Date: Sat, 19 Feb 2005 20:44:12 EST
From: Pete1211@aol.com
Subject: Lance JC and Astral Fan 54 Boybands

	Damn, these parts just keep getting longer and longer. I had to
split this one up was well. Oh, well. Better get to it.

	This story is complete Bullshit. Not even a glimpse of real life in
any word. NSYNC is NOT gay to this author's knowledge in real life. But in
his fantasy Oh, baby! Oh, you can read that can't you. Sorry, no sex this
time. Well, that just lost me 1/2 my readers, oh well.

Part 54

	Joey was at the computer.
	"Internet porn again? What would your girlfriend think?"
	Joey didn't even look at Chris. "The same as yours and this is
about as far from porn as you can get."
	Chris leaned close. "Christian Universities? That's not going to
help your sex life."
	Joey raised his hand, "I'm not even going to let you start." He
went back to work on the computer.
	After a few moments of silence Chris gave in. "Okay, okay, no
jokes. What are you doing?"
	"Research. I'm looking into the background of the Great Reverend
Welks."
	"Why?"
	"Just curious. I think Reverend Welks' reputation has grown bigger
than the man. I want to find the facts."
	"Surely, our lawyers would know that."
	"They just looked into his legal cases."
	"Why are you so worried about Welks all of a sudden?"
	"Okay, I'm trying to cut him down to size."
	"Plus you want to help and you're going crazy waiting around doing
nothing."
	"Hell, yes."
	Chris grabbed a chair. "Then bring it on. This waiting is driving
me sane."
	"Sane?"
	Chris flashed Joey a look.
	"Oh, got it." Joey turned back to the screen. "I've tried these two
universities with no luck."
	"Well, duh, Joey. Think of his employer."
	"Why?"
	"Because Mr. 700 Club has his own university."
	"So."
	Chris leaned close, "They recruit from their own ranks you know. If
Welks showed promise he was probably signed on as an apprentice and was
taken under the Chairman's right wing."
	Joey clicked on the link. "Here we are. Maybe I should get a barf
bag."
	"Cute," Chris pointed. "Click there for alumni."
	"What? No password or registration?"
	"Hey, this is advertising for them. You too can be trained to be a
God-fearing, Bible belching, Holier than Thou, talking about love and
really preaching hate and intolerance religious figure." Chris threw his
arms in the air, "Hallelujah!" Chris pointed again. "There is Welks's
name."
	Joey clicked. The screen filled with the information.
	"Sweet Jesu-mmm."
	Chris slapped his hand over Joey's mouth. "Don't say that name
while we at this site. Save it to when you mean it." Chris removed his
hand.
	"Look at all the titles. This guy needs a phone book for a business
card. How long was he in college? He must have started when he was seven
years old."
	"Scroll down. The latest stuff is on the bottom."
	"We're at the bottom. There's no enrollment date."
	"That's funny."
	"Why? Maybe he changed his name."
	Chris nodded. "That way no one could check his past. I bet he got a
young girl pregnant or better yet it was a guy."
	"Stop it, Chris. He probably had some horrid name like Jack
Meehoff."
	"Or Oral Roberts," Chris added. "Sounds like two gay guys named
Bob."
	 "Then he changed his name to be more scholarly or spiritual like
Father Flanagan, Pastor Nelson or Reverend Thompson."
	"Well, check some others. See what info is there."
	After a bit, "See most of the other all have registration dates. I
think that is very suspicious."
	"He might have transferred from another school. Did you think of
that?"
	"What are you on his side now?"
	"I just don't want to get carried away on something we have no
proof."
	"I think we should mention this to our lawyers. They have the clout
to dig deeper."
	"Chris, this really isn't anything much to go on."
	"Well then keep surfing. Maybe we'll find something else."


	"I won't do it." Will slammed his hand down on the desk.
	"You have to." Justin shot back. "I am the only one you have that
saw what happened. Well, pretty much. I have to say what I know to defend
Peter."
	"Do you forget that Welks gets to cross examine? If he has the
least hint of your relationship with Peter he can out you. You`ll be under
oath. You`d have to tell the truth."
	Justin stood tall, "I am not ashamed of Peter or our relationship."
	"Well, Welks doesn't feel the same. He'll make a mockery of your
love. He'll turn anything you say against you. Do you want that?"
	Justin slowly slumped. He shook his head.
	Will felt Justin`s powerlessness. "But I will tell you this if I
have to I will have you in that witness stand. I just think I can win this
without it. I know Peter understands why I can`t call you. But there are
other worries."
	"Other worries?"
	Ben sat forward. "As we did our research we found out that others
have been looking into the same records especially Peter's. His medical
history and the police charges. Someone or some group are delving into
NSYNC's history along with Peter's and I doubt it is for writing a glowing
tribute. This whole case wasn't an accident. It was very carefully and
meticulously planned."
	Will sat on the edge of his desk. "That is why I don't want to call
you as a witness until I am sure it is safe. I have an idea that might just
work but it depends on the judge."
	Ben smiled. "Well, we won out there."
	"How?" asked Justin.
	"If the Reverend Welks would have held out for two more days he
would have had a more sympathetic judge. One who is more on his side. But
he rushed this trial ahead. I don't think he is looking for a
conviction. He's looking to use this trial as media springboard. Dirt is
great in the tabloids but dirt found out during a trial is even better
because it has the ring of truth. Don't worry. We know Welks's
methods. Peter will be safe. We swear it."
	They went into the outer room to find the rest of the group
waiting.
	"Justin here already?"
	"Of course, Chris. He's looking out for his lover."
	Ben walked over to Peter. "You feel up to this?"
	"Well, I have no choice do I?" Peter saw the look of concern on
Justin's face.  He changed tact. "Well, it is a little like my first time
on Space Mountain at Walt Disney World. You know you will end up safe but
the in-between parts are a bit scary."
	Will smiled. "Trust us.  Come on."
	As they left Chris leaned into Ben. "Did you get my E-Mail?"
	"Yep, and we are checking into it. Thank you for the lead."
	Chris beamed, "No problem."
	Ben didn't have the heart to tell Chris that they knew about
Welks's university days already. But he was impressed by their effort.


	The sound of the gavel made Peter jump.
	"That woke him up."
	"Chris, sh."
	JC patted Lance's knee. "I know what Chris meant."
	"So do I. Peter has been in a funk all day."
	"Do you blame him?"
	Lance almost sneered, "Peter on trial is such a travesty."
	"Look at him," Chris nodded to Welks. "He even has a bandage on his
head. Who is he fooling?"
	JC raised a finger to his lips. They needed to be quiet.


