To Have & to Hold Forever

This story is a sequel to "Sickness & Health, Good Times & Bad", along with other stories in the "Together Forever" Series. You don't have to read those stories first, but this story will make more sense if you do.

Brian and Justin are established partners raising five children together.

I don't own the original QAF characters just the situations I create. No copyright infringement intended.

Chapter 21

Granny asked Brian to put her largest suitcase on the bed so she could unpack it. He quickly complied but when he lingered, she turned to him.

"Brian you can go back inside. I just want to put some things away and freshen up. I am fine on my own. If Gus is to be believed you should be inside kissing my grandson. I will come in shortly."

Brian chuckled but complied with her request. When he got inside the house he walked over to Justin and kissed him.

"Your grandmother said to leave her alone and told me I should come back here and kiss her grandson. Because Sonny Boy told her we kiss all the time."

Everyone looked at Gus who just shrugged which caused general laughter. Justin and John moved into the kitchen to start lunch preparation.

When Granny reappeared she carried a shopping bag. First out were Los Angeles T shirts for John, Peter, and Gus. She got thanks yous and hugs from the boys. Next were Los Angeles onesies for Lily and Liam.

"Brian, I know that is not how you want your Princess and Sunbeam to be dressed but you have to humor me. I want a picture with all my new great grandchildren wearing their gifts.

Jen, I saw some of your things out in the pool house. Is that where you normally stay?"

"No Mama. We just didn't want you to have to stay out there all alone. So I thought I would sleep out there with you."

Granny looked horrified.

"Oh NO! That is NOT going to happen. For goodness sakes I am used to my privacy. I have no idea what your sister told you but there was a locked door between my rooms and the rest of the house. Kate was forbidden to ever use her key.

I am an old lady not an invalid. No one needs to look after me. Please gather your things after lunch. I have a cell phone if for some reason I need something I will call Justin or Brian. I usually take care of my own breakfast. I'll let Alice know what I need from the store.

I know there are nights when Justin and Brian have dinner alone. I will make my own dinner, or the boys can bring the babies out to the pool house we can have something delivered."

Jennifer opened her mouth but after looking at her mother's expression she closed it without saying anything.

Granny pulled several envelopes out of the bag.

"Brian, you are going to have to set up a meeting with Ted. I'm sure there will be papers I need to sign."

She handed him the envelopes in her hand.

"I know from Justin that you have set up trust funds for all the children. I have my own contributions for those trust funds. John and Peter will need that money sooner than anyone else so there is one hundred thousand for each of those trust funds.

There are three fifty thousand dollars checks for Gus, Lily and Liam's trust funds. We have more time before they will need the education money. I know that you and Justin have your own charitable fund and there is a check for that as well. There is also a small check for Justin's art charity fund."

Everyone in the room was stunned to silence. Finally, Jennifer spoke. She was concerned that her mother had become unable to take care of her own affairs.

"Mama, that is very generous but really it is too much. Kate would have a stroke if she knew you were giving this much money away. You may still need your cash in the future."

Granny laughed.

"Don't worry my dear I am not losing my mind. These contributions really won't leave me short of funds."

"Mama, I don't know exactly how much money you have but I do know what Dad left you in his will. This is too much money for you to give away"

Her mother smiled at Jennifer.

"Jenny dear. I have always had my own money. I had some when I married your father. He insisted I keep my own money. He helped me with investment advice over the years and I made a couple really good investments on my own. What your father left me, as he well knew, is a fraction of my total holdings. I am of sound mind and I can give my money to whoever I choose."

No one seemed to know what to say so Justin announced lunch was ready. Granny enjoyed making a sensation, so she was quite pleased with herself. Sitting at the table next to Brian, Justin could feel the annoyance rolling off Brian.

He had hoped they would get thru a few days before Brian clashed with his grandmother. That seemed like a vain hope now. Justin saw his mother glance over at Brian a couple times with a worried expression on her face.

