Emmett ignored Brian, whispering to Justin that Brian appeared to be a brute, but he was actually a gentle and caring human being.

“I can hear you! This thing isn’t as big as you might think,” Brian grunted, taking a seat in one of the designated spots.

“Is it going to be a long ride?” Justin mumbled, unconsciously leaning into Emmett's side.

“Thirty minutes,” Ted answered, leaning against one of the walls.

“So how did you escape school for two weeks?” Emmett asked curiously.

“I’ve got good grades and I’m already way ahead of everyone in class.”

“Not even modest,” Ted joked.

“I wish I wasn’t, so I wouldn’t be here,” Justin grumbled. “Mom insisted and the principal was more than happy to allow me to leave early.”

“Must suck being so smart,” Brian said.

Justin was surprised to see Brian looking at him, studying him. He had no idea what to answer to that comment, so he kept his mouth shut.

He looked at the slopes and the evergreens covered in snow. “Tell me there’s going to be heat where we’re going. And signal. And running water.”

“We wouldn’t go there if these things didn’t exist. Brian wouldn’t be caught dead in some primitive place,” Emmett explained.

“Why not have all the comfort you need, when you can?” Brian asked, taking his beanie off. He ran a hand through his hair, craning his neck making it pop.

“Rough night?” Ted asked amused.

“I spent the night with the girls. Melanie was kind enough to let me take care of Lindsay. I still think she’s insane for coming here.”

“She wanted to spend Christmas with us. It’s not every year when we all synchronize our holidays.” Emmett grinned. “It’s going to be fabulous!”

Brian cringed. “All I can see is Lindsay’s water breaking at some inappropriate time and me rushing her to the hospital. Horrible way to spend Christmas.”

“And if she and Mel stayed back, you wouldn’t get to meet your son if she gave birth while you were here,” Ted reasoned.

“I’d have met him when I returned to glorious Pittsburgh.”

Their ride ended shortly after that conversation, and Justin was the first to jump out of the gondola. He started off in the completely wrong direction, though no direction looked good. He couldn’t see a cabana in sight.

Brian put a hand on his shoulder, steering him the other way. “No wandering away, Sonny Boy.”

“I was…” Justin trailed off, caught by surprise when Emmett threw himself on the snow-covered ground and created a perfect angel.

Brian scowled in disgust, but wasn’t quick enough to catch Justin before he joined Emmett.

“Come on, Ted. Before night falls. Leave the kids behind.”

“Don’t be a party pooper! I know you secretly want to do the same!” Emmett called after Brian. He got up, helping Justin to his feet.

They started after the other two.

“Yeah right. And ruin my Prada coat?” Brian snorted.

“He’s such a label queen,” Emmett whispered to Justin, who started laughing.

“Whatever Honeycutt told you is a lie!” Brian shouted over his shoulder, which made Justin double over in laughter.

The more time he spent with these guys, the more he liked them. Especially Brian, who he now understood, wasn’t involved with Lindsay. She was just having his child. And if he got it right, Lindsay was Melanie’s girlfriend.

Justin couldn’t wait until his father discovered he was surrounded by homosexuals. He was curious how Craig would act, knowing he despised queers.

They reached a fenced area.

“Are we trespassing?” Justin asked agitatedly, when he saw Brian and Ted jumping over the fence or climbing in between the bars.

“The gate is over there, and it’s most likely stuck,” Brian explained, pointing in a different direction, before dusting off the snow from his coat and beanie, then putting it back on his head.

“Are we getting any closer?” Justin whined, after getting on the other side of the fence.

Emmett touched his chin, tilting it up. Justin felt foolish for looking only at the ground, but he was afraid he’d step in some deeper snow pile and sink.

The log cabana was huge. Steam was rising in the air from three large chimneys. Brian thumped his boots on the threshold carpet, then opened the door.

The first thing that hit Justin was the warmth, then the smell of some liquor.

“Honey, you made it!” His mom rushed over.

“Moooom,” Justin protested, embarrassed beyond belief.

“We made the room allocations,” Lindsay said from the doorway of the kitchen.

Now that she wasn’t wearing her coat, it was glaringly clear she was pregnant. She was close to term, as Brian had said. Justin knew those things, because he’d seen his mother when she had Molly.

“I hope I still have my favorite room,” Brian told her, taking his boots off and then his coat. “Are you going to keep your jacket on?” He turned to Justin.

Justin shook his head, slowly undressing, while Lindsay ran over the room allocation plan. Justin heard what he’d feared – he was sharing with Molly.

“Isn’t there any other room free? I’ll sleep on the couch, really. I don’t mind.”

“Justin. Don’t make a scene,” his mom chided him.

“There’s a small room next to mine. It only has a twin bed and a dresser, and we’ll have to share a bathroom,” Brian said.

“I don’t care, as long as I don’t have to share with Molly.”

“It’s no problem, Jennifer,” Brian said, before Justin's mom could scold her son some more. “Where’s everyone else at the moment?” He raised an eyebrow at Lindsay.

“Mel’s in the kitchen with Ben, working on a snack. Michael is on the phone with Debbie.”

“Come on, honey. I’ll show you to Molly’s room. She’s in there with her tablet. Your dad installed her in there earlier.” Jennifer tried to steer Justin to the stairs.

“What part of 'I’m not sharing with Molly' don’t you get, Mom? I’m almost eighteen! No way in hell I’m sleeping in the same bed as her!”

“It’s no trouble for him to have that room next to mine,” Brian added.

“I didn’t think to give anyone that room because it was so small and has no TV, and there’s the joint bathroom,” Lindsay explained.

“I don’t mind,” Justin insisted.

