The Ends Justify the Means - Chapter 17
Dec. 28th, 2007 06:12 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
shadownycTHE ENDS JUSTIFY THE MEANS
Title: Chapter 17 – Ends Justify Means 2
Written By:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
shadownyc
Timeline: Post-513
Rating: PG-13 to R for language and sexual references
Warnings: Some angst
Summary: The lives of the QaF Family move forward. This fic was written for the NaNoWriMo 2007 challenge
Disclaimer: Don’t own the characters, Cowlip does…but wish I owned some of them
Links to Previous Chapters:
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/195106.html (Chapter 1)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/195639.html (Chapter 2)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/197064.html (Chapter 3)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/197969.html (Chapter 4)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/198840.html (Chapter 5)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/199551.html (Chapter 6)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/200327.html (Chapter 7)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/201848.html (Chapter 8)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/203308.html (Chapter 9)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/203740.html (Chapter 10)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/204011.html (Chapter 11)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/204272.html (Chapter 12)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/205872.html (Chapter 13)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/207096.html (Chapter 14)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/208255.html (Chapter 15)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/208477.html (Chapter 16)
Chapter 17 – Ends Justify Means 2
Ben was recovering so well that Michael felt comfortable enough to spend more and more time setting up All The Rage in just the way he wanted. While Michael was grateful for all the support of his friends, the store was his and he wanted to set his own mark on it. He was the expert and knew exactly where he should place everything for the best selling and presentation.
When he wasn’t organizing the store he spent the rest of his work day with Emmett. While Emmett was a master at organizing the perfect parties, he knew very little about comic book heroes and appropriate themes. Tights weren’t everything. Since Emmett, like the rest of Michael’s friends, had read every issue of Rage, and the store was named after his creation, the theme was evident. He enjoyed talking with Em about all the different decorations that would be suspended from the ceiling representing all of the villains Rage had come across.
Justin was able to recreate boards that illustrated Rage’s lair and other scenes of Gayopolis that would be recognizable to their readership. Michael had the most fun recreating the free standing full-size cut-outs of his three main characters. There was one with Rage, Zephyr and JT another with Rage and JT in a lip-lock and a third with Rage and Zephyr battling Ice Tina and her cronies.
Everything was set to go. Brian had assumed the responsibility for publicizing the opening, or rather he’d given that responsibility to Cynthia. This wouldn’t be a hard sell as the local news always loved good human interest stories about one of their own. It didn’t hurt that Cynthia made sure the media was aware that Michael faced both business and personal tragedies simultaneously and rose to defeat both—kind of like his superheroes. That was the angle Cynthia used and the media ate it up.
Ben and Hunter were getting to spend a lot of quality time together while Michael was readying the store for business. There was no resentment in his absence as the two loved seeing Michael this enthusiastic about anything. Neither of them had been around just prior to Red Cape’s opening so they had never seen that glimmer in Michael’s eye when he was amongst a whole set of new comic books for the first time. This was something that Debbie, Brian and Justin had all seen, but only Justin truly understood. The artistic eye seeing its inspiration was universal to all artists.
Ben knew that this was Michael’s passion, as his was writing novels, and reveled in Michael’s happiness. If anything it made him feel healthier that much quicker. Ben also knew that besides homework he had to approach Hunter about his recent illness and confess to all the mistakes he made in the hopes that Hunter would learn not to take risks with his own health.
“Hunter, you’re really doing great. Graduation is a sure thing now, isn’t it?”
“You bet. On January 15th, I’ll have earned my High School Diploma. I can’t believe it.”
“Have you thought anymore about going to college?”
“I’m still not sure what I want to do after I graduate. Hell, I never thought I would graduate.
“I kind of admire that guy Blake that Ted is hooking up with. Do you know he was a total crystal queen and is now a drug rehab counselor?”
“So I heard. He’s really come a long way.”
“I kind of like the idea of counseling, but I just want to take my time thinking about where to start. I think I’d like to work with Michael at the new store for a while and maybe take a couple of psychology classes at Allegheny Community College. Are you disappointed?”
“No, no! That sounds like a great plan and I’m really proud of you for thinking things through the way you have.”
“Good, cause that’s what I want to do next.”
“You know, partner, we haven’t really talked about what happened to me.”
“Sure we did -- in the hospital. I know exactly what happened to you and all the drugs they used to help you recover.”
“But I mean how I ended up so sick.”
“Oh that.”
“Yes, that. I made some stupid mistakes and took some ridiculous risks with my own health, thinking that somehow I was going to keep it a secret and not burden you and Michael.”
“Well, that’s fucked up.”