John and Peter tried to keep up the conversation at lunch. They were both aware that Uncle Brian was not a happy man. Gus was oblivious to his Daddy's displeasure. He happily sat between Grandmom Jen and Grandpop Tucker. One of the things Gus loved about his fathers' house was that there was often lots of family and friends visiting.

After lunch was over, Brian gave Justin a look and said he was going to the study. Molly and Mark said they would go in the pool with Gus. John and Peter announced they would handle cleanup and Tucker volunteered to keep his eye on Lily and Liam.

Justin suggested to his mother and Granny that they go talk to Brian in the study. When Justin opened the study door, he saw Brian staring out the window at the fruit orchard. He knew that meant Brian was upset and thinking about what he needed to do. Jennifer and Granny sat in chairs. Justin smiled over at his partner who walked across the room and together they sat on the couch facing the two women.

Brian looked directly at Granny.

"Mrs Endicott…"

Granny attempted to interrupt Brian, but he held up his hand to silence her.

"Mrs Endicott, I am not sure where you got the idea that Justin and I are not capable of financially supporting out family. I can assure you that is a mistaken idea. We do not need or want you to play lady bountiful to us. We have discussed the educational needs of my nephews and planned on how we would meet those needs.

I respectfully suggest you find someone who needs your financial largess. We do NOT need your money. Justin and I are more than capable of supporting our family."

Granny sat back in her chair. Jennifer turned to her.

"Mama you know that Kate would be furious if you gave all this money to my family. Her feelings would also be hurt that you would give away this amount of money without consulting her.

It's kind and generous of you but as Brian explained it is not necessary."

Granny ignored her daughter and directed her full attention to Brian.

"Brian, I can see that I have insulted and hurt you. That was certainly not my intent. I admire you so much for being so secure and proud of who you are. I know you are a successful businessman who built your business from nothing to what it is today. I am thrilled that you and Justin have built such a strong partnership. I have never seen my grandson as happy as he is now and I am grateful to you for making that happen.

I love my grandson very much. I have always been so proud of his talent but to be honest I worried about him. I knew he was gay before he announced it. I never cared about that. However what I worried about was that like many artistic people he did not seem to have the skills required to deal with real life.

I had visions of my cherished grandson not have the financial sense that would allow him to develop his talent. I didn't really imagine him starving in some unheated attic studio. I did think perhaps his father would coerce him into working with him and Justin's art would become a sideline or a hobby. I know Justin would not be happy with that life.

Brian, you are the answer to my prayers! I know from Justin, Jenny and Molly that you have always supported and encouraged his talent. You paid for his artistic education when his unlamented father shirked his responsibilities. I didn't think that Justin would be worried about future education costs, he would trust you to handle that issue. I honestly meant my gifts to lift a burden from your shoulders.

In the last year you have had so much responsibility thrust upon you. In my, apparently clumsy way, I wanted to allow you to enjoy all the joy of the children you are responsible for and not worry as much about how to pay for it all. My dear boy, I never meant to insult you or cause you unhappiness.

Please forgive me."

Jennifer and Justin were stunned. Never in their experience had they seen Granny so contrite. Justin worried how Brian would respond, he wouldn't know the concession Granny was making.

Brian leaned over and kissed Justin on the cheek. He knew his Sunshine was nervous about how he would reply.

"Well Granny, it appears I have misjudged you. I can tell by the facial expressions of my partner and Mother Taylor that they are surprised by your apology. I have been led to believe that you never back down.

Perhaps I misjudged your intentions. I do not have a lot of experience with family relationships. When someone who is a virtual stranger offers me a great deal of money, I immediately believe they want something from me, or they are trying to control me.

I know that Justin loves you and treasures all his memories of you. I watch Gus with his Grandmom Jen. He clearly adores her and firmly believes everything she does is perfect. To be honest those memories and behaviors, to me, are like watching a movie in a language I don't understand and there are no subtitles. I have no grandparent experience of my own to draw upon. Contributions to the education trust funds will indeed relieve some pressure.

