Copyright 2000 By Francis O'Ratigan. All rights reserved. With the exceptions of short excerpts for critical reviews, no part of this work may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without permission in writing from the Author.
This story is complete fiction. This story in no way implies the ACTUAL sexual orientation or beliefs of Actual living people. In other words FICTION!!
Is any one still reading this story? Any comments are welcome. Good or bad. Feel free to e-mail me at frnceso@hotmail.com
Rude Awakening Chapter 17
A cell phone rings and a hand picks it up. "Hello?" asks a young male voice.
"Hi Babe," says a voice on the other end.
"Um hi," mumbles the young male shyly into the phone.
"You're blushing again," says the male voice on the other end.
"Am not!" giggles Justin smiling into the phone as he lies on the couch looking up at the ceiling.
"Yes you are," says Ben laughing. "But I love it when you do that."
"I miss you," whimpers Justin in the phone.
"I can be with you by morning," says Ben hopefully. "I stopped by the house and talked to Chris. He told me that you went to Front Royal to visit Jason. How is he?"
"Jason is good. He's a little tired. But that is not the real reason I came out here," Justin said as he turned over on his stomach. "I got this fan letter from a eight year old boy. He has leukemia and wants to meet him. So that is why I am out here. You want to come out?"
"You know that I will be on the next plane out," giggled Ben. "Do you want me out there with you?"
"You know I do," sighs Justin. After speaking for a few more moments getting the travel arrangements set up Justin looks over his shoulder and spots Johnny standing at the foot of the stairs. He had a stuffed animal under his arm and his pillow under the other one. He had tears streaming down his face. "Uh, Ben Johnny is up and I have to go!" Justin said worried.
"Johnny?" asked Ben confused.
"Yea Johnny is the kid who is sick. Listen I have to find out what is wrong with him. I'll see you tomorrow Love," Justin said blowing kisses in the phone. He pushed the power button and got up and walked to Johnny. Kneeling down he held his arms out to him. Johnny comes shuffling over to him and wrapped his arms around his neck. "What's wrong Buddy?" Justin asked wiping the tears from Johnny's face. Johnny just buried his face in Justin's shoulder. "Come on Johnny you got to talk to me if I am going to help," Justin coaxed. Johnny sniffled and wiped his nose on his sleeve. Justin stood up and carried him to the couch and sat him down and got him a tissue and sat down next to him.
"I'm scared," Johnny whimpered wrapping his arms around his stuffed animal.
"Did you have a bad dream?" asked Justin. Johnny silently nodded his, eyes filling with tears again. "Do you want to talk about it?" Justin asked gently. Johnny shook his head no. "How about I just sit here with you for awhile?" Justin asked patting his lap. Johnny laid his head in Justin's lap. Justin shook his head. It looked like it was going to be a long night. He looked out window and saw that Jason and Kevin were still outside. He looked back down at Johnny and saw that he was asleep. He debated whether to take him back upstairs but decided against it not wanting to wake him up.
Out side on the porch.
Brian was sitting up with Kevin. Jason was lying in Kevin's lap sleeping. He looked so peaceful lying there.
"So is everything set for tomorrow?" asked Kevin.
"Yea, they are going to hold the press conference out here at South Fork," Brian said as he reached over and scratched behind Scrappy's ears. Scrappy let out puppy grunts of contentment as Brian hit the right spot.
"Are the rest of the guys ok with Jason and I being Johnny's foster parents?" asked Kevin. Nick and the other two guys had gone out of their way to avoid Kevin. This concerned Kevin. They had worked long and hard getting their friendship back on track. He didn't want anything to jeopardize that.
"They are having some concerns over this," Brian admitted. He was squirming in his seat. He was clearly uncomfortable talking about this. "They are afraid that we are going to loose you for good."
"Come on Brian," Kevin sighed. "I am almost thirty. In less than two years I will be." He had forced himself to realize that his career as a teen pop star was coming to a close. That was one of the reasons's he had dived into music writing. He was enjoying it too. "I can't keep expecting to sing for that young of an audience for too much longer."
"Our audience is getting older Kev," Brian argued. Kevin shook his head no.
"Come on Kevin, we don't want to loose you. We need you." Brian pleaded with his eye filling with tears.
"You will never loose me. As long as there is a Backstreet Boys I will be there. But I can't expect the fans to take me seriously if I am going to continue as an artist. Come on Brian let's face it. No teen-age girl is going to want to listen to a thirty year man tell them how to love," Kevin argued back. Jason moaned and sat back up rubbing his eyes.
"What is going on?" Jason asked looking at Brian than at Kevin. "Kevin, babe?" he pleaded.
"We were just talking about my future as a Backstreet Boy," Kevin said rubbing Jason's back. "I want to bow out of the performing part of it and just write and maybe do a little managing for them," he said. "Who knows maybe some day I would like to go solo." Jason could tell that Kevin had been doing a lot of thinking about this.
"And what are we supposed to do when you stop singing completely," Brian hurled at him. Kevin could see that Brian was getting angry.
"You hold auditions and find a replacement," Kevin said bluntly. "Bands have been doing that for years. It is called transition. It will work if it is done right!" Brian stood up and walked down the stairs and onto the driveway and started walking down it.
"Go with him Kevin," Jason quietly urged him. "He needs you." He reached over and kissed Kevin lightly on the lips. Kevin nodded and stood up and went after his distraught Cousin. Jason got up and headed into the house. He noticed that Justin was still up. He walked into the living room and was mildly amused to see Johnny laying in Justin's lap sleeping. He raised an eyebrow and walked over to the mini bar and poured him self some water and sat down next to Justin startling him.
"Oh hi Jason," mumbled Justin as he gently rubbed Johnny's shoulder.
"He wouldn't stay in his room?" asked Jason.
"He woke up after having a bad dream. He came down stairs looking for Kevin," explained Justin. Jason smiled down at Johnny. He held his Teddy Bear in one arm and had his other arm wrapped around Justin's waist.
"He really likes you," Jason commented. Justin smiled at Johnny as he repositioned himself not wanting to wake the boy.
"He calls me Uncle Justin," he giggled and blushing at the same time. Truth be known Justin was honored that a child would put so much trust in him after only knowing him for such a short period of time.
"I think that you will make a good Uncle. The position is open you know," Jason replied smiling and yawning at the same time.
"It is past eleven. You should be in bed," Justin gently scolded Jason.
"I know, Kevin is outside trying to smooth things over with Brian," Jason said sitting beside Justin. "Kevin wants to retire from the group as a singer and Brian and the rest of the guys are not liking the idea at all. But Kevin is married now and he wants to start a family. Should they really stand in the way of his happiness?"
"How do you feel about him wanting a family?" asked Justin. "You know it hasn't been to long ago that you lost yours. Are you ready to start a new one?"
"No not at first," admitted Jason. Unknown to both of them Johnny was awake and listening to them. "But when I met Johnny here I couldn't help but fall in love with the little guy."
"You know that you are only foster parents," Justin stated. "What happens when Johnny wants more? Like real parents?"
"Than we will cross that bridge when we get there. If Kevin wants to adopt him than that is what we will do. I tell you Justin, I am thankful for the sound of a child's laughter in this house again. I have really missed that.
