Date: Fri, 23 Jun 2000 20:00:41 EDT
From: BrwyMilo@aol.com
Subject: "Nick and Justin" part 41
Well, here's section 41. It's a bit late, but it's also a bit longer, so
I hope it was worth it. Lot's of action in this one, so I won't spend too
much time here. You guys should know the basics by now--it's all
fiction--blah blah blah--isn't meant to imply anything about the sexuality or
beliefs of anyone involved--
If you have any question, comments, criticisms--anything--send it to Mike
at BrwyMilo@aol.com. Thanks for reading! Give my other series "Still
Breathing" a look if you get a chance. It'll be updated soon.
*****
Justin woke up the next morning to the sound of birds singing. He opened
his eyes slowly, not remembering where he was. 'This isn't my bed,' he
thought to himself. He sat up and opened his eyes wide, taking in the walls
of the room. He saw the picnic basket which lay open on the floor near them.
The flowers scattered around the floor. Nick stirred lightly next to him.
Justin grinned and placed his hand on Nick's shoulder.
It was then that he saw the ring. Instantly, he felt his breath catch in
his throat. He held it up so that he could see it better. It looked
different in the daylight. Shinier. A smile spread widely across his face.
He shut his eyes tight to keep tears from coming back. He lay down on top of
Nick and wrapped his arms as tightly around him as he could.
"Wha-" Nick said quickly as he started to wake up. His eyes shot open as
he felt Justin clinging to him. "Are you alright," he asked quickly,
instantly awake. "Baby, are you ok?"
"I'm wonderful," Justin replied happily, tightening his grip.
"Then why are you trying to suffocate me," Nick asked as he tried to
breath. Justin quickly loosened his grip, smiling at his boyfri...fiance.
"I love you," Justin blurted out quickly.
"I love you too," Nick said, a bit confused by Justin. "Are you sure
you're ok?"
"I said I'm great," Justin laughed. "I think I'm just letting everything
finally sink in. I mean...we're engaged..."
"You're not changing your mind are you," Nick asked, quickly sitting up.
"Of course not," Justin replied quickly. "It's just so much." He
noticed Nick's worried face and smiled warmly. "But no, I am not changing my
mind."
"You had me worried there for a second," Nick replied. He put his arms
lightly around Justin shoulders and pulled him close to him so that they were
facing each other, Nick's legs around Justin's waist. "It is a lot to think
about though."
"Like what are we gonna tell the other guys," Justin said, lowering his
eyes and putting his forehead to Nick's.
"Yea, that's something to think about," Nick said. "Well, I think Kevin
has an idea. He was with me when I bought the ring, but I didn't tell him it
was an engagement ring. I just said it was a present."
"And I've spoken to JC about us maybe getting engaged," Justin confessed.
"And what did he say," Nick asked.
"He was alright with it. I mean, when we were talking about it it was
all hypothetical, but he seemed to be pretty cool about it."
"I mean, it's gonna take a little getting used to for the guys, but it's
not like we're doing this tomorrow," Nick said. "When we're ready, and when
we can get a little time off from touring and just...be us!"
"Nick...what do you think our parents are going to say," Justin asked,
drawing back quickly. "I mean, our parents didn't react very well to us
being gay in general. What are they going to do with this?"
"Well, they're going to say we're too young to be thinking about it, they
don't think it's a good idea, and it would be smart if we held off on any
decisions about something like this," Nick said. Justin stared at him, his
jaw slightly open. "To which I'll say, we're totally and completely in love.
I can't imagine having to live a day where you're not somehow a part of my
life. I wouldn't even want to try to go on without you." He was looking
Justin right in the eyes now. "So, if our parents have a problem with us
being engaged, then they're just gonna have to get over it."
"You're so sure," Justin said, smiling slightly. "I think I'll be able
to get through telling them." He looked at Nick and paused. "But we don't
have to tell them right now do we?"
"No," Nick laughed. "But I was serious about wanting to move together.
I mean, if you're ready..."
"I think that would be really great," Justin smiled. "How do you think
our parents will react to that."
"Well, one way to find out," Nick said. "My parents are in Orlando for a
visit. Why don't we go out to dinner with them tonight. You can invite your
mom. And this way, maybe they won't cause as big a scene if we're out in
public."
"Do you remember the last time we went out with your parents," Justin
asked, looking at Nick carefully.
"Yea, but I think they've matured a little since then," he replied with a
grin. He glanced down at his watch as his eyes shot wide open. "Baby, it's
almost noon. Kevin is gonna beat the crap out of us."
"What time are we meeting them," Justin asked, hopping up and starting to
pile everything into the picnic basket.
"Well, we have to be dressed and pretty and outside your house in about
half an hour."
"Yea, Kevin's gonna kill us."
"And he hasn't even heard our news yet," Nick replied with a smile as he
dropped the rope from the treehouse.
*****
"I told them 12:30, right," Kevin asked.
"I think so," JC replied, him and Brian sitting on the hood of his car.
"They were probably in the shower or something when you rang the bell."
"Both of them," Kevin asked. JC threw him a look which made Kevin blush.
"Oh yea."
"Lemme call Nick's cell," Brian said as he pulled his cell phone out.
"Nick" he said into the phone as it instantly dialed. "I love this thing,"
he said with a grin. He waited a moment more before nodding. "Nick, what
are you doing?"
A window opened on the second story of the house as Nick stuck his head
out. "We'll be down in a minute. Justin's just finishing getting dressed."