“Yeah, it is. I was fucked up and I wasn’t thinking clearly. I just want you to know that if you ever, ever feel like something isn’t balanced in your body, or you start to feel sick, even if it just seems to be a cold, that you’ll tell us. Don’t be an asshole…like I was. Let the people who love you know so we can get you the proper care right away.”
“I will. You know when Vic died I kind of freaked out a bit, but seeing you sick really scared me to death, so to speak.” Hunter smirked at the irony of the phrase. “I will definitely let you and Michael know if something doesn’t feel right, even though we both know he’ll queen out immediately.”
“You know what…it’s kind of nice to know that we have someone, in fact several someones, who care enough to queen out if we’re sick. Not everyone is that lucky.”
“I know.” Hunter gave Ben a hug and then turned on the TV.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Justin and Brian had just enjoyed a very invigorating shower. It’s incredible how good a person can feel after a nice HOT shower, even when the water grows cold at the end.
They then began to dress for the Grand Opening.
“You know, I can’t believe no one has really paid attention to our rings. This family, that you dragged me into, is usually alert to every detail of everyone’s life.”
“First of all Sunshine, let’s not rewrite history.”
“Hunh?”
“So eloquent. I did not drag you into this family, you bulldozed your way in, with Michael, and sometimes me, kicking and screaming all the way.” Justin at least had the decency to blush when he was called on his revision of the past.
“Second, when this family is involved in a project they get so engrossed that they wouldn’t know if the world stopped around them, let alone that you and I are wearing rings. The only one who’s that observant is Ted, which is another reason, beside the obvious, to have him in on it from the start.”
“He really can keep a secret. I’m shocked.”
“He probably told the counselor at home, but Blake’s profession is keeping secrets about all his clients and Ted wants to keep his very lucrative position at Kinnetik.”
“You know that it’s more than that.”
“Maybe,” was all Brian would confess to, and then he winked. “It won’t matter soon.”
“Thank goodness. I’ve been putting off seeing Daphne and she’s beginning to get irritated with me.”
“Mustn’t irritate your hag.”
The two finished getting dressed and set off for the Grand Opening.
When they arrived there was a small red carpet leading to the edge of the sidewalk and camera crews from two of the local Pittsburgh network affiliates. Mayor Deekins turned up to get a little free publicity and to surreptitiously payback one of those in the community that had secured his position in office. A few other local dignitaries showed up as well, including the Chairman of the Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce.
Cynthia had certainly done her homework and made sure that anyone who wanted Kinnetik to remain based in Pittsburgh would show up to support the best friend of Kinnetik’s CEO.
Brian and Justin took their place on the sidewalk and waited to enter through a door that was decorated similarly to the one that had ushered in the first Rage party at Babylon.
“Are you sure you’re okay with this Brian? It really does bring back some awful memories, along with the good ones.”
“Remember Justin, Rage lived on and JT returned to his rightful place at his side. This just completes that story.”
Justin leaned in close to Brian and kissed his cheek, “I love you.”
“I know.” Brian smiled realizing that he really did know and was secure for the first time in his entire life. It was a strange feeling but one he had no intention of ever releasing.
The party was a smash and everyone was having a great time. After an hour filled with toasts and, thankfully, brief but meaningful speeches by Michael, the Mayor and the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, the media and local officials left along with several other invited guests. Soon it was just the family and a few additional close friends.
Emmett was about to turn on some upbeat dance music, now that there was space for the little group to let loose, but Brian stopped him.
Brian and Emmett got everyone’s attention and then Brian took the floor. “Earlier tonight I toasted Michael and his new store, along with Ben and Hunter and Debbie, but I now have an additional toast that was not for the media to see.”
“Uh oh, this doesn’t sound good,” Debbie yelled.
“Patience, and all will be revealed.” Brian continued as the small group looked back and forth with apprehension. Jennifer, Ted, Cynthia, and Blake were the only ones who understood the significance of this moment and none of them were about to ruin it for Brian and Justin.
“First, Justin and I would like to present Michael with two special gifts. The first was just about the only thing that was salvageable from Red Cape Comics. Justin took it and we brought it to a restorer and here is the free standing cut-out from the wedding issue of Rage.”
Everyone gasped and then spontaneously applauded. Michael literally walked up to the cut-out and ran his fingers up and down the edge. “Thank you, this is incredible.”
“Wait, Mikey, there’s more. Justin, our little genius, always thinks ahead. When you released the first issue of Rage he wanted to make sure that he always could treasure that little piece of history. So the young lad took five copies from the first box you ever opened, kept them in their special plastic shrink-wrap and purchased a safe deposit box at his bank.”