I've also missed being a daddy too." Jason eyes watered up as he thought of days past when he was a father to Timmy. Justin saw this and leaned over and kissed Jason on the cheek.
"You still miss him don't you?" he asked taking Jason's hand. Jason nodded silently looking down at Johnny. A smile cracked his face as he saw that Johnny was awake.
"It looks like your nephew is awake Uncle," he joked. Johnny sat up rubbing his eyes.
"Hey Buddy," Justin said smiling. "Are you ready to go back to bed?" Johnny nodded and Justin stood up and took his hand and led him upstairs. "You coming Jas?"
"I'll be up in a little while. I want to wait for Kevin and Brian," Jason said in a worried tone.
"You know that they will work things out right?" Justin said in a reassuring tone.
"Yea I know. I just want to go to bed with my husband is all," Jason said laying down on the couch. He watched as the two headed up stairs and smiled with amusement as Scrappy followed them too. It seems that Scrappy had adopted Johnny. Justin had turned off the lights when he headed out. Jason pulled the afghan off the back of the couch and wrapped himself in it and waited for Kevin to return.
Under the Oak Tree.
"Come on Brian," soothed Kevin as he rubbed his cousin's shoulder. "Me not singing in the group is not the end of the world." Brian sighed and stood up and knelt by Boomer's grave marker. He stroked the marble carving of Boomer.
"I know that Kevin. It's just that I was hoping that I would have a few more years with you is all. We all are starting to get to old for this. The only one who isn't is Nick." He looked up at the clear early spring night. The stars shown brightly and the crescent moon hung in the sky. It was a nice night out. He longed for Nick at his side but Nick had went into town to sample the nightlife, such as it was. "Do you remember when we first all got together?" he laughed softly. "God, I was so scared."
"Yea and when you are nervous your accent really shows," Kevin teased. "Hi! How y'all doin?" he mocked using his best Brian voice.
"God don't remind me," Brian laughed shaking his head. "Nick looked at me like I was going to bite him or something." Kevin laughed at the memory. "It was really amazing how quick we warmed up to each other then. God, did I have a crush on him," he sighed as he relived the memory of all most six years ago.
"You still do!" snickered Kevin as he turned and headed back towards the house. He saw the living room light go off. Either Jason had headed upstairs or if he knew him he was dosing on the couch waiting for him to return.
"Yea well you had a crush on AJ," laughed Brian in retaliation. Kevin looked over his shoulder at his cousin. Brian's face was lit in a mischievous grin.
"Guilty as charged. God was he ever a good lay," he sighed looking up at the stars. "He used to make my toes curl. I mean the things he could do with his tongue and God the size of his---" He was interrupted with gagging noises from Brian. Brian's symbol of to much info. Kevin laughed and punched Brian in the shoulder.
"And Jason?" asked Brian still wearing that same irritating grin.
"He makes my entire soul quiver. Sorry AJ but you just don't hold a candle to him," he laughed as he stepped onto the porch. "Well Bri I am going to bed with my Husband so I'll see you in the morning."
"Sleep well Kevin," said Brian giving his cousin a quick hug. Kevin crept into the house and peeked into the living room True to form there was Jason curled up on the couch waiting for him. Kevin leaned down and captured Jason's lips in a gentle kiss. Jason moaned and slid his tongue into Kevin's mouth.
"Come on Babe," cooed Kevin as he slid his arm under Jason's shoulders and knees and picked him up. "Let's get you to bed. We have a big day ahead of us tomorrow." He carried Jason up the stairs and passed Johnny's room. He peeked in and couldn't help but smile. Justin was sleeping on the top bunk and Johnny was sleeping on the bottom. Those two were having their own little slumber party. He heard a grunting noise and spotted Scrappy laying at the foot of Johnny's bed. Kevin just shook his head and resumed his walk to the master suite. By this time Jason had woken up and shuffled off into the bathroom to brush he teeth. Kevin slid out of his clothes and walked across the room and flung open the curtains. Jason loved sleeping in the moon and starlight. He heard a whistle behind him. He turned and grinned at Jason. He than turned slowly around to allow Jason a full of view of his nakedness. He knew he had a nice body. Jason loved it and Kevin let him admire him for a few moments. Jason smiled lovingly at his husband's form and slid under the covers and patted the mattress beside him and Kevin slid under the covers too. He spooned his lover pressing his crotch up against Jason's. Jason let out a moan and wrapped his arms around Kevin's waist.
"God surely did spend a little more time on you Babe," he whispered as he lifted up the covers and peeked at Kevin's erection. "Yummy!" he said licking his lips. "You know that I skipped desert tonight?" He asked looking at Kevin hopefully.
"Jason, you need to sleep it is late," Kevin said huskily. He knew that if he didn't stop Jason it would be a long night for the both of them.
"I want to feel you inside of me so bad," he whimpered. Kevin sighed and turned Jason around and slid his cock between Jason's ass cheeks. Gently pushing he slid his cock up Jason's ass. Jason let out a soft moan. Kevin bent down lightly biting and kissing Jason's shoulder. He started moving in and out of Jason slowly. Jason turned his head around and pressed his trembling lips to Kevin. Kevin lightly bit down on Jason's bottom lip. Jason in turn bit down on Kevin's lip too. Kevin's thrust became more intense. Jason could feel Kevin's cock swelling inside of him. He relished the feel of Kevin's balls gently slapping against him.
"Oh Jason," moaned Kevin. "I'm so close babe," he rasped out.
"Give it to me Kevin," whimpered Jason. Kevin plunged in one last time and spewed his seed into Jason's bowels. Jason felt the hot surge of Kevin's liquid splash up against his prostrate gland sending him over the edge. He too came filling the condom with his seed. After their orgasms subsided Jason removed the condom and threw it in the trash. He turned to Kevin and wrapped his arms around Kevin and looked into his lust glazed eyes. "Thank you Kevin," he whispered as he buried his head in Kevin's shoulder. In no time at all the two lovers were fast asleep.
The buzzer to the front gate woke Jason from his slumber. He groaned as he raised up to look at the clock. It read 6:00. "Who in the world is coming here at 6:00 in the morning," he grumbled as he climbed out of the bed and shuffled over to the door and headed down stairs. Once there he activated the video screen. He saw a taxi from the airport sitting at the entrance to the gate.
"Yea what do you want?" he asked. He saw Ben's face swim into view. Jason rolled his eyes. It was starting to look like a hotel around here. He pushed the intercom button to allow Ben to speak.
"Yo Jas!" exclaimed Ben. "I'm here to see Justin."
"Come on up to the house and I'll meet you at the front," Jason instructed Ben. He heard a noise from the top of the stairs and saw his baby standing there. He looked so cute with his hair all messed up. "Your hair is a mess!" he giggled. Kevin just glared at him and shuffled down stairs. Jason pulled him in a hug and kissed his bare shoulder. "Thanks again for last night," he whispered.
"You're welcome Babe," Kevin said smiling down at Jason. "Who is coming up to the house?"