	". . .court is now in session. The honorable. . ." blah, blah,
blah.
	The words were a blur. How many times had Peter heard them before
in movies and on television? But this time it was happening to him. He was
at that table in front with a lawyer on each side. The gavel strike had
startled him. He pulled the world back into focus.
	Welks was talking. "And I tend to prove that the defendant did
attack my person on the night in question."
	The judge seemed bored. "Call your first witness."
	Will stood up. "Please, your honor I have a question to pose to the
prosecutor before we begin with the trial."
	"If the prosecutor has no objections?"
	Welks replied, "I have none, your honor."
	"Proceed."
	"If I may Reverend Welks I see that you have a new injury I hope it
is not serious."
	The Reverend Welks touched the bandage on his temple. "Oh, nothing
really. It will heal."
	"I just wanted to point out," Will continued, "That according to
the medical records that your honor has a copy of, Welks' wounds on that
night required no bandage. I make mention of it only to make sure that this
new wound is not thought to have been acquired on the night in question."
	"I am so sorry, your honor," Welks almost bowed, "I was teaching a
boy at the shelter to play catch and his aim was a bit erratic. I never
would have thought that it could be misconstrued as happening that
night. My apologizes to the court."
	The judge sat back in his chair. "Proceed with your first witness."
	Welks barely held in check a glare at the defending consul.
	"That got him."
	"Quiet, Ben. That was just small potatoes. We need to keep on our
toes."


	"He approached you," The witness glanced up at the judge. He
remembered that he was to be specific. "Sorry, he approached the Reverend
Welks, your honor." The witness pointed to Peter, "I saw him raise his
fist. Then he hit you."
	"And you are sure you saw this."
	"Yes."
	Welks smiled. "No further questions, your honor."
	"Consul?"
	Will stood up, "You saw Peter raise his fist?"
	"Yes."
	"And then you saw my client strike Reverend Welks?"
	The witness paused slightly. "Yes, he hit Reverend Welks."
	"You saw my client strike Reverend Welks?"
	The witness paused again, "Yes, he hit Reverend Welks."
	"You are sure it was my client that hit Reverend Welks."
	The witness glanced around a bit. "He hit Reverend Welks."
	Reverend Welks stood up. "How many times need the witness say what
he saw?"
	"Just making sure of his testimony," Will sat down. "No further
questions, your honor."
	Peter looked surprised. Surely the witness was lying
	Will saw the look and leaned over to Peter. "We need a bit more
proof."
	The next two witnesses told the same story and each time Will had
them repeat and repeat it.
	As the next witness was called Will leaned to Peter, "If this one
says the same thing we've got him."
	"He attacked Reverend Welks so I tried to help. My sign slipped and
caught the defendant against the back of his head. It was an accident. I
didn't mean to hit him with the sign. I just wanted to pull him off you,"
He glanced at the Judge, "Sorry, off Reverend Welks."
	Welks looked apologetic. "I am sure you didn't mean any real harm
to the defendant. You just got caught up in the rush."
	"Yes, sir, that's right. I'm not a violent person. I was deeply
distressed when I saw Peter fall. I'm just glad it wasn't serious."
	Welks turned and almost smiled, "Your witness." He walked back to
sit down.
	Will stood up. "You are sure you saw my client hit Reverend Welks."
	Welks turned. "How many times do they have to repeat this, your
honor? The witness is under oath."
	Will added, "Your pardon, your honor. After the witness replies I
will make my reasons known."
	The judge nodded. "Very well." He turned to the witness, "Answer
the question."
	The witness replied. "The defendant raised his fist. Then he hit
Reverend Welks."
	"Thank you." Will walked to the bench. "Your honor, I would like
the transcripts of all the witnesses' answers to that question read again."
	Welks was on his feet. "Do we need to hear this over and over?
Isn't once enough?"
	"I have a point, your honor."
	The judged sighed, "The clerk will read the witnesses' responses."
	Welks sat down angrily.
	The clerk read the witnesses statements aloud.
	After he was done Welks snapped. "I hope you are happy."
	Will replied. "Now your honor, I will make my point. It is all a
matter of punctuation and the pronoun 'he' and 'him'."
	"Do we get a basic grammar lesson now?" Welks sneered.
	"If the prosecutor will let me finish?" Will started pacing. "In
each case when the witness said they saw my client raise his fist they
named him by name. But when they said who actually struck Reverend Welks it
was always 'him' and `he'". My client wasn't mentioned."
	Welks leaned on the table. "His client is a male and therefore a
"him". I don't see what good this is doing us."
	"If I may demonstrate?" Will walked over to Peter. "Peter, raise
your fist." Peter did as he was told. "Now Ben hit Peter lightly on the
shoulder." Ben did as he was instructed. Will turned back to the
judge. "That is my point."
	Welks sneered. "This is silly. I think the consul should stop
wasting the court's time with such nonsense."
	"Oh, it's not nonsense. It is vital to understand the witnesses'
testimony." Will walked up to the bench. "Your honor, I can now say I just
saw my client raise his fist then I saw him," Will pointed at Ben, "hit
him. That was one statement but it included two people. One raised his fist
and one did the hitting. I believe none of the witnesses saw my client
assault Reverend Welks. They just want to infer it with a carefully worded
statement."
	Welks stood up. "I object to this reasoning. The consul is wasting
our time."
	Will turned back to the witness. "One last time, did you see my
client hit Reverend Welks? And be specific."
	"I saw him. . ."
	Will drew close to the witness his voice loud and firm. "No, not
'him', use my clients name! You are under oath. Did you see my client
actually hit Reverend Welks?" Will pointed at Peter. "It was Peter and no
one else?"
	The witness was struggling.
	"Did you see him attack Welks? Say his name!"
	The witness didn't know what to say. He looked at Welks then
away. Finally he burst out. "Well, if he didn't who did?"
	Will slapped the rail. "Thank you."
 	"Objection over ruled, Mr. Welks."
	Will stood in front of the bench. "Your honor, I maintain that none
of the witnesses actually saw my client hit the Reverend Welks. Not one in
their testimony accused my client specifically. They used a pronoun that
could have meant any male person. No further questions for this witness
your honor."
	The judge looked stern, "Before the witness steps down does he
understand the meaning of perjury?"
	The witness was worried. "Please, your honor. We didn't lie. A few
of us got together. It had to be Peter that attacked Reverend Welks but no
one saw the attack. But we knew we would be under oath. We're God fearing
people, your honor. We know better that to take God's name in vain. So
someone came up with using "he" and "him" for the attacker part. There were
no ladies around at the time so it had to be a male. So in any event we
weren't lying." He turned to Peter with almost a sneer. "It had to be Peter
who did it. No one else was close enough to have done it."
	The judge looked sternly at the witness. "That's what this trial is
to prove. But even though in your mind you weren't lying you were impeding
justice or at least giving false witness. What if Peter is innocent?" asked
the judge.  "You'd have played a part in condemning an innocent man. Just
remember that. The witness may step down."
	The witness returned to his seat.
	Welks stood up. "Your honor, I wish to put in a plea for the people
of my congregation. They acted from their hearts not their heads."
	"I am considering, Mr. Welks, and the word is perjury all be it
unintended."
	Will put in, "Your honor, I am sure. . ."
	"Please, consul. This is my decision. Mr. Welks, can you produce
any witnesses that will precisely identify the defendant in the assault?"
	Welks looked somewhat dejected. "Not at this time, your honor."
	"Do you have anymore witnesses to call?"
	"Not at this time, your honor."
	"Very well, we will then move on to hear from the defense."
	"Your honor," Will began, "Since it seems that Reverend Welks has
not produced any witnesses to prove his side of the case I move that the
charges should be dropped."
	"Your point is taken." The judge thought a bit. "Under the
circumstances. . ."
	Reverend Welks stood up. "Does the defense have any witnesses that
can attest to seeing the assault?"
	The judge had an edge to his voice. "Mr. Welks, if you will let me
finish."
	"Sorry, your honor." Welks sat down.
	The judge sat back. "I feel it is fair in this case to hear both
sides. Mr. Welks has yet to prove his case but the defense hasn't proven
him wrong. So to ask Mr. Welks' question, does the consul have any
witnesses that can attest to seeing the assault?"
	Will stood up. "Not at this time, your honor. We have not found
anyone to come forward that had witnessed the assault. They saw everything
leading up to it and after it but not the act itself. But I do have
witnesses that will attest to Peter's character and that such violence is
beyond his nature."
	The judge sat back. "Then proceed."
	"I call Johnny Wright to the stand."