Brian jerked his head. “Come on. I’ll show you.”

“Where’s Molly’s room? I have to grab my things.” Justin stopped on the stairs, and turned to his mother.

“Third door to the left.”

At the top of the stairs, Brian stopped. “We’re the last doors on the right.” He pointed in that direction. “Yours is the one at the end of the corridor, mine is on the right. It’s a corner bathroom. You’ll like it.”

“Is there a hot tub?” Justin asked, hopefully.

“The only one.” Brian winked, leaving him standing there dumbfounded.

Justin wondered if he had the nerve to make a move and see if Brian liked him, because it was clear he was queer.

In what would have been his room, Justin found his sister on the bed. She was focused on whatever game she was playing, but she noticed him picking up his bags.

“You’re not staying?” Her lips quivered.

“No. I’ll have my own room. If you get scared, you have Mr. Frog.” Justin extracted the lumpy toy from a bag, tossing it to her.

Justin arrived at the other end of the hallway, and halted. He’d forgotten the door Brian had told him that led to his room. He tried the one of his right, and gasped.

Brian was standing in the middle of a large room in only boxer briefs.

Justin hoped he wasn’t drooling. Brian had an incredible body, toned abs, strong legs, and through the dark underwear, it was clearly visible that he was packing.

“Is your door locked? Shit.” Brian waved him inside his room.

Justin couldn’t find his voice to say he’d made a mistake.

Brian led him to the bathroom, waving around, smiling like a child.

“Whoa!” Justin's eyes widened at the spacious bathroom. There was indeed a hot tub on a raised surface. There was also a large shower stall, two sinks, and a toilet. Next to the shower was a heater for towels.

“Fancy, huh?” Brian smirked, opening another door. “And this is your room.” He walked over to the heater and checked if it was working, then turned the key in the room’s door. “Should have known.”

Justin breathed a sigh of relief, that the door had been locked.

Brian handed him the key. “Make yourself at home.”

Justin stared after him, surprised he hadn’t been lectured about walking into Brian's room without knocking and finding him undressed, or being told about how to use the bathroom since they were sharing. It was clear Brian didn’t have modesty issues, and with that body, Justin was sure he shouldn’t have.

oOo

Brian shut the bathroom door leading to his room, and was surprised to find his best friend at the foot of his bed.

“Mikey! Are you done avoiding me?”

“I never avoided you! I know you’ll never change, all I wanted to say is that you should start thinking responsibly.”

“I’m going to abstain for two whole weeks! That’s longer than I’ve ever gone without any since… my first time.”

“It might do you some good.” Michael nodded in approval.

Brian shrugged. He was already thinking of the young man in the room next to his. Justin seemed interested, though there were no clear signs.

Knowing Craig Taylor, poor kid was probably afraid to talk about his sexuality or make his desires known. Brian had known Craig for a little over a year, and from moment one, he’d found out what a homophobe the man was. They had met at a downtown restaurant where they had been seated next to a gay couple. Craig had gone as far as to ask the waiter loudly to find them another table, then for half of their business luncheon, he’d complained about gay people showing off their abnormal life in public.

Brian had needed Craig’s business, and to this day he had no idea why they were still friends. Aside from his clear hatred for gay people, Craig was a nice, smart, wealthy man. He owned the largest electronics store chain in Pittsburgh, and was thinking of extending to the whole state of Pennsylvania.

Brian was truly curious of what Craig's reaction would be when he found out he was going to spend his holiday around people he hated.

“Brian!” Michael shouted his name, snapping his fingers in front of his face.

“Huh?”

“I’ve been asking if you ever planned on getting dressed to head downstairs.”

“Right. I need a shower, then I’ll be there.” Brian steered Michael to his door, showing him out.

For his shower, Brian didn’t bother closing the door that led to Justin's room all the way. The kid was probably already downstairs.

While under the hot spray, Brian became aware of a figure outside the foggy glass.

“Sorry! I just had to piss really bad!” Justin shouted.

“You don’t have to shout. I can hear you just fine.”

Brian decided to give the kid a show and washed his body slowly. He heard Justin curse a couple of times, before scurrying out of the bathroom. He chuckled softly, amused at how easy he could get under the kid’s skin.

When Brian ventured downstairs, everyone was spread out around the spacious living room. Craig was on his laptop, ignoring the others.

“Feeling all right?” Brian stopped behind Lindsay, leaning over the couch to touch her stomach. He couldn’t stop his instincts to make sure she and the baby were okay.

She smiled up at him, rubbing his forearm. “We’re fine, Brian. He’s kicking up a storm.”

“I can feel him.”

Melanie stared at him as if she’d never seen him before, but it was hard for her to believe he could be human. Brian wondered if they’d ever tolerate each other, for the sake of their child.

Emmett fluttered into the room, handing Brian a mug of steaming mulled wine. He accepted the drink, walking over to a futon near the windowsill, opposite to where Justin was curled up on one. The kid was looking out the window, holding a notepad against his chest, lost in thought.

“Craig, I hope you’re not working,” Brian joked, stretching his legs in front of him.

“I can’t leave my business behind. I’m sure you understand.”

“Oh, trust me. I understand, but Theodore can confirm I haven’t brought anything work-related on this trip.”

“Except your phone,” Ted, the traitor, mumbled.

“All my emails are set up with an out-of-office alert, but I’ve signed out of the work email from my phone. I actually plan on enjoying these two weeks,” Brian explained.

“Hear that Craig?” Jennifer asked, hoping her husband would follow in his friend’s footsteps.

“If you all must know, I’m sending one last email with details on what they should do in my absence,” Craig explained, sounding exasperated.