"Ben is coming to see Justin," Jason said. He noticed the dark shadow cross over Kevin's face. "Come on Babe don't be that way," Jason urged him softly. "Justin deserves to be happy." Kevin nodded as he made his way into the living room. Sitting down he switched on the TV and turned it to his morning news show. Jason knew that it was impossible to have a descent conversation with him until after the news so he headed out side to wait for Ben. He didn't have long to wait cause the taxi pulled up to the front porch. After paying the driver Ben walked up onto the porch. "Justin is still asleep. He and Johnny had a slumber party last night so he is up in Johnny's room," Jason told Ben. Ben raised an amused eyebrow.
"This I gotta see," he snickered. The two headed upstairs pausing at Johnny's room. There was Justin in the top bunk and Johnny on the bottom bunk. Ben stifled a laugh so as not wake them. "That is too cute," he giggled.
"Come on I'll show you to Justin's room so you can get some shut eye," Jason said leading Ben to the guestroom. After getting Ben settled he headed back to his room. He was still tired and wanted some more sleep. He sighed happily as he pulled the blankets over him and closed his eyes. He grabbed Kevin's pillow and held it close to him inhaling the scent of his lover. In no time at all he was asleep.
Johnny opened his eyes and sprang out of bed. It was time to go exploring. He tugged on Justin's blanket to wake him up. "Uncle Justin," he said excitedly. Justin groaned and sat up and looked around. He looked confused at first. Than he remembered their little slumber party.
"Morning Johnny," he said smiling down at eight-year-old. Johnny climbed up the ladder and sat next to Justin.
"You wanna do something?" he asked.
Justin grabbed him in a headlock and wrestled around for a few moments. This sent Johnny into a giggle fit. Than they looked at each other and their eyes lit up.
"CARTOONS!" they both said grinning ear to ear. They raced down stairs and into the living room. Kevin looked up at the commotion.
"Good morning you two," he said smiling. He looked at Johnny and saw that he was eyeing the TV. Sighing he handed the Remote over to him. Johnny giggled and started flipping through the channels. Kevin wrapped his arms around Johnny and Johnny snuggled up to him as he found his favorite cartoon. Soon the two of them were laughing at the show. Justin chose this time to sneak back upstairs to see if Ben had arrived yet. Sneaking into the room he spotted Ben laying in the bed sound asleep. Justin quickly took off his clothes and climbed under the sheets with Ben. He was a little nervous cause Ben was nude and this was the first time that they had shared a bed together. Sighing he wrapped his arms around him and pulled him close. Ben turned over and smiled at Justin.
"Is the slumber party over?" he asked with laughter in his eyes and voice. Justin blushed and looked down. "You two are so cute together," Ben said teasing his lover.
"Yea he likes me a lot. Jason was telling me that he has a crush on me," Justin said leaning in for a kiss.
"Does Johnny know that you know?" Ben asked running his fingers through Justin's curly hair. Justin closed his eyes to the touch.
"Are you kidding?" Justin said laughing softly. "He would be so embarrassed if he knew that I knew. Besides it will pass soon enough." Ben hand had traveled down to Justin's chest and he was playing with Justin's nipples. He noticed that Justin had an erection too.
"I could take care of that for you," Ben whispered as his hand traveled to his crotch lightly brushing it with his hand. Justin let out a moan. Justin inturn took hold of Ben's cock too. "Hey no fair," Ben giggled. "You still have clothes on."
"Well why don't you do something to change that?" Justin asked seductively as he bent down and lightly kissed the head of Ben's cock. Ben let out moan. Justin continued to cover Ben's cock with light kisses and licks with his tongue.
"Please Justin don't tease me like that," he rasped out. Justin took pity on him and engulfed the entire shaft. Justin was happy again. He loved to pleasure the man he loved. And by the response that he was getting from Ben he was definitely giving him pleasure. By now Ben was moaning and thrashing around holding onto Justin's head. Justin concentrated on breathing and taking as much of Ben in his mouth as he could. He could tell that Ben was getting close. He wanted to taste what Ben had to offer him. So he urged him on by gently massaging Ben's balls.
"Oh fuck Justin!" shouted Ben. The soft touch on his balls with the combination of Justin's mouth on his organ sent him over the edge. Spurt after spurt of his cum shot forth from the head of his cock and down Justin's throat. Justin eagerly swallowed as quickly as possible. But there was just too much of it. It ran down the side of his mouth and down his neck. Finally the flow stopped and Ben withdrew his cock out of Justin's mouth. He looked down at Justin's young face covered in his cum. "God Justin you look so sexy right now," he whispered at him. He reached down and ran his finger along Justin's face and captured some of his cum and Justin snatched it stuck it in his mouth sucking the cum off of it. Ben than let out a growl and attacked Justin's neck licking and sucking his seed off of Justin's throat. He felt himself growing hard again and so did Justin.
"Please?" whimpered Justin as he reached out and took hold of Ben's cock and guided to his ass.
"Are you sure Babe?" Ben asked with his voice trembling with excitement.
"Yes I am sure. I want you inside me right now," he urged staring deep into Ben's eyes. Ben gently positioned Justin's legs up on his shoulders and put the head of his cock to the opening of Justin's ass. He gently pushed in until the head popped clear of the ring. Justin let out a small cry and a couple of tears rolled down his face. Ben stopped and leaned forward and kissed Justin on the lips and licked his tears off. He waited a few minutes before pressing forward. Justin looked up at him and smiled. "Ok Ben, I'm ready." Ben slid in the rest of the way. Justin cried out again only this time it was from pleasure not pain. Ben pulled all the way out so that only the head was in and than slammed all the way back in. Justin cried out again in pleasure. Ben got himself a good rhythm going. He bent forward and lightly bit down Justin's nipple causing Justin to whimper in a mixture of pain and pleasure. Ben drank in the sound and closed his eyes as he settled into a fast and hard rhythm. His rock hard abs racked across Justin's cock. Justin reached down and started to jerk himself off in time with Ben's thrusts. Ben was getting closer and so was Justin. Justin came first shooting his load all over his chest. The contractions caused by his orgasm sent Ben over the edge. He plunged in one last time emptying his cock into Justin. The orgasm was so intense that he almost blacked out. Finally the orgasm subsided and he collapsed onto Justin's chest their sweat and Justin's cum sealing the two lovers together. Justin looked up at Ben with tears in his eyes. Ben looked concerned and wiped the tears away. "What's wrong babe?" he asked leaning in for a quick kiss.
"I love you so much," he whimpered as he hugged Ben close. "Please don't leave me ever."
"Is that what you are afraid of?" asked a worried Ben. Justin looked away nodding. "Hey, I wouldn't do that to you," Ben said. "Please look at me Justin," he pleaded. "What makes you think I would ever leave you?"
"Whenever I fall in love with someone they always leave me," Justin said wiping a tear from his eyes. It caused Ben immense pain to see Justin's beautiful face in such pain. He took Justin's face and turned it towards his with the utmost gentle care, as if he was afraid it would break. He pressed his lips to Justin's kissing him with as much passion as he could muster. Justin let out a small sob as he opened his mouth and heart to this man that had sworn his love to him. They broke apart after a few moments of kissing.