	"I didn't meet Peter that first time when he saved JC but I did
when the tour returned. It was then that Peter had discovered the sabotage
to the stage. I made it a point to join NSYNC and Peter for dinner. Lance
and JC had taken a shine to Peter. I wanted to get to know him
better. Well, I was their manager."
	"And what did you think of Peter?"
	"I've never met anyone quite like him. He was very shy and lonely
but very honest. He answered every question I asked him. He was a little
embarrassed and some of the answers were more personal than I meant but he
answered everyone. I soon realized that he posed no threat to the guys. In
fact he proved to be quite the opposite."
	"How so?"
	"Well, we made him a temporary member of the crew. His abilities
really helped at the concerts. He helped out pointing out people that were
getting a little out of control. He even saved a girl from getting
seriously injured in falling as she climbed on the stage. Peter has been a
real asset."
	"Mr. Wright, have you ever know Peter to be violent?"
	"Only once. That was when he was being gay bashed, ah,
attacked. Peter fought back to get away from his attacker. That is the only
time I have known Peter to be violent." John paused. "Wait, there was
another. No, Peter didn't even touch him then."
	"Mr. Wright?"
	"Peter was home visiting his mother after her surgery. His brother
came home to steal from his parents. Peter threw him out of the house but I
wasn`t there. I was just told about that."
	"These were the only two occasions that you know about when Peter
used force?"
	"Yes."
	"Did they seem justified to you?"
	"Yes, in both cases Peter was protecting something. The first it
was himself and the next was his parents."
	"And to the best of your knowledge do you think Peter could have
attacked the Reverend Welks?"
	"No, I don't think Peter could have done that.  Violence it
repugnant to him."
	"Thank you, Mr. Wright. Your witness." Will went and sat down.
	Welks smiling walked to the witness stand.
	"Mr. Wright, you just said that violence was repugnant to Peter."
	"Yes."
	"Yet you just described two instances where Peter was violent or
should I say used force. Sounds like it wasn`t all that repugnant to him."
	"Well, in the first case Peter was attacked. It was self defense."
	"And the last one when he was at his parent's home?"
	"His brother was stealing from his parents. He was defending his
mother."
	"How noble of him."
	"I'm afraid I can only tell you what I was told. I wasn't there."
	"So you only have Peter's word for what happened."
	"No, Justin was there. He witnessed it."
	Welks's turned. "Justin was there. Why Justin?"
	Alarms went off in John's head. He chose his answer
carefully. "Peter is friends with all of NYSNC. We thought Peter might need
help with his mother and we wanted someone to be with him. Justin was
free. Any of the others would have gone but in this case it was Justin."
	"How do you know these things?"
	"The guys tell me everything. They keep no secrets from me."
	"I see. Could there be another reason Justin went with Peter, a
more personal one?"
	"They're all friends. We've all become quite fond of Peter."
	Welks tried again. "Could there be a closer connection between
Peter and Justin?"
	Again John chose his words carefully. "Justin wanted to be there to
help Peter if he needed it. As for the others," John paused, "Wait, I do
remember. Lance and JC met them later."
	"Lance and JC flew out later? Surely Peter didn't need the help of
three people."
	"They weren't there to help Peter. They were there to watch Peter's
send off."
	"His send off?"
	"Since Peter was going to live in Orlando he had that Sunday to say
goodbye to his friends at his church."
	Welks snapped around, "His church?"
	"Yes. They have a sending off ceremony. Lance and JC wanted to be
there for it. I heard it was very moving."
	"I'm sure. But that weekend Justin and Peter were alone in the
house with Peter's mother who was still under medication after her surgery
were they not?"
	"No. They had barely got back from the hospital when Peter's
brother showed up. Right after Peter's brother, ah, left, Peter's father
came home. He had transferred to an army base near their house so he could
look after Peter's mother since Peter was moving away. So I guess Peter's
parents were with them all weekend."
	Welks seemed to be thinking hard. "You mentioned Peter's
abilities. Can you elaborate?"
	John hesitated but he was under oath. He replied, "Peter was
certain mental gifts. Aura reading is a big one. That is how he could tell
if the people at the concerts were getting too wild. He even pointed out
this one girl to security and when she rushed the stage security was
waiting. He helped protect NSYNC on many occasions."
	Welks frowned. "I see." He paused. "What did you think about having
an out gay man being with JC and Lance?"
	"It was good for them. They had someone they could relate and talk
to."
	"And this ceremony idea and their coming out did that happened
before or after Peter's arrival?"
	"After."
	"And do you think Peter had anything to do with it?"
	"Maybe, Lance and JC had never spent much time with an out gay man
before. Peter may have been an example to them."
	"So since Peter has been around he has had quite the impact on
NYSNC and the people around them."
	"Oh, yes, definitely."
	Welks smiled. "Thank you, No further questions."
	Welks walked back to his seat. He gestured to a younger man sitting
behind the rail. He leaned in and they whispered for a while then the young
man left.
	"Does the defense have more witnesses?"
	"Yes, your honor, but if I may ask for a ruling?"
	"But you have only called one witness."
	"Yes, your honor, I am thinking of the other witnesses I wish to
call. I don`t want them to be compromised in any way."
	"How?"
	"The assault happened outside a party showing support for two gay
men. The accused is also a gay man. The court is fully aware of Reverend
Welks' stand on homosexuality."
	"So?"
	"I am afraid that more than my client's character will be dragged
into this.  Therefore I would like your ruling on if the private sex life
of my client and that of my witnesses will be permissible evidence."
	Justin looked at Welks. He seemed anxious.
	The judge thought for awhile then sat forward. "This is a case of
physical assault not sexual assault. I don't see why sex should enter into
it. It is the accuser's character we are looking into not his bed manner.
I hereby rule that the private sexual lives of both the accused and the
consul's witnesses will not be heard as evidence."
	Welks leapt to his feet. "But your honor, the accused is gay. Sex
is the one driving matter in their life, his life. You're cutting off the
one means that motivates everything that homosexuals do. It's like telling
a fish not to swim."
	The judge grew stern. "Mr. Welks, this is not the dark ages.
Stereotypes do not belong in a court of law. You are a lawyer and I would
like you to remember that. My ruling stands."
	Welks dropped back into his chair.
	"Ooh, that's got him."
	"Chris, be quiet."
	The judge sighed and looked at his watch. "Since we got a late
start and it is getting late, let's take this up in the morning." He took
up the gavel. "This court is adjourned until nine o'clock tomorrow
morning." There was a loud bang of the gavel. The judge departed.
	Peter gave a visible sigh of relief.