"What took you guys so long," Brian laughed into his phone. JC elbowed
him and pointed up to the window. "Oh," Brian said as he clicked the 'end'
button on his phone. Nick laughed and stuck his head back inside the house.
"We should have just had them meet us at the mall," Chris said as he
bounced a tennis ball on the sidewalk.
"They never would have made it," Kevin said, rolling his eyes.
A minute later, Nick and Justin came bounding out the front door, Nick
carrying Jonathan in his arms. Justin quickly ran over to Kevin. "We need
to drop Jonathan off at day care."
"We're already late," Kevin said, a bit exasperated.
"Kevin," Brian yelled, jumping up. "Give me a break."
"Come on Kev, it's on the way," Nick replied. Jonathan looked up at
Kevin and smiled.
"Hi," he said with a grin, clutching onto Nick.
"Hey buddy," Kevin said, his harsh demeanor melting quickly. He looked
over at Nick and shrugged. "Well, at least let me carry him." Nick laughed
loudly and handed Jonathan over.
"It's high up here," Jonathan said as he looked down at the ground.
"Ok, I like him," Kevin said turning towards the car. "So we drop Jonny
off at day care-"
"My names Jonathan," Jonathan interrupted.
"Well excuse me," Kevin laughed. "We drop Jonathan here off at day care
and then straight to the mall. The rest of the guys are gonna have a fit."
"We're not that late," Justin said, placing his hand behind his back.
"Show Kevin," Jonathan said quickly, looking over at Justin.
"Show Kevin what," Kevin asked quickly, glancing at Nick and Justin.
"Here why don't you let me carry Jonathan," Nick said, running over to
Kevin and taking Jonathan back into his arms.
"Nick, show me what?"
"Yea Curly," JC said, jumping down off the hood of his car. "What are we
showing Kevin?" He looked at Justin with a look of expectation in his eyes.
"Nothing," Justin said quickly. "Jonathan is just fooling around. Now
come on, we're late enough."
"Alright," Kevin said slowly. "I'll drive you guys in my car I guess,"
he said, noticing that Brian and JC were already ready to drive away.
"Thanks Kev," Nick said as he and Jonathan climbed into the backseat of
Kevin's car. Justin walked over to where Nick was sitting and leaned down.
"Jonathan saw the ring this morning. I didn't think he'd say anything
though."
"It's alright," Nick said, strapping Jonathan into the backseat. He
looked up at Justin and smiled. "We can tell them later."
"Sounds good," Justin said as he shut the back door and climbed into shot
gun. "Jonathan's day care is just 5 minutes from here."
*****
"Where the hell are they," AJ asked, pulling his hat further down his
head.
"Honey relax," Britney said as she took a bite out of her pretzel.
"They're just a little late."
"Yea, but the whole mall is on celebrity alert," AJ said with a groan.
"If I see one mob running at us, I'm not gonna be happy," Howie said,
taking a quick look around. "And you're not exactly trying to disguise
yourself Brit."
"What," Britney asked as she looked down. She was wearing a pair of
denim hip hugger pants and a shirt that was left open at her belly button.
Her hair was pulled back in a pony tail, a pair of sunglasses resting on her
face.
"You look like you just hopped out of one of your posters," Howie said
with a smile.
"I think I look pretty," Britney said, straightening her shirt.
"No one's denying that," AJ said, kissing her cheek lightly. "It's just
I'd just as soon have you look hideous as get mobbed."
"Oh thanks," Britney replied sarcastically. She looked around and
pointed her finger lightly towards a group of boys approaching quickly. "Is
that them?"
"Oh, great disguise," AJ said with a laugh. Nick adjusted the sunglasses
on his face and looked over to AJ with a grin. He pointed out the group to
Kevin who walked over quicker.
"Hey you guys get any shopping done," Kevin asked. "Great disguise Brit."
"Shut up Kev," Brit said quickly. "And what took everyone so long?
Never keep a lady waiting."
"We didn't," Justin said with a laugh as he quickly dodged Britney's
slap.
"Wanna say that again pretty boy," Britney shot back, smiling broadly.
"Hey, that's my pretty boy," Nick said. "Don't hurt him. He's delicate
goods."
"Yea, I'm fragile," Justin replied.
"Wait a second, aren't we missing a few members of N'Sync," Kevin said
looking around.
"We're here, we're here," Joey said, he and Chris running over.
"And Lance went over to the tables with Devon to make sure everything was
set up right."
"Good, so we're all here and ready," Kevin said. He looked over at Joey.
"Did you buy enough?"
"I think so," Joey said with a grin.
"Hey Justin, come here for a second," JC said as he walked away from
Brian.
"OK," Justin looked at Nick and shrugged. "I'll be right back." He put
his hands in his pockets and walked over. "What's up?"
"What's up with you," JC whispered.
"Nothing really. Not really looking forward to this autograph thing."
"Say, why are your hands shoved so tightly into your pockets," JC asked,
looking down casually.
"No reason," Justin said, turning bright red.
"Justin, let me see it," JC grinned.
"See what," Justin replied, getting a bit defensive.
"Take you hand out of your pocket."
Justin shrugged and removed his left hand. "See, nothing here."
"The other one Just," JC replied with a smile.
"Aw JC, come on," Justin replied. JC shook his head and pointed to
Justin's pocket.
"Come on, I'm your best friend."
"It's just that we weren't going to tell anyone yet," Justin said lowly.
"I swear I won't even tell Brian," JC said. "I just wanna see the ring."