"Understand this Love," Ben said wiping a damp lock of hair out of his angel's face. "I love you Justin, and I have no intention of ever leaving your side." Justin smiled and reached down to find Ben's cock and gave it a gently squeeze. Ben rolled his eyes and smiled. "Man you are to much Babe," he giggled. He could tell that Justin was aroused. He smiled and kissed Justin on the nose. "But I think we had enough for this morning," he lightly scolded him. Justin stuck out his bottom lip in a pout. "Ok Mr. Horny," Ben said looking down at Justin's erect cock. "But let's finish this in the shower." Justin got this huge grin on his face as he squirmed out from under Ben and ran to the bathroom. Ben grinned as he climbed out of bed and followed his lover into the bathroom. He smiled as he found Justin was already in the shower. Ben slid open the door and was immediately attacked by Justin. But Ben wanted the upper hand. He gently but firmly pushed Justin up against the wall and began his assault on Justin's firm chest and abs. Justin let out a groan as his hands found Ben's head and gently pushed him towards his crotch. Ben happily complied with the young singer's desires. He came face to face with Justin's cock. It was gorgeous. Ben licked his lips in anticipation of wrapping his lips around it. He leaned forward and took the head of Justin's cock in his mouth lightly tonguing the head paying particular attention to the slit on the tip. Justin's knees threatened to buckle as the sensation. Ben grinned up at the tortured young man. He slowly engulfed the entire thing. Justin being much younger than he was didn't last very long. He let out a huge groan as his cock erupted with streams of cum. Ben eagerly swallowed the gift that Justin offered. After Justin was done he gently removed Ben's reluctant mouth off of his sensitive organ. Ben kissed his way back up to those lips that he craved so much. Once there Justin thrust his tongue into Ben's mouth grabbing up the remains of his seed.
"Wow!!" breathed Justin breaking away from Ben. "That was incredible."
"Wait until tonight babe," smiled Ben as he reached for the sponge and body soap.
Kevin looked down at Johnny. He was so engrossed in the cartoon that he didn't even see his foster father looking at him. Kevin smiled at his foster son. He was such a great kid. 'I hope that we can find a donor for him,' he thought to himself. He was overcome with sadness that he quietly separated himself from Johnny and made his way outside on the back deck. Only there did he break down. Tears came flowing out of his eyes. Sobs racked his body as the thought of loosing Johnny came rushing at him. He felt a hand on his shoulder and he looked over his shoulder and saw Jason standing there. He quickly fell into the loving arms of his lover.
"Shhhhh," soothed Jason. "Whatever it is we will get through it together."
"God Jas!" Kevin sobbed. "What have I done?" He continued to sob into Jason's shoulder.
"You opened your heart to a little boy that needed you," Jason said in a soothing voice. "And for that I love you more than I ever thought possible."
"But I don't want to loose him Jas," Kevin whimpered as he continued to cry in Jason's shoulder. "I don't want to loose him."
"Kevin?" asked Jason. "Kevin, look at me please." Kevin looked at Jason. Jason let out a small sob when he saw the pain that his husband was in. He laid his hand on the side of Kevin's face. "Come and sit with me?" He took Kevin's hand and led him down the path that he hadn't traveled in over 6 months. They came to a gazebo and they stepped up in it and sat in the swinging bench. Jason laid Kevin's head on his shoulder. "I am not going to make promises that I have no right to," Jason said slowly. Kevin nodded for Jason to continue. Jason took his hands in his and looked into Kevin's eyes. "God put Johnny in our lives for a reason. What that reason is we don't know nor do we question it. We trust him that he knows what he is doing. If he chooses to allow Johnny to live than so be it. And if he calls him home--," Kevin let out sob and looked down. "If he calls him home," Jason continued firmly. "Than we must accept it and we will move on with our lives together as life partners." Tears were flowing down Kevin's face. "But in the mean time we shouldn't squander the time God gave us with Johnny. We should enjoy that time and give Johnny the childhood that he never had." Kevin smiled through his tears and wrapped his arms around Jason. The two lovers sat there rocking softly watching the sunrise over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Kevin noticed that Jason was softly laughing to himself.
"Want to let me in on the joke?" he asked raising an amused eyebrow.
"I was just thinking about last night," Jason said laughing fully now. Kevin stared at him confused. "But it's still light out!" Jason said using a child like voice. "The king of all bedtime excuses and he pulls it on you!" By now Jason was laughing his head off. Kevin started laughing too.
"You don't know how I almost caved," laughed Kevin. "But I didn't dare. He would know than that I am a real push over!"
"Oh really?" asked a shock Jason. "HMMM, I wonder if that excuse will work with me?" He stood up and pulled Kevin with him. "Come on Babe let's go visit our annual visitors."
"Visitors?" asked Kevin confused.
"You'll see Babe," giggled Jason. He loved keeping his lover in suspense. They walked down to the riverbank, "Now be real quiet so as not to scare them." Kevin still looked confused until he caught sight of what Jason was talking about. There on the Bank was a family of geese. It was spring and every spring the same family came to this spot to nest. Jason and Kevin knelt in the grass quietly watching the family.
"Wow!" breathed Kevin. "They are so pretty!"
"Yea we should leave before they pick up our scent," Jason advised taking Kevin's hand and pulling him back towards the house.
Chapter 18
Kevin and Jason stepped into the house to onslaught of sounds. Johnny was laughing his head off. Scrappy was barking and Nick was yelling. Jason looked at Kevin who shrugged his shoulders. They walked into the living room. There they discovered the reason for the noise. Johnny had convinced Nick to engage him a game of rouge Squandrand. Nick was loosing badly. Over in the other corner were Justin and Ben. They were cuddled up on the couch necking. Every once in a while Johnny would glance over at them. Kevin could tell that Johnny was not happy about it. Kevin decided that he needed to have a talk with Johnny.
"Uhh Johnny?" he asked loudly to be heard over the noise.
"Yea Dad?" asked Johnny. Kevin's heart jumped for joy at the sound of the word.
"Um can I talk to you?" Kevin asked.
"Sure," Johnny said getting up and tugging on Scrappy's collar. Scrappy politely followed. They walked out into the kitchen. Kevin motioned him to sit in a chair. Jason sat in one too. Kevin insisted that Jason be part of this.
"Uhh Johnny, you know that Justin has a boyfriend right?" Kevin asked. Johnny nodded, "How do you feel about that?"
Johnny shrugged his shoulders, "I dunno," he said softly looking down playing with his hands. Kevin put his arm around Johnny's shoulder.
"Son?" he asked. Johnny looked up at him with a thousands questions in his eyes. Kevin wished with all of his heart that he would be able to answer those questions for him. "You know that Justin loves you right?" Johnny shrugged his shoulders again. "But he also loves Ben too." Johnny got up and ran out of the kitchen and through the living room past Justin and up the stairs. They all listened to him slam his bedroom door. Kevin laid his head in his arms that were resting on the table. "Well DAD!" he said sarcastically out loud. "You handled that real well didn't you?"
"Give him time Kevin," soothed Jason as he rubbed his lover's shoulders.
"I had better go and talk to him," Kevin sighed.