	"That wasn't so bad."
	Peter rolled his eyes. "You don't have a front row seat, Chris. I
thought I'd die of a heart attack."
	Peter felt a hand on his. "Please, don't do that."
	Peter smiled at Justin. "You were the only thing that kept me
going."
	They leaned close then stopped.
	Joey waved his hand and looked away. "Just kiss already." After the
two lovers parted, "Well, that's over."
	"I don't think so," JC came downstairs. "Look at this." He grabbed
the remote and switched on the TV.
	"It was appalling!" It was Welks`s assistant. "They treated our
witnesses like dirt. The consul badgered them and forced them to repeat and
repeat their statements. It was as if he was making good Christian people
out to be liars."
	"Hey, they were."
	Lance hissed. "Joey, sh!"
	Welks's face filled the screen. "I am not giving up yet. Justice
will be done. God is on our side."
	"They always say that. Hell, both sides say that."
	"Chris, Joey, shut up!"
	"I didn't say anything." Joey protested, "That was Chris."
	"Sh!"
	It was Welks's assistant again. "They even got a ruling that their
sex lives aren't admissible in court."
	Welks just smiled. "Don't worry, God will win out. Even if I can't
bring out their decadent behavior God's truth will prevail." Then Welks
frowned. "It is too bad such a wholesome family oriented group like NSYNC
had to be corrupted by this person. But soon all will be revealed. The
world will know the truth in the end."
	"Gay sex always does." Chris looked around. No one was
listening. "Hey, that was a joke."
	"I know," JC said sadly. "It was a good one." He pointed at the
TV. "Unfortunately, what Reverend Welks said was also a joke but I don't
think it is at all funny."


	They were heading down the hall to the court room.
	Ben leaned over to Peter. "Ready to face your public?"
	"My what?"
	Ben nodded down the hall. Peter saw two men enter the courtroom.
	"Reporters. The publicity has started."
	Lance saw Peter pale a bit. "Don't worry, Peter, you've got people
on your side."
	Peter managed a smile. "I know. I'm glad you guys are here."
	Joey smirked, "And where else would we be."
	Chris opened the door and held it open for them. "Once more into
the breech, dear friends, once more."
	Will walked passed Chris. "You surprise me. I didn't think you'd be
so well read."
	Joey laughed. "It was a question in one of those trivia games and
it cost Chris the win."
	Chris frowned. "So I don't read much. Sue me."
	Ben smiled. "We can arrange that."
	Chris slapped his hand over his mouth. There was a muffled, "Never
mind."
	The first thing Peter noticed was the people. It had just been the
guys before. Then he recognized them. It was all the guys' mothers and
Lance and Justin's fathers. They stood up as he entered.
	Lynn smiled warmly. "Just wanted to show our support." She gave
Peter a hug. "It's not just the guys who are behind you on this."
	Peter tried to keep his voice from cracking. "Thank you. I
appreciate it." He made his way to the front.
	"Justin."
	He turned. It was Britney.
	"You, too."
	"What?"
	"Showing your support of Peter."
	"I had little choice." She waved a piece of paper. "I got served to
me last night."
	Justin went up to Will. "Why would you subpoena Britney? You just
had to ask."
	"He didn't." Britney explained.
	Justin looked puzzled. "Reverend Welks did?"
	Britney nodded.
	Will shook his head. "The guy is relentless. Sex lives are out but
an old girlfriend can say why you broke up."
	"But we weren't a couple."
	"Justin, will it matter?"
	"But Britney has nothing to do with the case."
	"Well, she does know Peter." Will patted Justin's shoulder. "Don't
worry, I'll think of something."