I will give Ted the task of finding out what we need you to sign. Meanwhile I'll just say thanks."

Granny stood up and came over to Brian who stood up. She put her arms around him and gave him a firm hug.

"It may be a little late in life, but I am going to do my best to give you a taste of a grandmother experience."

Both Brian and Granny laughed.

She whispered in his ear. "Just try and fucking meet me halfway."

Brian laughed louder and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

He was rewarded with a sunshine smile from Justin.

QAF-QAF-QAF-QAF

The next morning at Kinnetik Ted was reviewing the quarterly billings when his phone rang. The receptionist let him know that Melanie Marcus was here to see him, but she had no appointment.

Ted groaned in his mind but out loud he said to send her up. He wondered if Mel checked on Michael's schedule or if it was coincidence that he was on a later shift today.

A short time later Mel came thru the door of the accounting area. Ted got up and went to his office door.

"Hello Mel, come in, have a seat."

"I guess you are surprised to see me."

Ted shrugged.

"Yes."

"I'm sorry to bother you at work. I'm sure you know about Gus's new custody agreement."

Ted nodded.

"Well that has created a couple issues for me. I know there has been some estrangement between us recently, but we have been friends for a long time.

The thing is Linds is really still not well. She is going to therapy and does take medication but it a long road to recovery. I realize I was leaning too heavily on Gus to look after JR. Now that Gus won't be with us much that leaves Linds as the only option to supervise JR.

On top of that without Gus's support from Brian, out finances are tighter. I wondered who was looking after Nina this summer. I was hoping maybe JR could hang out with her."

Ted could hardly believe Mel came here with a request, no apology for her behavior just wanting help. He couldn't help feeling some concern and sympathy for her situation, but he tamped that down.

"Nina goes to Viola's apartment on Mondays and Wednesdays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, she goes to a daycare at Fort Pitt School, they do some cognitive exercises with her. I have been working from home."

"Do you think that Viola would be willing to take JR on Mondays and Wednesday. I would be willing to pay her something."

Ted shook his head.

"Viola isn't a well woman. Those days are one on one time for her and Nina. Nina is quiet girl; she knows to obey her Nana. They are used to each other. I don't think Viola is up to minding JR."

"What about Fridays at your house?"

"I don't think so. I do work on Fridays and sometimes have conference calls. Nina stays in the office and quietly reads or plays games. Again, that is one on one time for Nina and me."

Mel let a short bitter laugh.

"You once told me that I never ask for help and that is why I felt overwhelmed. Now I ask for help, but it seems none is forthcoming."

"Fuck you Mel! I did give you that advice, which you ignored. Now you want to use that advice against me. Why me? JR has a father, have you spoken with him? JR has a grandmother, have you approached her about childcare? I am betting no, you have not. I don't owe you anything Mel.

You have never invited Nina for a playdate with JR. The last time I took JR for an outing, you accused me of using it as some kind of spying mission for Brian. Now you come here and expect me to find ways to help you. Let's be frank, JR is a willful little girl and you have done little to curb that behavior. It has been pointed out to you, but you ignore that advice as you seem to do with all advice offered to you."

Mel got up from her chair.

"You act like I didn't have to worry about Brian spying on me."

Ted smiled.

"Brian wouldn't ask a friend to spy for him. He went with a professional. Let's not overlook that he was smart to hire someone to watch your house. You took Gus out so he wouldn't be there when Jennifer came to pick him up for his scheduled visit with his fathers.

That's another piece of advice you ignored. Brian told you not to get on Jennifer's bad side. People accuse him of being afraid of her. I think he is just aware of what lengths Jennifer will go to when protecting the people she loves.

Quite frankly Mel, I feel no obligation or desire to help you. So goodbye."

Mel grabbed her briefcase and hurried to the elevator and out of the building.