"Why don't you let me talk to him?" said a voice in the doorway. The looked up to see Justin standing there. He had a very serious look on his face. Kevin nodded and Justin turned around to head upstairs.
Justin walked by Ben who stuck his hand out and stopped Justin. "You going to be all right?" he asked Justin.
"Yea," Justin said with a small smile. "I'm just going to talk to Johnny about us." Ben cringed at that. He didn't envy Justin in his task.
Justin approached the bedroom door. He paused to listen for a few moments before knocking. It was silent on the other side. He knocked softly. "Johnny?" he asked. "Can I come in?"
"NO!" shouted Johnny. Justin cringed at the shouted response.
"Please Johnny, I really need to talk to you," pleaded Justin as he silently prayed. The door swung open and Justin cautiously stepped in. Johnny was sitting back on his bed with his back turned to Justin. "Hey Buddy, what's wrong?" he asked sitting beside Johnny putting his arm around his shoulders.
"Nothin!" shrugged Johnny.
"Why did you get up and run away from your Dad like that?" asked Justin. No answer. This was going to be harder than he thought. "Is it because of Ben and me?" Johnny shrugged again. (What is it with kids these days? They all answer with shrugs.) "Do you like me?" Justin asked bluntly. Johnny nodded. "Like I like Ben?" asked Justin. Again Johnny nodded. Justin could see Johnny's shoulders shake. "Ohh Johnny," cooed Justin as he pulled the boy into his arms. Johnny cried into Justin's shoulder for a few moments. "Johnny?" he asked. Johnny looked up at him with tears running down his face. "You know that you are very special to me right?" Johnny nodded. "But we can't be like Ben and me, ok?" he asked him seriously. Johnny sat thinking for a few moments and than looked up at him with those eyes again. Justin felt his heart melt.
"Can you still be my Kinda Sorta Uncle?" he asked with all of his heart. Tears came to Justin's eyes.
"Do you still want me to be your Uncle?" Justin asked. Johnny nodded wrapping his arms around Justin. "Cool!" Justin sighed. That disaster was stopped. 'Man this Uncle stuff takes hard work,' he sighed to himself. He noticed that Johnny had fallen to sleep in his arms. So he laid him on the bed and covered him and crept out of the room. He walked back down stairs where he met Nick and Brian walking up stairs.
"How did your talk go Justin?" asked Nick with concern. Nick was worried about Justin and Johnny too. He didn't want to see either of them hurt.
"It went real well," smiled Justin. "He still wants me to be his, as he puts it, 'Kinda Sorta Uncle,' laughed Justin.
"Good for you Curly. And good for Johnny, he has had such a hard life. And right now he needs to be a kid," Brian said wrapping is arm around Justin as they headed back downstairs.
Two hours later the press stage was set up in the back yard with the pool as a back drop. Kevin insisted on having all of the pool toys available. It was hot out today and maybe he would let Johnny take a dip. He could tell by the look on Johnny's face that he was dying to jump in that pool. He also moved the basketball hoop to the back patio too. Some of the kids were taking advantage of that and were engaged in a game. Brian and Nick couldn't resist and join the group in the game. The Backstreet Boys had decided to put on a small concert. Johnny was so excited. All of his friends from the pediatric ward and favorite nurses and doctors were there too. He also insisted that Fr. Smith the Hospital Chaplain come to see his knew home. Fr. Smith wasn't to happy about Jason and Kevin being lovers considering the stance the Catholic Church took on same sex marriage. But he chooses to be desecrate on his comments. Johnny had insisted on taking them on a tour of his new home and of course he had to drag both Scrappy and Justin along with him. There was a carnival mood surrounding the entire compound. Jason was happy to see the mood change at South Fork. In the months past it had become the scene of too many tragedies. Maybe today would be a turning point in their lives. The Bloodmobile was parked by the garage waiting to start the drive for the Matching Bone Marrow Donor that would hopefully save Johnny's life. The Press were congregated around the Mobile listening to one of the Doctors explain the procedure. Kevin and Jason had also decided to invite the press into their home. This was the first time that the world would get an up and close look into the lives of the newly weds. Kevin was decked out in his black suit with Purple silk shirt and black tie. Jason was dressed comfortably in a light pair of cotton pants and polo shirt and sandals. He wasn't feeling very well but he insisted on being at Kevin's side when he made the announcement about his new charity.
Kevin was standing at the edge of the pool looking into the inviting water. He felt a pair of arms surround him and pull him back. "Hey Babe," whispered a voice. Kevin turned around looking into the loving eyes of his husband. "You excited about this?" Jason asked as he rested his head on Kevin's shoulder. One of the photographers came up and snapped a picture. Jason smiled politely at him and leaned in for a quick kiss. The photographer smiled and took another picture and thanked him with a look. Jason took Kevin's hand and snuck around the pool to the gazebo. This was to become one of their favorites hiding places.
"I can ask them to leave you alone," Kevin said looking for signs of discomfort in his lover's eyes.
"No Kevin, this is your day to shine and I want it to be special for you," Jason said laying his head on Kevin's shoulder.
"Are you sure? Cause if your not I can stop this--," Kevin started was interrupted by a look from Jason. "Ok so you are happy with this," Kevin laughed leaning in for a quick kiss. They saw a shadow cross over them and looked up to see Justin standing there.
"Uh guys it's time to start," he said grinning because he had caught them in a private moment. Jason stood up and took Kevin's arm for support and they began their trek back up to the press stage. He could hear the musicians warming up. The press had gathered in front of the press stage. The guests of Kevin and Jason and Johnny's were all seated behind Kevin and Jason. Kevin stepped up to the Microphone and cleared his throat.
"Um I would like to make a statement first before we get started," he said. The press pressed forward with their cameras. "First I would like to thank you for coming here today. This is a real special day for us. It marks a beginning for my family. A few days ago God dropped an angel into our lives. Johnny came walking up to us and introduced himself to us. Little did he know the affect he had on us. I was devastated to hear that this little angel's life was threatened. Threatened with a disease. Called Leukemia. The only thing that can save his life is bone marrow transplant. Since the fateful day Jason and I have become his Foster parents. We have both fallen in love with that little boy over there. And it is our intention to make sure he gets the love and attention that he deserves." Kevin paused and looked behind him and motioned Johnny to step forward. Johnny did and paused and shied away from the flurry of activity of the press. Justin stepped forward and whispered something in his ear and Johnny let out a giggle and walked up to Kevin. He took his foster father's hand and smiled at the press. This got an immediate response. The crowd erupted with applause and cheers. Johnny was hit! Johnny looked up at Kevin with a scared look on his face. Kevin leaned down and whispered in his ear. Johnny let out a giggle and hugged Kevin and went stood by a Board covered in a red silk drape.
