The Gus Diaries

Part 43

The Meeting
 

Thinking back I don’t think the word ‘meeting’ will ever mean the same thing to me again. This week our family had two important meetings. Each one rendered different results and each one impacted our family in a different way. The best news of all was that with each meeting Jeff was always by my side (figuratively speaking), before, during and after (when ‘during’ was appropriate). I can understand why people sometimes spend their lives looking for a partner – they really come in handy.

The first meeting was a few days ago after I finished work at Red Cape Comics.

“Gus, you’re looking pretty spiffy today. Got a hot date with Jeff?”

I wasn’t sure Uncle Michael noticed me roll my eyes. “No, I’m meeting my mother at the diner.”

He stopped what he was doing and came over to the rack of comics I was dusting. “Whose idea was this? Yours or Lindsay’s?”

“It was by mutual agreement. I called her and we agreed to meet at the diner.”

He placed a hand on my shoulder, “I hope this works out for you Gus. I really do.”

“Thanks, Uncle Michael, I hope so too, although I really don’t know what to say or do. I guess I just wanted to see my mother and know that she still wanted to see me.”

“I can’t think of a better reason to get together.”

Sometimes Uncle Michael can babble, say too much or say something ridiculous, but this time he said just the right thing.

 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
 

After we closed the store I walked to the diner. It was a nice night so I took my time and also took a few deep breaths on the way to settle myself.

Shit! I was meeting my mother and you would have thought I was going to some sort of test that would make or break my high school career. Until now I didn’t realize just how nervous I was. It was good to know that Jeff was going to be working through the dinner shift and would be there. He told me he’d make sure to throw his jacket in the back booth so we’d have a table out of the traffic flow.

When I arrived I was glad to see that Mom was already there. At least she was interested enough in seeing me to arrive early. I was right on time.

I walked to the table and ventured to smile and there it was -- my Mom stood up, and although it wasn’t her best, she smiled at me too. For some it wouldn’t have been much but at that moment it was huge.

When I approached the booth she walked forward and pulled me into a soft hug and whispered in my ear, “I’ve missed you.”

“Me, too. That’s why I called.” We both sat on our respective sides of the booth.

Jeff came over to take our order. Knowing we wouldn’t have had much time to talk yet, he was sure to get our orders and just take off after greeting us both. Me with a smile and a hug and Mom with a nod and cordiality.

It was a little awkward once he left the table. “So Gus, how are you?”

“I’m doing okay. Dad and MJ took Jeff and me to New York City last weekend. We had an amazing time.”

“That’s wonderful. Did you get to see any art museums?”

“A couple. We made sure to go see MJ’s painting again at the MoMA. It’s so cool to go there with one of the featured artists.”

“I bet. Justin really is an artistic genius. He was already showing signs of the extent of his natural gift when I first met him. In fact, I was the organizer of his first showing.”

“No kidding?”

“No kidding. I saw his sketches and he actually drew one of me nursing you.”

“I know that one. I’ve seen it.”

“That’s right, of course you have. I offered him space at a GLC fundraiser and he donated about half a dozen of his best sketches to the show.”

“Cool.”

“One sold, if I recall. He was so proud -- and now he has a painting hanging in the MoMA.”

“It’s fucking incredible.” I looked at Mom, realizing I’d just thrown around a word she didn’t like hearing me use.

“It is pretty fucking incredible, isn’t it.” She smiled at me and somehow at that moment I knew we’d make our way back to finding some of the love that we’d been missing of late.

“Mom, why are you staying with your mother. Growing up I remember hearing what a narrow-minded, intolerant person she is.”

“I moved out.”

“You did. Why...and where did you go?”

“It didn’t take long to realize I was slowly being poisoned, or at the very least brainwashed, living with her. After all, I was losing the most important person in my life.”

“Mem?”

“No, honey, you.” Mom reached halfway across the table and placed her hand over mine.

“Mom, I still want to keep the legal shit just as it is.” I wasn’t going to be convinced to change something that was important to me. I needed to feel protected and in an honest and above board environment. I just wasn’t getting that with either of my mothers.

“I know. And I’m sorry that you feel that’s necessary, but I’m beginning to see why you made that move.” She lowered her head slightly and it was good to see remorse and an inkling of recognition.

“Mom, where are you living?”

“I actually found a nice little apartment between Mel’s place and Grandma Deb’s place. It looks like we have someone to take over the lease in the house we rented when we returned to Pittsburgh, so both Mel and I will be able to afford our own places.”

“That’s great. Can I see it one day?” I didn’t want to sound desperate but it was weird not knowing where my mother was living. It gave me a feeling of being sort of lost.

“Of course. How about I arrange for you and JR to have dinner with me one day next week? Do you think she’d like that?”

“Yeah Mom...and so would I.” I had a feeling that things were about to get a little awkward again when Jeff showed up with our meals. Perfect timing.

We continued to eat and made small talk about what she was working on getting for MJ’s gallery, and I told her about my plans for the Fall when I returned to school and Jeff’s offer to tutor me to prepare for the PSAT’s and SAT’s.

When we finished dinner there was another awkward moment.