QAF-QAF-QAF-QAF

Jennifer and Tucker spent the night in Washington. Jennifer insisted on helping her mother unpack and settle into the pool house. They also took another night of baby duty. Liam & Lily took it easier on their grandparents and allowed them some time to sleep.

When Jennifer came downstairs, she got herself a mug of coffee and went out to the pool house. She knocked on the door and her mother came over to unlock it.

"Mama, I want to talk with you. I had a text from Kate asking me about how you were doing after the plane ride. I thought that was a strange question."

"Come in and sit down. There is more to my trip than wanting to see Justin and the babies. Of course, I was anxious to see Liam and Lily. Your sister has been working on trying to get me declared incompetent."

Jennifer abruptly sat down.

"Mama what are you talking about?"

"I'll start at the beginning. My long-time lawyer retired last year. Since Kate was executrix of my estate, I thought it would simplify things if a I used a lawyer at the same firm that she uses. I was very clear I did not want any financial information shared with Kate or her attorney.

Somehow your sister has discovered my net worth. I suspect she was able to get her attorney to find out the amount. Recently there have been several guests for lunch and dinner. Guests that seemed quite interested in me. I thought their behavior odd and started eating in my rooms more often.

One of Kate's daughters, I don't want to tell you which one, told me the guests were actually doctors that Kate hired to evaluate me. She has apparently got wind of some contributions I have set up in my will. I think she doesn't like the idea of not getting more of my money."

Jennifer was unsure about what was going on with her mother and sister.

"Mama maybe Kate's daughter was joking. Why would she suddenly care about what you do to your money?"

"Because before I made the mistake of using the same law firm as Kate, she had no idea what I did with my money or how much my net worth is. She thinks my charitable contributions are something new. This is what I have done for years.

She has no chance of getting me declared incompetent, but I can longer live under her roof. I am going to make a new will and cut her out. I am also going to look for a place to live here in Pittsburgh. I will need your help with finding my new home."

Jennifer was stunned.

"You keep talking about what you are worth. What is the actual amount?"

Granny laughed.

"Currently I am worth just under a billion dollars. Of course, that is not all cash."

Jennifer's mouth dropped open and her mother continued to laugh.

"Do you need a glass of water dear?"

"No Mama; I need a stiff drink. This is all just a bit much to take in."

As shaken as she was, Jennifer couldn't help chuckling.

"Kate will be furious. You know she is going to tell the family this is my fault."

"Actually, I sent registered letters to all your siblings telling them what Kate has been doing and letting them know I am moving here to Pittsburgh. They will probably get them tomorrow. I suggest you be unavailable. I don't want any of them to know my actual net worth. I prefer you keep that number to yourself. You can tell Tucker if you feel that is necessary."

Jennifer shook her head.

"I won't tell anyone. I would like you to tell Brian and Justin everything you just told me except the dollar amount."

Granny agreed and a still slightly shaken Jennifer went in the house to get them.

Justin was furious with his Aunt Kate, who he never liked. He remembered overhearing her refer to him a "sissy pretending to be artistic" when he was in middle school. He minded the sissy label less than his aunt disparaging his talent.

Brian was amused by the entire situation. He suggested that Granny set up an appointment with whoever Larry Buchanan suggested was a good estate attorney. Granny agreed and they all went into the main house. Brian and Granny went to the study to set up the lawyer appointment. They also called Ted about Granny's contributions to the various trust funds.

Brian introduced her to Larry as Justin's grandmother. He was amused when Larry started out explaining things in simple language until Granny started to ask probing, knowledgeable questions. She winked at Brian as Larry backtracked when he realized he was not talking to some rich old lady who needed assistance.

Brian was impressed and amused by Granny. He liked that she took no prisoners and was looking forward to a front row seat to the family drama that was going to unfold.

QAF-QAF-QAF-QAF

Debbie spotted Melanie as soon as she came thru the diner door. It was late in the afternoon and the lunch rush was over. Debbie wasn't surprised to see her but did wonder exactly what Mel wanted.

Debbie went over to the booth Mel chose.