	Will stood by the witness stand. "And the gay bashing event is the
only time you know of that Peter has ever willfully hit anyone?"
	Lance answered. "Yes, Bill called us fags and that got Peter
angry. I guess you could say Peter was defending our honor."
	"I object, your honor," Welks stood up. "These witnesses have only
repeated what they have heard. None of them were at the scene of the gay
bashing, sorry, the assault."
	Will turned to the bench. "Your honor, these remarks match the
defendant's own sworn statement. This statement figured in the guilty
charge for the accused in that case. Surely what is good for one court is
good for another?"
	"Objection overruled. Proceed."
	"The telecast after that, whose idea was that?"
	"Well, Justin thought of it but we all agreed. John made the
arrangements."
	"Did Peter have anything to do with that decision?"
	"No, he was out of the room. But he was brave enough to actually
make a statement on the air. Peter was very shy back then. He almost didn't
press charges because he was intimidated by Bill. We were all proud of
him."
	"Peter was intimidated by Bill?"
	"Yes."
	"And Peter still did what he did?"
	"Yes, he didn't want Bill to do to anyone else what he did to Peter
and tried to do to us."
	"Thank you. No further questions." Will went back and sat down.
	Wells stood up.
	"You said that Peter fought back because he was defending your
honor."
	"Yes, he knew all too well what it was like being called a fag. He
hated it when we were called that."
	"So Peter was protective if you were called anything negative?"
	"At that time, yes. But he was under attack."
	"Would you say that the signs my people carried the night in
question may have been seen as negative to you?"
	"Sort of."
	"And couldn't Peter have been seen as protecting you from me just
like he did for Bill."
	"Yours wasn't a physical attack. Peter knows you are entitled to
your opinion even if he doesn't agree with it. He knew that we weren't
terribly upset by your being there so he had no cause to protect us from
you." Lance almost smiled at the look of disappointment on Welks's face.
	Welks continued. "This gay bashing incident happened in a locker
room?"
	"Yes."
	"What was Peter doing in the locker room in the first place?"
	"He was looking for Craig. He works for the stadium security."
	"A locker room seems a rather strange place to look for
person. This man Peter was looking for in this locker room wasn't he also
gay?"
	Lance felt his dread rise. "Yes."
	"Two gay men in an empty locker room? Weren't there rumors of a
possible sex liaison?"
	"They were just rumors."
	"Yes or no."
	"Yes, there were."
	"And didn't this Bill state that Peter had made an unwanted advance
on him? Didn't he say that Peter grabbed him?"
	"Peter didn't."
	"Yes or no, didn't he say Peter grabbed his crotch?"
	Lance was trapped. "Yes, he did."
	"Could it be that Peter was intimidated by Bill because Bill could
tell what really happened? That Peter had made an unwanted sexual advance
to him and it was Bill who was fighting off Peter not visa versa?"
	Will was on his feet. "Objection, your honor. This is pure
supposition on the prosecutor's part."
	"Objection sustained."
	Welks turned and slightly waved his hand. "Question withdrawn."
Wells turned, "No more questions your honor."  Smiling Welks sat down.


	"Well, Peter has changed since he has been with us." JC
replied. "He was so shy and withdrawn. It is nice to see him more outgoing
than he was."
	Will turned to Peter. "So being with NSYNC has influenced
Peter. Has he influenced you?"
	"As a friend, yes."
	"Now about your coming out and the wedding?"
	JC eyed Welks. "We prefer "ceremony". Our coming out was Lance and
my idea. In fact at the time of the news broadcast after Peter's assault we
talked about coming out to show support and it was Peter who objected. He
wanted us to come out when we were ready not to make it a political
statement. We agreed. Lance and I made the public aware of us when we
finally got our head around the possible reactions. As for the ceremony, I
proposed to Lance. That was my idea. I wanted to show Lance how much I
loved him. The guys may have planned our anniversary party but the rest was
all me."
	"No one else knew of your plan?"
	"I wanted it to be a complete surprise so I told no one."
	"You can't trust the guys to keep a secret?"
	"Well, we spend a lot of time together and sometimes things slip
out unintentionally. I wasn't taking any chances."
	"So would you say Peter had any affect on you and Lance?"
	"As much as the others guys were. You know, showing support and
being totally behind what we were doing. But even without knowing Peter
Lance and I would have come out and would be having a ceremony. It would
have happened anyway." JC paused, "Although Peter did show us how to
connect and really feel the love we had for each other. But the feelings
were already there. He just showed us how to share them."
	"I see. Now as far as the party on the night in question, you all
knew that Reverend Welks and his group would be there?"
	"Oh, yes, John informed us of the fact."
	"Did Peter know?"
	"Sure, he was there when we were told."
	"Did Peter seem concerned about Reverend Welks being there?"
	"Not anymore than we were. But we had dealt with people of Reverend
Welks's beliefs before. They are free to believe what they want as much as
we are."
	"Peter was not angry or upset about the protesters?"
	"No, he knew they had a right to make their feelings known."
	"Do you think that Peter would have attacked Reverend Welks?"
	"No way. And especially in front of a group of people. Peter
doesn't do well in crowds."
	"No further questions." Will went back to his seat.
	JC readied himself for Welks's turn.
	Welks stood up. "Mr. Chaisezz."
	"It's Cha-zay or JC."
	Welks put on a fake smile. "Ah, yes, Mr. Chasez, the defendant
resides in the same house with you and Lance does he not?"
	"Yes."
	"Did you give any thought of how this might be taken by other
people? I mean three gay men in one house."
	JC was indignant. "We share a house not each other."
	"Mr. Welks," the judge interrupted. "I trust this line of
questioning isn't going to get any closer to my ruling?"
	"No, your honor. Mr. Chasez, how has the defendant been as a
houseguest?"
	"Just fine. Peter is very considerate and understanding. We've had
no problems with him."
	"No problems?" Welks walked back to his table.
	"No not one."
	Welks picked up a piece of paper. "But how about that night that
led to a criminal charge? There was drugs and sex involved."
	"That was not of Peter's doing. People we never invited drugged
Peter and tried to have sex him."
	"In all of the time that you and Lance lived together had anything
like this ever happened under you roof before?"
	"No never."
	"And do you think it likely that it ever would happen?"
	"I don't think so. We're not into drugs and that kind of partying."
	"But this did happen under your roof."
	"They were going after Peter."
	"So this only happened because of Peter's presence in your house."
	"Well, yes but. . ." JC tried to explain.
	Welks quickly turned away. "No further questions."


	There was a break for lunch. As they regrouped Justin came over to
Peter.
	"Will's going to call me to the stand."
	"Justin are you sure? When I think of what Welks could do. . ."
	Justin smiled. "I am the only one they have who saw part of what
happened. I have to do this. And Will assures me that if it goes astray he
will object. "
	Peter looked up at Justin. "I trust Will and I trust you. Just be
careful. I'd hate to have you dragged out like this. Oh, what about
Britney?"
	"We were never lovers but she can't testify to my sex life
either. Will and Ben have their arguments under control. If Britney is
called Will will make sure that our friendship is the only thing she will
be able to talk about. Okay?"
	Peter smiled. "Okay. But I will still be worried."
	Justin flashed his Timberlake smile. "I'm going to make it all up
to you." Justin paused. "After."
	Peter sighed. "I can't wait."
	Ben opened the door. "Time to be getting back."
	They all returned to the courtroom.