Michael’s eyes began to widen as Brian spoke but he said nothing as a tear of recognition slid down his cheek. “So Justin has decided that four will be enough for him and…” Justin brought one of the original first editions of Rage to Michael and gave it to him.
Michael gave Justin a bear hug, worthy of Debbie, and whispered, “You just brought Zephyr back to life. Thank you.” Justin stepped back as Michael held up the comic and everyone cheered and applauded louder than before.
Emmett chimed in, “Now can we dance?”
“If you’ll indulge me for one more minute.” Brian waved his right hand and Ted brought in a small white cake. “Justin and I decided that sometimes when the time for something is right you just do it. Two weeks ago we finally had the commitment ceremony, albeit just us and two witnesses, that was right for us.” Deb was about to yell at them both, but Brian raised his hand to stop her and Carl touched her arm to ground her.
“We did this our way, but we wanted to celebrate with our family when the time was right and tonight we celebrate. Justin come here. In honor of our wedded bliss,” Brian continued tongue in cheek, “I have appropriated two tickets for a honeymoon that I hope you approve of.” He gave the tickets to Justin who read the note from Brian’s travel agent.
“Here are your tickets to see The Masters. Enjoy your holiday in Italy and France.” Justin vaulted himself into Brian’s arms and thanked him. “And I’m sure I’ll be able to squeeze in some shopping between museum visits.”
Then Michael smiled and nodded at Justin as he brought out what he had thought was a mere present, and now realized was a wedding gift. He handed the painting to Justin and smiled, “Here you go, keep him happy and loved. No one else can.” Justin nodded, smiled and accepted the painting.
“Brian, you’re not the only one who can arrange a surprise. It may not be a trip halfway around the world, but someday it might be a masterpiece.”
Brian lifted the cloth off the painting and his breath caught in his throat. “Oh Sunshine, this is a masterpiece already.” To the untrained eye the painting was a cyclone of colors, brighter and bolder as they rose. Within the cyclone were splashes of pinks and beiges with olive tones and flecks of baby-blue and greenish-brown.
“Do you see what it is?”
“Yes, no explanation needed.”
“I knew you would, only you would.”
“Is this the project…”
“Yes.”
Brian handed the painting back to Michael who returned it to the easel in the storage room for safe keeping, and gave Justin a kiss to demonstrate all the love and passion he couldn’t say verbally. Message was received loud and clear.
“Anyone who wants to see my painting can view it, but no touching. It will hang over the mantel at Britin when we move in.”
Several of their friends asked about the loft. Justin responded, “The loft isn’t going anywhere. There are too many special memories. But at Britin we can have a life, and the space to enjoy it. And it will make my commute to a studio that much easier as one of the rooms will be converted into my studio.”
With relief and joy all around everyone grabbed a partner or just danced amongst the group as Emmett finally got to turn on the dance music.
Everyone came over to personally congratulate and reprimand Brian and Justin. When they both pointed out repeatedly that they had their wedding rings in plain sight the entire time there were laughs and, “Oh shit, no fucking way,” uttered over and over.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
By the time Justin and Brian got home from the Grand Opening/Wedding Reception they were tired and wired. After placing his painting in a safe place in the corner of the loft, Brian grabbed Justin and said, “It’s about time we had our first dance.”
“Oh really. I suppose you’ve selected some corny old song.” Justin smirked.
“Hardly.” Brian walked over to his home theater system and pushed the number 1. “You missed the re-opening of Babylon so I had to dance to this alone but somehow I always think of you and how you make me feel when I hear this.”
The first notes of Proud filtered through the speakers and Justin smiled. Brian was once again reminded as to why Debbie called him ‘Sunshine’.
“I really did learn to be the best homosexual I could possibly be. That’s because I learned from the best. I love you, Brian.”
Brian lifted Justin off the ground and spun him around. He lowered him slowly and whispered in his ear as they continued their dance, to a rhythm far slower than the beat of the music, “I love you, Justin, always have, always will – no regrets.”
[TBC with Epilogue]
Title: Chapter 17 – Ends Justify Means 2
Written By:
shadownycTimeline: Post-513
Rating: PG-13 to R for language and sexual references
Warnings: Some angst
Summary: The lives of the QaF Family move forward. This fic was written for the NaNoWriMo 2007 challenge
Disclaimer: Don’t own the characters, Cowlip does…but wish I owned some of them
Links to Previous Chapters:
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/195106.html (Chapter 1)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/195639.html (Chapter 2)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/197064.html (Chapter 3)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/197969.html (Chapter 4)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/198840.html (Chapter 5)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/199551.html (Chapter 6)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/200327.html (Chapter 7)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/201848.html (Chapter 8)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/203308.html (Chapter 9)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/203740.html (Chapter 10)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/204011.html (Chapter 11)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/204272.html (Chapter 12)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/205872.html (Chapter 13)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/207096.html (Chapter 14)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/208255.html (Chapter 15)
http://shadownyc.livejournal.com/208477.html (Chapter 16)
Chapter 17 – Ends Justify Means 2
Ben was recovering so well that Michael felt comfortable enough to spend more and more time setting up All The Rage in just the way he wanted. While Michael was grateful for all the support of his friends, the store was his and he wanted to set his own mark on it. He was the expert and knew exactly where he should place everything for the best selling and presentation.
