A/N: This is the FINAL chapter of this story. Notes at the end. Thanks for reading!

Chapter 25

Three Months Later…

Salvatore, along with Brian and Justin walked into the meeting room inside of Salvatore's Pittsburgh home, each man's eyes savaging the invited guests… each of them knowing a traitor was about to be made an example of, a man accepting his position to his full rise to power, and another completing his final test. Each man stood to his feet to greet their collective bosses, none of them familiar with the youngest man of the group.

"Have a seat… Gentlemen," Salvatore sneered, his eyes scathing as they slid over each man, his lips compressed into a tight line as they settled finally on his brother. "I believe you are aware of why I called this meeting." His tone indicated no response was required… as well as being completely out of order. These men knew the protocol. Do not speak until Don Caletti directed you to do so. Violating that code of honor and protocol could be deadly in certain circumstances. This was one of those times.

Justin remained silent, taking a position not far from the man that he knew would be his victim within moments. This hit was to be his final test. He had passed every challenge Salvatore and Brian had thrown his way. They had praised him at every turn. The respect and admiration of these two dangerous, yet incredible men, filled him with more pride in himself and his accomplishments than he could ever explain. He was ready to assume Brian's former role in the Caletti organization. His decorum and handling of this job in the presence of these men would officially name him as Brian's successor. He intended to not only make Salvatore and Brian proud, but instill fear in the hearts of these men as well. A fear that would be spread like wildfire throughout the underground, in a way, cementing his own legacy.

Brian's face was a cold mask as he took in the expressions of each man present. These were the men that he would deal with on a regular basis, essentially the leaders of each branch of the Caletti empire - all of them knowing they could be replaced in an instant. In that knowledge accepting such removal was never amicable, but done so with an irrevocable finality. His eyes followed his father's progression around the room, watching as he methodically circled the occupants, suddenly finding himself saddened that this could be the last time he watched the formidable Salvatore Caletti conducting what they referred to as a 'resolution' meeting. Within moments, his father would be turning everything over to him. One man was going to die; however, depending on the responses of the others, there could be additional deaths.

"In a moment I will turn this meeting over to the new leader of the Caletti family." A brief smile touched Salvatore's lips, and only when his eyes connected with his much deserving son. He was going to be brilliant in his stead. During the past three months, Brian had absorbed an unbelievable amount of knowledge and even more experience. In fact, the same could be said for Justin as well. Should Justin carry out the disposal of their traitor and enemy as effortlessly and skillfully as he believed he would, there wouldn't be a doubt in his mind that Justin would fully assume Brian's former role. The circle would be complete. His eyes moved around the table again. "To those of you that have not formally met my son, and successor, I daresay he needs no true introduction. His experience speaks for itself…"

"Tut tut, Sal." Tobias foolishly cut in. "We just found out that the assassin you groomed was your son. How do we know he is up to this much larger task?"

His teeth biting into his bottom lip, Justin barely silenced the gasp that threatened to escape. Was Salvatore's brother a complete idiot? As his eyes met the warning glint in Brian's eyes, he realized he had made a slight sound, one that wasn't acceptable in the context of this meeting. He knew he couldn't mouth an apology; instead, he simply looked away, and back at Salvatore that was still the Boss in all of their eyes.

Salvatore's eyes glittered dangerously. "Imbecile…" he hissed beneath his breath. "You never learn, but you will, brother. You most certainly will." Tension became even thicker in the room, eyes darting from Tobias' suddenly shrinking form, to the master of the Calettii organization. "I challenge anyone in the room to question me regarding Brian's qualifications. I will accept nothing other than a smooth transition. Anyone who causes a disruption in that will face severe consequences. Now… does anyone have anything to say about my decision?"

Silence prevailed in the room, even Tobias was wise enough to remain silent, and keep his eyes trained on the far wall... even if animosity was clearly discerned in his gaze. Giving them only a fraction of a moment to respond, Salvatore continued on, "Brian has a detailed report regarding every territory, and the responsibilities each leader has to maintain. He is fully informed and ready to take charge. Now… I am going to take a seat, and my son will conclude this meeting. I expect you to give him the respect that has always been extended to me." He cast a scathing look in his brother's direction. "Disloyalty and disrespect are unforgivable. Any that have sought to do either, will meet with a brutal end."