	Will stood up. "I call Justin Timberlake to the stand."
	Peter's heart still sped up. Their relationship should be safe but
there still was doubt. But Peter couldn't help feel touched that Justin was
brave enough to testified.
	Justin was sworn in and as he sat down he glanced around the court
at Reverend Welks and the people sitting behind him, the handful of
reporters, their parents, their lawyers, he lingered on Britney then back
to Welks and then finally on Peter. Will's voice cut through his train of
thought.
	"Justin, what can you tell us about Peter?"
	Justin didn't hesitate. "I love him."
	Peter waited for the usual Timberlake smile. It didn't happen. He
just looked very calmly at Peter.
	Will turned, "Yes, we know you are great friends."
	"No," Justin said, "I mean I really love him."
	There was a murmur in the courtroom.
	Justin didn't care. He hoped his voice wouldn't crack.  "I love
Peter more than anyone I could ever think possible."
	Peter couldn't believe what he was hearing. Justin was coming
out. He was confessing his love publicly.
	Justin could first see the confusion in Peter's face but then as
what was happening set in he saw Peter blush.
	Will looked questioning at Justin. He said softly. "You don't have
to do this."
	The judge leaned forward. "Will the witness please clarify his
statement?"
	Justin looked up at the judge. "Peter and I are lovers."
	The murmuring rose into a rumble of shocked whispering. Reporters
reached for their pens.
	Justin almost laughed at the dumbstruck look on the Reverend
Welks's face. Justin thought, 'I beat you to it, you bastard!'
	The gavel rapped several times. "Will the court please be silent?"
He turned to Will, "Surely the witness is aware of my ruling that private
sex lives are not to be admissible evidence?"
	"Please, you honor," Justin explained. "I'm not talking sex I am
talking love, the emotion." His eyes found Peter's again. "As strong and
clear as I have ever felt or wish to feel." Justin looked back at the
judge. "That is why the consul asked for the ruling. He was afraid our
relationship would come out." Justin almost smiled as he saw Chris clamp
his mouth shut to keep from blurting out a joke.
	"But it would have sooner or later." Justin caught Reverend Welks's
gaze. He nodded slightly to Britney. "One way or the other. I decided I
wanted it to come from me not wrenched from some other witness. I owe it to
my fans, I owe it to Peter and I owe it to myself." Justin turned back to
Peter. "I always told Peter that I wasn't ashamed of him and our love and
that is true. I am more ashamed of me. I was so afraid what my public would
think of Justin Timberlake in love with a guy. But after the shock is over
and they really get to know Peter, I'd hope they would not only learn to
like Peter but see how lucky I am to have such a person in love with me."
	Justin looked at Will.
	"You're gay?"
	"No, Bisexual, well considering, I'd be considered gay."
	Will gestured for Justin to continue.
	"First I like to say don't blame Peter for anything. This was just
another weekend fling.  I walked into this eyes wide open and having
thought of all the outcomes.  Peter being so kind and caring to me wasn't
one of them. We were even both afraid the other would say that word
"love". But it did happen. It surprised us both." Justin sat up, "Peter has
never asked anything of me and I have never lavished anything on him. He
wouldn't want that. Just being near me is enough for him even if it is
standing on the sidelines." Once more their eyes met, "He is so important
in my life. I love him so mu. . ."Justin's voice caught. He
paused. "Sorry." He finally waved his hand to tell Will to go on.
	"On the night in question where were you when the assault happened"
	"On the sidewalk in front of the hotel. I saw Peter crossing the
street."
	"What did you see happen?"
	"When Peter got across the street he must have asked the people
blocking Welks to move. They made way for him. Peter went up to
Welks. Reverend Welks had his back to Peter. Peter said something and Welks
turned to face him. Peter then said something else I didn't hear but the
crowd suddenly moved. Peter was pushed into Reverend Welks then he was
pulled away from him. Then the crowd closed around them blocking my view. I
saw one of the protesters signs fall in Peter's direction. I didn't see
anything else until the police whistles made the people pull back. Then I
saw Reverend Welks being lead off. His face was bleeding." Justin tried to
keep his voice calm. He remembered Joey's explanation of how the wounds
could have been caused. "Then I saw a policeman help Peter off the
ground. They lead them both off for medical attention."
	"So you didn't see the attack on Reverend Welks?"
	"No, there were too many people in the way."
	"Did Peter look like he was ready to attack Reverend Welks?"
	"No, he was walking very calmly."
	"You said that Peter said something and Reverend Welks turned to
face him."
	"Yes."
	"After that Peter said something else and the crowd pushed him into
Reverend Welks."
	"Yes. Then they pulled him away from Reverend Welks.  Then they
surged around them blocking my view."
	"Interesting that at the time of the assault no one saw it almost
as if it was orchestrated and carefully timed out so there would be no
witnesses."
	Welks stood up. "Objection."
	Will waved his hand. "I withdraw the statement, your honor."
	Will looked at Justin and smiled. "No further questions, your
honor." Will went back and sat down.
	They all watched tensely as Reverend Welks stood up and surprised
everybody.
	"No questions, your honor."
	Justin walked away from the witness stand. As he came by the table
Peter wanted to jump up and hug Justin. Instead Peter held his hand over
his heart and bow slightly. Justin just smiled that wonderful Timberlake
smile.  As he walked back to his seat his mother hugged and kissed him. His
father gave Justin a hug then they sat down together with Justin in between
his parents.
	None of this was lost on the people and reporters in courtroom or
on Reverend Welks. He stood up.
	"A very touching and tender confession.  I can see that
Mr. Timberlake is a very good in front of an audience. But why should this
court be interested in this relationship with the defendant? All it proves
that someone loves the defendant. If being in a relationship with someone
like Justin Timberlake makes the defendant less likely to have caused the
assault. . ?"
	Will was on his feet. "I object, your honor. The Reverend Welks
subpoenaed Britney Spears to be here. He knew very well of the relationship
but wanted to expose it himself through her. This play acting on the
prosecutor's part. . ."
	Welks turned to Will. "You have no idea what I was intending. You
honor, the consul is drawing conclusions. . ."
	The gavel resounded through the court room.
	"Gentlemen, please! Try to maintain a professional decorum!"
	"I am sorry, your honor." Will sat down.
	Welks bowed slightly.
	The judge continued. "This is a court of law. This is where the
truth is to be revealed one way or another. But it is this court's mindset
that it is more honorable for that truth to be revealed through honesty
rather than through trickery.  The court is also aware of the resolve and
courage it took for witness to make that statement and of the consequences
of what he has just said might cause him in the not so distant future." The
judge's face softened. "The influence behind it," The judge glanced at
Peter, "is very obvious." The judge turned back to Welks. "In this court's
mind the defense has proven it`s case. If the prosecutor has any last words
now is the time."
	"I do, your honor. Surely this is another example of the
defendant's manipulation of. . ."
	"Mr. Welks, must I remind you that the charge is assault not
manipulation and it has to do with you not NSYNC. The defense has shown the
defendant's character. Your talk of plots is, to my mind, off the point."
	"But, your honor, I am beginning to believe Peter is guilty of
insinuating himself into NSYNC ranks by showing a false character."
	Welks's assistant hurried into the courtroom. He stood by the
prosecutor's table.
	The judge pointed out. "I have heard no witness to even suggest
such a thing."
	"Excuse me, please, your honor." Welks went and whispered to his
assistant. He turned back to the bench. "I have just heard that a new
witness has come forth. I think I can prove my suspicions of Peter now. But
he has just arrived and I need so time to talk with him."
	The judged sigh, "Very well. This court is in recess until tomorrow
morning." The gavel sounded.
	Welks went hurrying out of the courtroom.