When he wasn’t organizing the store he spent the rest of his work day with Emmett. While Emmett was a master at organizing the perfect parties, he knew very little about comic book heroes and appropriate themes. Tights weren’t everything. Since Emmett, like the rest of Michael’s friends, had read every issue of Rage, and the store was named after his creation, the theme was evident. He enjoyed talking with Em about all the different decorations that would be suspended from the ceiling representing all of the villains Rage had come across.
Justin was able to recreate boards that illustrated Rage’s lair and other scenes of Gayopolis that would be recognizable to their readership. Michael had the most fun recreating the free standing full-size cut-outs of his three main characters. There was one with Rage, Zephyr and JT another with Rage and JT in a lip-lock and a third with Rage and Zephyr battling Ice Tina and her cronies.
Everything was set to go. Brian had assumed the responsibility for publicizing the opening, or rather he’d given that responsibility to Cynthia. This wouldn’t be a hard sell as the local news always loved good human interest stories about one of their own. It didn’t hurt that Cynthia made sure the media was aware that Michael faced both business and personal tragedies simultaneously and rose to defeat both—kind of like his superheroes. That was the angle Cynthia used and the media ate it up.
Ben and Hunter were getting to spend a lot of quality time together while Michael was readying the store for business. There was no resentment in his absence as the two loved seeing Michael this enthusiastic about anything. Neither of them had been around just prior to Red Cape’s opening so they had never seen that glimmer in Michael’s eye when he was amongst a whole set of new comic books for the first time. This was something that Debbie, Brian and Justin had all seen, but only Justin truly understood. The artistic eye seeing its inspiration was universal to all artists.
Ben knew that this was Michael’s passion, as his was writing novels, and reveled in Michael’s happiness. If anything it made him feel healthier that much quicker. Ben also knew that besides homework he had to approach Hunter about his recent illness and confess to all the mistakes he made in the hopes that Hunter would learn not to take risks with his own health.
“Hunter, you’re really doing great. Graduation is a sure thing now, isn’t it?”
“You bet. On January 15th, I’ll have earned my High School Diploma. I can’t believe it.”
“Have you thought anymore about going to college?”
“I’m still not sure what I want to do after I graduate. Hell, I never thought I would graduate.
“I kind of admire that guy Blake that Ted is hooking up with. Do you know he was a total crystal queen and is now a drug rehab counselor?”
“So I heard. He’s really come a long way.”
“I kind of like the idea of counseling, but I just want to take my time thinking about where to start. I think I’d like to work with Michael at the new store for a while and maybe take a couple of psychology classes at Allegheny Community College. Are you disappointed?”
“No, no! That sounds like a great plan and I’m really proud of you for thinking things through the way you have.”
“Good, cause that’s what I want to do next.”
“You know, partner, we haven’t really talked about what happened to me.”
“Sure we did -- in the hospital. I know exactly what happened to you and all the drugs they used to help you recover.”
“But I mean how I ended up so sick.”
“Oh that.”
“Yes, that. I made some stupid mistakes and took some ridiculous risks with my own health, thinking that somehow I was going to keep it a secret and not burden you and Michael.”
“Well, that’s fucked up.”
“Yeah, it is. I was fucked up and I wasn’t thinking clearly. I just want you to know that if you ever, ever feel like something isn’t balanced in your body, or you start to feel sick, even if it just seems to be a cold, that you’ll tell us. Don’t be an asshole…like I was. Let the people who love you know so we can get you the proper care right away.”
“I will. You know when Vic died I kind of freaked out a bit, but seeing you sick really scared me to death, so to speak.” Hunter smirked at the irony of the phrase. “I will definitely let you and Michael know if something doesn’t feel right, even though we both know he’ll queen out immediately.”
“You know what…it’s kind of nice to know that we have someone, in fact several someones, who care enough to queen out if we’re sick. Not everyone is that lucky.”
“I know.” Hunter gave Ben a hug and then turned on the TV.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Justin and Brian had just enjoyed a very invigorating shower. It’s incredible how good a person can feel after a nice HOT shower, even when the water grows cold at the end.