"At precisely 9:00 am this morning my lawyers and management team established the K&J Richardson Foundation for Children Suffering from Leukemia," Kevin said smiling down at Johnny. Johnny was grinning from ear to ear with pride. Kevin nodded at Johnny and Johnny stepped forward and tugged at silk drape that was covering a board. The crowd, including the press erupted into applause. The Board had the emblem of the new Foundation. It had a Rose (Red) a symbol of life in the center with K&J Richardson at the top and Foundation for Children Suffering from Leukemia at he bottom. "And now my husband would like to say a few words before we start taking questions," announced Kevin. Jason walked up the Microphone and looked out over the crowd. A hush came over the crowd as Jason for the first time in public removed his ball cap. The world saw for the first time just how sick Jason was. Johnny also removed his ball cap too. Today was the day for stark and ruthless honesty. Jason looked at Kevin and saw tears streaming down his face. He did not bother to hide them from the prying eyes of the press.
"My Brothers and Sisters of Mankind," he started looking out over the crowd.
"There is a terrible disease raging through our land today. That disease comes in many forms. It attacks the lungs, brain, liver, the breasts, and Lymphnodes and the bones and just about every other system in our frail and weak bodies. That disease is called Cancer and we must put a halt to this disease!" Kevin was shocked at the fire in Jason's voice. He was seeing the politician side of Jason. The crowd erupted in applause and cheers of agreement. "Johnathan may be the inspiration for K&J Richardson Foundation, but you can be sure that this foundation will be around until we find a cure for this horrible disease. Kevin and I both have deep pockets and what good is money if it is wasted on trivial material pursuits? As of today I am liquidating and turning over 50 percent of my annual earnings and holdings to the foundation in an attempt to battle this horrible disease. I look forward to the day when these foundations are no longer needed. But right now in the present we need them. Let us band together as a community to make sure that this disease is stopped in its tracks. Thank you and God bless you." Jason turned and took Kevin's arm and allowed him to guide him back to his seat. The applause was thunderous. After it calmed down enough for Kevin to speak he stepped back up to the Microphone.
"And now we will be happy to take any questions that you may have," Kevin stated. He spotted one reporter with his hand in the air. "You sir, may have the first question."
"Mr. Richardson, did you have any difficulties in obtaining custody of Johnathan considering your sexual orientation?" the reporter asked. Jason cringed at the question expecting the worse. Instead Kevin just put on his charming smile.
"When it comes to loving a child that needs love, and when it comes to wanting to be a father, I guess orientation just didn't come into play. At least the Social Services Department didn't seem to care whether or not sexual orientation should come into play," Kevin answered smoothly. "Next question please?"
"This question is for Johnny," stated a female reporter. Johnny stepped up to the Mike. "Johnny, how do you feel about all this attention that you are getting today?" Johnny thought about it for a few moments before answering the question.
"I am really glad to be part of this. "But like my Foster Dad says," he said pointing to Jason. "This disease is the reason that all this is going on. I just want to find a donor so I can live and be happy."
"If Kevin and Jason wants to adopt you would you be willing to have them as parents?" asked another reporter.
"Right now I haven't thought about adoption yet. Right now all I am worried about is living," Johnny answered. Kevin looked down at his Foster Son and a surge of pride raged through him. Johnny was handling the press like a pro. "So when this is over I hope to see all of you become Bone Marrow donors," Johnny finished. A small rippling of laughter rang through the crowd.
"This question is for Jason," spoke up another reporter. "Jason, did you give any thought about bringing a sick child into your home when you are so sick too? And aren't you afraid of loosing the battle that you are waging yourself against the cancer?"
"In answer to your first question, yes at first I was very concerned about bringing a sick child into our home. But that soon passed when my Husband explained what he had planned. I was very supportive of his efforts and I would like to go on record in saying that I do not intend to loose this battle. I will be healthy again," finished Jason. Kevin smiled as he looked over at Jason. Jason wore that same stubborn look in his eyes he did when he was confronted with a major problem.
As the question and answer session came to a close the Concert got under way. They performed three of their songs for the kids. Johnny even got up and did a little dance with his Foster dad Kevin. The Crowd loved it. After the concert it was time to start the Bone Marrow Drive. Kevin went first followed by the rest of the group. Johnny busted up laughing when Kevin winced at the sight of his blood being drawn.
"He is such a baby isn't he?" laughed Brian coming up behind Johnny. Johnny looked up at Brian. He noticed the band-aid on Brian arm. Justin was next. He soared through the test with flying colors. Johnny turned around a saw that all of the reporters and cameramen were lined up as well.
Jason sat at the poolside watching the activity at the blood mobile. He was tired and decided to doze off for a few moments. Kevin walked back to the pool and spotted Jason napping in one of the pool lounge chairs. He hated doing this but Jason had to be at the Doctors at 3:00 for his weekly dose of chemo. He knelt by Jason and kissed him on the lips. Jason's eyes popped open and smiled at Kevin. "Hi Sexy!" he exclaimed. He glanced around to see that the press had packed up and left. He also noticed that the BloodMobile was packing their things as well. "Where is the rest of the guys?" Jason asked standing up and walking towards the house.
"They had to catch a flight," Kevin said as he held the door open for his husband. "You need to get ready for the Doctors. You have a Chemo session today." Jason let out a sigh as he headed up stairs to get showered and changed. "Babe I know you don't want to go but you need to," Kevin said in a soothing voice.
"Yea who knows maybe they'll find the vein the first try," Jason said sarcastically. You see ever since Jason had started chemotherapy it was harder and harder to start an IV on him. That was because of the Chemo. Kevin caught on that Jason was not happy so decided to leave him alone to get ready in peace. He stopped by Johnny's room and poked his head in and spotted Justin and Johnny playing on the computer. He knocked and both of them looked at Kevin.
"Hi Dad!" exclaimed Johnny. Kevin stepped into the room and sat on a chair and scooted over to where Justin and Johnny were sitting.
"What are you two up too?" Kevin asked.
"I'm helping Johnny set up his e-mail so we can keep in touch while I am gone," Justin explained.
"When do you have to leave?" Kevin asked.
"I don't have to leave until tomorrow evening. Than it is up to New York for the Oscars. Are Jason and you coming up for the awards?" Jason asked.
"I doubt that we will be there. Jason has a chemo session this afternoon. And they take so much out of him." Kevin said. He heard the door shut to his bedroom. "Jason is ready to go. Do you mind sitting here with Johnny while take Jason in?" Kevin asked.
"No I don't mind at all," Justin said. "That will give me more time with my new Nephew." Johnny smiled when he heard Justin call him his nephew.
"Ok thanks Justin. We shouldn't be gone to long, three hours tops. Johnny, you do what Justin tells you to," instructed Kevin.
"Ok Dad," chimed Johnny. "Come Uncle Justin let's go swimming!" Johnny shouted dragging Justin with him. Kevin shook his head as he realized that Justin would have his hands full. He turned and took Jason's arm and helped him down the stairs and into the car.
"To the hospital," he requested the driver. A few moments later they were on their way to the hospital. Kevin looked over at his lover. He could tell that he was deep in thought. "A penny for your thoughts?" he asked softly. Jason turned towards him and smiled a little.
"I wonder how many more treatments I'll have," he answered. "I am so sick of being sick and tired and weak all the time. "What I would give to have the energy of a child again," he sighed wistfully.
"I know what you mean. Johnny is sick but look at he energy that kid has. He is running poor Justin ragged," Kevin laughed.
Back at South Fork.