“Gus, lambskin, do you think you’ll ever be able to...”

I cut her off before this line went too far, “I don’t know Mom. I just know I really want you in my life.”

“Well, I’ll take that for now.” She paused and looked like she was just going to leave and then she hugged me, closer and a bit tighter this time. Then she whispered, “I really am sorry. I know I hurt you and your father, and Justin.”

“Justin is my father, too.”

She nodded, realizing the impact of what I’d said. “I’ll try to make it up to you.”

I don’t think she realized that unless she had a time machine she really couldn’t make it up to me, but knowing she was trying, and wanted to, helped.

“Bye, Mom. See you next week.”

“I’ll call JR and Michael and work out a good date and then I’ll clear it with you and your fathers...oh, and Gus...I do love you.”

“Me too, Mom. That won’t change.” She smiled a half smile and left the diner.

Jeff came over as soon as the door closed behind her. “So are you okay.”

“I will be.” He silently held me and kissed my cheek until the cook started ringing the bell for Jeff to pick up his order as if it was an emergency to get the food on the table before it turned cold. It didn’t matter, all the food was for-shit at the diner anyway. The only reason to be there was the people.

 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
 

That night while Dad and MJ were driving me home, I shared my dinner experience with my Mom. I could tell that Dad was still in pain over all that had happened and he was fairly quiet.

“Dad, are you okay with me seeing Mom once in a while?”

MJ placed his hand gently on Dad’s arm across the console between them. “Sonny Boy, as long as you’re happy that’s what counts. I don’t think your mother and I will have quite as successful an outcome if we ever give our friendship a chance again.”

It was hard to hear that, but I appreciated his honesty, and that he respected me enough to think I could handle hearing that.

Then MJ turned slightly so he could see me in the back seat of the car. “Gus, tomorrow evening we’re having a meeting at Britin.”

“What kind of meeting?” I asked, although I was pretty sure I knew what this one was going to be about.

“I’ve invited Craig Taylor and his attorney out to the house. They’ll arrive shortly after dinner.”

“Is your lawyer coming too?”

“He’s been consulted, in detail. His presence won’t be necessary.” I wasn’t sure what that meant but I kept my questions to myself knowing the sensitivity of this issue.

Since I’d been privy to the letter and its aftermath, MJ seemed comfortable speaking candidly with me.

“Do you want me to stay with Jeff tomorrow night?”

“No, Gus. I’d like you to be home. You shouldn’t be with us, but you don’t have to be banished to your room. I just want you to realize what will be happening.”

“MJ?”

“Yes, Gus.”

“Have you decided what you’re going to do about Mr. Taylor’s request?”

“Yes.” Then MJ turned around and faced front slowly.

I knew the conversation was over for now. He’d given me fair warning but also made it clear that we don’t hide from difficult situations and confrontations.

“MJ?”

“Yes.”

“Why’s he coming to the house rather than you all meeting in some lawyer’s office?”

Dad spoke, “Because both of your fathers know that when you’re in your own safe territory you’re in control of the situation and we both wanted Justin in the driver’s seat, so to speak.”

“I understand.”

“Isn’t that why you asked to meet your mother at the diner?”

“Yeah, I guess it was. But it just sort of happened that way.”

“You have good instincts Sonny Boy.”

“Thank you, I think I get it now.” I sat back in my seat and smiled, knowing that I was being treated like an adult, and enjoying it.

 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
 

The next day at precisely 8:30 PM the doorbell rang. I stayed in the front room and watched as Dad let in two men.

“Craig, not always a pleasure, but welcome to our home.” Dad shook Craig Taylor’s hand. He was taller than Justin but they clearly had the same coloring.

“I’m not sure why you insisted on meeting here but since I’d like to expedite this whole business any port in a storm.”

“It’s good to know you’re still practical, even at your advanced age.” Then Dad looked beyond the two, out the front door which was still opened. “Nice car, Craig. Get in any accidents lately? Wouldn’t want to damage that front end, would you?”

Mr. Taylor glared at Dad. I wasn’t sure what that was all about, but there was definite recognition written all over both their faces.

“Brian, this is my attorney, and good friend, James Patterson.” The second man extended his hand and Dad took it.

“It’s always good to have an attorney in your back pocket. Isn’t it?” Dad’s smirk was not filled with humor and it almost seemed threatening. Mr. Taylor returned a foul look on his face.

“Let’s get this over with.”

“My sentiments exactly. Right this way to the dining room.” Dad brought both men to the dining room where MJ was waiting at the table.

I decided to move to the media room because I felt that I needed to hear how MJ was going to handle his father. I still couldn’t believe this asshole wouldn’t want MJ in his life. Who throws away their kid, especially when he’s such a great person?

“Please be seated, gentlemen. As you can see, my husband has set out a pitcher of ice water or fresh guava juice but if you’d like something stronger I’m sure I can be of some assistance.” Dad’s polite words were delivered with such a strong hint of venom that there was no mistaking what he probably wanted to really say...‘Would you like your arsenic straight up or with a mixer?’

I noted that MJ was still quiet. He’d said nothing and I wasn’t sure when he’d participate in this whole fiasco.