They then began to dress for the Grand Opening.
“You know, I can’t believe no one has really paid attention to our rings. This family, that you dragged me into, is usually alert to every detail of everyone’s life.”
“First of all Sunshine, let’s not rewrite history.”
“Hunh?”
“So eloquent. I did not drag you into this family, you bulldozed your way in, with Michael, and sometimes me, kicking and screaming all the way.” Justin at least had the decency to blush when he was called on his revision of the past.
“Second, when this family is involved in a project they get so engrossed that they wouldn’t know if the world stopped around them, let alone that you and I are wearing rings. The only one who’s that observant is Ted, which is another reason, beside the obvious, to have him in on it from the start.”
“He really can keep a secret. I’m shocked.”
“He probably told the counselor at home, but Blake’s profession is keeping secrets about all his clients and Ted wants to keep his very lucrative position at Kinnetik.”
“You know that it’s more than that.”
“Maybe,” was all Brian would confess to, and then he winked. “It won’t matter soon.”
“Thank goodness. I’ve been putting off seeing Daphne and she’s beginning to get irritated with me.”
“Mustn’t irritate your hag.”
The two finished getting dressed and set off for the Grand Opening.
When they arrived there was a small red carpet leading to the edge of the sidewalk and camera crews from two of the local Pittsburgh network affiliates. Mayor Deekins turned up to get a little free publicity and to surreptitiously payback one of those in the community that had secured his position in office. A few other local dignitaries showed up as well, including the Chairman of the Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce.
Cynthia had certainly done her homework and made sure that anyone who wanted Kinnetik to remain based in Pittsburgh would show up to support the best friend of Kinnetik’s CEO.
Brian and Justin took their place on the sidewalk and waited to enter through a door that was decorated similarly to the one that had ushered in the first Rage party at Babylon.
“Are you sure you’re okay with this Brian? It really does bring back some awful memories, along with the good ones.”
“Remember Justin, Rage lived on and JT returned to his rightful place at his side. This just completes that story.”
Justin leaned in close to Brian and kissed his cheek, “I love you.”
“I know.” Brian smiled realizing that he really did know and was secure for the first time in his entire life. It was a strange feeling but one he had no intention of ever releasing.
The party was a smash and everyone was having a great time. After an hour filled with toasts and, thankfully, brief but meaningful speeches by Michael, the Mayor and the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, the media and local officials left along with several other invited guests. Soon it was just the family and a few additional close friends.
Emmett was about to turn on some upbeat dance music, now that there was space for the little group to let loose, but Brian stopped him.
Brian and Emmett got everyone’s attention and then Brian took the floor. “Earlier tonight I toasted Michael and his new store, along with Ben and Hunter and Debbie, but I now have an additional toast that was not for the media to see.”
“Uh oh, this doesn’t sound good,” Debbie yelled.
“Patience, and all will be revealed.” Brian continued as the small group looked back and forth with apprehension. Jennifer, Ted, Cynthia, and Blake were the only ones who understood the significance of this moment and none of them were about to ruin it for Brian and Justin.
“First, Justin and I would like to present Michael with two special gifts. The first was just about the only thing that was salvageable from Red Cape Comics. Justin took it and we brought it to a restorer and here is the free standing cut-out from the wedding issue of Rage.”
Everyone gasped and then spontaneously applauded. Michael literally walked up to the cut-out and ran his fingers up and down the edge. “Thank you, this is incredible.”
“Wait, Mikey, there’s more. Justin, our little genius, always thinks ahead. When you released the first issue of Rage he wanted to make sure that he always could treasure that little piece of history. So the young lad took five copies from the first box you ever opened, kept them in their special plastic shrink-wrap and purchased a safe deposit box at his bank.”
Michael’s eyes began to widen as Brian spoke but he said nothing as a tear of recognition slid down his cheek. “So Justin has decided that four will be enough for him and…” Justin brought one of the original first editions of Rage to Michael and gave it to him.
Michael gave Justin a bear hug, worthy of Debbie, and whispered, “You just brought Zephyr back to life. Thank you.” Justin stepped back as Michael held up the comic and everyone cheered and applauded louder than before.
Emmett chimed in, “Now can we dance?”
“If you’ll indulge me for one more minute.” Brian waved his right hand and Ted brought in a small white cake. “Justin and I decided that sometimes when the time for something is right you just do it. Two weeks ago we finally had the commitment ceremony, albeit just us and two witnesses, that was right for us.” Deb was about to yell at them both, but Brian raised his hand to stop her and Carl touched her arm to ground her.