"Hi Mel. Haven't seen you in here for a while. What can I get you?"

Mel ordered a tuna sandwich and iced tea. When Deb returned with the order; Mel asked if she had time to sit for a minute. Debbie sat opposite Mel.

"So Mel. What's up?"

"I'm sure you know that Gus is living primarily with Brian and Justin. The thing is Lindsay is really not up to full-time parenting. Gus was able to supervise JR for short periods but now we don't have that option. Linds has to have some quiet time on her own.

She is still in therapy and still on medication. Of course, now without Gus's support we have to tighten our belts. I trying to look into some daycare options but haven't found anything yet."

Debbie smiled.

"I could watch her two days a week."

"That would be a big help. Thanks."

"Mel I told you before that people are willing to help if you just let them know."

Melanie grunted.

"Well no one told Ted. I asked if JR could share Nina's care and he turned me down."

Debbie shook her head.

"Why would Ted want to help you. You haven't been very nice to him lately. I'm JR grandmother but obviously your second choice. You are your own worst enemy. Tomorrow is my day off. I'll pick up JR around nine in the morning. Bye Mel."

Debbie went back to cleaning booths leaving Mel alone with her lunch.

When Mel finished lunch, she went back to the law office. Things at work had slightly improved. The increased time Mel was putting in there had brought some good results.

When Melanie got home, Lindsay was making dinner and JR was helping. Mel couldn't help noticing that her daughter's hair looked unkept. She gave Linds a kiss and looked down at JR with a smile.

"Sweetie, why don't you go get your brush. Your hair looks like a fright wig."

"No! I don't want my hair brushed. Mommy didn't make me brush it."

Lindsay just shrugged and Mel decided to let it go. JR was excited by the news that she would be spending some time with her grandmother.

Lindsay smiled gratefully at her wife. She was glad that she would have time in her studio while JR was with Debbie.

QAF-QAF-QAF-QAF

It was a quiet afternoon at the Taylor-Kinney household. Jennifer and Tucker had departed. Granny enjoyed spending time on the patio visiting with Justin. Brian spent time with Gus in the pool. John and Peter also enjoyed the pool and for a while their backflip competition into the deep end provided entertainment for everyone else.

When Cassie left for the day, she brought Liam and Lily outside under the awning. Granny enjoyed watching her great grandchildren. She and Justin gave the babies bottles and she made Gus laugh hysterically when she said she remembered giving Justin bottles when he was a baby.

Gus was tired after his afternoon in the pool and came over to Justin's chair. While chatting with Granny Justin reached down and lifted Gus in his lap. He put his arm around Gus who snuggled against his Papa and fell asleep.

Granny couldn't help smiling as Justin never interrupted their conversation. Justin & Gus's interaction was so natural. She couldn't help thinking that Brian meant fun to Gus and Justin meant comfort.

Dinner was served on the patio. It was Gus's favorite spaghetti and meatballs. Gus loved to eat in his bathing suit out on the patio. To Gus that meant he could be a s sloppy as he wanted. He sat completely happy with tomato sauce dripped down on his bare chest & stomach.

Brian did his best not to look at his son. Justin leaned against his partner in sympathy but Gus's gusto when eating spaghetti amused him almost as much as his Daddy's horrified reaction. He knew that Gus's time as a sloppy eater was probably coming to an end. He consoled himself with the thought that Lily or Liam might take over the messy eating crown in a few years.

Granny was completely enjoying her day. She remembered Justin being almost as sloppy an eater as Gus but thought it was best not to mention that to Brian. Before dessert John went in the house and got some damp paper towels. He brought them outside and cleaned up his little cousin. Gus and Brian both thanked him.

Dessert was Alice's chocolate cake with butter cream icing. Granny noticed that Brian did not have a piece of cake, but he did have several bites of Justin's extra-large slice. As John cleared the table he whispered in Granny's ear. "Peter and I are amused by the uncles too,"

QAF-QAF-QAF-QAF

The next morning Debbie parked in front of Mel & Linds's house. JR had the door opened before Debbie got on the porch. She ran out to give her grandmother a hug and kiss.