Brian relaxed on the futon, drinking from his mug, watching his friends. He rarely did the sitting quietly and observing, but this was one of the times that called for it.

Michael and Ben were curled into each other on a loveseat near the fireplace. Brian couldn’t be happier for his best friend. Michael had finally found someone to love him, and at the same time, Brian was happy that by finding someone, Michael was letting go of his obsession. Since high school, Michael had tried to convince Brian they’d make a great couple, but Brian never saw him as more than a confidant, a friend, and sometimes a shoulder to cry on.

Michael had been there through good and bad for Brian. He’d been there through the horrid last few years Brian had spent in his parents’ house, but truly, since they’d become friends, Brian had spent most of his nights at the Novotnys’ place.

Michael's mom, Debbie, had guessed there was trouble at Brian's house and had always welcomed him in their home.

Then Michael had endured the years through Brian's college when they were separated, but met as regularly as possible. He’d been there when Brian had found himself a job, when Brian had moved into his loft, and he kept being there through all the successes and failures in Brian's life.

In turn, Brian had been there for Michael when he’d decided to give up his job at Q Mart and buy a comic books store. Buzzy, the owner, was leaving state and he planned on abandoning the store. Michael was a great fan of comic books. Brian had told him he was insane, then turned around and helped him sell a first edition Captain Astro issue that he’d bought Michael for his birthday.

Not long after reopening the comic book store, Ben had ventured inside, interested in superheroes and whether or not gay superheroes existed. Michael had been beside himself to explain all about his passion, only to find out Ben was a university professor, and he now wanted Michael to attend one of his classes and talk to the students about comic books.

Brian had encouraged their blooming romance, until he’d found out Ben was positive. Though, after seeing the way Debbie had reacted, he’d given it some thought and decided to encourage his best friend when his own mother was suddenly against his happiness. Slowly, Debbie accepted that her son was dating an HIV positive man, which hit too close to home. Her brother Vic was HIV positive as well, and he lived with her since he’d discovered he had the virus. There had been some tough times, and she didn’t want Michael to go through something like that, but love is above rational thought.

Brian moved his eyes to the main couch where Lindsay and Melanie sat there with Jennifer and Molly. They were engaged in a talk about babies. Jennifer was doing a stellar job at embarrassing her daughter. Thankfully, Justin wasn’t paying attention to what his mother was saying, and he was too far away to hear.

Brian still couldn’t believe how his college friend had convinced him to have a baby together. Brian and Lindsay had met during their first year at Carnegie Mellon. Lindsay was the only woman Brian had ventured to sleep with, albeit he was high and drunk, and sadly that night together, gave Lindsay ideas. Brian had explained the following morning that he had no idea what had come over him and there wasn’t going to be a repeat. Thankfully, they stayed friends, and Brian helped Lindsay explore her interest in women.

She met Melanie on the college yard. Being an artist, she’d fallen in love with the picture of a badass woman riding a bike. Then after she talked to Melanie, they hit it off.

When Brian had first met Melanie, it was dislike at first sight. He was really protective of Lindsay, and as the time passed, Brian admitted only to himself that Melanie was too much like him. That was the main reason he didn’t like her, but she wasn’t even trying to be nice to him. Lindsay always tried to make peace, but barely managed.

When the girls had invited him over for dinner about a year ago, he had gone without knowing what they expected of him. They had cooked special dishes and baked delicious cookies. Then, they had offered him a cigar and old whiskey. His suspicions of the whole dinner had multiplied. Lindsay had been the one to finally broach the subject, saying how she and Melanie had been thinking of having a baby. Brian had mocked Melanie about finally growing a dick. Once Lindsay had broken the fight between them, she said she’d been thinking of Brian as the donor. That had been a great shock, and he’d laughed in their faces. His reaction had angered Melanie and made Lindsay cry. He’d left their house shortly after that, laughing some more.

Then he’d told Michael about it, while they were at their favorite dance club. Michael had said they’d make cute babies, but sobered up pretty quickly, finding flaws in the girls’ plan.

Lindsay had pestered him for a whole month until he finally caved. They had gotten tested and before he knew what was happening, he was in a clinic surrounded by magazines with naked women. He’d left the room saying they had to reschedule. The next time he’d gone to the clinic, he was accompanied by a random guy Brian had just met at the Baths. He’d lied to the nurses that he was his friend and he was there for moral support. The nurse had found it odd, but allowed the other man inside the sterile room with Brian.

After a mediocre blowjob, Brian shot his load in the cup.

Two weeks later, Lindsay had called him in the middle of the night. Brian had been in the middle of pounding a guy’s ass, but he’d picked his phone. He’d barely understood what she was saying through her tears, but got the gist of it. After they had hung up, he kept fucking his trick with gusto. The guy had asked if he’d received good news, and Brian had answered that he was going to be a father.

Theodore and Emmett were on a small sofa across from Craig, engaged in some game of cards.

Theodore had weaseled his way into his friendship with Michael, by tagging along when they went out with the girls. Theodore was Melanie’s best friend. He was a great guy, though he kept making mistakes and messing up his life.

Brian had always wondered how desperate one had to be to jerk off under the desk at work, but Theodore was part of that select group of people who celebrated when they finally got laid. For Brian, it was effortless. He only had to look at a guy, and they’d follow him.

When Brian had found out Theodore wanted to open his own porn site, he’d been disgusted. It had backfired at his friend in the most idiotic way. He had checked all his employees, making sure they were legal, except his personal assistant. Brian had helped Theodore out, and saved him before he got into serious trouble. Luckily for his friend, Theodore’s downfall happened when Brian was ready to open his own company. Since Ted was the best accountant Brian knew, he’d asked for his help, before offering him a job.