“We did this our way, but we wanted to celebrate with our family when the time was right and tonight we celebrate. Justin come here. In honor of our wedded bliss,” Brian continued tongue in cheek, “I have appropriated two tickets for a honeymoon that I hope you approve of.” He gave the tickets to Justin who read the note from Brian’s travel agent.
“Here are your tickets to see The Masters. Enjoy your holiday in Italy and France.” Justin vaulted himself into Brian’s arms and thanked him. “And I’m sure I’ll be able to squeeze in some shopping between museum visits.”
Then Michael smiled and nodded at Justin as he brought out what he had thought was a mere present, and now realized was a wedding gift. He handed the painting to Justin and smiled, “Here you go, keep him happy and loved. No one else can.” Justin nodded, smiled and accepted the painting.
“Brian, you’re not the only one who can arrange a surprise. It may not be a trip halfway around the world, but someday it might be a masterpiece.”
Brian lifted the cloth off the painting and his breath caught in his throat. “Oh Sunshine, this is a masterpiece already.” To the untrained eye the painting was a cyclone of colors, brighter and bolder as they rose. Within the cyclone were splashes of pinks and beiges with olive tones and flecks of baby-blue and greenish-brown.
“Do you see what it is?”
“Yes, no explanation needed.”
“I knew you would, only you would.”
“Is this the project…”
“Yes.”
Brian handed the painting back to Michael who returned it to the easel in the storage room for safe keeping, and gave Justin a kiss to demonstrate all the love and passion he couldn’t say verbally. Message was received loud and clear.
“Anyone who wants to see my painting can view it, but no touching. It will hang over the mantel at Britin when we move in.”
Several of their friends asked about the loft. Justin responded, “The loft isn’t going anywhere. There are too many special memories. But at Britin we can have a life, and the space to enjoy it. And it will make my commute to a studio that much easier as one of the rooms will be converted into my studio.”
With relief and joy all around everyone grabbed a partner or just danced amongst the group as Emmett finally got to turn on the dance music.
Everyone came over to personally congratulate and reprimand Brian and Justin. When they both pointed out repeatedly that they had their wedding rings in plain sight the entire time there were laughs and, “Oh shit, no fucking way,” uttered over and over.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
By the time Justin and Brian got home from the Grand Opening/Wedding Reception they were tired and wired. After placing his painting in a safe place in the corner of the loft, Brian grabbed Justin and said, “It’s about time we had our first dance.”
“Oh really. I suppose you’ve selected some corny old song.” Justin smirked.
“Hardly.” Brian walked over to his home theater system and pushed the number 1. “You missed the re-opening of Babylon so I had to dance to this alone but somehow I always think of you and how you make me feel when I hear this.”
The first notes of Proud filtered through the speakers and Justin smiled. Brian was once again reminded as to why Debbie called him ‘Sunshine’.
“I really did learn to be the best homosexual I could possibly be. That’s because I learned from the best. I love you, Brian.”
Brian lifted Justin off the ground and spun him around. He lowered him slowly and whispered in his ear as they continued their dance, to a rhythm far slower than the beat of the music, “I love you, Justin, always have, always will – no regrets.”
[TBC with Epilogue]
![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 11:54 am (UTC)you have outdone yourself, this is AWESOMLY beautiful!! of course I started crying already when Brian got up to make the toast, but that last line...
fuck
...just killed me.
*grabs new box of Kleenex*
congrats on a job more than well done, 17 chapters strong!!!
*stands up and applauds*
RR
no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 12:12 pm (UTC)I'm so pleased that you've enjoyed this entire fic. The epilogue will probably go up tomorrow.
***BIG SMOOCHES & SENDS MORE KLEENEX***
no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 12:19 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 12:33 pm (UTC)Have a great day! ♥
no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 02:11 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 05:06 pm (UTC)Thank you so much for that wonderful compliment!
I'll be posting the epilogue tomorrow. :D
no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 03:08 pm (UTC)Yeah, that is such an I love you from Brian. That he can look at that time, that awful time, and realize they both "needed" that to happen for the two of them to realize, really realize, that they were soulmates.
Those lines are two of the most beautiful I have ever read to describe our boys.
I am so going to miss this. I may have asked this before, but is this in a place where it can be printed out without comments?? this is one I'd like to reread, especially in its entirety. It has been such a wonderful look at the future of the two of them and the rest of the family.
You should feel proud-ha ha PROUD!!
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Date: 2007-12-28 05:11 pm (UTC)I'm so pleased that you would like to read this as one complete fic.
As soon as the posting-maintainer from Moonshadow Tribe returns from her holiday I'll send her the rest of the fic. In addition, in my last post for this fic I'll invite people who would like the entire WORD file to e-mail me at my LJ e-mail.