Ben wondered out onto the patio in time to see Johnny dive off the diving board and into the water. Justin was already in the pool floating on his back with his eyes closed. Johnny grinned wickedly as he snuck up on Justin's pool float. He swam under the float and pushed it up with his feet. Justin fell out of the float and came sputtering up looking around for the culprit. Johnny climbed onto the float laughing his head off.
"Why you little Brat!" Justin laughed at Johnny as he dived after Johnny. Johnny tried to out swim Justin but failed. It wasn't long before Justin had Johnny by his feet and was dunking him in the water headfirst. Johnny of course was screaming and laughing his head off. Ben decided to come to poor Johnny's rescue. Or was it Justin that needed rescuing?
"OK you children!" he scolded. Johnny grinned and swam over to him and held up his hand with an innocent smile.
"Help me out please?" he pleaded. Justin was about to warn Ben but decided not to. Ben of course fell for it and grabbed Johnny's hand. And of course Johnny promptly pulled Ben in. Ben let out a yell and came splashing in the pool. Justin started laughing his head off but soon stopped when Ben pulled him under. Soon the two were wrestling in the water. Justin came up first and swam over to the edge. Ben came to the surface looking around for Justin. He spotted Justin siting on the edge. Ben grinned and swam over to him.
"Hi!" exclaimed Justin grinning as he leaned down to kiss Ben. Ben smiled and kissed Justin back. They broke apart when they heard gagging noises from Johnny.
"EWWWWWWW, Yucky!" exclaimed Johnny scrunching up his face. "That is mushy stuff!" Justin and Ben busted up laughing at Johnny's remarks. Than Justin caught Johnny yawning. Justin climbed out of the pool and walked over to Johnny.
"Come on Buddy," he said extending his hand. Johnny took it and Justin led Johnny into the house. "Time for your nap Kiddo," he said picking him up and swinging him up on his shoulders.
"AWWW do I have to?" whined Johnny and yawning at the same time. Justin laughed and nodded yes. "Phooey!" grumbled Johnny. Ben had to stifle a laugh.
After Justin got Johnny settled in bed he went back down stairs to see Ben. He found Ben sitting in the living room. "Hi Babe," said Justin warping his arms around Ben and kissing him on his bare shoulder.
"MMMM I'll give you a million years to stop," Ben mumbled. Justin giggled as he ran his hand down Ben's sculpted chest.
"Uncle Justiiiiin?" yelled out Johnny. Ben started laughing and Justin glared at him.
"Yes Johnny," he sighed.
"I want a drink of water," he demanded. Ben lost it rolling on his side laughing his head off. Justin growled and ran up stairs. After getting Johnny a drink and settled in bed again he made his way back down stairs. He got half way down and "Uncle Justiiiiin?" Ben lost it again. Justin rolled his eyes and turned around and trotted back up stairs. Justin was just beginning to understand just how much work this Uncle thing would involve. Ben on the other hand was enjoying every minute of it.
"Yes, Johnny?" asked Justin walking into the room.
"You didn't kiss me good night," he said.
"That is because it is not night!" exclaimed Justin.
"My nurse always kisses me goodnight whenever I go to sleep," Johnny said. Justin smiled at the little guy and wrapped his arms around him and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "I love you Uncle Justin," Johnny whispered in Justin's ear.
"I love you to Johnny," Justin whispered back with tears in his eyes. "Now please go to sleep. You need your rest buddy." Johnny nodded and grabbed his teddy bear and turned over and closed his eyes. Justin sat on his bedside rubbing his back until Johnny went to sleep. Only then did Justin get up and head down stairs. When he got back down he noticed that JC was talking to Ben.
"So Ben do you really love him?" JC asked.
"Yea I really do love him JC," Ben said smiling. Justin smiled as he listened to their conversation. "He is the greatest thing that has happened to me in the longest time."
"I care for him a lot Ben," JC said in a warning tone. Ben put his hand on JC's shoulder.
"I will never do anything to hurt Justin JC, you have my word on that," promised Ben.
Justin picked this time to come back in. He walked around the couch and sat next to Ben. "Did you get Johnny asleep?" asked Ben.
"Yea I finally got him to sleep," giggled Justin. JC looked confused. "First he needed a drink of water, than he wanted a kiss."
"So basically he was being a kid," said JC. "You really care for him don't you?" Justin nodded. "What are you going to do if he doesn't make it?" JC asked bluntly.
"Don't say that!" Justin shouted angrily at JC. JC jumped back shocked at Justin's response. "He is going to make it! He has to!" Justin was getting upset now tears running down his face. Ben stood up and went to him and tried to pull him in a hug. But Justin pushed him away, "leave me alone!" he shouted at Ben running out of the house. Ben heard the car start up and the peeling of tires.
"Thanks JC!" Ben hurled at him. "You don't have to worry about me hurting him. You did real fine job of that yourself!" Ben stormed out of the room to follow Justin.
At the Hospital.
"Get out!!" shouted Jason. "And don't come back until you can find a vein!"
The IV tech ran from the room glaring back at Jason. He had been trying to find a vein for the last thirty minutes. Six tries later and Jason had had enough. Kevin snuck into the room. "Get out of here you fucking vampire!" Jason hurled at what he thought was the tech.
"I suck a lot of things babe but blood is not my style," Kevin giggled as he sat next to the bed. Jason glared at him. "Not having a easy time of it?" Kevin asked leaning in and kissing his forehead. Jason leaned up against Kevin's chest.
"I hate this shit!" he hurled at Kevin. "One stupid vein! That is all they need is one fucking vein. Why can't they find one?" he sobbed. Kevin wrapped his arm around him and pulled him close. The door opened and the Doctor stepped in carrying the tray.
"How is he doing?" asked the doctor.
"He is tired and angry," mumbled Kevin. Jason looked up and wiped his tears away.
"I hope you have better luck than that idiot did," Jason hurled at him. The Doctor cringed at Jason's harsh words. "I'm sorry Doc, I'm just tired of being used as pin cushion is all. I'll apologies to him later I promise.
"Well let's see if I can have better luck with this," the Doctor said as he wrapped the tourniquet around Jason's arm. Five minutes later he was successful in finding a vein and they had the IV started. Fifteen minutes later the Chemo arrived from the pharmacy and was started. Kevin sat next to Jason holding as Jason tried to get some sleep. He knew if he didn't sleep now he would get very little for soon the Nausea and Vomiting would start. Kevin hated that part of it. It was mostly drive heaves, which made it more painful to watch. He heard Jason breathing slow down and become regular. Kevin slipped out of the room to get something to eat. As he headed down the hallway he ran into a distraught Justin. Justin didn't even notice Kevin. Kevin had to reach out and grab his arm to stop him.
"Hey Curly what's wrong?" Kevin asked when he saw the tear streaks on Justin's face. Justin looked down at his feet. "Come on, follow me to the cafeteria where we can talk in private. Justin nodded and fell in behind Kevin. After getting to the cafeteria and getting dinner they sat down. Justin picked at his salad. "Ok Curly, spill it. What is bothering you?" asked Kevin.
"JC said something that made me real upset is all," Justin mumbled.