Brian had never seen this new side of their friendship coming, but he liked Ted more and more.

As for Emmett… Brian smiled at the memory of how they’d met. Brian and Michael had agreed to meet at the diner where Debbie worked. It had been after a long day at work for both of them and all they’d wanted was to catch up and have a bite, before heading to the club.

Debbie had been busy with a tall, skinny guy, completely ignoring them. She’d finally introduced them after Brian had called her rude. She’d explained that Emmett was new in town and that Godiva had brought him in there, instructing Debbie to take care of him.

After introducing themselves, it had only been a matter of minutes before Michael invited Emmett to live with him. They had shared the crappy apartment for five long years, until recently when Michael had moved out and into Ben’s apartment.

Lastly, Brian turned to look at Justin. He’d seen the boy once when he’d visited Craig in his office, but he was sure Justin wouldn’t remember that encounter. He’d been upset about something and had been too busy yelling at his dad to notice Brian entering the room, then he’d stormed out without looking around. Craig had joked about teenagers, and then they’d talked business.

But today, Brian had discovered what an interesting person Justin was. It was glaringly clear he was withdrawn and kept a dark secret, which surprised Brian. Jennifer seemed like a smart woman. He couldn’t believe she didn’t know about her son.

Brian was startled to notice Justin glancing at him from his spot. Justin's eyes widened and he quickly looked away. Brian smirked, rotating in the futon to better face Justin.

Next time Justin peeked, his cheeks were pink. His deep blue eyes studied Brian, then he returned to his notepad. He kept stealing looks, until the curiosity got the best of Brian, who stood up and walked to stand behind Justin.

He was surprised to see Justin drawing him. It was a damn good drawing, too.

Justin hadn’t heard him move, and when he turned for another peek, he gasped, pressing the notepad to his chest, his wide eyes staring at Brian.
“Can I see?” Brian extended a hand.

Justin blushed furiously, shaking his head.

“Please,” Brian added.

“It’s not finished,” Justin whispered.

“Want me to resume my position?”

Justin simply stared at him, not quite sure if Brian was teasing or being serious. Then he nodded.

Brian sat back down on the futon, trying to find his previous position. He lifted a brow at Justin.

Justin seemed to get over his initial embarrassment, because he abandoned his notepad and walked over to Brian, instructing him what was the correct position. He even dared to touch his hand and move it to the back rest. Then he went back to his spot and resumed drawing Brian, this time looking at him intently.

oOo

That night, Justin tossed and turned for hours until sleep claimed him.

He dreamed of hazel eyes and molted lava voice whispering naughty things to him. It shouldn’t have been a surprise to wake up with a boner.

As he leisurely stroked his dick, he heard the water running in the bathroom. The image of the foggy figure he’d seen the previous evening through the shower glass popped in his mind, and Justin tugged at his dick faster. He came all over his stomach right before his mother knocked on his door, telling him breakfast was being served.

“I’ll be there!” Justin called out.

He wiped his chest with his pajamas top, then knocked on the bathroom door.

“Come in,” Brian answered.

Justin peeked inside after opening the door a little. Brian was once again in black boxer briefs, brushing his teeth.

“Sorry,” Justin mumbled, stepping inside and standing awkwardly near the door. He doubted he could take his dick out and piss without getting hard.

Brian only had to stand there, and Justin would pop an inappropriate boner.

“You can piss. I won’t bite,” Brian joked, spitting in the sink, then cleansing his mouth.

“Uh, I’ll wait.”

Brian patted his face with a towel, turning to Justin. “You never showed me the drawing.”

“Maybe later,” Justin replied shyly. He wasn’t used to people being interested in his art.

His mom encouraged him to attend the Art Class in the after-school program, but his dad still hoped he’d forget about the hobby to draw. Justin had run out of ways to explain he wasn’t going to follow in his father’s career and become a businessman. Justin's dream was to become an artist and have his paintings displayed at the most prestigious galleries in town, maybe even the country.

Brian allowed him some much-needed privacy.

Justin took a shower, brushed his teeth, and spent ten minutes straight getting his hair under control. He was the last to arrive in the kitchen. All the spots at the table were taken.

At the island bar, there was an empty stool next to Emmett. He hopped on it, smiling in thanks at Emmett, who pushed a cup of tea his way.
“Sleep well?” Emmett asked.

“Not really. It’s so quiet here,” Justin lied.

“I know. Besides, I’m sharing a room with the broken tractor.” He pointed the end of his fork to Ted.

“I’m so glad I have my own room. It would have been horrible to share with my sister,” Justin whispered.

Emmett rubbed his back, before turning to continue his conversation with Ted.

Justin busied himself with his tea and buttering a slice of toast. While drinking from his cup, his eyes wandered to his father who was watching Michael and Ben with pure disgust on his face. He wasn’t even trying to conceal it.

Justin caught his mom’s eye, and jerked his head in his dad’s direction. She elbowed Craig, whispering into his ear. He scoffed, pushing his chair away from the table.

“If you’ll excuse me,” he said, before leaving the kitchen.

No one seemed the wiser, except for Brian. He got up as well, walked to Jennifer, touched her shoulder and whispered something to her, before following Craig.

Justin could only guess what would happen if Brian confronted Craig about his homophobia. It was a high probability for Craig to put an end to their holiday, and as much as Justin had been against this trip in the beginning, he was liking it more and more. It wasn’t only that he liked Brian, but he liked Brian's friends, too. They were like him, and despite the fact that he barely admitted to himself that he was gay, he saw himself being friends with these people.