That's such a HUGE compliment!!!
I've relished all your wonderful comments/feedback. Thank you! ♥
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Date: 2007-12-28 04:31 pm (UTC)i think it was important that ben say something to hunter about his illness and hunter's reaction here was well written:
"You know when Vic died I kind of freaked out a bit, but seeing you sick really scared me to death, so to speak.” Hunter smirked at the irony of the phrase. “I will definitely let you and Michael know if something doesn’t feel right, even though we both know he’ll queen out immediately.”
a lol moment with brian and justin:
"This family, that you dragged me into, is usually alert to every detail of everyone’s life.”
“First of all Sunshine, let’s not rewrite history.”
“Hunh?”
“So eloquent. I did not drag you into this family, you bulldozed your way in, with Michael, and sometimes me, kicking and screaming all the way.” Justin at least had the decency to blush when he was called on his revision of the past.
i enjoyed seeing mayor deekins on the guest list for the opening of "all the rage", the references to canon enhance your fic for me. and of course, i would expect nothing but the finest from cynthia in the planning!
and the part that made me teary...PROUD, and brian's words:
“You missed the re-opening of Babylon so I had to dance to this alone but somehow I always think of you and how you make me feel when I hear this.”
nothing can beat your final line of dialog here:
“I love you, Justin, always have, always will – no regrets.”
everything you wrote for these beloved characters worked for me...i think you did them PROUD.
jeannie
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Date: 2007-12-28 05:18 pm (UTC)Now you have me weeping...at work!
I have to admit that part of the pleasure of each of these posts was looking forward to hearing from you. You're overwhelming support always made me smile!
I felt that Hunter & Ben NEEDED to have a talk.
Any fic, based in canon, needs to include canon references (IMO) and they need to be placed so as not to be anvils dropped in for no reason.
Brian and Justin have truly become the best homosexuals they could possibly be.
Thank you for everything!!! ♥
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Date: 2007-12-28 05:01 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 05:18 pm (UTC)Thank you soooo much! :D
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Date: 2007-12-28 07:06 pm (UTC)Wow. I can't believe it's the last chapter :( At least there's still an epilogue to go.
AMAZING.
Hugs,
Arlad
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Date: 2007-12-28 08:41 pm (UTC)I'm so happy that you saw and enjoyed all those closures from previous moments in canon.
I knew before I even started writing what the gifts would be in the final chapter. I just had to wait to see the best way to present them.
"Proud" is such an important part of the show and wanted to close the main body of the fic with it.
AMAZING is such a huge compliment.
I love knowing that you've been sticking with me the whole way!
*Hugs back* ♥
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Sorry,but,I have to say this in Spanish, when something likes me that much, my English just dissapear,here it goes: me encantó tu historia, la forma en que escribiste los dialogos es increible!!!! tan reales,tan de Brian y Justin,y ver que finalmente se casan, fué lo mejor, te agradezco por haber publicado esta gran historia,no soy muy fan de las "fan-fic" pero en cuanto encontré ésta, sabía que no me equivocaba, que ere una de las mejores, te felicito y espero que sigas escribiendo más, ya que lo haces muy bien, FELICITACIONES!!!!!
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Date: 2007-12-28 08:50 pm (UTC)I'm so glad that you were happy with how Justin and Brian solidified their relationship. :D
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Sorry about this Spanish thing but, this is true, when something really, really likes me, my Englis vanished, don't ask me why,but it happens.
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Date: 2007-12-28 10:19 pm (UTC)no subject
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Date: 2007-12-28 07:54 pm (UTC)Congratulations again on completing this fantastic story in time for NaNoWriMo!! you did great!
I'm so happy you are doing and Epilogue ; )
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Date: 2007-12-28 10:32 pm (UTC)I always knew how this fic would end and "Proud" had to be the song.
The epilogue will be up tomorrow. :D
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Date: 2007-12-28 09:22 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-12-28 10:39 pm (UTC)Your support has been so important to me! ♥
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Date: 2007-12-28 10:06 pm (UTC)I'm going to miss them a lot! *I know there is an Epilogue, but still, that was the perfect ending, more than 5x13*
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Date: 2007-12-28 10:41 pm (UTC)I'm so glad that you enjoyed this so much and that it gave you and ending that you could enjoy.
This final chapter was very special to me. :D
The epilogue will be up tomorrow.
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Date: 2007-12-28 11:09 pm (UTC)As Michael said "Then he came along and everything changed". For everyone's sake, thank goodness!
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Date: 2007-12-29 12:35 am (UTC)I'm so glad that this ending worked well for you. I actually had the end very well thought out right from the start.