Justin looked around and noticed no one looking at them. He pulled his
hand out slowly and showed JC his ring finger. "Wow," JC said quietly.
"It's beautiful"
"Read the inscription," Justin said happily, removing the ring from his
finger.
"N loves J," JC whispered. "AAWW," JC said getting puppy dog eyes.
"I know right," Justin giggled. "Isn't he the best."
"Justin, this is amazing," JC said. "But I think you're right about
waiting before you guys tell everyone. I don't know how everyone would
react."
"I know," Justin said, looking down and putting his hands back in his
pockets.
"Hey, don't get upset," JC said, lifting Justin's head up with his thumb.
"It's gonna work out right," JC said. "OK." He looked Justin steadily in
the eyes. "OK?"
"OK," Justin whispered. He smiled at JC and shrugged. "Lemme get back
to my Romeo." He laughed to JC and strolled back over to where Nick was
standing.
"He alright," Nick asked.
"Yea, he was worried about us this morning," Justin lied. "Wanted to
make sure we were ok."
"Oh, alright," Nick said with a smile.
"Come on, let's get over there and get started," Kevin said.
Justin sighed heavily. "Time to be famous again," he said with a shrug.
Nick squeezed his shoulder lightly and smiled.
"You're always a star in my book," Nick said. Then he let out a loud
laugh. "Oh my god that was so cheesy!"
"A little cheese never hurt anything," Justin said. Nick gave him an odd
look. "OK, it was a little cheesy." He put his arm around Nick's shoulder
and smiled wide. "Let's go cheese ball."
*****
"Oh my god," one of the girls screamed as the two groups and Britney
approached the tables that had been set up atop a high platform.
"Oh, this is gonna be fun," Britney whispered through gritted teeth. She
took a seat at the table next to AJ.
"Now behave," AJ whispered. He watched as the first group of people
approached.
"Can you make it out to Melinda," a shy blond girl asked Justin as she
handed him a cd booklet.
"Sure thing," Justin said flashing his smile. He signed quickly, handing
it off to her as she moved down, smiling so wide it looked painful. "She was
pretty excited," Justin whispered to Nick.
"Yea, it's like they've never seen the amazing Justin Timberlake before,"
Nick said, faking sarcasm.
"Will you shut up," Justin laughed, signing another cd book without even
looking up. "It's just that sometimes this is really hard to let sink in."
"Yea, you're right," Nick replied, smiling up at the latest fan to walk
over. "It was really hard to get used to when we started getting popular."
Justin look up at the line of fans and got a shock for a moment. "Nick,
isn't that-"
"Oh my God," he whispered as his eyes settled to wear Justin's were.
"What is she doing here?"
The woman approached the group slowly, looking steadily at her target.
"Hey," Brian said casually, not even looking up. "Who should I make ithis
out to?"
"Leigh Anne would be nice," the woman said. She smiled as Brian dropped
his pen onto the table and stared up at her. "Surprise."
*****
"I don't know if I'll ever be able to get used to this," Devon said,
watching as the huge line of people seemed to envelop the guys and Britney.
"God, what must it be like to have that many fans out there?"
"It's hectic," Fatima said. "But they thrive on it I guess. You've seen
them when they perform. They feed off the energy."
"I guess so," Devon said. He looked at Fatima and smiled. "You've been
getting a lot better," he said, looking at her carefully.
"Doctor said I'm just about at one hundred percent," Fatima replied.
"Hey, can I ask you something," Devon asked, a bit tentatively.
"Of course," Fatima said, sitting down on a small bench.
"Where does this all leave me? I mean I knew when I signed up that this
was only temporary...but I kind of like this." Devon looked at her
carefully, trying to read her reactions. "I really enjoy what I do now. So,
with you better, and don't get me wrong, I am sooooo happy that you're back
to one hundred percent...I'm just a little worried about where I stand."
"Well, everyone knew that you signing on was temporary," Fatima began.
Instantly Devon's head dropped. "But I've been talking to the management
teams. And they like what you've done." She lifted Devon's head up with her
finger. "They want you to stay on. And then after this tour is over, you're
going to be touring regularly with N'Sync, and I'll go back to working solely
with the Backstreet Boys."
"So, I don't have to leave," Devon asked, getting a bit choked up.
"You're not going anywhere," Fatima said with a smile. "I think Lance
will be happy about that too."
"I think so," Devon replied with a smile. "He really is a great guy."
"Hey, so are you," she replied, lightly resting a hand on his shoulder.
"He came with me to my parent's house," Devon said, looking her in the
eyes.
"Wow," she whispered. "How was it?"
"Hard," Devon replied. "Very hard. But we got through it." He looked
at her steadily and shrugged casually. "I miss my mom sometimes."
"It's not always gonna be like that," Fatima said, giving Devon's
shoulder a light squeeze.
"I know," Devon conceded, offering a light smile. "It just sucks while
it is." He paused a moment and gave a weak smile. "It's ok. I'm glad I get
to stay on with you guys."
"Hey, you're like family," Fatima said. "You and Lance are practically
married."
"Not quite," Devon laughed. "Maybe eventually. He's really great."
"I know he is," Fatima said with a smile. "He's a great guy."
"Sometimes I don't know what he sees in me," Devon said. He looked up
and shook his head. "Totally not fishing for compliments. It's just a
concern sometimes. Like I keep thinking he's going to realize he can do so
much better than me."