	Will sat at his desk while Ben paced. "I would give my eye teeth to
know who this witness is. Oh, to be a fly on Welks`s wall."
	Peter stood up. "Nothing simpler. Do you have a place to lie down?"
	"Oh, no," Chris said. "Leave this to me."
	"But you might not recognize him."
	"So, I'll listen."
	Will pointed to a door. "There's a day bed through there."
	Chris smirked at the lawyer.
	"Don't say it." Will quickly said, "We do work long hours you
know."
	Chris shrugged. "I knew that. Where is Welks's office?"
	"It's on the third floor, second office from the end of the hall on
the right."
	"'On the right' it would be wouldn't it? I'll be back in a mo or
should I say homo."
	"Just go."
	Chris went through the door.
	Joey sighed. "Everybody gets Chris so fast. Why can't I do that?"
Joey found everyone glaring at him. "Okay, you're right. I take it back."


	Chris floated into the room. Welks suddenly seem to scan the
room. Did he sense Chris?
	"You are willing to do this?"
	A man sat with his back to Chris. "Yes. He has been the thorn in my
side long enough." He looked up. "Sorry, bad reference."
	Welks smiled. "No, the analogy is fitting. Christ wore a crown of
thorns as humiliation. But he overcame such taunts. Peter on the other hand
has risen too high. His thorns will be his eternal torment." Welks turned
back to the man, "You have no qualm about changing you words in court for
the glory of God's truth?"
	"Bring it on. My family will never know. Peter has fallen into a
honey pot while I still struggle to keep my head above water. He will help
his mother and father. But what about me?"
	"Don't worry, you will be well compensated." Welks smiled. "Cain
and Abel, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers so it has always been
through history. The Bible tells all."


	A few minutes later Chris returned. "Well, well, well, it seems
Peter is going to have a family reunion. I heard them talking. Peter,
Welks's star witness is your brother."
	"Oh, shit!" Peter blushed, "Sorry." Peter began pacing. "This is
his chance to get back at me for throwing him out of the house. Well,
perjury is going to be the soup of the day tomorrow. It's going to be my
word against his. I'm doomed."
	Ben smiled and patted Peter's shoulder. "Don't worry. Chris gave me
an idea."
	"Really?" Chris was pleased.
	Joey grumbled, "Now we ARE doomed."
	"But we only have twelve hours."
	Ben looked at Peter. "It will be enough. Welks's star witness is
about to supernova."
	Peter didn't look certain.
	"Hey, trust your lawyers."
	Peter saw Ben's confidence. He nodded.
	Ben picked up his papers. "Now I have to get to work."


	For a change Chris was serious. "You okay, Justin?"
	"Yeah," Justin smiled. "I feel like a huge burden has been lifted
off my shoulders." He nudged Peter, "I should have come out long ago."
	"Bull!" They all said together.
	"You're waiting for the aftershock now."
	"Lance and JC did just fine." Justin added.
	"But they're not Justin Timberlake." Joey said.
	"You mean I am different from all of you?" Justin asked
	They all nodded.
	JC added, "In a small way when it comes to the fans."
	Peter took Justin's hand. "Well, I for one was very proud and
touched. Even the judge agreed. You really pulled the rug out from under
Reverend Welks."
	For the first time Justin looked worried, "And after the trial is
over?"
	Joey patted Justin's shoulder. "We'll all be here for you. This
will blow over."
	They all looked at Chris.
	He clicked his tongue. "Duh, way too obvious. Isn't it time for the
news yet."
	"I don't want to watch," Peter sighed.
	"Why not? We kicked butt today."
	"Come on, Peter," Justin managed a smile, "We'll find out sooner or
later."
	"Okay," Peter turned to the TV. "I hope this TV set comes with an
air bag."
	Joey pointed with his thumb. "There's always Chris."
	"Thanks a lot!"
	"You're welcome a lot."
	"Sh!" Lance hissed. "The news is starting."
	"Have I missed anything?"
	They turned as John entered.
	"It's just started." JC answered.
	"Your own TV on the fritz?" Chris chided.
	"I want to see this with my guys." John put his hand on Justin's
shoulder. "This is too important for me to not be here."
	"Yeah and you could be managing birthday party magicians after
this."
	"Chris, that is not funny," Snapped Lance.
	John gave Chris a playful slap. "Ignore him. I am not at all
afraid. NYSNC fans are not that fickle."
	Chris raised his hand. "Can Joey and I have a press conference
stating that we are still one hundred percent straight? So the girls who
are disappointed in losing Justin can come over to our side. It is a dirty
job but someone will have to do it."
	Peter didn't look up. "Trust me, Chris, once you've set your sights
on Justin Timberlake, Chris Kirkpatrick is not the second option."
	"That's easy for you to say. You got him."
	Peter smiled at Justin. "I know."
	Lance sat forward. "Here it is."


	"Today the trial of the assault of Reverend Welks took an
unforeseen turn. After other NSYNC members testified of the friendship and
trust they had in the defendant, Justin Timberlake surprised the court by
emotionally confessing he is in a gay relationship with defendant. The
confession although unexpected did impress the judge. It was also suggested
that this relationship was to be forcibly brought out by the prosecution
but Justin wanted to it to come from him. How this news will affect his
fans is unknown. We did manage to get a few words from friend and
supposedly romantic partner Britney Spears."
	Britney's face filled the screen. "Yes, those of us who are close
to Justin have known for sometime. I just don't like the circumstances in
which Justin had to tell his public. I mean, I was subpoenaed by the
prosecution and I know it was to get me to tell what I knew about Justin
and Peter."
	"Do you like Peter?"
	"Of course, I do. Well, once I got to know him. And I am very happy
for Justin. When Peter had his accident and was in a coma I found out just
how much Justin cares for Peter. It was a difficult time for Justin and I
was glad to be there for him. And to tell you the truth I wish Peter was BI
like Justin. That way I might get a crack at him. He is quite the catch."
	"So you approve?"
	"Justin is happy. That's all that I care about. I just hope I can
find someone with just half the love those two share."
	"Well, Britney seems to approve. Time will tell what the majority
of fans will think. Back to the studio."
	"Thanks, Bob."
	The TV was turned off.
	Chris sat back, "That wasn't so bad."
	That evening when the six of them watched the ten o'clock news they
were proved wrong.