After breakfast, Justin accepted Emmett’s invitation to explore the surroundings. They bundled up, and after Justin promised his mother that he’d be careful, they were off.

“Got any plans for college?” Emmett asked as they trudged through the snowed grounds.

“I plan on getting into PIFA.”

“Really? Ben is a professor there.

“Yeah? What does he teach?” Justin couldn’t believe his luck. If he could befriend Michael's boyfriend, he might actually stand a chance to get into PIFA. As a professor there, Ben most likely knew what the expectations were.

“Gay Studies.”

“For real?”

“Yeah, no joke. I had no idea such a subject existed until I met him.” Emmett laughed, kicking at the snow on their path. “But if you’re curious what he teaches, you’ll have to ask him.”

“I might, if I get the courage. He’s kinda intimidating,” Justin admitted.

“I saw you talking to Brian. He’s the intimidating one.”

“I think Brian is really nice.” Justin shrugged.

Emmett quirked a brow.

“What?” Justin asked, self-defensively. He could feel his cheeks reddening, and it wasn’t because of the cold weather.

Emmett snorted, shaking his head. “Tread carefully with Brian. Besides, he’s way above your league, and never mind that you’re a minor.”

“For another three days!” Justin showed him three fingers to make a point.

“Oooh! We’re planning you a party! It’s going to be fabulous.” Emmett clapped his gloved hands.

Justin stopped and squatted to the ground to grab some snow. “I don’t know about that. Dad’s already not happy with the company. A party would be the last thing—”

Emmett waved him off. “Shush you! I plan parties for a living. Besides, what kind of parent wouldn’t be happy to celebrate his son’s birthday?”

“Just keep it… straight,” Justin whispered, feeling his face burning in embarrassment. He was ready to stick his head in the snow to hide.

Emmett cocked his head to the side. “I thought…”

“He doesn’t know. Actually, I never told anyone,” Justin admitted. “I’m not even sure myself.”

“Oh, poor dear!” Emmett hugged him tightly, catching him by surprise. “You’ll figure it out. Just don’t do the figuring out with Brian.”

“Sure,” Justin mumbled. He wasn’t sure why Emmett advised him against pursuing his liking for Brian.

“So, anything in particular you want for your birthday?”

They continued their stroll, heading back to the cottage.

“I don’t know…”

“Oh, come on! You’re turning eighteen!”

“Nothing…”

“You’re holding back!” Emmett pushed Justin playfully.

Sadly, Justin was already navigating a large mountain of snow, so he lost his balance when Emmett shoved him. During his fall, he kicked his legs, managing to take Emmett with him.

They started laughing, rolling around in the snow.

“What in God’s name are you doing, Justin?” His dad shouted from several feet away.

Justin rolled onto his stomach to see his dad and Brian coming from the other side of the cottage. Brian offered Justin a hand to help him up, then did the same for Emmett.

“We fell,” Justin mumbled.

His dad glared at Emmett, shot Brian a pointed look, then stormed back the way he’d come.

Justin slumped his shoulders, looking down. “Forget the party. I bet he’s going to tell Mom to pack.”

Brian dusted some snow off Justin's hat. “I was trying to explain that despite the fact that my friends are gay, that doesn’t mean you’d be influenced. I guess we came across you and Honeycutt rolling around in snow at the wrong time.”

“Wait, he doesn’t actually have a problem with your friends? Does he even know about you?”

“I just told him that who I fuck is none of his business. He took it like a trooper.” Brian stuffed his hands in his coat. “Craig’s worried you’re going to be influenced and prove your mother’s theory about you being gay.”

“Mom thinks I’m gay?” Justin shouted, beyond shocked. He had never discussed anything about his desires with her.

“Honey, you don’t have a straight bone in your body,” Emmett joked.

“Come on.” Brian wrapped an arm around Justin's shoulders. “I’m going to have another talk with your dad. It would be sad to see you go. I’ve known his dislike for gay people since the day we met, but he’s a great guy.”

“He is.” Justin nodded.
.
.
.
As it turned out, by lunchtime, the situation was under control.

Justin was curled up on the futon, drawing, when his mother joined him. She squeezed herself on the edge of the futon, brushing a hand through Justin's hair.

“What are you doing here?” She asked softly.

“Drawing,” he answered flatly. He hated being interrupted while he creative juices were flowing.

“I’m going to steal only a few minutes of your time, honey. I know you want peace when you draw.”

Justin sighed heavily, closing his sketchbook. He met his mother’s worried eyes, and took a moment to wonder what this could be about.

“Your dad’s friend convinced him to stay. He was set to leave after being around…”

“What? Did he reach his limit of being surrounded by queers?” Justin sneered. “He should get off his high horse and understand that he can’t control everything around him! Especially how others live their life.”

“I understand why this upsets you so much,” she said gently, touching his shoulder. “When you’re ready, I’m here to talk with you.”

Justin froze. He couldn’t move a single muscle in his body. He definitely didn’t expect his mother to reach out a helping hand and guide him out of the closet.

“It’s okay. You don’t have to say anything right now.” She leaned closer and kissed his temple. “I won’t tell your father. That’s something you should do on your own terms.”

“How?” Justin blurted out when his mom got up, ready to leave him. “I mean, how did you know,” he clarified.

“It’s obvious, honey.” She smiled, before heading out of the sitting room.

Justin opened his sketchbook, but his desire to draw was long gone. His mind spun. He couldn’t believe his mother knew.

“Hey, kid!” Michael called from the doorway.

Justin looked his way, frowning. It was their first interaction, and he still hadn’t spent enough time around him to decide whether he liked him or not.