"I really have this big urge to slap you every once in a while," Fatima
said. "Are you insane? Devon, first of all, do you ever look in the mirror,
or any of those dance magazines you've been in? You're hot. Very. But
that's not the least of it. Devon, you're so sweet. You take care of
everybody. Lance is lucky to have you as much as you're lucky to have him.
You're an amazing dancer, an amazing person and an amazing friend. And so
help me God if I ever hear you get down on yourself again I will slap you so
hard-"
"I get the point," Devon said with a laugh. "Alright, I'm not so bad.
But I'm still the lucky one."
"Whatever you say," Fatima said, kissing Devon lightly on the forehead.
*****
"What are you doing here," Brian asked harshly. "Didn't you say you were
going to stay away?"
"Yea, but it's been a while, I thought you might miss me," she said with
a grin.
"Yea, think again," JC whispered.
"Oh, hi JC." Leigh Anne scowled slightly. "You're doing well?"
"I'll be doing a lot better as soon as you move your ass out of here."
JC waved his hand at a team of security members. "This woman's lost," he
said as they approached. "Maybe you can show her out," JC said lowly.
"With pleasure," one of the men said.
"Ugh, no need," Leigh Anne said with a laugh. "I'll be in touch though."
With that she pushed through the group of teens and towards an exit. She
waved lightly as she went, a smile painted across her face.
"Can we have her shot," JC asked.
"Don't tempt me," Brian replied, already signing the next autograph.
*****
"Oh my God it's Justin," a very excited girl shouted as soon as she
stepped up to where Justin was sitting.
"Um, hi," Justin said with a smile. "How are you?"
"I'm wonderful," she replied happily. She looked at him for a moment.
"Anything I can sign for you...or something," Justin asked with a grin.
"Would you marry me," the girl blurted out, instantly turning bright red.
"Um, I'm sorry. I'm seeing someone right now," Justin said with a laugh.
"We're kind of serious."
"It's Britney isn't it," the girl yelled.
"What's Britney," Britney asked, looking up and two seats over to where
Justin was seated.
"You're dating Justin, aren't you," the girl asked, slightly flustered.
"Hey, stop causing trouble over there Curly," Britney said with a laugh.
"Actually I'm dating this hottie over here," Britney said, elbowing AJ.
"That's right," Justin replied, signing a picture for the girl. "Britney
is quite happily taken at the moment.
"Hey, I'm single," Joey said with a laugh, looking at the girl. "And
what can I sign for you?"
The girl moved on to Joey, as Justin laughed. "If she only knew," Justin
whispered to Nick, who was finishing signing someone's poster.
"She'd never beleive it," Nick said, smiling up at the fan.
"Um, hi," a wayword male said as he stepped in front of Nick. He was
around 16, with short blond hair and blue eyes. He actually looked a little
like Nick did when he was a little younger.
"Hey, looks like you're in the minority here," Nick said, looking out at
all the girls.
"Yea, I know," the boy said, turning several shades of red. Justin
kicked Nick lightly under the table.
"So, what's your name," Nick asked, signing the poster that the boy had
timidly handed to him.
"Daryl," the boy said, surprised that Nick was actually talking to him.
"I have a cousin named Daryl," Nick said, looking up and smiling. The
boy turned even redder, looking down at his feet.
"If you get any redder you're gonna be a tomato," Nick said, causing the
boy to laugh. "Have a good day." He handed the boy the poster who moved on
to Justin.
"Hey," the boy said, looking at Justin.
"Hey yourself," Justin laughed, signing the poster in the same fashion
that Nick had. "We don't get many guys at these things."
"I can imagine," Daryl said, looking down.
"No, it's a nice change," Justin replied. "What's your favorite song?"
"I like 'I Want You Back'," Daryl replied, taking the poster that Justin
handed him.
"Cool," Justin said with a smile.
"Stop hogging the fans down there," Joey said with a laugh.
"Well Joey thinks we're hogging you, so you better visit him now," Justin
laughed. "See ya later."
Daryl walked away slowly, throwing glances back at Nick and Justin.
Justin watched him walk away for a bit, before turning his attention back to
the other fans.
*****
"That could have been me...or you," Justin said as he got dressed in
front of the mirror.
"I guess so," Nick said, adjusting his shirt in the mirror behind Justin.
"He seemed like a good kid."
"Yea, and he seemed kind of lost with all those girls around," Justin
remarked. "It's hard growing up gay. God, I hated it when I was younger."
"I remember thinking that if I tried hard enough, I could make myself
straight," Nick laughed. "You look cute," he added nonchalantly.
"Oh thanks," Justin said with a smile. "Yea, remember me and Britney if
you would. That was my last ditch effort."
Nick laughed lightly and looked at himself in the mirror. "What's the
verdict?"
"You look hot," Justin said, kissing Nick's neck.
"Then I should change," Nick replied, turning around quickly.
"Why," Justin said, grabbing on to Nick's arm.
"Cause we're going out with our parents," Nick said. "You're not
supposed to look hot...you're supposed to look...devout."
"Will you shut up," Justin said. He looked at himself in the mirror
carefully. He was wearing a light linen suit with a black t-shirt
underneath. "Think I should change," Justin asked.
"No, you look amazing," Nick replied with a grin. He pulled Justin into
a hug and began to nuzzle into his neck. "What time are my parents getting
here," he whispered mischievously.
"Justin are you guys just about ready? We have to-" Lynn stopped as
soon as she saw the position they were in. "Um, Nick's parents..."
"Mom, you really have to start knocking," Justin said, obviously
flustered. "We're ready to go."