Brian coldly looked around the table, knowing this was his moment to make an indelible impression. He excelled at doing so, and this moment in time would be no different. He cast a pointed look in Justin's direction, with a nod of his head alerting him to move into position. "I am not going to waste anyone's time with introductions and a resume of what I bring to the table. It doesn't matter. My father's decision is absolute. This meeting has twin purposes. One, to formally address the changes, ones that won't affect most of you, unless I see the need to make adjustments." His eyes touched on each man in the room, gratified by the attentiveness of each man… all but one. A sinister look entered his eyes. An enemy that would soon be eliminated. In actuality, this betrayal couldn't be more well timed - if such an instance had to occur. Making an example in the presence of these men would instill even more loyalty and fear. He would build on that. "And lastly… to deal with the betrayal of an enemy, a man poisoned with jealousy that sought to kill the true heir to the Caletti organization."

If possible, a more chilling silence instantly permeated the room. Death was imminent, and they were all aware of it. None more than the offender, Tobias Caletti. At once, the pleas began, once the betrayal had been revealed, none of them naive as to the course of the resolution. "S-Sal… please. I - I didn't mean any harm to you, or the organization. I - I just…"

"Just thought you should be my successor when you have done nothing to contribute to my success?" Salvatore sneered. "For more years than I should have allowed have seen the men that should be your underlings, covering for your mistakes and ineptitude. You have consistently cost me time and money. I had always overlooked that; however, you attempting to place a hit on my son changed everything." Salvatore shook his head at his brother's continued stupidity. "How could you possibly think word wouldn't get out that you were seeking to rub out Brian? For fuck's sake, Tobias. Not only my son… but the 'Surgeon'. Your idiocy has no end!"

Brian looked back and forth between his father, and the enemy that was of his blood. His lips compressed into a tight and forbidding line. He wouldn't allow this encounter to linger on. The longer it lasted, the more stressful it would be for his father. That was something he wouldn't sanction. With a harsh clearing of his throat, Brian rasped, "Justin…"

Nodding, Justin silently pulled his gloves from his pocket, sliding them on slowly, his eyes icily surveying Salvatore's younger brother. Without speaking a word, Justin pulled out his gun, quickly firing the weapon and connecting multiple shots into the middle of Tobias Caletti's chest. All eyes pulled to the sight of Tobias' slumping forward onto the table, death and justice rendered in an instant. Justin lifted his eyes to look into Brian's eyes, not the least bit surprised to find lust warring with approval in them. Brian seemed to be immensely turned on when he watched his successor completing an assignment. He was practically certain how this meeting would end… and he couldn't wait for it.

Forcing himself to look away from the beautiful blond, the man that was his in every way now, Brian savaged his eyes over the fear stricken men… all men that were dangerous and powerful in their own right, but ones that more than knew the score. "Any other questions regarding my abilities to lead the family?" He eyed each one fiercely, satisfied as each man shook their head, all of them knowing the Caletti family to be in the best of hands. "Get the fuck out. I will be in touch."

As each man stood to their feet, and all but ran for the door, Salvatore's voice was as cutting as precision razors when he spoke, "Keep this little reminder in mind, Gentlemen. I may have turned the family over to my son, but I have not closed my mind or attention away from all that pertains to family business. Anyone that either threatens either the Caletti organization or my son, faces the most extreme of consequences… as you have so witnessed today."

Salvatore laughed as the men nodded and took flight from the room, almost as if they felt the hounds of hell were nipping at their heels. He shook his head in disgust. "Such leaders. They fail miserably at hiding their fear."

Brian snorted derisively. "Surprised they didn't piss their pants."

Justin laughed, before looking seriously at his new boss, and not the man formerly in charge. "Shall we contact the cleaners?"

"I already did that before we arrived." Brian's eyes moved over Justin, still finding his blood racing as he remembered watching Justin in action. His final test and one he had handled with great finesse. "You did good, Justin. In fact, you were amazing. I believe you are ready for any challenge that comes your way."

"My son is right, Justin. I have always thought you had such promise in you, even when you were a scared kid that I set out to mold into the very image of skilled perfection. These past months, the time Brian has taken in enhancing your training is clear to see. You've come so far in such a short amount of time. Our strength will never be questioned. Nor will our power." He looked Justin deep in the eye. "The impact you make is immense. Don't ever forget that."