"What did he say?" asked Kevin getting angry with JC. Kevin and Justin may be through as far as lovers go but it still pained Kevin to see him in pain.
"He just reminded me that Johnny might die is all," Justin sniffled. Kevin reached over and took Justin's hand in his.
"You really care about him don't you?" Kevin asked.
"How can I not care about him? He is such a great kid. It's just not fair.
Why does God do things like this?" Justin sobbed into his arms. He heard his phone ring. He reached into his pocket and answered it. "Yea this is Justin what do you want," he said sassily into the phone.
"Justin, it's me JC," JC said in a worried tone. "I need to speak to Kevin and I can't reach him."
"He is right here JC," Justin said handing over the phone to Kevin.
"Yea JC what is it?" he asked.
"It's Johnny he is burning up," JC said. Kevin could tell that JC was on the verge of panicking. "What do I do?"
"First things first. Calm down!" Kevin said. "Call 911 and have an ambulance pick him up. We will be waiting." He hung up the phone and grabbed Justin's hand and pulled him out of the cafeteria.
"What's wrong?" asked a frantic Justin.
"It's Johnny he has fever. JC is bringing him in," said Kevin as he raced towards the Emergency room.
"Kevin wait!" shouted Justin. "It is going to take a while before Johnny gets here. You need to be with Jason," Justin said sternly.
"Yea you're right Justin. Jason needs to know what is going on," Kevin agreed. They went to Jason's room first. Once there they went to his bedside. He was still asleep. The Chemo was done and the IV tech was removing his IV. Kevin went to his side and kissed him on the forehead. Jason moaned and opened his eyes. Almost immediately he put his hand over his mouth. Kevin rushed and got a basin and held it for Jason. Kevin rubbed Jason's back as Jason threw up in the basin. It was basically dry heaves. Justin went to Jason's side too and rubbed his back too. This was the first time that Justin had seen Jason like this. After Jason calmed down he plopped back against the pillow groaning.
"You better?" asked Kevin wiping his lovers forehead. Jason nodded and signaled for water to rinse his mouth out. "Baby, I have to go to the ER," Kevin said softly.
"Why," croaked out Jason.
"They are bringing Johnny in," Kevin said. Jason looked up at Kevin in fear. "It's just a fever is all. He is going to be fine." Jason did not look convinced. "Justin will stay with Jason until they release him and make sure he gets home and in bed?" Kevin asked. Justin nodded.
"But I want to stay with you," Jason whimpered out grabbing a hold of Kevin's hand. Kevin brought his hand to his lips and kissed it.
"I know you do but you need your rest Baby," Kevin whispered in his ear.
"I belong at your side, Johnny needs both of us!" Jason argued stubbornly. Kevin was silent for a few moments. "Please?" pleaded Jason. Kevin glared at him for a few seconds.
"How can I say no to a face like that," Kevin said.
"YEESSS!" exclaimed Jason grinning up at Justin.
"But you watch him. If he gets tired he goes home!" Kevin instructed Justin as he headed out of the room to go to the ER.
Kevin entered the ER and went up to the desk. "I'm Johnny's Guardian, has he been brought in yet?" he asked the nurse.
"Yes Sir," said the Nurse. "If you wait for a minute I will bring you back to him." Kevin waited patiently for the nurse to get off the phone with a Doctor. "Ok sir if you will follow me?" Kevin followed her into the treatment room he spotted Johnny. He was on a stretcher with an IV in his arm and an Oxygen mask on his face. He was awake and he looked scared. Kevin rushed to his side and took hold of his hand. Kevin frowned at the temperature of it. "It is the high temperature he has," explained the nurse.
"How high is it?" he asked.
"105 degrees," she replied but held up her hand when she saw the frantic look on Kevin's face. "Don't worry to much. We have him on IV fluids and IB profin. We will get the fever down." Suddenly Johnny started shaking violently.
"What's wrong now!" shouted Kevin.
"He is seizing," she shouted. "Please Mr. Richardson you will have to step outside for a while," she said pushing Kevin out in the hall. Kevin didn't argue with her. For he knew that Johnny was in good hands. Once outside he spotted a distraught JC.
"Kevin," JC shouted. "What is wrong? They won't tell me anything."
Kevin took JC by the arm and led him out in the waiting area. Looking around he found a quiet spot to sit. "All I know is that he has a high fever and he is having some sort of seizure. Probably because of the high fever." Kevin said wiping some tears away. At that moment a doctor stepped into the waiting area. Kevin stood up and went up to him. "How is he Doctor?"
"Well we have stopped the seizure. The seizure was caused because of his fever spiked. We call that kind of seizure a Febrile Seizure. His fever is down and he is more coherent. You can see him if you like," the Doctor said taking Kevin by the arm and leading him into the treatment room. Kevin saw that his foster son was sitting up in bed. He still had the mask on and IV.
"Hey buddy," Kevin said smiling. "You really scared us."
"Hi Dad," Johnny said through his tears. Kevin reached down and pulled him into a hug. "Can I take this mask off?" Johnny asks trying to pull it off. Kevin reached up with a gentle hand and stopped him.
"You need that to help you breathe," Kevin said soothingly. Johnny nodded bravely. Kevin sat down beside Johnny's bed and took his hand in his. He marveled at how small Johnny" hand was. "I know that you are really scared now, but I want you to know that there is allot of people out there that are praying for you right now. So all you need to do is rest and get better OK?" Kevin asked choking back his tears. He caught some movement out of the corner of his eye. He looked up and saw Justin and Jason. Jason was in a wheel chair. Justin wheeled Jason up to the bed where Kevin was.
"Uncle Justin," Johnny said weakly. Justin smiled and took his hand. "I wana go home," Johnny whimpered.
"You gotta stay here for a while kay?" pleaded Justin. "You have to get better so we can play some more." Justin gave him his best smile hoping that it would calm him down. Johnny nodded and looked up at Kevin. Kevin reached down and hugged his head to his body. They heard the door open and they turned around to see the Doctor standing there.
"What is the news Doc?" asked Kevin.
"Well I have good news on both counts. First thing is that he has a mild case of pneumonia. We should have it under control in a day or so. Second bit of good news is," he paused looking around the room. "Is there a Justin Timberlake in the room?"
"That's me Doc," Justin said raising his hand.
"Well Mr. Timberlake, I wanted to be the first to tell you that you may be the key to saving Johnny's life," he said smiling and shaking Justin's hand.
"I don't understand," mumbled Justin.
"You are a match," the Doctor said. "Your Bone Marrow is a match!" There was silence in the room as every one let the news set in. Justin went to Johnny and hugged him crying into the young boy's shoulders. Johnny looked up at his Dad for help. Kevin wiped his eyes too and took Jason's hand and held it while Jason wept too.
"Am I going to live?" asked Johnny looking up at Kevin with those child's eyes with a million questions.
"Yea buddy I think you are," sobbed Kevin. "Thank God, I think you are!" ************************************************************************
Well that is it for this installment. I hope that you like it. E-mail me and let me know what you think.
Special note: I am going to be trying something new. I am going to write the next two chapters's twice. Each two chapters will take the story on a different path. You the readers will decide which path the story will follow.
frnceso@hotmail.com