"OK good," Lynn said, looking away from the two men as they fixed their
clothes. "Nick's parents just called and said they'd meet us at the
restuarant." She looked in Justin's mirror and straightened her dress. "Do
I look alright?"
"You look beautiful," Nick replied with a smile.
"You don't have to get on my good side Nick," Lynn said with a laugh.
"You're already on it."
"Good to know," Nick replied with a smile.
"So, we should get going," Lynn said. "Want me to give you a minute or
something," she asked, eyeing the two carefully.
Justin shrugged and kissed Nick quickly on the lips. "Nope, good to go,"
he said walking quickly past his mother, giggling loudly.
"I cannot believe he did that," Nick said, turning bright red.
"He'll do anything to shock me," Lynn said with a smile. "Let's go
Romeo."
*****
"Hey mom," JC said with a smile, kissing his mother gently on the cheek.
"Hi honey," Karen said, hugging her son tightly. "You're a little late,
but that's ok. Dinner isn't quite ready yet." She looked behind JC and into
Brian. "You must be JC's friend."
"Hi," Brian said with a smile, offering his hand to shake. "I'm Brian."
"Oh come here," Karen said, brushing past JC and hugging Brian tightly.
"If you're touring with my son, the least I can do is give you a hug."
"Oh, thanks," Brian said, laughing slightly. He looked over at JC and
smiled. JC sighed lightly and stepped into the house.
"Where's dad," he asked, walking into the living room.
"He's just finishing up a business call," Karen said, releasing Brian and
ushering him into the house. "You boys sit here, and I'll call you as soon
as dinner is ready."
"Well," Brian said as soon as Karen was out of earshot. "That went
pretty well. At least she didn't hate me from first site."
"Brian," JC said with a laugh. "But yea, that did go well." He looked
over at Brian and sighed. "Thank you for coming with me."
"Of course I was going to come with you," Brian said with a laugh.
"Maybe if your parents see that you're in a wonderful, loving relationship
with a really hot guy, they'll be happy."
JC looked at Brian for a moment before bursting out laughing. "Um, yea,
that's one idea."
"Well, at least your mom seemed nice enough," Brian said.
"Mom's never the problem," JC said, looking down at the coffee table.
"Dad's the one I worry about. You never know what kind of mood you're going
to catch him in."
"Well goddamn it Jim. What the fuck goes on when I'm not there," a voice
from the other room yelled. Brian watched as the color slowly drained from
JC's face.
"Well, that answers that question," JC said slowly.
"Maybe tonight isn't the best night to tell them," Brian said, getting a
little nervous.
"No," JC said quickly. "If I don't tell them tonight, I'll never get up
the nerve to do it again."
"If you're sure," Brian said slowly.
"Of course I'm not sure. I'm scared out my mind," JC whispered. "But I
guess I don't have much of a choice."
"Hello son," Roy Chasez said as he entered the room. JC got up and shook
his father's hand in a business like manner.
"Hi dad," JC said, sitting back down. Roy sat down in the easy chair
next to the couch and looked at Brian.
"Dad, this is Brian Littrell," JC said hurriedly. Brian jumped up and
shook Roy's hand.
"Nice to meet you sir," Brian said nervously.
"So, you're touring with my son," Roy said casually, stretching his legs
onto the coffee table.
"Yes, for the past few months now," Brian replied.
"And how is the tour going, JC," Roy asked.
"Pretty good," JC said, nodding quickly. "Busy, but it's been fun so
far. It's a lot of work."
"Oh come on," Roy laughed. "You sing and dance on stage while some 13
year old girls throw their underwear at you. That doesn't sound too
strenuous to me."
"Dad, you know there's more to it than that," JC said, a bit exassperated.
"Maybe," Roy conceded, nodding lightly. "Karen, is dinner almost ready?"
"Almost," Karen yelled back. "Why don't you boys come in and start on
the salad."
Roy got up quickly and headed towards the dining room, leaving Brian and
JC in the living room. "Um, this is going well so far," Brian said with a
grin.
JC gave him an amused look and shook his head. "Whatever you say," he
said with a slight grin. "But now is when the fun really starts."
*****
"I'm telling you, I don't like this Jane," Robert Carter said as he sat
at the bar to the restaurant. He was wearing a gray suit, complimenting his
wife's black dress. He sipped his cocktail quickly, nervously tapping his
fingers against the bar. "You remember the last time they got us all
together for dinner like this?"
"Yes I do Robert," Jane replied. "and so help me God if you cause a
scene like you did last time I'll kill you."
"I am not going to cause a scene," Robert said. "But what are they
possibly going to spring on us this time? They can't be pregnant thank God,"
Robert said. Jane laughed slightly.
"Now that would make some tabloid story," she said, laughing louder. She
looked over at her husband and saw his unamused look. "Robert, look. No
matter what they tell us, we really can't do much about it. They're old
enough to start thinking for themselves...whether we like it or not. So
you're just going to have to listen to what they have to say and choke it up."
"Maybe I'm over reacting," Robert said as he downed the rest of his
drink. "Maybe they just miss us and want to get together with us for a nice
friendly dinner. They might not have anything important to tell us at all."
"Exactly," Jane replied, resting her hand on her husbands back. "There,
I think I see Lynn."
"Hello Jane," Lynn said, walking quickly over, Nick and Justin following
close behind.
"Hello Lynn," Jane replied, kissing her cheek lightly. Robert echoed his
wife's actions and then moved towards his son.