Debbie was surprised that her granddaughter was still in her pajamas. Her hair was a mess. Lindsay was in the kitchen cleaning up from breakfast.

"HI Debbie. Time seems to have gotten away from me this morning. Sorry JR isn't ready. I'll get her dressed and ready to go."

Debbie smiled.

"Don't worry about it. JR will get what clothes she wants to wear, and we can just go to my house."

"Thanks for your help. I have some things I want to get done in my studio today."

Debbie nodded. She went upstairs with her granddaughter. Her bedroom looked like a bomb exploded. Clothes and her toy were everywhere. She found a shopping bag in the chaos and made a game with JR to see how many clothes they could each get in the bag.

Debbie decided she would just take the things to her house and wash them. JR picked a couple toys to take and Mr Rabbit. When they got downstairs Lindsay was already in her studio. Debbie called a goodbye and they left. JR thought it was a great adventure to be outside in her pajamas.

QAF-QAF-QAF-QAF

Justin spent the morning in the studio. He came down for some lunch just as the house phone rang. He answered and was amused to hear his Aunt Kate's voice.

"Is this Justin?"

"Yes Aunt Kate. How are you?"

"I need to speak to my Mother."

Justin rolled his eyes at Alice who was busy at the stove."

"I just came downstairs from my studio and I'm not sure where Granny is. I know she has her cell phone so you can call her on that number."

"I have called her mobile several times. She has not picked up, so I left her a message to call me back. You need to find her so I can speak with her."

Justin glanced out to the patio and say his grandmother playing cards with John, Peter and Gus. He suspected they were playing fish. At the moment they were all laughing.

"I don't need to do anything. Looks like Granny is involved in a card game with John, Peter and Gus. I'll let her know you called. When the game is over, she'll probably call you back."

"I want to talk to my Mother NOW. I have no idea who those people are. Just take her the phone."

"Granny is playing cards with my nephews and my son. I have no intention of interrupting their game as they seem to be enjoying themselves. I actually have no interest in what you want or need. Please don't call this number again. If Granny has any interest in talking to you, she will call you. Goodbye."

Alice chuckled. "Lunch will be ready soon. You can let the card players know."

Justin smiled as he went out on the patio.

Jennifer was in her office checking some listings for a client she was working with. Her cell phone rang and she saw "Kate" some up in the display.

"Hi Kate."

"I need to speak with Mother. I have called her cell several times and I called your son's house. He was very rude to me and refused to put her on the phone. I have no idea what is going on there, but you need to get Justin to let me speak with Mother."

"Kate, Justin is not normally rude, but Mama has her own cell with her. If you called her I'm sure she will call back if she wants to talk to you."

Jennifer smiled just thinking about Justin's conversation with his Aunt.

"I am in my office which is nowhere near Brian and Justin's house. It is up to Mama to call you back if she wants to speak with you. I am guessing you got her letter, she told me she sent them."

"Jennifer! I want you to call Justin or go to his house and get Mother on the phone for me. I am not interested in whatever is going on there or where you are at the moment."

"Sister dear, people in hell want ice water but they aren't getting what they want, and neither are you."

Jennifer disconnected the call and set her phone to silent.

On the patio Granny's phone rang. She looked down and saw the fourth call from her daughter Kate. She did not answer.

Justin came out of the house and told his Grandmother that Aunt Kate wanted to talk to her. Granny held up the phone and said she knew that and didn't care. John let her know that you could block the phone numbers of people you didn't want to talk to.

Granny handed John her phone and asked him to block the number that just called her. Everyone laughed as John announced "Done" and handed Granny her phone. Gus wasn't sure what he was laughing at but went along with the rest of his family.

Brian emerged from the house to announce that lunch was ready. Gus was declared the winner of the card game and everyone went into the house for lunch.