Justin was slightly taken aback. He blinked slowly, forcing himself to keep his emotions hidden. After all, the assassin for the Caletti family does not cry. He couldn't. It was unthinkable. However, his heart was swelling with respect, pride, and untold emotion for both of these rare and special men. A lump developed in his throat, before he answered, "Thank you, Sir. Your confidence in me is everything. I promise not to let you down." Justin looked at Brian, his heart nearly constricting when he viewed the same emotion of trust and respect in the beautiful, yet often chilling hazel eyes. "I mean both of you. I am deeply honored that you place such value on my contribution, and it will be my sole ambition to excel in it."

In a greater state of relaxation now that the others were gone, and Tobias effectively handled, Brian moved his eyes hungrily over his hired gun, undeterred by the fact of his father still being present. His father knew him better than just about anyone. He would know how his passions inflamed after a kill such as this… and being administered by Justin only seemed to make the act even more erotic for him. "I hope not your sole ambition…"

Justin flushed, slightly embarrassed with Salvatore still in the room, yet not enough so to place a halt on the teasing banter. "Perhaps I can think of few more tasks… Boss."

"I'm glad to hear that, Taylor…" Brian rasped. "I think it's time for one of our private sessions-"

Salvatore wasn't about to reprimand either of them. For most of the past three months, he had been a constant by their sides; in training Brian and supervising Brian's tutelage of Justin, he had already observed that they had done reasonably well in separating business from pleasure. The only lapses were when they were secluded enough to do so. Each of them had gained a larger degree of self control. That had only served to make them a more powerful force. He could see nothing short of a positive future for all of them. "I will handle the cleaners. You two can get out of here." He smiled knowingly at his son. "I'm sure you would like to rest… and perhaps pack for your trip back to the islands tomorrow."

Brian nodded, his lips rolling under as a different kind of emotion suddenly hit him. It was time to express them, whether he had ever thought it would be something that would come from him. Clearing his throat, Brian spoke to Justin, while his eyes remained on his father. "Justin, wait for me outside. I need a moment with my father."

Slightly curious, yet not about to question it, Justin responded, "Of course. Take all the time you need."

Silent until the door closed behind Justin's retreating form, Brian looked at his father in concern. "I realize what happened here today was necessary on many levels. Keeping face in our world is vital to survival; however, your brother was just taken out. If there is anything you need, even if it's just to talk, I am always here for you."

Salvatore moved closer, his eyes full of love for his son. It was more than that, though. He held a genuine respect and deep admiration for the man he had become. "I appreciate that, son… but I am fine. Tobias stopped being my brother years ago. His planned actions against you made him dead to me."

Brian nodded, not the least bit surprised by his father's words. Uncertainty in his every step, unsure of how he was going to innately feel by such an emotional display, Brian threw caution to the wind, and did something he thought he would never do… he reached out and embraced his father. At the sound of his father's gasp, and his arms moving to enclose around him, Brian knew he had made the right choice. They both needed this, and it was time.

Unsure of how long they had stood locked against each other, Salvatore pulled back first, tears rolling down his older cheeks. "I love you, son; I couldn't be more proud of you."

Taking a step back, his own eyes filled with unshed tears, Brian admitted, "I love you too, Father. I always have, even when I didn't know you were my father."

"The future is ours, Brian… and you have a man by your side that will contribute enormously to your dreams. Don't be afraid to let him see this side of you, son… at least in private. Justin has an unshakable loyalty, and I sense very deep feelings for you."

"I am not a man that has ever sought attachments. They speak of abject vulnerability, and that has always been a dangerous commodity for me. However, if I ever decided to open that door, I can think of no one other than Justin." He met his father's eyes, saying without truly speaking the words that such a door had already been opened. "I'll be in touch soon, Sir. If you need anything, or just want to become more active again, just let me know."

"I'll do that, son… but I don't expect to do so. I am at complete peace with how everything has worked out. You are the future of the Caletti family. I will be behind the scenes supporting you, and offering any guidance should you need it… but this is your playing field now. I know only great things will be the result." Salvatore watched as his son left, his heart swelling with pride and love. Brian had truly evolved from the cold-hearted Surgeon he had once been. He knew Justin had played a part in that development; although, he realized the bond that they had always shared over the years, that was more readily understood with the revelation of Brian's true parentage was a contributing factor as well. There wasn't a doubt in his mind… the circle was now complete.

Brian's hands slid over Justin's sweat drenched chest, his fingers tweaking savagely at the distended nipples, his cock hammering into the tightness that always seemed to act as a glove that was designed only to fit his hand, in this instance... his ravaging cock. Justin always felt so good around his dick. He would never tire of fucking him. Whether it was something he felt was safe or practical in his world, Justin had invoked more tender emotions in him. He couldn't foresee a time he would ever let him go. They were suited in every way. The more he had of him, the more he wanted.