"Good to see you," he said softly, pulling Nick into a hug. "You too
Justin," he replied. He extended his hand as Justin went for a hug, then
switched to a hug as Justin extended his hand. Finally exhausted, he took
Justin's hand, while patting his back with the other.
"Nice to see you too sir," Justin said.
"Robert," Robert corrected. He turned towards Lynn and smiled. "We have
a table waiting for us in the back. It's a bit more private. We don't want
these two getting mobbed in the middle of dinner."
Robert led the way through the darkened restaurant, finally stopping at a
table set up for five. Nick took a seat next to Justin and his mother, while
Robert sat between Jane and Lynn. The waitress handed them their menus
nonchalantly, ignoring their celebrity status. Robert ordered a bottle of
red wine as the waitress hurried away.
"So, what have you kids been up to," Jane asked. "God knows Nick never
calls home."
"I call you plenty of times," Nick laughed. "We've just been busy with
the tour and all."
"Is that why you wanted to have dinner with us? To just catch up," Lynn
asked. Justin looked at her surprised for a moment. "Well, I mean it's nice
to get together regardless."
"Actually-"
"Yes, that's why we got everyone together. Just to chat and catch up,"
Justin said, interrupting Nick. He rested his hand on Nick's knee. "Is it a
little hot in here?"
"Why don't you take your coat off," Lynn suggested. Justin nodded and
placed his coat on the back of his chair.
"Drink some water," Nick said, a bit concerned.
"No, I'm alright," Justin said with a smile. "Just a little hot."
The waitress appeared once again, carrying a bottle of red wine, and
ready to take their orders. Justin gladly accepted the glass of wine Robert
handed him, downing it a little too quickly.
"Justin, take it slow," Nick whispered while everyone was still being
distracted by the waitress.
"I'm just a little nervous," Justin replied. "And it's so hot in here."
"Do you want to get some air for a minute," Nick asked, pushing his chair
back slightly.
"No, I'll be fine," Justin said with a smile, giving Nick's hand a little
squeeze.
"And for you sir," the waitress said, looking towards Justin.
"Oh...umm...I guess I'll have the chicken marsala," Justin replied, a bit
flustered.
"Same for me," Nick said. "Oh, but not mushrooms." The waitress smiled
lightly as she wrote and took their menus away.
"I never could get him to eat his vegetables," Jane said with a sigh.
"It's a personal choice mom," Nick said. "Some people are
vegetarians...I'm a carnivore."
"Justin you try," Jane said with a laugh.
"Oh, no," Justin said quickly. "Leave me out of this one." He took a
sip of his water and breathed hard. Nick looked at him carefully, rubbing
his leg lightly.
"Justin, you look a little pale," Lynn said, looking at her son.
"Do I," Justin asked, rubbing his face.
"I think we're gonna step outside for some air," Nick said.
"Are you alright," Jane asked, looking at Justin.
"Yea, really, I'm fine," Justin replied, steadying himself on the back of
his chair. "I guess some air would be good though."
He followed Nick out of the restuarant. As soon as they were outside
Nick placed one hand on Justin's shoulder. "You're not ok, are you?"
"I don't know," Justin conceded, leaning against a wall. "I just felt a
bit constricted."
"Maybe this was a bad idea," Nick said. "We shouldn't have done this
yet."
"No, I want to," Justin replied. "I'm just a little nervous."
"Are you sure," Nick asked, looking right into Justin's eyes. "We could
hold off on telling them."
"Til when," Justin laughed. "My mom comes into my room and notices all
my clothes are gone?"
"Ok, so we do have to tell them that," Nick said. "But we'll leave out
the engagement part."
"I guess." Justin looked up suddenly paniced. "God, if I'm this worried
about telling them we're moving in together what the hell am I gonna be like
when we tell them that?"
"Justin, calm down," Nick said, rubbing his shoulder lightly. "Is this
something you want to do? I mean...you do want to marry me, right?"
"Of course I do," Justin said, looking up sharply. "God, that's all I've
ever wanted from day one."
"Ok, then what does it matter what they think right now," Nick asked.
"It's something they're just going to have to get used to."
"I know," Justin said. He looked down at his feet for a moment before
nodding his head quickly. "Alright, let's go," he said confidently.
"Huh?"
"Let's go tell them," Justin said. "You're right. I'm being silly here.
I know how I feel."
"You sure," Nick asked, trying to read Justin's expression.
"Nick, I love you," Justin said. "And I want our families to know how
much. Yea, we're young...but it doesn't make us stupid."
"So, you ready to go back in then," Nick asked, holding out his hand.
"Let's go," Justin said, allowing Nick to pull him to his feet. They
walked together back into the restuarant, Nick pulling out Justin's chair for
him as they reached the table.
"Are you feeling better," Lynn asked, watching her son carefully.
"Yea, much better," Justin replied. He took Nick's wine glass in his
hand and downed it quickly. "But we have some news for you."
*****
"So, how much longer is the tour supposed to last," Karen asked as she
fixed the plates on the table.
"Well, right now, just another two months before a break, but with
extensions, we're really not sure right now," JC said. "Everywhere we go
gets sold out, so they may milk this tour for all it's worth."
"Well, as long as you know where your home is, you'll be ok," Karen said
with a warm smile.
Brian squeezed JC's leg lightly, keeping his eyes on the table in front
of him.
"Brian, how does your family react to you traveling everywhere," Roy
asked in a business like tone.