“I’m not a kid,” Justin replied automatically. He absolutely hated being called a kid.

Michael ignored his comment. “You’re summoned to the basement.”

“Right. Like I’d follow you down there.” Justin pretended to draw, hoping Michael would leave.

“I promise no one is going to molest you or anything.”

Justin snorted. Of course, poor guy thought Justin was a big homophobe like his father, when he was simply a big homo. “Or worse… kill me,” Justin muttered, not sure if he was joking.

“I told them I’m not the best choice to grab you.”

“What’s in the basement?” Justin decided to humor Michael.

“We’re sorting the Christmas decorations. Emmett thought it would be a good idea to have them sorted out, so we can start decorating tomorrow.”

Justin placed his sketchbook on the futon, along with his pencil, then joined Michael in the doorway. “Sorry I was skeptical…”

Michael waved him off, leading the way to the basement. Justin hovered at the top of the stairs for a second, then he heard laughter from below and decided that it was safe.

The scene that greeted him was made out of his nightmares. There was glitter and garlands and tubes of confetti, and in the middle of it was Molly. Next to his sister, was Emmett, probably as excited as her about the glittery decorations.

“I see you already have help,” he said hurriedly.

“Oh no, mister! One Grinch is enough! We don’t need two,” Emmett sad cheerfully.

Justin shot Ted a look. The guy was working on untangling a bunch of lights. Then he looked at Ben, who was opening box after box of ornaments.
“He’s talking about Brian,” Michael explained.

“I feel trapped. I never signed up for this shit.”

Emmett threw a plastic globe at Justin, narrowly missing his head. “Young ears!”

Justin rolled his eyes, while Molly giggled. “I’ve heard worse from him.”

“And you always run off to Mom and Dad to get me in trouble.”

“You’re not supposed to say bad words,” she argued.

“I’m old enough to express my rage any way I want. And I’m old enough to opt out of this madness.” Justin was about to head upstairs when Brian descended.

Brian applauded. “Nice speech, Picasso!”

Justin frowned for a moment, then he noticed his sketchbook in Brian's hand. “That’s private!”

“I didn’t look. You should say thank you for rescuing you. Remember what you promised me this morning?” Brian lifted a brow.

Justin grinned, turning to the others. “Real busy, guys. So sorry for abandoning you!”

He practically sprinted up the stairs. Brian followed him, chuckling.

“Don’t corrupt the poor kid!” Emmett's voice floated from below, before Brian could close the basement door.

It wouldn’t have been a problem if Justin's dad didn’t happen to be right there.

“Dad,” Justin squeaked, taking a step back and bumping into Brian.

His dad stared at them for a long moment, then started laughing. He clapped Brian on the shoulder and continued to the kitchen.

“What the…”

Brian caught Justin's wrist, pulling him to the sitting room. They sat on the loveseat, since it was large enough to hold both of them.

They spent hours looking over Justin's drawings. Brian was impressed by the technique and accuracy of the portraits. Justin was bursting with pride on the inside, but on the outside, he could feel his face burning in embarrassment.

After the first few pages, Justin started explaining in detail the pictures he’d drawn. He hadn’t had so much fun since he’d gotten drunk with his friend over the summer.

There was a soft knock on the doorframe. They looked up to find Lindsay there, smiling at them.
“What are you two doing?”

“You wouldn’t believe how talented Justin is!” Brian exclaimed. “Come.” He pulled the futon close to the loveseat. “Lindsay is an artist too. She used to teach art at the elementary school.”

“Really?” Justin asked, interested.

Lindsay nodded. “Can I?” She gestured at the sketchbook in Justin's lap.

He offered it to her, suddenly confident of his drawings after Brian's praise.

She flipped through the pages, eyeing them interestedly. “These are really good! Have you thought of having them displayed?”

“It’s my dream to have a show.”

She glanced at Brian. “Maybe we can turn his dream into a reality. I’m still friends with Mr. Bloom, though he’d never accept an unknown artist.”

“Maybe Emmett can talk to Tanis. I’d rather pull my nails out than go to GLC.”

“That’s an idea!” Lindsay cheered. “The GLC part,” she added, laughing, when Justin gasped.

“GLC? What’s that?” Justin asked, confused.

“The Gay and Lesbian Center,” she explained.

“Safe haven for fags who can't get laid,” Brian joked.

Lindsay shot him a reproachful look. “They’re always looking for fresh, new artists. You’ll have your own show. You can choose what to have displayed and where to display it.”

“Sounds cool!”

“We’ll do this as soon as we return to Pittsburgh.” Lindsay leaned back on the futon, cringing. She massaged the side of her massive stomach.

“Everything okay?” Brian shot her a worried look.

“He’s so agitated. Mel sent me upstairs to rest while they finish dinner.”

“And you ended up in here.”

“I heard you talking about paintings,” she said as an excuse. “Shit.” She sucked in a deep breath.

“Lindsay, you better tell us on time if the baby is coming! The last thing we want, is to deliver him in the middle of the mountains!” Brian snapped, clearly agitated.

She cringed. “I’m not sure what to tell you, but the pain comes in waves.”

“If you're having contractions, you should head to the hospital,” Justin said quietly.

“It’s Braxton Hicks.”

“I sure hope so,” Brian grumbled. “Let me help you upstairs.”

Justin held his sketchbook to his chest, staring into the fireplace. He was thinking far ahead to his own show in an unknown place, and it was the best mental picture he ever had. If they could help him achieve this dream, he would be on the right path about becoming a well-known artist.