Justin panted as Brian implemented deep, measured strokes, the driving force in conjunction with Brian touching, licking, and biting every expanse of exposed skin, nearly driving him over the edge. In every touch, Brian displayed his dominance… his need, a desire that he knew couldn't be slaked by another man. That turned him on most of all. He didn't need words of commitment, at least, not right now. They were meant to be together. It almost felt like destiny. They were the perfect fit in every way. He had the feeling their connection would only increase over time.

Sliding his hands down to clasp at Justin's hips, Brian thrust more fiercely, his cock pounding into Justin now, repeatedly jabbing at the sensitive prostate that would soon result in sending Justin over the edge. He fucking loved it when Justin released. The abandon and submission he exhibited in bed was the most arousing of combinations. His want for this man had been a fever in him from day one. It only grew stronger every time they explored it. Whether he was prepared to speak the words or not, this man was the only man he wanted. He couldn't say how long that would last, but at this point, it wasn't something he could see as changing. "Let go, Justin. Come for me. NOW…" Brian growled as he began to pound Justin into the bed, the blond's arching back and gasps telling him he was as close as he was himself.

"Y-yes, Brian. I - I am. Fuck. You feel so good inside of me… marking me, t-taking me-" Justin knew he was babbling, but he was lost in a desire he couldn't control, one that he didn't want to control. "Ahhhh…" Justin continued to moan, his hips arching back into Brian's, panting breaths tumbling from both of them as they reached for that sweet bliss that compared to nothing else.

Brian flopped onto his back, his chest still heaving from the the exertion and the aftermath that only seemed to get hotter every time. "Fuck. You wear me out, kid."

Justin beamed, rolling onto his side to face his lover/boss. "Are you admitting that I wear you out, Mr. Kinney?"

Brian glared at the audacious blond, smacking him soundly on the ass. "Watch it, Junior. Remember who I am."

Snorting, Justin countered, "As if you ever let me forget!"

"Just one of my many charms," Brian obliquely replied. Rolling onto his side, he looked at Justin with a slight question in his eyes. "A few days ago, Salvatore had mentioned he'd like for you to move in with me. His reasoning is that he has always had Ben with him, and that even though I can protect myself, he would feel more secure having you with me. It's not something I would insist on… but if you are willing, I can see the advantages."

"You mean at your new home in the Virgin Islands?" Justin asked, waiting until Brian gave an affirming nod. "I can't argue that logic. I really did want to stay on the islands." Justin's eyes lingered on Brian's perfect lips, his tongue stretching out to moisten his own. "I can think of far worse things than being near you... day and night."

"Okay then. We'll move in that direction when we get back home. And yes, the Virgin Islands has become home to me too." Brian smiled before smothering Justin's lips beneath his own, to himself accepting that this man had become home to him as well. He knew his attachment to both his father and Justin made him vulnerable, but he had decided they were both worth the risk. Justin thought he was Brian's source of protection, but in his mind, it was a two-way deal. He would torture and totally eviscerate anyone that threatened either his father or Justin. Life had changed so much for all of them, him especially, but at his core, he was still the Surgeon. It had been the beginning of his legacy, a power that was now complete, made even more so by this skilled and special man devoted to him, now to be forever by his side.

END

A/N: This ends the journey here. Hopefully, a more sappy ending wasn't expected. In keeping with the premise of this story, I just didn't feel it could be. Brian evolved a great deal here… but 'ridiculously romantic' just doesn't apply well here. And, this brings me to my hiatus. Although, I realize my crossover story for QAF/The Walking Dead still hangs out there, I had placed that on its own hiatus long ago. My muse is struggling with how to proceed with that one. There are so many variables of what could be included in that world. So much canon in TWD that it's difficult to decide which paths/characters I want to utilize, and where to go next. I will think about that during my break, as well as be working on 'The Client' which I have already teased.

I want to thank everyone that has provided me with support over the years. Each story I have written has been a labor of love for me, and every comment a treasured memory. At this point I can't say for certain how long this break will be, and even how many future stories I will write. I have committed myself to writing 'The Client', but whether there will be more remains to be seen. The support of the readers through feedback is a tremendous motivation for me, so in essence, you the reader have a large role in that decision.

Once again, thank you. I have made such wonderful friendships during these past six years I have been actively writing in the QAF fandom. Closing feedback is much appreciated. As always, thank you for reading.