"My family," Brian repeated, a bit flustered. "Well, when we first
started they all viewed it as a really good learning experience. We
definitely miss each other, but I think we all know that nothing in this
business is permanent, so right now, I'm just trying to take advantage of it."
"That's a very healthy attitude," Karen said with a smile as she took
Brian's plate. "I hope you guys are hungry."
"Starving," JC said with a smile.
"So, how is the apartment JC," Roy asked. "Do you have someone look
after it while you're away?"
"Yea, the landlady checks up on everything," JC said, taking the plate
his mother handed him.
"You know, you really should start to think about buying a house," Roy
said. "Maybe when you get your break in a couple of months you can start
looking."
"Actually, I've already decided to buy one," JC said, glancing over at
Brian quickly.
"Oh really," Roy said with a smile. "Where?"
"In Orlando I suppose," JC said, looking at Brian. "Actually, it's not
only going to be me living there," JC said slowly.
"You're getting a roommate," Roy asked. "JC, I don't think that's a good
idea. You make more than enough money to afford it on your own..."
"It's not a question of affordability," JC said. "I'm in love," he
whispered.
Karen let out a happy gasp, leaning back in her seat. She smiled wide,
looking between JC and her husband quickly. "This is so wonderful," she said
excitedly.
"Who is she," Roy asked heatedly, staring at JC carefully.
"Well, that's kind of what I need to talk to you guys about," JC said,
looking directly at his father. "I've been keeping something from you for a
long time now. I guess you can say I've been leading a double life. And I'd
have been more than willing to keep leading this life, except for something
new that's happened since I've started on this tour. I fell in love. Not
just some passing fling...but really in love. Like you and mom love each
other, dad."
"JC, what exactly are you saying," Roy asked sternly.
"I'm gay," JC whispered, looking down at the table. Karen let out a weak
sound. Instantly JC's head snapped up, looking between his mother, his
father, and Brian.
"You're gay," Karen weakly asked.
"Yes," JC whispered.
Brian looked up at Roy's face. It was stone. JC glanced up as well.
"Dad, please say something."
The fist slamming down on the table was the only reply he got.
*****
"What news is that," Lynn asked, ignoring Justin's sudden drinking.
"OK, Nick and I have been going out for a long time now. Well, not long
compared to you guys, but it's been a while and we're serious about each
other." He paused and looked at his mother. "I love him more than ever.
We've just gotten so close...closer than I thought we would."
"And I really do love him too Mom," Nick added, placing his hand on
Justin's leg. "I know it took everyone a while to get used to first having a
gay son and then having a gay son with a boyfriend, but we hope you're
starting to get more comfortable with the idea of it."
"Well, I think we're actually pretty used to it by now," Lynn said with a
smile.
"Same here," Jane replied. She nudged her husband who nodded slowly.
"But you said you had some news for us," Robert said. "What is it?"
"Justin and I," Nick began, looking at each of the parents slowly.
"We've decided to get a house together."
Lynn's jaw dropped quickly as she picked up her napkin.
"I see," she said slowly, looking down. "So, you're moving out?"
"Yea, I am," Justin said slowly. "Mom, it's not that I don't love living
with you. It's just that...Nick and I are so used to just being together
when we're on tour. We want a place we can call ours when we're not staying
in hotel rooms."
"Well, that is a big decision," Robert said, looking towards the center
of the table.
"I think it's an interesting idea," Jane said slowly. She looked over at
Lynn and back down again.
"Well, I knew you couldn't stay living with me forever," Lynn whispered.
"And maybe this is a little sooner than I wanted you to go, but I know I
can't make you stay when your heart is set on it." She smiled up at him and
nodded. "OK, I guess it's a good idea for you two. As long as you're
serious about each other. I know how you feel, but please keep in mind that
feelings can change and heartache is not something that's easy to deal with.
Something like a house can complicate things."
"Mom, we're very serious about our relationship," Justin said. "We're in
this for the long run."
"But, you can't be sure. There's nothing definite in the world. Believe
me, I know Justin," Lynn said. "I just want to make sure you guys know what
you're getting into."
"We're very sure," Nick said with a smile.
"I'm not so sure," Lynn replied. "Things change."
"Mom, this thing won't change," Justin said, putting his hand on the
table to take his mother's. Lynn smiled lightly and looked down, placing her
hand in Justin's. Something caught her eye.
"That's a pretty ring," she said absently, holding his hand up a bit.
"Oh, yea," Justin said, very flustered as he removed his hand. "I just
got it the other day."
Can I see it," Lynn asked, looking right into Justin's eyes.
"Um, sure," Justin said. He held his hand out again so that his mother
could get a closer look. She looked at it carefully then at Nick.
"It's very pretty," she repeated looking at Nick this time.
Nick smiled lightly and nodded. Jane looked confused at her son for a
moment. "Can I see it too," she asked. Justin flushed a brighter shade of
red and held his hand out to Jane.
"I feel like I'm back in show and tell," Justin laughed, trying to
lighten the mood.
"Oh, that is a pretty ring," Jane said, smiling lightly. "A little
dressy."
"Yea," Justin said casually.
"It's nice," Robert said, looking over his wife's shoulder.
"Oh, here's the waitress," Nick said, looking as the waitress walked over
with a bellboy, both carrying large trays.
"Saved by the food," Justin whispered.
*****
"I did not raise a gay son," Roy said sternly, staring at his son with
pure anger.
"Dad, it has nothing to do with how I was raised. It's just something
that IS. I didn't choose to be this way. I just am."