When his eyes started burning from staring for too long into the fire in the dark room, he blinked several times. Brian hadn’t returned, which either meant Lindsay wasn’t well, or he’d had his fill of being around a teenager.

Justin made his way to the kitchen.

He was surprised to find his father flipping steaks on a small grill, while his mom and Melanie worked on side dishes. The kitchen must have been well-stocked to have enough food to last them two weeks. Or maybe, there was someone who brought food every day. Justin had no idea.

“Did you get bored downstairs?” His mom asked, laughing.

“Brian rescued me from there. I showed him my drawings.”

His mom gasped, turning to stare at her son. It was unlike him to discuss his drawings.

“He and Lindsay said they’d help me have them displayed at the GLC when we return.”

“I bet that’s the last thing on their mind with the baby coming,” his mom chided him.

“GLC?” His dad flipped a steak, frowning at him.

“It’s a great spot for new artists to have their art displayed,” Melanie explained.

Justin was grateful she didn’t explain what GLC stood for, or his father would have flipped his shit.

“As long as it doesn’t interfere with your school…” His dad shrugged.

“Can you let the others know dinner will be ready in half an hour?” His mom suggested.

“Sure.” Justin dreaded going back down to the basement.

He descended carefully. Molly had glittery snowflakes in her hair, Emmett had a red garland around his neck, and Michael was the only one doing the sorting. Ben had joined Ted in untangling the lights.

“I see Grinch has released our elf,” Emmett joked.

“I don’t know about Brian, but I’m not Grinch. I just don’t like doing this. I’m going to help tomorrow, I promise.”

“You can give us a hand here,” Ted said, desperately. “I’m ready to grab a pair of scissors.”

“Now, now, Teddy. It’s not too late to book you some Anger Management classes as a Christmas present,” Emmett said, amused.

“Why don’t you do this, instead of playing with the glitter and garlands!”

Justin sat in front of Ted, pulling gently at an end of the light string. “I was sent to let you know dinner would be ready soon.”

“Great news! These lights ate all my energy and left me starving,” Ted grumbled.

With Justin and Ben’s patience, the lights were untangled safely and left on the floor for the following day.

When the group moved to the kitchen, the table and the island were set with plates and utensils. Justin spotted the empty chair next to Brian, but before he could get there, Michael brushed past him, occupying his desired chair.

Justin stood aside for a moment. He had two options: next to his dad which was right across from Brian, or at the island again. He chose the first option.

“Is Lindsay all right?” Jennifer asked, as she handed over the fried vegetables plate.

“I’m ready to take her to the nearest hospital,” Brian answered. “But she wants to give birth with her doctor if the time comes.”

“And you can bring the doctor here?” Michael asked, skeptically.

“I told Melanie to convince Lindsay to go back to Pittsburgh. I can arrange them transportation. Actually, Ted?” Brian turned to look over his shoulder at his accountant and friend. “Can you get a hold of Mark?”

“Now?”

“No, next week.”

Justin was the only one to snort in laughter. He got reproachful looks from his parents and Michael, but Brian smirked at him.

After a phone call to Brian's travel agent, the girls were set to leave the next morning. Brian was ready to face an angry Lindsay, but it was better if she was home when she gave birth.

During the meal, Justin wasn’t sure who bumped into who first, but by dessert time, he was engaged into a footsie war with Brian. He was sure no one could see them, but when he looked in Emmett's direction, he got a shake of head.

Justin remembered Emmett's words from that morning. He was too afraid to think further than just a playful game with Brian. Even though he liked the man a lot, he was scared of confronting his desire.

oOo

The following morning, Justin woke up to the sound of shouting. It came from Brian's room.

He focused on what was being said.

“I cannot believe you!”

“I don’t understand why you’re so upset,” Brian retorted. “This is who I am. I’m not going to change, Mikey!”

“But here! In the bathroom you share with that kid? What if he woke up?”

“He’d have seen some free porn.”

“What if he is a big homophobe like his dad?”

“What if you shut the fuck up already? I’m sick of this argument.”

“You promised to keep it in your pants during our time here,” Michael insisted.

“I made no such promise. I thought I might have to go on a dry spell, considering there was no one to fuck here. But it looked like the guy Mark sent to escort the girls was willing.”

Justin was wide awake by now. He could feel his eyes widening with each word out of Michael and Brian’s mouths. Brian had fucked someone in the bathroom.

Why didn’t he hear it? What if he’d woken up during their fucking?

Justin would have enjoyed the free show, for sure.

“Whatever. For the record, if I hear Craig saying something about us, or commenting behind our backs, I’m going to make a scene.”

“He won’t. I talked to him yesterday. He hasn’t bothered you since breakfast yesterday, has he?” Brian checked.

“Not that I remember.”

“Good. Anyway, we’ll all be busy with decorating. Which reminds me, I have to make a phone call about the goddamn tree.”

“They haven’t told you anything yet?”

“No, and I have a bad feeling that I have to go shopping for the thing.”

Justin could imagine Brian shuddering at the thought of Christmas tree shopping. He jumped out of the bed and sprinted through his door into the bathroom. He came to a halt, not expecting to find Brian and Michael in the middle of the bathroom. He’d thought they were in Brian's room.

“Sorry. I just woke up and heard you talking about shopping for the Christmas tree,” Justin said, excited.

Michael laughed loudly. “Looks like you have company for your trip into town.” With that, he left them alone.

“You better get dressed and eat fast. I’m leaving in thirty.”

Justin bit his tongue to keep from commenting about Brian's escapade from earlier, but he had no idea what to say.

He was giddy and wary at the same time about his trip with Brian.

In the kitchen, he found his father on the laptop at the table. “I thought you weren’t going to work.”