Michael was absolutely right...when Justin came along everything changed...and for the better.
Thank you so much for sharing this journey with me! ♥
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Date: 2007-12-28 11:53 pm (UTC)*is trying not to cry*
Why, why, why couldn't CowLip have given us a fantastic ending like this?
*sighs*
I can't believe it's almost over!
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Date: 2007-12-29 12:38 am (UTC)I know C/L didn't give us a tolerable ending, but I hope that this helps heal the wounds. *HUGS*
It means so much to me that you stuck with me for this journey. I'm ready to write more and fully get involved in proofing Healing now.
The epilogue will be up some time tomorrow.
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Date: 2007-12-28 11:59 pm (UTC)I had to go listen to Proud to get over my sniffles.
Thanks so much for sharing. I really enjoyed reading!
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Date: 2007-12-29 12:43 am (UTC)I listen to "Proud" frequently, and it always makes me feel good.
*Hugs*
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Date: 2007-12-29 02:07 am (UTC)Love that. This was a beautiful and uplifting chapter.
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Date: 2007-12-29 02:10 pm (UTC)***HUGS***
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Date: 2007-12-29 04:39 am (UTC)You did such a superb job on this. I hate to see it end.
Hugs
Patty
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Date: 2007-12-29 02:12 pm (UTC)I'm so glad you've enjoyed this fic. It was very special to me!
***HUGS***
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Date: 2007-12-29 12:03 pm (UTC)I loved this chapter - every single word.
This was the funniest moment:
“You know, I can’t believe no one has really paid attention to our rings. This family, that you dragged me into, is usually alert to every detail of everyone’s life.”
“First of all Sunshine, let’s not rewrite history.”
“Hunh?”
“So eloquent. I did not drag you into this family, you bulldozed your way in, with Michael, and sometimes me, kicking and screaming all the way.”
The second I read 'you dragged me into' I was all 'Funny, I remember it a little differently'. I loved that moment and the easy flow of the conversation here.
This was the most romantic & sweetest moment:
“Oh really. I suppose you’ve selected some corny old song.” Justin smirked.
“Hardly.” Brian walked over to his home theater system and pushed the number 1. “You missed the re-opening of Babylon so I had to dance to this alone but somehow I always think of you and how you make me feel when I hear this.”
The first notes of Proud filtered through the speakers and Justin smiled. Brian was once again reminded as to why Debbie called him ‘Sunshine’.
“I really did learn to be the best homosexual I could possibly be. That’s because I learned from the best. I love you, Brian.”
Brian lifted Justin off the ground and spun him around. He lowered him slowly and whispered in his ear as they continued their dance, to a rhythm far slower than the beat of the music, “I love you, Justin, always have, always will – no regrets.”
First off, the things they say to each other here are so beautiful, so perfect. It made me cry. And secondly, I've never read about 'Proud' being 'their song', but it's the best choice you could have made. It's really them; it fits so much better than some slow, romantic song and I loved Brian's explanation.
And this was the saddest moment (which needs no further explanation, really):
[TBC with Epilogue]
*hugs and smooches*
Anna
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Date: 2007-12-29 02:30 pm (UTC)It was definitely a strange feeling reaching the end and I, too was saddened by it in many ways.
***BIG HUGS & SMOOCHES BACK***
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Date: 2007-12-29 09:32 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-12-30 01:22 am (UTC)Thank you for reading! :D
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Date: 2007-12-30 03:34 am (UTC)You made this a wonderful enchanting tale of really bringing together everything I ever wanted in a post season five fic, minus the m-preg *smirks but I'm doing that so that's okay. heheheheheh* sorry but yeah.. it was all I could have hoped for and I can't wait to read the epilogue.
The masters comment too! I loved that!
Much appreciation, Rory
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Date: 2007-12-30 01:58 pm (UTC)Thank you so much for being so supportive of this fic. I always knew how the fic would end and I couldn't wait to get there...in a logical way.
***HUGS***
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Date: 2007-12-30 12:54 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2007-12-30 02:05 pm (UTC)I hope your New Year will bring lots of joy to you and your family AND I do hope that we'll get to visit with each other soon!!! ***HUGS***
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Date: 2008-04-09 06:58 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2008-04-10 12:25 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2008-11-16 07:19 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2008-11-16 10:06 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-11-19 12:06 pm (UTC)All of these were wonderful. There is not a one I didn't completely enjoy.
I've laughed, teared up, and wanted to smack a couple of folk. GOOD WORK............
Thanks.....
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Date: 2009-11-19 12:15 pm (UTC)I'm so glad you enjoyed this and your feedback made my day! :D