"I don't buy that crap," Roy said spitefully. "God damn it JC, how can
you be gay? Do you really want to live like that? Do you know what kind of
life you're in for?"
"I'm in for a very wonderful life with a man that I love very dearly," JC
shot back. "Look, Brian is more than a friend dad."
"So, I have him to thank for this then," Roy said spitefully at Brian.
Brian recoiled, sinking far back in his seat. "Dad, leave Brian out of
this. Me being gay has nothing to do with him whatsoever. God, I can't
believe you can be this close minded and ignorant!"
"You watch your tone," Roy yelled.
"Roy, calm down," Karen said, resting her hand on her husbands arm.
"I will not calm down," Roy said, shaking it off. "I did not raise a fag
for a son."
"Roy," Karen yelled.
"That's it," JC said, jumping up. "I'm not going to sit here and listen
to your mindless junk anymore. I came here to tell you an important part of
my life. If you can't deal with it, then that's your problem. But if you
can't, you're also going to have to deal without me in your life." He looked
at Brian and smiled weakly. "I love Brian dad. If you don't like it, you're
just gonna have to get over it." He walked over to his mother and kissed her
on the cheek. "I'm sorry mom," he whispered. She nodded weakly, letting a
few tears fall down her face. "I'll call you." JC walked quickly towards
the door, Brian standing at the table.
"I wish we could have met under better circumstances," Brian muttered
before following JC out.
*****
"Dinner was really good," Nick said with a groan. "I can't believe I ate
that much."
"Don't worry. Devon has our workouts scheduled. It'll be gone in an
hour," Justin laughed.
Lynn had remained quiet throughout much of dinner, watching her son and
Nick carefully. Justin had noticed, throwing occasional looks towards his
mother, but not saying anything.
"Does anyone feel like having some dessert," Robert asked with a smile.
"Dad, how can you even think about dessert," Nick asked, laughing
slightly.
"I'm never eating again," Justin laughed.
"Yes you are," Nick replied.
"So, when are you guys thinking of going house hunting," Jane asked with
a smile.
"Well, maybe this week," Justin replied. "We want to try to be moved in
or at least in the process of moving in by the time the tour is over."
"Well, isn't that lovely," Lynn said with a smile. She looked carefully
at Justin. He saw his mother watching and fidgeted slightly. "Is there
anything else you boys want to tell us," Lynn asked, looking directly at
Justin.
"What are you talking about," Justin asked nervously.
"Anything you want to get off your chest," Lynn reiterated.
"I don't think so," Justin said, turning red.
"I thought the house was enough news for one night," Nick joked.
"Justin," Lynn said with determination.
"Nick," Jane asked, looking confused at her son.
"Justin, I always know when you're hiding something from me. And I think
I have an idea of what it is now," she said, taking Justin's hand quickly and
running her finger over his ring. She felt her son tense up a bit under her
touch.
"What is Lynn talking about Nick," Jane asked. Robert leaned back in his
chair and watched as the women grew in their determination.
"Nick asked me to marry him," Justin whispered.
"What," Jane yelled.
"I asked Justin to marry me," Nick repeated, very quietly. "Just last
night." Nick looked at Justin a moment. "And he said yes."
"You boys can't be engaged," Jane said angrily, but trying desperately to
keep her voice down. "Hell it isn't even legal!"
"It's not recognized," Nick said. "A ceremony is a ceremony. We really
don't care if the government sees us as married as long as we do, and our
friends and family do. It's important to us."
"I just don't understand," Lynn said. "Isn't living with each other
enough?"
"It is for now," Justin said quietly. "I mean, we're not running out
tomorrow and having the ceremony. This is an engagement. We plan on waiting
a bit before we set any dates."
"Justin, you boys just don't know what you're getting into," Lynn
whispered.
"Mom, please," Justin said. "We're in love. God I know what this
probably sounds to you guys, but you have to trust us on this."
"You're not ready to even be thinking about something like this," Jane
jumped in. "I can't believe what I'm hearing."
"Jane calm down," Robert said, putting his hand on her arm.
"Calm down," Jane yelled. "Why aren't you saying anything?"
"Jane, just keep your voice down," Robert said soothingly.
"Mom, please, just think about it," Justin said.
"I can't believe you're doing this," Lynn said. "I just can't believe
it." She stood up slowly. "I think I need some time alone. I'll meet you
boys at home."
"Mom, please don't go," Justin said. But Lynn was already walking away.
"Um, I think I'm gonna go too," Jane said. "I'll meet you back at the
hotel Robert," Jane said.
Nick stood, on the verge of trying to stop his mother, but in the end he
just sat down. "Wow, that went well," he said weakly.
"Could've gone worse," Robert said.
"You," Nick said with a laugh. "I can't beleive you're handling this so
well!"
"Well, I've learned that nothing I can do is going to change how you boys
live or what you do. I'd rather have you in my life in some capacity than
not at all.
"Thanks dad," Nick said. "I guess we should get going," he said slowly,
helping Justin to his feet.
"I'll talk to your mother," Robert said. "She'll come around. She just
isn't ready to let her baby go."
"Well she better come around fast," Nick said slowly. "I don't think
we're ready to let our mother's go." He put an arm on Justin's shoulder and
smiled weakly.
*****
Well, I hope you enjoyed 41. I'm going to work next on "Still Breathing"
for a bit, so it may take a week or so for this one to be updated. Thanks
for reading! Send all comments to BrwyMilo@aol.com. Til next time!