“There’s an emergency and no one to handle it.”

“And if I, hypothetically, tell Brian to cut off the internet access?” Justin teased. He piled a few pancakes on his plate and pulled the maple syrup closer to his plate.

“It will be your loss, too,” his dad answered seriously.

“Funny enough, I haven’t been on my phone since we arrived. It might affect Molly’s stupid games, but she can play them without any internet connection.”

“Mind your own business.” His dad focused on his laptop.

Justin hummed to himself while eating.

“What's got you so happy, anyway? Plotting how to cut the internet?” His dad added after a while.

“Nah. My day looks like it’s going to be filled with fun.”

“Oh, the decorating for Christmas?”

“Better. I’m shopping with Grinch for the tree.”

“Watch out, or you’re staying back,” Brian grumbled, entering the kitchen. “Morning, Craig. Is there any coffee left?”

Justin pushed his cup to Brian. “I just poured the last of it.”

“Why are you allowed coffee?” Brian drank it all with two long gulps. “Are you about ready?”

“I thought you had the tree shipped,” Craig commented.

“I just got off the phone with the deliver company. They said it was a mix-up and my email ended up in their junk inbox. They promised me discounts.”

“Oh, and you’re headed over there to grab a discounted tree?”

“The discounts are for next year. This year, all the trees are sold out.” Brian stole a bite of pancake from Justin's plate. “Come on. Don’t wait for us, because I have no idea where we’re going. I’ll give you a call later, to assure you I haven’t kidnapped your son.”

Justin choked on his pancake, then a silly idea came to him. “There goes our plan to elope to Vegas!”

It was so worth it to see his father choking on spit and staring at him as if he’d grown another head.

Brian cuffed him behind the head, before pulling him up and shoving him in the general direction of the hallway.

On their way to the gondola station, Brian scolded Justin for jerking his father around. If he ever planned on coming out to Craig, Justin had to tread carefully and ease his dad into accepting gay people.

During the ride, they didn’t talk much. Justin finally admitted that he wanted to paint that landscape. He took several photos to have when he returned home, where he had his brushes and acrylic colors.

When they reached the town, Brian went to the information center, asking for a place where he could buy a tree. He got three possible places; one of them being two towns away. They both hoped it wouldn’t come to that.

Brian led Justin to a black Jeep Wrangler.

“Nice ride!”

“Thanks.”

“So, your friends went back home?” Justin decided to make small talk.

“Yeah, better to be near a hospital if it happens.”

“Smart choice.” Justin nodded.

The first place on their list was closed, with a big sign on the gates saying they were sold out. The second place was on the outskirts of Aspen.

They parked and walked into the tree lot. All the trees looked like they’d suffered from fights with a bear and they were extra expensive.

Justin stared at Brian when they left the lot, knowing Brian was upset with the situation.

“There are a lot of trees around the cabana…”

“I’ll pretend I didn’t hear you.” Brian fished out a packet of cigarettes. He lit one up, inhaling greedily. “Fuck it. We’re going to grab something to eat, then we’re headed east.”

While they ate at some fancy restaurant, Brian was busy looking at a map. Glenwood Springs was about an hour away by car, but with the icy roads, it would take longer.

It was close to three in the afternoon when they left Aspen. Justin called his mom, letting her know they were headed out of town to find a tree. She panicked, but Justin placated her, saying Brian was an excellent driver and they’d be safe.

Their luck of a clear road ran out halfway to their destination. There was an accident which blocked both lanes. A long truck was perpendicular on the road.

Brian kept tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. Justin kept himself busy with a lame game on his phone. He knew that Brian would snap if he said the wrong thing, so he kept his mouth shut.

“So, is there anyone in your school you’re interested in?” Brian asked out of blue.

“Not really.”

“That’s not a no.” Brian chuckled.

“One of the football players is kinda hot, but he’s not interested.”

“How do you know that?”

“I just know. He makes fun of another kid who’s obviously gay,” Justin told him.

“What do you mean obviously gay?”

“Like Emmett. He stands out.”

Brian nodded. “Must be tough.”

“To be obviously gay?” Justin asked, confused. He pulled his feet up, hugging them to his chest. He’d taken his boots off; aware Brian would go ballistic if he put snow on his seats.

“To be your age, figuring out who you are, and not having anyone to be there for you.”

“Isn’t that common? Were your parents supportive?”

Brian winced as if he’d been slapped. He averted his eyes, staring at the tow trucks arriving to take the truck off the road.

“No,” he said after a long time. “My parents didn’t even know I’m gay for the longest time. Michael's mother was there for both of us. We met in high school and have been friends ever since.”

“That’s really nice! I wish to always be friends with Daphne! She’s my best friend in the whole world.”

“Does she know?”

“I think so. I never told anyone,” Justin mumbled.

“If you admit to yourself and become comfortable with the idea and you feel good in your own skin, you’ll see that it won’t matter what others think.”

“Thanks for the advice.”

Brian smiled at him, reaching out to touch his hand. “I’m here if you want to talk about anything.”

Justin just nodded, turning his eyes to the dark clouds. It looked like a snow storm was approaching.

“Do you suppose we’ll find the tree lot open?” Justin voiced his main concern when they started moving again.

“I sure as hell hope so.”

“If it’s closed… do we find a hotel or something? There’s always tomorrow.”

“Don’t jinx our bad luck.”

It turned out that Justin's fear was their reality. The tree lot had closed ten minutes prior their arrival. Of what they could see, there were some amazing trees inside, so they decided to find a hotel nearby.

An hour later, and ten rounds of the town, they found a crappy motel, but it was better than sleeping in the car.

cont'd