“Justin, you’re looking well. And from the looks of it you must be doing well financially.”

“I am.” The cold nature of MJ’s response was almost shocking. This was not an MJ I was used to hearing.

“Your mother says that you had another surgery to help your hand continue to function well. That it was a complication from when you were injured at the end of your senior year in high school.” Even I know that’s glossing over what happened. How much denial was this asshole really in about his own son?

“I did undergo successful brain surgery to remove blood vessels that were damaged when I was bashed after my prom by a homophobic maniac.” There was a pause before MJ continued, “Now, unless we want to waste time with ludicrous pleasantries that have no value I say we get down to business.”

“My goodness, Justin, your father told me you were an artist, not a businessman.”

“Well, Mr...”

“Patterson. James Patterson.”

“Well, Jim,” MJ’s venomous tone was even harsher than Dad’s, “Most profitable endeavors involve having an element of business acumen. I’ve learned quite a bit over the years with the help of an excellent agent and a brilliant husband.”

“I see.”

“Justin, did you and Brian actually...”

“Why yes Craig, didn’t you get your wedding invitation? Oh, that’s right, we didn’t waste the cost of the postage, knowing the response we’d get.” Wow, talk about bitter, although I sure as hell don’t blame MJ.

Dad intervened before things got too ugly to be manageable. “Gentlemen, let’s get our business completed.”

“That’s an excellent idea,” the attorney chimed in. I’m sure he was relieved to get things back in the right direction. “I’ve drawn up these papers, I’m sure you’ll find them in order and quite clear-cut. They simply state that Justin willingly and without any undo pressure, relinquishes his shares of Taylor Electronics, and turns them back over to his father.”

There was silence for a few minutes as I’m guessing Dad and MJ were reading the papers. I have to admit that I was shocked that MJ was going to do this, but I guess this would guarantee that he wouldn’t ever have to deal with his father again. Still, I was kind of disappointed.

MJ finally spoke up, “Jim, I’m sorry you wasted your time. I’ve been doing a little investigating into the policies that TE has, especially regarding the non-profit organizations that it supports. I find them quite inappropriate for a business that wants to stay alive and current.”

“Justin, what the hell are you talking about.”

“Craig, quiet. If you want to gain anything, let me handle this.”

“No Jim, this is bullshit. What the fuck do you and Kinney want?”

“Actually, Craig, don’t worry, I won’t call you ‘Dad’ at any stockholders meetings. I’ve been doing some research, with the help of my business advisors.”

“You mean Kinney’s advisors.”

“As husbands we do share some of our business and accounting advisors.” MJ paused to get his point across and it certainly added to the impact of his words. “You see, Craig, I discovered that Granddad must have had an ulterior motive with his will. He obviously wanted to make sure his interests were cared for properly.”

“Justin, what the fuck are you talking about.”

“Now, now, Craig, no need to speak rudely to my brilliant husband.” Dad was really laying it on thick at that point.

Mr. Patterson interjected, “What are you proposing Justin?” He saw the writing on the wall and even with my limited knowledge I could tell MJ was about to go for the kill.

MJ finally continued, “You see gentlemen, I discovered that my grandfather left me 25% AND he left my sister 25% AND he left my mother 5% of Taylor Electronics.” Holy shit!

“Unlike you, Craig, we all stay in very close touch and all care very deeply about each other. They agree that the policies you’ve laid out for the company are totally unacceptable. I believe that you’ll find that while we fully intend to keep you as the head of the company, because we wouldn’t want to burden anyone else with that bullshit position, the next stockholders meeting will include some significant policy changes.”

“You fucking little...”

“Ah, ah, ah, Craig, temper, temper...now sit your ass back down in that chair and listen.” Dad was on a roll too. I definitely never want to get on the bad side of either of my fathers.

“Your 35% of the company will not stand up at the next meeting. So you can go in, smile, and accept the changes that have been long overdue, or you can risk replacement...Brian, have you thought about being the CEO of yet another company?” Now MJ was just baiting Craig, but I couldn’t help silently cheering.

“You god damned little faggot.”

“That’s me Craig. Your god-damned little faggot -- by birth -- and fucking proud of it. Now if you and your lawyer will please leave my estate, I’m sure Brian will be happy to show you out.

“I have important matters to address. I’m in the midst of painting another piece of artwork that may show up next to my previous work at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City...you’ve heard of that little place, haven’t you?”

Aim, shoot, score!

Dad showed a very angry man and his attorney out the door. I went into the dining room and saw MJ with his head down on the table.

He looked up. But rather than looking celebratory he looked exhausted.

“MJ, are you okay?”

“No, Gus, but I will be. I just need to draw some strength from my art...”

“And your husband, too, I hope.” Dad came up behind MJ and held him protectively in his arms.

MJ turned around and leaned into Dad’s chest. “I always draw strength from you. Thank you for standing by me through all of this.”

“There’s no other place I’d rather be.”

The two of them left the room, left the glasses and the pitchers of water and juice on the table and didn’t even say goodnight to me -- just how it should be tonight.

 

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