	"All over the country people are protesting NYSNC. Some are holding
NSYNC bonfires. CD, posters and photos are being burned. This latest news
of another gay member of NSYNC is spreading like a flood."
	An adult face filled the TV screen. "Lance and JC were one thing
but Justin in a gay relationship is another. I can't allow my children to
listen to their music. There are just too many questions to answer and I
don't think these guys are role models anymore. It is a pity. But we all
know who's to blame."
	Peter sighed. "Yeah, me."
	"Oh, good God!"
	Peter was pelted by pillows and anything else the guys could
grab. Even Justin joined in.
	Chris glared at Peter. "Are you going to snap out of it or are we
going to have to drown this mood out of you?" Chris nodded toward the pool.
	Peter looked back almost angry. "I wasn't being negative. I was
just repeating what the sentiment seemed to be. Let them blame me. It will
give Justin a breather until they come around."
	Chris nodded, "Damn right. It went well in court today. Welks has
had to resort to scare tactics."
	Joey snorted. "This is Welks's work or should I say the Religious
Right's. They are staging this I know it. It is Welks's ploy. They're
trying to make everyone believe that real fans are doing this. They're not,
Peter. This is all a con."
	"Have you seen the website?" Peter asked. "There is a lot of blame
on me."
	Justin put his hand on Peter's arm. "They may not be real
fans. Welks does have a long reach."
	"But they are all registered members." Peter said softly.
	"Did you think they had never thought about getting their people to
register as NSYNC fans before this all hit? Welks knows the power of the
media. Throw a rumor out there enough and people will start to believe
it. You'll see," Chris said. "As soon as the trial is over all this
anti-NSYNC protests will stop."
	Joey popped a few peanuts in his mouth. "This too shall pass."
	"Oh, Joey!" they all groaned.
	"What?"
	"I think that was one of my jokes." Chris said.
	Joey shook his head. "Nah, you'd be more like, "This will all blow
over" or "It will all be all right in the end". Your jokes are so gay these
days."
	"Joey?"
	Joey looked at Chris. "Eat your nuts."
	JC switched off the TV. "Don't you two start."
	Lance stretched. "Maybe we should go to bed."
	JC nodded.  "It will be an early morning."
	Justin stood up. "Mom's going to make a special breakfast."
	Chris groaned as he stretched. "I don't know why we couldn't stay
out our own house."
	"For the reporters," Joey said. "They'll see we're still together
even though Justin is gay."
	"Bi." Justin corrected.
	Chris waved. "Good night."
	"I mean, oh, never mind."
	Peter was about to say something then closed his mouth.
	JC sighed. "What is it, Peter?"
	"No, I'm just being negative again."
	"What?"
	"I just hope they don't think that spending the night at Justin's
means an all night group orgy."
	Chris wrinkled his nose. "No way! They should know I have better
taste than that."
	Joey started laughing. "I'd make that better "judgment". That taste
thing can get you in trouble." Joey licked his lips.
	"Thanks, now I'm going to have bad dreams about this."
	JC gave Chris a playful shove. "Come on. We need some sleep."
	They headed to their rooms.
	"Peter?"
	"I'm sorry, Justin. I still have the trial on my mind. And I`m
sorry it forced you out."
	"You didn't do anything and I had to come out eventually." Justin
took Peter in his arms. "If you could stop blaming yourself I could really
use some support here."
	"Oh, of course, Justin. I am proud of you." Peter pulled Justin
close. "I will be here for you. I promise. Chris is right we will make it
passed this." Peter laid his head on Justin. "Hm, this is nice."
	"Shall we go to bed?"
	"Yeah, I like to be in your bed."
	"It could be yours now too you know."
	"Oh, yeah."
	"Still worried?"
	"No, just not yet. Maybe after the wedding."
	"Why not now?"
	"Because of what you are going through. Better to give the fans
time to get used to you then concentrate on us."
	"Don't you want to?"
	"Of course I do, Justin." Peter smiled up at Justin, "To wake up
each day with you here with me. Who wouldn't?"
	"Afraid of being in the spotlight with Justin Timberlake?"
	Peter looked into Justin's face. "You can have the spotlight. I
like being in the sidelines."
	"But you don't have to be now. Everyone will soon know we are a
couple."
	Peter chuckled. "And when they see me standing there off camera
they will still know that. You can be Justin Timberlake but they know we
are together. We don't have to be side by side."
	"Ahem!"
	"All the time." Peter added.
	Justin kissed Peter's forehead. "You are so understanding."
	Peter pinched two finger tips together. "Or that far from just
being a sissy boy who doesn`t fight back."
	"You are no sissy boy."
	"Thank you for that."
	"Hey, Justin Timberlake does not sleep with sissy boys. You broke
that image when you fought back against Bill."
	Peter lay back on Justin. "And look what Reverend Welks made of
that. I was a sex fiend. When I couldn't find Craig I came on to Bill."
	Justin nudged Peter. "That's what Welks thinks he has done. You
just wait. People won't believe Welks like they used to."
	"But he is right. In all of those cases you only had my word for
what happened."
	"Peter."
	Peter looked at Justin.
	"You word has always been good enough for me." Justin kissed
Peter. Then Justin smiled. "How about it? I promise I'll be quiet as a
mouse. No one will know."
	Peter laughed. "The hell they won't.  You've been together for so
long you have no secrets. They can always tell." Peter took Justin back in
his arms and sighed. "After the trial is over. It will be so much better
then. No more threat and we're no longer hiding our love. It will be so
nice."
	"But the reaction to my coming out has just started. It may not all
be good times."
	"But there`s still us. I'll always be here for you, Justin. I
promise."
	Justin let it go. He didn't want to debate it. He just held Peter.
	"Ahem."
	The guys returned to the living room.
	Joey stepped forward. "We never told you officially, Justin. We are
all proud of you. None of us knew you were going to come out. We're here
for you guy."
	One by one they gave Justin a hug.
	JC and Lance afterwards put a hand on Justin's shoulder. "Peter?"
	Peter stepped close added his hand. JC nodded the time.
	Together they said. "Welcome to being out."
	Justin grinned, "Thank you."
	"Just think. No more secrets, Justin."
	"You and Peter can be seen in public."
	"And move in together."
	Peter blushed.
	"Let's let things cool down a bit first."
	They had one more group hug.
	Joey stepped back. "We should get to bed."
	"Don't worry about late night noises, guys," Justin said. "No sex
tonight."
	Chris and Joey looked puzzled.
	Lance grinned. "They're saving themselves for tomorrow when the
Great Reverend Welks gets a royal NSYNC screwing."
	"That's a nice mental picture. " Chris looked up and put his hands
in a praying gesture, "Please, God, no dreams for me tonight."


	 End Part 54. The next part is half way done already. As always any
input is welcomed. Pete1211@aol.com or petergv1211@yahoo.com.